No flags flying on Veterans Day?

To the editor:

Today I write with sadness to express my sincere disappointment as I drove down Main Street, returning to my home from a Mount Hope Cemetery visit to pay respect, gratitude and honor to my father-in-law, Richard H. Gushman (Dick Gushman to many longtime residents) on this national day of remembrance of our past and present veterans.

It was with heartfelt sadness I realized that I did not see one American flag displayed outside any local business, whether large or small. I acknowledge the gratitude advertisements by the businesses earlier in the week due to the current schedule of newspaper circulations, but still to see rural downtown America, especially in Baker County, devoid of any American flag on Nov. 11, Veterans Day 2009, was sadly shocking to me!

How about a  Halloween parade?

To the editor:

I should be the last person on earth to write about Halloween. There is a connection between All Hallow’s Eve and All Saints and All Souls, which the Catholic church celebrates on Nov. 1 and 2, respectively. But I also know what a big day it is for children. I am grateful that the town of Baker City creates such a safe environment for our little ones, when in other places such a day may give rise to mischief and pranks and uncalled-for trouble.

I have a simple idea that can enhance the celebration on that busy and crowded afternoon when children invade Main Street dressed up in anything that is scary, spooky, cute and perplexing at times.

Problem is blight properties

To the editor:

Regarding the recall issue: Everyone seems to think this is all about the firing of Mr. Brocato, in which I disagree.

Many of the newcomers to town are just frustrated with the lack of a city ordinance that will take care of “blight properties.” We all know about the rentals owned by the council members in question. We want results on this for the sake of our town, properties, and economic well-being.