THE PUBLIC MIND: JUST HOW CONCERNED ARE WE IN CAPE?

To the Editor:

Last Monday was the day of the funeral of a two-year-old girl who was accidently killed on Lorimier Street by Indian Park. My heart is saddened by her family and also for the person who caused the accident. We know that accidents will happen, but we try to "prevent" before they happen.

Remember, the seat belt law was put in effect. There are walk signals at intersections, stop signs and yield signs placed at dangerous intersections. Slower speed zones were imposed at Capaha Park, Arena Park and other parks. What's the reason for not having slower speed zone signs by Indian Park? This park has been frequented by a large number of children and young people for a few years now, but there are no warning signs for motorists to "watch out" for people.

I live three blocks from Indian Park. On May 28, I walked four of my grandchildren to the park. Two of my granddaughters are two years old, one is three years old and one is four years old. We were at the park for about 30 minutes when one of them announced she needed to go to the bathroom. Having walked, I could put her in the car and rush her home, and by this time they all wanted the bathroom facility. There were others at the park, but with no other place to go, we found a tree to shield them from onlookers and there my four small granddaughters used the bathroom.

I am placing this article today, Cape Girardeau community, as a wake-up call. How concerned are we? It is time to wake up. The alarm has stopped ringing. Procrastination is over, excuses have run out.

A life is precious. When it's over, we cannot get it back ever. Let's at least try to protect our children. Remember the adage: An ounce of prevention is better than a pound of cure.

Leola Twiggs

Cape Girardeau