Thanks to newspaper staff

On Thursday, the Missourian online edition carried a story about the death of Nelson Mandela. That story prompted a flurry of comments from the lowest racists in our community. It was sad.

Very promptly, the Missourian moved that online story to an area where it could be accessed but further comments could not be made. Trampling on the First amendment rights of racists? I think not.

Say what you will about the editorial position of the Missourian (and I've said plenty from time to time) -- the folks who run the paper are not now and never have been racist. In any particular way.

For balance and decency, I say: Hurray for the Southeast Missourian!

JOHN L. COOK, Cape Girardeau