PAWS sets March 8 public hearing on fluoridation issue

By Tom Carosello

Staff Writer

Is fluoride a beneficial additive to public water supplies or an outdated, detrimental toxin?

That question dominated the opening of Tuesday's meeting of the Pagosa Area Water and Sanitation District board of directors, marking the second time this year the topic of fluoridation has surfaced during a district board session.

As a result, the board has tentatively scheduled a public hearing on the issue for Tuesday, March 8, at 6:30 p.m. in the Pagosa Springs Community Center.

This week's board meeting served as a follow-up of sorts to a Jan. 25 session in which Wayne and Cathy Justus, accompanied by over two dozen supporters, asserted fluoride is essentially toxic waste.

During an hour-long presentation, the Justuses argued that fluoride should not be considered a reliable means for prevention of tooth decay, but a hazardous industrial by-product that apparently contributed to the death of at least one of the couple's quarter horses.

In response, at the onset of Tuesday's meeting, Gene Tautges, district assistant general manager, addressed the board and roughly 20 members of the public concerning the history of and basis for the use of fluoride in district water supplies.

At the direction of the board, said Tautges, the district began fluoridation in 1985 based on what, at the time, was believed to be "good science" dating back to the 1950s.

Acknowledging thousands of studies which bolster both sides of the fluoridation argument exist, "It seems like it was viewed to be in the best interest of the public to do it, and I feel like that is still the driving force behind it, today," said Tautges.

After citing the facts that fluoride consumption has been proven to result in certain health benefits yet can be hazardous if ingested in excessive amounts, "I don't think any good district or municipality would consciously put anything in the water that is harmful to the public," said Tautges.

"But I think anybody would say more study is certainly not a bad thing," he added.

Further discussion led to a number of questions, including some concerning the levels of naturally-occurring fluoride in area reservoirs and streams.

According to Tautges, district tests have revealed that several bodies of water in the area include natural fluoride, though all that tested positive had levels below 1 part per million.

One question from board member Windsor Chacey touched on the amount of fluoride the district adds to its water supply and how frequently the level is tested.

"We are constantly monitoring it and adjusting the feed rate on a daily basis," replied Art Holloman, district superintendent, adding the district uses a form of fluoride known as sodium fluorosilicate.

With regard to how much sodium fluorosilicate is added to district water, Holloman indicated the amount equates to 1.1 parts per million, or 1.1 milligrams per liter, well below the state-allowed maximum of 4 parts per million.

In response to an audience member's question regarding the purity of sodium fluorosilicate, Tautges indicated the district uses a "nearly pure" form consisting of 98 percent sodium fluorosilicate, .5 percent water and .5 percent insoluble matter.

In reply to another question concerning the primary source of the district's sodium fluorosilicate, "I can't tell you, for sure, because we get it from a chemical distributor and not a manufacturer," said Tautges.

One attendee stated that sodium fluorosilicate, in its pure form, has been listed as a toxin.

"It is," replied Tautges. "Not so much in a diluted state, but if you put your fingers in the bag and lick them - then yes."

Others in attendance said fluoridation eliminates free choice since the district "is our sole source for water," while others argued the practice should be eliminated because it amounts to "mass medicating the public" and "practicing medicine without a license."

In the end, "I think it is important for us to hear from all sides on this issue," said Karen Wessels, board chair.

"To be fair, we need to give the rest of the people in the district an opportunity to comment before we make any decision on this," added Wessels. "We have that responsibility to our constituency."

The board agreed, eventually setting the March 8 hearing date, pending availability of the community center.

In conclusion, the board indicated the hearing will be moderated by a professional facilitator.

The board also noted that the hearing will not be a forum for debate, but used as a means for gathering public input.

Physicians outline community care needs

By Tess Noel Baker

Staff Writer

Access to needed equipment. Access to needed personnel, including doctors willing to relocate long term. Access to a financial support structure capable of handling the load.

They're the problems facing those in health care across the country and those looming large in the Pagosa area.

Dr. Mark Wienpahl, one of four primary care physicians working at Pagosa Family Medicine, a private clinic currently serving 75-80 percent of the population, said the pieces are in place, it's simply a matter of arranging them to fit.

The right pieces include the Dr. Mary Fisher Foundation, the tax-supported Upper San Juan Health Service District, a strong local group of physicians, 12 acres of land already set aside in a central location for health care. What's needed, he said, is a plan - not a Band-Aid - that moves the community forward

Dr. John Piccaro, another partner in the group, outlined the challenges. Although Pagosa Family Medicine is a private operation, in many ways it functions like a public clinic because the doors are open to the uninsured and underinsured with very few exceptions.

"We are a rarity," Piccaro said. "We're one of the few private clinics still open to everybody." Currently, it is open six days a week and staffed by four physicians and two mid-levels - physicians assistants or family nurse practitioners. Three providers are in the office during open hours. They aren't the only primary care option in town, but they cater to the bulk of the community's patients without seeing a penny of public money, besides collecting on a grant here or there.

Dr. Jim Pruitt, original owner of the family medicine center, said between 90 and 100 patients a day, around 2,000 a month, are seen. Of those, just over half are uninsured or underinsured.

Piccaro said the underinsured include those on Medicare and Medicaid, two federal programs which reimburse providers at a rate less than the cost of services.

"Basically in those cases, we're working for free, or we may be paying to see a patient," he said. Still, they've made it work, and are still making it work. In fact, if the Dr. Mary Fisher Medical Center closes, they will continue to try to make it work. All the Pagosa Family Medicine providers agreed the system needs to work without a pubic clinic competing with private doctors.

What they'd like to see is the public health care dollars going toward moving the entire system forward - "even bringing us up to the 1990s," Picarro said. Without cooperation, the money simply isn't there.

And moving the system forward means better equipment, more coverage and the ancillary services to provide safe, quality after-hours and emergent care.

Right now, Picarro said, "We're alone out there." When covering on-call services at night physicians in Pagosa Springs are without nurses, without X-ray technicians, without a lab.

That's scary for anyone and especially, he said, for doctors thinking of moving to the community, thinking of a long-term commitment. Pay is better elsewhere. The hours are better elsewhere. The support services are better elsewhere. And without new, committed physicians moving in here, the system breaks down as well, all agreed.

Since a new board of directors was elected to serve the Upper San Juan Health Service District in May, negotiations between the publicly-funded district and the private physicians for contracted services have been ongoing. Because of the current financial morass at the district, no agreement has ever been reached.

"We presented a statement of work for the whole nine yards," Pruitt said. That included needed support staff and needed services the area has never had.

"Even maximizing what we had," Wienphal said. "We were several hundred thousand dollars apart."

The district board, which includes Pruitt, will be faced Feb. 15 with the decision of what to do with the Dr. Mary Fisher Medical Center in the short term. Contracts with two current physicians run out March 31, ending two decades of primary care service. From there, the board has discussed opening as an urgent center, a critical access hospital or simply renting out space until a long-term plan can be constructed.

Many have asked why Pagosa Family doesn't simply pick up and move into the Mary Fisher complex, thereby saving the overhead necessary to run two facilities.

The goal, Pruitt said, was to reserve that facility for expanded services, not to fracture the current group or duplicate services.

And Wienpahl added, the bottom line is that it's time to plan, to put real numbers on paper, to go to the people with real numbers, not to continue to Band-Aid the same problems.

"The question is does the community have enough money globally to do what they want to do?" he said. "I think we agree the answer is no."

The next step, all agreed, is to put the district, the people with the tax money earmarked for health care, in a secure financial position and continue talking.

"There has to be cooperation among everyone for this to work," Pruitt said.

Seven named to new airport advisory panel

By Tom Carosello

Staff Writer

Archuleta County has a new airport advisory committee.

During a special meeting Tuesday, the county board of commissioners appointed a seven-member panel to assist with decision-making and airport operations at Stevens Field.

Appointed to three-year terms on the panel were Bob Howard, Nancy Torrey and Gerald Pearson.

Members appointed to serve two-year terms were Mark Weiler and Elmer Schettler, while Henry Silver and Tom Broadbent were appointed for one-year terms.

Areas of concern the newly-appointed committee will be expected to address include the following:

- federal, state and local rules and regulations to include, but not be limited to spill prevention, control and countermeasure, storm water management, EPA requirements, building and fire codes and local planning considerations;

- continued upgrade, on at least an annual basis, of the Capital Improvement Program used by the Federal Aviation Administration and State Division of Aeronautics to authorize/allocate grant funding;

- continued upgrade of airport minimum standards and policy guidelines;

- development of a viable airport business plan;

- midfield apron build-out to include architectural standards, hangar construction, aircraft parking facilities, utilities infrastructure, long-term airport automobile parking;

- development of the annual county budget.

Committee meetings will apparently be held "as needed, but no less frequent than bimonthly," with times and locations to be published accordingly.

A chairman, vice chairman and secretary are to be elected from within the committee and will be expected to serve one-year terms.

The search for panel members began Dec. 14, when the board voted to reestablish a county airport advisory committee and authorized a related proposal calling for five appointments.

A similar panel, deemed "The Airport Authority," was created in 1991, then terminated in September 2002, apparently because it had come to be viewed by many as an unnecessary layer of government.

In related airport business, a new entity has assumed fixed base operator responsibilities at Stevens.

During Tuesday's session, the board approved transfer of the county airport's fixed base operator agreement and lease to Avjet Corporation.

The transfer was the result of a request to the board from Wind Dancer Aviation, former fixed base operator at Stevens, indicating wishes to "assign its rights and obligations" under an October 2002 FBO agreement to Avjet.

Avjet Corporation is a multimillion dollar, full-service aviation company with primary offices in Burbank, Calif. and Hasbrouck Heights, NJ.

In other business this week, the board:

- appointed Robert Moomaw, Christiane Karas, Dan Aupperle and Rodney Class-Erickson to three-year terms on the Upper San Juan Regional Planning Commission;

- approved an agreement for jail medical services with Pagosa Family Medicine;

- directed staff to collaborate with the town of Pagosa Springs to pursue qualifications from firms interested in preparing a study regarding the potential creation of town and county impact fees.

Chemical spill validates new school safety plan

By Tess Noel Baker

and Richard Walter

Staff Writers

Baking soda was the cure needed for a small chemical spill at Pagosa Springs High School Monday.

Principal Bill Esterbrook said a bottle of diluted hydrochloric acid was spilled as a teacher was preparing a demonstration for class.

"The teacher was in a storeroom; no students were present. They were all in the classroom," Esterbrook said. Because it was a hazardous material, the classroom was evacuated. The Pagosa Fire Protection District was called to assess the damage.

Chief Warren Grams said a team of five entered the classroom with respirators and neutralized the acid with baking soda.

"No students were in any danger," he said. Firefighters were called about 9:35 a.m. and left about three hours later.

Esterbrook said all students in the classroom were evaluated by the school nurse. Two students were taken to the doctor by parents. Both were treated and released.

The teacher was slightly injured when some of the spill splashed in an eye. He was back in school the next day.

Esterbrook said the teacher diluted the spill immediately with water and ventilated the classroom. After neutralizing the spill and consulting with a clean-up firm in Farmington, the classroom was declared safe.

Classes went on as normal in the remainder of the building.

School board members were notified of the incident Tuesday night. On their agenda for the evening was approval of a new School Safety Plan two years in the making.

It had been utilized during the Monday incident though not formally approved said Steve Walston, district maintenance director.

Walston said the firemen, two in "bunker gear," utilized hazardous materials container bags to remove items during the safety cleanup.

By noon, he said, "we felt there was no longer a possible hazard and by 12:15 cleanup was complete."

The chemical spilled, he said, was part of a half-gallon container of a 35-percent solution of hydrogen chloride.

"The coordination and individual efforts of staff and fire personnel made everything go well," Walston said. "We were able to isolate the potential danger, the possible victims, and keep the area restricted."

Shortly thereafter, the new safety plan, having already worked, was formally adopted on a unanimous board vote.

County restructures landfill, transfer fees

By Tom Carosello

Staff Writer

For the second time this year, Archuleta County landfill and transfer station fees have undergone adjustments.

In response to widespread concerns resulting from Jan. 1 fee hikes deemed inappropriate by many, county commissioners moved this week to enact changes.

After a special meeting Tuesday which concluded with the implementation of a new fee schedule, "We appreciated all of the input we received from the citizens; we listened, and we acted," said Mamie Lynch, board chair.

As a result, a fee schedule based primarily on a graduated scale has been implemented.

The following is a breakdown of 2005 fee changes approved Tuesday, effective for the Pagosa Springs transfer station, county landfill and Arboles transfer station:

- minimum fee charges have been eliminated;

- the county will charge a fee of $1 per bag for up to seven bags of refuse, with maximum bag size being 33 gallons;

- for quantities in excess of the seven-bag limit, the county will charge $14.75 per cubic yard.

Another measure approved by the board Tuesday concerns stiffer enforcement of the county's secure load ordinance.

To that effect, "It was a difficult decision, but we also instituted doubling the fees for unsecured loads at the county landfill," said Lynch.

The county's secure load ordinance requires all loads to be covered, tarped or secured.

Chromo transfer station

The board took no action Tuesday regarding the Jan. 1 closing of the Chromo transfer station on County Road 382.

Trends toward increased operating and maintenance costs and encroaching use by out-of-state residents were cited as the main factors in the previous board's mid-November decision to permanently close the station.

However, according to Lynch, Waste Management has indicated it intends to operate in the area for a duration of two hours at least once a week.

Chromo residents seeking alternatives to hauling solid waste to other transfer stations or the county landfill can contact Waste Management at 264-5622 or (800) 274-6284.

For further information concerning the closing of this facility, contact the county solid waste department at 264-0193.

Student development data use creates move to add new admin post

By Richard Walter

Staff Writer

The flood of statistical data emanating from new testing procedures established by both state and federal mandate offers a vast volume of tracking material for the individual student.

If, that is, you have someone who is trained to analyze that data and transform it into workable programming that will help the single student advance proportionately.

That, in essence, was the base argument Tuesday as school officials dealt with the surfeit of data by creating a new assistant superintendent position for Archuleta School District 50 Joint.

The job, to be posted immediately, is called "Assistant Superintendent for Curriculum and Assessment." The person chosen will report directly to the superintendent and will be the No. 2 administrator in the district.

Superintendent Duane Noggle said the post will be the funnel through which all the statistical data will be poured, "the place where we can see a single student's progress or lack thereof and use his or her personal study data to proscribe a plan of study."

The persons selected will be a full-time district employe at a salary to be determined but based on existing scale within the district.

The new administrator will be required to hold a master's degree or better, hold or be able to obtain a state professional administrator license, demonstrate past success in working with and through staff in establishing and attaining district goals, be knowledgeable in curriculum development, have knowledge and experience in multiple means of student assessment, and be skilled in the use of various computer software and analysis of testing procedures and evaluation of scores and a means of advancement for the student.

Planned starting date for the new position is July 1.

Noggle told the board of education he had held extensive consultation with Nancy Schutz, business manager for the district, and with building principals before recommending addition of the position.

He said the move was proposed partly out of the need to meet state and federal mandates, "but more importantly, we believe this position can have the greatest impact on student achievement.

"The problem we face today," he said, "is that we have access to a tremendous amount of data for all students, groups of students and individual students. Unfortunately, we do not have the trained personnel who can dig in to the data and identify why a specific student is not learning."

With all the computer assisted technology now available and a staff development program focusing on professional learning communities, "We believe this is the next logical step in enhancing the district's instructional program", he said.

In conjunction with creation of the post the administration, Noggle said, will recommend next month an additional four days on the school calendar, three for professional development and one instructional.

Paying for that and the new administrative position, Noggle reminded the board, will require spending down district reserves.

That, however, will not be a problem, said Schutz.

"We added to reserves this year," she said, "and I demanded to be shown that the move is cost effective before I'd give approval. I got that and believe the move is the right one. There is money available, and the move is one which will benefit the entire district, most importantly, the individual student."

Noting the move is at least in part designed to remove overwhelming work loads from building principals, Director Clifford Lucero said, "I've seen what they have to do and they're all swamped. We need to give them this help to ease that load."

Director Mike Haynes, board president, noted the No Child Left Behind federal mandate requires that every child in every class be deemed proficient by the year 2014.

"We need this kind of help now to reach that required student achievement goal," he said. "But it will entail an unexpected cost."

And again, he asked Schutz for her final evaluation.

"I'm convinced it will be money well spent," she said, "even if it means taking from reserves. Our job is to fund the best education we can for all students. This is a means of achieving that end."

With that pronouncement, the proposal was approved unanimously on a motion by Sandy Caves, seconded by Jon Forrest.

Comprehensive planning panel being formed

The Town of Pagosa Springs invites residents of Archuleta County and the town to serve on a 12-person Comprehensive Plan Advisory Committee.

The Advisory Committee will be asked to meet at varying times on multiple occasions for the duration of the comprehensive planning process, which is expected to a year.

Interested community members should submit a cover letter no longer than one page explaining their interests in participating in the comprehensive planning process, what they can bring to the plan and what they hope to achieve from the being on the advisory committee. Contact information - a physical and mailing address, phone number, and e-mail - should also be included.

Submit letters to Town of Pagosa Springs, Comprehensive Plan Advisory Committee, PO Box 1859, Pagosa Springs, CO 81147. Applications will be accepted until March 1.

Piñon Causeway to close for repairs

By Tom Carosello

Staff Writer

If you've been thinking Piñon Causeway could use a little "TLC," you're not alone.

During a special session Tuesday, Archuleta County commissioners approved a resolution that will temporarily restrict nonessential traffic on Piñon yet maintain access for local residents while the deteriorating roadway is repaired.

According to the resolution, a road closure from the intersection of Piñon and Village Drive extending north 900 feet on Piñon will be in effect for up to 90 days, "with this 900-foot segment of Piñon Causeway remaining open to local traffic from its southern terminus only."

However, the intersection of Piñon and Village will remain open.

Signs alerting the public to the closure should be in place by the weekend, and further details of the closure will be published in next week's edition of The SUN.

Blood draw set

United Blood Services will conduct a blood draw in Pagosa Springs 1-6 p.m. Thursday, Feb. 24.

Site will be Community United Methodist Church, 424 Lewis St.

Current identification is required of all potential donors.

You may sign up for blood drives in advance by going online to www.unitedbloodservices.org.

Corrections

In our Jan. 27 story titled "Federal jury awards Bass $800,000" the titles "plaintiff" and "defendant" were switched at points in the story. Bass was the plaintiff in the case; Archuleta County Sheriff Tom Richards, ex-undersheriff Russell Hebert and ex-deputy Tim Evans were the defendants.

In a letter to the editor Feb. 3 titled "Christian nation," by Robert Horstman, a SUN error listed an inaccurate date. The year the Trinity Decision was issued was 1892, not 1982.

Construction value in town up 142 percent in 2004

By Tess Noel Baker

Staff Writer

Get out the record books. Pagosa Springs needs to make a new entry.

Compared to 2003, overall construction valuation in the town was up 142 percent based on building permit fees issued. Permit fees collected showed an 86-percent jump.

When compared to 2000 - the previous record - fees were up 61 percent and overall valuation is up 50 percent. All of the numbers were presented to members of the town council at their regular meeting Feb. 1.

Total permit fees for 2004 reached almost $50,000. Construction valuation toed in just at the $11 million mark.

The largest projects for the year included a 25,000 square foot, $3.4 million expansion of City Market; a $1.24 million addition to the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints; a $700,000 expansion of the library and a $600,000 shell-only building on Talisman Drive.

Permits were also issued for eight new residential units with an average value of $218,500.

On the planning side, projects including 43 additional residential units were approved in 2004. Projects proposing another 163 residential units are continuing to make their way through the planning process. Thirty-five commercial units received approval in 2004.

Garcia said staff continues to work on numbers needed to compare the year in planning to 2003.

There's no question about sales tax receipts. According to numbers handed out to the town Tuesday, sales tax receipts for November, the most recent numbers available, were up over 14 percent when compared to the same month in 2003.

The town is also considering growth via annexation. Applications for annexation are being accepted through Feb. 11 and several are expected. Annexation petitions and procedures are available online at www.townofpagosasprings.com or by calling Town Planner Tamra Allen, 264-4151, Ext. 235.

Our Savior applauds top pupils

Our Savior Lutheran School is saluting students' efforts in the first semester of the school year.

Academic honors went to 46 percent of the pupils in grades two-six, including high honors for Sara Dale, Ryan McInnis, Caden Henderson, Hailie Davidson, Tim Shepherdson, Ian Geraghty, Reyes McInnis, Rebecca Maree, Haleigh Zenz, Lark Sanders and Danny Shepherdson.

88 with perfect 4.0 marks top high school honor roll

Eighty-eight Pagosa Springs High School students with perfect 4.0 grade point averages lead the first semester honor roll released Jan. 21 by Bill Esterbrook, principal.

Included are 29 seniors, 18 juniors, 24 sophomores an 17 juniors.

Seniors with perfect marks were Paula Alves, Randi Andersen, Shiloh Baker, Kyrie Beye, Kelli Ford, Brett Garman, Levi Gill, Esther Gordon, Janna Henry, Richard Lafferty.

Also, Esther Lloyd, Benjamin Loper, Manuel Madrid, Juan Martinez, Kelcie Mastin, Danine Mendoza, Audrey Miller, Jesse Morris, Chris Nobles, Ryan Ranson.

Also, Rachel Schur, Brianna Scott, Keagan Smith, Victoria Stanton, Courtney Steen, Alex Tapia, Lori Walkup, Rachel Watkins, and Kyle Wiggers.

Top echelon juniors were Heather Andersen, Daniel Aupperle, Sara Baum, Emily Buikema, Juan Calderon, Jake Cammack, Caitlin Forrest, Jim Guyton.

Also, Joshua Hoffman, Elizabeth Kelley, Matthew Nobles, Jakob Reding, Orion Sandoval, Emilie Schur, Casey Schutz, Craig Schutz, Katherina Vowles, and Veronica Zeiler.

Top sophomores were Shannon Baker, Hannah Clark, Kathryn Cumbie, Iris Frye, Kimberly Fulmer, Malinda Fultz, Alaina Garman, Joseph Gill, Jamilyn Harms.

Also, Casey Hart, Jennifer Haynes, Kerry Joe Hilsabeck, Shanti Johnson, Kimberly Judd, Sierra Lee, Jennifer Lobato, Jessica Lynch, Elise McDonald, Jesse Miller.

Also, Ellen Niehaus, Laurel Reinhardt, Grace Smith, Jessie Stewart and Jenni Webb-Shearston.

The 17 freshmen with perfect scores were Cody Bahn, Madeline Bergon, Caleb Burggraaf, Dan Cammack, Natalia Clark, Shannon DeBoer, Matthew Fackler.

Also, Kailee Kenyon, Mackenzie Kitson, Allison Laverty, Jessica Low, Travis Moore, Keith Pitcher, Trey Quiller, Forrest Rackham, Joshua Reding and Rebecca Stephens.

One senior, Christine Morrison, 11 juniors, seven sophomores and 12 freshmen just missed the top status, finishing the semester with averages of 3.75.

Juniors included Nikolos Carrizo, Heather Dahm, Kari Faber, Brittany Feyen, Sandra Griego, Kody Hanavan, Jennifer Hilsabeck, Ursala Hudson, Brittany Jaramillo, Guillermo Molina and Chelsea Taylor.

Sophomores at the 3.75 level were Jacob Beavers, Hayley Goodman, Anna Hershey, Kyle Kamolz, Tiffany Mayne, Max Smith and Trevor Trujillo.

Freshmen at the same level were Chance Adams, Patrick Ford, Bruce Hoch, Bradley Iverson, Joshua Laydon, Stephan Leslie, Michael Moore, Trisha Perea.

Also, Hannah Price, Sara Schultz, Jason Smith and Stephanie Zenz.

House candidate Roberts getting jump on competition

By Tom Carosello

Staff Writer

The 2006 general election is nearly two years away, but Durango attorney Ellen Roberts believes in being thorough.

That's one reason Roberts, a Republican candidate to succeed Mark Larson as Representative of Colorado House District 59, is hitting the campaign trail early.

During a formal announcement of her candidacy for the District 59 seat Jan. 15 at Pagosa Springs Town Hall, Roberts relayed some additional motives for getting an early jump on the competition.

"One of the main reasons I'm getting out early," said Roberts, "is because this is such a large district and I want to get to more meetings, meet more people and learn the district's issues of greatest concern."

Achieving reasonable solutions "for the many complex problems we are facing" will be a primary goal of her campaign, said Roberts, with specific focus on the areas of health care, economy and quality of life in rural Colorado.

Regarding health care, "I believe Colorado needs to be a leader instead of a 'lagger' in establishing and maintaining affordable and available health care policies at the state and local levels," said Roberts.

Roberts, who currently serves as chair of the Mercy Medical Center board of directors, lists the high costs of health care and the abundance of problems facing a growing number of uninsured and under-insured residents as major areas of concern.

Other important health care topics which need to be better addressed, said Roberts, include the shortage of primary care providers, lack of sufficient mental health services and the issue of inadequate preventive medicine.

Addressing the economy, "I know it's a long-term process," said Roberts, "but we have to work on getting Colorado back to a strong and diverse economy."

One way to begin such a restoration, said Roberts, "is to supply our state colleges and universities with adequate funding, because they produce the 'seed corn' for strong state and local economies."

Additional steps toward a thriving state economy cited by Roberts include ensuring funds are available for roads and basic human services, establishing an attractive business atmosphere and providing ample job opportunities.

"To me, it is unacceptable that Colorado has fallen to the bottom of state lists in areas like health, education and roads," said Roberts. "We need to build a stronger economy; our residents should and need to be employed, not scouring want ads for jobs in other states."

With respect to quality of life, Roberts indicated she intends to work to maintain "viable agricultural communities, and will be a strong advocate for rural Colorado."

Said Roberts, "Rural Coloradans inhabit 80 percent of the state's land, but are only 15 percent of the state's population.

"This means representatives from rural areas need to be heard loud, clear and often when our Front Range cousins try to make policies without giving due consideration or resources to those of us in rural areas."

Of special importance to rural Colorado, said Roberts, are the issues of water, land use and transportation.

"We have different concerns from the metro areas, and I am prepared to make those differences known and meaningfully considered by those under the 'gold dome,'" said Roberts.

In conclusion, "We've had very strong leadership from this district, and Mark Larson's shoes will be especially hard to fill," said Roberts.

"I know I'm in for a lot of meetings and miles, but I also know I'll meet with a lot of interesting people, so I really look forward to it," she added.

"And it's unusual for a 'freshman' coming in to have the experience I've built up over the years, so I believe I can 'hit the ground running,'" she concluded.

Background

Roberts has been in private practice as an attorney in Durango since 1989, focusing on the areas of estate planning, probate and business law.

She received her undergraduate degree from Cornell University in 1981 and her law degree from the University of Colorado in 1986.

Roberts is involved in several community activities and also serves on the First National Bank of Durango board of directors.

She has also been active with Club 20, and has worked with Rep. Larson on a number of bills.

In January of last year, she received the Durango Chamber of Commerce Athena Award, which recognizes individual professional excellence, as well as community service and assistance to women in attainment of professional excellence.

In December 2003, Roberts was featured as a "Four Corners Leader" in the Four Corners Business Journal, and was selected by her fellow Durango attorneys for the Professionalism Award in 2001.

She is mother to two teen-agers, Caitlin and Ben, and her husband, Rick, is a local home builder.

Outdoor Club scholarship applications due

Applications are now available for the San Juan Outdoor Club scholarship program.

They must be filed with the high school counselor, along with grade transcripts and essays, by spring break in March.

A club scholarship committee comprised of Patty Blide, Sara Scott and Gary Hopkins, chairman, will review all applications using a ranking scale (grades, SAT/ACT scores, school and community service leadership, employment history and sports and recreational activities) to select the top candidates for April interviews.

Interview questions will revolve around the reasons for the candidate's choice of major, college, career and plans for future community, recreational and environmental involvement.

The scholarship award is presented during graduation ceremonies and the winner introduced to club members at the June meeting.

Past club scholarship winners have been Seth Kurt-Mason, 2000; Patrick Riley, 2001; Mathew Ford, 2002; Sara Aupperle, Clayton Mastin and Jason Schutz in 2003; Melissa Diller, Jenna Finney, Amy Tautges and Melissa Wollenweber in 2004.

Funding for the scholarships, which have ranged from $500 to $1,000, is provided by member contributions, profits from the annual Sports Swap, and money received from helping register ATVs during the hunting season.

The club promotes and encourages the protection and maintenance of the environment and the expansion of recreational opportunities for all members of the community.

Democrats tap Chromo man as new chair

The Archuleta County Democratic Central Committee elected officers Feb. 2 for two-year terms.

Ben Douglas of Chromo was elected to the chair. Pagosa residents Rich Goebel, Gerda Witkamp and Lynda Van Patter were elected vice chair, treasurer, and secretary respectively.

The committee, under Douglas, is undergoing some organizational restructuring to form a more extensive base using subcommittees and perhaps additional members.

Subcommittees would focus on issues such as fund-raising, communications and outreach, candidate development, precinct organization, and event planning and publicity.

Plans are also being made for the annual chili supper to be held Saturday, March 12, at the Parish Hall.

Any local Democrats are invited to participate on any level.

For more information, call Douglas at 264-5299 or Van Patter at 731-4795.

Salvation Army's local service is year-round effort

The Salvation Army was established in Archuleta County in 2001. Funds are raised primarily by bell-ringing from Thanksgiving to Christmas, with some private mail donations.

These funds are disbursed, only in Archuleta County, to people who need assistance with medical, food, auto, rent, insurance, utilities and overnight lodging.

All money raised is spent to help people - except for 0.5 percent which is spent for operating expenses. For example, for $6,000 raised, $30 is spent for operating costs and $5,970 is given to people in need.

The Salvation Army disburses money throughout the year, contrary to some people's belief that the money raised during Thanksgiving and Christmas is spent only during this time.

Finally, volunteer bell-ringers are always needed.

This is an excellent opportunity to spend an hour or two to share in the joy of helping others who are down on their luck. If you are interested, call Jim Haliday at 731-9082.

If anyone wishes to make a mail-in donation, they can send it to Salvation Army, PO Box 1567, Pagosa Springs, CO 81147-1567.

No Column this week

Flyfishing can become a way of life

By Chuck McGuire

SUN Columnist

It's February now, and lately, my thoughts have increasingly turned to flyfishing.

Of course, winter is only about half over, and more cold and snow are sure to come, but subtle climatic changes of late suggest the slightest weakening in winter's grip on the surrounding landscape. For example, sunny days are notably brighter than those of just last month, and daylight lingers a bit longer every evening. The lower south- and west-facing slopes, if at all, are only thinly veiled in snow, and the thick layers of ice, which have virtually sealed area rivers and streams for months, are now slowly receding. The signs, though tenuous they may be, are unmistakable, and in a few short weeks, a variety of waters will be fishable.

Indeed, some rivers almost unfailingly accommodate flyfishers, even through all but the worst of winter's fury. Tailwater rivers, or those flowing from dams, like the San Juan below Navajo Lake in New Mexico, the Gunnison Gorge near Hotchkiss, and the Frying Pan near Basalt, are renowned year-round trout fisheries, and I have managed to pull several nice fish from their icy waters over the years. Their regulated flows are predictably consistent, water temperatures fluctuate but a few degrees season to season, and conditions overall, afford exceptional habitat allowing for the production, survival, and reproduction of large healthy trout.

But as idyllic as the tailwaters seem, they are too popular with today's wide-ranging angling public. As the human populations of mountain-state cities continually swell, even the more distant impoundments draw large crowds nearly every month of the year. With viable space typically at a premium, fierce competition quickly develops, tempers ultimately flare, and disturbing conflicts inevitably arise. At once, one's "angling" experience can be reduced to something more akin to combat than a satisfying day outdoors.

As with any lifelong ambition, flyfishing becomes a way of life for those who pursue it seriously. Its almost overwhelming complexity commonly effects a course of evolution through which most aficionados pass, before settling on a particular interest or specific style that best suits them personally.

As for me, I first took up flyfishing shortly after moving to Colorado, and immediately devoted every possible moment to perfecting technique. I lived on the Eagle River then, and while working nights, fished from dawn 'til dusk nearly every day. At first, I just wanted to catch a trout on a fly. Then, I hoped to catch every one in the river, and for awhile, I would only take fish on flies I tied. At some point, I worked to refine my tailwater skills, in order that I might land the largest river fish available. But in time, I realized that size and number were really unimportant, and that bringing wild trout up to dry flies was all that mattered. Today, however, while I still prefer fooling fish with classic dry-fly patterns, I am willing to employ a wet fly or nymph from time to time, provided I do so, while incorporating them with the use of a traditional bamboo fly rod and raised-pillar reel.

I don't mean to sound pretentious in view of those preferring other methods or equipment, nor am I suggesting I've figured anything out that others probably haven't. But as I look back over 25 years of innumerable and glorious, if not incredibly diverse, flyfishing experiences, I find the ongoing progression of angling as it relates to my own way of life at least mildly amusing.

And, without a doubt, it's not over yet.

For instance, in recent years I've begun wondering if catching a fish is really that important at all. It seems that on virtually every occasion I am more content with basking in the entire experience, and less apt to simply immerse myself in the course of fishing, as in days past. The chosen venue for a particular foray, usually with inherent solitude and magnificent scenery, lavish vegetation, and abundant wildlife, is most pivotal, while the fishing has become more an excuse to go, rather than the only reason for going. I can say this with some confidence, because on outings that might span eight full hours, I may actually fish only two or three, and the number or size of fish caught invariably holds little relevance to the level of fulfillment achieved.

Of course, I can't deny the feeling of instant gratification that still comes from landing a nice fish now and again, but over time, I have managed to solve most of the mysteries involving procedure. For me, the real challenge remains in actually fooling a fish and invoking a strike, particularly when little or no natural insect activity is apparent, and few outward signs suggest the presence of feeding trout.

Once accomplished though, and a fish is on, any elation quickly turns to concern for its well-being, and an immediate and gentle release becomes paramount. Conventional wisdom suggests that if a fish is freed in good physical condition, there has been no harm, and therefore, no foul. But some are now questioning the morality of catching a fish at all, if it's only to be let go "unharmed." With this in mind, I now grapple with another concept that, once again, may revolutionize my fishing.

In light of modern "political correctness" and mounting pressure from various special interest groups, like anti-hunters and animal rights advocates, some seasoned anglers have turned to fishing with hookless flies. Granted, the idea is somewhat appealing, and would allow the perpetuation of "challenging" fish, without subjecting them to potential injury, physical or otherwise. In fact, I've fished with barbless flies for decades, and this may just be the next step in the progression.

Fortunately for me, there is ample time for the consideration of such potentially life-altering choices, because, as I've said, the availability of a variety of fishable waters is still a few weeks away. Besides, my best buddy, longtime fishing companion, and renowned fly-tyer, Bruce Keep, is apparently still working to create a series of hookless dry flies that will actually float upright. Come to think of it, I haven't heard from him on the issue, since my original phone request months ago.

CR 500's a mess

Dear Editor:

County Road 500 is a total mess. Had to make a trip to Arboles on Jan. 30 and found that the road was all but impassable just past mile marker 31. Again on Feb. 4 I needed to go that way. The road past mile marker 31 was the same, minus the running water, but the mud would make it almost impossible for a small car to pass.

My question to Road and Bridge and the commissioners is why on the way there I passed a front loader cleaning ditches just below Pagosa Junction that did not need it? The machine never made it to the place where it was needed and spent the weekend parked at the place that didn't need it.

A commissioner returned my call and said it would be several days before they could take care of the problem, that they needed owners' permission. Well, they do not need permission to clear the road so motorists can get by without taking their lives in the roads hands. Duh. I made a point of coming back the same way to see if anything had been done. Nothing had been, and at the time of this writing, nothing has been done yet to clear the road.

County Road 500 is in the worst condition I have seen in 30 years, and I have lived down here that long. It needs help and soon. Don't just come down and pretend to fix it. Is this not a road that you all are talking about making a scenic byway?

Don't think a tourist could make the drive without having a cardiac arrest. The people who have to use it everyday are truly brave or do not have a choice.

Another one that needs help is CR 700 which is marginal to say the least. Right now CR 700 is the only way out without beating your vehicle and you to pieces. But it won't be long before it is a total mess.

What happened to the old way when you left equipment in an area, instead of driving it there. By the time you get the equipment here it is time to go back.

All this money that is put into a study by a group that does not live in the area is a total waste. This seems to be the county's way now. Get real, get someone who knows how to do things right the first time.

All of us who live on CR 500 and 700 pay taxes and are entitled to all the benefits the rest of the county enjoys. Get it together and put these roads back to where they can be used and not destroy your vehicle and beat the life out of you.

Thirty-plus years ago the roads were one lane and they are one lane now; you call it progress, to me it is regress. Get it together Archuleta County you are not impressing anyone that has to drive these roads.

Very concerned,

LuAnn Baker

Judge responds

Dear Editor:

This is response to Thelma and Robert Smith's letter of last week voicing their displeasure with me that the trial set for Jan. 24 did not take place. I've called Mrs. Smith and explained that I was not the judge presiding in the case, but since I've had many trials cancelled at the last minute, I apologized and tried to explain the reasons this happens. I also extend that apology to the rest of the persons who were called that week and the following week and had no trial take place.

The reasons this happens and will continue to happen despite our best efforts are numerous. Sometime defendants change their minds and decide to plead guilty or accept a plea bargain at the last minute and the court must decide between wasting citizens' time by vacating the trial versus wasting more time by holding an unnecessary trial.

Sometimes essential witnesses disobey subpoenas and fail to appear - I've even had one show up drunk (who was sent to jail). Sometimes new evidence pops up which was supposed to have been given to the defense but was not. Many times these issues don't show themselves until the morning of trial because ours is a part-time court and the attorneys are often from out of town.

But, whatever the reason, I can assure the Smiths that it is not the result of indifference to or disregard for citizens' time. I am acutely aware of the inconvenience, but unfortunately, have to make decisions which I understand will be unpopular in order to uphold due process considerations. But, again, I apologize for it happening and we will continue to try to do better.

Judge Jim Denvir

Dissappointed

Dear Editor:

Dear U.S. Senator Salazar:

I was very disappointed to hear that you voted in favor of Secretary Gonzales. Understanding that he is a fellow American/Hispanic, this was still not a good decision. You just voted in favor of a government beyond the law, beyond accountability. We did not send you to the U.S. Senate, with our votes and our dollars, to have you put ethnicity before Constitutional Civil Rights for Americans and other Humans. Please consider carefully all future votes, and know that we are watching all of our elected officials very carefully. Being a Democrat does not guarantee you the support of citizens who are learning to distrust our once beloved government.

Cristy Holden

Bush's irony

Dear Editor:

I listened to what President Bush had to say upon his inauguration and his State of the Union address, and the main theme was that of freedom.

It seems ironic to me that what he and the current administration are creating is actually quite the opposite - a drastic and continuing loss of freedom in several places.

Throughout the globe, citizens are being detained, often secretly and without due process and basic rights, right to a speedy trial and to a lawyer. Basic civil liberties and human rights are being curtailed in direct contravention of our constitution and the code of the Geneva Convention.

Other constitutional rights are being severely constrained: the right to peacefully assemble - look at the huge clamp down on protestors during the Republican convention and other politically sensitive events; and the right of free speech - speak out and you may find yourself out of a job.

Freedom of the press is being curtailed as more and more of the media are corporately owned and forced to toe the party line. The media is becoming more and more a propaganda machine. Freedom of information is rapidly being restricted in the name of national security or other glib catch phrases.

It behooves us to keep ourselves informed and protest in whatever way we can against this confront to democracy and liberty. These deficits will burden generations to come unless we stand up and speak out at this crucial time in the history of our nation.

Sincerely,

Udgar Parsons

Disbelief

I read with disbelief, the letter from Chris Chavez in last week's SUN. As a longtime resident of CR 500 I had to put up with daily semi truckloads of gravel from the Chavez gravel pit driving past my house from 6 a.m. every day for months this past summer and fall. You bet the road is in terrible shape. We on the road had to put up with the noise pollution, the added dust - which doesn't help my asthma or anyone else's breathing problems - plus I had to put up with a veritable freeway going past my house daily from sunup to sundown. I didn't move 900 miles to live with a lakefront view, which by the way isn't there anymore, and put up with this kind of aggravation.

I didn't see anyone even try to water the road to help with the dust problem, let alone was I ever contacted about permits pertaining to the operation of this gravel pit, so if Mr. Chavez has anything to say it ought to be in the form of an apology to the residents who put up with his moneymaking operation last summer. Or maybe he ought to be made to pay part of what it costs to maintain the road. After all, he was the one profiting from all of our aggravation and loss of peace and quiet and the present shape that the road is in now.

Mike Thompson

Kate's Calendar

By Kate Terry

SUN Columnist

Today to March 31

A free lunch will be served Thursdays at the Parish Hall, 451 Lewis St., 11:30 a.m.-2 p.m. Come one and all. Bring only your appetite. Meal is sponsored by Loaves and Fishes.

Today

Mountain View Homemakers meet at First Baptist Church on U.S. 160. This is a location change. The host is Joann Guckert. The program will be "Scrapbooking 101," how to save all your treasured memories, by club historian Shirley Snider, 264-6402. She will cover scrapbooking products, where to purchase them and hints on use. The co-hostess is Robbye Reedy. Parking is limited, so carpooling is encouraged.

Today

The Newcomer Club will meet at the 19th Hole Restaurant, 6 p.m. Cost is $7 per person. Reservations are not necessary. All newcomers are most welcome. For more information, call Lyn DeLange, 731-2398.

Today

Wolf Creek Trailblazers Snowmobile Club monthly meeting, 6:30 p.m. in the Fellowship Hall of Community United Methodist Church on Lewis Street. Local club rides and the overnight trip to Grand Mesa will be discussed. New members are welcome. For more information, call Charlie Rogers, 264-4471.

Feb. 11

Friday Fish Frys begin at the Parish Hall on Lewis Street. Fish, coleslaw, hush puppies, homemade french fries, dessert and a drink will be served by the Knights of Columbus 5-7 p.m. every Friday during Lent (through March 18). Tickets for an all-you-can-eat dinner are $10. Regular adult tickets $8. Children under 12 are $4.

Feb. 12

Pagosa Piecemakers Quilt Guild meets at 10 a.m. at St. Patrick's Episcopal Church in the education building. All members are invited to take part in a new group bee concept president Linda Bennett is organizing for the new year. We hope to see you there.

Feb. 14

Sweetheart Donation Day for Colorado Wild. Be a sweetheart, donate to Colorado Wild to help efforts to stop the Village at Wolf Creek. Donations can be sent to Colorado Wild, P.O. Box 2434, Durango, CO 81302.

Feb. 15, 22

Pagosa Springs Community Choir rehearsals for the spring concert Tuesdays, 7-9 p.m., at Community United Methodist Church, 434 Lewis St. Performances are set for May 6 at 7 p.m. and Mother's Day, May 8, at 4 p.m. in the Pagosa Springs High School auditorium. Contact Pam Spitler for information at 264-1952. Concerts are free.

Feb. 16

The Mountain High Gardeners Club will meet 10 a.m.-noon at the Archuleta County Fairgrounds Extension office. The guest speaker will be Jen Libra from Spring Mountain Nursery demonstrating how to start seeds at home this spring so that healthy plants will be ready for the garden by summer. Everyone is welcome. Call Barb Palmer, 731-1173, for more information.

Feb. 17

Any brass, woodwind or percussion players interested in forming a Community Band are invited to attend a kick-off meeting at 7 p.m. at the Community United Methodist Church, 434 Lewis Street. For more information, contact Tim Bristow, 731-1280.

Feb. 27

A communitywide reception to express appreciation for Lenore Bright's years of dedication to the Sisson Library, 2-4 p.m. in the Commons Area of Pagosa Springs High School.

March 4

World Day of Prayer celebration at Community United Methodist Church, 434 Lewis St., 11:30 a.m. A potluck salad lunch will follow the service. The theme this year is "Let Our Light Shine," and the program was developed by Christian women of Poland. The worldwide celebration is aimed at uniting people of faith to bring "informed prayer and prayerful action" to their communities.

March 4-13

The Durango Film Festival, a 10-day juried event in downtown Durango, will host independent feature films, documentaries, shorts, animation, regional and children's programs from filmmakers all over the world. The event will also include filmmaker panels, parties, receptions and audience awards given to the best films in each category. All films will be showcased in various venues in the downtown Durango area. For additional information about show times, tickets and film descriptions, visit the Web site at www.durangofilmfestival.com, or call the festival office at 259-2291.

It's Winterfest Weekend when snow time's fun time

By Doug Trowbridge

Special to The PREVIEW

As the new year fades and February becomes firmly entrenched, some of us may become a little sick of the white stuff.

This weekend, however, the Chamber has planned a little adventure. So get out and learn to have some fun in the frigid fluff.

Winterfest is a great time to find that spirit of fun again!

A big part of Winterfest is the 35 hot air balloons that take to the awesomely azure Colorado skies on Saturday and Sunday mornings. Nothing compares to the sight of myriad colors floating along with the snow-capped peaks of the mighty Rocky Mountains in the background. Snap some pictures and enjoy the views or jump in and offer to help one of the pilots and you might just earn yourself a free balloon ride

On Saturday, you can enjoy a snow sculpture contest starting 10 a.m. in the Visitor Center parking lot. Watch some of the locals put their creative talents to use or sign up and join in. The entry fee for the snow sculpture contest is $20 in advance or $25 the day of the event and contestants have a shot at taking home a cash prize if their entry is judged the best individual or best team effort.

Viewers can take a quick break for lunch at one of Pagosa's many wonderful restaurants and then return around 3 p.m. for the judging. See which mountain of snow has been transformed into the winning presentation of beauty!

Also Saturday, sportsmen and women can take part in the second annual Pagosa Lakes Winter Perch Tournament on Lake Pagosa 9:30 a.m.-2:30 p.m. For an entry fee of just $5 ($7 if purchased on the day of the event), participants can vie for numerous cash prizes in the categories of most perch caught and largest perch caught. If you love the outdoors and enjoy ice fishing, this is a great way to have fun and maybe earn some money.

Saturday evening around dusk, you'll want to be out by the Pagosa Lakes Recreation Center to watch a spectacular balloon glow. If you've never seen one, a balloon glow takes place when hot air balloon pilots set their balloons up and send fountains of flame into their balloons while they sit on the ground. The resulting glow from the balloons is something that must be seen to be believed.

More balloons on Sunday morning and then you'll want to run out to the east side of town to the hill behind the Best Value Inn High Country Lodge for the Anything Goes Downhill Sled Race. If you would like to take part in the race, the entry fee is $15 preregistration or $25 on the day of the event. During the race, you are likely to view varying degrees of ingenuity and insanity hurtling down the hillside. In the past we have seen some great homemade sleds, one man who tried to ride an upside-down ironing board and some deranged plumbers who rode a fiberglass shower stall.

It's always fun for participants and spectators alike, so come out and enjoy. Cash and other prizes will be awarded for the fastest sled and the most creative. Don't worry about lunch, free food and drinks will be provided, courtesy of the Best Value Inn High Country Lodge.

Close out your Winterfest weekend by taking in the basketball antics of the Harlem Ambassadors. Sponsored by Troy Ross Construction and Buckskin Towing, this show features some rollicking roundball between the Ambassadors and the Pagosa Ringers.

Enjoy fun for the whole family that is guaranteed to leave you wanting more. The show takes place at the high school gym 5 p.m. Sunday. Tickets for the Harlem Ambassadors are $6 for students/seniors and $8 for adults in advance. Tickets at the door will be $8 for students/seniors and $10 for adults.

So break out of those winter doldrums, kick that cabin fever and plan on having a little fun this Winterfest weekend. For more information on events, call the Chamber of Commerce at 264-2360. We'll see you in the snow!

Singing Valentines to support Red Cross

You can surprise your sweetheart with a Mountain Harmony Singing Valentine at your door or your table at a restaurant, Feb. 11-14.

The proceeds will go to the local chapter of American Red Cross for local projects.

Make this Valentine's Day unique with a harmonized women's ensemble bringing treats and singing of love.

Suggested donation is $25.

For details and bookings call Robbye Reedy at 731-4873.

Feb. 17 talks set on forming community band

By Robert Nordmann

Special to The PREVIEW

Do you enjoy playing a musical instrument, but don't have a place to play? Was band one of your favorite activities in high school, but now your clarinet collects cobwebs in the closet, or your saxophone sits silently in the cellar?

If the thought of picking up your instrument and making music again sounds like fun, consider joining with other local brass, woodwind, and percussion players in forming a community band.

There are a number of talented Pagosans who truly enjoy sharing their musical abilities with the community.

Those of you who have attended the local Oktoberfest at the Community Center the last few years have heard some of them perform. Those players, along with several others, are trying to form a larger ensemble to perform a variety of music for the public on a more regular basis.

Although the details have yet to be worked out, performance possibilities might include summer concerts in the park, playing in the Fourth of July parade, or indoor spring or fall concerts.

If you are at all interested, please come to a kickoff meeting 7 p.m. Feb. 17, at Community United Methodist Church, 434 Lewis St.

The purpose of the meeting is to find out who wants to play and to work out the some of details for forming the organization such as practice schedules, performance opportunities, direction, music, etc. If you have any questions about joining the group, or want to join but can't make the meeting, please contact Tim Bristow at 731-1280 (e-mail morgtow@ frontier. net).

Annual Cub Scout Blue and Gold Banquet Friday

By Lynn Shirk

Special to The PREVIEW

The annual Blue and Gold Banquet for Cub Scout Troop 807 will be 5:30-7 p.m. Friday in the Extension building at the county fairgrounds, with an Italian cuisine pot luck menu.

As always, the Feller's Cake Bake will be a highlight of the evening. This is a fun cake raffle where only the scouts and their dads are allowed to create a confectionery masterpiece. The cakes are auctioned to the highest bidder, which can sometimes get intense. Some in the past have gone for as much as $200.

This a great fund-raiser for the scouts and helps defer the costs of day camp, supplies and badges throughout the year.

What will make the evening even more special is that Boy Scouts of America is celebrating its 75th anniversary.

The troop is inviting and will acknowledge all Eagles Scouts, young or old to the event, and give them special recognition for a job well done.

For more information, contact Lisa Scott, Cubmaster, at 264-2730 or Carrie Toth at 264-9042.

Also coming up is the annual Pinewood Derby scheduled Feb. 26 at the Extension building. Youngsters create a race car from a block of wood and race for a chance to compete in regional competition March 12.

Veteran area musicians form Hot Biscuits trio

By Erin Quirk

Special to The Preview

In a song she wrote once about the music industry, folk/rock musician Ani DiFranco said, "Maybe I should put a bucket over my head and a marshmallow in each ear, and stumble around for another hum drum year waiting for another hum drum hit song to appear."

DiFranco, a frequent critic of superficiality of any kind, was railing against a repetitive, oversold, superhyped and shallow pop music world. But if DiFranco happened into Pagosa Springs, a local trio called the Hot Biscuits might cause her to pull those marshmallows out.

The Hot Biscuits are a new trio of veteran, hard working Four Corners musicians. Their recent shows at The Office Lounge have established that they are musicians' musicians who use their considerable talent to fashion something exceptional in a world that sometimes isn't.

The Hot Biscuits are Dan Appenzeller, best known locally for founding, with his wife Crista Munro, the Four Corners Folk Festival. Appenzeller, who composes the band's all-original music and fronts it on vocals and guitar, is also officially in remission from a 15-month battle with cancer.

Suzanna Ninichuck is a New Mexico bass player, who Appenzeller said, "gets" the music and "keeps it all in line." Ninichuck plays the bass like nobody ever told her that men usually handle that instrument.

The third Hot Biscuit is a long-time Pagosa favorite, tenor and soprano saxophone player, Bob Hemenger. Many locals may recall seeing him play with Dog at Large, Rio Jazz at JJ's Upstream and recently with the Dutton Ditch Blues Band.

What the Hot Biscuits play exactly isn't easy to describe. In fact, that question stumps the band for a minute.

"It's very tight and concise and complex," Appenzeller said taking a stab at it. "It's beautiful and sexy."

The Hot Biscuits vaguely resemble the Dave Matthews Band in that the sax and bass rift off in unusual directions but are obviously orchestrated that way. The trio's tight, sprightly transitions are the mark of players who not only know what they are doing but are driven to do it well together.

In another way the Hot Biscuits are a little like Bela Fleck and the Flecktones, not in style or sound, but in that the band is climbing into one man's head, collaborating on what they find there and performing it in a way that no one else is. That freshness is exciting to all three members.

"It's like having a palette of paint and all the colors are available," Ninichuck said.

Hemenger added that the music Appenzeller arranges lends itself to a completely unique style of play. He said Appenzeller stacks unusual chords and weaves in depressions and inversions where they're not expected.

"It's creative, dynamic, fluid and soulful," Hemenger said.

When trying to describe what he believes to be this distinctive approach to music, Appenzeller tells of a teacher who once told him "all the music has been written."

He snorts with indignation at the idea because he said, without a trace of conceit, the music literally pours out of him as a composer. He scores it for himself and Ninichuck and then leaves gaps for Hemenger.

"We've got three or four hours of material and it seems to never stop," he said.

Appenzeller said a lot of his mentors were people nobody's ever heard of, like a Latin percussionist from Holland that he met in Cuba and another Brazilian percussionist. The men, he said, taught him everything about rhythm.

"I learned how to be different," Appenzeller said.

But being different isn't easy, because people want to hear what they know, which goes a long way in explaining pop music. But the trio believes that they will find their niche and help cultivate a greater appreciation for original, live music in this region. That in fact, Appenzeller said, was the very reason for the Four Corners Folk Festival. Many of the bands that perform there are not easily categorized either.

"Hopefully, the people that want to hear live, original music will find us or we'll find them," Hemenger said.

In pursuit of those fans, The Hot Biscuits plan to get busy playing festivals, but in the meantime they will appear at The Office Friday, Feb. 26. In March, the band will open for Big Bad Voodoo Daddy on the 24th and 25th at the Fort Lewis Community Concert Hall.

Hemenger and Ninichuck agree that Appenzeller is even more prolific as a writer since cancer nearly took his life last year.

"We have added a dimension of beauty that wasn't there before," Ninichuck said.

Appenzeller, who one year ago couldn't lift his head off a pillow, is stoic when talking about the experience. He added, "You're whole interpretation of life is different when it's about to be ripped away from you."

The three players believe deeply in what they are doing. Ninichuck said she believed even during Appenzeller's recovery when rehearsals could last only 30 minutes. Appenzeller recalls those rehearsals leaving him unable to climb the stairs when he got home.

But the cancer is now in remission, Appenzeller's hair has grown back curly and Ninichuck is "psyched" even during her 90-minute commute to rehearsals.

"I firmly believe we're going," she said. Hemenger agreed adding, "I haven't been this excited about a project in a long time."

To get more information on the Hot Biscuits e-mail Appenzeller at dan@folkwest.com.

Early Bird folk fest tickets are available

Tickets for the 10th Annual Four Corners Folk Festival are on sale at Early Bird prices through March 31.

Thrifty festival fans can save up to $10 on a multiple-day pass to the music festival scheduled for Sept. 2-4 on Reservoir Hill. Children 12 and under are free.

The musical lineup is nearly complete and includes many returning favorites like The Bills, Eddie From Ohio, Darrell Scott, Ruthie Foster, Darol Anger, Drew Emmitt, Marc Atkinson and the Pagosa Hot Strings.

There is plenty of fresh talent making their debut on the Four Corners stage this year including Crooked Still, Old School Freight Train, Broke Mountain Bluegrass and the Mollie O'Brien Band (although Mollie appeared in the past with brother Tim O'Brien and the O'Boys).

The three-day event features camping, free children's activities, free workshops with admission, vendor expo and food court. The late night stage will happen this year on Friday and Saturday nights as four bands unplug for intimate sets following the end of main stage performances.

Festivities will get underway Thursday, Sept. 1 with the traditional camp rush as 50-plus vehicles line up awaiting the opening of the gate at 11 a.m. The music starts noon Friday, Sept. 2.

Over the past nine years, the Four Corners Folk Festival has attracted a dedicated following of people from all over the country who come to experience great music the beautiful setting of Reservoir Hill.

Early Bird festival tickets are available downtown at Moonlight Books. For additional information or to purchase tickets outside the area call toll-free (877) 472-4672 or visit the festival Web site at www.folkwest.com.

Daffodil Days provide funds for cancer fight

The Archuleta County unit of the American Cancer Society will bring a touch of Spring the second week in March during the annual Daffodil Days celebration.

You can donate to the fight against cancer by purchasing a bouquet of these beautiful flowers.

The daffodil is one of the first and brightest flowers of spring, thus signaling hope and renewed life. They were chosen as the symbol of this event because the represent nature's rebirth and the hope for a cancer-free future.

Fresh daffodils shipped from the flower fields of the Pacific Northwest will be available beginning March 14.

Pre-order your bouquets by calling Suzan Gray at 264-6255, Lili Pearson at 731-5159 or by stopping by the Chamber of Commerce. Flowers are available in bunches of 10 and the suggested donation is $9.

Peak of the Daffodil Days celebration is when bright bouquets are delivered to businesses, churches, schools and homes. This is a perfect way to recognize special people and a terrific way to celebrate life and help point the way to a healthier future.

Money raised during the event supports research, education and services for local cancer patients, survivors and their families. Your donations have helped the American Cancer Society become the world's largest source of private, nonprofit research funds. Research is a vital tool in the battle against the disease.

Join this year's Daffodil Days celebration and chase away the winter doldrums. Become part of the "flower power" movement in the fight against cancer by displaying this symbol of hope for cancer patients.

Unitarians will host Surat Schabd meditation

The Pagosah Unitarian Universalist Fellowship will hold a special meditation service, to be led Sunday by Christiane Karas. An active student of Surat Schabd Yoga, she has been practicing since 1972.

She explains that Surat means "attention" and Schabd means "the Word." This tradition teaches "in the beginning was the word and the word was God."

Surat Schabd is known to students of meditation as "the Yoga of Light and Sound." Christiane's teacher is Kirpal Singh, past president of the World Fellowship of Religions.

The service will begin 10:30 a.m. in the Unitarian Universalist Fellowship Hall in Pagosa Lakes. The address is: Unit 15, Greenbriar Plaza. Turn east on Greenbriar Drive off of North Pagosa by the fire station, then left into the parking lot and look for the big sign.

All are invited to experience this heartfelt approach to meditation.

First aid, CPR classes Saturday at Ed Center

Have you ever wondered what you would do in an emergency?

It is essential to know what to do when injuries and sudden illnesses occur.

The Archuleta County Education Center is offering first aid and CPR training Saturday.

This eight-hour course will provide the knowledge and training in case of an emergency.

Tuition is $45 for both sessions and includes a three-year first aid certification card, two-year CPR certification card and a textbook.

If attending a class on the weekend is difficult, there are also classes offered during the week. The center will offer classes Wednesday and Thursday, March 2 and 3. Classes are four hours each and begin at 5:30 p.m.

If you would like to register or for more information call 264-2835 or stop by the office at 4th and Lewis streets.

Growing Up Smart class helps youth make life choices

By Sky Gabel

Special to The PREVIEW

Growing Up Smart, a program of Planned Parenthood of the Rocky Mountains, proudly announces classes for fifth- and sixth-grade students every Monday afternoon from Valentine's Day until May 16.

The program enables young people to make healthy life choices to support their passage into positive adulthood. The program assists youth in developing healthy interpersonal relationships which is fundamental to preventing high-risk behaviors.

Communication with caregivers, abstinence and puberty facts are emphasized. Professional sexuality health educator, Joelle Riddle will lead the interactive, fun, free, age-appropriate classes in south conference room in the community center.

Register now by calling Joelle at 385-4760, or call Sky Gabel at 731-2202.

Good sexuality education means loving parents discover a child's needs for information and find ways to fill these needs. Human development is a lifelong process and just as it is important to enhance a child's physical, emotional, and cognitive growth, so it is important to lay foundations for a child's sexual growth. Adults have a responsibility to help young people understand and accept their evolving sexuality.

If you wonder what sexuality health has to do with 10- and 11-year-old kids, consider last week's Focus article about sexual assault.

The best way for parents to protect our children from harm is to have open, ongoing communication with them.

Solid sexuality education from parents delays sexual activity as studies show that informed teenagers are less likely to have sex while uninformed teens are at greater risk of early sexual activity, sexually transmitted diseases, pregnancy, sexual exploitation, and abuse. (American Social Health Association)

The strongest approach is to teach values at home and offer sexuality education with a trained expert and peers so children can practice decision-making, talk in small groups about good friendships, identify supportive adults, and actively learn about the changes in themselves and their friends.

Between the ages of 9 and 12 years, children gain more independence than ever before, they desire privacy and separation from the family as part of their push for independence but they still need parents' guidance. Children between ages 9 and 12 will usually want to be seen as "normal" while also needing to be unique.

They will experience mood swings, partially as a result of changing hormones in their bodies. They may be self-conscious of bodily changes and girls especially may feel insecure as their bodies develop.

This highly acclaimed class is coming to Pagosa Springs to help your preteen understand themself a little better, express their individuality in a positive way, and enjoy this time of life with supportive friends and caregivers.

The class is free, snacks are provided, and there is no class on most school holidays.

Photo contest winners by show category

Winners in the annual photo contest now on display at Moonlight Books, sponsored by Pagosa Springs Arts Council, were, by category:

Domestic Animals - Deb Knoblauch, first; Joanie McAteer, second; Jerry Dermody, third; and Deb Knoblauch, honorable mention.

Architecture - Mike Pierce, first; Maria Kolpin, second; Barbara Conkey, third; and Enza Bomkamp, honorable mention.

Autumn Scenic - Barbara Rosner, first; Lili Pearson, second; Beth Moore, third; and Mark Roper, honorable mention.

General Landscape - KD Bellar, first; A.C. Olson, second; Janet Nordmann, third; and Margaret Webb, honorable mention.

Patterns and Textures - Bill Woggon, first; Mark Roper, second; Michael Ybanez, third; and Becky Van Blaricon, honorable mention.

Sports - Kim Johnson.

Flora - Kahle Charles, first; Helen L. Richardson, second; and Freda Whisman, third.

People - KD Bellar, first; Don R. Long, second; Mike Heraty, third; and Tim Schreyer, honorable mention.

Up-Close - Ann Castor, first; Scott Allen, second; Linda Roper, third; and Don Dodson, honorable mention.

Winter Scenic - Darlene Wilkins, first, Melinda Schnarre, second; Maria Kolpin, third; and Ray Diffee, honorable mention.

Black and White - Lili Pearson, first; Joanne Irons, second; and A.C. Olson, third.

Open - Susie Long, first; Sharon Garrison, second; John L. Mathis, third; and Zakary Sulak and Judy L. Clay, honorable mentions.

Wild Fauna - John L. Mathis, first; Susie Long, second; and Robert Horstman, third.

Sunrise/Sunset - Melinda Schnarre, first; Joanie McAteer, second; and Julieandi Olds, third.

Special Techniques - David Hunter, first; Alex Coville, second; and Barbara Rosner, third.

4-H members selling tubs of cookie dough

By Pamela Bomkamp

Special to The PREVIEW

One of Archuleta County 4-H's most successful fund-raisers is underway. Local 4-H youth have started their annual cookie dough sale.

Every 4-H member participates in selling $10 and $11 tubs of cookie dough to everyone in their community and beyond. The overall 4-H goal this year is 2,000 tubs.

Members will be selling six different types of cookie dough: Chunky Chocolate Chip, Made with M&Ms, Peanut Butter, Oatmeal Raisin, Sugar and White Chocolate Macadamia.

The cookie dough comes in three pound tubs (makes about 96 half-ounce cookies each) that can be refrigerated or stored in the freezer. The cookie dough can even be eaten raw because it is made with pasteurized eggs instead of raw eggs. Supporters have until Feb. 28 to order as many tubs as they want.

The cookie dough will be delivered March 15 by 4-H youth. If anyone would like to order cookie dough but cannot find a 4-H member to order from, contact the Archuleta County Extension Office at 264-5931 to place an order.

All funds raised will be dispersed between the seven different 4-H clubs and the 4-H Council. They will use it to send 4-H members to educational programs such as YouthFest, Leadership Development Conference, Colorado 4-H State Conference, for an overnight trip to the State Fair, to pay for 4-H member re-enrollment fees for next year and other individual club projects.

Archuleta County 4-H has 160 youth enrolled in projects this year. Their ages range from 5 to 18.

For more information, contact the Extension office at 264-5931.

How parents react to first, second and more new children

By Kate Terry

SUN Columnist

Class reunion for all Pagosa Springs High School graduates will be Sunday, July 3, 2005. Some individual classes will hold additional reunion events. Plans for all activities are in the making. Please watch The SUN for more details in the coming months.

Fun on the Run

The birth order of children Š

Your clothes

First baby: You begin wearing maternity clothes as soon as your OB/GYN confirms your pregnancy.

Second baby: You wear your regular clothes for as long as possible.

Third baby: Your maternity clothes are your regular clothes.

Preparing for birth

First baby: You practice your breathing religiously.

Second baby: You don't bother because you remember that last time, breathing didn't do a thing.

Third baby: You ask for an epidural in your eighth month.

The layette

First baby: You pre-wash newborn's clothes, color-coordinate them, and fold them neatly in the baby's little bureau.

Second baby: You check to make sure the clothes are clean and discard only the ones with the darkest stains.

Third baby: Boys can wear pink, can't they?

Worries

First baby: At the first sign of distress - a whimper, a frown - you pick up the baby.

Second baby: You pick the baby up when her wails threaten to wake your firstborn.

Third baby: You teach your 3-year-old how to rewind the mechanical swing.

Pacifier

First baby: If the pacifier falls on the floor, you put it away until you can go home, wash and boil it.

Second baby: When the pacifier falls on the floor, you squirt it off with some juice from the baby's bottle.

Third baby: You wipe it off on your shirt and pop it back in.

Diapering

First baby: You change your baby's diapers every hour, whether they need it or not.

Second baby: You change their diaper every two or three hours, if needed.

Third baby: You try to change their diaper before others start to complain about the smell or you see it sagging to their knees.

Activities

First baby: You take your infant to Baby Gymnastics, Baby Swing and Baby Story Hour.

Second baby: You take your infant to Baby Gymnastics.

Third baby: You take your infant to the supermarket and the dry cleaner.

Going out

First baby: The first time you leave your baby with a sitter, you call home five times.

Second baby: Just before you walk out the door, you remember to leave a number where you can be reached.

Third baby: You leave instructions for the sitter to call only if she sees blood.

At home

First baby: You spend a good bit of every day just gazing at the baby.

Second baby: You spend a bit of every day watching to be sure your older child isn't squeezing, poking or hitting the baby.

Third baby: You spend a little bit of every day hiding from the children.

Swallowing coins

First child: When first child swallows a coin, you rush the child to the hospital and demand X-rays.

Second child: When second child swallows a coin, you carefully watch for the coin to pass.

Third child: When third child swallows a coin, you deduct it from his allowance.

No Column this week

Older Americans national photo contest opens

By Laura Bedard

SUN Columnist

Bodil was here Feb. 4 to talk about "Spiritual Death and Dying." She had a good crowd who were interested in the subject. Thank you Bodil, for your presentation.

The U.S. Administration on Aging (AoA) is pleased to announce the 2005 Older Americans Month National Photography Contest. The purpose of this contest is to enhance the image of older Americans to all generations through pictures. The photographs are to reflect the photographer's interpretation of the 2005 Older American's Month theme: "Celebrate Long-term Living."

AoA is partnering with the National Institute of Senior Centers (NISC), a program of the National Council on Aging. NISC represents the senior center field, which serves several million older Americans each year through community-based, senior centers nationwide.

This contest is open to nonprofessional photographers, age 60 and older representing a senior center. Intergenerational photos are allowed and encouraged. Only senior center nonprofessionals can submit entries and only one entry per senior center will be allowed.

Birthday meals

Seniors Inc. has graciously volunteered to cover birthday meals, so that whenever seniors come in on the last Friday of the month to celebrate their birthday for that month, they only have to pay $1 for their meal. If you are celebrating your birthday next month, be sure to come in the last Friday of the month to celebrate.

Do you have some free time to donate to our home bound seniors? We need someone to fill our Tuesday out of town route to deliver a meal to our seniors who can't get out. Spend an hour or so a week to brighten up a senior's life! Come in to the Den today and pick up your application.

Do you want to play with little ones at the Community Center on Wednesday? "Pagosa Brats" are playing in the gym Wednesdays 10 a.m.-noon and could use some grandparents to hang out with them. Just sit and just enjoy their antics if you like, or interact - but feel free to come in and say hi on Wednesday mornings.

Tax prep program

The AARP sponsored Tax-Aide program is returning again this year. This service is offered via IRS/AARP trained and certified volunteers who reside in Pagosa. Most of the counselors are returning this year. The program is free and confidential and is provided for low and moderate income people. There is no age restriction; but preference is given to seniors who request it.

The service includes tax form preparation or review for federal, Colorado, and sometimes New Mexico returns. E-filing is available. If someone has prepared their returns but has a question they may come in for assistance.

The application for the Colorado Property Tax, Rent, Heat Rebate Program will also be prepared when appropriate. Colorado residents for all of 2004 (brief absences OK), who are over 65 or a qualifying widow(er) over 58, with income less than $11,000 single or $14,700 married, and who pay property taxes or rent and heat are usually eligible. If the 2003 application has not been filed we can assist with this year, too. A disabled person for all of 2004 may be eligible; regardless of age. If you are unaware of this program but think you might qualify please come in to ask us about it.

People who only plan the Colorado Property Tax Rent Heat Rebate application should come in early, as there are four payments rather than one this year. Also, people who do not have statements from brokerage companies (1099B) but who have all their other statements should come in early as well.

National Heart Month

About 1.25 million people in the U.S. suffer heart attacks every year, and about half of these occur in persons who are already known to have Coronary Heart Disease (CHD). For men and women with CHD, the risk of a heart attack is five times higher than for people of the same age and sex who do not have CHD. CHD is a type of heart disease caused by narrowing of the coronary arteries that feed the heart. When the coronary arteries become narrowed or clogged by fat and cholesterol deposits, not enough blood can get to the heart. Dietary and lifestyle changes can decrease your risk of developing CHD. For example, by lowering your cholesterol, you can reduce your risk of having a heart attack.

On Friday, Bodil Holstein will be back again to talk about reflexology, which is a form of massage to your feet. Reflexology is a form of acupuncture (without penetrating the skin) performed on the soles of your feet, where almost all illnesses can be helped. In Scandinavia this is a three-year education on an RN level. Come visit Bodil in the lounge at 1 p.m. and hear her talk about this fascinating subject!

Our senior board will also meet that day at 1 p.m. in the dining room.

We will be celebrating Valentine's Day Feb. 14. Show someone you care through a Valentine card exchange; we're expecting about 55 people that day. Even if you don't want to bring cards, we will be having a drawing for some small gifts, so be sure to come in wearing red!

On Feb. 15, Penny will be back to give massages and healing touch to our seniors. She will be here 11 a.m.-1:30, so be sure to come in a get a free massage.

We will also send folks to Sky Ute Casino 1 p.m. Feb. 15. You can still sign up in the lounge to get on that bus, and they'll get you back to Pagosa around 5:45 p.m.

The White Cane Society support group will meet 11 a.m. Feb. 16. This is a support group for the visually challenged, so if you need information about visual aids or need to talk, join this group in our lounge.

We will have our free movie 1 p.m. Feb. 18. This month we are showing, "The Terminal," a romantic comedy revolving around an Eastern European man whose plans of immigrating to N.Y. were hastened by a violent coup in his home country. Due to a technicality, when he arrives at Kennedy Airport, he is not allowed to leave the airport or return home. As weeks turn into months, he finds friendship and love in his temporary "home." Popcorn is only 25 cents.

Patty Tillerson will also be here Feb. 18 to check your blood pressure. This is a free service, so take advantage.

Events

Friday, Feb. 11 - Qi Gong, 10 a.m.; reflexology with Bodil Holstein, 1 p.m.; senior board meeting, 1 p.m.

Monday, Feb. 14 - Medicare counseling, 11 a.m.-1 p.m.; celebrate Valentine's Day, noon; Bridge for Fun, 1 p.m.

Tuesday, Feb. 15 - Yoga in Motion, 1 p.m.; basic computer class, 10 a.m.; massage and healing touch, 11 a.m.-1:30 p.m.; Sky Ute Casino trip, 1 p.m.

Wednesday, Feb. 16 - White Cane Society support group, 11 a.m.; canasta, 1 p.m.

Thursday, Feb, 17 - Arboles Meal Day; call by Wednesday morning for reservations.

Friday, Feb. 18 - Qi Gong, 10 a.m.; blood pressure check with Patty T., 11 a.m.; free movie day- "The Terminal," 1 p.m.

Menu

Friday, Feb. 11 - Scalloped potato/ham and cheese, seasoned spinach, whole wheat roll and citrus cup.

Monday, Feb. 14 - Chicken fried steak with cream gravy, garlic mashed potatoes, vegetable blend, strawberry/apple sauce.

Tuesday, Feb. 15 - Chicken Ala King, whipped potatoes, tossed salad, biscuit and apricots.

Wednesday, Feb. 16 - Spanish rice. lettuce/tomato and peaches.

Friday, Feb. 18 - Catfish fillet, mixed vegetables, parsleyed noodles. Waldorf salad and sherbet.

Gundling memoriams will aid in travel costs

Andy Fautheree

SUN Comumnist

As many of you may know fellow Archuleta County veteran David Gundling passed away recently after losing a battle with cancer.

Many of you may also remember that David was the former Archuleta County Veterans Service Officer. Some of his records and the assistance he gave to our local veterans are among the records I work with today.

I felt fortunate to be able to assist David in obtaining VA Health Care to help him with his cancer treatments. He made many trips to Albuquerque VA Medical Center and frequently used our Veteran Service Office vehicles for reliable transportation to those appointments.

Honored to assist

I was honored to be able to assist a fellow veteran and fellow Veterans Service Officer. We worked together right up to the end in seeing to his travel needs for those long trips to Albuquerque for treatment.

It was with great honor his wife, Carol, named this office to receive any memorial donations in his name. So far I have received monetary gifts in his name from G. Kenneth and Barbara Brashar, and Herman Riggs.

Contributions

On behalf of the Gundling family I would like to thank you for your contributions. I can assure you the money will be used carefully to help other Archuleta County veterans who are facing similar health problems.

Assistance needed

Many of our local veterans are at a disadvantage when traveling to their VA health care appointments because of the distance and their financial or health burdens. Albuquerque VAMC no longer provides overnight accommodations except in very special cases (cancer treatment being one of the exceptions). Also, they only allow a very small travel allowance to those veterans meeting minimal income levels who must travel the 565 miles for their appointments. No travel allowance is paid for trips to Durango, Farmington or other VAHC facilities.

The money I receive in David Gundling's memory will be used to assist our local veterans faced with these travel needs.

Share-A-Ride

Don't forget to call or stop by my office with your VA health care appointments for the "Share-A-Ride (SAR) program. Help a fellow veteran who may be going in the same direction to the same VA facility. 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 at 400 S. Camino Del Rio, Suite G, Durango, CO 81301. Phone number is 247-2214. Albuquerque VAMC phone number is (800)465-8262.

Further information

For information on these and other veterans' benefits please call or stop by the Veterans Service office on the lower floor of the county courthouse. The office number is 264-8375, fax 264-8376, e-mail afautheree@ archuletacounty.org. The office is open 8 a.m.-4 p.m. Monday through Thursday, Friday by appointment. Bring your DD Form 214 (discharge) for registration with the county, application for VA programs, and for filing in the VSO office.

Lemony Snicket books bridge the age gaps

By Barb Draper

PREVIEW Columnist

Who or what is Lemony Snicket?

Oftentimes there are materials in our library that bridge the gap between children, teens and adults. Some materials are entertaining, some are informative, and some are both. Two such items are worth mentioning this week.

The first is a series of books by Lemony Snicket. He has nothing to do with lemonade or Snickers bars, and very little to do with snickering. Rather, he writes about misfortune and misadventure, one incident after another, that befalls a recently orphaned trio of delightful, bright, inquisitive children. These stories can perhaps be compared to fairy tales many of us grew up with - "Cinderella," "Hansel and Gretel" or "The Big Bad Wolf" - the main difference being the endings. Snicket tells readers at the beginning that, if they wish to read a nice story with a happy ending, to "stop right here."

Snicket includes incredible vocabulary lessons in a clever way, as well as subtle lessons in issues of life, amazing insights into the insights children possess, and the cruelties sometimes imposed on children by greedy, less than honorable adults. There are lessons here to be taken to heart by readers young and old. We have the series in book form as well as on audiocassettes. These can be found in the JF section of the library.

The second, on a more serious note, is located with our new materials. It is a book titled "Connecting With Your Kids." There is evidence that children of separation, divorce and never married parents face the possible loss of contact with one parent, and may suffer from emotional and developmental issues as well. These parents often need help and support finding their way through forms and procedures, which will secure them a relationship with their children. This book addresses Colorado law, the creating of a parenting plan, communication, interventions, and directions on completing court forms. Numerous other resources are also referenced.

Big book donation

One of our regular volunteers, Jeanie Alexander, has given us a new, big book, "The Giant Book of the Human Body" (literally big - 16 by 24 inches). This "library use only" book is filled with wonderful descriptions and illustrations, and can be found on one of the tables in the children's area.

Key Club Read-a-Thon

The high school Key Club recently sponsored a read-a-thon at the intermediate school. One of the readers, Ryann Charles, single-handedly raised $65 for us through his reading. This money will be used to purchase items for the new children's area. We appreciate both his efforts and the willingness of the Key Club to support the library. It is so great to see the youth of the community involved in our expansion efforts.

Storage needs

As we prepare for construction, we will need to shift boxes upon boxes of materials, as well as furniture and equipment, into and out of storage from time to time. We are so grateful to Jere and Lois Hill for their offer of storage units for our use. Sounds like there's some good healthy physical labor ahead for us, doesn't it?

Additional donations

Contributions to the Building Fund continue to arrive. During January we received financial assistance from James and Ione Adams, Bank of the San Juans, Thomas and Judith Clarke, Mrs. Terry Hershey, Karl and Kathleen Isberg, Dallas and Lucille Johnson, Mr. and Mrs. Kingsbury Pitcher and Judith Oppenheimer. We truly appreciate all of you.

We also thank Gerry Adams, Maureen Balog, Delta Buck, Dennis Clark, Joel Granquist, Sandy Martin, Brielle Rubenstein, Bill Ryan, and Martin and Gerda Witkamp for book donations.

No column this week

Bill Woggon wins best of show award in photo contest

By Kayla Douglass

PREVIEW Columnist

If you didn't make it to the photo contest reception at Moonlight Books Saturday evening, you missed a good time. Good fun, good food, good friends and good photos.

It was so well attended, people were gathering on the sidewalk outside. As a 10-year resident, I'm still amazed at all the talent in a town this size.

Bill Woggon won best of show with his Road Town Harbor photo. There were first, second, third and honorable mention ribbons in 15 different categories: Domestic Animals, Architecture, Autumn Scenic, General Landscape, Patterns & Textures, Sports, Flora, People, Up-Close, Winter Scenic, Black & White, Open Category, Wild Fauna, Sunrise/Sunset and Special Techniques.

The exhibit will be up all month at Moonlight Books, so stop by, see the photos and cast your vote for People's Choice.

Those votes will be tallied midway through the event and the winner announced Saturday, Feb. 19. Treat yourself - drop in and enjoy!

Calendar call

Haven't you always wanted a specialized Pagosa Country calendar?

You could be chosen to have your artwork included in it. We're calling all artists for 2006 calendar entries.

The Pagosa Springs Arts Council is sponsoring the ca