I've noted at least three references regarding the Idaho Maryland mine, either in your letters section or in your "reporting,” where people relate how they either drank or used mine contaminated water and they suffered no ill effects. Enough already.

I had a uncle who lived to his mid-eighties and was a lifelong smoker. Do you want to report that smoking is therefore okay – to heck with science? Maybe we should allow smoking at City Council meetings and other venues as it would benefit local cigarette retailers.

Although I feel The Union is pro-mine, at least keep the debate on an adult level. I, for one, have empathy with those who may have their water contaminated, and to just insinuate that the effects will be negligible does them, and others, a disservice.

Bill Cole

Grass Valley