East Perry is a tolerant area

To the editor:

In response to Allen Gathman's remarks about intolerance issues at the Altenburg fair, I would challenge Gathman to look at all of the tolerance and goodwill around him when he goes to the East Perry Community Fair or anytime he might visit the Altenburg region. Working there on a daily basis, I consistently experience beautiful care and tolerance of the elderly, exceptional education and tolerance of children, as well as outstanding preservation and tolerance of cultural resources.

If the fair is Gathman's example of intolerance, he should know that many civic organizations, private foundations, business owners, politicians from all parties and private citizens work hard together to create an event that has free admission, free parking and free events in order to provide a fun environment for anyone who wishes to attend. All individuals, communities, states and nations have work to do regarding ethnic tolerance, but Gathman's blanket statements don't help this cause.

I invite Gathman to meet with me in Altenburg sometime for a cup of coffee and to talk about why he thinks one inappropriate joke makes an entire region intolerant.

CARLA JORDAN, Cape Girardeau