I have been surprised to see people writing in bashing Kristin Day and the Reflector for the coverage of an eating contest. I felt the purpose of the story was to provide a light-hearted, fun break to the seriousness of life we all face.

These local eating contests have been going on forever. It is a main attraction at the Ayden Collard Festival each year. Positive eating habits come from what a child is fed and taught in the home and school. Perhaps there may have been too much coverage for this event but that is the only complaint I could possibly fathom.

To answer Dr. Ruffolo's question in the May 7 Public Forum, "What are the positive behaviors that we should be encouraging, particularly to our youth?," I feel two things.

First of all, common sense. Even as a child, I never would have perceived an event like this as a way of life. Second, life is short and have fun when we can. Being too serious can be unhealthy as well (stress and heart attacks go hand in hand).

It really scares me to think a light-hearted, fun event like this can sway our youth's entire thinking.

If that is the case, how can we trust such a mindless bunch to vote in elections? I try to teach my child to think for himself and not take things at face value.

KIKI SIEBELS

Greenville