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WSIU's Listening Project: Mr. A

Today we continue to explore the history of southern Illinois through the  Listening Project.  Ours story is that of Gene Alexander - a beloved elementary school teacher and principal of more than 30 years in Benton.  Now, at age 81, he's known simply as "Mr. A" - the guy who paints maps of the United States on playgrounds across the region.
 

Credit provided
Gene "Mr. A" Alexander pictured with one his painted playground map of the United States.

Gene Alexander's story was recorded as part of the 100th anniversary of the Benton Public Library.

WSIU's  Listening Project chronicles the history of this place we call home by connecting people with place through their stories. 

You can hear more stories from WSIU's Listening Project here.
 

Jeff Williams is the Associate Director for Radio and Station Manager for WSIU Radio. Jeff is a native of southern Illinois and has been in broadcasting for 30 years. Contact WSIU Radio at 618-453-6101 or email wsiuradio@wsiu.org
Kevin Boucher is a retired broadcaster. Most recently he was a news reporter for WSIU radio. He grew up watching nature programs including Mutual of Omaha’s wild kingdom and the many Jacques Cousteau specials which sparked his passion with nature. Kevin also is an avid hiker and loves seeing and writing stories about the many fascinating plants and animals we share our planet with. Kevin is married and has lived in Murphysboro since 1976, after living in many places, including Japan, as the son of a Navy officer.


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