Don’t pave paradise for a parking lot

I’ve lived south of Jasper Rd. within a mile of N. 109th for 25 years. I walk there with my binoculars handy to enjoy the multitude of birds along this rural, dirt road. In the field, just as I cross Jasper, I begin hearing the Meadow Larks echoing each other. The grasses merge into to wetlands where the Red Wing Blackbirds, Grackles and Yellow Headed Blackbirds perch on top of cattails. Also, Snowy Egrets, White Faced Ibis and a variety of ducks enjoy the small ponds. Ahead of me, a Robin leads me as I hear a Song Sparrow or a Yellowthroat. By the time I reach the bridge, flocks of Tree, Barn and Bank swallows have been chasing the bugs over my head. In the old tree, there is usually some kind of hawk or a Bald eagle. Above, always the Great Blue Herons pass by.

This is a sanctuary to me and my neighbors who live there or close by, like myself. Neighbors walk their dogs or horses or ride a bike or jog because it’s safe from traffic and it is quiet.

As Joni Mitchell sang, “They paved paradise to put up a parking lot.” We just “don’t always know what we’ve got ‘till it’s gone.” Please do not put in a parking lot on N. 109th and ruin our paradise.

— Charla Nicholas, Lafayette

Intergenerational ties are crucial for communities

Because my grandparents live thousands of miles away on a different continent, I developed a unique appreciation for them due to how little we are together. This is why it is so upsetting when I see grandparents and grandparent figures being taken for granted. Close intergenerational connections are clearly very beneficial, and that is why it is important that communities take the initiative to help form and maintain these bonds.

The relationship between grandparents and grandchildren has increasingly gained more attention over the past few years when studying family dynamics and has proven to be beneficial for both parties. Studies mentioned in a 2015 Boston Globe article support that close relationships between grandparents and grandchildren can lead to fewer behavioral and emotional issues in children and adolescents and can decrease depression and increase mental sharpness in older adults.

Both parties are equally important in a close grandparent and grandchild relationship. Grandparents are a valuable support resource for grandchildren. They are a trusted older adult who is willing to listen and has valuable wisdom from life experience to impart. Additionally, grandchildren serve as a crucial link between older generations and modern ideas. This exposure to modern ideas makes the older generation feel important, included and valuable in their families and in a society that isolates this demographic.

A way our community can strengthen intergenerational relationships is by having local schools start a program with local care communities where students and residents can engage in shared activities. Not only does this help facilitate the beneficial bond between generations but it also gives the opportunity for those without grandparents or grandchildren to do so as well. Unfortunately too many people, young and old, battle with mental health. This is why it is crucial to maintain strong intergenerational relationships in order to receive the benefits.

— Bianca Lazarus, Boulder