I find it rude one would personally attack J. Paul Brown for his patriotic shirt he displayed proudly at the Fourth of July parade.

J. Paul Brown is a selfless public servant. He has sacrificed his heart and soul for his fellow constituents. J. Paul has strong support from all parties across many counties, and he has proved he is the leader best representing Southwest Colorado based on his accomplishments, his leadership and his life experiences.

On another note, I take offense by the words about Rob Thomas, the fisherman who caught the 28.5-inch rainbow trout in the Animas River. I had the privilege to meet Rob the day of the catch, in Durango Muffler’s parking lot. Rob wheeled over to me with the famous fish in a plastic bag, very little remnants of ice present. He asked if I could make use of the fish. He said he wanted to release the fish but unfortunately it was dead when he finally landed the fish on shore. Happily I did; the fish fed my husband and me dinner for three nights. I am still a little shocked with the strange encounter.

In closing, perhaps we should listen and understand the importance of compassion. We do all have our own story.

Tonya Edwards-McKnight

Durango