Editor;
It has come to my attention that “the powers that be” have moved the longest running Folk Festival in the U.S. from the usual weekend in October to the Veteran’s Day weekend in November. Shame on them.
Why would anyone purposely walk all over the Veteran’s Day weekend when there are other weekends open in both October and November for their event? First off, there’s not enough parking or lodging in Eureka Springs to accommodate those who would attend each of these individual weekends when stacked on top of each other.
Also, the “powers that be” have commandeered the space above Spring Street to hang the banner for the Folk Fest leaving the Veteran’s Day banner with virtually no place to display itself.
There are a myriad of other reasons, too, that should be considered when making these decisions. It isn’t that difficult to be looking at a calendar when planning a festival. Veteran’s Day is November 11, period. That day doesn’t change like Easter or Thanksgiving or President’s Day.
I’m just guessing, but the committee that made this decision, in all likelihood, doesn’t have any veterans on it. And, no, the day or weekend isn’t for celebrating war, but it’s to honor the veterans who showed up and were willing to put their life on the line to defend the liberties of a free country.
To make it clear, I don’t represent any other individual other than myself in these opinions or any group. Some may agree with me, but I am not speaking for them. Others, obviously, will disagree. It’s your right to do so, but that right was fought and paid for by veterans.
So, please do the right thing and reschedule the Folk Festival.
Roy Tronnes, veteran, U.S. Army