Government grants, “free money,” is easily handed out if only the beneficial entity meets the criteria, and qualifications of the established format. The grant seekers focus on making everything compatible with the rules and regulations so they can get this free money to reach their goals much faster in this “me-too” and “right-now” society. Gone is the mentality to work hard to achieve the dreams and goals and, unwelcome in my mind, is the mindset of instant gratification at all cost.

Grantees play right into the hands of socialistic design, by taking the bait. It works so well for government. Once the money is received, work begins and government agents are there to be sure that all those rules and regulations are followed, with structured controls in place. Failing to comply means the free money is withdrawn and the project goes belly up, the community forever altered. What I think most people don't realize is that this is part of the big picture, to make us all dependent on government to make everything all right, just like Mama said it would be.

I'm concerned that Park County and America is getting in tight with Obama and his ilk way too easily without seeming to know the consequences. Get that school built in the same tight little spot where it will outgrow its allotted space once again, in my lifetime. It is not OK that government has been the deciding influence in this matter.

Creating the South Park National Heritage Area is again taking the bait. The government will now have fingers in every aspect of our private lives and property rights. The plan is to have voters favor Big Government over the American Dream achieved with good honest, sweaty hard work. Living within our means always, is the key.