Losing friends or making friends based on their political beliefs is unfortunately quite common these days. In fact disagreeing with someone will almost certainly sever that relationship and have you labeled as a “negative” person. This was by far the most talked about topic at our Gazette booth at RidgeFest and The Edgewater Music Festival.
When you hang a banner that says “I Will Talk To Anyone About Anything” you better be prepared for some topics that span the spectrum. Last year the 2 most talked about topics were Jesus Christ and Donald Trump. Not so much this year. The 2 most common topics were the numerous construction sites throughout the city and the crawling traffic caused by these projects (hence our updates on construction projects in this issue) and other most talked about topic was the constant labeling of people as “negative” as soon as you disagree with their opinion.
Yes, it’s true, we have many issues and topics debated in person or on social media here in Wheat Ridge. From waste hauling and traffic to housing and development projects. Of course the looming ones are elections, abortions, taxes and the list goes on. It used to be fun and educational to argue your point and learn about the other side. Many people spoke to me at RidgeFest about the fact that they couldn’t share their opinion with their friends or family, city officials or even in a chatroom online.
I’m certainly not advocating for hanging out with a person that doesn’t believe you have a right to exist because of whatever factor, but it should be ok to disagree with what the city decides in a certain matter without being defined as “negative”. I don’t agree with everything our Mayor speaks about but I think he’s doing an amazing job. One doesn’t always agree with their spouse but it does mean they automatically get a divorce.
Of course not everyone was so serious and simply wanted to chat about sports, the state of education in Jeffco. Crime and restaurants, ADU’s and short term rentals and the list goes on.
I’m looking forward to the Carnation Festival this year. The Gazette will have a booth again and you are invited to come and talk to us about anything that’s on your mind. I am especially proud of this year’s festival since I was voted and named Grand Marshal. This is such an honor for me. The only sad part about it is that I will not be announcing the parade Saturday morning but will actually be at the front of the parade.
In case you needed a reminder…. We are halfway through the summer. The city has amazing activities planned out. Check out our schedule of events, and as always, thanks for reading.
