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Dear Editor,

I am writing in response to Councilwoman Terrie Turner Salter’s statement re: Paul Burch, Mayor Pro Tem.

First, I want to say that I was born and resided for 50 years in Orange. My mother and her five brothers and many of my relatives were also born here and many still live in the area.

I no longer live in Orange but follow the happenings there on this site because of my heart-string ties to the city.

With that said, I have known Paul Burch for many years and know him to be truthful, hard-working and reliable. After reading with interest Ms. Salter’s comments, I do not know what she is telling us exactly.

The comments were vague and suggestive of something; I just do not know what that something is exactly.

If she is willing to make suggestive statements, then she should be willing to speak directly and not be afraid to lay everything out on the table. The vagueness of the responses can lead to confusion and misinterpretations.

Even though I do not live in Orange, I do not want a Paul Burch, a man totally dedicated to public service in his community, maligned in this manner.

If there is a problem, let it be clearly stated and corrected. I am sure Mr. Burch will be forthcoming with any information needed if given the opportunity.

That is the type of person I know him to be.

— Anna Thomas, Cleveland, Texas