Letters to the Editor

To the Editor:

Last evening I attended the Fort Scott vs. Independence basketball game on the campus of Fort Scott Community College. I am very concerned about the conduct of the student atheletes (mainly baseball players) and the reponse given me when I talked to the athletic director. I will try to keep it short and to the point, but would like to fill you in on the situation. Several of our fans traveled a lengthy distance to support our team only to discover the baseball team sitting in the visitors' section of the facility.

When I asked the AD about the reasoning behind them sitting there, I was told that seating was very limited. I realize that this is a fact, but there were empty sections where these students could have sat, so our fans could enjoy the game and support the team. I was also, offended by a few of them with their chewing of tobacco and spitting, which I thought was not allowed since the campus is advertised as "tobacco free." I did point this out to the AD and he confirmed the fact that the campus was tobacco free. I pointed to the Copenhagen sitting on the bench along with the cup and bottles that had been used as the spittoon and ask why this practice was being allowed. He didn't have a response, just picked up the cup and bottles and walked away. The last thing I would like to mention is the lack of respect shown to your staff and security gaurds by students when they were asked to move back and stay off the court. As soon as they walked away, the students were back doing the same thing they were asked not to do. Are your staff and security afraid of your students?

Whether you agree with me or not makes no difference, but being able to express my concerns makes me proud of the ICC student body and the respect shown to staff and other participants at events.

Becky Duke

Independence, Kan.

To the Editor:

On behalf of The Salvation Army and those whom we serve, we would like to take this opportunity to say thank you to all your readers who helped make this another successful Christmas season.

As always, we are grateful to everyone who donated their time to bell ring throughout the holiday season, as well as the businesses that supported our Red Kettle Campaign. These volunteers and all who helped by filling the red kettles and mailing in contributions have made a huge impact on our efforts.

Because of the generosity throughout the community, our neighbors in need are receiving help not just at Christmastime, but throughout the year. Thank you for playing such an important role in the work of The Salvation Army where you live. We are grateful for the generosity of those who give their time and treasures so freely to help people throughout the community.

If you are interested in donating or volunteering during the coming the year, please call (800) 336-4547, ext. 368 for more information. You can also find out more information about The Salvation Army's service in this and other communities at www.salvationarmy.us.

May God Bless you!

Randall Summit

Service Extension Director

The Salvation Army Kansas and

Western Missouri