In a recent letter to The Sun, Mr. Shaffer highlights that some of the so-called “hand holders” that are making the issue of offshore drilling center stage, do so without considering the ongoing and obvious.

I was stunned (like the dolphins?) by the unbelievably concussive noise from the bombing range.  

This “wine sipper” almost ducked for cover the first time I heard it. It’s not hard to imagine the effect of this, and sonar, on the dolphins and why they might beach themselves as a result.

Moreover, where is the discussion of the lack of energy awareness that appears to prevail in the area?  Every pool is full, pumps running; one development has a water feature with a substantial electric bill, for nearly no one. Pickups and luxury cars abound. Absolutely no weather stripping on exterior doors, which is unnoticeable in the summer with the air-conditioned air going out, but very noticeable in the cold with the cold air coming in.

We knew that 28 degree weather was good for something.

What Mr. Shaffer may be missing is the immutable power of nature and the damage it can inflict on man (or oil platforms) as opposed to the lesser damage that man can inflict on nature. No one can predict the strength of an earthquake or a hurricane or a tsunami or what lasting damage an oil leak could do to your priceless white beaches.

It is unreasonable to take the chance.

Barb Coddington

Glenwood Springs, Colo.