Reader urges support for mayor being recalled

Dear editor:

The mayoral recall (in Glenns Ferry).

Let's just stop for a minute and set aside the emotion and opinions and get to the real issue.

Small villages and towns throughout our country are suffering economically, and many are evolving into "Ghost towns."

Specifically,

Initially, Glenns Ferry was merely a trading post, and the only place the western migration of settlers could cross the dangerous Snake River for movement west. Several ferries were established to transport the families and stock across the river, and the mule and horse teams and wagons were floated across at great danger to the animals and drivers, keeping the loss of life to a minimum.

The Glenns Ferry area, having fertile ground and mild winters, attracted settlers and the community became established. Cattle ranches, farms and businesses prospered. The railroad then was built and became a "rail hub", with train crews, a round house, repair crews and one of the largest monthly "cash payrolls" in the area, Glenns Ferry grew.

The wars came and the community contributed to the cause, the birth of the "Moose Lodge", "VFW," "American Legion" and other organizations evolved, all with the focus of "MAKE OUR COMMUNITY BETTER!"

This was a well maintained clean little town. Everyone had a job and problems were escorted out of town by Chief of Police John O'Malia.

Times have changed, the highway has changed, the railroad has departed and the agricultural climate has changed resulting in a diminishing income to enhance the community.

You are fortunate to have a mayor who over the decades has experienced much of the history and whose "heartfelt" desire is to address the reality of the city obligations, enhance growth, soliciting outside corporations to settle here and become a positive element in Glenns Ferry's survival and again prosperity.

Her focus is to daily "keep the ship afloat!" She is confronted with many issues and must "prioritize" and do that which is right for the community, not only for "today's business" but long-term sustainment, and growth.

Other elements that have entered our society are the "WHAT'S IN IT FOR ME," "I WANNA BE SOMEBODY," mentality. These people care little about the community growing, only enhancing their personal insignificant lives at the expense of the reality of the condition of Glenns Ferry. They don't care about paying the bills, or promoting their community and bringing businesses in.

Their mentality is very destructive, and if allowed to continue will destroy your town. There is no "teamwork" with the focus on the community.

When you hear these people rant, listen, NOT TO WHAT IS BEING SAID, but watch WHO IS DOING THE SAYING!!

What is their motivation?

Examine their "score card in life," what are their achievements, sacrifices, successes, contributions, personal lives.

How do they take care of their families, and businesses, and reputation. Are they productive or "trust babies," "phoneys," "liars," "criminals," "thieves," "wannabees," or just plain "stupid!"

You see, what a person IS, DOES, AND HAS DONE, reflect directly on what their validity is, and clearly illustrate their value!

My thoughts...

-- W.W. Knox II

(Knox is a former Glenns Ferry resident now living in Fairfield).