Finger: It could have been worse

Even though I lost my home of 36 years on Tuesday, I want to thank the Woody Creek and Aspen Fire Department and all volunteers. With their quick response, they were able to save my neighbors home.
I apologize to all those workers who were blocked from using the Smith Way/McClain Flats morning “short cut” to Aspen. Hopefully, your clients and bosses were understanding.
As I walked into Walmart at the end of my work day to go get a brand new toothbrush and some socks, I was warmly greeted by the nice lady who handed me a cart. Three steps later, the intercom announcement greeted all shoppers and reminded us that October is fire awareness month, so check your homes. Was I being PUNKED, perhaps? All I could do was laugh and carry on tracking down my toothbrush.
Now, as I use my new toothbrush to brighten my smile, I am reminded how lucky I am, as it could have been worse — all I lost was stuff.
Paul Finger
Aspen
Aspen airport sees more delays, cancellations in wake of new wind-reporting policy
A change from instantaneous wind-speed reporting to average wind-speed reporting aligned with a higher rate of flight delays, diversions, and cancellations this summer at the Aspen/Pitkin County Airport.