Another century. Another sense of values. Another set of manners. Another way of expressing your views. Another style for letters to the editor.

These are the characteristics of a woman known to many readers of the Southeast Missourian because of her monthly letters to the editor, a form of participation in the issues of our time that reflects the days we remember fondly as yesteryear.

Paula Kempe's letters have been much more than an outlet for her opinions. They have given us all a glimpse of our history, who we are, where we've been and where we're going.

Earlier this month, dozens of Miss Kempe's friends and relatives showed their affection with a party in honor of her 100th birthday anniversary. The event was held at the Lutheran Home, which has been Miss Kempe's residence for years. No one could have been happier with the festivities than the honoree herself.

We all have much to learn from those who have lived full lives. And we are all a bit richer that Miss Kempe has shared her wealth of memories in her epistles to the world.

Happy birthday, Paula Kempe.