Citizen Forum

Editor:

The Rural Fire Association comprises volunteers who give their time for training and response to emergencies at all hours of the day and night. Then sometimes we get hit with a problem that has nothing to do with fires or highway accidents, like the transmission failure of a water tanker and the repair charges empty our cash reserves.

To solve that problem, the volunteers stepped forward to organize a fundraising event that turned out to be a great social occasion for the city of Eureka Springs. Robert Tollett provided the use of the Gazebo Restaurant for a Halloween Party at the Best Western Eureka Inn and Jason Sprenger slaved in the kitchen, producing food for the evening.

Billy Summers brought his Roaring River Band to play all night, without charge. Billy Hayes scoured the town for door prizes and silent auction items. The event raised a lot of money and was fun for everyone who came.

It makes me very proud to be at the head of this group of local men and women who show such dedication to their community, without any desire for recognition or reward. For their positive "can do" attitude and enthusiasm to solve problems, I am eternally grateful.

Rhys Williams, Fire Chief

Just fix it

Editor:

I'm interested in city government. I try to watch all the meetings. It's like trying to watch television on LSD.

The picture is unwatchable and the sound is totally distorted. I mentioned this to the mayor weeks ago and later to a council member. The impression I got was that this is not considered a big problem ... "Oh, it's just the equipment."

I think this is a top-priority problem and needs to be corrected immediately. The public is being denied valuable information. Watching the Nov. 9 City Council meeting was impossible!

John Turner

Womenade appreciates community support

Editor:

The Womenade group would like to thank Sharon and Rod Minner and staff at the Rowdy Beaver for hosting the poker night on Nov. 2. We would like to thank our dealers: Chuck Wofford, Terry Bushay, Joe McClung, Jr., and Steve Reding. Also, Barry Coburn for bartending, and Kimberly at the New Moon Spa for donating the spa package. A special thank you to all who attended to make the night a success.

Mavis Lehr, Holiday Island

We're all in this together

Editor:

My letter is not to create animosity or divide, but maybe for a better understanding in the area.

It seems that when many items in a community are voted on, consideration is not being given to all those it may affect. Such is the case of Eureka Springs, Holiday Island and the area.

In voting down the cell tower in Eureka Springs because it may be unsightly, it would have enhanced communication reception at Holiday Island and many others in the surrounding area.

My point is, if it is a benefit to all area citizens, then it is the obligation of the town to take this in consideration when voting.

Many may argue that we are not connected, therefore not responsible outside the town limits. Wrong! The school funding issue is an example of the ties that exist between Eureka Springs, Holiday Island and surrounding area. When issues that affect everyone are ignored, how then can you plead for a "yes" vote on the new high school?

Working together and respecting the needs of all is a guaranteed way for the area to move forward with a benefit to all. Remember! What is unsightly today will not even be noticed tomorrow, but what is needed today will be needed tomorrow.

Don Doramus, Holiday Island