Democracy requires participation
Dear Editor,
We are privileged to live in America where we enjoy the benefits of a democratic society. How blessed we all are! However, with privilege and blessing comes responsibility and effort. We have a representative government. A government that is “of the people, by the people, and for the people.” To deserve a true and strong democracy, PEOPLE MUST PARTICIPATE in our electoral process. At our local level, responsibility begins with the Rio Blanco County Precinct Caucus, Assembly and Convention. If you are a registered Democrat or Republican in Rio Blanco County, please attend your county caucus. It is your chance to choose candidates who will be on your ballot. You have a voice! Do not miss out. Our rights, our economy, our children’s education, our water and way of life – all demand your participation.
RBC Democrat Party Precinct Caucus, Assembly, & Convention: March 9, Saturday, 10:00 am -12:00 pm
Precinct 1, 2, 3, 4, & 5: Meeker Public Library, 490 Main St.
RBC Republican Party Precinct Caucus: March 7, Thursday, 7:00 pm
Precinct 1, 2: Rangely Town Hall
Precinct 3, 4: County Extension Office 4-H Building, and Exhibit Hall, Meeker, 779 Sulphur Creek Road
Precinct 5: Rock School, 23406 County Road 5, Rifle
RBC Republican Party Assembly: March 23, Saturday, 10:00 am
CNCC Colorado Room, 500 Kennedy Dr., Rangely, CO 81648
Debra Frazier
Meeker
Scritchfield announces commissioner candidacy
Dear Editor,
I am excited to announce my candidacy for Rio Blanco County Commissioner, District 3. My name is Callie (Hendrickson) Scritchfield. Growing up on our family-owned cow/calf ranch near Uravan, Colorado, my roots run deep in rural communities and agriculture.
Having graduated from Nucla High School, just 30 miles south of the ranch, and actively participated in 4-H in Grand Junction, 70 miles to the north, I understand the values and needs of our rural communities. I firmly believe that rural communities are the backbone of our country, and Rio Blanco County stands as one of the finest examples of this.
I have worked for the taxpayers of Rio Blanco County (RBC) for the past 13 years as the Executive Director for the White River and Douglas Creek Conservation Districts. I have made RBC my home because I enjoy and respect the hardworking people in northwest Colorado. I want to serve and make a difference for the people in this county.
There are a lot of forces working against rural communities, particularly those on the Western Slope of Colorado. It is imperative that the citizens of Rio Blanco County come together, united, to address these challenges. I firmly believe that by standing together, we can overcome any obstacle that comes our way.
I will use my experience of facilitation, coordination and policy development to help develop a vision for our county so we can proactively guide our future rather than constantly being on the defense.
I reject the false narrative that we must choose between a healthy economy and a healthy environment. We can responsibly extract oil and gas, graze livestock on public lands, manage wildlife, promote recreational activities, and embrace renewable energy, all while safeguarding our environment.
My background in testifying on natural resource issues at regional, state and federal levels equips me to effectively advocate for the interests of our rural community. I will fiercely advocate for policies that promote the wise use of our resources.
If elected as your next Rio Blanco County Commissioner, I will listen to and work collaboratively with members of our community. I am committed to opposing government overreach, defending private property rights, and fostering an economically prosperous future for Rio Blanco County.
I respectfully ask for your support and your vote. Together, we can build a brighter future for Rio Blanco County.
Callie Scritchfield
County Commissioner District 3 Candidate
Meeker
