School super resigns
By Louis Sherman
Staff Writer
The Archuleta School District 50 Joint Board of Education announced the resignation of Superintendent Duane Noggle after returning from executive session at the close of its monthly meeting Tuesday.
In executive session, the board approved a resolution to accept Noggle's letter of resignation, while implementing a resignation agreement. Under the terms of the agreement, the resignation will take effect June 30, 2007, though Noggle will not act as superintendent during the interim. Rather, he will use vacation, sick and personal leave he has earned during his tenure of six years.
The resignation agreement also included a $78,000 compensation package to be paid to Noggle "upon and after" June 30.
In his letter of resignation, Noggle said he has enjoyed his part in meeting the challenges the district has faced over the last six years. "The future promises even greater challenges for the District; but I believe new leadership is needed to effectively address the needs of the students and the community," he wrote.
After the executive session, board president Mike Haynes announced the resignation and Noggle offered a prepared statement:
"Mr. Haynes, I want to thank you and the Board for giving me the opportunity to serve the children. I leave with the greatest respect and admiration for all of the dedicated educators and staff members who have worked tirelessly on behalf of students. I also want to thank the many parents, and community members who have offered their encouragement and support and a special thank you to the District's Accountability Committees for their generous and unselfish commitment of time and expertise on behalf of the schools and their students ..."
Following Noggle's statement, Haynes spoke for the board: "Over the six years Mr. Noggle has led our district, we have made great strides in meeting both federal and state guidelines for student achievement. Mr. Noggle has been instrumental in organizing and staffing our district to meet the rigid demands of No Child Left Behind as well as Colorado's accountability and accreditation requirements. I have enjoyed working with Duane over the past four years that I have been a member of the school board. We have become friends as well as partners in our work to improve public education here in the Pagosa Springs community and I wish him the best as he makes this change in his career."
In comments made Wednesday morning, Haynes said Noggle had communicated with him and members of the board during the weeks preceding the formal resignation. "It wasn't a surprise last night," he said.
According to Haynes, it was a "mutual decision with the board and Duane to accept his resignation ... he thought it was time for change, and the board agreed with that."
Haynes said the change was a "necessary step" and a "positive development for our kids."
The board and Noggle worked together to construct the resignation agreement, including the period of leave and compensation package, which is a typical aspect of resignations involving executive positions, said Haynes.
After announcing the resignation, the board set a meeting for tonight to discuss the process of filling the vacant position.
At the close of Tuesday's meeting, the board unanimously passed a resolution to appoint Bill Esterbrook, assistant superintendent for curriculum and instruction, the acting interim superintendent, until the board establishes the process for filling the position.
During tonight's meeting, the board will go into executive session to discuss personnel issues prompted by Noggle's resignation, said Haynes, "but there may be some action taken." Haynes said it is possible the board could formally name an interim superintendent after coming out of executive session.
The board will also consider the hiring process, while "going forward slowly" and getting advice on how to proceed, said Haynes.
School and building administrators have been asked to attend the meeting. While the bulk of the meeting will likely be spent in executive session, a portion of the meeting will be open to the public, said Haynes.
The special meeting will begin at 7 p.m. in the junior high school library.
louis@pagosasun.com

County seeks ordinance exemption
By James Robinson
Staff Writer
During a Feb. 6 town council meeting, Pagosa Springs Mayor Ross Aragon tabled the second reading of an ordinance drafted to mandate submittal of redevelopment plans prior to a building's demolition, partial demolition or relocation, after Archuleta County Administrator Bob Campbell requested inclusion of language that would make the county courthouse, and other buildings owned by political subdivisions, exempt from the legislation.
If approved as written, and without Campbell's proposed changes, town Ordinance Number 685 would require submittal of redevelopment plans and acquisition of a redevelopment permit prior to a building's demolition in any of the town's non-residential zoning districts.
The ordinance includes a list of procedures, including application and submittal requirements, bond requirements and exemptions in two cases. The first allows for an exemption when a building is deemed structurally unsound and an imminent threat to public health, safety and welfare. The second allows for an exemption when the property owner or applicant agrees to restrict the property to open space uses.
According to Town Planner Tamra Allen, the thrust of the ordinance is to ensure that when a demolition occurs, a replacement building will be constructed soon thereafter.
If approved with Campbell's proposed changes, Ordinance 685 would include a third exemption for buildings owned by Archuleta County and other political entities. And specifically, Campbell's proposed amendment would exempt the courthouse.
And that request didn't sit well with many town council members.
"It's a serious change the county wants to interject into the document and I'm having serious problems with that," said council member Stan Holt.
Council member Tony Simmons said the county should be held to the ordinance as it was drafted, and said, "It isn't unreasonable for the county to have a redevelopment plan."
Both Aragon and Middendorf expressed agreement with Holt's and Simmons' comments, although Aragon was reluctant to call for a vote without county staff present to make their case and without more public input concerning the exemption request.
Campbell will make his case before the council today at noon.
Although Campbell did not appear before the council Feb. 6, the proposed language was included in the town council's briefing packet along with a supplemental letter from Campbell explaining the rationale behind the request.
"As you are aware," Campbell writes, "the County is planning for the construction of approximately $22,000,000 in new County facilities within the next five years. As part of the process, the Board of County Commissioners has authorized the sale of the County Courthouse, due in part to the facts that the current site is too small, the Courthouse building is in poor condition and remodeling the building would be costly. We believe the most cost effective and likely use of this location by a potential buyer would be to demolish the Courthouse and construct new buildings that are more in line with the Town's plans for the Downtown District."
Campbell continues, "Exemption from Ordinance 685 will allow the County to move forward with negotiations of the Courthouse property ..."
The county is negotiating the courthouse sale with Pagosa Holdings, LLC, after the firm provided the sole response to the county's request for purchase proposals in October 2006.
According to county documents, the October 2006 request marked the county's third request for bids since 1999.
On Jan. 9, 2007, the county accepted Pagosa Holding's purchase offer with a series of undisclosed conditions.
On Jan. 30, the county received a formal written purchase proposal from Pagosa Holdings, and county staff and the board of county commissioners met in executive session Feb. 6 to discuss the offer.
Although the board did not make a decision on Pagosa Holdings' offer, following the closed-door meeting, County Attorney Teresa Williams said the sale is still pending.
Although Campbell has declined to discuss the county's sales conditions, demolition and an exemption from the demolition-redevelopment ordinance are apparently factors in the negotiations, as demonstrated in Campbell's letter to the town council.
Campbell said he perceives the county's move toward new facilities as not just a county effort, but a community endeavor. He added that incorporating the exemption language would help create an opportunity for downtown redevelopment which is important to the economic vitality of the greater community.
Campbell said the courthouse occupies prime downtown real estate, and the county pays no taxes on the building.
"Here's an opportunity for the town and county to be partners in a project that is important to the greater Pagosa Springs community," Campbell said.
At present, a town moratorium prohibits demolitions, alterations and relocations of buildings 50 years old and older, but that moratorium is set to expire April 1, 2007.
Campbell will address the town council at noon, regarding the second reading of Ordinance 685, in the town council chambers in the Pagosa Springs Town Hall.
james@pagosasun.com

County unveils road work schedule
By James Robinson
Staff Writer
If all goes according to schedule, county road crews will be hard at work this spring and summer tackling an aggressive road capital improvement schedule laid out by public works director Alan Zumwalt and supported by the 2007 budget.
Zumwalt presented the schedule to the board of county commissioners during its regular Feb. 6 meeting and outlined key dates and tasks.
According to Zumwalt, there are four main projects this year: paving Trails Boulevard from U.S. 160 to Sam Houston Avenue; paving Port Avenue, paving and reconstruction of Park Avenue and reconstruction and paving of Holiday Avenue.
For Trails Boulevard, Zumwalt said engineering and design should be completed in May, with a construction bid and award in June and construction commencing in August.
For Port Avenue, Zumwalt anticipated engineering and design would be completed in May, with a construction bid and award in June, and construction beginning in July.
Park Avenue is slated for completion of design and engineering work in May, with a construction bid and award in June, and construction scheduled for August.
Zumwalt said reconstruction of Holiday Avenue is on the same schedule as Park Avenue.
In addition to his four primary projects, Zumwalt listed a series of secondary projects, also scheduled for completion between May and September.
On that list is:
- Pinon Causeway - reconstruction and paving from Talisman Drive to Carlie Place. Construction is scheduled to begin in April and should conclude in May.
- County Road 975 - reconstruction and paving between Colo. 151 and the New Mexico state line. Drainage work is scheduled for February, grading and graveling in March and paving in May.
- North Pagosa Boulevard - engineering for road improvements slated along North Pagosa Boulevard between U.S.160 and Village Drive.
- Juanita Bridge replacement - installation of new bridge is scheduled for fall 2007.
- Meadows Drive - intersection repairs and repaving, south of its intersection with U.S. 160.
Zumwalt said his intent was to hit the project list hard in the spring, and to wrap things up by fall, but added, "Everything is weather dependent around here."
According to figures provided by Archuleta County Finance Director Bob Burchett, the planned road improvements total more than $3.4 million.
james@pagosasun.com

Inside The Sun

Archuleta County to benefit from El Pomar funds

Archuleta County representatives were present at the El Pomar Foundation Awards last week to celebrate the work of southwest Colorado's nonprofits and to receive notification that foundation money would be forthcoming.
The Southwest Council brought together leaders from five counties and Fort Lewis College to address substance abuse among youth. Seventy-five thousand dollars was presented to form the Regional Substance Abuse Prevention Program (RSAPP). This five-county, multi-year program will incorporate best practices of education, prevention, treatment and sustained recovery.
"The long term goals of the Regional Substance Abuse Prevention Program (RSAPP) are to reduce substance abuse and increasing protective factors for youth," said Chuck McAfee, Southwest Council member and RSAPP coordinator. "With this $75,000 grant, El Pomar is empowering southwest communities to work together on the important and pervasive issue of substance abuse by youth. Our steering committee is comprised of community leaders and professionals from five counties and Fort Lewis College. We're realizing that we're not just fighting this issue in our own communities - it's a regional issue that needs regional conversation and collaboration."
The Pagosa Meth Project is part of the process, and will be awarded money to work with prevention and education for the youth in the community. John Vick, Anna Royer, Ellen Charnley and Steve Wadley are part of the steering committee that will work with the grant money.
Archuleta County Education Center was awarded a Karl E. Eitel fund award. The fund supports the work of outstanding Colorado nonprofits that serve at-risk youth. Organizations do not apply for recognition and grants, but are nominated and selected by a panel that includes Eitel family members and El Pomar Trustees and staff.
Vanessa Gallegos and Ryan Bromley represented the El Pomar Youth in Community Service (EPYCS) project. El Pomar Foundation provides a $7,500 matching grant to each school group that successfully raises $500 or more. EPYCS Students then directly award $8,000 in grant funds to Colorado nonprofit organizations that best address the concerns outlined in their school's mission statement.
Mary Jo Coulehan was appointed to a three-year term on the Southwest Council. Coulehan joins Brad Bartel, president of Fort Lewis College; Sen. Jim Isgar; Susan Lander, executive director of Music in the Mountains; McAfee, the board member from Dolores Montezuma Community Summit; Ed Morlan, executive director of Region 9 Economic Development District; and Arnold Santistevan, director of education for The Southern Ute Tribe.

Keep mail delivery areas clear of snow and ice

By Louis Sherman
Staff Writer
The Pagosa Springs post office asks all postal patrons and property owner associations to clear a safe path to mail boxes for letter carriers, whether they are delivering to the porch, curbside or a cluster box, at a business or a home.
Customers are instructed to make sure mail boxes are visible and free of snow and ice, while being safely accessible. The location of the box should be clear of snow, ice, slush and debris. If boxes are unaccessible, letter carriers will consider safety first and will delay their deliveries to unsafe locations.
Interim Postmaster Susan Service said some boxes have been obstructed, delaying delivery and sparking complaints from postal patrons. Some property owner associations have expressed confusion regarding whose responsibility it is to clear delivery locations, such as cluster boxes, but it is the property owners' responsibility, she said.
Service said the request is also prompted by concern for the safety of postal patrons, who could be injured at cluster boxes that are not maintained.
louis@pagosasun.com

Assessor continues to fine-tune valuations

By James Robinson
Staff Writer
With property taxes predicted to leap as much as 65 percent for 2007, many tax payers are bracing for the worst.
According to Archuleta County Assessor Keren Prior, the full scope of property valuation and property tax increases will not be known until later in the spring, however, preliminary analysis indicates land values increasing 100 percent and home values increasing 50 percent.
Prior said in an effort to fine tune and finalize valuations for mailing in May, she is analyzing economic areas, subdivisions and neighborhoods. So far, Prior said, the predicted increases look likely to occur, with some areas getting hit harder, others less so.
"I'm going to define the neighborhoods and then will know for sure who it impacted the hardest," Prior said.
Prior has until mid-April to finalize the valuation numbers.
But regardless of the outcome, Prior said, if conversations with taxpayers continue in the same vein, she is certain she will receive a flood of calls from frustrated, confused, and sometimes angry taxpayers when notices of valuation are mailed out this spring.
However, although notices of valuation come from the assessor, Prior does not set the mill levies that determine how much property tax an owner pays - that is up to the special districts and the Taxpayer's Bill of Rights (TABOR) - she analyzes and then reports the market.
In this case, Prior is analyzing sales between Jan. 1, 2005 and June 30, 2006 which will set property valuations for 2007.
"The 2007 value is based on 2006 data and is payable in 2008," Prior said. "One thing that people are confused about is that the value on their property now is based on sales from 2004."
In order to determine residential property and vacant land values, Prior explained, she analyzes qualified sales by neighborhood and economic area during a specified sales period.
"These are 'arm's length' transactions, not brother-in-law deals or special concessions," Prior said.
During preliminary market analysis for the current sales period - Jan. 1, 2005, through June 30, 2006 - Prior discovered significant leaps in sales prices, and she attributes the jumps largely to National Recreation Properties Incorporated (NRPI) involvement in the Pagosa Springs real estate market during the spring and summer of 2005.
During that time, the company scooped up hundreds of vacant lots in the Pagosa Lakes area at bargain-basement pricing. Then, using an aggressive multi-state advertising campaign, including free trips to Pagosa Springs to view properties, the company sold the parcels at two to three times NRPI's original purchase price.
Prior has described NRPI's dealings as the "driving force" behind the sales frenzy and the overall escalation in values, but added that subsequent sales compounded market increases.
For example, one property at the beginning of the sales period, according to Prior, sold for $120,000. At the end of the period, June 30, 2006, the same property sold for $330,000. Prior did not indicate whether the property was part of the NRPI sales campaign.
Prior said once sales data is compiled for the specified period, she will eliminate the high and low sales to arrive at a median market value for vacant land. Prior uses separate analyses to determine improvement (home, garage, outbuildings, etc.) values.
In light of NRPI's involvement in the local market, Prior has had to disqualify a number of sales that occurred between Jan. 1, 2005, and June 30, 2006, because they did not meet the "arm's length transaction" criteria.
In documentation provided by Prior, an "arm's length transaction" is "a transaction in which the parties are dealing from equal bargaining positions. Parties are said to deal 'at arm's length' when each stands upon the strict letter of his or her rights and conducts the business in a formal matter without trusting the other's fairness or integrity and without being subject to the other's control or dominant influence ..."
Prior said state auditors scrutinize every disqualified sale and the assessor must provide accurate and compelling documentation for disqualification.
"State auditors check every sale that I throw out. I have to go by the procedures mandated by state statute. If you disqualify something, you'd better have it documented, you better have good reason," Prior said.
By and large, Prior said, subsequent sales of NRPI lots and other properties, although they were often based on inflated comparables linked to NRPI sales and an NRPI driven market, qualify as "arm's length transactions" and cannot be disqualified.
Once sales are qualified and unqualified, and high and low sales are thrown out, Prior establishes the median market value and improvement value of a property - essentially the dollar amount that will appear on a property owner's notice of valuation - that number is multiplied by a percentage rate, or assessment rate.
Currently, the assessment rate percentage for residential property is 7.96 percent and 29 percent for all other property.
Then, the product of the market value multiplied by the assessment rate is then multiplied by the mill levy to determine the tax bill.
Following passage of Ballot Issue 1A, the Archuleta County Mill levy is frozen at 18.233 mills until 2011.
Prior said the pitfall of the median approach is that some property values fall above the median and some below, although she rarely hears from citizens when their property is undervalued.
For residential property, Prior said state law requires the assessor to use only the sales comparison, or "market approach," when determining values. For commercial property, Prior said she uses market, income and cost analyses to determine value.
Although the process of assessing property values may seem esoteric or confusing, assessors across the state are bound by five large volumes of Colorado statute. In addition, their results are subject to audit.
Prior said if she, or any other assessor, can't perform an accurate valuation, the state will send in auditors to do job.
"If we can't qualify or unqualify sales, the state will send in someone to do it for us and then they'll send us the bill," said Prior.
Prior estimated the cost at $1 million to $2 million in taxpayer dollars - dollars, Prior said could go to roads or other projects.
Nevertheless, no matter how thorough, technical or legal the process is, Prior said many still have a tough time accepting property taxes. And she stressed that the assessor does not determine a property's value, the market determines a property's value. Furthermore, there is a direct correlation between a person's property valuation and their property tax.
For example, despite the fact that voters froze the mill levy at the 2006 rate of 18.233 mills, if valuations increase, then taxes will increase. Conversely, lower valuations, even at the 18.233 rate, would have resulted in lower taxes due in 2008. Furthermore, if Ballot Issue 1A had failed, TABOR would have protected taxpayers from exorbitant leaps in property tax increases, however, Ballot Issue 1A also exempted Archuleta County from TABOR's constraints. According to county documents, with TABOR intact, the 2008 county mill levy rate would have been 14.969.
As taxpayers prepare for higher valuations and the prospect of facing a significantly increased property tax bill, Prior is also preparing for scores of taxpayers who feel their property valuation statement does not reflect the true value of their vacant or improved property. For those who disagree with the assessor's statement of valuation, Prior said there is an appeals process. The process begins in the assessor's office and is governed by guidelines describing what constitutes a legitimate objection. The assessor's staff can provide literature and can walk taxpayers through the appeal process.
Residential valuation objections will be heard from May 1, 2007 until June 1, 2007. Formal objections to property valuation statements must be postmarked no later than June 1, 2007.
For more information, visit the assessor's office in the Archuleta County Courthouse at 449 San Juan St. in downtown Pagosa Springs, or by telephone, 264-8310, or on the Web at archuletacounty.org.
james@pagosasun.com

Rodeo grounds remain viable campus option

By James Robinson
Staff Writer
A new Archuleta County Courthouse and jail facilities may eventually find a home on a campus site at the rodeo grounds and near the current location of the Archuleta County Fairgrounds.
The Western Heritage Event Center board discussed the possibility Feb. 8, and according to board member J.R. Ford, an informal vote taken during the meeting may make the project possible.
"We took a straw vote to enter into negotiations with the county. There was a lot of discussion, but no dissension," Ford said.
Pagosa Springs Enterprises owns the land in question, and land use decisions are made jointly by the organization and the Western Heritage Event Center Board of Directors. Both are nonprofit entities.
As the county has made clear its intentions to move forward with procurement of property for new county facilities, county staff and county commissioners have narrowed the field to three options: 12 acres at Mountain Crossing at the southeast corner of U.S. 84 and U.S. 160; four acres on the southwest corner of U.S. 84 and U.S. 160, known as the Goodman property; and property near the fairgrounds, which staff and the commissioners have commonly referred to as the fairgrounds property.
However, referring to the property as the "fairgrounds" is a misnomer.
The 10- to 12-acre parcel near the fairgrounds is actually part of the 34-acre Red Ryder Roundup Rodeo Grounds - commonly known as the rodeo grounds - and is south of both the Archuleta County Fairgrounds and the rodeo arena.
Mill Creek Road and U.S. 84 border the 34-acre rodeo grounds property on two sides. The Archuleta County Fairgrounds are on a 3.6 acre parcel within the larger 34-acre tract, and are located on the north end of the rodeo grounds near the intersection of Mill Creek Road and U.S. 84.
Ford said the 3.6 acre fairgrounds parcel was traded to Archuleta County in exchange for a variety of services such as bathrooms and sewer lines to the rodeo grounds, in addition to oversight on fairgrounds land-use issues. For example, if the fairgrounds parcel should cease operating as the county fairgrounds, the property would revert to Pagosa Springs Enterprises and the Western Heritage Event Center Board.
According to Ford, negotiations with the county would include selling the aforementioned 10 to 12 acres. In exchange, the county would give its 3.6 acres back to Pagosa Springs Enterprises and the Western Heritage Event Center board. The net difference in dollar value between the two properties would be paid by the county, then used to fund the construction of an indoor event center. Presumably, the county fair would continue in generally the same location.
Ford said the board had agreed in concept Feb. 8, but a formal vote would be taken when the particulars of a contract are worked out.
Archuleta County Administrator Bob Campbell said county staff has met with the Western Heritage Event Center Board, and that discussions have been positive thus far.
"Both parties seem amenable to continued negotiations and a formal letter from the Western Heritage board is forthcoming," Campbell said.
Although Ford acknowledged there are numerous contractual details to iron out, he remains optimistic.
"The board over the last 30 years has been trying to develop an indoor riding arena and this is the first legitimate opportunity to be able to come up with the money," Ford said.
Western Heritage Event Center Board President Wes Lewis could not be reached for comment Wednesday.
james@pagosasun.com

Forest Service discontinues use of avalanche warning sign

By Phyllis Wheaton
Special to The SUN
For a number of years, the Pagosa Ranger District of the San Juan National Forest has maintained an Avalanche Danger sign in front of the district office on Pagosa Street.
The sign is updated daily during the winter by volunteers to inform residents and visitors of the current threat of avalanche in the backcountry of our local mountains. This sign consists of a one-word danger rating, based on the daily forecast for the southern San Juan area provided by the Colorado Avalanche Information Center (CAIC).
The nature of avalanches is complex. Therefore, the threat they pose cannot be adequately described by one word alone. Snow is one of the only materials on earth that exists within a few degrees of its melting point from its formation in the atmosphere to the time it melts - whether hours, weeks or years later. This fact conveys the inherently unstable nature of mountain snow.
A variety of environmental influences, such as wind, sun, temperature and intensity of precipitation, contribute to the development of conditions within the snowpack that favor the initiation and release of an avalanche. The contradiction is that these same influences can also promote the development of conditions that favor the snow staying in place on the mountainside. It takes well trained eyes and ears to accurately deduce whether the snowpack favors stability or instability.
Given such complexity, the Pagosa Ranger District has decided to discontinue the Avalanche Danger sign and to refer winter recreationists directly to the Colorado Avalanche Information Center.
CAIC provides detailed reports regarding the avalanche danger forecast. This information is available on the Web at http://avalanche.state.co.us or by calling 247-8187. These reports contain a well-formed and succinct discussion about current snowpack conditions and what may be the most accurate weather forecast available for the San Juan mountain range.
The Pagosa Ranger District posts the CAIC daily forecasts inside the office and in the kiosk at the entrance to the district office at 180 Pagosa St. For more information, contact Pagosa Ranger District at 264-2268.
Anyone who ventures into snow-covered mountains on snowshoes, skis, snowboards, or snowmobiles, owes it to themselves, their loved ones, and the dedicated rescuers who risk their lives to save us from our misfortunes and follies, to take the time to acquire knowledge of the ways of avalanche. Snow sense takes time to develop, but many educational resources are available, including www.avalanche.org and avalanche training opportunities that are available locally.

County dragging feet on impact fees?

By Chuck McGuire
Staff Writer
At their regular monthly meeting Tuesday, members of the San Juan Water Conservancy District Board of Directors expressed open frustration with Archuleta County's apparent delay in adopting impact fees for new construction. In the meantime, County Administrator Bob Campbell maintains the county is on the verge of doing just that.
As the county's growing human population stretches existing raw water resources, the SJWCD believes new development should pay its way. And, according to the district board of directors, the imposition of impact fees is the best way of assuring that it does.
In 2001, the Colorado Supreme Court ruled that a local government may impose impact fees on developers in order to fund expenditures by such government on capital facilities needed to serve new development. It did not authorize metropolitan or special districts to establish fee programs of their own, but it did allow local governments to do so on their behalf.
Recent studies by district consultant Harris Water Engineering, Inc. of Durango suggest the development of additional water diversions and storage are necessary to avoid shortages within the district by as early as 2010 to 2015.
Based on an Environmental Planning Systems study completed in the final months of 2005, both the county and the Town of Pagosa Springs realized a need for impact fees to help offset costs associated with upcoming raw water development and storage. In early February 2006, the district board signed off on a fee structure it felt both the county and town were poised to adopt.
By May 2006, the town had indeed adopted an entire list of impact fees, including a water storage component assessing $1,129 for the construction of each new single- or multi-family residential unit within town limits. The fee was eventually implemented later in the year, and is currently in effect.
To date, however, Archuleta County has yet to adopt an impact fee program of any kind, leaving district directors wondering why it's taken nearly a year, so far.
"The county seems to be dragging this thing on and on," said board president Fred Schmidt at Tuesday's meeting. "Now they've asked for all of our information on Dry Gulch (a proposed reservoir project outside of town). They ought to have that already," he said, "but maybe we should load up the whole file cabinet and deliver it to them."
Board directors discussed the possibility that county staff might be taking time to bring newly-elected county commissioner Bob Moomaw "up to speed" on a proposed impact fee program, but director Windsor Chacey thought it unlikely, and probably unnecessary.
"He ran for commissioner for a long time," she said, "he should already know what's going on."
Chacey added that she had asked Archuleta County Board of County Commissioners Chair Robin Schiro about "moving this along" at the last BoCC meeting, but hasn't heard anything. By meeting's end, the district board moved to draft a letter to the BoCC, asking for a conference and some assurance of a timeline.
Campbell, meanwhile, explained that he took over as county administrator last March, and immediately faced a number of pressing issues, including discussions on impact fees, large-format retail development, zoning and the creation of a new land use code. He noted numerous county personnel changes, including the seating of two new commissioners, and work on Ballot Question 1A, which voters ultimately approved in November, as other time-consuming distractions.
When asked about recent progress on possible county impact fees, Campbell said he and staff have been working with the town to resolve matters involving fee allocation, once they are established. Meanwhile, they are reviewing studies completed by SJWCD consultants and others, in an attempt to create what they consider a fair fee structure. Campbell added that Commissioner Moomaw's review of the Dry Gulch information shouldn't delay the final adoption of fees, which he thought might take six months, "but probably much less."
chuck@pagosasun.com

Committee formed to consider student drug test policy

By Louis Sherman
Staff Writer
The Archuleta School District 50 Joint passed a resolution Tuesday night to create a committee to investigate the need for random drug testing of student participants in high school extracurricular activities.
Jim Shaffer, activities director at the high school, presented a proposal to create a committee to "investigate and develop a drug testing policy." The proposal is supported by school and district accountability committees and all coaches, said Shaffer.
According to Shaffer, currently the school can only act on its drug and alcohol policy if a student is caught in the act or if the student or parent admits to the violation. Testing would work to deter students from using drugs and alcohol (since they could lose the privilege of participating in extracurriculars), it would allow the school to be aware of use (with or without a confession) and it would start the process of getting help to students who need it.
Board member Ken Fox, along with board president Mike Haynes, suggested the need to separate the investigation process from the policy-making process. He also said it was important to include the community, and Haynes expressed the need for public comment.
The board discussed the issue of the large number of students who are not involved in extracurriculars and thus could not be tested. But Shaffer said that extracurriculars could be extended to include other privileges like parking passes, which would make a large portion of the student body subject to the random tests.
The board also said the committee needed to include individuals opposed to testing in schools, as well as individuals from a variety of fields, perspectives and relationships to the school district.
Shaffer said he has a long list of potential committee members - including Pastor Don Ford, Joanne Irons (of the Pagosa Meth Project), Fox (as a school board representative), Mark Ziegler (physical therapist for high school athletics, who is opposed to testing), coaches, parents, students, teachers, administrators, lawyers, counselors and representatives from law enforcement, social services and the field of medicine.
After the discussion, Fox moved to authorize a committee to investigate the need for drug testing in the schools, and the motion was unanimously passed.
The motion did not authorize the new committee to create a policy or program regarding random drug testing, only to investigate the matter and consider what is in the students' best interests.
After the committee makes any determination, it would present its findings to the school board, which would then determine whether or not a drug testing policy should be constructed.
If it is found that a random drug testing program is advisable, a policy and procedure could be in place to begin testing during the 2008-2009 school year, said Shaffer.
louis@pagosasun.com

WinterFest 2007 competition winners

The following are winners of the various WinterFest competitions held last weekend.
Mountain States Snowmobile Race
Pro:
First place - Oksana Burnhardt, Leadville.
Second place - Pam Lloyd, Pagosa Springs.
120 Champ, 6-12:
First place - Paige Lloyd, Pagosa Springs.
Second place - Jonathan Durmas, White Water, Colo.
120 Stock 4-5:
First place - Jonathan Durmas, White Water.
Second place - Zoe Hogy, Parker.
Junior 7-10:
First place - A.J. Stoffle, Craig.
Second place - Elias Bacon, Laramie, Wyo.
Junior 9-11:
First place - Zared Hill, Buena Vista.
Second place - A.J. Stoffle, Craig.
Junior 10-13:
First place - Dylon Moss, Laramie.
Second place - Mike Rivas, Pagosa Springs.
Junior 14-15:
First place - Austin Reed, Steamboat Springs.
Second place - Dylon Moss, Laramie.
Junior 16-17:
First place - Dakota Gates, Centennial, Wyo.
Second place - Austin Reed, Steamboat Springs.
Sport Stock:
First place - Dakota Gates, Centennial.
Second place - James Gallegos, Pagosa Springs.
Sport Open:
First place - Dakota Gates, Centennial.
Second place - James Gallegos, Pagosa Springs.
Sport Women's:
First place - Ashlen Wilkerson, Steamboat Springs.
Second place - Michelle Stoffle, Craig.
Semi-Pro Stock:
First place - Brad Lattin, Pagosa Springs.
Second place - Shane Lloyd, Pagosa Springs.
Semi Pro Open:
First place - Shane Lloyd, Pagosa Springs.
Second place - Brad Lattin, Pagosa Springs.
Pro Vets:
First place - Tracy Smith, Pagosa Springs.
Second place - Kenny Lloyd, Pagosa Springs.
Beginner Stock:
First place - Levi Dick, New Castle, Colo.
Second place - Mark Donner, Laramie.
Plus 40:
First place - Don Leon, Cedaredge.
Second place - Michael Stoffle, Craig.
For more information on the snocross race results, go to www.mssrracing.com.
Anything Goes Downhill Sled Race
First place - Chris Borne with an average fastest time of 8.09 seconds.
Second place - Nathan Keyawa with an average fastest time of 8.4 seconds.
Third place - Michael Schaffer with an average fastest time of 8.85 seconds.
Most Creative, adult category - Michael Schaffer for the entry complete with saddle, stirrups and stick horse head.
Youth category - Nathan Keyawa for the padded wooden platform on skies and a snowboard.
WinterFest Triathlon
First place, women - Deborah Lee Morton, Pagosa Springs, 1 hour, 51.28 seconds.
First place, men - Steve Bringham, Del Norte, 1:36.11
Participants in finishing order:
Steve Bringham, Del Norte, 1:36.11
Steve Hartvigsen, Pagosa Springs, 1:41.52.
Davey Pitcher, Pagosa Springs, 1:50.09.
Deborah Lee Morton, Pagosa Springs, 1:51.28.
David Off, Del Norte, 1:52.56.
Robbie Johnson, Pagosa Springs, 1:56.35.
Emily Deitz, Pagosa Springs, 1:56.41.
Ben Witting, Pagosa Springs, 1:57.10.
J.D. Kurz, Pagosa Springs, 2:01.18.
Ron Bubb, Pagosa Springs, 2:11.56.
Jennifer Martin, Pagosa Springs, 2:14.25.
Randi Young, South Fork, 2:35.17.
Greg Lyman, Durango, 2:37.31.
Tim Decker, Pagosa Springs, 3:01.52.
Andrew Jones, Pagosa Springs, 3:02.
Pagosa Lakes Perch Tournament
Registered adults - 208.
Registered kids - 35.
Perch caught category:
First place - Robert Murphy, 211 perch, $400 prize.
Second place– Danielle Austin, 155 perch, $300.
Third place– Jeb Ping, 149 perch, $200.
Fourth place– Heather Morris, 139 perch, $!00.
Fifth place – Thomas Cowhm, 137 perch, $50.
In total there were about 4,000 perch caught.
Largest Perch category:
First place - Justin Loos, 1.1 pound perch. $400 prize.
Second place - Bud Moreau, 1.06 pound perch, $300.
Third place - Chester Maez with a .82 pound perch, $200.
Fourth place - Angelo Saladino with a .81 pound perch, $100.
Fifth place - Eric Bard with a .60 pound perch, $50.

Pradera Pointe plan continued, again

By James Robinson
Staff Writer
Representatives of the proposed 122-lot Pradera Pointe subdivision returned to the town's planning commission Tuesday for sketch plan approval, however the commissioners called for a second continuance to fine tune lingering concerns with the project.
Developer Bill Herebic, Guiseppe Margiotta of Trinity Land Consultants and Mike Davis of Davis Engineering made their first sketch plan case before the town's planning commission Jan. 9. At the time, Herebic unveiled plans for 134, single-family residential lots, ranging in size from .25 to 3.99 acres, on a 163-acre parcel north of downtown Pagosa Springs.
Following a flurry of staunch opposition from residents of adjacent subdivisions - Pradera Pointe is bordered by Crestview Estates, Pagosa Hills No. Three, Pagosa Hills No. Four, Pagosa Development and Pagosa Development No. Two - the planning commission called for a continuance in order to allow the developer an opportunity to modify his plans. Chief among attendees' concerns were the proposed subdivision's impacts to surrounding roads and neighborhoods, density issues, adjacent subdivision compatibility, wildlife, open space and view corridor impacts.
Tuesday's presentation showed a scaled-back proposal with fewer lots -122 versus 134; smaller maximum lot sizes -1.25 acres versus 3.99; and a stronger overall open space component - 52 percent open space versus 27 percent.
Town of Pagosa Springs Associate Planner Joe Nigg said overall density between the original submittal and Tuesday's submittal had remained largely the same - 0.82 units per acre on the original submittal, and 0.75 on the revised - however, Nigg said, the open space component had "changed drastically."
"I think it's pretty obvious the developer has made an extensive effort to address the planning commission's and the public's concerns," said commission chair Tracy Bunning.
Other members of the commission, Angela Atkinson, David Conrad, Kathie Lattin and Natalie Woodruff, largely echoed Bunning's comments, although the public was not completely sold.
Many of those in attendance Tuesday took aim at the southern portion of the project, which is generally bordered by Cemetery Road on the east, Fritz and Mable's Place and Pagosa Development Number Two on the north, Pagosa Hills No. Four and Pagosa Hills No. Three on the west, and Crestview Estates on the south. The southern portion of the subdivision contains many of the projects smaller lots, including all the quarter acre parcels.
Robin Auld described the southern lots as "offensive" and detrimental to the eastern view corridor had by residents of Pagosa Hills No. Four. Others said the quarter-acre parcels were too dense, numerous and too small to ensure size compatibility with adjacent subdivisions, particularly Crestview Estates and Pagosa Hills Nos. Three and Four.
Vicki Hujus distilled the argument down when she said, "Make the quarter acres one acre and keep the open space."
Herebic said he wasn't interested in one-acre lots.
According to documentation provided by planning staff, Crestview Estates has a minimal lot size of five acres, while Pagosa Development No. Two varies between .91 and 1.4 acres. Pagosa Hills Nos. Three and Four vary in lot sizes from .4 acres to 2.1 acres.
"It is staff's finding that adjacent development has a broad range in typical lot size, and the lot sizes are somewhat compatible with the proposed subdivision."
Many remained concerned about traffic and road impacts, particularly the subdivision's use of Rainbow Drive as an access route to Pike Drive and eventually U.S. 160.
One man described the intersection at Pike Drive and U.S. 160 as "a disaster waiting to happen," and said Pradera Pointe would only make a dire situation worse.
After hearing public comment, Atkinson identified lots 29 through 47, described as the "peninsula section," as arguably the most contentious portion of the project area. She suggested that the developer explore minor modifications to the area that might appease nearby residents.
Town Planner Tamra Allen suggested continuing the sketch plan to the next planning commission meeting and, in the interim, meeting with the developer in a work session to hammer out design alternatives for the "peninsula" section.
Herebic urged the commission to vote. "We have achieved the bulk of what we've been asked to achieve, and we'd like a vote."
Allen countered that a continuance wouldn't slow the project's passage to the town council, and suggested fast-tracking the work session. If fast-tracked, Allen explained, the sketch plan could return to the planning commission for a vote Feb. 27, then move on to the town council for review March 5. She said the sketch plan would go before the town council March 5, regardless of whether a vote was called Tuesday or not.
Herebic agreed, and the board unanimously approved continuing the project and scheduled the work session.
Speaking to the crowd, Bunning said, "They really have made an effort to try to address your concerns and issues."
Herebic, Davis and Margiotta will meet with the planning commission and town planning staff in a work session Friday.
Pradera Pointe will return to the planning commission for sketch plan approval at 5: p.m. Feb. 27 in town council chambers at the Pagosa Springs Town Hall.
james@pagosasun.com

Friends of Wolf Creek to host lecture, fund-raiser
By James Robinson
Staff Writer
As part of its ongoing fund-raising efforts, Friends of Wolf Creek will host a lecture Feb. 27 on the physical effects and medical implications of living at high altitude.
The event begins at 7 p.m. in the Pagosa Lakes Clubhouse at 230 Port Ave., and will feature guest speakers Dr. Gustav Hallin and Dr. Richard Brown of Durango's Four Corners Pulmonary and Critical Care Medicine.
Brown has been practicing at altitude for 14 years, and Hallin seven. Together, they have more than 40 years in medicine and both are graduates of the University of Illinois.
A donation of $5 per person is requested for the event, although no one will be turned away.
Proceeds will help fund Friends of Wolf Creek ongoing struggle against the proposed Village at Wolf Creek.
Ryan Demmy Bidwell of Colorado Wild will provide attendees with a brief update on the group's most recent efforts related to the development.
james@pagosasun.com

By James Robinson

Staff Writer

No column this week.

By Chuck McGuire

SUN Columnist

No column this week.

Reality check
Dear Editor:
In a perfect world, Mr. Finney's solution to our alleged foreign policy dilemma might be viable. However, this is not a perfect world, and he is "looking through a glass, darkly." Ah yes, diplomacy is the simple, perfect solution for all of our problems. Anyone besides me remember how effective diplomacy was with the schoolyard bully? Anyone remember how effective Neville Chamberlain's diplomacy was with Hitler in 1939? The newest bully on the block is the Hitler wannabe Ahmadinejad, President of Iran, with his threats to "annihilate Israel." I really don't think any amount of diplomacy or kissing up will make him love America, regardless of what we do or don't do.
When anyone mentions Jimmy Carter and diplomacy in the same breath, my blood pressure goes up about 100 points. This guy may be qualified to write a book about growing peanuts, but not about Middle Eastern Diplomacy. This is the diplomatic wimp who abandoned fifty-two American Embassy workers to 444 days of captivity in Iran in 1979, and set America's image plummeting. If either Ronald Reagan or John Kennedy would have been in office, they would have parked the Seventh Fleet in the Persian Gulf and given the Ayatollah Khomeini 24 hours to release the hostages, unhurt and smiling. That's the only kind of diplomacy these fanatics understand. By the way, anyone know what Ole Jimmy Boy did to make them so mad to start with - absolutely nothing, and that's my point. We are engaged in a life and death struggle with maniacs who understand only one thing, just like the school yard bully. He stops bullying when he realizes he's going to have to fight you for your lunch money.
Back in 1901, Theodore Roosevelt's foreign policy was based on a favorite proverb of his, "Speak softly and carry a big stick." His corollary to the Monroe Doctrine ensured construction of the Panama Canal, prevented the establishment of foreign bases in the Caribbean (remember Kennedy and the Cuban Missile Crisis), and arrogated the sole right of intervention in Latin America to the United States. He did all of that with diplomacy, when it would work, and the Big Stick when it wouldn't! That was a good approach then and it still is today.
Diplomacy is always light years better than war, but for it to be effective you have to be dealing with folks who are diplomatic. Hussein wasn't, and I'm really not convinced that Iran's Ahmadinejad and North Korea's Kim Jong-il are either. Maybe Mr. Finney knows something about them and radical Muslims that I don't!
Roy K. Boutwell
Wichita Falls, Texas

Too dumb to live
Dear Editor:
Somehow it just seems right. Hard on the heels of getting scammed into surrendering our Tabor protections, Siberia Without a Clue is suddenly faced with massive tax increases. The whining would be music to my ears, except I'll have to pay up along with the rest of these poor saps.
Forgive us Fitz - we might be too dumb to live.
N.G. Constan
Chromo

Lunch problem
Dear Editor:
The other day at school, I was absolutely disgusted at a situation that arose with one of my friends. After getting my lunch and sitting at our table, I looked around to see where my friend had gone, because she wasn't behind me. She came to the table angry; when I asked her why she said that the people at the registers had made her (and a few other kids) give them her food back because she owned them $1.50. I couldn't believe that the school could turn a student away and refuse them lunch. Our principal was nearby so I (along with the others at the table who were in disbelief) asked him to come over. I explained to him what had happened and he said that it was allowed and that there could be no charges on our lunch accounts.
I write this letter not to point fingers, but to inform. To me a school should never turn a child away who wants to eat. If the child is owing money on school lunches, inform the parents by way of how they inform of unscheduled absences or truancies, but I don't believe the kid should go hungry for the rest of the day.
Kaytlin Veronica Ehardt-Aguilar
Editor's note: A check with high school principal David Hamilton shows that, first, the district has for several years had a "no charge" procedure in place. Students in the USDA food program are informed when they are getting low on lunch money and letters are sent out when students run out of lunch money. A letter to parents always precedes a student being told they cannot charge the regular lunch. Parents who are struggling to pay lunch charges are urged to apply for free/reduced price meals, which can be approved at any time.
Second, students who are not classified as free/reduced charge clients, and who do not have money for lunch, are offered an alternate meal that is not claimed for USDA reimbursement. The meal includes milk, granola bars, fruit and crackers. Many other Colorado school districts do not offer this option.

Run for money
Dear Editor:
According to the letter written by June Madrid last week, under the tenets of "previous" SMM regulations, if the equipment never left one's private property, payment of SMM taxes was not required. Now, said Madrid, following changes during the last legislative session, all mobile machinery regardless of its location or type of use is subject to tax. "The law now reads that all equipment must be registered or on the tax rolls, regardless of the purpose of use of the equipment." So the rule saying, "if it never leaves your property, no longer applies," said Madrid.
Here's my concern. Some of us have been forced into paying this tax for license plates for a few years before it even became a law. Last year, I called and spoke with a representative from Motor Vehicle Department in Denver. The representative informed me that there was no such law stating that I had to have license plates on my equipment unless it was being used on public roads. The representative I spoke with asked me to have Mrs. Madrid contact her. Madrid refused. The representative from Denver DMV called Madrid. Madrid then informed this person that the reason I had to license plate my skid steer was because the sheriff's department had seen it on public roads. No occurrence ever happened and no ticket was ever issued for such an event. Even after discussing my situation with Archuleta County representatives they forced me into getting my skid steer licensed plated or they were going to impound it. They sent the sheriff to my residence to inform me of this. So, instead of going through the hassle of getting my skid steer out of impoundment and all the fees associated with that, I licensed the skid steer.
The rules and regulations were then sent to me from DMV Denver. They stated as long as the machine was on a trailer or your own private property, it did not require plates. So what I'm asking is for the county to refund everyone's money that were forced into getting these license plates for their machinery before the law truly required it. I feel I was ruled on based on the county's need to try to raise extra money. Not on the law.
It's too bad that Madrid lacked the character to follow up the DMV department in Denver when the information was handed to her. Hopefully, next election someone will give her a run for our money.
Ernest Gallegos
Editor's note: There was no letter from June Madrid printed in last week's SUN. The comments were part of a news article.

Time to go
Dear Editor:
What time is it? It's time for Ms. Zaday to resign her position as county commissioner. Last week's letter from Emily Dietz all too clearly described how little county taxpayers are getting for their money when Ms. Zaday picks up her paycheck.
In December, Ms. Zaday said, "... I will move forward and do what I need to for Archuleta County, because I represent the voters, not just the Republican Central Committee." With an apparent conflict of interest now looming over her commissioner's seat, she is not representing the voters are promised.
Ms. Zaday's recent DWAI incident, collapse of support from fellow county Republicans, and now a potential conflict of interest that prevents her from representing all her constituents, means it's now time for her to go. Archuleta County has far too much work to do for her to continue to waste the taxpayers' money and time.
Jeff Greer

Roadless lands
Dear Editor:
I am writing to express the Colorado Backcountry Hunters and Anglers' (CBHA) opposition to the Owen's Roadless Petition, which, although having many admirable points, we feel is flawed in several significant ways and consequently detrimental to Colorado's wildlands and wildlife, and hence hunters and anglers.
Coloradans want our wild, roadless public lands to stay that way. This was demonstrated unequivocally by the outpouring of support for the 2001 Roadless Rule. During public comment on this rule, over 28,000 of us submitted comments to the U.S. Forest Service, and 26,000 of them, or 92 percent, requested the complete protection of all roadless areas in Colorado.
Despite broad public support and the importance of these areas for outdoor recreation, fishing, hunting, and family outings, the Bush administration attempted to repeal the Roadless Rule and replace it with a state-by-state petition process. In response, as you know, the Colorado legislature established the Roadless Areas Task Force in 2005. However, it should be noted that in 2004 over 60,000 Coloradans wrote to the Forest Service asking that the 2001 rule not be reversed and substituted with a state petition process.
With this in mind, we believe that the Owen's Roadless Petition is not acceptable, in particular with regard to coal and ski lands losses and wording that seems designed to facilitate the expansion of commercial backcountry logging under the guise of disease and fire control. For example, the petition removes protections from some 82,000 acres for development of ski areas and coal mining, both of which can be sufficiently accommodated under the 2001 Roadless Rule provisions. Protection is also removed from approximately 300,000 acres of roadless areas because of inventory discrepancies.
Mark Konishi, deputy director of the Colorado Division of Wildlife (DOW), said the position of the DOW employees was that designated roadless areas should be maintained at the status quo. Specifically, DOW's report said: "... when the final compilation of public comment was tallied by the Roadless Areas Task Force, an overwhelming 91 percent of Coloradans declared support for keeping our roadless areas free from injurious road construction and motorized access." One little girl sent a drawing of a truck driving over trees and wrote, "I don't think the forest should be destroyed." Neither do we.
There are 14.5 million acres of Forest Service land in Colorado. Wilderness areas account for 3.3 million of those acres, roadless areas 4.4 million, and the rest is open for mixed use, including off-road recreation and energy exploration. Without protection equivalent to, or greater than, the current 2001 Roadless Rule, deer and elk ultimately will be pushed farther back into dwindling sanctuaries and vital native trout habitat sullied by erosion, further degrading Colorado's already tarnished wildlands heritage and image.
It's time for hunters and anglers, climber and hikers, outdoorsmen and women and everyone who values what little remains of our wild public lands to take a stand. As one concerned hunter, Ian Reid, said: "For me, it's not enough anymore to simply hunt and fish and consume natural resources; I must speak up for them." So must we all.
Sincerely,
David A. Lien
Colorado Springs

Fair treatment
Dear Editor:
A letter of thanks to the staff at the Archuleta County Detention Center. I recently spent 30 days incarcerated at our local downtown facility. While I have no one to blame but myself for the circumstances that caused my arrival at said facility, I do want to take the time to thank the staff that I came into contact with while there. The treatment I received from the D.O. officers surprised me. I was treated with respect, fairness and humanity. These people are no different than you and I. They are someone's son, daughter, brother, sister, mom, dad and even a grandparent or two. They cry, laugh and love just like us. They merely hold down a "different" type of job. I never felt they enjoyed the fact that I was locked up. As long as I treated them with the same respect I expected, and gave in return. Though I hope and expect not to return, I just wanted to say "thanks."
Sincerely,
Lynn Sandoval

Defeatists
Dear Editor:
On 20 January, there was a debate between the leftist mayor of London, Ken ("Red Ken") Livingstone and American Middle East authority Daniel Pipes. Red Ken is well-known for his virulent anti-American views, and being a sympathizer of radical Islamic jihadists, he is a strong critic of the U.S. and British role in the war in Iraq.
In the debate (in which the majority of several thousand Londoners who attended judged Pipes as the winner), Pipes argued that London had become a sanctuary for international terrorism. He noted the train bombings on 7 July 2005, the British tolerance of Islamic clerics who use mosques and Internet cafes to incite violence and to recruit volunteers for their ever-growing terrorist networks.
Pipes equated Islamic terrorists with modern day "ideological barbarians" who seek to dominate through terror and to silence or destroy any type of dissent. I would like to add to this my own description of Islamic terrorists: I think they are the very dregs of society, a society which, if we the American people do not begin to take them more seriously, will soon constitute a threat unparalleled in our history.
To my dismay, however, I see us making accommodations to these terrorists much as the Europeans have, for fear we might offend Muslim sensitivities. (In January, the British Foreign Office directed cabinet ministers to desist in using the words "war on terror" for fear it might offend British Muslims.) Some Americans, like the Europeans, seem more concerned about a terrorist's rights than the potential threat they represent to our security. Also, many Americans seem to either refuse to believe Islamic terrorists exist here in the U.S. with an intent to do us harm, or, they find it too discomforting to think about it, rationalizing that if they don't think about it, perhaps the threat will somehow be diminished. The simple fact is, they do exist, they are determined to win, their numbers are growing and the war in Iraq is a training ground for many of them.
We have been involved in the war in Iraq for three years now, and the majority of the congressional Democrats and a handful of errant Republicans are urging us to give up the fight and somehow find an "honorable" way out. Most of the Democrats claim the public is behind them, but these defeatists do not speak for me. We must show the resolve and commitment it takes to win because if we don't, the 3,000 soldiers we have lost to date will pale in comparison to how many soldiers - and civilians - we will surely lose in the future. (Consider for a moment that we lost almost 3,000 citizens in just one terrorist act on 9/11 2001.) If we pull out of Iraq prematurely, it will give every Islamic terrorist group in the world a signal that the American people do not have the will to defend what they stand for, that we can be beaten by a ragtag bunch of barbarians who kill women and children indiscriminately, justifying it in the name of Allah. Winning the war in Iraq is a strategic element of winning the war against terrorism and for this reason we must support our president and the men and women who are fighting for us, thereby securing American national security in the 21st century.
Gary Stansbury

Preview Calendar

Feb. 16
Network meeting
An all-members meeting for the Pagosa Health and Wellness Network will take place at 6 p.m. at the community center in the North conference room. Directories will be available for pickup. Anyone interested in knowing more about the Pagosa Health and Wellness Network is invited to come. Registration for the open house and party taking place Saturday, Feb. 24, will be required of members who wish to participate. Call Sophia at 903-2108 or Karen at 731-0980 for further information.

Feb. 16
Talent show
The Pagosa Springs High School key Club talent show will be held 7- 9 p.m. in the high school auditorium. Suggested donation is $3; proceeds go to Children of Peace International.

Feb. 17
Free ECA workshop
"An Introduction to Hand Drumming and Other Percussion," is set for 2 p.m. at the Pagosa Lakes Clubhouse. The workshop give participants a chance to see and play a wide variety of percussion instruments. Besides many unusual drums such as the Indian tabla and African clay udu, facilitator Carla Roberts will have marimbas, hammered dulcimer, mbiras and more, for everyone to play and experiment with. All ages are encouraged to attend this free workshop. Bring a drum if you have one. Call 731-3117 for more information.

Feb. 17
"Winter Song"
"Winter Song" is a community sing-along, potluck and social, 6 p.m. at the Pagosa Lakes Clubhouse. John Graves will lead sing-alongs, and a string band featuring violinist Kate Kelley, Paul and Carla Roberts and Bill Hudson will play some lively old-time dance tunes. Admission for adults is $5, children are free. Call 731-3117 for more information. Volunteers welcome.

Feb. 22
Relay for Life meeting
A Relay kick-off meeting will be held 6-7:30 p.m. in the Senior Center at the Pagosa Springs Community Center, 451 Hot Springs Blvd.
Free and open to the public, this event kicks off the American Cancer Society's Relay for Life to be held in Pagosa Springs in June. Refreshments, prizes and information on how to get involved with the local event will be provided. For more information, call Dick Babillis at 731-9263.

Feb. 23
Lenten fish fry
The Pagosa Springs Knights of Columbus will hold their annual Lenten Fish Fry every Friday from Feb. 23 to March 30, 5-7 p.m. at the Parish Hall on Lewis Street. Menu will include fried catfish, coleslaw, hush puppies homemade French fries, dessert and a choice of drink. Cost is $9 for adults, $5 for children under 12. Net proceeds go to charitable projects.

Feb. 24
Simulcast event
Beth Moore Live Simulcast Event, based on her new book "Get Out of That Pit," music by Travis Cottrell, 9 a.m. to 2:30 p.m. at Centerpoint Church (formerly First Baptist Church), 2750 Cornerstone Drive.
Tickets are $20 (includes brunch. R.S.V.P. by Feb. 19. A reservation is required for child care.
For additional information or tickets contact Centerpoint Church at 731-2205.

Feb. 24
Pagosa Singles
Pagosa Singles will meet for breakfast at Victoria's Parlor at 9:30 a.m. All singles 40-plus are invited. Please R.S.V.P. to Janice at 731-1803.
Submit your calendar items to editor@pagosasun.com, mail them to The Pagosa Springs SUN, P.O. Box 9, Pagosa Springs CO 81147, or deliver them to The SUN office, by noon Monday.

PSHS Key Club to present talent show

By Shanti Johnson
Special to The PREVIEW
The Pagosa Springs High School Key Club, a branch of the Kiwanis Club, is sponsoring its annual community talent show. The show will take place at 7 p.m. Friday, Feb. 16, in the Pagosa Springs High School auditorium All ages and talents are welcome to perform. Entry forms are available at each local school office, the Chamber of Commerce, the library, and the community center. Applicants are requested to return their completed form to Rosie Lee, who can be reached at 264-6506.
Last year's talent show was stunning, and this year's should be no exception. A few of last year's performers will return to the stage to entertain. This is another opportunity for both the starlets and the audience to partake in an enjoyable evening. Proceeds from the show will help benefit the worldwide organization, Children for Peace International. The Key Club asks for your support.

ECA presents 'Winter Song'

By Paul Roberts
Special to The PREVIEW
Elation Center for the Arts presents "Winter Song," a hoedown, sing-along, potluck social at 6 p.m. Saturday, at the Pagosa Lakes Clubhouse.
"I love the idea of families getting together and utilizing music as a part of their fellowship," says Pagosa celebrity John Graves. Graves will lend his inventive piano elegance and sterling personality to the festivities.
A genuine, old time sing-along, dance-along and eat-along, "Winter Song" features lots of opportunities to get into the action with some of our community's stalwart song leaders, dancers and musicians. Delicious recipes from across the village will set taste buds and inspiration soaring.
An old-time band will play for sing-alongs and folk dancing: John Graves on piano; Kate Kelley on viola and violin; Bill Hudson on bass, guitar and kitchen sink; Paul and Carla Roberts on banjos, charango, mandolin and guitar.
Shanti Johnson, Larry Elginer and Sally Yates will head up the song leading team, bringing our voices together in splendid harmony (with the aid of song sheets for everyone). Expect some of the current hits like "Home On the Range" and "Tumbling Tumbleweeds."
Peter and Susan Coe will teach a folk dance and a polka. ECA students will perform compositions of Native American flute, hand percussion and clogging.
Gene Autry will come, disguised as Larry Elginer, and sing some of those old cowboy tunes we all long for.
Sally Yates will make sure we keep are smiles on and to remind us we're living out West in a time warp.
Shanti Johnson brings her flair for dancing, singing and happiness to "Winter Song." Her optimism, enthusiasm and fascination with the world are immediately apparent. Shanti has been acting, dancing and singing her way through theatrical productions since first grade. She is an outstanding achiever in drama, choir and public speaking. She also has a strong classical music background.
A high school senior, who sports a cool 4.0 grade average, Shanti is very interested in the study of ancient cultures. She speaks of traveling the world, as an archeologist, in search of wonders. For now, we're lucky she's living in Pagosa.
Expect be lots of surprises and fun at "Winter Song," when we sample each other's cooking and swap howdy's at 6 p.m. Saturday.
A suggested donation of $5 for adults goes towards rental of the clubhouse. Children attend free.
Pagosa Lakes Clubhouse is located at 230 Port Ave. in the Vista subdivision of Pagosa Lakes. Take U.S. 160 to Vista Boulevard. Turn north on Vista and left on Port.
"Winter Song" is sponsored by Elation Center for the Arts, a local nonprofit striving to preserve our cultural heritage through community concerts, music classes and arts in the schools. For more information, log on to elationarts.org or call 731-3117.

Free ECA world percussion workshop Saturday

By Paul Roberts
Special to The PREVIEW
Join in the fun at 2 p.m. Saturday at the Pagosa Lakes Clubhouse. Carla Roberts will bring a vast array of percussion instruments from around the world for everyone to learn about and play.
Did you know that the percussion family of musical instruments is so vast that it includes melodic instruments such as the marimba and hammered dulcimer? That the modern Irish drum called the "bodhran" was descended from the tambourine? Some of the unusual hand drums on display for this workshop are the Indian tabla, the African clay udu drum, as well as frame and goblet drums from around the world.
A hand drum is any type of drum that is typically played by striking it with the bare hand rather than a stick, mallet, hammer, or other type of beater. The simplest type of hand drum is the frame drum, which consists of a shallow, cylindrical shell with a drumhead attached to one of the open ends.
Anyone can drum. It is an appealing activity for young and older, but did you know that drumming is also good for you? Recently, Neurologist Barry Bittman, M.D., and his renowned research team discovered that a specific group drumming approach significantly increased the disease fighting activity of circulating white blood cells (Natural Killer cells) that seek out and destroy cancer cells and virally-infected cells.
This free workshop is sponsored by Elation Center for the Arts, a local nonprofit dedicated to preserving our cultural heritage. All ages are encouraged to attend. Bring a drum if you have one. Call 731-3117 for more information.
Pagosa Lakes Clubhouse is located at 230 Port Ave. in the Vista subdivision of Pagosa Lakes. Take U.S. 160 to Vista Boulevard Turn north on Vista and left on Port.

Lifelong Learning lectures resume in March

By Biz Greene
Special to The PREVIEW
The spring schedule of Saturday afternoon Lifelong Learning lectures at the Sisson Library is now taking shape, and will again feature speakers from the Professional Associates of Fort Lewis College.
Two of the Mesa Verde Centennial Book Series lectures, sponsored by Colorado Humanities, the Ballantine Family Fund, BYU Charles Redd Center and the LaPlata County Historical Society will also be featured. Kathleen Fiero, archeologist, opens the series on March 3 with "Dirt, Water, Stone: A Century of Preserving Mesa Verde."
Duane Smith follows on March 10 with "Women to the Rescue: Creating Mesa Verde National Park."
Completing the March and April schedule will be lectures on "Impending Climate Catastrophe," "The Cultural and Biological Basis of Belief," "Exploding Myths and Fluid Truths about Volcanoes," "The Nature of Human Language," "A Short History of Political Cartooning," and "Reading the Trees: Arborglyphs."
Last fall, programs that launched the Lifelong Learning programs in Pagosa attracted 368 local residents for topics such as preserving western history, creative expression in old age, writing your memoir, Sudoku, and how an artist looks at art.
All lectures are hosted by the Sisson Library at 3 p.m. on Saturdays.
The lectures and other Lifelong Learning programs are free and open to the public.

Music in the Mountains benefit celebrates songwriting team

By Carole Howard
Special to The PREVIEW
If you love Broadway and film musicals, want to hear award-winning show tunes sung by five up-and-coming young Broadway and opera performers, and support Music in the Mountains programs in Pagosa Springs, please mark Saturday, June 16, on your calendar.
This opening event of the 2007 Music in the Mountains season in Pagosa will put a smile on your face and renew your musical memories. That's because the show tunes on the program, all written by legendary lyricists Betty Comden and Adolf Green, include such all-time favorites as "Just in Time," "The Party's Over," "Make Someone Happy," "New York, New York," "Neverland," "It's Love," "Lonely Town" and "Some Other Time."
You may not know Comden's and Green's names, even though they are the longest-running creative partnership in theater history, but you definitely know their music. They collaborated with Leonard Bernstein and Jerome Robbins on what was the first show for all of them, "On the Town," resulting in their first major hit, "New York, New York." Also with Bernstein, they wrote the score for "Wonderful Town."
They co-wrote the book and lyrics with Jule Styne for "Bells Are Ringing," "Hallelujah, Baby," "Do Re Mi," "Subways Are For Sleeping," "Peter Pan" and others. They also wrote the book for "Applause," and the book and lyrics for "On the Twentieth Century" and "A Doll's Life." Four of these shows won them five Tony awards and another Tony nomination.
Their many film musicals include "Singin' in the Rain," "The Band Wagon," "On the Town," "Bells Are Ringing," "It's Always Fair Weather," "Good News" and "The Barclays of Broadway." Two received Academy Award nominations. "Singin' in the Rain" recently was voted one of the 10 best American films ever made.
Stars the Comden-Green team have written for in their musicals and films include Gene Kelly, Fred Astaire, Lauren Bacall, Rosaline Russell, Judy Holliday, Mary Martin, Phil Silvers and Carol Burnett.
This special evening will take place at the Moomaw ranch in Echo Canyon Ranch. Their indoor riding arena, under construction now, will be transformed into a temporary performance center for Music in the Mountains before the Moomaws' horses get a chance to move into their new home. Benefit guests also will enjoy spectacular panoramic views of the mountains and valley from the outdoor patio.
Another treat at this benefit evening will be performances by five brilliant, young performers from New York City - Jerry Jean, Andrew MacPhail, Tracy Paul Muchesco, Michelle Nicklas and Morgan Springer. As they sing the Comden-Green hits, consider that they very well might become the Broadway, film and opera stars of tomorrow.
These talented young performers have been brought together by Broadway and opera star Carolann Page, who will host the musical part of the evening. Page, who came to worldwide attention as Pat Nixon in the Emmy and Grammy winning "Nixon in China," created "Carolann's Cabaret" to showcase up-and-coming musical theater stars.
In addition to the musical entertainment, the evening will include hors d'oeuvres and libations beginning at 6 p.m. Dress is as fancy as you please. Attendance is limited to 200 guests. Cost is $175 per person, $105 of which is tax-deductible as a donation.
Tickets will be available mid-April through the Pagosa Springs Chamber of Commerce Visitor Center in downtown Pagosa Springs (264-2360 or 800-252-2204). Pay by cash, check or credit card (MasterCard or Visa).
If you'd like to make the benefit a present for a special someone in your life, gift certificates are available at the Chamber now.
Proceeds from this extraordinary evening will help Music in the Mountains continue to provide music scholarships to Archuleta County youth, bring professional musicians into Pagosa schools for hands-on workshops, fund instrument purchase and repair programs for our school bands, and present spectacular classical concerts like the four orchestra and chamber concerts scheduled for BootJack Ranch in Pagosa Springs this July and August.
The funds also will help host the annual free summer Family Festivo concert for "kids of all ages" in Town Park. This year's free family concert on Tuesday, July 31, will feature "Peter and the Wolf" and "The Little Engine That Could."
Citizens Bank has made a generous contribution to the benefit, as they did last year.
Save the Date cards for Pagosa's gala benefit will be mailed by early March. If you want to be added to the invitation list, or want more information on Music in the Mountains concerts in Pagosa Springs, contact Annee Kuehler at 264-1110 or pagosa@musicinthemountains.com.

Health and Wellness Network to host open house and party

By Sonya Flores Lugo
Special to the PREVIEW
Pagosa Health and Wellness Network will host an open house starting at noon, and an evening party starting at 5 p.m., Saturday, Feb. 24, at the fair building on U.S. 84.
During the open house, holistic practitioners and conventional health care Providers will be on hand to explain the different healing modalities.. Five-minute presentations on the half hour will give the public an overview of all that is available to them within this network. Free gifts certificates for half-hour consultations will be given to the public.
The community will pick up valuable information that supports complimentary medical health care with the assistance of holistic practitioners covering a wide spectrum of healing methods. Ancient and modern day methods will be revealed. Exciting breakthroughs in the mind/body connection will clarify how inseparable these two disciplines really are in affecting our health and well being. The latest quantum and holographic healing methods will demonstrate where science meets spirituality, as a way of enhancing present-day health. Even the soul won't be overlooked in how it supports higher-level consciousness that enhances physical health and vitality on every level.
It is easier to maintain a healthy lifestyle than to combat illness once it compromises your health. The open house will provide an overview of all that has become available to Pagosans within a diversified and interesting population of health care providers.
Following the open house, a potluck community party begins at 5 p.m. Everyone is invited. A potluck will assure a diversity of dishes for an all-out "fun fest" with food. Mark your dishes so your gourmet talents can be complimented. Dress in unique garbs and jewelry.
John Alex Tarbet will launch the party at 5 by playing the accordion and sax. Raas Eagle will join in with the guitar. John Graves will stir our memories on the piano. A chorus line of singers will entertain you. A night of joyful celebration will remind us that healing also takes place when we come together to create our own piece of heaven right here in Pagosa Springs.
Call Sophia at 903-2108 or Karen Kauffman at 731-0980 with any questions, or stop by the Chamber of Commerce Visitor Center to pick up a flyer with the full schedule of open house events.

Red Cross to laud hometown heroes

By Marilyn Hejny-Carithers
Special to The PREVIEW
January came and went in a blink of an eye; February will be gone before we know it.
The Southwest Colorado Chapter of the American Red Cross is now focusing on March - National Red Cross Month.
March is a time to celebrate the spirit of the National Red Cross - its employees, the many volunteers and donors who support the critical work across our nation, and those who contribute here in our community. The American Red Cross draws its very identity and its strength from the millions of everyday heroes who donate their time, their blood (and often their sweat and tears), as well as their financial resources. These are our Hometown Heroes, and are the face of the Red Cross, and its most valuable asset.
As the executive director of our local Southwest Colorado Chapter of the American Red Cross, I am continually amazed to see to see how many of you, our own hometown heroes, live and volunteer here. I am honored to be working with you every day. In March the Southwest Colorado Chapter will host a volunteer appreciation party for our local heroes. I am excited to publicly recognize our volunteers.
Our volunteers, and they are heroes, responded to the Central Hotel fire in Durango, and then to the Whispering Pine Hotel fire. They also responded to several house fires through out the year. They teach our own community members to save lives. They get urgent messages to our loved ones serving overseas in our armed forces. They come into our offices here in Durango and help us answer our phones. These are our own heroes, our volunteers, who live among us and ask for no recognition, and no thanks. They volunteer only to help strengthen our community.
Our plans for our March celebration are still in the works, and I would like to invite you all to come and join us in our recognition of these amazing people. Call us to R.S.V.P. at 259-5383. We'll have more information on the time and place in the coming weeks, so watch for more details. Thank you for your continuing support, and please let us know if you want to help us honor our hometown heroes.
The Southwest Colorado Chapter of the American Red Cross is a humanitarian organization, led by volunteers, that provides free relief to victims of disasters and helps people prevent, prepare for and respond to emergencies. It does this through gifts of time and money from the American people. If you are interested in donating or becoming a volunteer, contact the Southwest Colorado Chapter at (970) 259-5383 or visit online at www.swcoloradoredcross.org.

It's not about bowling!

Big Brothers Big Sisters' annual bowling fund-raiser is scheduled for March 16 and 17 at the La Plata Fairgrounds in Durango.
And, yes, it's not "real" bowling, but ... it's not about the bowling. It's about having fun to help the kids.
In 2006, the local BBBS agency matched 245 children to caring adult mentors, and with your help they can continue to make a positive impact on the lives of children in southwest Colorado.
It's fun and it's easy. Your team of four bowlers will collect pledges and bowl for one assigned hour. There'll be regulation size balls and pins, food, music, hourly door prizes and best costume prizes.
To find out more, call the BBBS office at 247-3720 or visit the Web site at www.bbig.org.

Oneness Deeksha events set for March

By Nicole and Hasyo Yates
Special to The PREVIEW
"Oneness Deeksha" has come at this critical time in humankind's history as our planet is going through a major evolutionary transition. All of the old teachings have prophesied about this time, whether it is called the "Fifth World," the "End of the World," the "Satya Yaga," the "Golden Age," the "Aquarian Age" or the "End of the Mayan Calendar." This transition is greatly impacting our environment as well as our individual and collective consciousness. As the veil is beginning to dissolve between the spiritual and material worlds, we will all be seeing signs of change politically, socially, and spiritually throughout the world. Also, each one of us will be experiencing changes individually.
Awareness is very important during this time, as it will make the journey more harmonious. One of the ways to help facilitate this transition is to receive Oneness Deeksha. The mission of the founders of Oneness University is to help us with this transformation by offering Full Awakening to the masses through Oneness Deeksha. This is an incredibly exciting time to be alive, because eventually we will witness all of humanity shifting into the Golden Age of Oneness.
When we receive Oneness Deeksha, a neurobiological shift is initiated within the brain. When this is complete, one is free of all kind of sufferings, and is in a permanent state of causeless joy, inner calmness, and experience Oneness with all of existence.
Oneness Deeksha is not a concept, but is experiential. Come and experience Oneness Deeksha, and see for yourself!
We gather on the second and fourth Thursday of each month, from 7 to 9 p.m., at the Unitarian-Universalist Hall located in Greenbriar Plaza, Unit B-15 (southeast corner of North Pagosa Boulevard and Park Avenue). The next gatherings are March 8 and 22.
Also, there is an Oneness Deeksha event on the first Saturday of each month, from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m., at the Heritage Building located at 468 Pagosa St. Suite A. The next session is March 3.
For more information, call Nicole or Hasyo at 731-5658.

Hospice of Mercy holds annual Soup for the Soul event

Hospice of Mercy invites the public to lunch Friday, March 2, at the second annual Soup for the Soul event.
Attendees will have the opportunity to enjoy soups from three of the area's finest caterers: Christine's Cuisine, Eddie B Cookin' and Wildflower Catering Company.
There will be a small silent auction of artwork, as well as a short program presented by Hospice of Mercy. Seating is limited and tickets are $20 per person. All proceeds go directly to helping hospice patients.
Soup for the Soul 2007 will be held at the Pagosa Springs Community Center in the gymnasium, and will begin at noon. Tickets can be purchased in advance at Moonlight Books or WolfTracks Bookstore & Coffee, or by calling the Hospice of Mercy Office at (970) 761-9190.
Mercy Home Health and Hospice of Mercy are part of the Centura Health at Home family that provides home care nursing, hospice care, home infusion, oxygen services and home medical equipment throughout Colorado. The organization provides care to more than 20,000 patients each year and has locations in Denver, Colorado Springs, Pueblo, Canon City and Durango.
For more information on Soup for the Soul contact Hospice of Mercy at 731-9190.

Masquerade gala to support Teen Center

By Chuck McGuire
Staff Writer
How about supporting a fun, safe and secure hangout for area teens? How about enjoying an adult evening of elegance, intrigue, mystery and dance? How about attending a masquerade gala?
In one fell swoop, you can accomplish all at the Pagosa Springs Community Center March 17. Teen Center Coordinator Rhonda LaQuey and community center Administrative Assistant Michelle Jamison will cosponsor the event from 6-11 p.m., and Bobby Hart will provide musical entertainment. Admission is $20 per person in advance, or $25 at the door.
In Italy, during the 15th century Renaissance, upper-class citizens attended elaborate masquerade galas in full costume. In an air of secrecy and mystery, masked guests concealed their identity, thus befuddling fellow revelers and relaxing the rigid customs of daily etiquette normally reserved for social functions of the time. Attendees danced with whom they pleased, flirted with anyone they dared and thoroughly enjoyed themselves without initiating scandal.
The March 17 gala is limited to those 21 years of age or older and features, among other things, "exquisite" appetizers, free of charge. A cash bar will include wines intricately paired with the savory and sweet delights offered.
Choice of attire is left to guests, but should be consistent with a nice evening on the town. Of course, a mask is required, and those without may order one at the community center Monday through Friday, from 9:30 a.m. to 6:30 p.m. All masks are individually crafted and vary between $10 and $40, depending on design complexity. Mask orders must be in by 6:30 p.m. Friday, Feb. 23.
Certainly, excitement and intrigue are reasons enough to attend a masquerade gala, but the March 17 affair will also generate vital financial support for the Teen Center located in the Pagosa Springs Community Center. As a non-profit organization, the Teen Center operates solely on revenues from special functions and outside contributions, which are tax-deductible. Today, the long list of Teen Center needs ranges from volunteer assistance to general office supplies and updated game room equipment.
For more information on the March 17 gala, ordering masks or contributing to the Teen Center, contact Rhonda LaQuey at 264-4152 (Ext. 31) from 3:30 to 6:30 p.m. Monday through Friday, or call Michelle Jamison at 264-4152 (Ext. 21) from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m., Tuesday through Saturday.
An evening of masquerade awaits you … and you can help support area teens.
chuck@pagosasun.com

9Health Fair volunteers needed

By Pauline Benetti
Special to The PREVIEW
The 28th annual 9Health Fair will take place throughout the month of April at more than 175 sites around Colorado. Here in Pagosa, it will take place April 7, the at the Pagosa Springs High School.
9Health Fair delivers free and low-cost health awareness and educational screenings to individuals 18 years of age and over. Since 1980, 1.7 million people have taken advantage of 9Health Fair to protect their health as a result of early detection, prevention, and dynamic educational programming statewide.
Basic screenings at all fair locations include the 31-component blood chemistry analysis which screens cholesterol, triglycerides, high-density lipoprotein (HDL), low-density lipoprotein (LDL), glucose, thyroid (TSH), kidney and liver function, and more. ($35). During the same blood analysis, men age 40 and older can receive a prostatic specific antigen (PSA) screening ($25).
New this year at our site is a blood count screening to determine the overall health of your blood ($15). Colon cancer screening take-home kits ($5), and free height, weight, body mass index, vision, and blood pressure screenings are also available. Other optional free screenings such as oral, hearing, body in balance, breast exam, bone density and more can be accessed as well.
As Colorado's largest community health fair program, and the largest community health, wellness and prevention effort in the nation, since 1980, 9Health Fair has helped save thousands of lives by providing free and low-cost health screenings and educational programs. Created by a National Institutes of Health physician, 9Health Fair is a non-profit, 501 (c) (3) organization and has earned unique endorsements from the Colorado Medical Society and the Colorado Nurses Association and is supported by the Colorado Health and Hospital Association.
Fair organizers in Pagosa have already begun to make phone calls to last year's volunteers. Over 200 individuals are needed to assist the more than 700 participants who are expected to make the 9Health Fair part of their health practice. If you would like to take part in this rewarding event, in either a medical or non-medical capacity, call Sharee Grazda, site coordinator, at 731-0666.

'Words, Words, Words' at UU service

The Pagosah Unitarian Universalist Fellowship service Sunday, Feb. 18, will feature the Reverend Liz McMaster, from Rio Rancho, N.M.. She will deliver a sermon entitled "Words, Words, Words."
She asks, "Why is it that Unitarian Universalists, among the most highly educated groups in America, stumble over words, specifically religious words?" McMaster goes on to say, "Let's tackle a biggie: 'worship.' We may touch on a few others that are hot buttons for lots of us."
McMaster serves as part-time interim minister at the UU Westside Congregation in Rio Rancho. She obtained the Master of Divinity degree from Harvard Divinity School in 1988. Currently, she is a member of the funding panel of the UU Women's Federation and also serves as a consultant on racial and multi-cultural issues.
The service, children's program, and child care begin at 10:30 in the Fellowship Hall, Unit 15, Greenbriar Plaza. Turn east on Greenbrier Drive off of North Pagosa by the fire station, then left into the back parking lot and look for the big sign. All are welcome.

By Charles Streetman

PREVIEW Columnist

No column this week.

No column this week.

A great event requires great volunteers

By Mercy Korsgren
PREVIEW Columnist
The Valentine's dance last week was a huge success. Everyone had a great time and what a great crowd we had!
Thank you all for supporting your center's first fund-raising event of the year.
A couple of attendees suggested that I relate what it takes to hold such a wonderful event. So, here it is: It is a lot of work and involves many hours of staff and volunteer hours.
First, the committee decides on the following: the date, making sure (with the help from the Chamber of Commerce) that there is no other event in conflict and/or competing with ours; the music, whether to have a band or a DJ; a theme; what food or snacks to serve; the ticket price; publicity strategy; and volunteers needed.
Then, Siri Schuchardt, the dance coordinator, starts the publicity effort. She does an excellent job - it's her expertise. She then recruits 12-15 volunteers for setup and helps decorate, which usually takes four to six hours. Dennis Ford, from the town crew, puts up the mirror ball and lights with his "cherry picker" early, before the volunteers arrive to set up and decorate. Takedown is a task that needs to be completed immediately after the dance; it is not a fun job to do, considering three to four hours of dancing earlier in the evening.
Siri just graduated from preparing the flyers and tickets and she delegated this job to her new recruit, Susan McAdams. Tari Woods and Michelle Jamison distribute the flyers all over town. We also send the tickets to other ticket sale outlets to make it convenient for the public to purchase their ticket.
Pam Stokes, decoration chairperson, with the help of her husband, Earl, works on the decorations. The job is to transform the gym into an attractive and theme-appropriate dance hall.
The food committee is headed by one of the center staff, until one brave person steps forward to do this job. New recruits Erma and Miguel Porras and Anne Core helped last week and are committed to continue to lend their hands. Three to five volunteers are needed in this job. One of us supervises the cooking and baking the day before the dance while Michelle supervises the serving of the food during the event. She makes sure the food is served in an attractive way. After the event, the kitchen has to be cleaned and kept tidy and organized.
After the dance, a volunteer comes in to make sure the dance decorations and other supplies and materials related to the dance are returned properly to their plastic containers.
Most of these volunteers work before, during and after the dance because they enjoy what they're doing.
The center is very lucky and grateful to have such a group of dedicated, hardworking and enthusiastic volunteers, who also love dancing.
Masquerade gala
This is an adult dance to benefit the Pagosa Teen Center. Rhonda LaQuey, Teen Center coordinator, and her volunteers are working hard to provide this fun event to the public. According to Rhonda, all you need to join in this evening of elegance, intrigue, mystery and dance, is a mask. You can stop by the Teen Center office, located here in the community center, to place an order for your mask from a specially designed catalog.
Mark your calendar -Saturday, March 17 from 6-11 p.m. at the community center. DJ Bobby Hart will provide music. Tickets are $20 per person or $25 at the door and the ticket price includes sumptuous and mouth-watering appetizers. A cash bar will be available. You can purchase tickets at WolfTracks, the Chamber of Commerce Visitor Center, the Teen Center office and the community center.
For more information, call Rhonda after 3:30 p.m. weekdays at 264-4152, Ext. 31 or talk to Michelle at Ext. 21.
Spring rummage sale
Hello, are you paying attention?
Don't wait too long, call the center and reserve your spot. It is always good to plan and prepare ahead. I know a couple of you talked to me a month ago while I was busy with other things, asking to reserve a specific spot. I said that you needed to check The SUN. Well, it's time.
The sale will be held 8:30 a.m.-1 p.m. Saturday, April 14, inside the multi-purpose room. It will be a one-day event. The center invites all those interested in making some money to join in this community sale. Non-profit organizations are welcome, too.
Snacks and beverages (hot and cold) will be available at reasonable prices.
Proceeds from this event will benefit center's free programs. Space assignments will be made on a first-come, first-served basis. Cost for a 10x10 space is $20. There has been no increase from last year's price. As a matter of fact, we're giving out a bonus, with increased space for the same price. Each vendor is entitled to a 3x6 table or more, provided there's enough for everyone.
Reserve your spot now and start cleaning out your cupboards, cabinets and garages. Or, check your attic for stuff you haven't used for some time - maybe it is time to get rid of things someone else can use. Call 264-4152.
AARP tax help
Bob Henley, one of the program volunteers, reports that after the first two weeks of the program they have assisted 25 people. Thirteen tax returns have been accepted, six people came in for questions and answers, and six came in for Colorado PTC - a state program that gives money back to very low income individuals based on property tax.
This year, telephone excise tax refunds are available for some long distance calls. If you've had a landline phone from 2003 to present, you may qualify for this refund.
The AARP Foundation is AARP's affiliated non-profit charity, helping communities all across America. The AARP Tax Aide program provides free tax preparation service for anyone age 60 and older, especially low and middle income individuals.
If you need help prepare your taxes sign-up at the desk located inside the Senior Dining Room. Help is available every Thursday from 8:30 a.m. to 5:30 p.m. AARP Tax Aide volunteers will be available to assist you during these hours. No phone reservation will be accepted.
Cowboy movies for March
The first movies to run as part of our new Movie Night program will be cowboy movies from the 1930s. Dan Senjem, our volunteer, will run "Come on Rangers," with Roy Rogers, and "Spring Time in the Rockies," with Gene Autry, 7-9 p.m. Monday, March 5. Each movie runs for an hour.
So, come to the center and be part of this awesome program. Bring a dessert to share and the community center will provide hot and cold beverages. At the first meeting, the group will decide what movies to show on March 19 This program will continue every first and third Monday of each month.
The center will need a volunteer to be chairperson for this free program each month. Anyone interested can choose any month except December during which to be in charge. Responsibilities include selection of the movie, pickup and return or the tape or disc, set up of the room (with a couple of tables and several chairs), and making sure attendees help take down afterwards. The volunteer may recruit a co-chair for assistance. Now is the time to join this winter indoor activity. Call 264-4152.
Beads, jewelry-making program
Today, from 10 a.m.-noon, Treva Wheeless and Rebekah Sabia will conduct an orientation meeting for jewelry making enthusiasts.
At this meeting, participants will talk about the details of the forthcoming classes, figure the group's interests, discuss tools needed and what is involved in beading jewelry. They will also exhibit some of their creations.
Those attending the orientation must be prepared to pay $20 per class of their choice to cover the cost of supplies. Students get to take home what they make.
Classes will be held March 1, 8 and 15, with each class different from the others. Student will learn about basic earrings and necklaces, basic pearl knotting and design with natural elements and cords.
Line dancing
Gerry writes, "What a delight to see one of our modest and quiet beginning couples turn into Fred and Ginger at the Valentine Dance last week. They went from our basic two-step and one, two, three waltz box on Monday mornings to one of the most spontaneous and exciting couple on the floor. It was delightful to watch them in completely natural in their musical feel.
"Hats off to Bob and Sharon and to all the Monday group out on the floor. It makes the ancient teacher a proud person.
"Tim Sullivan was great - as shown by the packed gym. Good times were had by all.
Happy birthday to a line dancing lady, Beverly. She is the anchor who never forgets the steps and keeps us all moving in the proper direction, more or less.
"Come join our group every Monday morning and meet some great Pagosa neighbors. Couples class starts at 9 a.m. and dine dancing at 10. Its fun and it's free.
Yoga
This free program meets every Tuesday from 10-11:30 a.m. and Diana Baird and Addie Greer lead the group. Diana and Addie are not yoga instructors; they just love to practice and encourage others to join them. This is a program where yogis come to do yoga. Practicing with other people gives one more dedication.
Susan Winter Ward writes in her book, Yoga for the Young Heart, "We all have heard that practice makes perfect, but in the case of a yoga practice, there is no perfection. The more consistent the practice, however, the more quickly the results will become evident. I've heard many new yoga students enthusiastically report that they felt relaxed, energized, and an inch taller after their first yoga class. Everyone's first yoga experience is a personal one, and the feelings and effects vary as one's practice unfolds. The results become more refined and subtle over time and remain forever powerful. A yoga practice is an ever-changing experience. Remember, today's practice will be different from tomorrow's; your right side is different from your left; and your body changes from moment to the next. Constant open-mindedness and allowing your body to be just the way it is at each moment will create an atmosphere of relaxation and acceptance in every moment of your practice.
"Begin slowly. You will discover how much time each week feels right for you. Consistency is important. It is better to do twenty minutes of yoga every day than two hours once a week. A balanced practice for one person may be one-and-a-half hours every other day; for another it may be a half hour every day. Throw away your rigid schedule, but be consistent. If you tune in and listen to your body, it will tell you what feels appropriate.
"It also helps to note benchmarks of progression in your practice. For example, make a mental note that your hand come just below your knees in a forward fold. Several weeks later you may notice that your hands come to the center of your shins. It's exciting to be able to look back and see how your body has changed".
Thank you, Susan, for loaning me your book and letting me share some of your thoughts with our readers.
Computer class
Classes are still on hold due to Becky's medical issues. Becky is still waiting for the results of her muscle biopsy. We will keep you posted of any development as soon as we hear from Becky. She asks that we continue to pray for her health and that she can come back to work soon. Get well, Becky!
Open gym
This is available every Tuesday and Thursday from 8-9 a.m. with Larry Page as contact person. Larry can be reached at 264-1024.
The other group meets every Friday from noon to 1:15 p.m. Call Dan Aupperle if you wish to join this group, 264-2235.
Scrapbooking
According to Melissa Bailey, the group met last Saturday, and had another productive meeting. It was enjoyable for her to be able to help people find their creative sides. They mainly worked on Valentine cards and Melissa demonstrated a few techniques like dry embossing and different ways to use a product called Pearl Ex Powder.
The next meeting is 10 a.m.-3 p.m. Saturday, March 10. If you wish to join this group or have questions, call Melissa at 731-1574. Scrapbooking class is another free program offered here at the center.
Center hours
The community center's winter hours are 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. Monday through Friday; Saturday, 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Call 264-4152.
A place to gather
The community center has several rooms for rent for all kinds of gatherings - meetings, seminars, parties, fund-raising events, etc. And, at reasonable prices. We have space for different size groups, and we also have most of the furniture and equipment you will need. Call 264-4152 to reserve a room for your next gathering.
Activities this week
Today - Hoopsters basketball, 8-9 a.m.; AARP Tax Help, 8:30 a.m.- 5:30 p.m.; Big Angelos workshop with Soledad, 9 a.m.- 4 p.m.; toddler's play group, 10 a.m.- noon; watercolor club, 10 a.m.- 3:30 p.m.; Sky High volleyball practice, 3:30-5 p.m.; Teen Center open, 3:30-6:30 p.m.; TOPS Tourism Board, 4-6 p.m.; youth basketball, 5:30-8:30 p.m.; Chimney Rock meeting, 6-8 p.m.; Trinity Anglican Church Bible study, 6:30-8:30 p.m.; Grace EV church meeting, 7-9 p.m.
Feb. 16 - Senior walk, 11:15-11:35 a.m.; Bridge-4-Fun, 12:30-4 p.m.; Teen Center open, 3:30-6:30 p.m.; open gym, noon-1:15; Pagosa Health and Wellness session, 6-9 p.m.
Feb. 17 - Betty Slade art critique, 9 a.m.-1 p.m.; Whispering Pines HOA, 10 a.m.- noon.
Feb. 18 - Grace Evangelical Free Church and Church of Christ services, 10 a.m.- noon; High Roads Baptist Church service, 6-8 p.m.; Fairfield Activities meeting, 6 - 8 p.m.
Feb. 19 - Line dancing, 9-11:30 a.m.; watercolor class, Intermediate 1, 9 a.m.-4 p.m.; senior walk, 11:15-11:35 a.m.; Bridge-4-Fun, 12:30-4:30 p.m.; youth basketball, 5:30-8:30 p.m.
Feb. 20 - Hoopsters basketball, 8-9 a.m.; watercolor class, Intermediate 1, 9 a.m.-4 p.m.; legal mediation, 9 a.m.-5 p.m.; yoga 10-11:30 a.m.; senior walk, 11:15-11:35 a.m.; Teen Center open, 3:30-6:30 p.m.; youth basketball, 5:30-8:30 p.m.
Feb. 21 - Legal mediation, 9 a.m.-5 p.m.; watercolor class, Intermediate 1, 9 a.m.-4 p.m.; senior walk, 11:15-11:35 a.m.; senior's Aikido class, 1-2 p.m.; Teen Center open, 3:30-6:30 p.m.; Weight Watchers, 5-6 p.m.; eBay class, 5:30-7:30 p.m.; youth basketball, 5:30-8:30 p.m.
Feb. 22 - Hoopsters basketball, 8-9 a.m.; AARP Tax Help, 8:30 a.m.-5:30 p.m.; watercolor class, Intermediate 1, 9 a.m.-4 p.m.; beads, jewelry-making orientation, 10 a.m.- noon; toddler's play group, 10 a.m.-noon; Teen Center open, 3:30-6:30 p.m.; youth basketball, 5:30-8:30 p.m.