LETTERS: 1950S STUDENTS RECOGNIZED GIFTS FROM TAXPAYERS

To the editor:

Recently, I called upon people to help us re-establish our collection of Girardot yearbooks. Response was fantastic.

In light of Tuesday's vote, I wanted to share with everyone some quotes from two of the books. The first comes from the 1953 Girardot, which was the first yearbook published after the high school was moved to its current location.

"First it was a dream -- this new high school of ours -- seen in some far away nebulous cloud. Then the mists cleared and the picture became a reality, for the architects had captured it in blue print for all to see. Skilled workmen with the tools of their trade gave it life, and now it stands in all its glory -- a symbol of a city's growth and progress. We, the Girardot Staff of 1953, dedicate this book to the taxpayers of Cape Girardeau who are reaching down into their pockets to help make our dream come true."

The other quote comes from the 1955 book.

"With the completion of the gym and the auditorium, our dream of a modern new high school for the youth of Cape Girardeau is now fulfilled. The Board of Education, the citizens, the faculty, and the students are justly proud of this achievement. May New Central High School serve as a reminder to all of America's free system of education."

Even after almost 50 years, both quotes still say a lot. I hope that as citizens we can all see the value of a quality school system. I hope the 2002 staff can put a quote in the Girardot expressing the same sentiments.

STACY BUSCH

Girardot Yearbook Adviser

Central High School

Cape Girardeau