Laura Teske
Jefferson City
Dear Editor:
Mr. Dirschell, I want to welcome you to Jefferson City, Missouri. I too am a transplant - from my home state of Southern California of all places. I've been here since 2002 and I also had a bit of culture shock when first moving here, however, I did come to respect and enjoy learning so much from the "Show Me State." The people here are resilient and comforting. My first "shock" was how everyone "waved" at you from their doorsteps - you certainly wouldn't get that from my home state and I wondered why would someone wave at me if they didn't know me?
But I digress - as we all know, Ceres is the goddess of agriculture and what a fitting image to use at a prominent riverfront image - where Lewis and Clark made history. I have never observed anyone prostrating themselves nor offering sacrifices to Ceres so in this sense I do not see anyone "revering" the statue above the Capitol.
In Jefferson City, I find that history is the culture here (not paganism). A wonderful history of farming to family to citizens waiving on front porches. I have had other friends and family visit here and they always comment on the massively beautiful Capitol that represents Missouri.
Another thing about Jefferson City's culture is its unique religious offerings from Baptist, Catholic, Protestant, Jewish Temple and Mosque - you name it. So do seek out your religious affiliation of choice and become a member of this great small town and its citizens.
I would encourage anyone who seems to have an issue with returning the goddess of agriculture atop this Capitol building, to find something more meaningful to be a part of in our community - such as the Lewis and Clark Taskforce (for historical knowledge), Capitol City Theaters (live performance theaters) or Habitat for Humanity (to offer a helping hand).
Sincerely, your neighborhood transplant, Laura Teske.