To the editor:
In response to the article, ‘Another DDA member steps down amidst controversy,? (The Citizen, Sept. 29, page 13):
The comment made by Regiani in that story ?..we need responsibility. There are people on the board who have opinions, but no action?? is completely accurate. I am happy to see those who ‘sat back and let others do the work while they complained? are moving on to other things.
It is disheartening to see the hard work and enthusiasm of the many volunteers be tossed aside by those who sat back and created the controversy we are now reading about in our local paper. We as volunteers put in many hours a month out of our own personal time to better the community. We are proud of what we do, despite the distractions of the libel being spread by those leaving.
I’m sure that the DDA will continue to have a ‘quorum? to meet every month. With more volunteers stepping up daily, the DDA will continue to be a much needed benefit to Ortonville.
Another one of Regiani’s concerns was that the dinner that was served for the past two years at Beets, Beats and Eats should have been open to other civic organizations and churches in the Ortonville area. Being on the committee for BB&E, I know that other organizations and establishments were approached. If Regiani had these concerns and says that the ‘board? did not back her up, she herself should have contacted Pam Belding, market manager for BB&E and promotions committee secretary. As of the time of this letter, Belding has received no communication from Regiani about this matter. Belding said to me, ‘I hope this brings attention to the DDA mission: ‘to promote the continued revitalization of the business community and support its economic potential while preserving our precious historic heritage.? I look forward to meeting anyone interested in making Ortonville the very best it can be.?
It is my hope that the good works started by those who care about Ortonville continues to advance in this small, close-knit community. The volunteers are the heart of this town.
Debbie Baker
BB&E, Promotions, and Organization committee volunteer