-- Last Updated: Sep-28-12 6:02 PM EST --
...was I e-mailed our congresswoman. Here's my e-mail:
I know this is a busy time for you and thank you for taking the time to read this. I've had issues with Ozark National Scenic Riverways over the last few years. Notably, when they deemed it would be "Essential Government Service" to "Gently escort" users from the riverways when we had the threatened government shutdown awhile back. Also, the 4 year shower house building fiasco at Pulltite, and shutting off water and ceasing to take fees/reservations during a peak use time for the riverways, in October. Anyone who knows anything about the Riverways SHOULD know that peak "Color" usually hits about the 20th of the month. The entire month is probably the best time of the year to be on the river and tourists know that. Yet the NPS staff INSISTS upon shutting water off to these areas on the 15th of the month. I have a large group of tourists that come in from as far away as Maine, Washington (State and D.C.), Texas, Iowa, Wisconsin, MN, et al every year in mid October. We've been getting together here since 2002. I also know of another group (all from Iowa) whom come at roughly the same time every year, and a group from St. Louis who also traditionally come at this time. These folks bring needed cash into Emminence, Salem, and other towns in our area whom NEED this money to tide them through the non-tourist season! I've been a user of the Riverways since the '70's, and you can find me there at least a day or two most weeks of the year. I've been unable to help them realize the folly of shutting off water and restroom facilities during the tourist season, before the end of October. Maybe your office can help? I appreciate any attention your office could provide to this matter. Thank you.