Review gives reasons for happiness living in county

Editor:

After reading the story "The Year in Review" in The News-Times" (Dec. 29), I better understand just why I am so happy living in Columbia County.

I was so impressed with all the accomplishments of our leaders and our residents, young and old. I have lived in Evans for six years and have witnessed the rapid growth to our town while, somehow, maintaining its neighborhood atmosphere for me.

I was especially pleased to see that the Columbia County commissioners have officially agreed to purchase the land adjacent to Doctors Hospital with plans to preserve it as a community park. I pass that open green field every day and am always pleased to see the flurry of activites -- from flying kites to team sports to community gatherings. It always reminds me of a big backyard for the "neighborhood" of Columbia County. It would be so easy for our leaders to lose sight of the value to the community of a simple green field in the center of town. I thank them for their attention to preserving and promoting a warm, friendly and active "neighborhood" while pursuing visions of growth and expansion.

A commission that remembers to guide and lead the development of the community with a real understanding of what the community truly is, its people, is a blessing for which I am very grateful.

Elizabeth Claypool

Evans