Building bridges in Silver Springs/Ranch Place

Published in the Park Record on November 21-23, 2007, Page A-19
Dear Editor:
I have just returned from caring for my suddenly seriously ill mom...I have been gone for almost three weeks...I returned this week to get some desperately needed sleep, get love from my family and friends, and to decompress and regroup before going back to continue the care that my family needs...

Prior to my family commitment, my husband and I, as well as our neighbors, suffered the insult of having been accused of trepassing onto Ranch Place property. The bridge that existed behind our home for over 20 years was removed by overzealous homeowner association "leaders" who felt that the access to the public trail system by "non-residents" was dangerous. When the current trails freeze the Silver Springs and Ranch Place residents are continuing to use them without the safe bridges, there will be increased potential for serious injuries not only to people, but to the dogs that we all have as companions. Waterways, that previously had safe bridge overpasses, now no longer are safely crossable. If Ranch Place was previously concerned about liability, I think the time to rethink this ridiculous decision is NOW.

When I came home the first thing I did after hugging my husband and children was to walk out my back door and wonder at the amazing place that I live in. I walked thru the back gate as I have done for years and had to jump the creek to walk my dog on the public trail behind my home, all because of some stupid paranoia. There are so many more important things in life. We must embrace the day, live it to the fullest, wave to a neighbor, and pet the dog.

I'm rebuilding my bridge. Every nail that I hammer will give me hope knowing that I can walk out my back door as I have always done, walk on the trail, and celebrate the joy of having my Furburbia puppy in my life, and celebrate the wonderful "neighborhood" that I call home.

Megan Williams
Silver Springs