On behalf of all those involved in the Jackson Underground Dodgeball League, I want to express my gratitude for the fantastic article about the 2004 JUDL Invitational that appeared in the March 25 edition of the Southeast Missourian.

We felt the article portrayed the youth of the community in a very positive manner. It seems that many community beliefs depict area youths as degenerates or societal malcontents. While I won't deny those allegations aren't sometimes true, it is not often that area youths are seen as such creative, passionate people who give back to their community.

The turnout March 19 was stellar, the competition was intense, and the camaraderie was inspiring, as young and old alike enjoyed an entertaining evening of dodgeball. We take great pride in the fact that we have created something everybody is welcome to participate in, regardless of age, race, sex, culture, socio-economic status or athletic ability.

The 2004 JUDL Invitational was an enormous success thanks to the many youths who worked together to make it happen.

We would especially like to thank Joseph Midkiff and Mark Unterrenier for their superb coverage of the event. And though this article may have made us less "underground," I believe the overwhelmingly positive outcome for both the community and youths in general is enough to overlook our loss of "street cred."

Come out and see for yourself, Friday night dodgeball is indeed "for people who want to do something different."

JOSH TOMLIN

Jackson