City represented at other Vet Day
By JEAN PACE

This is in response to Sam Ketchum's letter in last week's Newsboy. On Friday, Nov. 10, a memorial service was held on the campus of Jasper Junior High School (formerly Jasper High School). This service was a rededication of 18 markers honoring men who had attended Jasper High School and lost their lives during World War II.

Through the efforts of Dianne Pace, an elected city official, and others at the school, these markers were saved and replaced in a prominent place in front of the building. They were originally laid in 1946 in memory of these men. Some had been destroyed or buried but after about a year's efforts and help from David Schultz with Forest Oaks Funeral Home, they were all gathered and placed in a more prominent place of honor.

That service was also a very touching ceremony. It was attended by all students of the school. I don't know what Sam Ketchum looks like, but I'm almost positive he was not there.

Several city officials left their businesses on a workday to attend the service. Nov. 10 was a paid holiday for county employees, but I don't recall seeing an elected county official in attendance. It was publicized in the media, but they must have had more important things to do.

As the mother of Dianne Pace, I know that she has a standing obligation on the second Saturday of each month and as great a person as she is, she cannot be in two places at one time.

County officials make salaries and very good benefits; elected city officials do not. Some run businesses and work six days a week. Sam Ketchum, whoever he is, should be ashamed of himself for being a puppet for people who have an agenda to get rid of the current elected city council and the mayor by a small group of people who have their own personal agenda.

Any memorial done for the men and women who have fought for this country is very important. Those who made the ultimate sacrifice should be honored by all. They should never be used as some kind of political statement.