Dear Editor:

I firmly believe that shopping locally is the lifeblood of any community. As much as possible, 1 like to support the merchants in St. John Parish.

This is an especially easy decision during the Christmas season, when I see the heightened security and patrol cars in the parking lots of the LaPlace stores.

Thanks go to Sheriff Wayne Jones and the St. John Sheriff’s Department for funding and providing additional security during the busy shopping season between Thanksgiving and New Years.

On behalf of my family, especially my mother, we appreciate your service.

Ronny Michel

LaPlace