Dear Editor,

I don't know who it was who ordered up the recent spell of cold weather we've been enjoying. Probably someone who was fussing last July about being too hot!

Be that as it may, I'd like to put in a good word for some folks who probably hear a lot more complaints than congratulations. I'm speaking of the folks who work for North San Saba Water Supply. On multiple occasions last week (when the temperature at my place was 20° F for three days running) I saw Water Supply employees out in the cold, digging holes, standing and working in running water, working to repair cold-damaged pipes. If I had to choose between them and myself who was goin to do that job, I'd pick them every single time. I want them (and everyone else) to know that I appreciate their efforts.

There was a long period of time when I worked as a Plumbing Inspector for the City of Austin. So I have some understanding of what they're dealing with. I don't know the history of North San Saba Water, but I'd bet that when it originated, it was organized and implemented by amateurs; people who wanted a dependable water supply system, for themselves and their neighbors, and did their best to bring it about. Some of the things they did were clearly mistakes; some of their efforts were not, but all of them were well intentioned.

I'm relatively new to the area and I don't know the people involved, either today or in the past. I'm aware that North San Saba Water Supply has been having difficulties lately for various and assorted reasons. But I urge you, one and all, to stop and think about what it must be like, working in the bottom of a muddy ditch in 20 degree weather with a high north wind blowing. Think about that and show those folks who are doing it some appreciation. When you see them out there working, stop and thank them, okay?

Sincerely,

Nelson Page

San Saba, Texas