Letter to the Editor

Cooper's project laudable, worthwhile

Friday, November 14, 2014

To the Editor:

I'm fairly confident that few people know of the efforts of a 75-year-old man who, almost single-handedly, has taken on a project to build a pavilion complete even with bathrooms and cooking facilities in north Poplar Bluff. He has had very little help and has done almost all of the work himself -- even through the hottest months of the past summer -- and largely, at his own expense!

I would hope that this does not sound like a solicitation but, perhaps, to some extent it may be. I would like to think of it as more of an effort to let the good people of Poplar Bluff know of what could be considered to be a Herculean effort by a man, even older than myself, to do something good while he still can.

Some might ask "why" and how does this gentleman know his efforts will be respected and protected. I asked my friend the same question only yesterday and his answer was typically straight forward and simple. His only request (prayer) was that our Lord would grant him the good health to complete the project. I similarly hope his prayer is answered.

John Cooper is a man who is well respected in Poplar Bluff; particularly on the north side where he has lived for most of his life. I can only hope that his efforts will be honored and respected and believe that they will.

I know of no one who has ever taken on a task like this with nothing to gain except the respect and, hopefully, the admiration of those who know him. John is a very private man and I can only hope that he won't be offended by the information I have shared in this letter.

If anyone should want to help please contact Paul Tucker (573-785-6800) at First Missouri Bank or Tucker Davis, at First Midwest Bank (573-785-8461).

The project should be complete in April 2015. Everyone, whether you can help or not, is cordially invited to attend. The exact date and instructions as to how to get to the pavilion, which is located at 1010 Benton, will be published in the D. A. R.

I hope to see you there!

Jasper Edmundson

Poplar Bluff, Mo.