Sounding off on the climate

Editor, OBSERVER:

This is regarding a recent commentary “Our country cannot ignore climate change” (Dec. 20). Here are a few historic, geologic reminders:

¯ In recent geological history this area was covered with two miles of ice, which has been melting as a result of natural warming.

¯ As the planet warms following the last ice age, the climate changes naturally and life adapts.

¯ The warming we are experiencing has been measured by thermometers since 1850 and with satellite measurements since 1979. The measurements by satellites of worldwide trends indicate there has been little warming since 2000.

¯ Science by definition is not settled. “Scientific research involves using the scientific method, which seeks to objectively explain the events of nature in a reproducible way. It involves careful observation, which includes rigorous skepticism about what is observed, given that cognitive assumptions about how the world works influence how one interprets a percept.

It involves formulating hypotheses, via induction, based on such observations; experimental and measurement-based testing of deductions drawn from the hypotheses; and refinement (or elimination) of the hypotheses based on the experimental findings.” — Isaac Newton

And finally, illustrative of the fallacy of the “settled science” notion is the Petition Project in which 31,000 scientists (9,000 Ph.D’s) signed a petition which said, “There is no convincing scientific evidence that human release of carbon dioxide, methane, or other greenhouse gases is causing or will in the foreseeable future cause catastrophic heating of the Earth’s atmosphere and disruption of the Earth’s climate. Moreover, there is substantial scientific evidence that increased atmospheric carbon dioxide produce many beneficial effects upon the natural plant and animal environments on the Earth.” — www.petitionproject.org

KAREN ENGSTROM,

Mayville

City making progress on water

Editor, OBSERVER:

I would like to take this time to express my gratitude for the attention that has been given to continue to update the water distribution system and particularly our hydrant capabilities. It is difficult in a city, as in ours with aging infrastructure, to keep up with the countless upgrades needed, and sometimes waterflow for fire suppression is not seen as a priority. I am happy to say that this is not the case in our city.

Upgrading water lines and replacing fire hydrants is not the most flashy or popular project, but perhaps the most beneficial to the safety and the protection of our citizens.

A sufficient water supply can make a critical difference in our firefighting capabilities and also makes the job safer for our force. I personally know, that 30 years ago, there was insufficient fire flow in about 70 percent of our community; it was almost impossible to fight a fire without having a water issue or a significant delay in securing a proper water supply. It was the focus and effort of Randy Woodbury, to work toward correcting this.

During his many terms and positions, he made it his goal, to work with the fire department, cooperatively, to identify and prioritize the most needy areas. The development department was also very cooperative in the assistance of securing some of the funding that was needed, to accomplish this goal.

I am proud to say that with the work of all of you, we have continued this effort during this administration. I am also proud of the fact that in the past 30 years, we have reduced those areas of needed upgrades from 70 percent to 10 percent.

MIKE EDWARDS,

fire chief,

city of Dunkirk

Caring attitude evident in Brooks

Editor, OBSERVER:

I was in the emergency room of Brooks Memorial Hospital recently for dehydration and malnutrition. I can’t tell you enough about the wonderful care that I got from the staff there at the hospital. I had my doubts about the hospital because of the rumors and so forth. But I was amazed by the care that I received on this particular day. The staff was very pleasant and nice.

I had a nurse by the name of Phil and a physician’s assistant named Amy Jo. They did all kinds of tests on me and told me what was wrong other than what I addressed and I thought it is about time that I got some answers after 16 months of suffering.

I want to thank personally Phil for treating me with respect and dignity. Amy Jo was very thorough with all the tests she ordered. I can’t wait until the hospital moves closer to me in Fredonia. Then when I need the care that I need I don’t have far to go to.

SHARON BUESINK,

The Resource Center self advocate of the year 2016,

and Western Region Self Advocate of the Year 2016,

Fredonia