“What you leave behind is not what is engraved in stone monuments, but what is woven into the lives of others.” ~ Pericles (sorta)* When my brother died, one of my coping mechanisms (after 1. red wine and 2. blowing out the speakers in my minivan listening to very angry[Read More…]
Opinion
LETTERS TO THE EDITOR – August 6th, 2026
Climate reflections Dear Editor: Please permit an old guy some reflections. The valley is filled with wildfire smoke. Again. It’s another of those days when you have to decide whether it’s safe to breathe. I elected to stay indoors and complain. It’s been forty-five years since James Hansen and his[Read More…]
EDITOR’S COLUMN – Contradictions
“Life zips by and next thing you know, you’re laying in a hospital bed.” ~ Grandpa Sam I spent the last few days in St. Mary’s Hospital with my grandfather. In trying to maintain my sanity, I wrote quite a bit. I’m sharing some of those reflections here this week.[Read More…]
LETTER TO THE EDITOR – July 30th, 2026
Appreciation for firefighters Dear Editor: We want to offer our sincere appreciation for the rapid response to a lightning-initiated fire at the Villa Ranch on Saturday, July 25th. The quick actions of our neighbor Pat Mares, Meeker Fire and Rescue, US Wildland Fire Service South Zone (formerly BLM) and the[Read More…]
EDITOR’S COLUMN – First rodeos
“Courage is being scared to death, and saddling up anyway.” ~ John Wayne Hoo boy, y’all. I keep saying I knew what I was getting myself into, and I thought, truly, that I did. I’ve been in and out of the newspaper office since I was 12 years old! Apparently,[Read More…]
LETTERS TO THE EDITOR – July 23rd, 2026
Griffin announces assessor candidacy Dear Editor: I am excited to announce my candidacy for Rio Blanco County Assessor. Having recently moved back to Rio Blanco County earlier this year, I am grateful to once again call this wonderful community home. As a former resident, returning home has reminded me just[Read More…]
LOOSE ENDS: Where everybody knows your name
Special to the HT MEEKER | We live in a town where the feeling generated by the place itself seems right for longtime residents and newcomers alike. Some residents did not necessarily choose to live here, but may feel a strong allegiance to their family history in the area. Others[Read More…]
VINE & VITTLES: More than just a drink
Special to the HT MEEKER | If you’ve visited my store, you’ve probably noticed that I place a strong emphasis on our non-alcoholic selection. Beyond the changing trends, my passion for non-alcoholic beverages is personal. Many of the people I love and care about don’t drink, and through this business[Read More…]
RBC HISTORICAL SOCIETY: When community shows up, history comes alive
By TERESIA R. RUCKMAN-REED | Special to the HT The White River Museum and the Rio Blanco County Historical Society extend our thanks to the volunteers, visitors, docents, sponsors, board members, staff, and friends who helped make the Smithsonian Traveling Exhibit “AMERICANS” such a meaningful success in Meeker. Its timing[Read More…]
HISTORY LESSONS: Meeker’s sewer system
By ED PECK | Special to the HT MEEKER | I remember wood outhouses, complete with crescent moon cutouts and spinning wooden latches. Occasionally, when the pit filled up, a new hole would be dug, the outhouse moved, and a new path worn from the house. I won’t go into[Read More…]
MEEKER CHAMBER UPDATE: Plenty of activity in June and July
By SARA STEPHENSON | Special to the HT MEEKER | “Summer has been in full swing in Meeker, and the Chamber has been busy welcoming visitors, supporting local businesses, and coordinating several of our community’s favorite summer traditions. The Chamber and Visitor Center has remained busy throughout June and July,[Read More…]
Editor’s Column: Is this thing on?
“Never tell me the odds!” ~ Han Solo, Star Wars: Episode V – The Empire Strikes Back By CAITLIN WALKER | [email protected] If you know me, you know I am good at a few things, but my true specialty is making it awkward. So this week, we’re going to jump[Read More…]
