Bid made on courthouse, talks continue

James Robinson

Staff Writer

Negotiations between a local developer and Archuleta County concerning the sale of the courthouse moved closer to a conclusion Tuesday.

Following a regular meeting of the Archuleta County Board of County Commissioners, the board entered into executive session to discuss the sale of the courthouse property, and the purchase offer put forth by Pagosa Holdings LLC.

Archuleta County Administrator Bob Campbell said Pagosa Holdings LLC is essentially Dave Brown and BootJack Management.

Following executive session, the board reconvened in a public session and voted two-to-one in favor of accepting Pagosa Holdings' offer with conditions. According to the motion and the vote, if the county's counteroffer is accepted, the sale will be approved.

Although Campbell would not disclose the deal's particulars, he said, "The offer has been accepted contingent on three factors. Staff is directed to negotiate those factors and they will be presented in a counteroffer. If our counteroffer is accepted, staff is directed to enter in to a sales agreement."

John Hundley of BootJack Management struck a similar chord.

"Until we are further along in the process, I would like to withhold comment," Hundley said.

With negotiations pending, Hundley would not discuss development possibilities for the site, although he did indicate they "have very preliminary conceptual plans."

Negotiations between Pagosa Holdings LLC and the county are the result of the county's request for bids to purchase the courthouse. According to Campbell, that request went out in early October, with an Oct. 31 deadline for responses. During that time, Campbell said, the request garnered just one response - from Pagosa Holdings LLC.

Since Pagosa Holdings LLC made their initial offer, Campbell said county staff and company representatives have been in negotiations, with the company's final offer presented Tuesday.

According to Campbell, the decision to sell the courthouse and move county offices to a new location began in 1999. Campbell said the intent of the move is to provide more modern, spacious facilities capable of serving county facility and citizen needs well into 2027. Campbell said the current courthouse is hamstrung by a number of issues, including spatial constraints and structural or design problems, such a chronically leaking roof.

"One of the big issues is that the jail does not meet current state or federal guidelines. It is a crisis situation waiting to happen," Campbell said.

Furthermore, Campbell laments the $100,000 spent each year for renting extra-courthouse space in order to accommodate departments, such as building and planning and social services that don't fit in the courthouse proper. He said operating six satellite offices is inefficient, both for citizens seeking services and for employee productivity when work time is spent shuttling staff between various offices.

Although Campbell was reluctant to speculate on a timetable for finalizing the deal, he said, "The sale gives the county ample time and the resources to plan and prepare for new county facilities."

Commissioners Bob Moomaw and Ronnie Zaday voted in favor of the counteroffer, while Commissioner Robin Schiro carried the dissenting vote.

Following the vote, Schiro said, "there are too many unknowns," and that a number of issues require resolution before finalizing the sale. Later, she said her "nay" vote was due in part, to unresolved questions regarding the building's historic status.

According to Town Planner Tamra Allen, although the courthouse is not formally designated as a historic landmark, the building does lie within the bounds of a historic district. Therefore, the property and its structures are governed by the town's historic preservation regulations found in Article 14 of the town's land use code.

Allen explained that within the district, buildings not officially landmarked were designated by the town's Historic Preservation Board as either "contributing," or "non-contributing" to the historic district. The courthouse is designated "contributing."

According to Allen, the preservation board made the determination based on criteria found in Article 14 used for the designation of historic landmarks. According to Article 14, landmark designation, using the same set of criteria, requires the property owner's written consent or application. The designation of "contributing" or "non-contributing" however, did not.

Although buildings not officially landmarked aren't governed by the full gamut of Article 14 regulations, Allen said the "contributing" or "non-contributing" distinction does carry weight.

"Non-contributing" buildings, Allen explained, have an easier path to approval for alteration, demolition or relocation, whereas "contributing" structures have to meet the criteria for alteration, demolition or relocation as described in Article 14. However, the town currently has a moratorium suspending permits for demolition, alteration, removal or modification of buildings 50 years old or older, which trumps Article 14 until April 1, 2007.

According to Campbell, "About a third of the building is 'historic' by virtue of being constructed in 1928."

Campbell added the other two-thirds of the courthouse were constructed in the 1980s to address jail issues. Since 1928, Campbell said the initial one-third had undergone "significant reinforcement" due to structural and other issues.

With the moratorium in place, anyone wishing to modify, demolish or relocate the courthouse, or any other "contributing" structure within the historic district, must prove the building is either structurally unsound, is an economic hardship to keep and maintain "as is," or lacks historic significance.

Under the moratorium, the property owner must make their case to the preservation board, with the town council making the final determination.

According to Allen and preservation board chair Shari Pierce, part of the intent of the moratorium was to allow time for the preservation board to fine-tune Article 14 such that it could better address the complexities of historic preservation, including incentives which might entice property owners to keep older buildings.

Apparently, that effort has been slow in the undertaking, and meetings between the preservation board and the town council regarding the retooling of Article 14 have not yet come to fruition.

Schools to share info with law enforcement

By Louis Sherman

Staff Writer

The Archuleta County School District 50 Joint Board of Education unanimously approved a Memorandum of Understanding with minimal changes Tuesday night, which will facilitate the exchange of student information with law enforcement agencies, if approved by county and town officials.

Under the Memorandum of Understanding, the police and sheriff's department would agree to provide the school district with information regarding charges, adjudications and delinquency involving individual students. Agencies would report criminal or delinquent acts, threats or incidents that were determined to pose a public safety concern, in the opinion of the agency.

If local governments and the sheriff's department agree to the memorandum the school district has already signed, a student's law enforcement record would be made available to the superintendent and school principals. Under the agreement the police and sheriff's department would "allow a principal or superintendent, or their designee, of a school in which a student is or will be enrolled to inspect all law enforcement records concerning that student."

With the memorandum, the school district agreed to disclose student education records to help the justice system "effectively serve a student prior to adjudication," in the case of emergency health or safety concerns, to comply with a subpoena or to give information to county human services and law enforcement agencies when school officials have reasonable cause to suspect a student is being subjected to abuse or neglect.

The school district also agreed to provide attendance information, when necessary, to criminal justice agencies - in regard to investigations, adjudications and parole monitoring.

The memorandum requires school officials to report crimes and "acts compromising school safety" to law enforcement agencies - including menacing, theft, extortion, child abuse, knowingly false allegations of child abuse (directed at school staff), endangering public transportation, hazing, false imprisonment, inciting a riot, engaging in a riot, ethnic intimidation, false report of explosives and interference with students or faculty.

As first drafted, the section involving the report of crimes and acts compromising school safety was questioned by board member Ken Fox, who thought the language could force school officials to report less serious incidents that would be best handled in the schools, based on the circumstances.

"If we don't flesh out the language," he said, "we could end up with a big brother situation."

Principal David Hamilton commented that the high school currently has a good relationship with law enforcement officials, in which they communicate well and make decisions based on individual situations, with the student's well being in mind. Other principals echoed Hamilton's statement.

Fox suggested that the memorandum could limit and hinder the cooperation that is already in place.

The school board members discussed ways the wording could be changed to allow administrators to make decisions based on the situation, including the phrase "at the discretion of the principal, per school policy."

The phrase met wide approval until assistant superintendent, and past high school principal Bill Esterbrook pointed out that putting legal decisions at a principal's discretion could raise liability issues.

The first portion of the phrase was dropped, and it was agreed that the memorandum would be revised to state that crimes and acts compromising school safety would be reported to law enforcement agencies "according to district policy."

Superintendent Duane Noggle said the extensive district school policy would provide clear definition of the acts compromising school safety, which were not clearly criminal - thus guiding school officials as to what incidents should be reported.

Fox moved to approve the memorandum with the brief revision, and the measure was unanimously approved.

The Memorandum of Understanding will now be sent to town and county officials for their consideration and possible approval.

In other business, Noggle outlined the progress of the Facilities Master Plan. The school board entered into contract with Blythe Design this fall to begin the project, which will establish a plan for renovation, development and construction of district facilities. Noggle will meet with Blythe today to finalize plans, but meetings with staff, the community and a steering committee will be a part of the process. The master plan will likely be completed in late spring, said Noggle.

At the request of Sheila Berger, special projects director for the county, the school board voted to direct $20,000 toward the completion of a Regional Parks, Recreation, Open Space and Trails Master Plan. The school district entered into an intergovernmental agreement (IGA) with the town and county in 2004 to support joint development projects, which benefit the constituents of all entities, and facilitate grant funding. This year, the district's $20,000 commitment to the IGA was dedicated to the master plan, by Tuesday's vote, which will facilitate future construction projects and grants. Berger said money would likely be left over after completion of the master plan (budgeted at $85,000), which could go toward a project focused to the school district next year.

Snowpack below average, ahead of last year

By Chuck McGuire

Staff Writer

What a difference a year makes.

Even though the combined snowpack in the San Miguel, Dolores, Animas and San Juan river basins was just 77 percent of the 30-year average by Jan. 1, it was 163 percent of last year's total on the same date. According to a report issued by the Natural Resources Conservation Service, some measuring sites in southern Colorado have recently recorded snowpacks of two to four times that of a year ago.

By the first of the year, the statewide snowpack was 96 percent of average, and 94 percent of that recorded on Jan. 1, 2006. Snowpack totals ranged from a high of 128 percent (of average) in the South Platte basin, to our low of 77 percent in southwestern Colorado.

According to Allen Green, state conservationist with the NRCS, "The late-December blizzards helped boost the South Platte and Arkansas basins to the highest basin-wide percentages in the state."

In a press release dated Jan. 5, NRCS data collection office supervisor Mike Gillespie said, "December's weather contributed to a dramatic shift in snowpack patterns across the state. After the storm cycle, snowpack percentages are the highest along the Front Range of the South Platte and Arkansas basins, and taper off to below average across the mountains of western Colorado."

"In addition," Gillespie said, "across the South Platte, Arkansas and Rio Grande basins, the sites at the lower elevations are reporting the highest percents of average snowpack."

"That's certainly a pattern we rarely see across the state," said Green. "However, it's expected after receiving two back-to-back upslope blizzards which have pounded the eastern plains."

So far, based on the shift Gillespie described in his press release, portions of southern Colorado have fared much better this year than last.

"This has been a welcome change for these water users who were faced with well below average snowpack totals last year," said Green.

In light of current snowpack conditions, the South Platte and Arkansas basins appear poised for an above-average spring runoff. Southern Colorado, on the other hand, may end up with one near average, but significantly improved over last year.

Of course, the amount of moisture within the snowpack at any given time is of greatest concern. The NRCS publishes a Snow-Precipitation Update daily, and yesterday's release reflected a current Snow Water Equivalent of 9.6 inches in the Upper San Juan River Basin.

That amount was only 66 percent of average for the date, yet for the season since Oct. 1, 19.8 inches of total precipitation had been recorded at the same site, which equaled 115 percent of average for Jan. 10.

Snow Water Equivalent (SWE) represents the amount of moisture a snowpack contains at any given time, and Total Precipitation (TP) reflects how much water content has been measured at a given site over a specified period of time.

As of yesterday, the current SWE at the Wolf Creek Summit site was 15.0 inches, or 94 percent of average. Since Oct. 1, the TP there was 19.0 inches, or 110 percent of average. These figures suggest the present snowpack at the summit site is slightly dryer than normal, while this year's overall precipitation totals have actually exceeded the average, thus far.

In other basins across the state, the percent of average TP as of yesterday was as follows:

- Gunnison River - 114 percent.

- Upper Colorado River - 108 percent.

- South Platte River - 132 percent.

- Laramie and North Platte rivers - 99 percent.

- Yampa and White rivers - 90 percent.

- Arkansas River - 124 percent.

- Upper Rio Grande River - 113 percent.

- San Miguel, Dolores, Animas, and San Juan rivers - 110 percent.

In a related matter, statewide water storage as of Jan. 1 was 93 percent of average and 99 percent of last year's levels. Here in the combined San Juan, Animas and Dolores basins, reservoir storage was 110 percent of average, but only 97 percent of readings a year ago. Last year's water storage, together with a wet summer, saved southern Colorado from what could've been a disastrous wildfire season.

BoCC sets new meeting, public forum schedule

By James Robinson

Staff Writer

After being sworn in Tuesday morning, District 3 Archuleta County Commissioner Bob Moomaw took the bench in the afternoon with fellow commissioners Robin Schiro and Ronnie Zaday, and the three set to work establishing basic policies and procedures for 2007, including a rigorous meeting schedule for the new year.

First among the changes was Schiro's appointment to the position of board chair &emdash;Zaday held the post through much of 2006 - with Moomaw taking the vice chair seat. Second, the board broke from routine by establishing a four-meeting-per-month schedule for 2007.

As a holdover from 2006, the board will continue meeting at 1:30 p.m. on the first and third Tuesday of each month throughout 2007 to cast votes and conduct official county business. The key change, however, comes on the second and fourth Tuesday, when the board will meet informally at 2 p.m. in work session format to wrangle with issues they will face on the following Tuesday's agenda.

The work sessions will include an in-depth review of the coming agenda coupled with more comprehensive staff reports, background information, and according to Moomaw, will provide the commissioners an opportunity to informally discuss issues before they come up for vote.

Moomaw and Archuleta County Administrator Bob Campbell said although the work sessions will be duly noticed and are open to the public, no public comment will be taken during the work sessions, nor will the commissioners make decisions.

Public comment will be heard during the policy-making meetings on the first and third Tuesdays.

Unlike board of county commissioners' policy-making meetings, which happen at the same location every week - in the commissioner's meeting room in the courthouse - the work session locations will vary according to scheduling demands for the board of county commissioners' meeting room in the courthouse. Thus, those intent on learning the background behind forthcoming policy decisions will need to keep watch on the bulletin board in the hallway outside the commissioners' offices to stay abreast of work session locations. In addition, and also unlike regular board of county commissioners' meetings, and audio recording will not be made of the work sessions.

Although the town has no formal policy regarding audio recordings of work sessions, Town Clerk Deanna Jaramillo said following the recent installation of new electronic audio equipment in town council chambers, she has been regularly recording their work sessions.

In a second change of tack from 2006, the commissioners will also host a series of public forums at various locations around the county, including Chromo and Arboles, to hear citizen comments and concerns. The meetings are scheduled for months with five Tuesdays. The 2007 public forum schedule is as follows: Jan 30, at 7 p.m. in the Archuleta County Courthouse; May 29, in Arboles - time and location to be announced; July 31 in Chromo - time and location to be announced; and Oct. 30 in the courthouse.

In addition, at 6 p.m. Monday, Jan. 22, in the board of county commissioners' meeting room, planning staff will provide an update on the progress of county big box regulations. The public is invited to attend.

Ski Day and Après Ski Party to benefit United Way

By Stacia Kemp

Special to The SUN

Take out delicious home-made hearty soup, fresh bread and enough tasty dessert for a party of four while helping United Way's Archuleta County campaign on Wednesday, Jan. 24.

This après ski (or après work) event is part of the Party 'Round Pagosa benefit series and is hosted by the Archuleta County United Way Advisory Committee.

Takeout meals must be reserved in advance with a $25 donation to United Way-Archuleta County. Meals will be available for pick up from 3:30 to 5:30 p.m., following United Way Ski Day at Wolf Creek Ski Area. Full-day lift tickets will be sold for $34 that day, with $11 of each ticket sold going to United Way.

Proceeds from United Way Ski Day and the Après Ski Party will help Archuleta County's United Way campaign to raise money for 15 organizations that care for the people of Archuleta County.

For more information or to reserve a takeout meal, call Stacia Kemp, 264-3230, by 5 p.m. Monday, Jan. 22.

USFS announces current road closures

As of Jan. 4, the following roads on the Pagosa Ranger District are closed by snow or have been gated and locked:

Black Mountain. No. 661.

Blanco River, No. 656.

Blue Creek, No. 012.

Buckles Lake, No. 663.

Castle Creek, No. 660.

Devil Creek, No. 627.

Devil Mountain, No. 626.

East Fork,, No. 667.

Eight Mile Mesa No. 651.

First Fork, No. 622.

Jackson Mountain, No. 037.

Kenney Flats, No. 006.

Lefthand Canyon, No. 024.

Lower Piedra, No. 621.

Middle Fork, No. 636.

Monument Park East and West, No. 630.

Mosca, No. 631.

Nipple Mountain above Echo, No. 665.

Plumtaw, lower and upper, No. 634.

Price Lakes, No. 731.

Snowball, No. 646.

Trail Ridge, No. 639.

Turkey Creek, No. 647.

Turkey Springs, lower and upper, No. 629.

Valle Seco, lower and upper, No. 653.

West Fork, No. 648.

Willow Draw, No. 722.

Roads that are still open, but subject to close due to weather and road conditions are:

Burns Canyon, No. 649.

Echo Canyon, No. 029.

Mill Creek, No. 662.

Nipple Mountain, below Echo, No. 665.

Williams Creek, No. 722.

Six new CHI houses now occupied in Overlook Development

By Joe Davis

Special to The SUN

Colorado Housing, Inc. (CHI) would like to report that, on Dec. 28, six more families in Pagosa Springs moved into their new houses in the downtown Overlook Development.

Lending their support and approval during the final inspection processes were Duane Dale and Tiffany Huff of the USDA, and CHI staff of Jenny Iguchi, program director; Jamie Blechman, outreach coordinator; Joe Davis, office assistant; Casey Caves, construction supervisor; Steve Koneman, construction supervisor; and Josh Christner, construction supervisor.

These six new houses, along with the eight houses finished in November 2006, bring the total to 196 new homes in the self-help program for the four southwest Colorado counties of Archuleta, La Plata, Montezuma and San Juan. The program began in September 1995, and has been well-received in the four-county area. CHI and the new homeowners receive major financial and grant support from USDA/Rural Development, the Housing Assistance Council (a department of HUD), Colorado Division of Housing and the Federal Home Loan Bank of Topeka.

CHI, with its office in Pagosa Springs, faces major challenges in the future in being able to find affordable land on which to build due to increasing costs. This self-help affordable housing program is very important to families pursuing the dream of home ownership.

For more information or to learn how you can help this worthwhile program with your donations of land, etc., contact CHI at 264-6950. Such donations are subject to attractive tax benefits.

July-Dec. 2006, news in review

July 2006

- Widening of U.S. 160, between Piedra Road and Alpha Drive, was initiated. The asphalt paving was part of the Aspen Village project and included: widening the highway; installation of acceleration and deceleration lanes; installation of a traffic signal at the intersection of U.S. 160 and Aspen Village Drive; and 5,000 cubic yards of grading and safety improvements.

- As mandated by the federal government, Archuleta County School District 50 Joint drafted and implemented a new wellness policy, which set standards for nutrition and physical activity in the schools - though some parents and members of the district, including vice president of the school board Sandy Caves, expressed concerns the policy was not as progressive as it should be.

- Archuleta County Board of County Commissioners and staff asked citizens to organize non-governmental groups to ensure maintenance and snow removal on county secondary roads, due to the county's cessation of work on secondary roads as of June 15. County officials also said there was a possibility of addressing the roads issue by stabilizing the mill levy through a ballot question.

- Fire restrictions, which had been imposed in the Pagosa area after a mild winter and relatively dry spring, were lifted when the monsoon season hit with greater than average strength.

- The Pagosa Springs Department of Motor Vehicles office was closed on July 26, due to safety risks posed by one-person offices.

- The U.S. Forest Service upheld its decision to grant the developer of the Village at Wolf Creek two separate access roads to its 287.5-acre inholding in the Rio Grande National Forest. The Forest Service decision was questioned by nonprofit groups and legislators, including U.S. Sen. Ken Salazar, who asked USDA Inspector General Phyllis Fong to investigate allegations of improprieties in the Forest Service's evaluation and decision on the final Environmental Impact Statement, regarding the access roads.

- On July 14, District Court, Water Division 7, Judge Gregory G. Lyman rendered a decree granting two area water districts, the San Juan Water Conservancy District and Pagosa Area Water and Sanitation District, rights to divert and store water at a proposed Dry Gulch Reservoir outside of Pagosa Springs. Both proponents and opponents of the reservoir project sought clarification of the decision.

- The Northern San Juan Basin Coalbed Methane Development Project released a preview of its plan for drilling in the HD Mountain to the Archuleta County Board of County Commissioners on July 18. The developer's preferred plan would open 12,000 acres of roadless area to drilling.

- County officials said the county would plow secondary roads, despite the BOCC's decision to end maintenance of secondary roads. The county also advocated other solutions to the longterm issue, including public improvement districts and a stabilization of the mill levy, through a ballot question.

August 2006

- Citizens of Pagosa Springs raised their concerns at the Aug. 3 town council meeting about a "Big Box" ordinance that would allow retail stores up to 180,000 square feet.

- Pete Gonzalez won the Republican primary for Archuleta County Sheriff with nearly 58 percent of the vote, defeating Steve Wadley and Bob Grandchamp. With no Democratic candidates in the race, Gonzalez effectively won the office with the primary victory.

- The Archuleta County Board of County Commissioners approved a measure to put a ballot question before voters that would stabilize the mill levy, in order to fund county road maintenance and other projects, while still encouraging citizens to form public improvement districts.

- The Pagosa Area Water and Sanitation District continued its expansion of the Hatcher Water Treatment Plant, in order to increase capacity and improve water quality. The district also started the planning process for more than doubling the size of Stevens Reservoir.

- The Archuleta County BOCC culminated a five-year process by adopting a county zoning map. The nine zoning districts include: agriculture forestry, agriculture ranching, agriculture estate, rural residential, residential, mobile home park, commercial, industrial and planned unit development.

- The Town of Pagosa Springs received presidential designation as a Preserve America Community. The designation allows Pagosa Springs access to dedicated grant funds and other economic incentives.

September 2006

- The Archuleta County Board of County Commissioners approved a new ground lease for owners and users of airport hangers at Stevens Field, replacing a version less favorable to hangar owners adopted in August of 2005.

- The Archuleta County BOCC sent a message to the Bureau of Land Management and the United States Forest Service Sept. 5 with their approval of a resolution stating opposition to coal bed methane drilling within 1.5 miles of the Fruitland Outcrop in the HD Mountains area.

- The Upper San Juan Health Service District and Dr. Mary Fisher Medical Foundation symbolically broke ground for the construction of a new Critical Access Hospital on the west side of South Pagosa Boulevard, just south of U.S. 160.

- The Town of Pagosa Springs began construction of its Riverwalk Trails project, in the wetlands behind Town Hall.

- After a multi-month inquiry, USDA Inspector General Phyllis Fong stated in a letter to U.S. Sen. Ken Salazar, who initiated the inquiry, that her office had found no evidence of improper conduct or political pressure regarding United States Forest Service decisions pertaining to the controversial Village at Wolf Creek development. The decision was based largely on the testimony of Forest Service Winter Sports Coordinator Ed Ryberg, who retracted statements he had made earlier, which questioned the environmental review process, which proceeded granting village developers key access points.

- After vocal concerns from citizens regarding Big Box development, along with negotiations and multiple drafts, the town council unanimously approved an ordinance to limit Big Box stores to 100,000 square feet and require all proposals over 40,000 square feet to require an economic impact statement.

- County commissioners signed a letter of commitment, designating money to be spent on county road maintenance, if Ballot Issue 1A were to pass in November. The letter promised at least $1 million would go toward the roads during the years 2007 and 2008.

October 2006

- County staff and the board of county commissioners met with architect James Lichty of Archetype Design Group to discuss five site options for a new courthouse, jail and sheriff's facilities - choosing two final candidates near the intersection of U.S. 160 and U.S. 84 for the construction of a campus-like county facility.

- District Court Water Judge Gregory G. Lyman issued a revised judgement and decree, clarifying his ruling involving litigation over the proposed Dry Gulch Reservoir. His former decision had not clearly defined water rights to be shared between the Pagosa Area Water and Sanitation District and the San Juan Water Conservancy District. The final decree provided the districts the water rights needed to construct and fill the reservoir.

- Colorado Gov. Bill Owens announced that Archuleta County was awarded a state aviation grant totaling $192,719 for improvements at Stevens Field to fund taxiway construction and other improvements.

- More than a 100 area residents turned out at the Pagosa Springs Community Center to hear U.S. Sen. Ken Salazar speak about local issues, and to field questions from the audience regarding the Village at Wolf Creek. Questioners were decidedly opposed to the Village and Salazar questioned the sufficiency of the environmental impact statement, while suggesting a smaller development would be more palatable to area communities.

- Construction of Pagosa Springs' Critical Access Hospital began in earnest, as financing of the project fell in line, with the sale of revenue bonds and a loan closing.

- Two area environmental groups, Colorado Wild and San Luis Valley Ecosystem Council, filed a lawsuit in federal court Oct. 19 challenging the United States Forest Service environmental impact statement and record of decision regarding the proposed Village at Wolf Creek.

The lawsuit alleged the EIS and record of decision are illegal and inadequate because the Forest Service failed to address the impacts of the Village as a whole, and Forest Service Supervisor Peter Clark unlawfully modified the record of decision "making it easier for the developer to begin construction."

November 2006

- In the general election, 50 percent of the electorate turned out to pass TABOR exemptions for Archuleta County, the San Juan Water Conservancy District and the Upper San Juan Health Service District.

Local ballot questions that failed included Ballot Question 3A, extending term limits for school board members, and Question 5A, asking voters to support the library with a mill levy increase.

In local government, Republican county commissioner candidate Bob Moomaw beat Democrat John Egan 2,541 to 2,055.

- After months of discussion, spurred by the intended sale of the Pinewood Inn, a reworked moratorium prohibiting demolitions of buildings 50 years old and older passed on first reading with a unanimous vote of the Pagosa Springs Town Council.

The new ordinance allows property owners to obtain exemptions from the demolition moratorium if they can prove their building is structurally unsound or demonstrate that maintaining or keeping the building "as is" is an economic hardship.

- Stevens Field sought bids from prospective contractors to build aircraft hangars on a 12-acre parcel near the new fixed base operator building, as part of expansion plans.

- Trout Unlimited filed an appeal with the Colorado Supreme Court, forestalling plans by Pagosa Area Water and Sanitation District and San Juan Water Conservancy District to move toward development of Dry Gulch Reservoir, as per the decision of district court judge Gregory Lyman.

- Ballot issues 1B and 1C, which would have instituted a public improvement district near Wapiti Place in Pagosa Meadows, were voted down by the neighborhood of electors who petitioned for the ballot question. Road maintenance work was performed by the county, with the understanding that the PID would pass, said county officials, while neighborhood members said the maintenance was not predicated on approval of the PID. Residents of Wapiti Place cited the county's confused road maintenance policies (which proposed implementation of a mill levy stabilization, along with self-taxing PIDs) as reasons for the defeat of 1B and 1C.

- The Archuleta County Board of County Commissioners voted unanimously to amend the county's divisive road maintenance policy to state: "Effective immediately and upon the passing of Ballot Issue 1A on Nov. 7, 2006, staff are directed to maintain secondary roads at least at a minimum level of one blading, and snow plowing as needed."

- U.S. District Court Judge John Kane granted a preliminary injunction against the United States Forest Service and Village at Wolf Creek developers, after two area environmental groups filed a suit to forestall construction this winter.

December 2006

- The Colorado Department of Education released its School Accountability Reports for the 2005-2006 school year - giving Archuleta County schools average marks, except for the junior high school, which graded "high" for its overall academic performance on state assessments.

- The Upper San Juan Health Service District Board of Directors chose Ronald A. Ommen of Jackson, Wyo., to be its new Chief Executive Officer, pending negotiations. Ommen has experience as a CEO, and holds advanced degrees in business, hospital and health care administration, and has worked in the medical field since 1972.

- After approval of Ballot Issue 5B, which freed the district from TABOR constraints, the San Juan Water Conservancy District began to apply for grants and permits to initiate development of the proposed Dry Gulch Reservoir.

- Pagosa Springs Town Council passed Ordinance 683, which regulates the demolition of buildings 50 years old or older, while establishing new exemptions for those seeking demolition, based on economic hardship or the structural integrity of the building.

- The Archuleta County Board of County Commissioners approved a plan to allow all county residents to have access to a discount prescription drug buying program, called the Caremark Prescription Drug Card Program.

- The BOCC passed a $28.9 million county budget for 2007, with total government operations at $15.5 million. A large portion of the funds were dedicated to road maintenance and improvement.

- Archuleta County School District 50 Joint made the de facto decision to postpone a cooperative effort with community members to rework the meals program at the elementary school, due to a pending audit of the district meals program, while concerned parents and educators will continue to promote better health and nutrition through information campaigns in upcoming months.

Be special, attend the 'Hearts for Horses' benefit

By DiAnn Hitchcox

Special to The SUN

"There is something about riding down the street on a prancing horse that makes you feel like something, even when you ain't a thing." - Will Rogers

The magnificent horse makes us all feel like "something special."

Lasso (Large Animal Support Southwest Organization) understands the "special" feeling of the horse. The all-volunteer organization works hard rehabilitating, nurturing and training horses placed with the organization. The ultimate goal is finding permanent, loving homes for horses.

On Feb. 10, everyone is invited to this year's "Hearts for Horses" benefit.

The largest fund-raising event of the season promises to be most memorable. Local artists of the Four Corners area have graciously donated their work of spectacular fine art. Signed prints, sculptures and original works of art will highlight the event. Items generously donated will be auctioned both live and silently.

As in years past, there will be many miscellaneous donation items which will be used for the Chinese auction. Deena and Andy, of Chama, N.M., will keep things lively with their great music.

Those of you who attended last year will not forget Amy's (Wildflower Catering) fabulous dinner. She's agreed to repeat her talents and dazzle everyone again.

Great music, endless shopping, an evening of divine entertainment. This event is not just for "horse" people. This event will please everyone.

All proceeds benefit the care of the large animals. Funds are also used to create educational material and provide educational opportunities for our community.

LASSO is a recognized non-profit 501C-3 organization. Your gift is entirely tax deductible. Most important, your gift is used to continue the care of needy large animals. Mark your date night calendar and bring your Valentine. This will be the best spring date you'll have - Feb. 10, 6:30 p.m., Pagosa Lakes Clubhouse, 230 Port Ave.

For tickets and information, call 264-0095, 264-2264, or 264-9355.

Apply now for conservation district grants

The San Juan Conservation District announces a new program, "Conservation Helping Hand."

Are you interested in implementing a conservation practice on your property, but need help with the cost? The district will be awarding grants to pay for 50 percent of your project, up to $3,500.

Conservation practices to promote the use of planned grazing systems, more efficient irrigation systems, improved riparian area conditions, and rangeland/woodland productivity and plant diversity that will benefit both livestock and wildlife will be considered.

Stop by the district office for an application. Staff will accept applications until March 30.

Applications will be reviewed by the elected board members and prioritized based on the targeted resource concern, environmental benefits and cost of implementation. Winners will be notified by April 9. All projects must be completed by Sept. 1, 2007.

Technical assistance will be provided by the NRCS and all approved projects must meet NRCS Standards and Specifications.

Stop by the office at 505A CR 600 (Piedra Road) to pick up an application or call 731-3615 for more information.

By James Robinson

Staff Writer

No column this week.

While strange, our Merriam's Turkeys are fascinating

By Chuck McGuire

SUN Columnist

At first glance, the appearance of a wild turkey is both peculiar and deceptive. Even as America's largest game fowl, and one that Benjamin Franklin preferred over the bald eagle as our national bird, it doesn't seem entirely fit for such esteem.

After all, with a blue featherless crown covered in caruncles, a red throat, spindly reddish-orange legs and a plump, heavily-feathered body that seems disproportionately large for its head and limbs, its features are not exactly stunning.

Throw in a nine-inch "beard" protruding from its breast, a floppy dewlap dangling from the bill, bright red wattles on the throat and neck, and spurs on the back of its legs, and a male turkey is arguably unattractive. And, his marked preference of foot travel over air, at once conveys the image of an ill-favored, ungainly and largely flightless bird.

But, as already mentioned, initial impressions are often misleading.

Aside from the obvious, wild turkeys bear between 5,000 and 6,000 feathers, reflecting various shades of black, red, blue, purple and bronze. Most males, commonly called "gobblers" or "toms," also show prominent white barring on their primary wing feathers, and white-tipped tail feathers become quite conspicuous when "fanned" during flight or courtship displays.

To attract a mate, toms engage in elaborate displays of strutting, color change, gobbling and drumming. The ritual typically takes place in March or April, when the males puff out feathers and fan their tails, all the while, strutting around and dragging their wings in the presence of prospective partners.

Interestingly, toms can change hues, depending on mood. Though they are generally more colorful than their female counterparts, during courtship, a tom's head and neck most often show brilliant casts of red, blue and white. If the head and neck are solid white, he is most excited.

To establish territory, or again, to impress the ladies, toms gobble and scrape the ground, thereby announcing their whereabouts. They also emit a low-pitched drumming sound that competing birds seldom miss, but among their various vocalizations, including clucks, putts, purrs, yelps, cutts, cackles and kee-kees, gobbling makes the loudest statement and, in fact, can be heard a mile away.

Contrary to popular belief, wild turkeys are excellent and agile fliers capable of achieving mid-air speeds of 50 miles per hour. Even with an average wingspan of five to six feet, they seldom fly further than a quarter-of-a-mile or so, but can flap and glide up to a mile. Relying on keen eyesight and acute hearing, they prefer walking while feeding, but can run between 15 and 18 miles an hour, when necessary.

When Europeans first encountered turkeys in the Americas, they mistakenly identified them with the African Helmeted Guineafowl (Numida meleagris), which were referred to as turkey-cocks, because they were imported to Central Europe through Turkey (the country). In reality, only two species of turkeys exist in the wild and are classified in the genus Meleagris. They are the North American Wild Turkey (Meleagris gallopavo) and the Ocellated Turkey (Meleagris ocellata) of Central and South America.

In North America, there are five subspecies of wild turkeys, including the Eastern, Osceola (or Florida), Rio Grande, Merriam's, and Gould's.

As one might expect, Eastern turkeys are found in the eastern half of the United States and Canada. Osceolas occupy the Florida peninsula, and Rio Grandes inhabit much of Texas, Oklahoma, Kansas and parts of eastern Colorado. Merriam's range throughout the Rocky Mountains and neighboring prairies of Montana, Wyoming and South Dakota. Gould's, on the other hand, are native to central and northern Mexico, and the southernmost regions of Arizona and New Mexico.

Recent estimates suggest 340,000 Merriam's turkeys roam the entire mountain west, and now occupy areas between 3,500 and 10,000 feet in elevation. Their original range once encompassed the ponderosa forests of Colorado, New Mexico and northern Arizona, but they have now been introduced to the pine forests of at least nine other states, from California to Nebraska and South Dakota.

Named in 1900 in honor of C. Hart Merriam, the first chief of the U.S. Biological Survey, Merriam's are prevalent in an estimated 19,000 square miles of Colorado forest lands, including the San Juan Mountains. Dwelling primarily in mixed ponderosa pine and Gambel oak forest, they also inhabit lower pinon/juniper forests and some aspen groves.

Merriam's don't migrate per se, but heavy snow will push them to lower elevations, sometimes as far as 40 miles away, until conditions moderate. As omnivorous creatures, they forage on the ground, or climb shrubs and small trees in search of acorns, pinon nuts, various seeds, berries, roots and insects. On occasion, they will also consume small snakes, frogs and salamanders. Feeding takes place early and late in the day, and nights are spent roosting in the upper reaches of ponderosa pines, well out of the reach of predators.

Like all turkeys, Merriam's are gregarious. Over the colder months, hens and poults (young) flock together as high in elevation as winter weather allows. Toms will feed in similar habitat, but are not typically seen with the hens, except during the March and April breeding season. That's when strutting, drumming and gobbling begin in earnest.

Tom turkeys are polygamous. During courtship, they form harems with about five hens, and defend territories from competing gobblers. Remarkably, they will often court in pairs, with both birds inflating waddles, fanning tails, dragging wings and strutting.

On average, dominant males that court as part of a pair typically father significantly more eggs than those courting alone. According to genetic analysis, close relatives sharing a high degree of identical genetic material carry out the partnership, which, scientists believe, allows less dominant males to pass along their genetic heritage.

As mating concludes, hens move to higher elevations and dense habitat to dig shallow dirt depressions amid thick vegetation. There, they will lay a clutch of 10 to 12 eggs, usually one a day, and incubate them for at least 28 days. Upon hatching, the chicks are quickly capable of independent activity and will leave the nest in just 12 to 24 hours.

It goes without saying, roast turkey is a favorite Thanksgiving dish in the United States and Canada. Of course, meals are most often prepared with farm-raised turkeys, but few realize the Aztec Indians domesticated the southern Mexican subspecies, Meleagris gallopavo mexicana, eventually giving rise to the popular holiday. In fact, the first pilgrims to colonize North America brought farm-raised birds with them, not knowing they inhabited the New World.

Though somewhat bizarre in appearance and behavior, wild turkeys are at once a joy to behold. The forests of Archuleta County provide prime turkey habitat, where enough time spent in the woods will invariably lead to encounters. While appearing awkward, they are actually quite cunning, and their antics seldom fail to amuse even the casual observer.

I know Š I've been watching them from my living room windows lately.

Transparent

Dear Editor:

As W approaches the moment when he's about to announce his latest new plan for the war in Iraq, I wondered whether it's time to quit attacking and support the "surge" for what's "good" in the long term for America. After days of political BS from all sides and leaks galore, I began to lean toward supporting this plan.

Then I was reminded that Gen. Shinseki was fired for taking this position years ago while Bremer was given the Presidential Medal for gutting their govt and army. Next, I learned that Iraq's massive oil reserves, the third-largest in the world, are about to be thrown open for large-scale exploitation by Western oil companies. Which is expected to be combined in law with completion of the long-delayed national oil law giving their central government the power to distribute current and future oil revenues to the provinces or regions, based on their population.

Sunday's "surprise" was the new American operational commander in Iraq said that under W's new strategy it may take another "two or three years" to gain the upper hand in the war. Security is necessary for well being; but whose security? Iraqi's or oil companies? And yes, in the shallowest of perspectives, $50 dollar barrel oil is economically better than $100 for all the world except for our service men, their families, environment and maybe those left in Iraq.

W embraced but surely never read Adam Smith, as he could never set people free to pursue their own self-interest without class, political, economic or religious impositions. More likely, he will follow the "greater-good" in directing Americans to die for his legacy as he rejects our Iraq Study Group's recommendations. Recall his promise to pay for this war with their oil!

How does one blindly support W or attempt to rationalize the greater good, when The Decider is so transparent? Yes, congressional challenges are possible; but don't expect many Democrats to throw themselves on swords.

Conclusions: you can't ever be politically blind and that most Republican holdovers in the White House and prior Congress, many restating their choice of this war based on their naive ideology, now just don't have the personal incentive, will, talent or wisdom to put together a military and diplomatic solution out of Iraq.

Dave Blake

Lasting value

Dear Editor:

Great story on Bob and Betty Lindner's latest contribution of lasting value to southwest Colorado! What a blessing Bob and Betty have been around here. Their graciousness and generosity has greatly enriched us all. Our Ruby Sisson Library probably never would have come to be without their early generous gift. They have made significant contributions to our soon-to-be new hospital as well youth ministries here locally. They have been incredible stewards of their lands and hired quality conscientious local managers to care for this legacy in their absence. I count it a real privilege to have known them.

Jerry Driesens

Fee increase

Dear Editor:

Reference Pagosa SUN article: slight water/wastewater increase. This increase reflects reference due to the Chris Mountain Village development.

I ask, what happens if and when Chris Mountain Village II, III, or whatever development title occurs? What slight increase will take place?

Solution, versus folks paying again for growth?

Impact fees and connection fees can carry the slight increase.

Folks, I hope you ask these same questions. Write to PAWSD board, Pagosa Water, PO Drawer 4610, Pagosa Springs, CO 81157.

Thank you,

Pam Morrow

Dog control

Dear Editor:

I live in Archuleta County on Butte Road. A neighbor owns a dog with wolf breeding. For many months, the wolf hybrid dog has from time to time, broken free and run through the neighborhood. Once loose, it is difficult for the owners to catch it, so it can be loose for hours at a time.

Some months ago, a deputy from the sheriff's department, along with the animal control officer, attempted for a lengthy time to catch the dog, but to no avail.

During the month of December, the dog was loose on three different occasions that my husband and I know of. It delights in stalking cats. It is known to have killed one cat, injured another, and badly terrorized several others.

On Dec. 19, during a snow storm, the dog was running free and chased a cat that lives outside and is deaf. We were barely able to get the cat inside our home before the dog reached it. I called the sheriff's department, only to learn that the animal control officer was ill.

Two days later, the dog began howling during the nights. Again that was reported.

On Dec. 23, at 5:15 in the evening, we were unloading our car when our own cat stepped out onto our porch just as the wolf dog appeared from nowhere and attempted to grab her. I called again for assistance and was again told that there was no one who could help me, that I could go to the sheriff's office and file a report on Dec. 26. The dog continued to block the door and stalk the windows, even as we attempted to chase it away.

On Dec. 26, when going to the sheriff's department, I was told that there was no one available to take a report.

On the evening of Dec. 26, the dog came again, chasing after the deaf cat. Fortunately, a deputy from the sheriff's department came out, but was unable to catch the dog. It continued to stalk our home for most of that night.

On Dec. 27, I was finally able to give a report to the animal control officer. I thank those of the sheriff's department who did assist me. Our Christmas holiday had become a nightmare, while we attempted to protect the cats from all of the terror of the dog.

I question why any animal that cannot be controlled is allowed to be kept within either the city or county. Is it right for an animal whose innate breeding requires that it run many miles a day be confined to a small area?

When any dog is known to kill or injure, it stands to reason that it can injure or kill not only cats, but dogs and even small children, as well. Yet there are evidently no laws that provide the protection that is needed for animals or humans.

Marilyn Ralph

Fiddling

Dear Editor:

I saw Al Gore's report on global warming titled, "An Inconvenient Truth," available on DVD at the local movie rental stores.

Then I listened to the news real hard.

We're literally, as a nation, fiddling while Rome burns.

Everybody, watch the DVD. Know it. Tell others.

My dream: that all you young folks dressed up like hippies would look back to the sixties to see what organized protest can do and then do it. It's your turn and it's your future life on Earth.

Bonnie Runyan

Troglodyte

Dear Editor:

Hallelujah! It was exhilarating to read in last week's SUN letters that the storied "Arboles Troglodyte," Bob Dungan, has not bought the farm. Of course, any deeply rooted hominid is aware that having to devour food and drink in frosty, damp surroundings keeps the liver from becoming inflamed and engenders a longer life - some say.

However, our maker must have rolled aside the great stone over Dungan's cavern entrance. Now he can plan to extricate those bikini-clad San Francisco Palooza Pelosi Democrat's motor homes from the deep carp muck down on Navajo Lake come springtime.

The "Troglodyte" takes the initiative to assist those greenhorn ladies whenever in need; a helpful and concerned Archuleta County citizen, a real Chamber of Commerce man. Thanks, Bob: You've been blessed.

Jim Sawicki

Jan. 11

Community College Task Force

The Archuleta County Community Task Force for the establishment of a community college in Pagosa Springs is sponsoring a free lecture entitled, "The Teachings and Healing Beliefs of Our Ancestors," scheduled for 7 p.m. in the Extension Building at the Archuleta County Fairgrounds. Montana Blackfoot, Long Standing Bear Chief, will present the lecture.

The meeting marks one of the task force's first formal meetings and will provide an opportunity for the public to meet task force members, to offer input, ask questions and to experience an example of the kind of multi-cultural curricula the community college could ultimately offer. Contact Long Standing Bear Chief at (970) 903-0213 for more information.

Jan. 13

Piecemakers

Pagosa Piecemakers general meeting, 10 a.m. at the Community United Methodist Church, located at 434 Lewis St. January's presentation is on "Value and Color for Quilters," by Ginnie Bartlett and Denny Rose. The workshop following the general meeting on value and color in quilts is $25 per person. Contact Margaret Darling, 731-4580.

Jan. 20

Genealogy

Searching for your English roots? Learn techniques for researching one of England's most complete genealogical records for births, marriages and deaths: Civil Registration. The Archuleta County Genealogical Society is sponsoring a video showing of "The Genealogist's Research Guide for England and Wales - Civil Registration," at 11 a.m. Saturday, Jan. 20, in the Fellowship Hall of the United Methodist Church, 434 Lewis St. Refreshments will be served and the showing will be followed by a discussion and question-and-answer session. Call 731-5793 for more information.

Jan. 30

Film Society

The Film Society will meet at 7 p.m. to view and discuss the film "Never on Sunday." The location is Unit 15 of the Greenbriar Plaza - in the Unitarian Fellowship space. A suggested $3 donation benefits The Friends of the Library.

North Carolina band in Sunday Pagosa house concert

A North Carolina bluegrass band, Town Mountain, travels to Pagosa Springs for a house concert at the Davis Ranch, 6:30 p.m. Sunday, Jan. 14.

These five young musicians have already made a name for themselves, winning the prestigious Rockygrass band competition in Lyons, Colo., in the summer of 2005.

Their self-titled CD, "Town Mountain," is all-original tunes, bluegrass with roots country and alternative country influences such as George Jones and Son Volt.

The first house concert filled up quickly, so call 731-1202 to reserve your seat and for directions. Bring a dish to share.

ECA presents Woodwork Percussion Ensemble

By Paul Roberts

Special to The PREVIEW

Elation Center for the Arts proudly presents the Woodwork Percussion Ensemble, 7 p.m. Saturday, Jan. 27, at the Pagosa Lakes Clubhouse.

Woodwork is the brainchild of Dr. John Pennington, renowned percussionist and music professor at Fort Lewis College. Performing with Pennington are Philip Peters, Michael Pratt, Sean Statser, Chance Harrison and Grayson Andrews - students at the college who are preparing for careers as concert performers.

Performances by Woodwork are an auditory and visual treat. The ensemble's instrumentation includes marimbas, xylophones, glockenspiel, vibraphone, croatales and cajon.

As a special addition to this concert, Pennington will perform solo hand drum compositions on his extraordinary collection of ethnic percussion from various cultures: Egyptian riqq, Moroccan bendir, Middle Eastern tar, Irish bodhran and African mbira.

In Woodwork, percussion has a heyday, exploring its unique possibilities for creating melody, harmony and rhythm. The Jan 27 concert in Pagosa will feature lush arrangements of classical music, American ragtime and traditional music from around the world. Here are some of the highlights: selected works of J.S. Bach; "Galloping Comedians," by Dmitri Kabalevsky; "Prelude No. 2," by George Gershwin; traditional folkloric tunes from Mexico, Guatemala, Russia and Zimbabwe; American ragtime from the 1920s and '30s.

Pennington is a man with a musical mission and Woodwork reflects his belief that serious music students should have plenty of experience being part of high-level professional performing and recording ensembles. "It's essential to get students out of the practice room and out of the rehearsal hall, to become the musicians that they're destined to be," he said. "There's practicing and there's performing. This ensemble performs extensively to all types of audiences and we're very excited to play for your audience in Pagosa."

A bolt of inspiration struck Pennington when he began playing the drums at age 10. "I got into music through the drum set. Rock and roll and jazz was what fired me up and how I became connected with music. Later, through school music programs, I became interested in orchestral instruments and this expanded my thoughts about percussion." Pennington's creative intensity continues unabated as he contributes to the world of music as performer, recording artist, educator, conductor, composer and author.

Pennington's life work demonstrates that percussion is not just the icing on the cake for music, but can be the main course.

"I think of myself as a global musician, as someone who has embraced a myriad of styles. At my core, I still feel I'm rooted in the classical and orchestral tradition but I certainly have a very strong jazz element and a very strong global music element as well."

Pennington began teaching at Fort Lewis in 1992 after receiving his doctorate. Besides teaching at the college, he performs all over the world. He's got a tall musical order to fill, but he does it incredibly well (he's a tall guy, too, standing at 6' 7").

The Woodwork Percussion Ensemble is the fulfillment of Pennington's dream to perform and record with his most advanced students. "Percussion tends to be in the back of the orchestra or band," he said. "The Woodwork Ensemble shows the soloistic and expressive possibilities of these instruments."

Advance discount tickets, for $12, are available through elationarts.org and at WolfTracks Coffee House. Tickets at the door are $15 for adults. Children with parents attend for free.

Desserts and coffee will be provided at intermission. Please bring a dessert to share if you wish.

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.

For more information, log on to elationarts.org or call 731-3117.

Pagosa Health and Wellness Network organizes

By Constance d'Angelis

Special to The PREVIEW

Pagosa Health and Wellness Network has organized as a Colorado Non-profit Corporation.

At an organizational meeting held Dec. 29-30, the board of directors elected the following officers: Sonya Flores Lugo, president; Constance d'Angelis, secretary; Athena Raphael, treasurer; Karen Kauffman, vice president; Mary Jane Knight, vice president; Arthur Sattva, assistant secretary; Terri E. Miller, assistant treasurer.

The Network's first project is publication of the Pagosa Health & Wellness Directory. Five thousand copies of the premier directory will be distributed throughout the greater Pagosa area.

Due to exceptional interest, the time period for submission has been extended until Jan 17. Any individual, community organization, or business interested in sponsorship or listing in the Pagosa Health & Wellness Directory, Premier Edition, should contact Arthur Sattva at 264-3354 for application and information.

Fellowship of Christian Cowboys chapter being organized

By Bart Burnett

Special to The PREVIEW

Come join the Pagosa Cowboy Church Thursday evening, Jan. 18 at 6:30 p.m. in the new building at the rodeo grounds on U.S. 84, as we organize an FCC chapter for Archuleta County.

Fellowship of Christian Cowboys is a non-profit organization dedicated to making a positive influence on young people through combining the teaching of rodeo skills and the word of God. We welcome youth from all walks of life, not just country kids. Through FCC, we're planning to have our first annual Youth Rodeo Camp here in Pagosa next summer, but we need interested adults to help lay the foundation of this chapter in order to begin.

Anyone who feels they would be interested in such a worthy cause should contact Bart Burnett at 731-4384 or 759-5733, or just come to the meeting for more information.

Paul Pennington to judge annual photo show

It is January and the photo contest committee is once again looking forward to all the exciting photo entries this year.

The annual photography show is an opportunity for everyone to display the images they caught on film during the past year.

Are your entries matted or framed and ready to hang? Don't get caught unprepared.

Entry guidelines are available at Moonlight Books. The deadline for entries to be delivered to Moonlight Books is 5 p.m. Wednesday, Jan. 31.

Remember to check the guidelines thoroughly to avoid any problems when entering your photos. Attach entry forms to the back of each photo and remember to choose the entry category carefully.

Will that great shot of the deer in your meadow take a ribbon this year? Did you record one of our glorious sunrises? What about that photo of last winter's snow - do you think everyone would like to be reminded what winter looks like?

The photo contest exhibit will be on display at Moonlight Books Feb. 3-24. As always, there will be plenty of time to study the entries and choose a favorite for the People's Choice Award.

Pennington to judge

This year's judge is Paul Marshall Pennington, of Durango.

Pennington was educated at Fort Lewis College, receiving a bachelor of fine arts degree in 1992, with an emphasis in fine art photography and a minor in art education. He also attended Colorado Mountain College, Glenwood Springs, studying photography, 1982-86.

Grants and awards

Durango Arts Center, Visions from the Edge, 2004.

Durango Arts Center, Photographers shoot the West, 2002.

Museum of Contemporary Art, Chicago, apprenticeship program in photography, 1997.

San Juan National Forest, Mancos, Artists in Residence Program, Aspen Guard Station, 1995.

Anderson Ranch, Pinhole Photography Workshop Scholarship.

Colorado Council on the Arts, Governor's Award finalist, 1990.

Exhibition highlights

Photo-eye Gallery Bistro Web site, Santa Fe, N.M., 2003.

Fort Lewis College Fine Arts Gallery, 2004.

Durango Arts Center, Durango, Co. "Visions from The Edge", 2004.

Ellis Crane Gallery, Durango, 2002.

Nason & Williams, Taos, N.M., 2001.

Plan B Juried Group Show, Santa Fe, 2000.

Soho Gallery of Photography, New York, 1996.

Columbia College Museum of Contemporary Photography, Chicago, "Art of Paper." 1996.

Craig Museum of Art, Craig, 1995.

Nora Ecceles Harrison Museum of Art, Logan, Utah, 1995.

Loveland Museum of Art, 1994.

Denver Historical Museum, Denver, 1994.

International Miniatures Exhibition, Toronto, 1991.

Major publications

The Sun Magazine, Mountain Gazette, Bike Magazine, High Country News, Natural History Magazine, Denver Post, Durango Herald, Durango Magazine, Glenwood Springs Post, Grand Junction Journal, San Juan Almanac.

Work experience

Animas Hiking & Photography Tours, 2004-present.

Fort Lewis College, Durango, photography professor, 1998-present.

Pueblo Community College, photography instructor, 1997-98.

Community of Learners, Durango, drawing, painting, sculpture teacher, natural history, 1997-1998.

Penumbra Photography, Durango, photography lab, commercial and fine art shooting, 1993-present.

San Juan College, Farmington, N.M., photography instructor, 1994-1997.

Local Yoga Day USA fund-raiser Jan. 27

Yoga makes people feel better, stronger and healthier. Just ask the over 17 million Americans who practice regularly.

Yoga Day USA, on Saturday, Jan. 27, offers those who haven't tried it the opportunity to experience firsthand how yoga can enrich their lives. Free or low cost workshops will be offered nationwide as part of the eighth annual celebration.

Yoga Pagosa is joining yoga teachers, studios and schools across the country in offering free classes for those new to yoga and those who practice regularly but would like to try a different style. Yoga Pagosa is located in the uptown City Market center (behind Movie Gallery).

The event is also a fund-raiser for the Pagosa Springs High School athletics department, so aspiring yogis can experience Karma yoga, the act of selfless giving.

Yoga Pagosa invites everyone to attend any one or all yoga classes held on Jan. 27 and in exchange for taking a class, to donate to fitness and team building for Pagosa's youth. The workshop is open to all ages and fitness levels.

"People begin to practice yoga for many reasons," said Yoga Alliance President and CEO Stephen Russell. "It might be stress or pain relief, improved fitness or weight management. Regardless of why they began, most say yoga has provided them with a heightened sense of well-being that has made it essential in their lives."

Medical research is now confirming what those who practice yoga have been reporting for decades. Studies have demonstrated that practicing yoga postures (asanas), meditation or a combination of both reduced pain for those with cancer, multiple sclerosis, auto immune diseases and chronic conditions such as hypertension, arthritis, asthma and carpal tunnel syndrome, among others.

"We see more evidence every day that yoga is a valuable tool for people of all ages to improve their quality of life," Russell said. "It is included in many health and wellness programs and the continuing growth of mind body awareness in our culture is positioning yoga as an important complement to today's healthcare."

Athletes to weekend warriors to professionals, including golfers, cyclists and football and basketball players have discovered yoga, finding that it complements their regular workout regimen and helps them to better focus during competition.

Yoga challenges the body and calms the mind while providing a sense of relaxation and rejuvenation. There is a style of yoga to suit everyone regardless of age, body type or fitness level. Yoga Day USA offers a great introduction to the benefits of Yoga for Life.

Yoga Day USA is sponsored by Yoga Alliance. A non-profit professional organization, Yoga Alliance as the leader is setting educational standards for yoga teachers and schools. Sponsors for Yoga Day USA also include Yoga Journal, Hugger Mugger, Gaiam, Inc., Wellness Business Systems, Yoga Plus Joyful Living and Body and Soul.

For more information about the Yoga Day USA workshop at Yoga Pagosa, call 731-0089, or visit the Web site at Yogapagosa.com.

For a complete list of classes nationwide or to learn more, visit www.yogadayusa.org.

January at Congregation Har Shalom

Following is the schedule of Congregation Har Shalom activities for January, in Durango.

- Friday, Jan. 12, 6 p.m. - Shabbat potluck at Pat and Mary Dworkin's home, 16 Long Hollow Lane. Call 259-9434 for more information.

- Tuesday, Jan. 16, 6:30 p.m. - Reading Circle Folk tales and Legends Night at Har Shalom.

- Thursday, Jan. 18, 7 p.m. - The Conscious Community Group at Har Shalom. For more information, contact Harold Shure at 3385-6793.

- Friday, Jan. 19, 7 p.m. - Torah study led by Harold Shure at Har Shalom. Call Harold at 385-6793 for details.

- Sunday, Jan. 21, 10 a.m. - Shalom Yeladim Religious School at Har Shalom. Contact Marla at 247-2992.

- Sunday, Jan. 21, 10:30 a.m. - Adult Hebrew class at har Shalom. Contact Harris Richard at (505) 326-2936 or hrichard@obii.netfor more information.

- Thursday, Jan. 25, 7 p.m. - Jewish Meditation and Conscious Community Group (CCG) at Har Shalom. For information about the meditation group, contact Judith Vanderryn at 247-3292 and for the CCG, contact Harold at 385-6793.

- Friday, Jan. 26, 6 p.m. - Shabbat on Weekend with SABABA begins with a potluck and very special musical Shabbat service with Robbi Sherwin and Scott Leder at Har Shalom.

- Saturday, Jan. 27, 7 p.m. - SABABA Concert. You don't want to miss, with opening songs by St. Mark's Choir.

- Sunday, Jan. 28, 10 a.m. - Energetic Songfest for Kids. Enjoy great music and singing with Steve Brodsky, Robbi Sherwin and Scott Leder. Bagel lunch and schmooze to follow.

'Meditation: Patience and Peace' at UU service

The Pagosah Unitarian Universalist Fellowship will hold a meditation service Sunday, Jan. 14, entitled "Meditation: Patience and Peace." It will be led by noted author and educator John Hornecker.

He states, "The first of the year often brings with it a sense of hope, an idea or a wish that things might change, that we may be transformed somehow with the newness of it all. Yet transformation and change, in most cases, take time. One quality that we can cultivate in the meantime is patience, even in the midst of world turmoil or personal transition. Consider: how might an attitude of patience be a display of peace in our lives? Can a willingness to be patient support the growth of compassion and peace in our world?"

The service begins at 10:30 a.m. in the Pagosah Unitarian Universalist Fellowship Hall, Unit B-15, Greenbriar Plaza. Turn east on Greenbrier Drive off of North Pagosa Boulevard by the fire station, then left into the parking lot and look for the big sign.

All are invited for this contemplation with readings, chanting, silent meditation and group discussion.

Christian Women's Retreat in February

The 10th annual Christian Women's Retreat will be held Feb. 2-4 at Sonlight Christian Camp, north of Pagosa Springs.

This year's featured speaker is Christine Jahani, with Humility Ministries.

Cost is $105, which includes a date with God, two nights' lodging, unlimited hot tubbing, and five delicious meals.

For additional information, contact Teresa Mael at 264-4786, or Christina Velarde at 731-4136.

The four worst films of 2006

By Charles Streetman

PREVIEW Columnist

In my last column, I took a look back at some of my favorite movies of 2006.

This week, I'm listing the four absolute worst films I have seen all year.

A lot of other critics have already exposed and ridiculed the more popular and obvious stinkers from last year, but there are always some that slip through and somehow find their way into my DVD player.

This week, I'm doing fellow movie buffs a favor and warning them about these four cinematic bombs, so they don't waste their time and money like I did.

No. 4. "The Black Dahlia."

Director Brian De Palma ("Chinatown") tackles the infamous, unsolved murder of Elizabeth Short, and in doing so successfully digresses from the historical facts as much as possible and provides the viewer with a fictitious solution to the murder.

Although many facts in the case are well documented, the film was rife with innacuracies, lacked depth and offered little insight into the crime or its victim. Ironically, although touted as a murder mystery, the movie hardly touched on the murder itself. Instead, it focused largely on the fictional lives of the people involved in the investigation. It doesn't sound like it's that bad, but throw in De Palma's touch of cinematic "weirdness" and you have a disturbed, disjointed and very annoying clunky thriller.

No. 3. "An American Haunting."

Yet another thriller based on true accounts, and another that fails to provide any legitimate depth to the actual incident.

"An American Haunting" is another dopey horror film attempting to cash in on the "based on a true story" tagline which apparently is supposed to make it scarier than it really is. Maybe it would have been scarier if director Courtney Solomon ("Dungeons and Dragons") had a better script - one that actually relied on a decent plot, rather than campy, over-the-top effects and dull, predictable PG-13-rated jumper scenes for a scare factor involving an expected twist ending that is not only illogical, but asinine.

It doesn't help either that the film's leading actress, Rachel Hurd-Wood ("Peter Pan"), gives one of the most laughably bad performances of the year. Her role simply required her to look bug-eyed, straight at the camera and scream while the "ghost" smacked, dragged and threw her around the house. I will be surprised if she doesn't receive a Razzy nomination this year.

No. 2. "Final Fantasy VII: Advent Children."

Those who know me well know I am a die-hard fan of the Final Fantasy video game franchise, before I am a fan of anything else. "Advent Children" is a sequel feature film to the best-selling seventh installment of the series. It never made it into American theaters, and was released straight to DVD.

Despite a little over two years in production, and presentation of some of the most astoundingly realistic computer animation ever seen, "Advent Children" ultimately fails when it discards the two elements that made Final Fantasy what is today: deep and involving characters, and a complex and compelling story. "Advent Children" had neither of these elements. In fact, it lacked a plot altogether. The movie progressed disjointedly for over 90 minutes with a blur of stunning animation mixed with preposterous, over-the-top action sequences and incoherent events that didn't make a lick of sense even if you had actually played the video game.

"Advent Children" also sported one of the worst English dubbing jobs I've heard since I endured the anime series "Excel Saga." None of the actors' voiceovers matched with their characters, the dialogue was poorly translated, and the lip syncing was almost as bad as the old Godzilla movies.

"Advent Children" was one of the biggest disappointments of the year.

No.1. "Hostel"

I cannot express my utter disgust for this film strongly enough, nor abundantly enough. "Hostel" is the poster child for everything that's wrong with American horror films today.

Eli Roth's thriller had potential, but wasted it on excessive gore and unnecessary soft-core porn, rather than focusing on a coherent and provocative plot that could have produced genuine psychological terror. Roth needs to learn that gore is not scary when it is shown constantly and in graphic detail for extensive periods of time. Instead, it is overkill and distracts from any real fear the scene can generate, since it causes the viewer to become desensitized and bored.

The concept of the film itself is frightening; Wealthy individuals travel to an obscure European town where they pay top dollar to live out their sickest and most violent fantasies by torturing, mutilating and eventually killing kidnapped tourists. There was promise for this film, and maybe that's why I am so enraged and offended by the schlock it ultimately became.

"Hostel" is indeed the worst film I have seen all year, and I have no hope, nor interest in seeing if Roth improves upon his film in its upcoming sequel, due out in theaters early this year. In fact when I heard there would be a sequel the only question that occurred in my mind was a resounding, "Why?"

No column this week.

How do you build a community?

By Mercy Korsgren

PREVIEW Columnist

The Pagosa Springs Community Center has a poster titled "How To Build Community" which is fitting for the facility, and I would like to share what it says.

Take a moment for the message to sink in and ask yourself if you live in a "community".

"Turn off your TV, leave your house, know your neighbors, look up when you are walking, greet people, sit on your stoop, plant flowers, use your library, play together, buy from local merchants, share what you have, help a lost dog, take children to the park, garden together, support neighborhood schools, fix it even if you didn't break it, have potlucks, honor elders, pick up litter, read stories aloud, dance in the street, talk to the mail carrier, listen to the birds, put up a swing, help carry something heavy, barter for your goods, start a tradition, ask a question, hire young people for odd jobs, organize a block party, bake extra and share, ask for help when you need it, open your shades, sing together, share your skills, take back the night, turn up the music, turn down the music, listen before you react to anger, mediate a conflict, seek to understand, learn from new and uncomfortable angles, know that no one is silent, though many are not heard, work to change this."

What do you think?

It is obvious that we have a beautiful, healthy, generous, loving and caring community. We should all be proud and thankful we live in this community of Pagosa Springs.

Volunteers' dinner

On Saturday, Jan. 27, from 6-9 p.m., the community center is hosting a Volunteers' Appreciation Dinner and Dance for all the volunteers who have helped the past year.

This is our way of saying, "Thank you for all the help and support. We would not have survived the year without your volunteer time and talents".

Check your mailbox for the invitations, they should be to you by the end of this week. Mark your calendar and plan to attend.

Pre-Valentine's Day Dance

Yes, this is our next fund-raising event, to be held from 7-11 p.m. Saturday, Feb. 10.

By popular demand, we are happy to have Tim Sullivan and the Narrow Gauge Band provide music. As usual, we will have yummy, sumptuous hors d'oeuvres (more than just snacks) and a cash bar will be available. Watch for details next week.

Baton twirling class

Karla Dominguez is back with this fun, challenging activity.

Elementary school-age children are invited to join this class at the center, 3:30-4:30 p.m every Monday after school. The first lesson is free and continuing lessons are $3 per session. What a bargain!

Also, a discounted monthly rate is available. Bring your own balanced baton or purchase new ones for $18. Karla will have them available at the class. Join and get ready to perform during the St. Patrick's Day parade.

Line dancing

This toilsome activity is reaping it rewards. At least 40 fun people joined together on the bigger floor during the recent dance at the center and they line danced a couple of times. What a fun time for everyone, including those watching! Thanks to our volunteer instructors.

Couples line dancing resumes Monday, Jan. 15. The center will be closed, but the group will still meet this day. The group welcomes all beginners and the more experienced as well. Gerry will break you into basic steps, while Peggy and Beverly have new and exciting dances for all abilities. If you are a beginning couple and would like a private preview to see if this is for you, call Gerry at 731-9734.

This is a community center-sponsored program, so there is no charge other than a big smile. Gerry hopes to see you in 2007. Schedules are: couples at 9 a.m., beginners at 10 and intermediates at 10:15 a.m.

Yoga

"While yoga evolved as a spiritual practice, in the West it has grown popular as a form of purely physical exercise. Some western practice has little or nothing to do with Hinduism or spirituality, but is simply a way of keeping healthy and fit," (Yoga Journal). Come, join this group and let the energy flow with proper stretching, breathing and concentration.

Diana Baird and Addie Greer lead this active group, which meets every Tuesday from 10 to 11:30 a.m. Everyone is welcome.

Weight Watchers

The group meets at the center 4:45 to 6:45 p.m. every Wednesday. After the holidays, we need to get back on track with good, healthy eating as well as lots of exercise. Come join this group.

Computer class

We are pleased to announce that the community center is now offering wireless Internet connectivity. A recently-acquired piece of hardware provides us with this capability.

Your computer will need to be able to access the wireless network. And, in addition, you will need to register at the reception desk. Registration takes only a few minutes, requires a one-time-only fee of $2, and allows you access to the center's Internet connection. Stop by to get the instruction sheet, which will walk you through the login process. We welcome your comments and suggestions.

The January Beginning Computing classes will start next week, Tuesday, Jan 16, and Wednesday, Jan 17. Becky will call all class participants to be sure those who have signed up are actually planning to attend. If you haven't received a call, don't hesitate to contact the center to find your place on the waiting list and when you can expect a place in one of the classes.

eBay class

Ben Bailey, our volunteer for this free program, teaches the class on how to sell and buy goods through eBay. Learning this skill is fun and you may even make money that you didn't expect. And, if you do make money, remember the center - we'll appreciate any donation.

The group meets twice a month, every first and third Wednesday from 5:30-7:30 p.m. January 17 is the date for the next class.

Open gym

Every Tuesday and Thursday morning from 8 to 9 a.m. the Hoopsters meet for an hour of "exercise basketball." Call Larry Page, 264-1096, or just come to the gym. This is another free program offered by the center. It's a fun way to exercise and meet new friends. Larry invites everyone to join; this is open to all, including those who go to work. Remember, the center has shower and locker facilities that anybody can use - so, there should be no excuses.

Another open gym takes place noon-1:15 p.m. Fridays. Dan Aupperle is the contact person for this activity. Call Dan at the downtown Citizens Bank if you're interested in participating.

Scrapbooking

It is time to organize those holiday photos and cards. Come join the Scrapbook Club sponsored by the center. Melissa Bailey is our volunteer in charge of this free program. The January meeting is this Saturday, Jan. 13, from 10 a.m.-3 p.m. The club will meet in the North Conference Room, which is close to the northwest side entrance of the center. If there is a specific tool you need to complete your project, give Melissa a call so she can see if she can find it for you. Her home number is 731-1574. Please remember there is no cost to come and work on whatever project you have.

Center's hours

The community center's winter hours are Monday through Friday, 8 a.m.-5 p.m.; Saturday, 10-4. Call 264-4152.

Activities this week

Today - Hoopsters basketball for exercise, 8-9 a.m.; Teen Center open, 3:30-6:30 p.m.; Trinity Anglican Church bible study, 6:30-8:30 p.m.

Jan. 12 - Senior Walk, 11:15-11:35 a.m.; open basketball, 12 noon-1:15 p.m.; Bridge-4-Fun, 12:30-4 p.m.; 4H Cloverbuds, 1:30-3:30 p.m.; Teen Center open, 3:30-6:30 p.m.; Wolf Creek Backcountry Avalanche Training, 6-9 p.m.;

Jan. 13 - Wolf Creek Backcountry Avalanche Training, 8 a.m.-noon; drawing class with Randall Davis, 9 a.m.-4 p.m.; scrapbooking class, 10 a.m.-3 p.m.;

Jan. 14 - 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 p.m.-8 p.m.;

Jan. 15 &emdash;Center is closed in observance of Martin Luther King Jr. Day.

Jan. 16 - Hoopsters basketball for exercise, 8-9 a.m.; watercolor class, 9 a.m.-4 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.;

Jan. 17 - Watercolor class, 9 a.m.- 4 p.m.; Senior Walk, 11:15-11:35 a.m.; seniors' Aikido class, 1-2 p.m.; Teen Center open, 3:30-6:30 p.m.; Weight Watchers, 4:45-6:45 p.m.; youth basketball, 5:30-8:30 p.m.; Knights of Columbus meeting, 6:30-8:30 p.m.;

Jan. 18 - Hoopsters basketball for exercise, 8-9 a.m.; Teen Center open, 3:30-6:30 p.m.; Arts Council open house, 4-7 p.m.; Chimney Rock meeting, 6-8 p.m.; Trinity Anglican Church bible study, 6:30-8:30 p.m.

Cohabiting seniors should protect their rights

By Jeni Wiskofske

SUN Columnist

More and more senior citizens are living together without getting married. According to U.S. census data, the number of cohabiting seniors nearly doubled between 1989 and 2000.

For some seniors, marriage isn't financially worth it because they don't want to lose their former spouses' military, pension, or Social Security benefits. Others don't want to have to pay their partners' medical expenses or get entangled with the objections of children worried about their inheritance.

But there are risks to cohabiting without marriage, as well. For instance, you have no rights concerning your partner's health care decisions. In addition, you may be considered married at common law by a court after you die &endash; possibly causing a dispute between your partner and your children.

If you and your partner plan to live together without getting married, you can take a number of steps to ensure that you are protected and your wishes are followed.

Sign a cohabitation agreement. This type of agreement can state your intentions not to be considered legally married at common law, or to make nay legal claims against each other or be responsible for each other's debts. It can also specify the division of household expenses and what will happen to your house in the event of death or breakup.

Provide access to health care decisions making. If you are not married, you have no right to participate in your partner's health care decisions, or even in some circumstances to visit your partner at the hospital. To avoid this, you need several documents. You can sign a medical release under a federal law to allow each other access to medical information. In addition, you should have a health care proxy or a durable power of attorney for health care designating your partner as your agent to make health care decisions. Sign a durable power of attorney. A power of attorney allows your partner to make financial decisions foe you if you become incapacitated. Without a power of attorney, a court will have to appoint a conservator or guardian to make those decisions and the judge might not choose the person you would prefer.

Update your will. Your will should be clear about what happens to your possessions when you die, including your house and its contents. It is particularly important to specify what will happen to your house if you don't own it jointly with your partner.

Think about the tax consequences of gifts. Married couples can leave each other as much as they want without paying estate taxes, but unmarried couples cannot. If you want to leave money to your partner, you can speak with us to find ways to limit estate taxes.

Look into registering as domestic partners. Some cities and states have domestic partnership laws, which may allow unmarried couples to take advantage of their partners' health insurance or to participate in health care decisions.

Thyroid fact sheet

The thyroid gland is the small, butterfly-shaped gland found just below the Adam's apple. The thyroid gland produces hormones that influence essentially every organ, tissue and cell in the body. In short, if the thyroid doesn't work properly, neither do you. If left untreated, thyroid disease can cause elevated cholesterol levels and subsequent heart disease, infertility, muscle weakness, osteoporosis and, in extreme cases, coma or death.

Twenty-seven million Americans have overactive or underactive thyroid glands but more than half remain undiagnosed. More than eight out of 10 patients with thyroid disease are women. Women are five to eight times more likely than men to suffer from hypothyroidism (underactive thyroid). Fifteen to 20 percent of people with diabetes and their siblings or parents are likely to develop thyroid disease (compared to 4 percent of the general population).

Nearly one out of 50 women in the U.S. is diagnosed with hypothyroidism during pregnancy. Six out of every 100 miscarriages are associated with thyroid hormone deficiencies during pregnancy. Five to 18 percent of women are diagnosed with postpartum thyroiditis. Approximately 25 percent of women will develop permanent hypothyroidism. Incidence of hypothyroidism increases with age. By age 60, as many as 17 percent of women and 9 percent of men have an under active thyroid.

Some common symptoms of hyperthyroidism are as follows: heat intolerance; sweating; weight loss; alterations in appetite; frequent bowel movements; changes in vision; fatigue and muscle weakness; impaired fertility; mental disturbances; sleep disturbances; tremors; thyroid enlargement; forgetfulness; depression; dry, course hair or skin; mood swings; weight gain; hoarse voice; and constipation.

Check with your physician if you are experiencing any of the above symptoms or would like more information on hyperthyroidism.

Lifelong Learning - Sudoku

Sharpen your brain with Sudoku - a fun way to activate your mind. Sudoku puzzles are now available everywhere - books, the Internet, in The PREVIEW. The Sudoku class in December was so much fun that everyone wanted another session. On Friday, Jan. 12, a Sudoku class will be held at The Den at 1 p.m. in the lounge. The basic instructions will be taught, then puzzles will be done in a group. Various sources of puzzles and how to select the ones you want will be discussed.

Instructor Katy Deshler has been doing Sudoku puzzles for about a year. She has found that the instructions are simple, but actually completing the puzzles can be challenging. Assistance from people who do them regularly has helped her improve her ability and enjoyment of the puzzles. And she wants to assist others to get started learning Sudoku so they can also enjoy this brain-stimulating form of recreation.

Closed for the holiday

The Silver Foxes Den Senior Center will be closed Monday, Jan. 15, for Martin Luther King, Jr. Day. We will look forward to seeing you all for lunch on Tuesday.

Sky Ute Casino

Step into the action and play to have fun during our monthly trip to Sky Ute Casino Tuesday, Jan. 16. Free transportation (with limited seating) provided by Sky Ute leaves The Den at 1 p.m. returning at approximately 6. Play the slots, hang out with friends and win (or lose), you are sure to have a great time! Sign up with The Den to participate.

Nails with Dru

Do you want to feel pampered? Or how about some fun conversation while doing something nice for yourself? Dru Sewel has offered to do your nails free of charge at The Den on Wednesdays, 9:30-11 a.m. You can either make an appointment or drop in for your nail treatment. Dru will trim, file and paint your nails while entertaining you with her bubbly personality.

Dance For Health

Dance For Health classes will be available at The Den Wednesdays at 10 a.m. free of charge. Karma Raley, the dance instructor, enjoys sharing her love of dance and blends basic ballet, modern jazz, and jazz dance with yoga awareness to create a full body routine which makes it possible to work out to the degree you want and/or need to. Wear loose comfortable clothing and bring a mat or towel. Join us at The Den and learn great dance techniques while having a fun time exercising!

Aikido

Aikido is a relatively modern martial art, although its roots go back nearly a thousand years to secret techniques of samurai warriors. In January, The Den is offering Aikido classes every Wednesday at 1 p.m. with instructors Bill Trimarco and Lisa Jensen. Aikido students will learn how to redirect an attacker's energy with hand techniques, and train with the wooden sword and short staff. Aikido is beneficial for health, coordination, stress relief and character with the goal of bettering oneself rather than trying to be better than an opponent. Sign up with The Den if you would like to participate in the January classes.

An afternoon of culture

You don't need a big city for fine dining and culture _ we have it all right here in our lovely mountain town of Pagosa Springs.

The Den would like to invite you to join us Thursday, Jan. 18, for an afternoon of fun as we explore the finer things in our quaint town. Our day will begin with a luncheon at Dionigi's Restaurant at noon, as we enjoy a taste of Italy right here in Pagosa. You will have a choice of four classic Italian entrees including eggplant parmesan, chicken parmesan, fettuccine alfredo, or spaghetti and meatballs, along with a salad, bread and a drink for the all-inclusive price of only $10.

After our delicious dining experience, we will attend a tour of Shy Rabbit Contemporary Art and view "Hold It!," an exhibition of contemporary containers. The show opened in December and runs through Jan. 20. This elegant exhibition features seven emerging and mid-career artists working in varying and somewhat unconventional mediums. "Hold It!" artists were asked to stretch the concept of a typical container or vessel. This exhibition entertains the viewer's imagination with a wide range of materials and forms. Several of the artists invited to participate in "Hold it!" had existing works that fit the show theme; others created new work inspired by the show title and the freedom they were allowed in the process. The process was a very organic one that resulted in the creation of work that is natural and unforced. Please make your reservation with The Den by Tuesday, Jan. 16, for this afternoon excursion. Transportation will be provided by The Den for $2. We look forward to sharing a slice of culture with you, Pagosa style!

Inside Out Day

It is Inside Out Day at The Den Friday, Jan. 19. When you get dressed in the morning, make sure all of your tags and seams are on the outside rather than the inside. Yes, I mean wear your clothes inside out! We will have some great prizes for those who look a little funny that day.

Sing-alongs with Judy Esterly

On Friday, Jan. 19, at 12:45 p.m., The Den is happy to welcome Judy Esterly for some great fun and music. Judy has been playing guitar and singing for 43 years and considers herself "a plinker and a plunker." She has offered to join us at The Den for sing-alongs to some favorite songs (song sheets supplied) as a way of giving back to our community and to just have a great time!

Seniors Inc. memberships

In January, 2007 Seniors Inc. memberships for folks 55 and older will be sold at The Den. The 2007 memberships can be purchased for $5 on Mondays, Tuesdays, Wednesdays and Fridays, 9 a.m.-2 p.m. Memberships will not be sold Thursdays.

Your Seniors Inc. membership entitles you to a variety of discounts from participating merchants. For qualifying members, it provides scholarships to assist with the costs for eyeglasses, hearing aids, dental expenses, and prescription and medical equipment. Your Seniors Inc. membership will also cover $20 of the $30 transportation fee for medical shuttles to Durango. The Den's Monthly Mystery trips to fascinating destinations are sponsored by Seniors Inc. so these cool trips in the warmer months are open to all Seniors Inc. members.

As you can see, the benefits of a Seniors Inc. membership are endless, so stop in at The Den during the scheduled hours to renew or purchase your first annual membership. Please remember that you do not need to be a Seniors Inc. member to join us at The Den. Everyone is welcome to be a part of our extended family.

Activities at a glance

Thursday, Jan. 11 - The Den is closed.

Friday, Jan. 12 - The Geezers meeting, 9 a.m.; gym walk, 11:15 a.m.; Bridge-4-Fun, 12:30 p.m.; duplicate bridge, 12:30 p.m.; Seniors Inc. board meeting, 1 p.m.; Sudoku class, 1 p.m.

Monday, Jan. 15 - The Den is closed for Martin Luther King, Jr. Day.

Tuesday, Jan. 16 - Yoga, 10 a.m.; gym walk, 11:15 a.m.; blood pressure checks, 11:30 a.m.; canasta, 1 p.m.; Sky Ute Casino, 1 p.m.; final day to make reservations for Dionigi's luncheon and Shy Rabbit tour.

Wednesday, Jan. 17 - Nails with Dru, 9:30-11 a.m.; Dance For Health class, 10 a.m.; basic computer class, 10 a.m.; Visually Impaired Persons (VIPS) support group is cancelled; "Ask the Doc" about thyroid disease, with Dr. Bricca, 12:30 p.m.; Aikido class, 1 p.m.

Thursday, Jan. 18 - Blood pressure checks in Arboles, 11:45 p.m.; lunch served in Arboles (reservations required), noon; Dionigi's luncheon and Shy Rabbit tour (reservations required), noon. The Den is closed.

Friday, Jan. 19 - The Geezers meeting, 9 a.m.; gym walk, 11:15 a.m.; Inside Out Day, noon; Bridge-4-Fun, 12:30 p.m.; duplicate bridge, 12:30 p.m.; music with Judy Esterly, 12:45 p.m.

Menu

Suggested donation $3 for ages 60-plus and kids 12 and under, all others $5.

Salad bar available every day at The Den beginning at 11:30 a.m. Menu subject to change.

Friday, Jan. 12 - Chili con carne, broccoli cuts, pineapple and mandarin oranges, and corn bread.

Monday, Jan. 15 - The Den is closed for Martin Luther King, Jr. Day.

Tuesday, Jan. 16 - Meatloaf with gravy, mashed potatoes, asparagus, pineapple tidbits, and whole wheat roll.

Wednesday, Jan. 17 - Turkey sandwich, pea soup, relish platter, Cole slaw, and mixed fruit with bananas.

Thursday, Jan. 18 - Lunch served in Arboles (reservations required). Meatballs with gravy, mashed potatoes, vegetable medley, whole wheat roll, and cherry cobbler.

Friday, Jan. 19 - Roast beef with gravy, mashed potatoes, green beans, apricots and peaches, and whole wheat roll.

Using the Internet for military information

By Andy Fautheree

This office makes extensive use of the Internet to help veterans, families and loved ones, with information and assistance with VA claims and benefits, and resources for other information related to military service. I get all of my VA benefit and claims forms and much information from the official VA Internet Web site: http://www.va.gov/index.htm

One benefit of using the Internet for veterans' services is information.

The Internet is the world's largest depository of information in the history of mankind. A person can look up military information on where and whom served with, Army, Marine Corps, Coast Guard outfits, Navy ships, almost an infinitesimal amount of information on almost any subject.

As an example, I have found about 100 pictures of my old ship and fellow crew members who I served with in the Navy.

Vietnam Wall

I recently came across some information about the Vietnam Wall in Washington D.C. on the Internet that I wasn't aware of. I am planning a trip to the Vietnam Wall on Memorial Day 2007 and I wanted to know more information about the wall to assist with planning for the trip.

As you are probably aware, the names of every known person, over 58,000 who died in the Vietnam War, are shown on the Vietnam Wall Memorial. I'm sure many visitors to the Vietnam Wall go there for many personal reasons, to remember someone who died in that conflict - a buddy, a husband or wife, a son or daughter, a father or mother or loved one, or perhaps just someone who may be special to the visitor. We all have our reasons to visit the wall and remember.

Name rubbings

I have often heard that many visiting the Vietnam Wall like to make a rubbing of the name of the person who is special to them.

I found an Internet Web site you can go to a get a "virtual" rubbing of any person's name that is engraved on the Vietnam Wall: http://www.vietnamwall.org/search.php. I tried it and it works. You can look up the name and create the "rubbing" of that name, and print it out (in black and white) just as if you were there at the wall, with pencil and paper.

Library computers

If you do not have Internet at home you can go to the local library and use their computers for Internet research.

Isn't the Internet wonderful? The marvel of our age!

I think it is.

Fuel money

Don't forget to stop by my office with your "proof of appointment" information, fuel and overnight accommodation receipts to VA health care appointments for reimbursement of expenses. We are currently reimbursing nearly 100 percent of your VA Health Care travel expenses. Also, help a fellow veteran who may be going in the same direction to the same VA facility and give me a call if you can provide transportation or need transportation. I will keep a calendar of who is going where to coordinate this important program.

Durango VA Clinic

The Durango VA Outpatient Clinic is located at 400 South Camino Del Rio, Suite G, (next to Big 5 Sports). Phone number is 247-2214. Albuquerque VAMC phone number is (800) 465-8262.

Further information

For information on these and other veterans' benefits, call or stop by the Archuleta County Veterans Service Office located at 46 Eaton Drive, Suite 7 (behind City Market). The office number is 731-3837.

Cookbooks local and international - a treasure trove of recipes