On April 14, 2008, the Southeast Missouri Hospital kicked off Victim Week activities by sponsoring a luncheon for the agencies and organizations which offer help and support to victims of crime. Prosecuting Attorney Morley Swingle spoke and read a proclamation. Attendees included Jackson Mayor Barbara Lohr, Cape Girardeau Mayor Jay Knudtson, Cape Girardeau County Sheriff John Jordan, Cape Girardeau Chief of Police Carl Kinnison and other local dignitaries.
During the evening of April 15, the Victim Services Office of the Prosecuting Attorney's Office and the Board of Probation and Parole sponsored a Flower Ceremony at the Cape Girardeau County Park. This activity is similar to a Candlelight Vigil. However, fabric flowers were furnished instead of candles. Participants were invited to take a flower in remembrance or honor of a victim of crime.
Probation and Parole Officer Marsha Fields, as she has done for several years, assisted in organizing this touching tribute to the victims of crime.
Willard E. Edwards, Dist. Admin. #22/CSC