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Show Page A7 (The tTtmrs-3tidrpmbr- Thursday, February 15, 2001 nt Climbers are not an irresponsible lot Letters to the Editor Dear Editor, a.-- r.uuvurate The Yourrvport on Lzz B mes.L-.uonly people ho did LTR and it scut- breathing w ere the climbers who were or. the scone. We did rescue hreathng for 12 an hour until her pulse stopjied and then we did CPR for over an hour, until we reai'he.l the ground 1 don't know the last names of the other chnitiers Bat their first names were Noah. Brandon, Max and Dave. Noah and Brandon were both Emergency Medical Technicians and I have m Wilderness First Responder The Search and Rescue folks were wonder - Lighting ordinance benefits everyone Dear Editor, Websites ere popping up devoted to a new breed of tourism called They offer trips worldw ide to what they call the greatest skies on earth. Grand County is in a unique isolated situation that is able to encourage this yet untapped burgeoning market, but only if we as a community are willing to support a nighttime environment that emphasizes the magnificence of the natural star-scapEvery time a community takes steps to distinguish themselves from the norm, they increase the value of their community at every level. It is the awesome beauty and pristine quality of nature that is our most valuable economic resource. Good business is based on wise fiscal investments in a product that will maintain its value over the long haul. People come here to visit the natural wonders w e are surrounded by, not simply to spend a few nights in a motel. And the wonders continue even after the sun is down. I xx'al businesses can choose to view the proposed light ordinance as an evolution of aesthetic appeal to a more sophisticated clientele, or as a financial pain in the ass. A wise financial investment now will save you money in reduced energy costs down the line, while enhancing the attractiveness of our community. Other communities throughout the West understand the benefits of this type of thinking. Several have passed light ordinances based on the same information our county and city have taken the time to gather and disseminate for us. Seeing the sound fiscal sense of such ordinances, Ketehum, Idaho rushed to comply with their light ordinance in two years. Moab City and Grand County are compliance clause. considering a seven-yea- r Unlike many of the other issues that engage our community, the proposed light ordinance is one that bensituation for us. efits everyone. It is truly a win-wi- n Designing lighting that enhances economic gain, provides visual security, respects private property while preserving the clarity of the spectacular firmament that surrounds and engulfs us, will only emphasize the quality of our natural environment and all of life in Grand County. Gratefully yours, Donald KiiTmeyer Moab e. Reader enjoys comments about jazz music Dear Editor, Thank you Sam for the editorial on the Burns senes. i have read your paper for many years and find this prompts me to write. I have been hiking in Arches once or twice a year since 1965 and follow the jazz scene sort of on the side. It is always a pleasure to meet someone who understands the importance of jazz in the United States. I found most of Bums episodes, particularly the early ones, to be well done and a real contribution. I was a little disappointed in the lack of treatment of the evolution of jazz theory as a music subject of some technical importance in the 1930s and 1940s. All the major piano that was left out. Nat Cole was sort of an insider's pianist and was just as important as Bud Powell. Incidentally, Nat Cole does show up as a pianist on the Bums DVD version in the que cards of performers. The nearly mention of Bill Evans is strange as he was undoubtedly the most accomplished technician of the 1950s and 60s. However, Bums seems to have understood the history quite well in spite of the omissions. I am not a musician and did not study music from the point of view of a musician untii I was almost to retirement age. Better late than never. Well, if you start gigging around town and get up a jazz quartet or something, put it in the paper so my entourage and I can go non-existe- nt figures of that period were not well covered, in particular the omission of Nat Cole as a pianist (before his singing era). Nat Cole was a major influence on Oscar Peterson and others in that early WWII time, and all participate in community, other than right here in Castle Valley. know I join many others in wanting to extend our Ron for his dedication and service over the should He be proud of his accomplishments, both years. within the church community and the Castle Valley community at large. Ron has consistently provided an open door, an open ear and an open heart to the people of Castle Valley. He has provided guidance in looking after the less fortunate families in the valley - regardless of their religious affiliation. Thank you Ron and Pat for helping to make Castle Valley the unique and wonderful place that it is. I gratitude to much-neede- d pot-luck- s, fund-raise- - Theresa -- Carey-Clizer-Cast- le Valley PS. the bus driver for our children a thankless job in many respects. I know that despite the challenges of driving this diverse bunch of intelligent and children, Ron gets them home safe and sound each day. The parents of Castle Valley know that their children are safe in Ron's care as he is an excellent bus driver one of the best in the county, I hear. high-spirite- Ron is also d County must not change zoning law for Cloudrock Editor: Last week, developer Michael Liss descended briefly from his New York skyscraper to submit the Johnsons Preliminary Plat at the County Planning Office. Notably absent from the proposal was the word Cloudrock." Liss and his cronies at SITLA cleverly eliminated the word that has become a lightning rod for local rage and frustration, and a public relations nightmare in the press. Instead of an internationally recognized trademark for desert luxury, Cloudrock is an emblem for the suspicious partnership between big corporate money and a rogue bureaucracy aa they conspire to bully an independent Western town. But do not be fooled by the backpedaling. The Cloudrock proposal remains a threat to the rural integrity of this town. Citizens, planning commissioners and council members should be alerted to its most glaring Up-on-T- offenses. 1. Cloudrock is requesting a special exception to the current zoning law, which demands an average of 600 square feet per room for a wilderness lodge. Liss claims that to compete with hotels in Hawaii, West Indies and 0 Morocco, whose rooms cost per night, he must increase average room size to 1,000 square feet. But the purpose of zoning ordinances is to ensure community control over expansion, not to bolster the profits of investors. If Cloudrocks needs are incompatible with this countys zoning, it should be built elsewhere. Liss implies that Cloudrock deserves this exception because it qualifies for a density bonus. This argument has no merit. If he wishes to claim his legal bonus, fine. BUT THE COUNTY MUST NOTALLOW CLOUDROCK $500-$150- te TO BREAK EXISTING ZONING LAWS. It would set poor precedent and invite a lawsuit from the next carpetbagger who comes along hitching a horse to a and calling it a wilderness lodge." 2. Cloudrock proposes a private lane to its proproad has been a Class erty. But the Johnsons B Grand County road since 1972, and is the only to a San Juan County road on the high part of the mesa. Before exceptions are made, the county must assert its ownership of this road and ensure that public access not be blocked. Other concerns include: Cloudrock proposes to flush the waste of 150 homes, 110 condos, and 225 hotel rooms to Moab Citys sewage plant. Who will foot the bill for expanding the Ritz-Carlto- n right-of-wa- y plant? Cloudrock responded to a call for affordable housing with 55 employee- - housing rooms within the lodge. Employee rentals are not the same as affordable homes that families can buy. The public must obtain a recreational use permit to hike, bike and ride horses on the mesa. How much will it cost, and how difficult will it be to obtain? Until these issues are resolved, the county should not approve the Cloudrock Preliminary Plat. Under no circumstances should it allow the special exception to the room-siz- e limit, nor agree to vacate a public road for a private developer. The citizens of this county now look to our elected and appointed officials to uphold the zoning law and protect the interests of the community. Mark Sundeen Moab Lighting ordinance not supported by the majority Dear Sam: Much has been written and said about most of the people in Moab supporting the proposed lighting ordinance. Personally, I feel that it is only the majority of the people attending the meetings. Most people who oppose this intrusion on our rights and freedoms are too busy trying to make a living and pay these exorbitant taxes to sit through these meetings and watch the propagandists slide shows. If the intent is to improve the image of the valley, I feel we are taking a step backward. Obviously, a professionally made, back-li- t sign is more attractive and requires d less energy than a crudely done, sign with a couple of incandescent light bulbs shining down on it. Backlighted signs are one of the best inventions since hot and cold running water and the shower head. Speaking of showers, if you are truly intent on trampling on our rights and freedoms, perhaps you could amend the ordinance pertaining to public meetings and require people to bathe before coming to these crowded meetings in such small cramped rooms. If these people are truly serious about wanting to live in the dark, I would suggest that there is a lot of available land outside the valley, some of which is beyond the reach of the power lines. If they should desire to move, Im sure some money could be raised to help with their relocation expenses. Like most communities, we did very well for many hand-painte- StJlv Logall Editor'll note: Information about tht Lzz Burn uui dc;it u ui not idrd b Son Juan Counts and tht Sational I urk Srri ne On Two Wheels A pedaling periodical of bicde-relate- news and views d By Ron Georg Everyone whos anyone Sure. Moab has hike parties Weve got the Fat Tire Fest, with all its happy tourists, wevs got house parties, especially around Halloween and New Years, and of course weve got the Moab Cyclery trials spectacles who could forget Ryon's flaming oike leap from the roof? Still, only one party can earn the official On Two Wheels award for Best Party Revolving around Cycles. And if you think the award sounds dizzy, you should see some of the folks wandering the dance floor after a few hours of rhythm from Get a Job Bob. If you hadn't already guessed, the event is the Sixth Annual Chile Fest, Chile Pepper Bike Shop's anniversary celebration on Feb. 17. Starting with a morning bike ride, the event provides an entue day's fun, a day which can easily linger into the next morning The fest begins at 9 a m when the first batch of riders will meet at the lower Gemini 8ridges parking lot to shuttle up to the tiailhead for Little Canyon Rim, a fan ty advanced nde. At 1 1 a m. the next batch of riders will gather for the Gemini Bridges nde, which is a mellow cruise. With the two options there's a ride for everyone and everyone is welcome. This is a totally open g' oup ride, and the shuttles are free. This is a perfect opportunity tor locals whove always wanted to try a ride on Gemini to get out there After folks finish up their rides, and get home for a shower, riders will regroup at City Park at 4 30 p.m. for a Critical Mass ride through town Unlike other Mass rides, which don t really have a final destination this one conclude at Chile Pepper where the fine Folks from Bariditos w.ll be catering the party Anyone who's spent a day m ttie outdoors with friends knows ttie party afterward is that much richer, and ttie Chile Fest is a day n the outdoors with about a hundred friends. What makes ttie party all ttie more special is the lack ot commercial interest, this is an annual reminder that what we've got fiere, our careers and our hobbies, our whole lifestyle, is worth celebrating Riders who can't got to the Gemini Parking area should contact Cnile Pepper, 259'4688, kx carpool information You can reacn me with comments or information regarding this or email me at column a! 259-305will ontwowheelslasal.net From the Mayor's Office Sincerely, Doug Travers, San Antonio, Thxas non-LD- S town meetings, weddings, funercommunity als, special events, classes, first aidcommunity disaster preparation, parties for the children of the community, for valley residents in need, and more. plays, I know of no other community where believers and nonbelievers alike freely join together on a regular basis to Lizzy hear. Thanks to Castle Valley resident for dedication and service Dear Editor: I have been meaning to sit down and write; it has taken me a while but it has been on my mind. As a member of the community of Castle thank you Valley, I would like to extend a very heart-fel- t to Ron Drake for all his hard work and service to the community of Castle Valley. Ron served as president of the Castle Valley Branch of the LDS Church. He was recently released from this service, giving him a break. Ron served for over ten years with the help and support of his wife Pat, quite a bit longer than most branch presidents serve in this position. During that time he was instrumental in opening the church to alike have the community. Mormons and differin church to at many joined together participate ent community building activities, including monthly ful and otnicuslv '.rn helpful, hut thee null carried the litter and provided 02 I JUsl wanted Kople to know that chmhirs are not an irresponsible lot who just expect SAR (oople to pnk up the pieces when we screw up Main of us have medical training and rescue skills years following the old adage, If it aint broke, dont fix it. We now seem to be moving toward If it aint broke, fix it til it is. Of course, there is an economic benefit to be gained by local governments from these frivolous ordinances. They provide a perfect excuse for raising taxes to hire more attorneys, planners, code enforcement officers, etc. Just what we need in this community. Thank you, Ray Klepzig Moab Letters to the editor policy The T welcomes opinions from its readers concerning any subject pertinent to Southeastern Utah. Letters should be to the point and must include the writer's name, address and telephone number. Let.ers may not be used to replace advertisements, or to list and thank sponsors or participants to a particular event Letters to the editor win be not be accepted from any candidate who has filed tor political office or from anyone writing in support of a filed candidate. Anything unsigned, of a libelous nature, or containing defamatory statements will not be considered tor publication. AM letters must be typed or legibly written, and be 400 words or less. Letters are subject to editing. Mail to Tetter to the Editor," PO. Box 129, Moab, Utah, 84532. Deadline is Monday, 5 p.m. Letters may also be sent via to editoremoabtimes.com. TThe editor may not accept letters from persons who write more frequently than once every four weeks. by Moab Mayor Karla Hancock This has been a busy past several weeks, since my last column. It was pretty exciting to be up at the Gallivan Center when they announced the route for the Olympic Torch next February. At the announcement celebration, Chamber Director Julie Mueller, Chamber President Saina and held up posters which Saina had made, with a I photo of Delicate Arch on them. One said Moab "Were getting ready!, almost another said Moab-Wer- e ready!" and the one they had me will be ready!" wave was Moab-W- e Lots of people stopped us and told us what a great place Moab was, and many mentioned that they would be coming to Moab to escape the crowds during the Olympics. There were several families who said they love to come here for the really is an honor to be selected the first torch stop in Utah. believe the Olympics will be a very active time for our community, and it is great to see the businesses working together so enthusiastically with It for I the Moab, Utah Gold 2002. I also attended the Atlas Stakeholders meeting, which was quite informative. There were representatives from all the agencies involved (which is the purpose of the Stakeholders' Group) and we heard reports from the Trustee, PricewaterhouseCoopers, the NRC, DOE, and Park Service and Fish and Wildlife representatives. County Council Chairman Kim Schappert told the group she was concerned about the increase in soil blowing off the pile as a result cf the configuration work that was done. The Department of Energy representatives there expressed their concern as well and asked that PwC, who is doing the current work, put a surfactant on the surface of the ex- posed soil. While up at the Capitol on Local Officials Day at the Legislature, I ran into Jim Anderson who is a consultant for the Christmas Box House Foundation. Mr. Anderson was down in Moab several times during the remodeling of the old group home into a children's shelter, and he was an important participant in the ribboncutting for the Christmas Box House held in October 1 998. When I talked to him the other day, he told me how pleased the foundation is with the success of the Christmas Box House shelter in Moab. It has been even more successful than they had anticipated at this point. It's nice to hear compliments about our community and those who are so dedicated to helping others. Most people have probably noticed that crews are busy with crack seal projects on the east side of town. Brent Williams, public works director, says they will be working on just one part of the street at a time, and that access shouldnt be difficult. He does ask lesidents to drive carefully in the areas where the work is being performed. The City Police Department is now issuing citations to those who fail to stop at the new stop sign at of Kane Creek Blvd and 5th West. It takes a while to program oneself to think about that change' Chief NaVarre is still receiving reports about speeders on 5th West Please slow down, and watch out for children at play and adults taking their daily walk, especially south ot Williams Way, where the road is much narrower. the corner New City Planner Robert Hugie has been spending a lot of time clarifying and revising the proposed light ordinance. He addressed the Moab Lodging Association on Feb 7 and answered questions from business owners. As usual, there are lots of rumors flying about the negative impact business owners believe the ordinance will have. The ordinance was sent to the Planning Commission for a second reading last week, and is stiil a ways from being passed. personally have received many more letters in support of the ordinance than in opposition, but those opposed seem very concerned about its effect on them. Unfortunately, scarcely any business owners came to the Night Sky Seminar" held several months ago. so are really not informed about the pros and cons. think Robert is doing a great job of explaining it to those who are taking the trouble to come in with questions, and urge others to stop by and visit with him I I I Again, you can reach me with your questions or complaints at 259-512115 West 200 South, or at moab state ut us mayor , Castle Valley Comments by Ron Drake A Castle Valley man escaped serious injury Monday morning, Feb. 12 when his Isuzu Trooper went out of control and crashed on the river road at about 9 a.m. He is not sure what happened but Loris Williams was traveling eastbound with his load of mail for Castle Valley residents when his vehicle began skidding down the road and eventually tipped over on the driver's side. He said he was amazed that he was able to keep the car mostly in his own lane of travel while he was skidding out of control down the road. A lady who was at the scene of the accident took Loris to Allen Memorial Hospital where he was treated and released later that morning. They took but found no broken bones but has a lot of bruises and pulled muscles and is very sore everywhere." Diana Vaughn, who occasionally substitutes for Loris went to the mailboxes that morning to mail some letters when she heard of the accident. She continued on to the Moab Post Office to offer her assistance By the time she got there, the postmaster had already been to the scene of the accident and collected the load of mail. Diana said the load had to be before she could return to Castle Valley and distribute the mail. She said everyone was so good about the mail and someone had put a sign out advising of the late delivery The Moab postal officials praised the people in Castle Valley for their understanding, she said. was more than happy to help, it was one of those unfortunate things," Diana concluded. In spite of his extreme soreness, Lons was going to be back the next day to deliver the mail but Diana said she would plant a footprint on his fanny" if he tried. That was enough to convince Loris to take a couple of days off. the fire engines much quicker and easier The next meeting will be Tuesday. Feb. 27 at the fire station Everyone is invited to come and become trained and familiar with the expanding arsenal of equipment I Castle Valley Fire Chief is encouraging anyone who would like to attend the twice a month fire meetings at the tire station. They are held the second and fourth Tuesdays every month beginning at 7 p m. Every training session consists of classroom lessons and hands-o- n training with the department, s ever increasing supply of fire fighting apparatus The officers of the department are currently looking at purchasing a new piece of equipment that will allow firefighters to draft water from pools, creeks and ponds into Speaking of the fire department, it was twenty years ago this week that tht' Grand County Commission created the Castle Valley Fire Protection District Ttie commissioners appointed three members to ttie board of tmstees for the district They were Al Bncker, Elaine McGann and Bill Boukden Two LDS Church missionaries returned home 20 years ago after serving two years abroad Randy Stuck) and Gregg Stucki reported to the local congregation about their activities in Bangkok, Thailand and Vera Cruz, Mexico respectively A board of adjustments was selected 15 years ago by the town council. They included Bill Hedden, Ann McDonald, Sam Welch, Ron Drake and Roger Lowry Valli Smouse was appointed to be the town treasurer as councilwoman Saxon Sharpe, the former treasurer was too busy with duties as chairman of the planning committee |