The Bee publishes letters from readers across the Gallatin Valley. Letters are edited for length, never for truth, because we wouldn’t know where to start.

The North 19th Parking Situation

I am writing to express my mild concern regarding the new mixed-use development on North 19th. Last Tuesday, I attempted to park my Ford F-250 to pick up a gluten-free muffin, but the designated spots were entirely occupied by three Tesla SUVs and a bicycle rack. While I appreciate the progress that comes with progress, it seems difficult to navigate the lot when the stalls are designed for compact cars that aren’t actually manufactured yet. I circled the block four times before deciding to go home and eat toast. Surely, we can accommodate both modern progress and the trucks that built this town.

— Silas Thorne, Belgrade

Elk vs. Petunias

It has come to my attention that the elk herd living near the M Trail has developed a preference for my front-yard petunias. While I respect the wild nature of our beautiful valley, these animals are becoming quite bold. They stand on my lawn as if they own the property, chewing slowly while looking me directly in the eye. I have tried ringing a bell and reciting poetry, but they remain unimpressed. If we are going to continue building houses in their historical migration paths, could we at least provide them with a salad bar so they leave my flowers alone?

— Brenda Halloway, Bozeman

Trail Etiquette and Headphones

To the young lady I passed on the Uplands Trail yesterday: I shouted “on your left” three times, but you were wearing those noise-canceling headphones that look like earmuffs. I realize you are likely listening to a podcast about mindfulness, but when you swerve into the center of the path, you are not being very mindful of those of us trying to get a solid cardio burn in before our shift at the club. We moved here to be in nature, yet it seems we are all just trying to avoid bumping into one another while looking at our phones.

— Greg “Skipper” Vance, Big Sky