Speak Out 4/22/04

Kind words, right time

I HAD to go to the veterinary clinic to pick up the ashes of my beloved pet of 20 years. I did OK at first, but when the receptionist handed me my cat's ashes and her blanket, I just lost it. I could not hold back the tears as I left the office. I made it out to the car and sat down and lost it again. One of the sweetest women I have ever met must have seen my tears, because she soon appeared at my car. She shared kindness, hugs, empathy and a wonderful prayer with me. I did not think to get her name until I was on my way home. Ma'am, I just want you to know I will never ever forget what you did for me and your words still ring in my ears. You're an angel, and I hope you read this because I thank you with all of my heart.

Outstanding program

I WISH to thank Notre Dame Regional High School for such a nice program. It was just wonderful. The girls' chorus was beautiful, but the boys took the prize. They were very good, and I was so glad that so many of the students were included, which made it such a nice portion for everybody. The boys stole the show. God bless you all.

No more dues

I AM a member of the Southeast Missouri State University Booster Club, and I think it is political correctness to change the mascot. I am not going to renew my donations or dues with the booster club.

Feeling left out

IF THE Indian mascot is scraped, be prepared for many of the alumni to scrap the pleas for donations. I will not feel a part of the university anymore if the Indians are called Redbirds or whatever. Why is this change being pushed? Why not put it to a vote? There is no case made that the Indian population is in any way degraded.

Doing the time

I WAS 19 years old when World War II started. I went into the service. I was overseas 2 1/2 years. The war ended before I could come home. Anyone can do the time if you have to.

Show fair play

COME ON, Southeast Missourian. Show a little integrity and fair play. Show that you're upset with the conduct of state Rep. Rod Jetton and state Rep. Jason Crowell. You'd throw fits if Democrats were doing that.

Into the dustbin

I AM so pleased that Southeast Missouri State University is replacing the Indian as its mascot. The American Indian civilization has been obliterated. The average American can go for years without seeing or thinking about the real American Indian civilization. In fact, one must work to find the remnants either by visiting archaeological sites, watching documentaries or visiting the reservations. Even there the ways are much closer to those of the West than those to the pre-1492 Indians. In fact, the only time most Americans are reminded of this defeated civilization is by hearing the names of sports teams. Sports teams glorify the alleged good qualities of the American Indian. Actually, prior to 1492, they were Stone Age warring people. They practiced slavery. After 1492, they killed, tortured and raped our ancestors. We must eliminate this false memory of noble savages embodied in the names of sports teams and leave this civilization undisturbed where it belongs: in the dustbin of history.

Fabulous performance

BRAVO, BRAVO, bravo to Cynthia King and the entire cast and orchestra of "Crazy for You." It was fabulous and very professional.