by Bob Stealey

editor

Joyce Horovitz and Martha Bobela, both of Grafton, sent me a letter last week about the recent Grafton Firemen's Festival. Because I believe in what they had to say about it, I'd like to share it with Bob'n'Along readers.

They pointed out that the festival was a huge success despite the fact that several other area events were going on at the same time.

"This event has grown to the extent," they said, "that three additional staff members were added to help organize next year's show. Barbara Robison and her mother, Leota Halsey, will be organizing the crafters, and Bernie Horovitz will be in charge of entertainment.

"They were so helpful 'behind the scenes' this year, too."

The ladies extended their gratitude first to the general public for attending the two-day event and for the overwhelming support of the Grafton Fire Department. They also acknowledged Dave Robison for maintaining traffic control and other duties.

"All table spaces were completely filled with craft displays and overflowed to the outside."

They thanked the Grafton Fire Department staff for building the stage, getting the canopies, chairs and tables, and for operating the kitchen; and Mirage Sound of Grafton and its owner, Skip Mason, who provided the sound equipment for the show's entertainment.

"We really appreciate the entertainers who gave of their time and talent to support the festival, including the Nashville performer Casey Ferguson, who impersonated Willie Nelson. The appearance of 'McGruff, the Crime-fighting Dog' delighted the crowd with his antics. Also, thanks to 'Safety Pup,' who came as a special treat to the children."

Further, they extended kudos to the Division of Natural Resources, whose personnel went into the woods to find "Smokey Bear" and bring him to the festival. "Perhaps," they said, "we can get Smokey again next year before he goes into hibernation."

Mrs. Horovitz and Mrs. Bobela also wrote, "The U.S. Army Reserve Center deserves a special thanks for hosting the show in its facility. We would like to especially acknowledge Sgt. Vince Webber, who made a special effort to maintain the reserve center during our presence there."

A memorable moment came for Joyce and Martha, the organizers of the festival, when they were treated to a brief ride on Grafton's new fire engine. Apparently the absolute delight of Joyce and the surprised alarm of Martha (when Joyce blew the air horn and siren) were sights to behold.

Word has it that Martha will never again go near a fire truck again unless Joyce is bound and gagged.

Thanks, ladies, for your comments.

As the time draws nearer for responsible American citizens to head for the polls, a thought struck me just the other day. Throughout the various campaigns, we have heard that this candidate doesn't seem smart enough to hold office, while that candidate isn't entirely honest and perhaps can't be trusted.

Let me just put it this way: Stupid office-holders can enlist good advisers. Can we say the same for dishonest ones?

Another column Wednesday!