The following is a commentary that was published in the Cassville Democrat this week. It's very touching to see how the Cassville school district handled this terrible situation and just as heartwarming that Mount Vernon publicly recognized them and sent a sincere thank you note in return.
If only more people, schools, communities, counties, states, and nations could have this sort of compassion and respect for each other. I am proud of both the Cassville Wildcats and the Mount Vernon Mountaineers.

MVHS students thank Cassville community
Thursday, November 2, 2006 3:50 PM CST

Dear citizens of Cassville,

I would simply like to thank all of you for the amazing understanding and compassion you showed toward Mt. Vernon on Oct. 6. That day, after school was dismissed, two of our cheerleaders were involved in a wreck, killing one and injuring the other.

Even though the football game that night between Cassville and Mt. Vernon had been billed the game of the week, your players, coaches and administrators agreed that the game could not be played. Mt. Vernon High School appreciates your understanding. It will not be forgotten.

Many of your fans told us there are things more important than the big game, and for that we thank you. We, the students of Mt. Vernon High School, are grateful.

Sincerely,
Brent Spradling
Mt. Vernon High School
Student Body President