This letter is in response to the Pendleton librarian’s car being totaled during Round-Up week.

Now that our world-famous Round-Up has came and went, surely I’m not the only one thinking ahead to next year. It surprises no one to say that alcohol has and will always be an issue at such events. I would like to thank the many police officers whose presence I sincerely appreciated throughout the festivities.

However, I am left with one question: Why do I never see roadblocks being utilized? I’m from Texas, where at random we barricade roads, stopping each and every car. I am all in supporting this tool for public safety being used in our area, especially during special events. It’s true that we value the economic growth seen from such events, and roadblocks may be somewhat of a deterrent. However, I would rather scare off drunk drivers than see monetary gain at any cost. It shouldn’t take mass fatalities to discuss this.

I realized this was an issue first during the Pendleton Bike Week this past July. Coming back from the cinema on a courtesy shuttle, I watched as the driver dropped off severely intoxicated men at the locations of their motorcycles. I believe we overlook such safety issues collectively as a courtesy to those who bring money to our town, yet it is no real courtesy.

If we care about Pendleton, we need to brand our town as a place that values human lives and safety over reckless consumption. I support random roadblocks, especially during special events.

Carlin Sacco

Pendleton