I recently read in the Paragould Daily Press Online News that the name of Eight Mile Creek has been changed to "Francis Bland Floodway Ditch" to honor Francis Bland because of his many contributions to Paragould and Greene County and particularly relating to flood control. Was there any discussion of this change before the politicians all the way from President Bill Clinton to Mayor Mike Gaskill decided that it should be made? It was a shock to me. I don't live in Arkansas now and don't get much local news anymore. My sister and I, and a cousin were born less than one hundred yards from Eight Mile Creek in the Pine Knot community. My grandparents and other family members have lived along this stream since the 1850's. I personally feel that a part of my history has been taken away. But did the change have any opposition at all? Would someone who has some local knowledge about this issue please respond. Joe W. Pruett