As a resident of Battlement Mesa I was glad to know that commissioners Samson and Houpt were “concerned” about how the illegal gas drilling operations of the Williams Energy Co. were negatively affecting the health and welfare of the residents of our PUD.

Despite their “concerns” in an act of true “bipartisanship” they both voted along with Commissioner Martin to give Williams everything they wanted by approving a retroactive special use drilling permit in order for them to now legally continue their operations with no restrictions or penalties even though the special use permit was in violation of some of the restrictions contained in the declarations of the PUD and despite the fact that there were questions about the disposal of toxic waste and pollution of water supplies.

This is a perfect example of how our elected “representatives” at all levels of government cast their votes when dealing with special interests who have huge pools of legalized bribery campaign contribution funds that they can utilize to further their interests.

Garry Evenson

Parachute

I live in Satank and am just wondering where the money is coming from to rebuild th pink bridge They have already spent millions on a bike path and now they want to open up a closed road that will increase bike and foot traffic through our neighborhood. Along with the increased traffic here comes the dogs and we know what that means. I just can’t understand our county commissioners wanting to spend more money on a project such as this, but as long as the taxpayers sit back and do nothing those in power will keep on spending.

Gene Roberts

Carbondale

Government should not support Gems

This morning I read in the Dec. 17 issue of the Sopris Sun that the town of Carbondale has given $2,000 to the Wilderness Workshop, which is backing the Hidden Gems wilderness project. The article also said that the town of Basalt and Pitkin County have also provided funds to the Wilderness Workshop. This project, and opposition to it, has received growing coverage in the local news media. However, it’s my opinion that public discussion and debate have not risen to a level that merits local government endorsement of Hidden Gems, let alone giving money to one side or the other. The resolution of this issue will affect the ability of me, my family and friends to recreate on public lands. I submit to you that providing public money (my tax money) to advocate a private group’s position on the Hidden Gems issue is not what these people were elected to do. How can any of them now claim to have an open mind on this issue as it continues to unfold. They have acted thoughtlessly and unethically, and many of us will not forget.

John Goodwin

Carbondale

I enjoy my daily ritual of reading the letters to the editor – passionate and sometimes political. I decided to take this opportunity to simply express a personal feeling that I hope others can relate to this holiday season.

It is during this time of year that many people find themselves taking part in some self-reflection. Many may feel lonely or sad, and others thankful.

While a mix of these emotions dance on my memory and current state of mind, in my heart I feel so lucky. I love Colorado. I love the Roaring Fork Valley. The intense sense of spirit here, that has very little to do with our holiday culture, exists in our surroundings. The snow and Sopris and the sunshine and the ice on the river and the ranchers and the cowgirls (Anita Witt, of course) and the skiing, snowboarding, snowshoeing … it is indescribable. As cheesy as it may sound the Nitty Gritty Dirt Band said it best “the closest thing to heaven on this planet anywhere is a quiet Christmas morning in the Colorado snow.”

In these tough economic times and with the world around us leaving me saddened and confused, I feel so blessed to live here and to be a part of such a vibrant, changing and wonderful community. Be thankful this holiday and let us teach our children to take the time to truly embrace this special place that we get to call home.

Tracey Yajko

Glenwood Springs