Quite a difference

Dear Editor:

The Aspen mayoral race was mentioned on National Public Radio Sunday. Coverage closed with the reporter noting that, at the conclusion of a debate between the candidates at the home of the late Hunter S. Thompson, Tim Semrau drove away in his high-end automobile while Mick Ireland rode off into the dark on his bicycle.

I suppose that illustrates the stark difference between the candidates quite well, but there is a further illustration concerning Mick Ireland that I feel must be recognized. At a gathering put on for Mick's benefit at a private home last Thursday, Mick related that he was pleased to have support from a broad range of voters in the city of Aspen. By looking about the rooms of the home I could verify Mick's claim that he had support from, among others, 8-to-5 employee types, Realtors, contractors, ski instructors, service workers, people who live in big houses, little houses, affordable housing, seniors (including this writer), retirees (this writer included, again), arts and theater groups, law enforcement - truly support from voters from all walks of life.

There are surely many reasons why Mick draws support from such a varied group of voters but I know the principal reasons why I support Mick. Those reasons certainly include that Mick Ireland is, first and foremost, fair and honest. That he will work hard to put the brakes on runaway development and control construction impacts. That he will work hard to solve the Entrance to Aspen problem. That he will work hard to see that Aspen remains a vital community of year-round residents with an active arts and culture dimension while at the same time working with the vital summer and winter tourism interests of the city of Aspen.

I believe that Mick is a dedicated public servant and the most complete and mature candidate for mayor. I urge you to join me in voting for Mick for mayor.

J.E. DeVilbiss
Aspen City Council member