To the Editor:

How fortunate we are in Fayette to have a weekly newspaper with wide-ranging information and essential, helpful services for the community! I look forward to the paper’s arrival each week! The Fayette Advertiser lets everyone know what is happening and what everyone is discussing: current town events and issues, local politics and elections, business, sports, education, and a focus on the many achievements and activities of Fayette citizens featured in its pages.

Journalistically, the layout of the paper is eye-catching and appealing, and the articles are well-written, balanced, and fair, clearly the products of a responsible, professional staff with excellent communication skills. A glance at the headlines entices the reader to read each story closely! As the public’s “eyes and ears,” the paper creates a positive sense of community and encourages everyone to take part in the many civic and recreational opportunities that help develop economic growth and progress here in town. State issues and concerns that may affect the town are thoroughly examined as well.

The photojournalism contributes to both content and spirit of the news, and the color pictures add depth and interest. I especially enjoy photos of smiling children posing with much-loved animals they have raised themselves or beaming with pride with a school award for good citizenship. The Sports Section of June 10 was so full of smiles – Payton with his trophy, the cowgirls heading for the national rodeo, and Quess Frerking and his proud parents as he signed his letter of intent. I often find myself smiling back at the happy faces so well captured by the photographers. The sweet photo and story honoring “Miss Jane” (May 27th) were inspirational and heartwarming!

Beautiful photos taken in town as well – the swimming pool against a bright blue, cloud-streaked sky, the deserted town square with the proud display of American Flags for Memorial Day, colorful trees on the city streets in autumn, and snow-covered houses and yards after a winter storm, historic buildings on the CMU campus and classic Victorian homes – all showcase Fayette in the most appropriate spot – its hometown newspaper.

Although the pandemic has affected so many local events this year, coverage of the high school seniors, Juneteenth, and the Fishing Derby keeps the focus on activities that characterize Fayette. The same is true of the June 24th photos of the lovely Prom Royalty. The Sports Section follows town and university sporting events, standings, signings, and players and coaches in depth and detail all year round, with lots of great action photos through all the sports seasons.

In addition to the news, the paper has something for everyone. The advertising, church announcements, obituaries, and calendars of coming events all provide valuable services for readers and residents. As a retired English teacher I enjoy “The Grammar Guy,” and the Missouri lore in “Historically Yours.” The same is true of “The Doctor Is In” which addresses a broad range of relevant medical concerns and “Way Back When” as a review of past events and entertaining town history!  

This is a long letter, but it could be much longer! So many things about each week’s edition are special to me and to all the readers! As an integral part of the town, The Fayette Advertiser captures the spirit of Fayette. In a time of so much change, the paper reinforces a sense of community and encouragement important to all. I look forward to each weekly issue. Grateful thanks to all those who work so hard to make The Fayette Advertiser a positive force for the community.

Marian Rusk

Webster Groves, MO 63119

Fayette, MO  65248