To The Editor:

The horrific events that took place this past weekend in Charlottesville, Va., have once again ripped at the heart of our country and its people. As we continue to read about and see the blatant hate and racism on display, we are appalled. And we hope you are too. As ministers of the Gospel, and faithful followers of Christ, we are called to speak out against such actions. Let it be known that YMCA of the Rockies adamantly denounces all forms of hate and racism. It is never acceptable! And we firmly stand with and support our brothers and sisters of every color, every race, every faith tradition, every sexual orientation and identity, every disability, and every socio-economic status. And again, we hope you do too.

As our staff gathers in the coming days for a time of prayer, we will be lifting up all who have been, and continue to be, victims of racism and hate. And until such horrible actions cease to be, we will continue to pray daily!

We will also be praying for our country, as well as those who instigate such blatant disrespect for our fellow Americans and the values for which we stand. Those who would engage in and/or support racism and hate under the banner of Christianity are terribly misguided. That is not the Christian faith we proclaim and serve. We will be praying for them, as Jesus has instructed us to, in hopes that they come to know the true love and grace that guides our faith.

May YMCA of the Rockies, in all of its diversity and inclusion, be an example of how our country, and the world, may come together in honor and respect of one another. We are “For All,” and we mean it!

Julie Watkins, President/Chief Executive Officer, YMCA of the Rockies

Rev. Greg Bunton – Chaplain, YMCA of the Rockies/Estes Park Center

Rev. Steve Peterson – Chaplain, YMCA of the Rockies/Snow Mountain Ranch

 

To the Editor:

The article by Casey Malon on noxious weeds in our county was a good start to highlight the non-native plant species that are taking over the towns and unincorporated areas of our county. However, the article failed to highlight one of the most insidious of noxious weeds, scentless chamomile (not to be confused with chamomile used in tea). This noxious weed, with its daisy-like flower and fern-like leaves, can be found from Rocky Mountain National Park to Winter Park. It may look like a native flower since I see it growing in flower beds, in yards, in fields, and along roadsides, but it is not. As Malon states, noxious weeds “have been declared by state, local, and federal governments to be undesirable, and their control, containment, and eradication are required by law.” Then how is it that scentless chamomile is flourishing in our county? This noxious weed can easily be removed by hand pulling as it has a shallow root system so there really is no excuse for not controlling it. I hope the Winter Park Times continues to educate the public on noxious weeds and how their eradication will enhance the beauty and economic well-being of our towns and landscapes throughout the county.

Norma Van Nostrand

Granby Colorado