To the Editor:
You might know about Jeff Larner, the professional: Marine, policeman, head of Global Security for two multinational corporations. But let me tell you about Jeff Larner, the man. Or actually, the kid.
Jeff and I grew up in adjacent neighborhoods in the sticks outside Granite City. We attended grades 1-12 together. When we were in high school in the ‘70s:
- Despite being a skinny runt, Jeff was a great athlete and natural leader. He was captain of the Granite City soccer team in the era they won ten state championships. I always admired his work ethic and discipline.
- He was well-liked, and gentlemanly at an age it wasn’t cool. He was voted Fall Festival King.
- When guys did dumb things like break school windows or TP yards, Jeff would try to talk them out of it and refused to participate. He resisted peer pressure—a man of principle even as a teenager.
- He also ignored peer pressure by joining the choir—rare for athletes. A musician, he also played drums in a garage band. A person of many talents.
- Most impressive to me: despite being a sports legend and a rock star and uber popular, Jeff was humble. He was never arrogant or cliquish, and always had a smile and a kind word for everyone. Jeff was raised right.
Jeff is a man of character. He will treat citizens and deputies fairly. I wholeheartedly support Jeff Larner for Sheriff of Madison County.
Dave Heth, Maryville