We applaud the recent conversations about wilderness designation and would like to contribute a sentiment that appears to be missing in the dialogue.

Wilderness is a concept that, at its very heart, is not about the primacy of human interests and activities. Recreation, tourism, watershed protection, and increasing wildlife populations are all powerful incentives to protect the last of our world’s existing wilderness areas.

However, the benefits of wilderness lie beyond what is tangible in the minds or pocketbooks of people. Please consider wilderness apart from the wants of people. Wilderness designation is ultimately a self-less act — a consideration given to solitude, nature, and to something larger than ourselves.

Hiroshima passage

Today, Aug. 6, is the 63rd anniversary of the bombing of Hiroshima. On this day people around the world remember the first use of weapons of mass destruction.

There are vigils in many countries. Some people make paper cranes, an international symbol of peace, and read the story of Sadako and the Thousand Paper Cranes. Others draw chalk shadows on streets and sidewalks, remembering the human shadows burnt into the streets of Hiroshima and Nagasaki. People see the chalk outlines and, thinking of the horror of nuclear weapons, determine to never again cast nuclear shadows on the earth.

Please take a moment today to remember those who were killed 63 years ago.

Kudos

I just loved Kirby Neumann-Rea’s article “In The Barns” in the July 30 paper. I am proud to say that Ellie is my granddaughter. Both her mother, Barb Smith, and I spent our times in the barn during our 4-H years. 4-H is truly a wonderful experience for anyone. Ellie can be proud to be a fourth-generation 4-H’er.

Bag solution

In regard to the debate over charging for paper and plastic bags, my husband has the solution: Charge for them but then pay the same amount upon their return — the very same system we Oregonians began for cans and bottles. Not only is it fair, I guarantee litter will be reduced 100 percent.

Share the road

Chief Bruce Ludwig:

Thank you very much for stating in black and white (“Share the road,” July 19) what has been needed to be said for a long time!