Dear Editor,

As a resident of a cul-de-sac directly across the street from Chipeta Park, admittedly impacted by events that happen there, I am writing to express my gratitude and enthusiasm at the first of the six-planned musical events on various Saturdays this summer. It was pure joy to sit in the park listening to two very strong performances (and GOOD bands are important), recognizing so many local friends and neighbors doing the same—everyone just smiling, hugging friends, and quietly enjoying the event.

Of the nine homes in my neighborhood I saw the residents of four directly in the park at the event, the residents of another one or two sat outside their homes listening, one home is currently vacant, and I know that one set of residents who do not like this sort of thing did leave the area during the event. I respect everyone’s right to their preferences, but I would say that the majority of us were really enjoying the event, and it was obvious that many drove in from outer neighborhoods and a few from Gilpin County to see the concert, too.

I appreciated that the event was free and mainly geared toward locals and those who happened to be visiting at the time. It really livened up our town. Nederland has always been a town with deep ties to music, and I am glad to see and hear more music happening again.

Regarding impact, between the hours of sound checks and the concert itself, it does present pretty much a full day of sound impacting town neighborhoods. With that in mind, I think keeping the numbers of concerts throughout the summer/ fall to 6 - 8 is appropriate. It would be too much if there were more. But, again, I just wanted to thank you for allowing and promoting both music and visual arts events in Nederland. They are fun for most residents and I believe they are a good and appropriate draw for a small number of additional visitors who will spend money in our town. I spoke with one business owner after the event who said his business was great the whole day of the concert.

One small housekeeping note. I know it is no one’s “job” to pick up the park grounds after irresponsible dog owners who do not clean up their dog poop, but there was an unpleasant pile close to where we sat and we kept having to point it out to people walking by so they would not step in it. Maybe pay a few teenagers to do a cleanup/ sweep of the grassy area prior to events? Anyway, great job!

Steve & Kristin Conrad

Nederland