Volume II Number 15
Published by the City of Cotter, Arkansas
November 2006
CVFD Auxiliary Announces Fund Raiser
The Cotter Volunteer Fire Department Auxiliary offers sets of four original pencil drawings by artist David Bangal to raise funds for the new Fire and Police Station. There will only be 200 sets of the 11x14 prints, each signed and numbered by the artist. The prints are suitable for framing. The prints will be sold for $125 per set. Individual prints may be purchased for $45 however; the individual prints will not be signed or numbered. Framed copies of the prints were presented to City Hall at the Fire Department/Police Department appreciation picnic and are available for viewing in the lobby of City Hall.
Meet the Candidates 2006
By Theresa Mosley
The Chamber of Commerce hosted the traditional “Meet the Candidates” forum on Tuesday, October 17, 2006. Peter Peitz acted as MC with prepared questions which the candidates were not privy to before hand. Candidates were allowed 3 minutes to respond to each question.
Mr. Peitz encouraged the citizens of Cotter to discern carefully as “through our elections, our votes will hand the keys of the city [to those elected.” Mr. Peitz added that the “questions asked are nonpolitical. There is no agenda. They were selected to address the needs of the City.”
The first question addressed to the mayoral candidates asked how they would react to a catastrophic emergency. The incumbent Mayor, Elwood Mosley, was asked to respond first. He asked what type of emergency Mr. Peitz had in mind as the response will depend on the emergency.
Mr. Peitz indicated they should pick their own emergency. Mr. Mosley addressed the city on fire indicating he would contact the people with the training and equipment necessary to handle the emergency and would support them in any way necessary. He then passed the question to Mr. McNair, the mayoral challenger. Mr. McNair said the only emergency he could think of was the event where Officer Snell was shot. He indicated he did not have any direct involvement with the emergency control and did not give any answer to how he would respond to a similar event in the future.
The candidates were asked to share what they feel is the primary concern for Cotter. The incumbent councilmen and the mayor indicated the major concern is improving infrastructure citing concrete examples of what they have done and the plan in the works. The challengers all agreed infrastructure improvement is necessary. Keith Simmons included the current Police Dept situation in his response. Tom Stuecken, one of the last to speak, stated that he agreed with all the people who responded before him and he would “work within the budget to address the small things before they become big things”.
Mr. Peitz next asked, given the current state of our police department, should the city consider not having a police department but rather depend on the county. All candidates agreed with each other that they want to have the personal contact through a Cotter Police Department so they would not consider it.
The candidates were asked their opinion regarding the importance of tourism. Each candidate agreed that the city should focus on increasing tourism citing that the city needs to do what is necessary to raise money to improve conditions of the City to attract tourist/visitors. Gil Stammer added that we “want to focus on what we have but we don’t want to become a Eureka Springs or a Branson”. He then challenged the citizens of Cotter to help in this regard stating, “there is an apathy in Cotter” citing only about 10 people in the Chamber do all the work that is done and only 3 or 4 citizens of Cotter routinely attend City Council Meetings and none of the citizen’s show up to work sessions. He says, “We need all of you to help.” [Citizens are invited to Council meetings, special sessions and work sessions via notices in the Baxter Bulletin and in the Trout Capital News]
The challenging candidates were asked which area of city government are they not yet fully experienced in and, if elected, what steps would they take to become fully qualified? Mr. Stuecken answered that he would work with the people who have the experience and ask their cooperation. Mr. Burkhart replied that he experienced all areas as a city employee. He said he is “Jack of all trades, master of none” – pun intended. He said he would like more experience in the Budget area. Mr. McNair answered that he has no experience with City Government, but would work hard to learn all of it by working with experienced persons to teach him.
The Mayoral candidates were asked, what steps would they take to keep the citizens of Cotter abreast of their administrations achievements and concerns? Mr. McNair stated he would use the bulletin boards both inside and outside City Hall to post what is going on and he would maintain an open door policy. He added he would use newspaper and radio if something big is happening. The incumbent mayor indicated he does all that now and also uses Cotter’s own Trout Capital News to provide summary of meetings, to report activities and to publicize concerns.
The meeting was then opened to questions and comments from the floor. Afterward, Mr. Peitz thanked everyone for coming. Refreshments were served and people had a chance to talk to candidates one-on-one.
Make
Your Dog’s Life Carefree
Submitted by Barbara Louis
Taxpayers spend millions to control unwanted animals. Stray dogs may bite or attack people or other animals and scare away or kill wildlife and birds. Unsterilized animals often exhibit behavioral and temperament problems. Stray animals may get into trash looking for food and may frighten or anger people who have no understanding of their suffering or needs.
Spaying and neutering helps dogs to live longer, healthier lives by eliminating a number of health problems (such as uterine or testicular cancer). Spaying/neutering make dogs better, more affectionate companions which are less likely to roam.
If you want to know more about spaying or neutering or if you need monetary help to get it done, contact Louis Animal Foundation at (870)425-4825. Puppies may be spayed or neutered as young as three months. Rabies Shot is included with spay or neuter. Dumped dogs or puppies are eligible if the person bringing them in will care for the animal until a home is found for them.
Students Share Stories of Germany Visit
Accepting the invitation from The Saturday Club of Cotter, four students from Mountain Home High School graciously gave of their time to share their experiences, photos and souvenirs of their summer spent as exchange students in Germany.
Cole Watson, Alyssa Arches, Chris Fletcher, Charlotte Lunday and twenty other participants in the German American Partnership Program (GAPP) attended school with their host students, each living with a different family in five cities served by one school of about the same size as the Mountain Home High School.
The students explained that German students attend different High Schools determined by their life ambitions initially chosen in the 5th grade. Students preparing for college attend a different school than do those interested in other vocations. Charlotte said, “I love the options they have with their electives!” She said they have a politic course where they study American politics. She reports the German students knew more about what was going on here than the American high school students living here know.
The student did not limit their activities to school. They took every opportunity to see as much of Germany and surrounding countries as they could. Alyssa said, “I know my way around Chanti better than I know my way around Mountain Home just because we walked everywhere to see the landmarks.” When asked, “Did you like the food?” All four responded in unison, “Oh, yes!” They all related their favorite food experiences. Charlotte said, “When we think of all the home cooked southern meals here – it just sort of warms you, but over there, its just wow! They beat us!” Allyssa craves the chocolate filled croissants she would get at school, “there is like a big pause in the school day and the bakeries would sell their breads.”
Cole was the main spokesperson explaining the differences in life in Germany as compared to here. Chris even had the chance to experience socialized medicine when he broke his arm. They all became more aware of world issues and indicated their priorities have changed as a result of their experience. Cole said, “I will always view this experience as something that made me who I am. The whole summer completely rearranged my brain in so many ways.” Chris added, “I feel much more prepared … more ready for life.” All four definitely recommend others go if they get the chance.
We thank Nancy Reed and Donna Powell for coordinating this event.
White Mist of Cotter Celebrates First Anniversary
The bright sunny Saturday, October 28th was a welcome respite to the
rainy week before and many people made the best of it by visiting White
Mist of Cotter as shop keeper, Julia Caradine, celebrated the arts and
artists.
Many area artisans, eager to meet patrons, set up booths both in and outside the shop. Other artisans came and went throughout the day.
Billie Weliver spins her own yarn for her knit creations. She did her spinning under the tree explaining the process to fascinated visitors throughout the day.
Clara Stultz of Norfolk provided a wide array of jewelry she makes using fused glass and unique beads collected from all over the United States. Each “Jewelry by Clara” piece is an original design inspired by the colors and design of the beads.
Cindy Louis displayed her sewing, knitting as well as some woodworking
by her husband, Terry.
Linda Brewington was on hand to show her watercolor paintings and Hypertufa pots.
Jeanne Ayres displayed a variety of pottery, stain glass and mosaics she created with the help of her husband, Larry.
Sue Whittington was on hand to show her pottery, baskets and the bird houses she crafts with her husband, Jim (Whit).
Jane Flowers presented her paintings and Pearl Baker exhibited her wonderful photography.
Marion Figgins provided a sampling of her quilting, crocheting, and
knitting including her quilted purses and Marilyn Morris demonstrated
her jewelry making techniques. The shop also sells her knitted creations
and paintings.
Jeanne Roth displayed her unique collages and note cards.
Pamela Phillips brings us Gypsy Scout Jewelry.
Linda McIntosh provides crocheted afghans and Janet Emory makes hand woven rugs which are on display in the shop.
Mary Saintjohn of Georges Creek Pottery was on hand as was photographer, Dennis Hodges.
Shelly Baker of White River Jewelry also popped in.
Cars lined both sides of Combs Street as shoppers were drawn to the event. The charm of Cotter enticed guests to visit other Cotter businesses as well. Tina Berry of RiverBend Trading, Iva Duggins of Firehouse Antiques and Nettie Tipton of Linger Longer Cottage all commented that they enjoyed they added business the event, and sunny weather, brought to town.
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The Saturday Club of Cotter is
working on two new projects for the cemetery. First, there is a
need to remove algae and moss from the grave markers/monuments,
and, secondly, we want to create a directory showing the names
of those buried at Walnut Hill. If you are interested in either
of these projects, either physically or financially, your help
would be genuinely appreciated. For more information, please contact Wanda Fielding, Chairman of the Perpetual Care Fund Committee (870)435-6371.
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Cuties Do It Again!
The 'Cotter Cuties' Red Hat group from Cotter are shown
here with their Second Place Float in the 2006 Turkey Trot Parade in
Yellville, AR. In their purple clothing with bright red hats, some
wearing Las Vegas show-girl style feathers, they are seated around a
dining table set with all the trimmings including glasses of wine
anxiously awaiting the main course – the turkey to be dropped from the
bright purple airplane fixed before their float. They have won the
second place honors for three consecutive years, Congratulations to
them!
City Council News
by
Mo Mosley
There was no City Council meeting held on Thursday October 26, 2006 because of a lack of an agenda. I will take this opportunity to briefly describe how agendas are made and how to get on the agenda.
Council Meetings are held the fourth Thursday of each month. The Mayor and the City Clerk put the agenda together by noon on the Monday prior to the scheduled meeting. Once the agenda is settled, it is posted at City Hall inside and outside. The agenda will also be posted at the Post Office, Snappy Mart, and the White Sands. If a citizen has something he wants to present to the council or just wants to have a discussion with the council, they should present the information to the City Clerk/ Mayor by noon on the Friday prior to the meeting.
After the agenda is published, if a citizen wishes to address an issue with council they should come to the meeting and sign up on the sign in sheet for a chance to make a three minute presentation on the topic. The rules of Council Meeting conduct are posted in City Hall. The Mayor and the Council welcome all citizens to meetings.
Chamber Chatter
On Tuesday – October 17, 2006, ‘Meet Your Candidates’ night, sponsored by the Cotter Area Chamber of Commerce, was well attended by interested Cotter citizens. Brief presentations by the candidates, followed by a series of questions by moderator Peter Peitz and the audience were informative and hopefully helpful in your voting decisions. Thanks to the Youth Center for providing the facility and to Janice DuBois and committee for the refreshments.
The ‘Trash or Treasure’ event brought many folks to Cotter to get their ‘treasures’ appraised – some at very impressive values. It was profitable for the Chamber -$1011.16! Thanks to Iva Duggins and all of her volunteers.
The slate of directors and officers for 2007 was accepted and unanimously approved by the membership at the October 17th meeting. There are as follows:
President Iva Duggins
Vice
President Gil Stammer
Secretary Carolyn Gill
Treasurer Margaret Stammer
Board Member Peter Peitz
Board Member Sonny Sharp
The January Holiday Party date and location will be decided at the next meeting which is:
TUESDAY – NOVEMBER 21, 2006
8:00 AM
- WHITE SANDS RESTAURANT
Remember, ALL Cotter area citizens, not just business people, are invited to attend and become Chamber members.
Sponsor of the Month
Rim Shoals Lodge and Fly Shop
On the White River between Cotter and Mountain Home, Gary and Paula
Flippin have transformed Rim Shoals from a lunch stop along the river to
one of the top 20 fly fishing destinations in the world.
Rim Shoals Lodge and Fly Shop has a wide variety of accommodations from Camper Cabins to a spacious River Lodge - all the comforts of home with the thrill of the White River at your feet. All the cabins are seated on the river’s edge.
Licensed guides are available to pilot fishermen on the river and even to provide fly casting lessons. A unique service provided by Rim Shoals is a river taxi to assist wade fishermen in getting to and from choice locations in the catch and release area.
For more information about Rim Shoals call (870) 435-6144 or visit the website at rimshoals.com.
Cotter Kindles Writer’s Imagination
Deb Peterson loves reading middle-grade and young adult fantasy, and
that’s why she writes in that genre. Writing for kids keeps her in touch
with the things in life that matter most: laughter, play, friendship,
love.
One of Deb’s stories draws loosely from life in Cotter. The July 2006 issue of Spider – the magazine for children tells of little Tom who helps out a rainbow trout found stuck in the watercress at the edge of the spring in Deb’s story, “Tom Smackleby and the Rainbow Trout”. It takes little imagination for Cotter readers to recognize city landmarks in the story
Deb grew up speedskating, learned to fly in college, competed as a trick waterskier in her twenties, and autocrossed after that. Now she loves writing stories, playing with astrology, taking pictures of faces, doing yoga in her office, and making dinner with friends. She loves to laugh. She loves trying new things. Next: bongos and golf, though not at the same time.
Deb was born in Minneapolis and lived there most of her life. She graduated from St. Olaf College in Northfield, Minnesota with a degree in English. Now she lives here on the beautiful White River in Cotter, Arkansas, in the heart of the Ozarks, where she’s waiting for her next cat to find her.
She has been published in various magazine articles, the latest an essay entitled “Rhythms” in the September, 2006 issue of Lake Country Journal and she has written an astrology quiz for kids entitled “What Planet Are You On?” for Girls’ Life, published in June/July, 2004. Deb has written a few articles and essays for adults, a lot of business stuff, and is currently working on the next book in the Zodiac series.
Deb’s book is called "The Lost Twins of Zodiac: A Zodiac Adventure" and will be released by Blue Works, an imprint of Windstorm Creative, in October, 2007. It's for kids ages 8 to 14. Here's a synopsis of the story:
Synopsis: The Lost Twins of Zodiac
By Deb PetersonSeconds before two men in black coats try to snatch CK and Butch off the stage at the science fair, the girl genius and the most popular boy at Loon Lake Middle School simply vanish. The monitors on the stage connected to CK’s ThetaBlender show only a whirl of images spinning toward twenty-seven degrees of Sagittarius, precisely into the Ninth Realm of Zodiac.
In a world far across the Milky Way, the rulers of Zodiac (mystical children and quirky adults with all the astrological powers of the planets they personify (celebrate a discovery and debate a grave danger. Their missing Gemini twin, abducted as a baby twelve years earlier, has been found on Earth, only to have disappeared once again. The evil Countess Angrest Chippinoggin and her mindboggins, who lost the baby girl during the first kidnapping attempt, are more determined than ever to capture the girl and harness her powers. The rulers must find her before the countess does, or all communication in the universe will be thrown into chaos and confusion.
CK and Butch tumble through outer space and into a field in Zodiac, and soon discover who they truly are: the lost rulers Mercury and Mars. A reluctant hero, CK struggles with the news that not only is she the focus of the countess’s hunt, she alone must herald the ancient rune that will save the universe from the wicked woman. The only thing CK really wants to save from the countess is the family she has never known(the rebellious and oddly identical twin brother she is shocked to meet.
Forced into using her newfound powers of mystical transport and spirit communication, CK finds she doesn’t need the sandals, helmet, and caduceus of Mercury, that her power comes from within, that things are not always what they seem, and that she must love even the most unlovable in order to triumph. This is a futuristic tale of self-confidence, acceptance, and ultimately, love.
Ms Peterson also teaches two creative writing classes at ASUMH:
"Reviving the Book in You" is for people who need encouragement to finish a manuscript they've started. They'll get feedback from a small group of students in a safe, creative environment, and private editing from me on ten pages of their manuscript.
"The Hero's Journey" is for writers who want to learn how to incorporate universal life principles into their stories. The most satisfying stories contain the timeless elements of the hero's journey, whether the hero is a man or woman, boy or girl, and whether the journey is into the dragon's lair or the depths of the heart. The class is based on Joseph Campbell's hero's journey and Carl Jung's archetypes.
For class dates, times, and prices, call Jane in the Continuing Education department at ASUMH: 870-508-6106.
Coming Events
Nov 7 Election Day
Nov 21 Chamber of Commerce
8:00 are White Sands
Nov 16 City Council Mtg. (Early due to
Thanksgiving) 6:00 pm City Hall
Dec 2 Park Holiday
Decorating 2:00 pm Refreshment Provided
We thank all our sponsors, commercial and private, who make this paper possible and we thank all those who provide articles and other information of interest.
Cotter area businesses and organizations, please contact Tina Berry 435-5577 to provide information about your upcoming events!
Trout Capital News Sponsor/Friends of TCN
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Sponsorship:
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This newsletter is published monthly by the City of Cotter and focuses on organized activities. It is edited by Mo & Theresa Mosley and Tina Berry. It is printed by Good Impressions Printing. It is also published electronically at www.troutcapitalnews.com. If you have information to contribute, please mail it to Tina Berry at smberry13@hotmail.com, drop it by City Hall, or mail it to PO Box 9, Cotter, AR 72626.