Your Viewpoint
Letters to the Editor
Newsboy not fair to blacks

By STACIE WALLACE Jasper

First off, I would like to start this editorial piece by saying that, I have grown up with some of the finest people off all races, religion whatever. I also work for some of the finest people in the nation.

When I was in the 6th grade I was the only black child in a 1st year integrated white school. My point is I am not nor have I even been prejudice. I have strong feeling of dislike, when I discover or feel discriminated against.

Because I feel like I am equal to everyone where race is concerned. Jasper is world wide viewed as a racial town. We have desperately been trying to prove to the world that this is not us.

Everywhere I go I have to answer questions about Jasper and our past problems. I hold my head high and proud because I do not want our city to be labeled due to something that few people represent.

But how can we continue to heal and love our city when everytime you look up there is plain evidence that there are problems within our city.

Examples are our friendly little weekly paper, has a problem finding black children at special events, graduation etc. Three weeks in a row graduation, softball whatever.

The only time blacks were in the picture they are caught in the background, or stuck deep in the center of the paper. As large as the classes are you can't capture a photo to publish.

With only one black baseball player you couldn't catch him in a good photo. Sure you published some community events in the past.

But graduation etc. come once in your child's life.

Yet, not even a chance to catch them in a picture. But when you call for a clerical position and they call you in for a paper throwing job offer - what more are you supposed to think.

Whom ever decided what pictures to print should know better. This does not assist in healing this only magnifies the disease. Simple things like this matter to a lot of people. I wish I had all of the $.50 spent by the blacks.

Businesses should fly American flags

By LIZ STREET Jasper

I am always saddened when I drive thru our town and see so few American flags. Especially on a holiday that honors our veterans.

My dad is a Purple Heart vet, as I know many here are. It makes my heart hurt to think they gave so much so we have the freedom to express ourselves. I think we could show our gratitude by just flying a flag.

I know after 9/11 we saw flags on almost every home and vehicle. Jasper is such a caring community I just think we need a reminder.

Friday a young man came in the office with a new flag in his hands and wanted to know if he could replace ours. I was so impressed!

As we began to visit I discovered he was recently discharged from the navy. Proof our vets' notice.

Our streets and neighborhoods would speak volumes if they were lined with flags. I know they can be purchased at many of our local retailers and are inexpensive compared to what it cost to have the privilege to own one.

Maybe you could run a list of occasions when Old Glory should be flown. If someone has forgotten it will be a reminder. If someone doesn't know it will be a great learning tool. This isn't about ones political view but more the fact that one is allowed the privileged of having a political view.

Fly a flag at your business.

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Mail letters to: The Jasper Newsboy P.O. Box 1419 Jasper, Texas 75951-1419 or e-mail to: jgalvan@jaspernewsboy.com