LETTER: MARBLE HILL PAPER SCOTCHES WHIPPOORWILL LAKE RUMORS

To the editor:

Thanks goes to Jim McIntosh, editor of the Banner Press in Marble Hill (a sister publication of the Southeast Missourian). Mr. McIntosh had a column regarding the terrible rumors that have been going on about snakes attacking a young man who drowned at Whippoorwill Lake a few weeks past. It was absolutely untrue, and we thank Mr. McIntosh in trying to stop the rumors.

We also wish to thank all our customers who called, wrote or came by to give us their support, love and prayers. It has been a comfort to know how many people care about us here at Whippoorwill Lake and their many happy memories.

To those who started the rumors and those who continue spreading them, we feel sadness and resentment. You have caused added stress to the young man's family and to us. Our faithful customers have felt much irritation when hearing these untrue stories and have had to come to our defense.

One of our campers said he has seen more snakes in his back yard this year than he has seen here in the 20 years he has been camping here.

We built the lake and started the land development in 1968. After encouragement from the community, we opened it to the public in 1973. We have enjoyed the very nice people we have met through the years. Our purpose always has been to make this a fun and enjoyable place for people to come and an asset to the community.

Through the years there have been other untrue rumors and various tales floating around the countryside. Some people get enjoyment from gossiping, and if they can embellish the story to make it better, they will.

We have weathered other storms, and in time they pass as this will. Hopefully someone may read this and think about it. Maybe the next time they decide to repeat hearsay, they will stop and think how many people can be hurt.

BILL AND BARB ROTH

Whippoorwill Lake

Marble Hill