To the editor:

It is with sincere sadness that I have submitted my resignation to the Youngsville Fire District Board today, August 17.

When I was asked to join the board, I felt it was one of the greatest privileges I have ever had as a citizen of Youngsville - not only to serve my community, but also to support the men and women that so selflessly serve YOU, 24 hours a day, never ever wavering from the call of duty and always putting the community ahead of themselves, their own families and their jobs.

What has gone on over the last nine months has been truly disheartening. Some members, unhappy with change and no longer able to maintain the control they have had for so long have stepped out on their own accord and have worked hard to tear down others while portraying themselves as victims. The constant hostility and unfair attacks on the character and dedication of our active, most dedicated firefighters and the District Board are unacceptable. They have been stripped of the basic dignity and support they so greatly deserve (everyone volunteering in small towns across this country deserves that respect). The very people that have created this divide were, at one time, the new member, the new chief, the new commissioner all with different experiences yet they were given the respect that has very sadly been stripped from the current members, chiefs and Board of Commissioners.

I ask, please, when you see posts on Facebook or read letters in the paper, do your own due diligence as a community member and taxpayer before reacting and adding to a divide that should not be happening in our district. Ask questions. Seek out facts. DO NOT assume that everything you are hearing and reading tells the entire story. Also, remember that this is hurting all local fire departments as well. It paints a picture that can do lasting damage to so many. I do not want to think what will happen when we become the community whose fire department has to shut its doors. Do not think this cannot happen- it can!

Thank you for taking the time to read my letter. I sincerely hope you will take some time to reflect on what I have shared and consider it thoughtfully.

Donna Abplanalp

Youngsville