Today's Opinions

Recently, the long-rumored demise of the Rocky Mountain News took another step toward reality. Announcing the paper is up for sale, the E.W. Scripps Co. signaled what may be the end an institution that has been part of Colorado for nearly 150 years.

The news hit me harder than I expected. For all the other sources of information out there, and there are many, I just can’t imagine life without the Rocky. It’s been a part of my day since I learned to read.

As we enter 2009, all eyes are focused on the economy. Families and businesses are looking for ways to save money and to be more efficient in these challenging days.

During these times it is important for our state leaders, as well, to demonstrate the prudent leadership that reflects our priorities. One of the ways of doing this is to limit the 2009 Legislative session to 90 days.

Several years ago, I heard former Governor Dick Lamm say that the biggest policy challenge of the 21st Century would be sustainability. At the time, I thought he was speaking primarily about environmental issues, but recent events suggest the word encompasses even more than that.

Of course, environmental sustainability remains a significant issue. As third-world countries catch up to industrialized nations, the problems connected with resource consumption and pollution will continue to grow.