To the Editor,

I attended my 12th concert of the B.B. Thompson Youth Choir on Sunday afternoon at First Baptist Church North Main Street in Fairmont and just like the previous 11 left enthused and very joyful. This was the 40th anniversary concert of the choir and they certainly celebrated in grand style, showing off their wonderful talents to those who attended. Those who make up the choir come from churches throughout our county, participate voluntarily, and are outstanding young people.

The only sad note for me regarding this particular concert was the retirement announcement of Mrs. Louise Lassiter as the choir’s long-serving director. She has decided to give up the director’s post that she has held for many years to serve as an advisor to the directors who will take her place and serve as a counselor to the choir members. As a former public school teacher who was in daily contact with young people, I can fully appreciate and admire the respect that each member of the choir shows her, which is obvious during their performances. The members are fortunate to have this lady and the many other adults who serve as mentors to guide and help mold them.

I am very proud to have been a member of the audience at these wonderful concerts in which our local youth are given the opportunity to both express their special musical talents and exhibit outstanding character and leadership qualities. I look forward to attending many more.

Charles Kemp

Fairmont