Kennett residents hold fundraiser for Emerson

U.S. state Rep. Jo Ann Emerson talks to Keith Mitchell about running for District 163 state Rep., vacated by R-Holcomb Otto Bean, who is unable to run because of health concerns, at last night fundraising event held at Paul and Ecky Combs residence in Kennett. [Click to enlarge]

Mr. and Mrs. Jerry Paul Combs of Kennett held a fundraising event for U.S. state Representative Jo Ann Emerson, at their home Thursday evening.

"When we decided to hold the event," Combs said, "I contacted all these people who were excited and willing to support Jo Ann and her efforts all in one afternoon."

Emerson said that she was honored to have all the local supporters to show up and donate to her campaign.

"There are doctors, lawyers, attorneys, pharmacists, farmers and local businessmen who have attended this party tonight to support me and I want them all to know how grateful I am for their support," Emerson said.

People gathered in the piano room of the home to hear Emerson give a speech. Before Emerson took the floor, Combs read a letter from Otto Bean who was regretful for not being capable of attending the gathering.

Combs read, "I truly regret that I am unable to attend tonight. I appreciate the opportunity to still get to show my support for Jo Ann Emerson through this letter. Jo Ann has had some pretty big shoes to fill, but she has continued to prove herself through her many outstanding achievements. Jo Ann is an outstanding representative and I feel we are very lucky to have her representing us in Washington."

Emerson thanked everyone for attending and expressed her regret for Otto Bean not being able to attend.

"It's heart breaking to me that Ott will not be running again this year," Emerson said. "I consider him a longtime friend.

"But Ott and I both think that Mr. Keith Mitchell would do just as good a job," she added.

Emerson said that in Ott's letter he said he is glad Mitchell has thrown his hat into the ring to represent the 163rd district, and there is not a single doubt in that Mitchell could do the job.

Ott's letter said, "I know Keith will have his work cut out for him but we know that he will be an excellent candidate and we will be here to support him and help him in any way we can."

Emerson spoke briefly about some of the highs and lows of the bootheel area over the past year. She talked about the Emerson Motors Corp. closing as well as the agricultural problems that have attacked the local farming community.

Emerson thanked everyone for being there and showing their support, as those attending thanked Emerson for her hard work and efforts to support the farmers and businessmen.

"Agriculture is still the heart and sole of our country," Emerson said. "And no one should expect us to disarm and just go away."