Editor:

I remember the days of Fireman’s Park. We had everything there, including a parade with floats from everywhere, even the U.S. Garden entries, other exhibits, 4-H kids and their animals, ball games, vendors, access to the river and shade trees, everything in one place.

I also remember when the city tore down the park and turned it into an industrial zone and promised to restore the grounds in another spot.  Well, what happened?

I grew up in Grand Forks, I will always be from Grand Forks; it’s where I got my community spirit.

The friendships, sportsmanship and community spirit I learned then still serve me well.  It’s a shame to see it lacking in the community today.

After recently attending the Grand Forks and Rock Creek fall fairs as a vendor, I was disappointed to see that the city still has not gotten behind the men and women who work so hard to keep the fall fair going.  Les Braden has an unstoppable community spirit and work ethic; you don’t want to lose him or his crew.

Look at what Rock Creek does with community spirit and a lot of hard work.

The folks with the mini chuckwagons loved the area and would be thrilled to come back.

The volunteers did a fabulous job with limited resources and time and I understand not much help from the city.

I was even shocked to hear that one person refused to sign the petition of support or complained about the gate fee. What a small price to pay to support your community.

If you want to get in free, volunteer some time, you’ll profit in ways you never imagined. Think about it!

Maybe it’s time the city kept their promise and provided a permanent home for the fall fair, so these hard working people can build upon their efforts and have something to show for unstoppable community spirit.

Barb Makortoff, South Slocan