WESTSIDE LETTERS TO THE EDITOR

— Editor,

Normally, I dislike the negativity of the media. However, this time I feel the citizens of this area need to know what’s really happening in their towns … whether it’s Decatur, Gentry or Gravette.

In the last six weeks, five businesses have closed or are in the process of closing in Gravette alone … the florist, Main Street Cafe, Shop-N-Go, A&D Distributors and the funeral parlor. How is it that all those businesses closed and yet there is not a word in the paper about the closings? Surely, there must be a story as to why the City of Gravette is losing all of its businesses.

And what about Decatur and Gentry? How are they faring in this difficult economic time? Are they losing businessesas well … and if not, why not? Are those towns doing something different to maintain their businesses?

On the flip side, I also feel the paper should immediately recognize those businesses that are new to our towns. We need to support these individuals so they won’t have to close their doors in six months. Like a lot of other citizens, my husband and I have a substantial investment in this area and would hate to see it all become a ghost town.

Concerned About My Town, C.J. Foxx

Editor’s Note: We have been assured by the florist in Gravette that she is not closing. We were not able to verify the writer’s comments about A&D Distributing. Gentry, too, has had businesses close on Main Street, with another closing this month.

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Editor,

We moved here 15 years ago to the quiet country life. We are bordered on three sides by the city of Gravette and yet the city is wanting to annex us in. Our address is correct enough for the county to send us a tax statement each year but they can’t find us to notify us of the upcoming election. Citizens, this is not right.

We don’t know if we will be allowed to vote against this. You have enough on your plate at this time to be able to provide us anything like roads. Please leave us alone. Vote No to annexation.

Bill and Clara Payne Gravette

Opinion, Pages 7 on 10/20/2010