I am writing concerning the removal of fresh flower arrangements on the graves at Woodland Cemetery.

I understand there is a policy that states that no sort of arrangement or tribute may sit on the ground around the graves. Fully understanding the reason for this policy, I rather agree — except for the holidays.

There are sure to be people from out of town who are unaware of the cemetery policy and in good faith, to honor their deceased love ones, have placed flowers on the grave.

My aunt and uncle are a couple from another town who were unaware of the policy and happened to place a fresh arrangement on the ground directly in front of her mother and father’s grave marker only to have it removed less than 24 hours later, much to her dismay.

Upon driving by cemetery the next day she saw a truck laden with fresh arrangements and other tributes being hauled to the dump site.

My aunt questioned the truck driver and he stated that this action was policy and he was sorry. Rules are rules.

It would seem after the specific grave areas have been mowed for the holiday upcoming that it would be of no consequence to the cemetery to have these tributes left until the day after said holiday.

By the day after the holiday, if the tributes aren’t removed, then it would be fair to remove them for mowing. It doesn’t seem that this would be any more inconvenient than removing the flags that are placed on grave markers, which must also be removed for mowing.

I surely hope that this policy be revised just for the summer holidays at least.

Thank you for this consideration as many would be happy for the change.

Carol McElroy

Ironton