Jesse Helms, RIP
Tomorrow will be one of those papers with the big story that tells people what they already know: Jesse Helms is dead. But it is a keeper because, regardless of what you think of him, Jesse was a pivotal figure in North Carolina politics.
I listened to Helms as a television editorialist as I grew up in Raleigh and wasn't impressed with his rabid conservatism or racial views. That did not change as we both grew older. But his savviness as a politician -- and manager of the press -- cannot be denied.
Through the years, I interviewed and spoke with Sen. Helms many times. He was always gracious and helpful. My first newspaper job was in Monroe, where Jesse's father had been police chief. He grew up there and went to Wingate College, which is also in Union County. While as a politician he castigated the liberal media, he was always kind to us at the Enquirer-Journal in Monroe. We actually felt pretty blessed politically because in addition to Helms, two other influential politicians -- Henry Hall Wilson and Skipper Bowles -- were born in Monroe.
All are gone now.
Comments (8)
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Senator Helms,
Please rest in peace. God Bless your family.
Posted on August 10, 2008 10:44 PM
Senator Helms,
RIP.. God bless you and your family.
Sincerely,
Cpl. Jon Lowder
Union County Sheriff's Office
Monroe, North Carolina
Posted on August 20, 2008 9:33 PM
Senator Helms,
RIP.. God bless you and your family.
Sincerely,
Cpl. Jon Lowder
Union County Sheriff's Office
Monroe, North Carolina
Posted on August 20, 2008 9:33 PM
God bless Senator Helms and his family.
Thank you for your dedicated service for our citizens.
Sincerely,
Jon Lowder
Monroe, NC
Posted on September 10, 2008 10:36 PM
Dear Mr. Robinson,
I would like to personally thank you for your
section of the paper. It is very professional
and fair (unlike a lot of media).
THANKS ! Mr. Robinson "rocks"
Jon Lowder of Monroe, North Carolina
aka "Nature Boy" whooooo!!!!!!!!!!
Posted on January 11, 2009 10:04 PM
JON LOWDER HAS NO FURTHER COMMENTS. THESE ARE HIS PERSONAL COMMENTS AND DO NOT REPRESENT ANY ORGANIZATIONS THOUGHTS, OPINIONS , OR VIEWS. (NOTE: THIS DISCLAIMER). THANKS . JON LOWDER
Posted on February 9, 2009 11:08 PM
Each and every comment are that of Jon Lowder's first ammendment rights . Please note this disclaimer that none of his comments are that of his employer. (It is neither representative of or non representative of his employer).
Jon Lowder is not commenting on any other subject in this or any other media section unless ordered by a SUPERIOR COURT JUDGE. Mr. Lowder is asserting his 5th ammendment right not to incriminate himself.
Jon Lowder of Monroe, NC
Posted on February 9, 2009 11:13 PM
Thank You ! for posting my disclaimer Mr. John Robinson.
Jon Lowder of Monroe, NC
Posted on February 9, 2009 11:15 PM