LETTERS TO THE EDITOR

Dear Bandera Bulletin,

We were a group of artists that came to your beautiful countryside to paint the landscape. It is such a glorious thing to do, to try an represent the creation in the most direct and expressive way possible. We are very conscientious, leaving no mark or litter, and asking permission from some folks, who it seems in some cases have been overrun. It is not always easy, negotiating our access, for the history of strangers and tourists leave tattered trails. For the most part we were successfully admitted, and I want to send my congratulations to people who have allowed our excursions.

There is one thing, though. And it seems it may be a cultural thing, but I feel I must say something about it. At almost every water crossing or dry creek there was found a dead animal, sometimes many. In fact, between Bandera and a more major town we counted 57 dead animals. We can only attribute this to the many roaring pick-up trucks at incredible and dangerous speeds and large tires.

Perhaps it is seen as somehow humorous, but it is difficult to try and record the magnificent environs and then turn and have to behold the utter slaughter of its inhabitants. Surely the Creator may have something to say about this, I for one do not wish to approach the Maker having fecklessly disregarded life. The exalted gates and willful tearing around are signs of a pride that does not dispose well, give me the days of the humble purveyor of care, gentle livestock, and appreciation born of birth and tragedy so relevant to country living. No s, these others.

You have the makings of a truly amazing place and probably a lot more wishing to paint your beautiful surroundings, but, there must be some kind of necessary change to allow it to happen, PEACE.

Yours Sincerely,

John Cobb

Austin, Texas