“Those who make the worst use of their time are the first to complain of its brevity.” ~ Jean de La Bruyère You can say “amen” or “ouch” to that quote. I’ve been chalking up the feeling that time is slipping through my fingers faster and faster to having another[Read More…]
Opinion
LOOSE ENDS: ‘In the know’
Is there ever a time, when calling someone you love a gossip is OK?” I was recently asked. The friend’s inquiry came after I solicited her opinion first when I inadvertently blurted out that g-word to describe a longtime friend. I should have said she was sweet, kind, and in-the-know[Read More…]
EDITOR’S COLUMN – Nothing to see here… Oh look, a squirrel!
“Big Brother isn’t watching. He’s singing and dancing. He’s pulling rabbits out of a hat. Big Brother’s busy holding your attention every moment you’re awake. He’s making sure you’re always distracted.” ~ Chuck Palahniuk, Lullaby Distraction might seem like a modern issue, but it’s just part of being human. John[Read More…]
LETTERS TO THE EDITOR – July 17th, 2025
Thanks to first responders Dear Editor: I want to personally commend the Rio Blanco/Meeker 911 response for ambulances and personnel to our need and request for help Wednesday July 9, 2025 at the Rolling R Ranch in Buford. Your emergency 911 crew showed up timely and exhibited professionalism in retrieving[Read More…]
FROM V.F.W. POST 5843: From stories to solutions: How local veterans can share their experiences to inspire support
In the heart of our communities, veterans carry stories that have the power to inspire and mobilize support from those around them. These men and women, who have proudly served our country, hold experiences that can bridge divides, foster understanding, and drive meaningful action to address the challenges they face[Read More…]
GUEST COLUMN: YouthZone — Impact of federal funding on local programs
We’ve been getting a lot of questions about how some of the recent federal-level executive actions have impacted us at YouthZone. While these conversations are nuanced and complex, they tend to revolve around two distinct topics: the safety and security of our staff and clients, and the financial stability of[Read More…]
GUEST COLUMN: CNCC unveils five-year strategic plan
A year ago, the leadership of the Colorado Community College System, including members of its Board of Trustees, embarked on a statewide listening tour to hear from employees and students across its 13 community colleges. The goal? To understand the needs and expectations of those they serve and incorporate them[Read More…]
EDITOR’S COLUMN – Willful goodness
“For you will certainly carry out God’s purpose, however you act, but it makes a difference to you whether you serve like Judas or like John.” ― C.S. Lewis, The Problem of Pain The human will is one of the most powerful forces at our disposal. We can use our will[Read More…]
LETTERS TO THE EDITOR – July 10th, 2025
Questioning hospital board’s decision Dear Editor: Thank you for printing Paul “Buckshot” Sheridan’s letter to the editor “Taxpayers urged to consider value of seven-person board for hospital district,” in the June 26, 2025 issue of the Rio Blanco Herald Times and thank you for being a platform the past 140[Read More…]
FROM V.F.W. POST 5843: Understanding the purpose of the VFW
As we navigate a rapidly changing world, one constant remains: the unwavering dedication of our nation’s veterans. Today, organizations like the Veterans of Foreign Wars (VFW) are vital not just in honoring that dedication but in bridging generational gaps. With a need to revitalize membership, engaging younger veterans is essential[Read More…]
EDITOR’S COLUMN – From King George III to the eve of the semisesquiquincentennial
“I wish nothing but good. Therefore, everyone who does not agree with me is a traitor and a scoundrel.” ~ King George III Happy 249th birthday, America! I’m having a hard time wrapping my head around the fact that my fond memories of our nation’s 200th birthday are almost 50[Read More…]
LOOSE ENDS: Back in the Day
Western communities, many from their earliest beginnings, celebrated our nation’s Independence Day in their own way, with picnics, music, foot races, buckin’ horses and horse races and food. The annual celebration has always been about flying the flag proudly when they exhibited it both indoor and outdoors. The main modes[Read More…]



