Editor, Times-Union: This evening I attended the DARE graduation program at Leesburg School, of which my grandson was a participant. It was my first experience to observe this wonderful program.
I would like to commend Officer Polston for the super job he does. He is such a caring, loving person. The love and emotion he shares with these children is so heartwarming.
It's so comforting to know that this wonderful Christian man is there for the children, now and later on, if they need him.
Keep up the great work Officer Polston, you are very special.
Robert Ferverda Warsaw
Dedicated Leaders
Editor, Times-Union: A very special thank you is expressed for the assistance given a few days ago by Indiana State Representative David Wolkins, Winona Lake, and the office of U.S. Congressman Tim Roemer. It took only a phone call to Rep. Wolkins to put in motion the procedure necessary to assure that Ralph Sweet would have his resting place at Arlington National Cemetery in Washington, D.C. It is heart-warming to know that we can really count on dedicated political leaders in times of personal need.
Ann Sweet Warsaw
Hampton Endorsed
Editor, Times-Union: After prosecuting in Kosciukso County for six years, Dan Hampton accepted a position with my office in January 1995. Since that time, he has been a senior trial deputy prosecutor in our juvenile division for one year and in our major adult felony division for the last two years.
In both arenas, Dan has quite ably represented the state of Indiana. His courtroom demeanor, trial skills and professionalism are outstanding. He quickly analyzes a criminal prosecution, is fair in his dealings with defendants and defense attorneys, and is fearlessly dedicated to the pursuit of justice.
In 1997, Dan maintained the highest average caseload of major felony cases among our deputy prosecutors while overseeing and supervising the administration of the major felony section. He has earned the respect of his peers, judges, law enforcement officers and the public.
Recently, I again assigned Dan to the juvenile division so that he can implement a modernization of the juvenile justice system based on a model that he developed. I have confidence that Dan will monitor our staff in working with the judges and probation department to make the transition flawless and successful.
I am pleased that Dan is a member of my staff. I am especially pleased that he has decided to seek the office of prosecuting attorney of Kosciusko County. Dan will do an excellent job representing the state of Indiana and the citizens of Kosciusko County with his integrity, professionalism and dedication to justice.
Robert W. Gevers, II Prosecuting Attorney 38th Judicial Circuit State of Indiana
New License Plates
Editor, Times-Union: The beautiful, new license plates are being issued. The navy blue on white is very readable.
I wanted to know the significance of the things on the plate, so I checked in World Book Encyclopedia.
"The Crossroads of America," across the bottom of the plate, is the Indiana state motto. The map of Indiana is on the left-hand side of the plate, in yellow or gold. Superimposed upon it is a golden torch symbolizing liberty and enlightenment. The 18 gold stars surrounding these items stand for the 18 states in the Union when Indiana was admitted. One larger gold star, representing Indiana, is directly above the top of the torch. These things are from the Indiana state flag, adopted in 1917.
Other information: Indiana became the 19th state on Dec. 11, 1816. "On the Banks of the Wabash," our state song; words and music were written by Paul Dresser.
This is one license plate that I am going to keep when it is replaced. "Amber Waves of Grain" is one to save, too.
Indiana is one of the few states that do not have a front license plate. This must be difficult for the police.
Last year I was in western Illinois. A policeman came to my car to ask why I had no license plates. This was about 380 miles from Warsaw where they don't see Indiana plates often. He did not know about our single plates.
