Dear Editor,

This is in response to Gary Evenson’s protesting Proposition 3C, encouraging proponents to instead eliminate waste and abuse of funds in Garfield County District 16. I was appalled that Mr. Evenson used the Grand Valley High School golf program as his “prime example.” GVHS golf is actually a very poor example.

Mr. Evenson charges that dozens of students participate in the golf program. This is neither true nor relevant.

In the three years I have been a member of the girls golf team we have never had more than seven participants. Likewise, the largest boys golf team was fielded this year with 10 members.

Mr. Evenson is correct in saying we play on expensive courses. However, these courses are opened for high school tournaments free of charge. Our own course, Battlement Mesa Golf Club, allows the GVHS golf teams to practice free of charge, including free range tokens.

The golf program does not “entail numerous school buses, drivers, coaches, etc.” Due to our small size, the golf teams are accommodated by one vehicle driven by a single coach. The girls golf team has two coaches who split the salary of a single coach.

Compared to other high school sport programs, golf is one of the most inexpensive programs in the budget.

Your vote is your business, Mr. Evenson, but Garfield County District 16 voters were misled by your letter.

Clare Matza

Parachute