Letter to the Editor

Recently the city of Austin showed me its true colors when it feted both June Kjome and me on Homecoming weekend.

I must admit to feeling a bit skeptical as I sat on the high school stage awaiting my turn to address the student body. There were 1,225 students with their hair spiked, their faces painted and sporting all manner of wild costumes. It would be accurate to describe the scene as fever pitched. In this crazed mood, how would June and I ever get across our messages, let alone get the students to even listen to us?

Astonishingly, it took only a few words from Mr. Bergstrom to immediately calm them. “Assembly behavior,” is what he said. And with that, there was instant quiet and we proceeded. Not only did the students listen, but later while walking alone through the school halls, I was also stopped at least seven times by students who thanked me for my words.

This took real caring. Real courtesy! Let me remind you once again that the school was in a mad frenzy that day with students rushing from one game to another. Even so, they took the time to stop me and express their appreciation.

Clearly the families in Austin are doing things right. What a terrific group of young people they are raising. I would like to congratulate these parents on their efforts because it is obvious they are working. There is no question that this student body is on its way to becoming excellent future citizens.

I would also add that I had my real doubts as to riding in the Homecoming Parade. After all, who wanted to look at an old lady when there were so many more attractive and fun sights? And, yet, once again the folks of Austin showed their merit. It warmed my heart to see them wave; to acknowledge that even I, at 74, could fit into their parade.

It’s no wonder that Austin remains the hub of my universe; although, I have not lived there for 56 years. Thank you, Austin! You, indeed, made me feel special.

With warm appreciation,

Peggy McLaughlin Keener