Front Page

Thursday, November 15, 2007

Recall effort; fits and starts

By James Robinson
Staff Writer

An effort to recall two Archuleta County commissioners that began Friday continued in fits and starts Wednesday, as the effort has been hamstrung with meeting essential, and statutorily-mandated, recall petition submission requirements.

On Friday, according to Archuleta County Clerk June Madrid, Pagosa Free Press publisher Rick Baker submitted recall petitions for Archuleta County commissioners Bob Moomaw and Ronnie Zaday.

Following the submission, and per statute, Madrid had two days to review the petitions to verify they adhere to the format prescribed in state regulations. According to Madrid, state regulations require certain types of content to appear on specific pages of the petition, and Madrid said after her review, the petitions failed to meet a number of basic formatting requirements.

On Tuesday, Madrid said she returned the petitions to Baker for correction. However, after the corrections were made and the petitions returned, a second problem arose.

According to Madrid, a recall effort requires a recall committee whose names appear clearly and legibly on the petition. In addition to the committee members’ names, reasons for the recall must also be listed.

Madrid said the first petition submittal included the names of Baker, Marge Pantzar and Tracy Salazar; however, the second submittal with the necessary corrections came back with a different series of names. Notably, Pantzar’s name had been removed and replaced with that of Ed King.

(Pantzar is actively involved in the Archuleta County Republican Party, a staunch supporter of Commissioner Robin Schiro and a past contributor to the Pagosa Free Press. Tracy Salazar is the founder of “Citizens Against Rural Violance (sic) C.A.R.V.” which launched its own recall campaign via fascimile blitz to many fax machines in the Archuleta County courthouse.

Like Baker’s recall effort, C.A.R.V.’s recall also omits Schiro from their recall list, although names of virtually all other Archuleta County elected officials appear, including: “Sherrif (sic) Peter L. Gonzalez,” Zaday, Moomaw, Treasurer Lois Baker, Madrid, County Coroner Carl Macht, “County Assessor Karen Prior (sic),” and District Attorney Craig Westberg.

Ed King is a self-titled investigative reporter for the Pagosa Free Press and recently announced Republican candidate for the District 1 county commissioner race.)

Madrid said with the recall committee apparently in flux, she will ask Baker to submit recall committee paperwork, in order to create a “clean, by the book, submission.”

Under the circumstances, Madrid said filing the committee paperwork is essential to protect the integrity of the process, Baker and Archuleta County. Part of the committee paperwork, Madrid said, includes a financial disclosure report, which details from whom the recall committee is receiving their funding. In short, it assures that the recall committee abides by the Campaign Reform Act.

And therein lies a third problem — funding.

According to Madrid, Baker has assured her that funding for the recall election will be provided through the contributions of various individual donors who have promised money earmarked to unseat a particular candidate.

For example, Clarence Meyerscough has offered to provide funding to recall Moomaw.

(Moomaw and Meyerscough verbally butted heads during a Sept. 18, Board of County Commissioners meeting. Meyerscough alleges Moomaw squelched his right to speak, while Moomaw asserts he was asking Meyerscough to adhere to established BoCC meeting procedures — i.e. stepping up to podium and stating one’s name and address for the county clerk.)

Madrid said she is discussing the funding issue with the county attorney to ensure earmarked donations adhere to Colorado law.

Madrid estimates a recall could cost between $30,000 to $40,000, although a discussion of finances may be premature.

Before a recall election transpires, Baker and his recall committee must provide, first, a correctly formatted petition as approved by the clerk, and second, must gather enough signatures to move the recall to the ballot. And all must happen according to a state-mandated timetable (see sidebar).

According to Archuleta County voter registration records, it will take 1,066 verified signatures for Zaday, and 1,159 for Moomaw.

Baker did not return phone calls to The SUN by press time. Thus, a number of questions remain unanswered. For example, why recall just two commissioners instead of three? What are the reasons for mounting a commissioner recall campaign? Who comprises Baker’s donor pool?

james@pagosasun.com


Recall Process Timetable

The road to recall

The road to recall, according to Archuleta County Clerk June Madrid, is subject to a strict timetable and a specific chain of events as outlined in Colorado Revised Statutes.
The trigger, Madrid said, is the submission of the recall petition format to the county clerk. Once the petition format has been submitted, and approved, that act sets the recall clock ticking. Below is the timetable.

• Petition format submitted to clerk.

• Two days — The county clerk has until the close of the second business day after the petition format has been received to approve the petition format.

• 60 days — After petition format approval, the signed petition must be returned and filed with the county clerk within 60 days.

• 10 days — The county clerk has 10 days to complete the sufficiency/non-sufficiency assessment. The assessment includes the verification of signatures. (If the signatures are valid and appear in the necessary number, then recall candidates can begin circulating their recall candidate election petitions.

• 15 days — Protest period. Those named for recall have 15 days to protest signatures found on the petition.

• Five days — After the protest period has expired, the elected official has the option of resigning before the recall question goes to the ballot. In the event of a resignation, the governor will appoint the replacement office holder for an unaffiliated elected official. If the official in question holds a party affiliation, the party will name their replacement. In both cases, the appointed officials will hold the office until the recall election is complete.

• 45 to 75 days — The county clerk must submit a resolution to the governing body to set the recall election not less than 45 days, nor more than 75 days, from date of sufficiency. If the General Election is within 90 days, the recall election will be held then.

Recall Ballots

If the recall effort adheres to the aforementioned timetable and meets essential qualifying criteria, the recall question goes to the ballot. The ballot question will contain a 200-word statement taken from the petition, detailing why the elected official should be recalled.

Also on the ballot, the electorate will find a 300-word statement from the elected official being recalled. The statement must be submitted within 10 days of the sufficiency statement being issued by the clerk.


Two more hats in Dist. 1 ring

By Thea Skinner
Staff Writer

Two more Republican candidates have signalled intent to run for a District 1 seat on the Archuleta County Board of County Commissioners, as part of the upcoming party caucus process.

Kenneth Cowen and Edward King submitted affidavits to the Archuleta County Clerk this week. They join Gene Crabtree as potential candidates in the party process.

Cowen’s background is in finance and administration.

“I don’t have all the answers. I think we have to look at everything and everybody — look at available assets and do the best with what we’ve got,” Cowen said. “There is going to be some give and take.”

Cowen spent about 23 years in the military and 15 years working for the Social Security Administration, in Grand Prairie, Texas. He also earned a bachelor of arts in business administration at DeVry Institute in Dallas, Texas.

Cowen came to Pagosa Springs in 2001 on vacation, and purchased property in the area in 2002.

He worked in the Archuleta County Jail for two years before being transferred to head the Alternative Sentencing Program under the Archuleta County Sheriff’s Department in March 2007. His duties include registering offenders along with transporting or exporting prisoners.

“I went to several BoCC meetings and I asked questions that I did not get answers to,” said Cowen.

He advocates an approach that is “cheaper, safer, more efficient and gets the job done.” His priorities are safety and follow-through on the appeals process for property taxes.

“When snow season hits, it is hard,” he said. “I want to see two deputies in a vehicle during icy conditions. It may cost the county more money, but one person can call on the radio and another can assist people on icy hillsides.”

Cowen submitted formal letters to all county commissioners in August 2007 with questions about equipment for snow removal. “It should not take two to three weeks to get an answer to something like that,” he said. “I don’t want to micromanage, but if I ask you for the information, I expect it in a timely manner or direction to the person I need to go to.”

Cowen’s solution, he said, is planning ahead and making better use of staff time.

“Let’s have a weekly accounting, instead of a monthly accounting. I want to see a statement to verify ... I think not enough of that has been done in the past,” Cowen said. “I want it to be transparent — where any citizen can walk in and get the accounting information.

“I would like to keep the citizens task force on tap for information,” he said referring to their business experience.

Cowen envisions “running the county like a business,” with all department heads at the table engaged in communication.

He will also focus, he said, on a path to handle property tax appeals fairly.

“We’ve got to take care of Archuleta County. If I am elected by the citizens of the county, my job is to take care of them,” he said.

Edward King is a native Coloradan, who hails from Denver and has a background in education. King instructed at the junior college level for 25 years. He also coached football and wrestling.

King majored in kinesiology at the University of California, Los Angeles, and obtained his teaching credentials from San Francisco State University.

A retired teacher, he stays active with his lawn care business. He has lived in Pagosa Springs for 14 years. He began work in Pagosa in real estate and was a substitute teacher in the local district.

“We do have problems and they need to be fixed. Can one person do it? I don’t know,” he said. “I do not have an axe to grind. I want to make the county a better place.”

He explained his desire to run in the election.

“Something moved me to be more active in the community. I have seen too many things going on and sometimes, you have to say enough is enough,” King said. “I think a person can get in there with no special interest group in mind and be there for the people,” he said referring to personal agendas.

He said he aims to address what he sees as current conflicts of interest at the county level. “What is clear to me after sitting in meetings, is that people are looking at ways to prevent issues, but not addressing the long term.”

King said his leadership style will focus on the inclusion of county staff and the community. “You get the right leadership in there and things can be turned around,” he said. “I think we have some excellent leadership in the community. I think a lot of situations will dictate the approach to leadership.”

One of his goals is to have the commissioners on the same page. “There are huge gaps in communication,” he said.

To fill the gaps, he offers a solution involving county staff. “I would get input from county employees to make things change. The assessor’s office brings in over six million a year to the coffers, but they have been cut severely. It is a serious problem,” King said.

He called for cohesion among commissioners and working toward a common goal.

He said he plans on “getting more involved with town.” Although his positions have not solidified, he said he plans to focus on environment and economic growth topics. “I am not anti-growth. I think we need to have smart growth,” he said.

“If I were in that job (commissioner), I would work for the county employees,” King said. “I love this place and I want to see it be a place people can be proud of. There are a lot of people that are hard working and I am trying to get a handle on the day to day (operations).”


USFS seeks input on ATV use

By Chuck McGuire
Staff Writer

The Pagosa Ranger District of the San Juan National Forest seeks public input on two proposed travel management plans allowing exclusive use of all-terrain vehicles (ATVs) on some backcountry roads and trails, while prohibiting it on others. To help shape an environmental assessment expected next summer, comments must be submitted by Nov. 26.

During a public open house at the Pagosa Springs Community Center Saturday, district officials provided information and answered questions regarding the two alternative plans, either one of which would bring the district into compliance with a Travel Management Rule (The Rule) made effective Nov. 9, 2005. The Rule can be viewed in its entirety by visiting www.fs.fed.us/recreation.

Key features of the rule include the following:

• The agency (Pagosa Ranger District) is required to designate those roads, trails and areas that are open to motor vehicle use.

• Designation of routes will include time of year or season the route is open for motor vehicle use.

• The prohibition of motor vehicle use off the designated system goes into effect once the unit (Pagosa Ranger District) has designated those routes that are open to motor vehicle use and a Motor Vehicle Use Map has been published.

• The Rule prohibits the use of motor vehicles off the designated system, as well as the use of specific classes of motor vehicles that are not consistent with the designations on specific routes.

According to The Rule, new regulations do not apply to administrative access, law enforcement operations, government contractors, emergency motor vehicle use, and motor vehicle use that is specifically authorized under permits which may include special events, firewood gathering, livestock operations, or recreation and lands special uses.

At this time, specific portions of the Pagosa Ranger District that are subject to this analysis include primitive roads within the Devil Mountain and First Fork areas, short sections of motorized trails terminating at or near wilderness boundaries, and other single-track motorized trails that do not safely accommodate ATVs. With that in mind, the Forest Service has devised two alternative actions, copies of which — including maps — are available at the district office located at 180 Pagosa Street.

Alternative 1, deemed “no action,” would comply with The Rule and includes the following:

• Existing motorized roads and trails designations would remain in place.

• Within Devil Mountain and First Fork travel management areas “C” and “D,” motorized cross-country travel would be prohibited except on currently open designated motorized roads.

• No new motorized roads or trails would be designated.

• Motorized trails currently designated as open would remain unchanged.

• Parking within 300 feet of an open road would only be allowed for dispersed camping, if such travel dos not result in resource damage.

• Existing seasonal closures on roads will remain in place.

A Motor Vehicle Use Map reflecting the above conditions would be published, and this alternative would be used as a basis for comparing impacts of the second alternative.

Alternative 2, known as the “Proposed Action,” would be similar to the first alternative, except all motorized roads and trails would be subject to seasonal closures in order to protect resources or reduce damage when conditions are wet. Additionally, parking off a designated road or trail for day-use activities would be allowed within one vehicle length of the edge of said road or trail, provided it’s safe and doesn’t damage resources or facilities.

Under Alternative 2, a number of primitive, currently closed roads within the Devil Mountain and First Fork areas would be open to ATVs and motorcycles, while the main First Fork Road (FR 622) would be open to highway-legal motorized vehicles only, and not ATVs.

Furthermore, portions of trails at the end of the Middle Fork (No. 589), Fourmile (No. 569), Coal Creek (No. 581) and Navajo Peak (No. 577) roads, which are currently open to ATVs and motorcycles, would be closed to all motorized use. The Treasure Mountain (No. 565) and Windy Pass (No. 566) trails would be closed to ATVs, but remain open to motorcycles, and a 600-foot stretch of the Turkey Creek Trail (No. 580) would be “designated to a dispersed campsite.”

Again, public comments made by Nov. 26 will assist the Forest Service in directing a required environmental assessment, which should be available for further public input by next summer. Remarks, including names and addresses of those commenting, will be considered part of the public record and will be available for pubic review.

Of course, anyone wishing to have his or her submission withheld from the public record, may do so by illustrating how the Freedom of Information Act permits such confidentiality.

Send comments in writing to: Paul Blackman, Pagosa Ranger District/Field Office, P.O. Box 310, Pagosa Springs, CO 81147.
For more information on the comment process or Travel Management Rule, call Blackman at (970) 264-1505.

chuck@pagosasun.com


NEWS

COUNTY

County crisis FAQ:

What will you do in the next 14 months to demonstrate
that you are competent leaders of Archuleta County?

By James Robinson
Staff Writer

Often, the questions prompted by the county’s financial crisis are shared by many readers. The SUN’s county crisis FAQ page provides a forum for readers to ask their questions, and to receive an answer, if one is available.

During the county-sponsored “town hall” style meeting held Oct. 30, Lisa Scott asked the Board of County Commissioners about past and ongoing board member dysfunction and whether that dysfunction had crippled their ability to lead.

Following their responses, Scott said the commissioners had not satisfactorily answered the question. Following the meeting, others in the audience said they agreed. Thus, The SUN is giving the commissioners another opportunity to respond.

The question: “What will you do in the next 14 months to demonstrate that you are competent leaders of Archuleta County?”

Commissioner Ronnie Zaday
“Our Board is structured as a three-member Board, all three very strong, very capable, with differing opinions and strengths. As one of these leaders, my commitment is to work as a Board member, accepting the other members’ opinions, ultimately finding the best solutions for our County. It is my responsibility to research and understand the issues from all sides, and represent my constituents. Once a vote has been cast, I will completely support the Board decision.

A leader points out the positive actions taken, not just the negative. We have implemented the following: county road map, road/asset inventory, land use code, zoning map, departments communicating through technology, updated personnel and wage policies, and started a strategic planning process.

My goals are to:
1) Work with the Citizen’s Financial Advisory Task Force, elected officials and staff, establishing corrective policies/procedures implementing checks and balances for all departments.
2) Strongly support code of conduct and whistleblower policies.
3) Use the resources of appointed community task force groups and create more volunteer task forces to brainstorm solutions.
4) Implement performance based measurements of budgets, of departments and staff; increasing efficiency, productivity, cross training, and team building with staff and leadership training.
5) Continue informative public meetings.”

Commissioner Bob Moomaw
“When I took office in January this year I had a lot of things I wanted to accomplish. Since taking office I have spent 35 to 60 hours a week working on problems that happened long before I took office. I wanted to work on roads, bringing county and town government together, revise the county zoning regulations just to mention a few things.

The financial crisis changed my priorities. This problem appears to have started as early as 1999. The county financial crisis, which I inherited when I took office less than a year ago, is almost solved. The audit is completed, the reorganization of county government into a functional efficient responsive group of very dedicated and talented county employees is almost complete, and a balanced 2008 budget will be voted on December 18th. I hope Commissioner Schiro and Zaday can put their personal conflicts aside and work as a team for you the citizens of Archuleta County. My goal for the next 14 months is to focus on moving the county forward, revise county zoning regulations, begin to look at consolidating departments with the town and evaluate home rule to increase the number of commissioners to five. If you have any thoughts on these or other issues please contact me.”

Commissioner Robin Schiro
The commissioner did not respond to the query.

If you have a question that hasn’t been fully answered, or addressed, send it to james@pagosasun.com.


Town Council gets look at draft 2008 budget

By Thea Skinner
Staff Writer

As part of town manager Mark Garcia’s draft 2008 budget presentation to the Pagosa Springs Council on Nov. 6, proposed revenues, expenditures and department budgets were outlined in a memorandum.

According to a draft budget, total revenues increased from $7.25 million in 2007, to a projected $7.71 million for 2008. In addition, the draft budget indicated a decrease in “total general funds” revenues from $6.41 million in 2007, to a projected $6.13 million in 2008. Reserve revenues also showed a decrease, from $1.72 million in 2007, to $1.63 million projected for 2008.

“The total budget for the town general funds under revenues decreased from $6,410,926 in 2007 to a projected $6,137,857,” wrote Garcia, “while the total budget for reserves under revenues decreased from $1,725,163 in 2007 to a projected $1,632,577.”

On the expenditure side, totals jumped from $7.25 million in 2007, to a projected $7.71 million in 2008.

Total expenditures increased from $7.25 million in 2007 to a projected $7.71 million in 2008.

The revenue items listed in the memorandum slated to change from 2007 to 2008 are:
• Property tax assessment increases due to increased valuation.
• Sales tax is estimated at the 2007 budget level or at an increase of 4 percent from the estimated collection in 2007.
• Collection of building permit and development fees is less than 2006.
• County road mill revenues have increased due to increased valuations.
• Congestion Mitigation Air Quality (CMAQ) and enhancement projects are continued into 2008. Under CMAQ town qualifies for federal funding by meeting PM10 standards in controlling dirt and airborne dust.
• Reserve balance has increased due to deferred projects that will be constructed in 2008, but will decrease in 2008.
The expenditure items listed in the memorandum to change from 2007 to 2008 include:
• Salaries will increase by 4 percent, which involves a 3 percent cost of living adjustment and one percent merit increases across the board.
• The special projects coordinator is reprogrammed to an assistant manager position.
• A new full-time employee is added to the parks department in the spring.
• A director is hired for the parks and recreation department.
• The narcotics officer is again covered by the town with some participation from the county. Discussions are underway for a combined dispatch center with town funding estimated at $50,000, although the dispatch funds are not in the budget at this time.
• A new full-time employee is added to the streets department in the spring.
• The planning director position will be reprogrammed.
• Requests continue from various service organizations.
• The Capital Improvement Plan is large for 2008 and includes completion of a portion of Lewis Street, Greatwest Avenue, Majestic Drive, two pedestrian bridges, Riverwalk Trail phase II, the sports complex phase II, various asphalt and sidewalk projects, various planning studies and a skate park.

The majority of projected expense in each department’s total budget is devoted to personnel, with the exception of the proposed budget for the Geothermal Department.
The administration budget decreased from $264,116 in 2007 to a projected $256,057. This amount includes the new town assistant manager position.

The parks department budget is up from $170,153 in 2007 to a projected $206,738.

Recreation budget is up from $376,038 in 2007 to a projected $455,002.

The police department budget increased from $649,095 in 2007 to a projected $653,511, in which $598,461 is for personnel.

The street department’s total budget is up from $290,442 in 2007 to a projected $337,835.

The geothermal budget is up from $23,833 in 2007 to a projected $28,596.

Building and planning’s budget is down from $227,633 in 2007 to a projected $226,638.

Service organizations’ requests fuel a total budget increase from $101,728 in 2007 to a projected $137,806.

The capital improvement budget increased from $2.55 million in 2007 to a projected $2.78 million. Out of the $2.78 million $350,000 was carried over from 2007 to 2008 for street, sidewalk and curb and gutter improvements along the 400 block of Lewis Street. The project will also include pedestrian scale lighting and landscaping upgrades for events and festivals.

Municipal court’s budget increased from $155,636 in 2007 to a projected $162,011.

The community center budget increased from $129,074 in 2007 to a projected $139,317.

The town clerk and Town Hall budget increased from $214,014 in 2007 to a projected $238,560.

Town maintenance budget increased from $117,850 in 2007 to a projected $124,955.

A meeting on the draft budget will take place at Town Hall Nov. 19, with adoption scheduled for Dec. 4.
thea@pagosasun.com


TOWN

INSIDE

District deals with last-minute hospital details

By Chuck McGuire
Staff Writer

With the Pagosa Mountain Hospital grand opening scheduled Jan. 5, the Upper San Juan Health Service District is frenetically finalizing a long list of last minute details. Not the least among items yet undone, are the completion of vital documents, the hiring of professional staff and final preparation of the building itself.

At its regular monthly meeting last week, the district board of directors heard several reports on progress running up to opening day.

Board Chair Neal Townsend began with a brief update on the anticipated completion of a necessary “physicians contract” between the district and doctors that will man the hospital. After describing the document and assuring the board that district attorneys would complete it within a few days, he turned the floor over to hospital Chief Executive Officer Dan Boatman.

Before touching on hospital hiring, Boatman first submitted the conceptual design of a temporary hospital sign for board approval. Once affirmed, the sign would be placed in front of the new facility and lit for all to see. As the board chose to table the sign matter, pending the establishment of an official logo, Boatman turned to staffing.

As of Nov. 6, Boatman had filled four key hospital positions, with two more in the final stages of negotiations. Those already hired include a medical records person, two radiologic technologists and a director of nursing. Once hired, the candidates still negotiating employment will become essential laboratory technicians.

Boatman described the medical records person as having valuable paralegal experience, while one of the radiologic technologists has an extensive mammography background. Though she may need additional training in Computerized Axial Tomography (cat scan, or CT), Boatman characterized the other technologist as already proficient in that field. As a critical team member, the nursing director will assist in hiring most of the clinical staff.

By Monday, the director of nursing will begin reviewing applications and resumes, with hopes of hiring 10 to 14 clinical staff members very soon. According to Boatman, none will apparently come from Mercy Regional Medical Center in Durango, which, he said, is good for maintaining relations.

In the near future, a third radiologic technologist, another part-time laboratory technician, three dietary personnel, a part-time phlebotomist (one who draws blood), and two housekeeping employees will be necessary.

While actual building construction is largely complete and contractors are now conducting a final clean, Boatman will soon bring on “a massive workforce” to thoroughly clean the facility to district standards. Once complete, he hopes to retain a couple of people as the housekeeping staff.

Meanwhile, a four-slice CT scanner recently purchased from Mercy should soon be installed, and a portable x-ray unit that once served the former Dr. Mary Fisher Medical Center is being updated to convert analog images to a digital format. Computer servers and hardware systems are in place, a relatively quiet paging system is nearly finished, and steady progress continues on hospital policies and procedures and necessary licensing requirements.

At last week’s meeting, discussions also touched on the evaluation of several proposed hospital logo designs, recent clergy input on the design of a nondenominational “meditation” room, a rate structure for the various hospital services offered, employee health insurance and benefit packages, computer software and billing systems, and ongoing fundraising activities.

With a multitude of tasks behind them, and many others coming together fast, Boatman and members of the district board believe they’ll be ready for the Jan. 5 Pagosa Mountain Hospital grand opening.

Let’s hope so … the facility opens for business Jan. 7.

chuck@pagosasun.com


Pagosa Springs Sanitation District draft budget to be considered

By Thea Skinner
Staff Writer

A draft budget for The Town of Pagosa Springs Sanitation General Improvement District, including elements related to the construction of a newly-approved wastewater treatment plant, is ready for consideration by the district board.

Town manager Mark Garcia presented the draft budget to the board (the town council, serving as the sanitation district board) on Nov. 6.

“We will still have some reserves left over and may not have to use town reserves,” said Garcia, referring to the idea that reserves would be used, in part, to fund the treatment plant project.

The proposed 2008 budget total includes reserves and expenditures of $4.91 million. This amount represents an increase from the 2007 budget of $3.82 million.

Total expenditures are projected to increase from $2.97 million in 2007 to a projected $4.76 million for 2008.

The total revenue and reserve budget for 2008 increased from $3.21 million in 2007 to a projected $4.91 million for 2008.

According to Garcia’s Pagosa Springs Sanitation General Improvement District 2008 Budget Message, the major increase in projected revenue is due to loans and grants received for the construction of the new wastewater treatment plant.

The town secured financing sources for the project. The town will seek to use a $2 million loan from the Colorado Water Resources and Power Development Authority, through the Water Pollution Control Revolving fund accruing 1.875 percent interest over 20 years; a $750,000 Colorado Department of Local Affairs (DoLA) grant and a possible $1 million DoLA loan. If this loan is secured, it will accrue 5 percent interest over 20 years.

The memorandum also states: “The estimated plant investment fees are $250,000 and also reflect an increase in rates,” to customers. The amount of that rate increase has not yet been determined.

The wastewater treatment plant includes a $4.3 million base case component, along with additions or deductions for in-kind contributions, such as the use of town labor and equipment.

“If our prices come in too high, we can trim from the project,” said Garcia explaining the base case component.

A meeting on the draft sanitation budget will take place at Town Hall Nov. 19, and the board will consider the document for final approval at a Dec. 4 meeting.

thea@pagosasun.com


Sunday grass fire ignited by fireworks

By Thea Skinner
Staff Writer

The Pagosa Ranger District and Field Office fire danger sign reads “High,” and a fire that burned in a grassy open field in the Hatcher Subdivision near Piedra Road on Sunday, Nov. 11, proves the point.

Pagosa Fire Protection District firefighters and Archuleta County Sheriff’s personnel arrived at the scene at approximately 12:50 p.m.

The windblown grass fire was extinguished within about 1 1/2 hours.

About 1 to 1.5 acres of land burned in the fire, said Manny Trujillo, Pagosa Fire Protection District assistant fire chief and fire marshal.

Children started the fire while playing with sparkler fireworks in the field, said Trujillo. Fire district officers gave the children a verbal warning.

Children playing with fireworks need to be on pavement, and supervised, said Trujillo.
“Smoke was visible from Piedra Road,” said Drew Petersen, Archuleta County Sheriff Emergency Services coordinator.

The wind blew the fire upslope toward a backyard fence at a residence. With the fire directed upslope by the wind, the fire moved fast, said Petersen.

Several houses were in the path of the fire. At least three houses were threatened, according to Trujillo.

“We have had unusually hot weather. If it continues like this we may need to approach our sheriff to implement a fire ban,” said Trujillo.

According to Petersen, ignition of a fire depends on the dryness of fuels, humidity in the atmosphere and wind.

He indicated that November is the month Colorado normally experiences the most wind.

Although no official fire ban is in effect in Archuleta County, the eastern plains of Colorado was placed on a fire weather watch Tuesday.

The National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration reports a 50 percent probability that temperatures will be above normal through Tuesday, Nov. 20. The extended outlook calls for warmer and dryer than normal weather conditions in Pagosa Springs through January.

thea@pagosasun.com


Fire insurance rating pending for Chromo area

By Thea Skinner
Staff Writer

Pagosa Fire Protection District Volunteers made ample use of water supplies in the recently-annexed Chromo area Monday through Wednesday of this week.

While a firefighting team demonstrated its ability to supply water for fire suppression, representatives of the Insurance Services Office (ISO) surveyed the team.

The survey results will help the office rate in the Chromo area. After data from the survey is analyzed, ISO will assign a classification to Chromo based on a Public Protection Classification (PPC) program.

The ISO’s Fire Suppression Rating Schedule (FSRS) is used by insurance companies that subscribe to the service. Some insurance companies determine the premium rate to charge homeowners by using the ISO rating.

“We have to show the ISO that we can provide at least 250 gallons of water uninterrupted for two hours for a class 8A,” said Joel M. Trujillo, Pagosa Fire Protection District assistant fire chief.

ISO will award points for having water sources available that can be used year round.

On a scale from one to 10, the lower the score that is assessed, the better the insurance premium rates.

Waterflow in the area is provided through various sources such as ponds and water tanks. Points are awarded for various water supplies including communities with sprinklers installed in houses.

In some areas, two companies, meaning two fire engines, are required and in a community with sprinklers installed in homes, only one is needed, said Trujillo.

“Whatever water is available in the area we work with,” Trujillo said. “We use our watertenders, but we have to have a place to draft water from, such as lakes, ponds or storage tanks.”

A Class One rating indicates exemplary fire protection; a Class 10 means the area’s fire suppression program does not meet ISO’s minimum criteria.

According to Mike Waters, vice president of ISO’s Risk Decision Services department, “There are no class one communities in Colorado. The PPC program is based on an evaluation of a municipality’s fire department (50 percent), fire alarm (10 percent) and water supplies (40 percent). A community’s investment in fire mitigation is a proven and reliable predicator of future fire losses. By offering economic benefits for communities that invest in firefighting services, the program provides a real incentive for improving and maintaining public fire protection.”

Pagosa Springs was surveyed around 1999, resulting in a lowered PPC rating.

“The city of Pagosa Springs is protected by the Pagosa Fire Protection District whose PPC is a five to ten,” said Waters. “Chromo does not have a specific classification at this time.”

The Fire Department section of the FSRS differentiates between paid and volunteer firefighters, based on their availability for response. This calculation reflects the difference between having full-time, on-call firefighters available 24 hours per day, compared to volunteers who must first respond from work or home to the fire station or fire scene. Consequently, provided that the fire department has acceptable records, three volunteer firefighters are factored to equal one full-time paid firefighter.

ISO does not track the insurance companies that subscribe, and not all insurance companies use the data from ISO.

If a fire department or district is recognized by ISO, however, some non-subscribing agencies will consider the data.

A PPC rate will be assigned to Chromo within the next few months, said Waters.

thea@pagosasun.com


Fatherhood advocate addresses Ruritan Club

By Ben Bagwell
Staff Writer

John Vick, fatherhood advocate for Archuleta County Department of Human Services, urged Archuleta County Ruritan members last Thursday to be aware that pay levels for many people in the county are low.

“No one gets rich here,” he said. “It is my job to improve the employability of low-income males here,” Vick said. He is currently working with 40 adult males.

“Fifty percent of the men here have unskilled jobs,” said Vick. “I help them even if they have no resumes,” he said. “Most of the potential jobs are in construction and food service.”

Vick works under a $1 million federal grant provided to the local Department of Human Services by the federal government. The federal source agreed to provide the county $200,000 a year for five years. His appearance at the club meeting was informational only; he did not seek money from the organization.

A similar federal grant was also approved for Montrose County. Nationwide, there were 800 applications for grants to the Department of Health and Human Services. The applications were from programs that focus on healthy marriages or job training. From the 800 applications, 200 were approved across the U.S.

Also at last week’s meeting, the Ruritans agreed they would be called the Archuleta County Ruritan Club, not the Archuleta Ruritan Club.

In other business, the Ruritans:
• Continued to plan to decorate a Christmas tree for the upcoming Festival of Trees.
• Signed the club charter. The club so far has 23 charter members.
• Continued with plans to provide financial support for the gasoline costs of volunteers transporting dialysis patients back and forth to Durango’s Dialysis Center.
• Agreed the club’s next meeting will be 6 p.m., Thursday, Dec. 13.


Operation Helping Hand programs work to meet needs of local residents

Operation Helping Hand will join with the Rotary Club to distribute winter clothing at the fairgrounds Extension Building from 3-5 p.m. tomorrow.

For Archuleta County’s less fortunate citizens, more help is on the way.

According to Operation Helping Hand organizers, 413 people, including 207 children and 45 senior citizens, have registered for assistance from the program. The deadline for applying for help is 4 p.m. Thursday, Dec. 6. Application forms are available at the Human Services office at Town Hall on Hot Springs Boulevard.

Something Old, Something New
Program organizers, who help coordinate the charitable work of area civic clubs, churches, businesses and organizations, say they are getting numerous requests for used furniture, blankets, pots and pans, dishes, silverware and electric blankets. These items, which organizers say can be “used, but still usable,” should be brought to one of the following drop off locations: Jann Pitcher Real Estate, located on Put Hill, Bank of the San Juans on Hot Springs Boulevard, either 1st Southwest Bank location or the Movie Gallery in the Country Center Shopping Center by Tuesday, Dec. 18.

Toy Outreach
This branch of Operation Helping Hand provides an opportunity for children to get involved in the program.

Parents may help their children select for donation a toy or toys they no longer use, but which are still in good condition. Used bikes, PlayStations, stereos and CD players are especially high on the wish lists of many young people. These items should be brought to one of the above drop off locations by Tuesday, Dec. 18.

Project Empty Stocking
Volunteers will post requested items on paper stockings at both City Markets on Saturday. These requests range from socks and underwear to snow boots, pants, coats and toys. To fill one of these requests, remove a stocking from the board in City Market, then purchase and wrap your gift, attaching the stocking to your package so the gift will be delivered to the correct individual or family. Take your gift to one of the above drop off locations by Tuesday, Dec. 18.

Snowflake Program
Volunteers at Community United Methodist Church are participating by assisting families with their holiday needs in cooperation with Operation Helping Hand.

Christmas Food Boxes
Food donations are always needed for Christmas dinners. It is the goal of Operation Helping Hand volunteers to provide the ingredients for a holiday dinner to those who otherwise would go without this holiday season. Nonperishable items may be brought to one of the above drop off locations by Tuesday, Dec. 18.

You can also help by purchasing a City Market gift certificate and bringing it to the Pagosa Springs SUN or mailing it to Operation Helping Hand, P.O. Box 1083, Pagosa Springs, CO 81147. These certificates will be used to purchase turkeys and other perishable items.

Other components of the Operation Helping Hand Program will be outlined in upcoming weeks in the PREVIEW.

Civic organizations and church groups have united to avoid duplication of efforts and ensure as many holiday season needs and wishes as possible can be accommodated.

Questions about Operation Helping Hand may be directed to the message line, 731-3735. A volunteer will return your call, if necessary.

Monetary donations can be made to Operation Helping Hand and deposited to account no. 6240417424 at Wells Fargo Bank or account no. 20014379 at Bank of the San Juans. Donations may also be mailed to Operation Helping Hand, P.O. Box 1083, Pagosa Springs, CO 81147.


Pagosa’s Carmen Hubbs receives ‘Be Bold’ award

As part of its 20th anniversary, The Women’s Foundation of Colorado is honoring 20 Colorado women who are making positive impacts on women’s and girls’ economic self-sufficiency with the “Be Bold” award.

In two decades, the foundation has invested over $9 million and partnered with more than 180 agencies and communities to make the financial independence and security of women a state priority.

One of those being honored this year is Carmen Hubbs, of Pagosa Springs, the executive director of the Archuleta County Victim Assistance program.

In order to be considered for the award, an applicant had to exhibit leadership that positively affects women’s and girls’ economic self-sufficiency, including work as an agent of change for women’s and girls’ interests, breaking new ground in male-dominated fields, and/or serving as an inspiration to others in these arenas.

A nominee’s work had to be consistent with the foundation’s mission embodying the vision and values of the foundation’s founders and trustees. Chief among the principals are diversity and inclusivity; efficiency; innovation; philanthropy, collaboration and cooperation; and leadership.

A candidate’s work had to make an impact on the state or local community.

A nomination letter submitted to the foundation by Pagosa resident Lisa Scott summarized Hubbs’ contributions to our community.

“Introducing Carmen Hubbs:

“In our community of 12,000 people, services can be few and far between. Organizations with a focus on human services start and stop based on their funding and their leadership. Problems that plague a small community are often unrecognized by the community at large and underserved by the government entities. The Archuleta County Victim Assistant (ACVAP) began in 1997 as a law enforcement-based agency.

“In 1998, ACVAP was awarded non-profit status and paltry funds were available to hire an executive director. Carmen Hubbs, a local girl who had returned home with a degree from the University of New Mexico and two years’ experience as a counselor in a juvenile residential treatment center, was hired full time as the first executive director. She was the only employee working with several volunteers to assess the needs and develop the programs necessary to serve this community.

“The growth of ACVAP over the past nine years has been steady, efficient and has truly addressed the needs of this community at the most basic levels. All of the accomplishments of this agency have been under the leadership and innovation of Carmen. Initially, the mission was intervention with law enforcement in cases of assault and domestic violence, 100 percent being women and children.

“Carmen was aggressive in identifying more victims to serve, getting the word out about this new organization and the services they provide, and educating the community about a problem that was largely unrecognized.

“In 1999, she created a Court Advocacy Program with law enforcement. A part-time court advocate was hired to assist victims who seek orders of protection, and educate victims as to their rights, enabling their participation and understanding of a complex criminal justice system. Continually more victims were being identified and assisted, always over 95 percent being women and their children.

“Carmen’s love for the human spirit and its potential was mimicked by the volunteers whose use was limited. Carmen instigated a program by which these volunteers could be trained advocates to interact face-to-face with victims. These advocates, all women, have also been given an opportunity through their own desire to help other women in need and are now empowered to change a life. Carmen is inspirational and shares her commitment and natural sensitivity with others very easily.

“Additional funding resources were needed and Carmen became an accomplished grant writer. Her success in obtaining grant funding is the sole reason that ACVAP has been able to grow staff, continue to enhance the training and to expand the services and programs offered.

“Collaboration and outreach beyond local law enforcement and the court system became obvious. Quickly, Carmen was able to convene many local resources that were willing to assist victims with their long-term needs. She is an extremely engaged member of this community and has tremendous impact on issues pertaining to violent crimes and their victims and other human service issues.

“Carmen’s personal drive and innovation are always reaching for the next level. One more recent and substantial change under her leadership is the move from being an agency providing intervention strategies to an agency focusing on prevention. Carmen raises her own bar. She has breathed life and enthusiasm into this initiative. The accomplishments of ACVAP are hers. Her energy and passion for victims is undaunted, as is her vision for the future of the agency. She’s a young leader with tremendous potential and now that she’s raising her own young family here, we hope it means she’s here to stay. The impact she has had on the victims of violent crime, over 95 percent being women and children, is both remarkable and commendable.”

Also submitted for consideration, were details concerning the Archuleta County Victim Assistance program.

“Through the support of grants, donations, fund-raising efforts, volunteers and staff, ACVAP provides the following services:
• Four professional advocates.
• 14 volunteers trained as victim’s advocates.
• Immediate 24-hour crisis, advocacy and support services.
• Court advocate to explain and navigate the criminal justice system.
• Emergency transportation to safe shelter in a neighboring county.
• Youth violence prevention education program.
• Bi-monthly women’s support group and coordinating children’s support group.
• Women and power financial workshop series.
• Sexual assault awareness programming provided in the school district preschool through 12th grade.
• Community outreach and professional training programs.
• Counseling supplemental funds program.
• Assistance with outreach to other community agencies and supportive organizations to provide resources to fulfill the needs of victims on an immediate and ongoing basis. Relationships include local law enforcement, local court system, DA’s office, the Department of Social Services, housing agencies, food assistance, local counselors, legal aid groups, local churches and several other small entities to meet basic needs.
• Information and referrals.
• Speakers and trainers to provide community education to increase awareness of the issue of violent crime, its victims and their needs and the needs of the agency.
• Knowledge and information on state and federal legislation.
• Established advisory board to share ideas and concerns and to assist in garnering support for the agency.
• Organize annual community activity during Sexual Assault Awareness Month.
• Organize annual agency fund-raising event.”


Medicare plans, get the most out of them

By Musetta Wollenweber
Special to The SUN

Did you know Medicare’s Part D (drug plan) open enrollment begins again today, Nov. 15?

Now is the time to re-evaluate your current plan. Has it met your needs this year?

The Senior Health Insurance Plans Medicare counselors recommend taking this quick Rx Enrollment Checkup. If you are satisfied with your plan, you do not have to do anything to re-enroll. Take a few minutes now and ask yourself these three questions:

• Cost: Will your premium and costs change in 2008?
• Coverage: Do you need more coverage in 2008? Will the prescription drugs you take be covered by your plan in 2008?
• Customer service: Are you satisfied with your plan’s service?

Important Medicare dates
Compare plans on www.medicare.gov or make an appointment at The Den with one of the counselors to help you re-evaluate your plan.

• Nov 15 — Open enrollment begins.
• Dec 31 — Open enrollment ends.
• Jan 1 — Coverage begins.

The Den is recommending everyone re-evaluate and or enroll early to make sure they get the prescriptions they need on Jan. 1. Everyone should be re-evaluated before Dec. 8 to make sure their prescription needs are being met.

If you are over the age of 65 and have not yet enrolled in a drug plan, there are penalties for late enrollment — the longer you wait, the higher the penalty. The Den’s Medicare counselors are available at to help you. Call 264-2167 to schedule your appointment; walk-ins cannot be accommodated. For folks who are homebound, we have limited services to help meet their needs.

If you have received a letter in the mail regarding your plan(s), do not throw it away; read it — it contains very important information that could cost you money if not addressed. If you find the letter is too confusing, call us and make an appointment; we are here to help you make sense of it all.

Not only are our counselors available to help you with your drug plan options, they are also available to help you with your questions about Medicare in general.

Are you just about to celebrate your 65th birthday and wonder what your options are? Are you having trouble with a bill?

Our counselors can help you with your questions, just call for an appointment and help will be on the way.

We have a reminder for you: Please take caution if you receive a call from an agent with any plan. Sales people sometimes use high pressure to encourage you to change your plan to what they say is something with better benefits, that include doctor visits and so on. Use extreme caution, ask questions, never make a decision on the spot, and never give out your Social Security number or bank account numbers. Talk to someone you trust and know that our counselors are happy to answer your questions. A sales representative cannot contact you and initiate a change. You must contact the plan to make any changes.

Open enrollment for Medicare Advantage and other Medicare plans begins Jan. 1, however, if you have a health plan that does not include a drug plan, now is the time to make this addition if you are interested. Don’t delay, call today — 264-2167.


Veterans Day address: Vietnam, the veterans, the myths, the realities

American Legion Post Commander Jim Huffman addressed about 200 visitors to the post during a Veterans Day celebration on Sunday.

In his talk Huffman, who retired from the Army as a Lt. Colonel, focused on Vietnam veterans, on the sacrifices they made, and on little known or recognized facts about the Vietnam War.

“There are many myths and misconceptions about Vietnam veterans that have been repeated blindly over the last 30 years that need to be addressed,” Huffman said.

Following are Huffman’s comments:
“I would like to welcome everyone and thank you all for attending these ceremonies today during which we honor the memory of our comrades who gave their lives in the service of our country, our fellow veterans who have passed on before us as a result of time, our comrades in arms still missing in action from all of the wars, and all of the veterans from all wars still living. And, I would like to recognize our Gold Star Mother for today’s ceremonies, Mrs. Dora Manzanares, whose son was killed in Vietnam.

“While Veterans Day is in tribute to all veterans, this year we have decided to particularly focus our celebration and remembrance on our veterans from Vietnam, as we have focused on the veterans from other wars in past years. There are many myths and misconceptions about Vietnam veterans that have been repeated blindly over the last 30 years that I feel a need to address on this Veteran’s Day. As a result, my comments later today will be different from the kinds of comments I have made at past Memorial Day and Veterans Day activities.

“What is a veteran? Recently, I have received several e-mails from friends with this statement: “A veteran  — whether active duty, retired, national guard or reserve — is someone who, at one point in their life, wrote a blank check made payable to ‘The United States of America,’ for an amount of ‘up to and including my life.’ I can think of no better way to say it.

“We, as American citizens, are blessed with freedom and democracy unequalled in the world today. Freedom is not free!

“The Vietnam War era is designated as 1964-1975. Service during that period was:
• 8,744,000 — total U.S. Service members (worldwide).
• 3,403,000 — Deployed to Southeast Asia.
• 2,594,000 — Deployed to South Vietnam.
• 47,424 — Battle deaths.
• 10,785 — Other deaths (in Theater).
• 153,303 — Wounded

“A third of all living veterans served during the Vietnam era.

“Most, if not all of us, had family (fathers, mothers, brothers, sisters, aunts, uncles) who served in WW II and Korea.

“They returned from their wars generally as heroes. Their actions were portrayed at the box office in movies like ‘The Sands of Iwo Jima,’ ‘12 O’Clock High,’ ‘A Walk in the Sun’ and ‘GI Joe.’ Heroic actions and heroic units like the 101st at Bastogne.

“We returned from Vietnam, generally labeled as ‘dupes,’ or ‘murderers, rapists, or drug-crazed baby killers.’ Rather than as heroes or heroic actions, we were greeted at the box office with movies like ‘Platoon,’ ‘Apocalypse Now,’ ‘Full Metal Jacket’ and ‘Hamburger Hill’ — portrayals of dysfunction and criminality; months of publicizing the My Lai Massacre.

“(A fact sheet from Major General (Ret.) David R. Bockel, Director of Army Affairs, Reserve Officers Association.)

“We did our jobs; we returned, picked up our lives and moved on; we started families and raised kids; we worked, went to school, and started businesses. We did all the things our parents did after World War Two, just without any recognition of what we had been through. Some of us had it easier than others, but most all of us coped and ‘continued the mission.’

“Just under 9,000,000 military personnel served on active duty during the official Vietnam era. Approximately 2,600,000 Americans served in uniform in Vietnam.

“Vietnam Veterans represented 9.7 percent of their generation.

“Two hundred-forty men were awarded the Medal of Honor during the Vietnam War.

“Of the 58,209 killed in Vietnam; 35,470 were younger than 21, 11,465 were younger than 20, and 17,539 were married.

“The average age of men killed was 23.1 years.

“There are still 1,875 Americans unaccounted for from the Vietnam War.

“Ninety-seven percent of Vietnam veterans were honorably discharged.

“Ninety-one percent of Vietnam veterans say they are glad they served.

“Seventy-four percent say they would serve again, even knowing the outcome.

“Vietnam veterans have a lower unemployment rate than the same non-vet age groups.

“Vietnam veterans’ personal income exceeds that of our non-veteran age group by more than 18 percent.

“Eighty-seven percent of Americans hold Vietnam Veterans in high esteem.

“There is no difference in drug usage between Vietnam veterans and non-Vietnam veterans of the same age group (Source: Veterans Administration Study).

“Vietnam veterans are less likely to be in prison — only one-half of one percent of Vietnam veterans have been jailed for crimes.

“Eighty-five percent of Vietnam Veterans made successful transitions to civilian life.

“One million seven-hundred thousand of those who served in Vietnam were still alive as of August 1995 (census figures); and 9,490,000 falsely claimed to have served in-country.

“As of the 2000 Census, the surviving U.S. Vietnam Veteran population was 1,000,002 and 13, 800,000 falsely claimed to have served in-country.

“Isolated atrocities committed by American soldiers produced torrents of outrage from anti-war critics and the news media while Communist atrocities were so common that they received hardly any media mention at all. From 1957 to 1973, the National Liberation Front assassinated 36,725 Vietnamese and abducted another 58,499. The death squads focused on leaders at the village level and on anyone who improved the lives of the peasants such as medical personnel, social workers, and school teachers. (Nixon Presidential Papers.)

“Common myths about Vietnam:
“Myth: Common belief is that most Vietnam veterans were drafted.
“Fact: Two-thirds of the men who served in Vietnam were volunteers. Approximately 70 percent of those killed in Vietnam were volunteers.
“Myth: The media have reported that suicides among Vietnam veterans range from 50,000 to 100,000 — six to 11 times the non-Vietnam veteran population.

“Fact: Mortality studies show that 9,000 is a better estimate. The CDC Vietnam Experience Study Mortality Assessment showed that during the first five years after discharge, deaths from suicide were 1.7 times more likely among Vietnam veterans than non-Vietnam veterans. After that initial post-service period, Vietnam veterans were no more likely to die from suicide than non-Vietnam veterans. In fact, after the five-year post-service period, the rate of suicides is less in the Vietnam veterans’ group.

“Myth: Common belief is that a disproportionate number of blacks were killed in the Vietnam War.

“Fact: Eighty-six percent of the men who died in Vietnam were Caucasians, 12.5 percent were black, 1.2 percent were other races. Black fatalities in Southeast Asia were proportional to the number of blacks in the U.S. population at the time and slightly lower than the proportion of blacks in the Army at the close of the war.

“Myth: Common belief is that the war was fought largely by the poor and uneducated.

“Fact: Servicemen who went to Vietnam from well-to-do areas had a slightly elevated risk of dying because they were more likely to be pilots or infantry officers. Vietnam veterans were the best educated forces our nation had ever sent into combat; 79 percent had a high school education or better.

“Myth: The common belief is the average age of an infantryman fighting in Vietnam was 19.

“Fact: The average age of 11B MOS personnel KIA in Vietnam was 22.5. Assuming KIAs accurately represented age groups serving in Vietnam, the average age of an infantryman (MOS 11B) serving in Vietnam should actually be 22. None of the enlisted grades have an average age of less than 20. The average man who fought in World War II was 26 years of age.

“Myth: The common belief is that the fighting in Vietnam was not as intense as in World War II.

“Fact: The average infantryman in the South Pacific during World War II saw about 40 days of combat in four years. The average infantryman in Vietnam saw about 240 days of combat in one year, thanks to the mobility of the helicopter. One out of every 10 Americans who served in Vietnam was a casualty.

“Myth: The United States lost the war in Vietnam.

“Fact: The American military was not defeated in Vietnam. The American military did not lose a battle of any consequence. From a military standpoint, it was almost an unprecedented performance.

“Bui Tin, a colonel on the general staff of North Vietnam, and the man who accepted the surrender of South Vietnam on April 10, 1975, was recently interviewed in The Wall Street Journal. ‘If Johnson had granted Westmoreland’s request to enter Laos and block the Ho Chi Minh trail, Hanoi could not have won the war.’ On McNamara’s bizarre policy of ‘graduated response’ bombing, Bui Tin said, ‘It didn’t worry us; we had plenty of time to prepare alternative routes and facilities.’

“On the effectiveness of Westmoreland’s strategy he said, ‘We were losing base areas, control of the rural population. And our main forces were being pushed out to the borders of South Vietnam.’ Of the crucial Tet Offensive he said, ‘Our losses were staggering. If American forces had not begun to withdraw under Nixon, they would have punished us severely … we suffered badly in 1969 and 1970 as it was.’

“The American people have never had any idea of just how seriously the enemy was mauled. Here are the approximate figures for some main offensives (from ‘Vietnam in Military Statistics,’ a major history of the Vietnam War by Michael Clodfelter).

“1968 — The Tet Offensive: 1,800 U.S. KIA; 2,800 South Vietnam KIA; 45,000 Communist forces KIA.

“1969 — 9,400 U.S. KIA; 21,900 South Vietnam KIA; 157,000 Communist forces KIA.

“1970 (includes Cambodian Incursion) — 4,200 U.S. KIA; 23,300 South Vietnam KIA; 103,600 Communist forces KIA.

“‘From Unheralded Victory,’ by Mark Woodruff: ‘During 1966, the North Vietnamese Army suffered approximately 93,000 killed. In 1967, the casualty figure climbed to over 145,000. By the early 1970s, General Giap was publicly admitting that his forces had suffered at least 500,000 killed during the war. The actual number of Communist soldiers killed during the war is 1,100,000.’ Compare this to approximately 58,000 American forces killed. That is a 19 to 1 ratio. If this was a victory, General Giap must have been dreaming about King Pyrrhus after his two ‘victories’ over the Romans. ‘How many ‘victories’ like this can I afford?’
“Archuleta County lost 30 men in four major wars. Nine were killed in World War I, 17 in World War II, one in Korea, and three in Vietnam.

“These were young men, cut down in the prime of life, and it is our duty to insure they are never forgotten. The American Legion is proud to recognize them on this special day.”


Education

Matt Aragon to serve as next school board president

By Ben Bagwell
Staff Writer

Matt Aragon was elected president of the Archuleta School District 50 Jt. board Tuesday during the annual reorganization meeting.

Aragon, a lifelong resident of the local community and a graduate of Pagosa Springs High School, has been a school board member for two and a half years.

Prior to the vote for Aragon, which was unanimous, Sandy Caves, who had served board vice president, announced she would not be a candidate for president. She was then selected to serve again as vice president.

Linda Lattin was elected board secretary-treasurer.

In a ceremony, Joanne Irons was installed as a new board member. She takes the place of Mike Haynes as representative from District 2. Haynes opted not to run for re-election. He had served most recently as board president.
Besides Irons, Ken Fox and Caves were installed for new terms as school board members. Caves and Fox ran unopposed for re-election.

A reception was held, honoring the service Haynes performed during his time on the board. District Superintendent Mark DeVoti presented a memorial plaque to the outgoing president.

Haynes praised Caves for her spirit of teamwork in not seeking the board presidency.

John Kennedy, the district technology director, introduced a new Web site for the local school district.

The school board met in executive session to discuss an evaluation of the superintendent’s work.

Pagosa Springs Mayor Ross Aragon called on school officials to back the town’s initiative for an anti-litter campaign in the area. DeVoti praised the mayor’s initiative and said he was sure the district would back the anti-litter program.

The district will observe a Thanksgiving holiday Nov. 21-25.


Applicants sought for Washington D.C. youth tour

 La Plata Electric Association and The National Rural Electric Cooperative Association are seeking high school juniors to participate in the National Rural Electric Youth Tour to Washington D.C., June 12-19.

The application deadline is Dec. 14.

Students sponsored by LPEA will join students from LPEA’s sister electric co-ops across Colorado for this once-in-a-lifetime trip that includes an intimate look at the nation’s capitol.

During the trip, the federal government will be explored from the inside, and those issues surrounding the electric industry, as well as current concerns, will be discussed with national and state representatives. Social activities are also part of the adventure.

The opportunity to participate is open to all area high school juniors who receive their electric power from La Plata Electric Association. Caleb Flint and Adam LeFevre from Bayfield High School, and Kailee Kenyon from Pagosa Springs High attended the 2007 tour.

“Our goal is to sponsor one student from each area high school — Durango, Bayfield, Pagosa Springs and Ignacio,” said Jeannie Bennett, who, with Suzy Bynum, coordinates the Youth Tour for LPEA. “Last year, however, we accepted two students from Bayfield and one from Pagosa simply because Durango and Ignacio students did not apply. We hope that’s not the case this year.”

To enter, students are asked to complete the application and submit it to LPEA, along with an essay of 500 words or less on any aspect of the electric energy industry. Participants will be selected based on their essays, which will be reviewed by an independent committee. Those selected will be notified over the holidays.

“This truly is an amazing program that La Plata Electric and NRECA offer to our area youth,” said Bennett. “I wish I would have had this opportunity to visit Washington, D.C. for free when I was in high school. If parents are concerned about supervision or security, we encourage them to give us a call and we can review the procedures. Plenty of adults accompany the kids on the trip.”

Applications are available from the LPEA Web site, www.lpea.coop, from the high school counselor or at the LPEA Pagosa Springs office. 

For further information or questions, contact Jeannie Bennett, (970)382-3505, jbennett@lpea.coop; or Suzy Bynum, (970)382-3506, sbynum@lpea.coop.


ACT seeks teachers for summer program

ACT is looking for outstanding secondary school teachers to participate in a summer program designed to help develop and evaluate ACT’s newest educational program — Quality Core.

ACT’s Visiting Teacher Program seeks four eligible teachers from middle school, junior high or high school in the areas of science, mathematics, social studies, and language arts. Minority teachers are especially encouraged to apply.

Started in 1995, the Visiting Teacher Program brings teachers from across the United States to ACT’s national headquarters in Iowa City, Iowa. The program gives practicing teachers an opportunity to use their classroom expertise and experience to review, evaluate, and develop English, math, science and social studies teacher resources and instructional support materials. 

Participating teachers will work collaboratively with ACT staff to gain practical knowledge and skills in educational measurement that will help them in their own classrooms and provide them with hands-on experience in developing and reviewing multiple-choice and constructed-response test items. 

The six-week program begins June 16 and continues through July 25. Teachers will receive a stipend of $5,500 and the cost of round-trip transportation. ACT will secure and partially subsidize housing for the visiting teachers.

Charissa Saenz, an English teacher from Canutillo, Texas, participated in the program during the summer of 2007. 

“My experience (with ACT) was strengthened by the various workshops, training, and observations in different departments at ACT,” she said. “I feel that as a teacher, I gained quite a bit of helpful information to take back to my students and fellow teachers,” Saenz said.

To apply, teachers must submit a completed application available at ACT’s website:  www.act.org/path/secondary/visit.html . Teachers will also need to send a current resume and two letters of recommendation from persons familiar with their professional background. Application materials can be sent to:

Visiting Teacher Program (32)
Elementary and Secondary School Programs
ACT National Office
P.O. Box 168
Iowa City, IA 52243-0168

Applications can also be faxed to (319) 341-2335. The deadline for applications is Dec. 28. Decisions will be made and applicants notified by Feb. 15. 

For further information, e-mail visiting.teachers@act.org or call (319) 337-1645.

ACT, best known for its college admissions exam, is an independent, not-for-profit organization that provides more than a hundred assessment, research, information, and program management services in the areas of education and workforce development. Each year, ACT serves millions of people in high schools, colleges, professional associations, businesses, and government agencies — nationally and internationally. Though designed to meet a wide variety of needs, all ACT programs and services have one guiding purpose — to help people achieve education and career goals.


Legals

In the District Court, Archuleta County, Colorado, Division 1
Case No. 2006-cv-159
Wyndham Vacation Ownership, Inc., f/k/a Fairfield Resorts, Inc., f/k/a Fairfield Communities, Inc., a Delaware corporation, Plaintiff v. David Brown and Teal Landing Vacation Property Owners Association, Inc., Defendant
The people of the State of Colorado to the above-named Defendant David Brown:
You are hereby summoned and required to appear and defend against the claims of the complaint filed with the court in this action, by filing with the clerk of this court an answer or other response. You are required to file your answer or other response within 30 days after the service of this summons upon you. Service of this summons shall be complete on the day of the last publication. A copy of the complaint may be obtained from the clerk of the court.
If you fail to file your answer or other response to the complaint in writing within 30 days of the date of the last publication, judgment by default may be rendered against you by the court for the relief demanded in the complaint without further notice.
This is an action affecting the following described property:
A 154,000/62,896,000 undivided fee simple absolute interest in Building(s) 17 as tenants in common of said building of Teal Landing Condominium per plat (“Plat”) recorded or to be recorded in the Office of the County Clerk and Recorder in and for Archuleta County, Colorado (“Recorder’s Office), subject to Declaration of Condominium for Teal Landing Condominium, and amendments and supplements thereto, recorded under Reception No. 20007580 in the Recorder’s Office, which undivided interest has been assigned 154,000 Points symbolic of said property interest. Subject to the previous assignment of use, possessory and occupancy rights to Fairshare Vacation Owners Association’s Trust, recorded in the Recorder’s Office, pursuant to the terms and conditions of the Amended and Restated Fairshare Vacation Plan Use Management Trust Agreement recorded under Reception No. 98003095 in the Recorder’s Office, and amendments and supplements thereto (the “Property”).
S. Kent Karber, Attorney for Plaintiff
Holland & Hart, LLP, 90 S. Cascade, Ste. 1000, Colorado Springs, Colorado 80903, 719-475-642.
Published October 25, November 1, 8, 15 and 22, 2007 The Pagosa Springs SUN.
_______________________
District Court, Archuleta County, State of Colorado
Court Address: PO Box 148, 449 San Juan St.
Pagosa Springs, CO 81147
EAGLES LOFT PROPERTY OWNERS ASSOCIATION, INC
Plaintiffs,
vs.
JAMES A. TYNAN, JR., DONNA D. TYNAN and All Unknown Persons Who Claim Any Interests In The Subject Matter Of This Action
Defendants
Attorney for Plaintiffs:
Larry W. Holthus
PO Box 1737
Pagosa Springs, CO 81147
Phone Number: (970) 264-4196
FAX Number: (970) 264-4197
Atty. Reg. #: 10535
Case Number: 07 CV 85
AMENDED SUMMONS BY PUBLICATION
THE PEOPLE OF THE STATE OF COLORADO TO THE ABOVE NAMED DEFENDANTS:
You are hereby summoned and required to appear and defend against the claims of the Complaint filed with the Court in this action, by filing with the Clerk of this Court, an Answer or other response. You are required to file your Answer or other response within thirty (30) days after the date of the last publication. A copy of the Complaint may be obtained from the Clerk of the Court.
If you fail to file your Answer or other response to the Complaint in writing within thirty (30) days after the date of the last publication, judgment by default may be rendered against you by the Court for the relief demanded in the Complaint without further notice.
This is an action to quiet title to:
Unit Number 49 Building Number 49, Unit Week Number 01, in “EAGLE’S LOFT – Phase IV, as Reception No. 137941 and in accordance with and as limited and defined by the Declaration of Individual and/or Interval Ownership, recorded under Reception Number 117700 in Book 200 at Page 834 et seq and amendments and supplements thereto in the Office of the County Clerk and Recorder in and for Archuleta County, Colorado.
Dated this 1st day of November, 2007.
Larry W. Holthus
Published November 8, 15, 22, 29 and December 6, 2007 in The Pagosa Springs SUN.
_______________________
District Court, Archuleta County, State of Colorado
Court Address: PO Box 148, 449 San Juan St.
Pagosa Springs, CO 81147
MOUNTAIN MEADOWS PROPERTY OWNERS ASSOCIATION, INC.
Plaintiff,
vs.
RESORT PROPERTIES, LLC and All Unknown Persons Who Claim Any Interest in the Subject Matter of This Action,
Defendants.
Attorney for Plaintiffs:
Larry W. Holthus
PO Box 1737
Pagosa Springs, CO 81147
Phone Number: (970) 264-4196
FAX Number: (970) 264-4197
Atty. Reg. #: 10535
Case Number: 07 CV 131
SUMMONS BY PUBLICATION
THE PEOPLE OF THE STATE OF COLORADO TO THE ABOVE NAMED DEFENDANTS:
You are hereby summoned and required to appear and defend against the claims of the Complaint filed with the Court in this action, by filing with the Clerk of this Court, an Answer or other response. You are required to file your Answer or other response within thirty (30) days after the date of the last publication. A copy of the Complaint may be obtained from the Clerk of the Court.
If you fail to file your Answer or other response to the Complaint in writing within thirty (30) days after the date of the last publication, judgment by default may be rendered against you by the Court for the relief demanded in the Complaint without further notice.
This is an action to quiet title to:
One (1) Winter Unit Week, as said Week is defined in the Declaration of Interval Ownership for Mountain Meadows recorded under Reception No. 137132, and amendments and supplements thereto and as identified in Unit Numbers 7601 through 7608 of “Mountain Meadows Townhomes-Phase Two” filed for record under Reception No. 20209311. Together with a right of ingress and egress over the existing road to Lakeside Drive.
Dated this 28th day of September, 2007.
Larry W. Holthus
Published October 18, 25, November 1, 8 and 15, 2007 in The Pagosa Springs SUN.
_______________________
DENVER DISTRICT COURT, DENVER COUNTY, STATE OF COLORADO
Court Address: 1437 Bannock Street, Denver, CO 80202
Petitioner/Judgment Creditor: Marylee Griffiths
v.
Respondent/Judgment Debtor: Clive Leslie Griffiths
Attorney for the Plaintiff:
Name: Mark J. Berumen
Address: Berumen Law Firm, P.C.
1450 S. Havana Street
Suite 412
Aurora, Colorado 80012
Phone: (303) 751-2128
FAX: (303) 845-5358
E-Mail: markberumen@berumenlaw.com
Atty. Reg.: 29628
Case Number: 06CV10647
NOTICE OF SHERIFF’S SALE AND NOTICE OF RIGHTS OF REDEMPTION
TO: CLIVE L. GRIFFITHS
By virtue of a certain Writ of Execution issued out of the Office of the Clerk of the District Court in and for the County of Denver, State of Colorado, and to me directed, whereby I am commanded to make the sum of fifty-three thousand, nine-hundred and forty-four dollars ($53,944.00) for the amount of the judgment obtained against you in the District Court of Johnson County, Kansas (Case No. 01CV4904) out of the lands, tenements, goods and chattels of the said real property, I have levied on the following real property:
1325 Lakeside Drive
Pagosa Springs, Colorado 81147
Described as Lot 17, Eaton Pagosa Estates Subdivision
According to the plat filed October 31, 1998 as
Reception No. 1000000107
Therefore, according to such command, I shall sell to the highest bidder at public auction, all of the right, title and interest of the above named real property on the 14th day of December, 2007, at the hour of 10:30 O’clock a.m. at the Office of the Archuleta County Sheriff’s Office located at 449 San Juan Street, Pagosa Springs, Colorado under the provisions of Colorado Revised Statute 38-39-102, as amended. YOU HAVE CERTAIN RIGHTS AS SET FORTH THEREIN.
Dated this 13th day of November, 2007.
John J. Weiss
Ex-officio Sheriff of the County of Archuleta
Published November 15, 22, 29 and December 6, 2007 in The Pagosa Springs SUN.

_______________________
District Court, Archuleta County, State of Colorado
Court Address: PO Box 148, 449 San Juan St.
Pagosa Springs, CO 81147
MOUNTAIN MEADOWS PROPERTY OWNERS ASSOCIATION, INC.
Plaintiff,
vs.
J. GLENN YOUNG, ELEANOR M. YOUNG and All Unknown Persons Who Claim Any Interest in the Subject Matter of This Action,
Defendants.
Attorney for Plaintiffs:
Larry W. Holthus
PO Box 1737
Pagosa Springs, CO 81147
Phone Number: (970) 264-4196
FAX Number: (970) 264-4197
Atty. Reg. #: 10535
Case Number: 07 CV 114
SUMMONS BY PUBLICATION
THE PEOPLE OF THE STATE OF COLORADO TO THE ABOVE NAMED DEFENDANTS:
You are hereby summoned and required to appear and defend against the claims of the Complaint filed with the Court in this action, by filing with the Clerk of this Court, an Answer or other response. You are required to file your Answer or other response within thirty (30) days after the date of the last publication. A copy of the Complaint may be obtained from the Clerk of the Court.
If you fail to file your Answer or other response to the Complaint in writing within thirty (30) days after the date of the last publication, judgment by default may be rendered against you by the Court for the relief demanded in the Complaint without further notice.
This is an action to quiet title to:
Building Number 1, Unit Week: One (1) White Week Phase One of Mountain Meadows Resort, Parcel 4 in the Second Replat of South Village Lake, according to the plat filed for record August 3, 1982 under Reception No. 137131 and as amended by Affidavit of Correction recorded January 18, 1983 and duly recorded in the Office of the Clerk and Recorder of Archuleta County, Colorado, as subject to Master Lease recorded October 20, 1983 in Book 204 at Page 67 providing, in part, for periods in which individual lessees may be permitted to reserve and occupy an available Unit therein each year in accordance with said Lease and individual Vacation Leases, and to the use and enjoyment of the common Areas therein provided and amendments and supplements thereto, in the Office of the County Clerk and Recorder in and for Archuleta County, Colorado.
Dated this 28th day of September, 2007.
Larry W. Holthus
Published October 18, 25, November 1, 8 and 15, 2007 in The Pagosa Springs SUN.
_______________________
Notice of Public Trustee’s Sale No. 37-2007
File # 07-4161; Loan # 0039391768
This Notice of Public Trustee Sale concerns the following described Deed of Trust:
Original Grantor: Cindy L. Archuleta
Original Beneficiary: Mortgage Electronic Registration Systems, Inc., acting solely as nominee for Lehman Brothers Bank, FSB
Current Owner of Evidence of Debt: Aurora Loan Services, LLC
Date of Deed of Trust: October 24, 2006
Recording Date of Deed of Trust: October 25, 2006
Recording information: Reception No. 20610407
County of Recording: Archuleta
Original Principal Amount: $215,000.00
Current Unpaid Principal: $215,000.00
The property being foreclosed is all of the property described as follows:
Lot 10 of Block 3 in Aspen Springs Subdivision No. 3, according to the Plat thereof filed for record July 6, 1971 as Reception No. 74567, being an amendment of the Plat of Aspen Springs Ranch Subdivision No. 3, filed on April 9, 1971 as Reception No. 74284.
alleged property address: 230 River Run Drive, Pagosa Springs, CO 81147
Notice is hereby given:
1) the current owner of the Evidence of Debt secured by the above described Deed of Trust has filed written Notice of Election and Demand for Sale;
2) on November 29, 2007, at 10:00 at the front door of the Archuleta County Public Trustee’s Office located at 449 San Juan Street, Pagosa Springs, CO, I will sell at public auction to the highest bidder, the real property described above, and all interest of said Grantor, the heirs and assigns of said Grantor, for the purpose of paying the indebtedness provided in said note and deed of trust, attorneys fees, and the expenses of sale, and will deliver to the purchaser a certificate of purchase, as provided by law; and
3) the lien being foreclosed may not be a first lien.
/s/ Lois Baker
Archuleta County Public Trustee
By: /s/ Vicky Rudock, Deputy
Toni M. N. Dale, Holly L.Decker, Dale & Decker, LLC, 2 Inverness Drive East, Suite 105, Englewood, CO 80112; Ph#720-493-4600; Fx#866-303-8293, Email: mail@daledecker.com
Pursuant to the Fair Debt Collection Practices, this law firm is deemed to be a debt collector attempting to collect a debt and any information obtained will be used for that purpose.
Published October 18, 25, November 1, 8 and 15, 2007 in The Pagosa Springs SUN.
_______________________
District Court, Archuleta County, State of Colorado
Court Address PO Box 148, 449 San Juan St.
Pagosa Springs, CO 81147
EAGLE’S LOFT PROPERTY OWNERS ASSOCIATION, INC.
Plaintiffs,
vs.
KEITH R. ROBERTS, LINDA L. ROBERTS and All Unknown Persons Who Claim Any Interest In The Subject Matter Of This Action,
Defendant.
Attorney for Plaintiffs:
Larry W. Holthus
PO Box 1737
Pagosa Springs, CO 81147
Phone Number: (970) 264-4196
FAX Number: (970) 264-4197
Atty. Reg. #: 10535
Case Number: 07 CV 103
SUMMONS BY PUBLICATION
THE PEOPLE OF THE STATE OF COLORADO TO THE ABOVE NAMED DEFENDANTS:
You are hereby summoned and required to appear and defend against the claims of the Complaint filed with the Court in this action, by filing with the Clerk of this Court, an Answer or other response. You are required to file your Answer or other response within thirty (30) days after the date of the last publication. A copy of the Complaint may be obtained from the Clerk of the Court.
If you fail to file your Answer or other response to the Complaint in writing within thirty (30) days after the date of the last publication, judgment by default may be rendered against you by the Court for the relief demanded in the Complaint without further notice.
This is an action to quiet title to:
Unit Number 37 Building Number 37, Unit Week Number 24, in “EAGLE’S LOFT – Phase Three, as Reception No. 130203 and in accordance with and as limited and defined by the Declaration of Individual and/or Interval Ownership, recorded under Reception Number 117700 in Book 200 at Page 834 et seq and amendments and supplements thereto in the Office of the County Clerk and Recorder in and for Archuleta County, Colorado.
Dated this 28th day of September, 2007.
Larry W. Holthus
Published October 18, 25, November 1, 8 and 15, 2007 in The Pagosa Springs SUN.
_______________________
District Court, Archuleta County, State of Colorado
Court Address: PO Box 148, 449 San Juan St.
Pagosa Springs, CO 81147
EAGLE’S LOFT PROPERTY OWNERS ASSOCIATION, INC.
Plaintiffs,
vs.
MELISSA RUTH WADE and All Unknown Persons Who Claim Any Interests In The Subject Matter Of This Action
Defendants
Attorney for Plaintiffs:
Larry W. Holthus
PO Box 1737
Pagosa Springs, CO 81147
Phone Number: (970) 264-4196
FAX Number: (970) 264-4197
Atty. Reg. #: 10535
Case Number: 07 CV 98
SUMMONS BY PUBLICATION
THE PEOPLE OF THE STATE OF COLORADO TO THE ABOVE NAMED DEFENDANTS:
You are hereby summoned and required to appear and defend against the claims of the Complaint filed with the Court in this action, by filing with the Clerk of this Court, an Answer or other response. You are required to file your Answer or other response within thirty (30) days after the date of the last publication. A copy of the Complaint may be obtained from the Clerk of the Court.
If you fail to file your Answer or other response to the Complaint in writing within thirty (30) days after the date of the last publication, judgment by default may be rendered against you by the Court for the relief demanded in the Complaint without further notice.
This is an action to quiet title to:
Unit Number 17, Building Number 17, Unit Week Number 19, in “EAGLE’S LOFT - PHASE Three”, as Reception No. 130203 and in accordance with and as limited and defined by the Declaration of Individual and/or Interval Ownership, recorded under Reception Number 117700 in Book 200 at Page 834 et seq and amendments and supplements thereto in the Office of the County Clerk and Recorder in and for Archuleta County, Colorado.
Dated this 18th day of October, 2007.
/s/ Larry W. Holthus
Published November 1, 8, 15, 22 and 29, 2007 in The Pagosa Springs SUN.
_______________________
IN THE MATTER OF THE PETITION OF:
Adult May D. Medina-Marinelarena
FOR A CHANGE OF NAME TO: May D. Medina
ORDER FOR PUBLICATION FOR CHANGE OF NAME
The Court having read and considered the Petition for Change of Name of an Adult finds:
That the statements made in the Petition satisfy the statutory requirements.
That the desired change of name is proper and not detrimental to the interests of any other person.
That the Petitioner has submitted the documentation required in §13-15-101(b), C.R.S. from the fingerprint-based criminal history record check or has provided appropriate certified copies of any dispositions that would constitute a felony conviction in this state or any other state or under federal law.
The Court orders the following publication for a change of name:
1. Name of May D. Medina-Marinelarena is required to be changed to May D. Medina.
2. Pursuant to statue, public notice of this change of name shall be published three times in a legal newspaper published in this county. This publication is to be made within 21 days of the date of this Order.
3. Proper proof of publication shall be filed with the Court upon final publication to receive a Final Decree for a Change of Name.
Date: 10/27/07 /s/ James S. Denvir
Judge
Published November 8, 15 and 22, 2007 in The Pagosa Springs SUN.

_______________________
District Court, Archuleta County, State of Colorado
Court Address: PO Box 148, 449 San Juan St.
Pagosa Springs, CO 81147
EAGLE’S LOFT PROPERTY OWNERS ASSOCIATION, INC.
Plaintiffs,
vs.
GARY O. WATSON, CHRYS R. WATSON and All Unknown Persons Who Claim Any Interests In The Subject Matter Of This Action
Defendants
Attorney for Plaintiffs:
Larry W. Holthus
PO Box 1737
Pagosa Springs, CO 81147
Phone Number: (970) 264-4196
FAX Number: (970) 264-4197
Atty. Reg. #: 10535
Case Number: 07 CV 142
SUMMONS BY PUBLICATION
THE PEOPLE OF THE STATE OF COLORADO TO THE ABOVE NAMED DEFENDANTS:
You are hereby summoned and required to appear and defend against the claims of the Complaint filed with the Court in this action, by filing with the Clerk of this Court, an Answer or other response. You are required to file your Answer or other response within thirty (30) days after the date of the last publication. A copy of the Complaint may be obtained from the Clerk of the Court.
If you fail to file your Answer or other response to the Complaint in writing within thirty (30) days after the date of the last publication, judgment by default may be rendered against you by the Court for the relief demanded in the Complaint without further notice.
This is an action to quiet title to:
Unit Number 47, Building Number 47, Unit Week Number 35, in “EAGLE’S LOFT - PHASE IV”, as Reception No. 137941 and in accordance with and as limited and defined by the Declaration of Individual and/or Interval Ownership, recorded under Reception Number 117700 in Book 200 at Page 834 et seq and amendments and supplements thereto in the Office of the County Clerk and Recorder in and for Archuleta County, Colorado.
Dated this 18th day of October, 2007.
/s/ Larry W. Holthus
Published November 1, 8, 15, 22 and 29, 2007 in The Pagosa Springs SUN.
_______________________
NOTICE OF PUBLIC TRUSTEE’S SALE
No. 39-2007
To Whom It May Concern: This Notice is given with regard to the following described Deed of Trust:
Original Grantor of Deed of Trust (Borrower) Kendrick Burson, a Single Man or Woman
Original Beneficiary of Deed of Trust National Recreational Properties of Pagosa Springs, LLC, a Colorado limited liability company
Current owner of the evidence of debt secured by the Deed of Trust National Recreational Properties of Pagosa Springs, LLC
Date of Deed of Trust 5/28/2005
Recording Date of Deed of Trust 5/2/2006
County of Recording ARCHULETA
Recording Information of Deed of Trust Reception No. 20603914
YOU ARE HEREBY NOTIFIED that the legal owner of an evidence of debt, the original principal of which was $29,350.00 dollars and which is secured by the Deed of Trust described above, has filed written election and demand for sale as provided in said Deed of Trust. The outstanding principal balance due and owning upon the evidence of debt secured by the above-described Deed of Trust being foreclosed is $28,408.86 as of October 26, 2007.
The following-described property is all of the property encumbered by said Deed of Trust:
Lot 229, Lake Hatcher Park, according to the plat thereof filed November 5, 1973, as Reception No. 78738, in the office of the Clerk and Recorder, Archuleta County, Colorado.
APN: 558336203047
also known by street and number as:
APN: 558336203047
277 Morrow Cir, Pagosa Springs, CO 81147
THE LIEN OF THE DEED OF TRUST TO BE FORECLOSED MAY NOT BE A FIRST LIEN.
THEREFORE, NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that I will, at 10:00 o’clock a.m., on the date of December 20, 2007 at the Hallway of the Archuleta County Courthouse, 449 San Juan Street, Pagosa Springs, Colorado, sell at public auction to the highest and best bidder for cash, the real property described above, and all interest of said Grantor, the heirs, successors and assigns of said Grantor, for the purpose of paying the indebtedness provided in said evidence of debt and Deed of Trust, attorney’s fees, and the expenses of sale, and will deliver to the purchaser a Certificate of Purchase, all as provided by law.
October 29, 2007 Lois Baker
Date Public Trustee of the County of ARCHULETA, COLORADO
By: /s/ Vicky Rudock
Deputy Public Trustee
Philip M. Kleinsmith
6035 Erin Park Drive, #203
Colorado Springs ,CO 80918
719-593-1970
THE LAW REQUIRES THAT WE INFORM YOU: WE ARE ATTEMPTING TO COLLECT A DEBT. ANY INFORMATION OBTAINED FROM YOU WILL BE USED FOR THAT PURPOSE.
File No.: PU/GLF/Burson 07-1966
Published November 8, 15, 22, 29 and December 6, 2007 in The Pagosa Springs SUN.
_______________________
NOTICE OF PUBLIC TRUSTEE SALE
Public Trustee No. 41-2007
To Whom It May Concern: This Notice is given with regard to the following described Deed of Trust:
Grantor (Borrower) JUDITH A. O’NEILL
Original Beneficiary: MORTGAGE ELECTRONIC REGISTRATION SYSTEMS, INC., ACTING SOLELY AS NOMINEE FOR LENDER, LENDERS DIRECT CAPITAL CORPORATION
Current Owner of the Evidence of Debt: CITIBANK N.A. AS TRUSTEE FOR THE MLMI TRUST SERIES 2006-HE5
Date of Deed of Trust: 7/7/2006
Recording Date of Deed of Trust: 7/7/2006
Original Principal Amount of Evidence of Debt: $199,920.00
Outstanding Principal Amount of Evidence of Debt as of the date hereof: $198,408.82
County of Recording: Archuleta
Reception No. of Recorded Deed of Trust: 20606466
Legal Description of Real Property:
LOT 13, BLOCK 7, PAGOSA IN THE PINES, ACCORDING TO THE PLAT THEREOF FILED MARCH 13, 1970, AS RECEPTION NOS. 73014 THROUGH 73027, IN THE OFFICE OF THE CLERK AND RECORDER, ARCHULETA COUNTY, COLORADO.
WHICH HAS THE ADDRESS OF: 244 MASTERS CIRCLE PAGOSA SPRINGS, CO 81147
THE PROPERTY DESCRIBED HEREIN IS ALL OF THE PROPERTY ENCUMBERED BY THE LIEN OF THE DEED OF TRUST.
THE LIEN FORECLOSED MAY NOT BE A FIRST LIEN.
CITIBANK N.A. AS TRUSTEE FOR THE MLMI TRUST SERIES 2006-HE5, the owner of the Evidence of Debt secured by the Deed of Trust described herein, has filed written election and demand for sale as provided by law and in said Deed of Trust.
THEREFORE, Notice Is Hereby Given that I will, at 10:00 a.m. on December 27, 2007, at at the front door of the Treasurer’s office in, the Archuleta County Courthouse, 449 San Juan Street, Pagosa Springs, CO, 81147, sell at public auction to the highest and best bidder for cash, the said real property and all interest of said Grantor(s), Grantor(s)’ heirs and assigns therein, for the purpose of paying the indebtedness provided in said Evidence of Debt secured by the Deed of Trust, plus attorney’s fees, the expenses of sale and other items allowed by law, and will deliver to the purchaser a Certificate of Purchase, all as provided by law.
LAW OFFICE OF MICHAEL P. MEDVED, P.C. IS ACTING AS A DEBT COLLECTOR AND IS ATTEMPTING TO COLLECT A DEBT. ANY INFORMATION PROVIDED WILL BE USED FOR THAT PURPOSE.
Dated: November 8, 2007
Lois Baker
ARCHULETA COUNTY PUBLIC TRUSTEE
By: /s/ Vicky Rudock, Deputy
Attorney: Law Office of Michael P.Medved, P.C., 355 Union Blvd., Suite 302, Lakewood, CO 80228, Telephone: 303-380-1291 Fax: (303)274-0159
Grantor/Borrower: JUDITH LAUE
Attorney File No. 07-914-06967 / Type of Loan: CONV
Published November 15, 22, 29, December 6 and 13, 2007 in The Pagosa Springs SUN.
_______________________
District Court, Archuleta County, State of Colorado
Court Address: PO Box 148, 449 San Juan St.
Pagosa Springs, CO 81147
EAGLE’S LOFT PROPERTY OWNERS ASSOCIATION, INC.
Plaintiffs,
vs.
JOHN RICHARD BROWN, JR., HELEN BROWN and All Unknown Persons Who Claim Any Interests In The Subject Matter Of This Action
Defendants
Attorney for Plaintiffs:
Larry W. Holthus
PO Box 1737
Pagosa Springs, CO 81147
Phone Number: (970) 264-4196
FAX Number: (970) 264-4197
Atty. Reg. #: 10535
Case Number: 0 CV 72
SHERIFF’S NOTICE OF SALE
Under a Judgment and Decree of Foreclosure entered October 29, 2007 in the above entitled action, I am ordered to sell the following property which is all of the property currently encumbered by the lien described in said Judgment and decree of Foreclosure:
Unit Number 38, Building Number 38 Unit Week Number 19, in “EAGLE’S LOFT “Phase Three” as Reception No. 130203 and in accordance with and as limited and defined by the Declaration of Individual and/or Interval Ownership, recorded under Reception Number 117700 in Book 200 at Page 834 et seq and amendments and supplements thereto in the Office of the County Clerk and Recorder in and for Archuleta County, Colorado.
The Plaintiff named above is the judgment creditor in this action and the current owner of the evidence of debt (the Judgment entered herein) secured by the property being sold; and as of October 1, 2007, the outstanding balance due and owing on such judgment is $3,825.00.
I shall offer for public sale to the highest bidder, for cash, at public auction all the right, title and interest of the Defendants in said property on December 14, 2007 at 10:00 a.m., at the Sheriff’s Office, 449 San Juan Street, Pagosa Springs, Colorado.
NOTE: THE LIEN BEING FORECLOSED MAY NOT BE A FIRST LIEN
John J. Weiss, Undersheriff
Archuleta County, Colorado
Published November 15, 22, 29, December 6 and 13, 2007 in The Pagosa Springs SUN.
_______________________
NOTICE TO CREDITORS
Estate of WILLIAM J. PRITCHARD, Deceased
Case No. 07 PR 39
All persons having claims against the above-named estate are required to present them to the personal representative or to the District Court of Archuleta County, Colorado, on or before March 13, 2008, or the claims may be forever barred.
TERRI LYNN PRITCHARD
186 Spring Ct.
Pagosa Springs, CO 81147
Published November 8, 15 and 22, 2007 in The Pagosa Springs SUN.

_______________________
NOTICE TO CREDITORS
Case No. 07-PR-029
Estate of ALFONSO F. ARCHULETA, Deceased. All persons having claims against the above-named estate are required to present them to the undersigned or to the District Court of ARCHULETA County, Colorado on or before March 7, 2008, or said claim(s) shall be forever barred. Co-Personal Representatives: Manuel Archuleta, P.O. Box 366, Pagosa Springs, CO 81147; Paulette Archuleta, 3353 Elizabeth St., Denver, CO 80205
Published November 8, 15 and 22, 2007 in The Pagosa Springs SUN.

_______________________
NOTICE OF PUBLIC TRUSTEE SALE
Public Trustee No. 40-2007
To Whom it may Concern: This Notice is given with regard to the following described Deed of Trust:
Grantor (Borrower): Kimberly Cox and Dale D Cox
Original Beneficiary: Alliance Funding, a Division of Superior Bank FSB
Current Owner of the Evidence of Debt: Beal Bank SSB
Date of Deed of Trust: May 16, 2001
Recording Date of Deed of Trust: May 21, 2001
Original Principal Amount of Evidence of Debt: $51,250.00
Outstanding Principal Amount of Evidence of Debt as of the date hereof: $49,553.60
County of Recording: Archuleta
Book and Page No. or Reception No. of Recorded Deed of Trust: at Reception No. 20104242
Legal Description of Real Property:
LOT 10, BLOCK 15, ASPEN SPRINGS SUBDIVISION NO. 4, ACCORDING TO THE PLAT THEREOF FILED AUGUST 20, 1971, AS RECEPTION NO. 74785, IN THE OFFICE OF THE CLERK AND RECORDER, ARCHULETA COUNTY, COLORADO.
WHICH HAS THE ADDRESS OF 230 Hurt Lane Pagosa Springs, CO 81147
THE PROPERTY DESCRIBED HEREIN IS ALL OF THE PROPERTY ENCUMBERED BY THE LIEN OF THE DEED OF TRUST.
THE LIEN FORECLOSED MAY NOT BE A FIRST LIEN.
Beal Bank SSB, the owner of the Evidence of Debt secured by the Deed of Trust described herein, has filed written election and demand for sale as provided by law and in said Deed of Trust.
THEREFORE, Notice is Hereby Given that I will, at 10:00 o’clock in the forenoon of December 27, 2007, at the front door of the Archuleta County Public Trustee’s Office, 449 San Juan Street, P O Box 790, Pagosa Springs, Colorado, sell at public auction to the highest and best bidder for cash, the said real property and all interest of the said Grantor(s), Grantor(s)’ heirs and assigns therein, for the purpose of paying the indebtedness provided in said Evidence of Debt secured by the Deed of Trust, plus attorneys’ fees, the expenses of sale and other items allowed by law, and will deliver to the purchaser a Certificate of Purchase, all as provided by law.
CASTLE MEINHOLD & STAWIARSKI, LLC IS ACTING AS A DEBT COLLECTOR AND IS ATTEMPTING TO COLLECT A DEBT. ANY INFORMATION PROVIDED WILL BE USED FOR THAT PURPOSE.
Dated: November 5, 2007
/s/ Lois Baker
Public Trustee in and for the County of
Archuleta, Colorado
/s/ Vicky Rudock, Deputy
Attorney:
Castle Meinhold & Stawiarski, LLC
Caren Jacobs Castle
999 18th Street, Suite 2201
Denver, CO 80202
(303) 865-1480
Published November 15, 22, 29, December 6 and 13, 2007 in The Pagosa Springs SUN.
_______________________
District Court, Archuleta County, State of Colorado
Court Address: PO Box 148, 449 San Juan St.
Pagosa Springs, CO 81147
EAGLE’S LOFT PROPERTY OWNERS ASSOCIATION, INC.
Plaintiffs,
vs.
BARBARA J. CHATMAN, SONJA J. CURRY and All Unknown Persons Who Claim Any Interests In The Subject Matter Of This Action
Defendants
Attorney for Plaintiffs:
Larry W. Holthus
PO Box 1737
Pagosa Springs, CO 81147
Phone Number: (970) 264-4196
FAX Number: (970) 264-4197
Atty. Reg. #: 10535
Case Number: 0 CV 71
SHERIFF’S NOTICE OF SALE
Under a Judgment and Decree of Foreclosure entered October 10, 2007 in the above entitled action, I am ordered to sell the following property which is all of the property currently encumbered by the lien described in said Judgment and decree of Foreclosure:
Unit Number 49, Building Number 49, Unit Week Number 24, in “EAGLE’S LOFT “Phase IV” as Reception No. 137941 and in accordance with and as limited and defined by the Declaration of Individual and/or Interval Ownership, recorded under Reception Number 117700 in Book 200 at Page 834 et seq and amendments and supplements thereto in the Office of the County Clerk and Recorder in and for Archuleta County, Colorado.
The Plaintiff named above is the judgment creditor in this action and the current owner of the evidence of debt (the Judgment entered herein) secured by the property being sold; and as of October 1, 2007, the outstanding balance due and owing on such judgment is $4,604.65.
I shall offer for public sale to the highest bidder, for cash, at public auction all the right, title and interest of the Defendants in said property on December 5, 2007 at 10:00 a.m., at the Sheriff’s Office, 449 San Juan Street, Pagosa Springs, Colorado.
NOTE: THE LIEN BEING FORECLOSED MAY NOT BE A FIRST LIEN
/s/ John J. Weiss
John J. Weiss, Undersheriff
Archuleta County, Colorado
Published October 25, November 1, 8, 15 and 22, 2007 in The Pagosa Springs SUN.
_______________________
District Court, Archuleta County, State of Colorado
Court Address: PO Box 148, 449 San Juan St.
Pagosa Springs, CO 81147
EAGLE’S LOFT PROPERTY OWNERS ASSOCIATION, INC.
Plaintiffs,
vs.
MARVIN BULLARD, KATHY A. BULLARD and All Unknown Persons Who Claim Any Interests In The Subject Matter Of This Action
Defendants
Attorney for Plaintiffs:
Larry W. Holthus
PO Box 1737
Pagosa Springs, CO 81147
Phone Number: (970) 264-4196
FAX Number: (970) 264-4197
Atty. Reg. #: 10535
Case Number: 0 CV 73
SHERIFF’S NOTICE OF SALE
Under a Judgment and Decree of Foreclosure entered October 29, 2007 in the above entitled action, I am ordered to sell the following property which is all of the property currently encumbered by the lien described in said Judgment and decree of Foreclosure:
Unit Number 14, Building Number 14 Unit Week Number 13, in “EAGLE’S LOFT “Phase Two” as Reception No. 122870 and in accordance with and as limited and defined by the Declaration of Individual and/or Interval Ownership, recorded under Reception Number 117700 in Book 200 at Page 834 et seq and amendments and supplements thereto in the Office of the County Clerk and Recorder in and for Archuleta County, Colorado.
The Plaintiff named above is the judgment creditor in this action and the current owner of the evidence of debt (the Judgment entered herein) secured by the property being sold; and as of October 1, 2007, the outstanding balance due and owing on such judgment is $2,638.00.
I shall offer for public sale to the highest bidder, for cash, at public auction all the right, title and interest of the Defendants in said property on December 14, 2007 at 10:00 a.m., at the Sheriff’s Office, 449 San Juan Street, Pagosa Springs, Colorado.
NOTE: THE LIEN BEING FORECLOSED MAY NOT BE A FIRST LIEN
John J. Weiss, Undersheriff
Archuleta County, Colorado
Published November 15, 22, 29, December 6 and 13, 2007 in The Pagosa Springs SUN.
_______________________
NOTICE OF PUBLIC TRUSTEE’S SALE
No. 38-2007
To Whom It May Concern: This Notice is given with regard to the following described Deed of Trust:
Grantor (Borrower) ELIZABETH LISA RIOS
Original Beneficiary: MORTGAGE ELECTRONIC REGISTRATION SYSTEMS, INC., ACTING SOLELY AS NOMINEE FOR LENDER, HOME LOAN FUNDING, INC.
Current Owner of Evidence of Debt: LASALLE BANK
Date of Deed of Trust: 1/12/2006
Recording Date of Deed of Trust: 1/13/2006
Original Principal Amount of Evidence of Debt: $432,250.00
Outstanding Principal Amount of Evidence of Debt as of the date hereof: $430,679.84
County of Recording: Archuleta
Reception No., of Recorded Deed of Trust: 20600610
Legal Description of Real Property:
LOT 433, LAKE FOREST ESTATES, ACCORDING TO THE PLAT THEREOF FILED FOR RECORD JUNE 4, 1973 AS RECEPTION NO. 77869, COUNTY OF ARCHULETA, STATE OF COLORADO.
WHICH HAS THE ADDRESS OF: 296 BEAVER CIR PAGOSA SPRINGS, CO 81147
THE PROPERTY DESCRIBED HEREIN IS ALL OF THE PROPERTY ENCUMBERED BY THE LIEN OF THE DEED OF TRUST.
THE LIEN FORECLOSED MAY NOT BE A FIRST LIEN.
LASALLE BANK, the owner of the Evidence of Debt secured by the Deed of Trust described herein, has filed written election and demand for sale as provided by law and in said Deed of Trust.
THEREFORE, Notice Is Hereby Given that I will, at 10:00 A.M., on December 6, 2007, at at the front door of the Treasurer’s office in, the Archuleta County Courthouse, 449 San Juan Street, Pagosa Springs, CO, 81147, sell at public auction to the highest and best bidder for cash, the said real property and all interest of said Grantor(s), Grantor(s)’ heirs, and assigns therein, for the purpose of paying the indebtedness provided in said Evidence of Debt secured by the Deed of Trust, plus attorneys’ fees, the expenses of sale and other items allowed by law, and will deliver to the purchaser a Certificate of Purchase, all as provided by law.
LAW OFFICE OF MICHAEL P. MEDVED, P.C. IS ACTING AS A DEBT COLLECTOR AND IS ATTEMPTING TO COLLECT A DEBT. ANY INFORMATION PROVIDED WILL BE USED FOR THAT PURPOSE.
Dated: October 11, 2007 Lois Baker
ARCHULETA COUNTY PUBLIC TRUSTEE
By: /s/ Vicky Rudock, Deputy
Attorney: Law Office of Michael P. Medved, P.C., 355 Union Blvd., Suite 302, Lakewood, CO 80228, Telephone: 303-380-1291 Fax: (303) 274-0159
Grantor/Borrower: ELIZABETH RIOS
Attorney File No. 07-915-06521 / Type of Loan: CONV
Published October 18, 25, November 1, 8 and 15, 2007 in The Pagosa Springs SUN.
_______________________
NOTICE OF PUBLIC TRUSTEE SALE
Public Trustee No. 42-2007
To Whom it may Concern: This Notice is given with regard to the following described Deed of Trust:
Grantor (Borrower): Gregory Oertel and Teresa Oertel
Original Beneficiary: Long Beach Mortgage Company
Current Owner of the Evidence of Debt: Citigroup Global Markets Realty Corp
Date of Deed of Trust: May 24, 2002
Recording Date of Deed of Trust: June 3, 2002
Original Principal Amount of Evidence of Debt: $89,250.00
Outstanding Principal Amount of Evidence of Debt as of the date hereof: $87,179.87
County of Recording: Archuleta
Book and Page No. or Reception No. of Recorded Deed of Trust: at Reception No. 20205001
Legal Description of Real Property:
LOTS 9 AND 10, BLOCK 10, ASPEN SPRINGS SUBDIVISION #2, ACCORDING TO THE AMENDED PLAT OF SAID SUBDIVISION FILED FOR RECORD IN THE OFFICE OF THE CLERK AND RECORDER IN AND FOR ARCHULETA COUNTY, COLORADO, UNDER RECEPTION NO. 74503, COUNTY OF ARCHULETA, STATE OF COLORADO.
WHICH HAS THE ADDRESS OF 1147 RACOON DRIVE Pagosa Springs, CO 81147
THE PROPERTY DESCRIBED HEREIN IS ALL OF THE PROPERTY ENCUMBERED BY THE LIEN OF THE DEED OF TRUST.
THE LIEN FORECLOSED MAY NOT BE A FIRST LIEN.
Citigroup Global Markets Realty Corp, the owner of the Evidence of Debt secured by the Deed of Trust described herein, has filed written election and demand for sale as provided by law and in said Deed of Trust.
THEREFORE, Notice is Hereby Given that I will, at 10:00 o’clock in the forenoon of December 27, 2007, at the front door of the Archuleta County Public Trustee’s Office, 449 San Juan Street, P O Box 790, Pagosa Springs, Colorado, sell at public auction to the highest and best bidder for cash, the said real property and all interest of the said Grantor(s), Grantor(s)’ heirs and assigns therein, for the purpose of paying the indebtedness provided in said Evidence of Debt secured by the Deed of Trust, plus attorneys’ fees, the expenses of sale and other items allowed by law, and will deliver to the purchaser a Certificate of Purchase, all as provided by law.
CASTLE MEINHOLD & STAWIARSKI, LLC IS ACTING AS A DEBT COLLECTOR AND IS ATTEMPTING TO COLLECT A DEBT. ANY INFORMATION PROVIDED WILL BE USED FOR THAT PURPOSE.
Dated: November 8, 2007
/s/ Lois Baker
Public Trustee in and for the County of
Archuleta, Colorado
/s/ Vicky Rudock, Deputy
Attorney:
Castle Meinhold & Stawiarski, LLC
Caren Jacobs Castle
999 18th Street, Suite 2201
Denver, CO 80202
(303) 865-1480
Published November 15, 22, 29, December 6 and 13, 2007 in The Pagosa Springs SUN.
_______________________
DISTRICT COURT, ARCHULETA COUNTY,
STATE OF COLORADO
Court Address: P.O.Box 148, 449 San Juan St.
Pagosa Springs, CO 81147
Petitioner/Judgment Creditor: DAVID K. MARTIN
v.
Respondent/Judgment Debtor:
CLIVE LESLIE GRIFFITHS
Attorney for the Plaintiff:
Name: Mark J. Berumen
Address: Berumen Law Firm, P.C.
1450 S. Havana Street
Suite 412
Aurora, Colorado 80012
Phone: (303) 751-2128
FAX: (303) 845-5358
E-Mail: markberumen@berumenlaw.com
Atty. Reg.: 29628
Case Number: 07CV118
NOTICE OF SHERIFF’S SALE AND NOTICE OF RIGHTS OF REDEMPTION
TO: CLIVE L. GRIFFITHS
By virtue of a certain Writ of Execution issued out of the Office of the Clerk of the District Court in and for the County of Archuleta, State of Colorado, and to me directed, whereby I am commanded to make the sum of thirty-three thousand, four hundred and fifty-six dollars and ninety-six cents ($33,456.96) for the amount of the judgment obtained against you in the District Court of Johnson County, Kansas out of the lands, tenements, goods and chattels of the said real property, I have levied on the following real property:
1325 Lakeside Drive
Pagosa Springs, Colorado 81147
Described as Lot 17, Eaton Pagosa Estates Subdivision
According to the plat filed October 31, 1998 as
Reception No. 1000000107
Therefore, according to such command, I shall sell to the highest bidder at public auction, all of the right, title and interest of the above named real property on the 14th day of December, 2007, at the hour of 10:30 O’clock a.m. at the Office of the Archuleta County Sheriff’s Office located at 449 San Juan Street, Pagosa Springs, Colorado under the provisions of Colorado Revised Statute 38-39-102, as amended. YOU HAVE CERTAIN RIGHTS AS SET FORTH THEREIN.
Dated this13th day of November, 2007.
John J. Weiss
Ex-officio Sheriff of the County of Archuleta
Published November 15, 22, 29 and December 6, 2007 in The Pagosa Springs SUN.

_______________________
District Court, Archuleta County, State of Colorado
Court Address: PO Box 148, 449 San Juan St.
Pagosa Springs, CO 81147
MOUNTAIN MEADOWS PROPERTY OWNERS ASSOCIATION, INC.
Plaintiffs,
vs.
AARON OTA and All Unknown Persons Who Claim Any Interests In The Subject Matter Of This Action
Defendants
Attorney for Plaintiffs:
Larry W. Holthus
PO Box 1737
Pagosa Springs, CO 81147
Phone Number: (970) 264-4196
FAX Number: (970) 264-4197
Atty. Reg. #: 10535
Case Number: 07 CV 109
SUMMONS BY PUBLICATION
THE PEOPLE OF THE STATE OF COLORADO TO THE ABOVE NAMED DEFENDANTS:
You are hereby summoned and required to appear and defend against the claims of the Complaint filed with the Court in this action, by filing with the Clerk of this Court, an Answer or other response. You are required to file your Answer or other response within thirty (30) days after the date of the last publication. A copy of the Complaint may be obtained from the Clerk of the Court.
If you fail to file your Answer or other response to the Complaint in writing within thirty (30) days after the date of the last publication, judgment by default may be rendered against you by the Court for the relief demanded in the Complaint without further notice.
This is an action to quiet title to:
Building Number 1, Unit Week: One (1) White Week Phase One of Mountain Meadows Resort, Parcel 4 in the Second Replat of South Village Lake, according to the plat filed for record August 3, 1982 under Reception No. 137131 and as amended by Affidavit of Correction recorded January 18, 1983 and duly recorded in the Office of the Clerk and Recorder of Archuleta County, Colorado, as subject to Master Lease recorded October 20, 1983 in Book 204 at Page 67 providing, in part, for periods in which individual lessees may be permitted to reserve and occupy an available Unit therein each year in accordance with said Lease and individual Vacation Leases, and to the use and enjoyment of the common Areas therein provided and amendments and supplements thereto, in the Office of the County Clerk and Recorder in and for Archuleta County, Colorado.
Dated this 16th day of October, 2007.
/s/ Larry W. Holthus
Larry W. Holthus
Published October 25, November 1, 8, 15 and 22, 2007 in The Pagosa Springs SUN.
_______________________
District Court, Archuleta County, State of Colorado
Court Address: PO Box 148, 449 San Juan St.
Pagosa Springs, CO 81147
EAGLE’S LOFT PROPERTY OWNERS ASSOCIATION, INC.
Plaintiffs,
vs.
ROBERT E. HUGHES, MARY K. HUGHES and All Unknown Persons Who Claim Any Interests In The Subject Matter Of This Action
Defendants
Attorney for Plaintiffs:
Larry W. Holthus
PO Box 1737
Pagosa Springs, CO 81147
Phone Number: (970) 264-4196
FAX Number: (970) 264-4197
Atty. Reg. #: 10535
Case Number: 07 CV 94
SHERIFF’S NOTICE OF SALE
Under a Judgment and Decree of Foreclosure entered October 29, 2007 in the above entitled action, I am ordered to sell the following property which is all of the property currently encumbered by the lien described in said Judgment and decree of Foreclosure:
Unit Number 31, Building Number 31 Unit Week Number 26, in “EAGLE’S LOFT “Phase Three” as Reception No. 130203 and in accordance with and as limited and defined by the Declaration of Individual and/or Interval Ownership, recorded under Reception Number 117700 in Book 200 at Page 834 et seq and amendments and supplements thereto in the Office of the County Clerk and Recorder in and for Archuleta County, Colorado.
The Plaintiff named above is the judgment creditor in this action and the current owner of the evidence of debt (the Judgment entered herein) secured by the property being sold; and as of October 1, 2007, the outstanding balance due and owing on such judgment is $1,736.00.
I shall offer for public sale to the highest bidder, for cash, at public auction all the right, title and interest of the Defendants in said property on December 14, 2007 at 10:00 a.m., at the Sheriff’s Office, 449 San Juan Street, Pagosa Springs, Colorado.
NOTE: THE LIEN BEING FORECLOSED MAY NOT BE A FIRST LIEN
John J. Weiss, Undersheriff
Archuleta County, Colorado
Published November 15, 22, 29, December 6 and 13, 2007 in The Pagosa Springs SUN.
_______________________
DISTRICT COURT, WATER DIVISION 7,
COLORADO
WATER RESUME
TO: ALL PERSONS INTERESTED IN WATER APPLICATIONS IN SAID WATER DIVISION NO. 7
Pursuant to C.R.S. 37-92-302, you are notified that the following is a resume of all water right applications filed in the Office of the Water Clerk during the month of October, 2007, for Archuleta County and Mineral County.
04CW97. DAVID J. BROWN AND KOINONIA, LLC, David J. Brown, Manager, c/o Bootjack Management Co., 12500 E. Hwy. 160, Pagosa Springs, CO 81147, (970) 264-7280. Brownstein Hyatt Farber Schreck, P.C. Attn. Wayne F. Forman, Esq. and John A. Helfrich, Esq., 410 17th Street, Suite 2200, Denver, Colorado 80202, Telephone: (303) 223-1100. SIXTH AMENDMENT TO APPLICATION FOR GROUND WATER RIGHTS, SURFACE WATER RIGHTS, TERMINATION OF PLAN FOR AUGMENTATION DECREED IN CASE NO. 83CW144, NEW PLAN FOR AUGMENTATION AND CORRECTION OF ERROR IN DECREE IN CASE NO. 80CW220, AND TO MAKE ABSOLUTE CONDITIONAL WATER RIGHTS in MINERAL AND ARCHULETA COUNTIES.
This Sixth Amendment to Application relates only to Sections B.1.e.(4), C.3.c., E.2.c.(1) and (2), E.2.e.(1) and (2), and E.2.f.(1) and (2) of the Fourth Amended Application and is for the purpose of clarifying claims and correcting errors in the Fourth Amended Application and correcting or changing if deemed necessary, errors in the points of diversion (“POD”) of the Canon Creek and Himes Ditches. All other provisions of the Fourth Amended Application remain unchanged. B. Section B.1.e.(4) of the Fourth Amended Application, stating the conditional uses of the Wolf Creek Village Well No. 1, is revised to read: “Use: Source water for Chipper’s Lake, stock watering and supplemental irrigation of 60 acres to be irrigated in the SE1⁄4 of Sec. 17, T.37N., R.1E., N.M.P.M. and 11 acres around Bootjack Lodge and Chipper’s Lake, as shown on Exhibit A1, in combination with the Dermody Pump.” C. Section C.3.c. of the Fourth Amended Application, regarding the fill rates for Chipper’s Lake, is revised to read: “Fill rate: 0.445 c.f.s. (200 g.p.m.), Conditional, via Wolf Creek Village Well #1 and/or 1.0 c.f.s. (450 g.p.m.) via Chipper’s Lake Pumping Station.” D. Sections E.2.c.(2) of the Fourth Amended Application, regarding the decreed location of the Canon Creek Ditch, are revised as follows: (1) Actual Location of POD: a point in the SW1⁄4 of the NW1⁄4 of Section 17, T.37N., R.1E., N.M.P.M., 191 feet from the west section line and 2,434 feet from the north section line. UTM coordinates: 331,315 meters East and 4,145,915 meters North, NAD83. See Exhibit A-4. (a) Error in Decree in Civil Action No. 165: The POD for Canon Creek Ditch was misdescribed in the original decree in Civil Action No. 165, Archuleta County, August 17, 1904 as being located at “a point North 31°14’ West, 1,845 feet from N1⁄4 corner of Section 20, T.37N., R.1E., N.M.P.M.” See Exhibit A-4. (b) Request to Correct or Change the Location of POD: Applicants request the Court to correct, or if it deems necessary to change, the decreed POD in Civil Action No. 165 to conform to the actual POD described above. The POD has always existed at the described location and the requested relief will not change the source or use of Canon Creek water right. E. Sections E.2.e.(1) and (2) of the Fourth Amended Application, regarding the decreed location of the Himes Ditch, are revised as follows: (1) Source: Mill Creek (n/k/a Himes Creek), tributary to the West Fork. (2) Actual Location of POD: a point in the SE1⁄4 of the SE1⁄4 of Section 19, T.37N., R.1E., N.M.P.M., 77 feet from the east section line and 784 feet from the south section line. UTM coordinates: 331,213 meters East and 4,143,679 meters North, NAD83. See Exhibit A-4. (a) Error in Decree in Decretal Order: The POD for Himes Ditch was misdescribed in the original decree, Decretal Order, November 13, 1912, Archuleta County as taking its water “from Mill Creek, in Mineral County, Colorado, the POD is located on the North bank of said Mill Creek at a point North 70 degrees 7 minutes West 2,897 feet from the SW corner of Section 20, T.37N., R.1E., N.M.P.M.” See Exhibit A-4. (b) Request to Correct or Change Location of POD: Applicants request the Court to correct or, if deemed necessary to change, the decreed POD in the Decretal Order to the actual location described above. The POD has always existed at the described location and the requested relief will not change the source or use of the Himes Ditch. F. Sections E.2.f.(1) and (2) of the Fourth Amended Application, regarding the decreed location of the Himes Ditch, Teal Enlargement, are revised as follows: (1) Source: Mill Creek (n/k/a Himes Creek), tributary to the West Fork. (2) Actual Location of POD: a point in the SE1⁄4 of the SE1⁄4 of Section 19, T.37N., R.1E., N.M.P.M., 77 feet from the east section line and 784 feet from the south section line. UTM coordinates: 331,213 meters East and 4,143,679 meters North, NAD83. See Exhibit A-4. (a) Error in Decree in Civil Action No. 73-308D: The POD for Himes Ditch, Teal Enlargement was misdescribed in the original decree, Civil Action No. 73-308D, District Court in and for Archuleta County, December 19, 1968 as taking its water “from the North bank of Mill Creek, a tributary of the San Juan River, at a point whence the SW corner of Section 20, T.37N., R.1E., N.M.P.M., bears South 70°07’, East, 2,897 feet.” See Exhibit A-4. (b) Request to Correct or Change Location of POD: Applicants request the Court to correct or, if deemed necessary to change, the decreed POD in Civil Action No. 73-308D to the actual location described above. The POD has always existed at the described location and the requested relief will not change the source or use of the Himes Ditch, Teal Enlargement. (7 pages)
07CW70 Robert P. & Valerie T. Goodman, PO Box 68, Pagosa Springs, CO 81147: Goodman Lake Ditch; Archuleta County; SE1/4NW1/4, Section 9, T32N, R2E, NMPM; 1342 feet from North and 1700 feet from West; Northing 4099591, Easting 0344791; Navajo River; Date of initiation of appropriation, October 11, 2005; Appropriation initiated by formation of intent to appropriate for fish and recreation; Date applied to beneficial use, July 15, 2006; .5 cfs Absolute; Application for Water Rights (Surface) (4 pages)
YOU ARE HEREBY NOTIFIED THAT YOU HAVE until the last day of December, 2007, to file with the Water Clerk, in quadruplicate, a verified Statement of Opposition, setting forth facts as to why a certain application should not be granted or why it should be granted only in part or on certain conditions. A copy of such Statement of Opposition must also be served upon the applicant or the applicant’s attorney and an affidavit or certificate of such service shall be filed with the Water Clerk, as prescribed by Rule 5, CRCP. (Filing fee: $90.00; Forms are available through the Office of the Water Clerk or on the Judicial website at www.courts.state.co.us; Danene M. Etz, Clerk of the Water Court, 1060 E. 2nd Ave., Room 106, Durango, CO 81301-5157; 970-247-2304, Ext. 6181)
Published: before November 30, 2007 Original signature on file
Danene Etz, Water Clerk
Published November 15, 2007 in The Pagosa Springs SUN.

_______________________

Pagosa Life

Russ Hill Memorial Bazaar is open at CUMC

By Ben Bagwell
Staff Writer

The Russ Hill Memorial Bazaar, a massive holiday fund-raising event sponsored by the Community United Methodist Church, began Nov 14.

About 100 people from the community are usually involved and do their work in several areas: as greens suppliers, wreath makers, wreath decorators and centerpiece designers, in sales, orders, shipping and cooking, and by cooking lunch for as many as 25 participants, every day the operation is open.

The bazaar raises more than $10,000 a year to aid church and community needs. Sixty percent of the proceeds go to the community.

Many people purchase wreaths that are then shipped to recipients living in locations across the nation.

The bazaar is named for Russ Hill, who died in 1973 at the age of 40. This is the 42nd year of the bazaar, which runs for several weeks.
The first year the bazaar was held, there were 25 wreaths sold. More recently, wreath sales have totaled more than 700.

This year’s bazaar ends Wednesday, Dec. 5. The only days on which the bazaar is closed will be Nov. 22-23.

The cutoff date for orders is Wednesday, Nov. 28.

People who made orders last year have already been contacted about this year’s bazaar. Everyone is invited to visit the bazaar at the church on Lewis Street, and to purchase their special holiday items.


It’s time to learn to tango

By Deb Aspen
Special to The PREVIEW

In Step Dance Associates will sponsor a series of four Argentine Tango classes beginning soon after Thanksgiving. 

Learn this elegant and romantic dance that originated in Buenos Aires in the early 1900s.  It has been featured in movies such as “The Tango Lesson,” “Scent of A Woman” and “Assassination Tango.”

This beginner’s class will cover the basic steps of Argentine Tango using traditional music.  Instructor Les Linton has been dancing/teaching the tango for 12 years and will be partnered by Deb Aspen.  No experience is required, and both singles or couples are welcome.  It’s also a great opportunity for intermediate students to brush up on their technique.

The classes will be scheduled 7-8:30 p.m. Tuesdays, Nov. 27 and Dec. 4, 11 and 18.  There will be a minimal fee of $20per person which includes: practice sessions on Sundays, Dec. 2, 9 and 16 from 3-4 p.m. and two Tango CDs.  No pre-registration is necessary, but please come 10 minutes early to get signed in.  All sessions will meet at the PLPLA Clubhouse, 230 Port Ave.

Wear comfortable clothing, and shoes that do not leave black marks or mud.  It is also recommended that the ladies do not wear long skirts. 

For reservations or more information, call Les at 731-2628 or Deb at 731-3338. 


Larry Elginer directs Pagosa Springs Community Choir

By Matthew Lowell Brunson
Special to The PREVIEW

The Pagosa Springs Community Choir is counting down the days in anticipation of the annual Christmas concert, appropriately titled “Christmas is Coming.”

The concerts this year will be under the direction of Larry Elginer and accompanied by Venita Burch. The concerts will take place in the high school auditorium, Nov. 29 and Dec. 1 at 7 p.m., and Dec. 2 at 4 p.m. 

As always, the concerts are free to the public as the choir’s Christmas gift to you.  Donations are gratefully excepted.

Larry Elginer has pursued his passion and dream of music for over 40 years. Graduating with a B.A. and M.A. in music education from Northern Colorado University, he got his first teaching job in Hilmar, Calif. There, he taught all vocal and instrumental music programs in the elementary, junior high and senior high schools.

Later, Larry moved to Simi Valley, Calif., where he spent the next 35 years directing junior high and high school bands, orchestras, jazz bands, and street and field marching bands.  He took many ensembles to district festivals throughout the United States, Canada and Mexico, earning superior ratings more often than not.

Being the hard worker Larry is, he also directed the United Methodist Choir in Simi Valley for seven years.  In his spare time, Larry also was able to play with many bands and combos, using his trumpet and voice. This included working with musicians in film and playing in studios.

Larry and his wife, Clyda, moved to Pagosa Springs in June of 2003. He has been a bright light on the Pagosa stage through his work with the Community Choir, and organizations like ECA and Music Boosters, to name a few.  It is a great honor to have him as our director, and to have his vast experience to mold and shape us into the most accomplished choir a small town has ever seen.

Come and join us Nov. 29, Dec 1 and 2, see one of the greatest directors in action, and hear the fruits of his labor. You won’t be disappointed.


Community Center News

Free, live trees available for Festival

By Mercy E. Korsgren
PREVIEW Columnist

From all of us here at the center, we would like to take this opportunity to thank all individuals, businesses and organizations that support us and donate generously to our programs and special events, as well as all our volunteers who willingly work many hours helping us provide good and wholesome activities for the benefit of all.

Of course, many thanks too to all individuals and groups for patronizing and using the community center. We are very happy to see you all use the center for all kinds of gatherings. After all, this is your center.

Kudos to the eighth-graders, their parents and teachers for a great breakfast for our veterans and their families. I heard that this was the biggest crowd ever.

I talked to several veterans and they really appreciate this kindness and recognition.

Thank you, eighth-graders, parent and teacher especially Mr. Scott White.

Congratulations to Lauren Walkup for winning the grand prize at the Immaculate Heart of Mary Fashion show fund-raising event here last week. Lauren won the free trip to New York for two, which includes airfare and accommodation.

Just like the others among the 300-plus attendees, I was hoping to win this trip, so I could get away for the holiday. But it wasn’t my lucky day. Oh well, everyone had a great time.

It was so beautiful to see members of the community from different churches and groups and so many individuals in one room supporting this Catholic fund-raising event. This is one of the many reasons why I love Pagosa — there are no barriers when it comes to helping others.

What a great event. I saw lots of smiles, heard lots of laughter and experienced joy and solidarity.

Festival of Trees
There are free trees available for the event. If you need a tree, call me

What are you waiting for? Time is running out. Submit your entry form now. No more excuses; there are free, live trees waiting to be decorated.

There has been some confusion about the kind of trees used for this event. Both artificial and live trees are acceptable. We prefer artificial trees, because they don’t need care and are easier to handle for delivery.

We need Christmas items for the silent auction. Please consider donating even just one piece. It may be what others are looking for.

We have received several items already and we know more are coming, including two giant “bamboo parol (pah-role)” or star lanterns.

The star lantern is the symbol of Christmas in the Philippines, representing the guiding light, the star of Bethlehem. It emits warmth unparalleled among holiday adornments and is unique to the Philippines. 

Also, I will make several of my famous flan to be auctioned off at this event. This dessert is very popular in the Philippines during this holiday. What fitting items to have for our theme this year, “Christmas Around the World.”

Money raised will help defray the cost of hosting the event, and the remainder will be donated to the new hospital’s children’s playroom.

Save these dates and times: Nov. 26-27, 10 a.m.-9 p.m., to decorate the trees; Nov. 28-30, for the public display of decorated trees at 10 a.m.-6 p.m. on Nov. 28-29 and 10 a.m.-1 p.m. on Nov. 30. The party and auction will be Friday, Nov. 30, from 6-9 p.m. The silent auction starts immediately and at 8:08 p.m. auctioneer Bill Nobles will auction the decorated trees — the highlight of the event.

Do not miss this fun and dazzling evening. There will be holiday music by The Professor, John Graves, and Wildflower Catering will provide sumptuous and delicious hors d’oeuvres.

Ticket cost for the evening party and auction is $15 per person, and tickets will be available at Goodman’s, Higher Grounds Coffee, the Chamber of Commerce and here at the center.

This is a tradition that we started last year. Christmas in Pagosa is a spectacular holiday experience, and the festival adds to the many holiday activities happening in town. The festival provides fun, glamour, excitement and joy of the season to celebrants of all ages. And most of all, it is an opportunity that allows our local non-profit organizations to raise money. We sponsor the event to help other non-profits and provide happiness to needy families during the Christmas season.

We invite individuals and businesses to sponsor a tree. Sponsoring a tree includes providing the tree (or see me for free live trees), the ornaments and decorating the tree. Decorated trees will be on display at the community center for the public to see and enjoy. In addition, the people get to vote for the “People Choice” award. Then, trees are auctioned off and the money goes to a non-profit organization of the sponsor’s choice.

All non-profit organizations are encouraged to seek sponsors.

Entry forms are available at the community center and there is no entry cost to participate.

For more information call Nancy, 731-3427; Janis, 264-3010; or me, at 264-4152, Ext. 22.

Gingerbread making contest
The community center and the Pagosa Candy Co. are co-sponsoring this fun holiday activity for our youngsters, ages 6 to 16, here at the center on Saturday, Nov. 24, 3-5 p.m. Participants, 14 years and under, must be accompanied by an adult, who may help create the gingerbread house. No dropoffs will be allowed.

Make your own gingerbread house and win fabulous prizes. The judges will select the first, second and third prize winners. Prizes to be announced later.

The first 20 signups will be entitled to a free kit, two kits per family. Additional kits (after 20 have signed up) and additional candies and ornaments will be available for purchase at the Pagosa Candy Co.

So, call now to take advantage of the free kit, or call later to find out that you have to pay for your child’s kit.

This is a service that the community center is providing for our young ones during this holiday season.

Call the center, 264-4152 or the Pagosa Candy Co., 264-9079, to sign up. If you signs up and change your mind, call us so that we can accommodate others.

Breakfast with Santa
The morning after the Festival of Trees another fund-raising event will take place here at the center, put together by our local United Way volunteers and generously underwritten by an anonymous donor.

Breakfast with Santa will take place from 9 to 11 a.m., Saturday, Dec. 1, with all the decorated trees still in place. This will be a magical morning for children in our community, since there will be lots of holiday activities and music.

Admission is $15 per person and tickets are available at the Chamber of Commerce or by contacting Stacia Kemp, United Way executive director, 759-9676 or staciak@unitedway-swco.org. Seating is limited and ticket sales will close at 5 p.m. Monday, Nov. 26.

According to Stacia, “Mrs. Santa will be around to hostess this special holiday gathering amidst the splendor of the trees and festive decor. Photo opportunities and a special appearance by “you-know-who” will make memories for children and their parents, grandparents, or other special persons who accompany them.”

Proceeds from the event will support local organizations selected to receive funding from this year’s local United Way campaign. These agencies include: Archuleta County Victims Assistance Program, Archuleta County Education Center, Big Brothers Big Sisters, Boy Scouts, Habitat for Humanity of Archuleta County, Housing Solutions of the Southwest, Pagosa Outreach Connection, Red Cross, Seeds of Learning, Senior Services, Smilemakers Dental Program, Southwest Conservation Corps, Southwest CO Mental Health Services and Southwest Safehouse.

For more information, call Stacia.

Bar D Wranglers concert
Yes, they Bar D Wranglers are coming back for another fun and spectacular holiday music performance, including jokes and stories for the whole family. The concert will take place 7-9 p.m. Dec. 1.

Tickets are $12 and $6 for children under 10, and may be purchased here at the center. The doors will open at 6:30.

For more information, call the center at 264-4152, or Gary Cook, 749-2572.

New Year’s Eve dance
Too Little O2, a popular band from Silverton, will provide a wide variety of dance music Dec. 31, 8:30-12:30 a.m.

If anyone has ideas to make this party more fun and exciting, call me, 264-4152. Watch this column for more information.

Scrapbooking class
Here’s what Melissa has to share regarding the group.

“The Scrapbook class had a full house this past Saturday. There were members working on scrapbook pages, Christmas cards and various other projects. Stacey Lewis demonstrated the Cricut Die cutting machine and it was a big hit with the members. Anything to make crafting easier and faster definitely works.

“Allison Wylie brought the latest goodies from Creative Memories. Everything from tools and albums to complete packages with everything color coordinated. Allison also spoiled the members with some really cute gifts. She always has really nice giveaways.”

The next meeting will be held 10 a.m.-3 p.m. Saturday, Dec. 8.

For more information, call the center at 264-4152, or Melissa A. Bailey, after 4:30 p.m., at 731-1574.

Duplicate bridge for all
The group meets every Friday from 12:30-4 p.m. in the East Room.

Call Stan at 731-2217, if you plan to play.

Line dancing
I haven’t heard from Gerry since last week. She and her husband, Dick, are still vacationing in New Zealand.

In Gerry’s absence, Peggy Carrai and Beverly Chester are covering for her, and the dancing continues. Thank you, ladies.

Square dancing, contra dancing
I really appreciate it when program leaders send in an update or news about the group, like the following, which came from Lorna Fox, the square and contra dancing queen.

“Another great evening of square dancing last week. I heard so many comments that it is coming all together. Most of the new terms are making sense and we can now do some simple dances.

“We will have another ‘refresher class’ on Tuesday, Nov. 20, at 6:15 p.m. followed by our regular lesson with Louis Norton from 7-9 p.m. Please remember that square dance lessons are progressive, building upon the steps we have learned the previous week.

“Two of the new terms we have learned sound similar but have very different movements.

“Dosado has us advancing and passing right shoulders, and without turning, each dancer moves to the right, passing in back of the other dancer, then moving backwards, each passes left shoulders returning to the starting position.

“Do Paso tells us to do a left arm turn (180 degrees) with our partner, releasing armholds, then moving toward your corner, do a right arm turn (180 degrees), release armholds, and return to your partner for a courtesy turn to face the center.

“Happy dancing to you all!”

Make sure you remember the following dates for these free programs, sponsored by the community center:
• Square dancing — Nov. 20, Dec. 11.
• Contra dancing — Dec. 4 and 18
There will be no class Nov. 27. The gym won’t be available, due to preparations for the Festival of Trees event.

For more information, call Lorna at 731-5525.

Yoga
I am glad to see that this group continues to provide this healthful activity. Everyone is welcome to join this group led by Diana Baird and Addie Greer every Tuesday, 10-11:30 a.m. Bring a mat. The session is free.

Weight Watchers
This group meets here every Wednesday, 5 to 6 p.m.

Call the center, 264-4152, or Nancy Strait, 731-3427 for more information.

Hoopsters
I noticed this last week that this group is playing basketball with new members participating. When they don’t have the right number of players, they just pass and shoot the ball, with a little bit of running. The group’s main purpose is to have fun exercise twice a week to improve their health and provide wellness.

Larry handed this note to me about his group.
“Regardless of whether you played for UCLA, Kentucky or whoever — or whether you have no experience at all — come and play half court with us. The running and the camaraderie are second to none; not counting the laughs.”

Join Larry and other guys in this free program every Tuesday and Thursday morning, 8-9 a.m. We have facilities here for those who need a shower after the exercise.

Call the center, 264-4152, or Larry at 731-3984 or 264-1024, for more information.

Dan’s group
Dan Aupperle is back with his group of guys who play basketball once a week, 12:15 to 1:15 p.m. Check the Activities section in this column to see when the group is playing, or call Dan at 264-2235.

New programs needed
We are looking for new programs at the center. If you are one of the many individuals who wish to share talents and/or professional experience, call me.

All programs at the center are offered to the community free, thanks to the volunteers who donate their time and talent for the benefit of all.

Lost and found
Call the center if you’re missing something and think that you may have left it here. It is sad that people leave things here and they don’t even call or check with us. We have been donating items left here and not claimed after a month to the thrift store.

A place to gather
The center’s hours are 8 a.m.-5 p.m. Monday-Friday; and 10 a.m.-4 p.m. Saturday.

Book your holiday gatherings and events now. We have a variety of reasonably priced rooms to meet your space needs — for 50, 80 or for 500 people. The center has tables and chairs, portable stage and dance floor, audio visual equipment and PA system. A catering kitchen is also available, if needed. Call 264-4152 or e-mail us at communitycenter@centurytel.net

Activities
Today, Nov. 15 — Hoopsters, 8-9 a.m.; watercolor club meeting, 10 a.m.-3:30 p.m.; rec center meeting, 6-8:30 p.m.; Chimney Rock interpretive program meeting, 6-8 p.m.; Taking Our County Back meeting, 7-9 p.m.
Friday, Nov. 16 — Colo. Dept. of Education meeting, 8 a.m.-3 p.m.; Senior Walk, 11:15-11:35 a.m.; Dan and friends basketball, noon-1:15 p.m.; Duplicate bridge for all, 12:30-4 p.m.; Bridge 4 Fun, 12:30-4 p.m.; high school basketball practice, 3:30-5 p.m.; high school cross country awards night, 6-8 p.m.; birthday party, 8-10 p.m.
Saturday, Nov. 17 — Echo Canyon ranch HOA meeting, 4-7 p.m.
Sunday, Nov. 18 — Grace Evangelical Free Church, 10 a.m.-noon; Church of Christ, 10 a.m.–noon; High Roads Baptist Church, 6–8 p.m.; Wyndham Activities meeting, 6-8 p.m.
Monday, Nov. 19 — Line dancing, 9-11:30 a.m.; Senior Walk, 11:15-11:35 a.m.; high school basketball practice, 3:30-5 p.m.; card making class, 4-6 p.m.; youth basketball, 5-8 p.m.;
Tuesday, Nov. 20 — Hoopsters, 8-9 a.m.; seniors beginning computing, 10 a.m.-noon; Senior Walk, 11:15-11:35 a.m.; yoga, 10-11:30 a.m.; high school basketball practice, 3:30-5 p.m.; Tourism Council meeting, 4-6 p.m.; square dancing, 6:15-9 p.m.
Wednesday, Nov. 21 — Seniors dance for health, 10-11:30 a.m.; high school basketball practice, 3:30-5 p.m.; youth basketball 5-8 p.m.; Weight Watchers, 5-6 p.m.;
Thursday, Nov. 22 — Happy Thanksgiving. Center is closed today and tomorrow.


Sisson Library Giving Tree — donate a book to a child

By Mable Barber
Special to the PREVIEW

Our Giving Tree is up at the Sisson Library, so come by and donate a book to a child or young adult.

We know it is not even Thanksgiving, however, we want to give everyone plenty of time to bring their donations and still have time to combine the gifts with the Christmas packages put together by Operation Helping Hand.

This program was initiated last Christmas season and was very successful. Your contribution and sponsorship of a book or money for purchase a book for a child who may not otherwise own one, can be an important factor in the literacy of that child.

When given a book, a child is receiving a world of possibilities. Come to Sisson Library to sponsor an ornament from the “Giving Tree.”

After-school programs at the library have room for many more children. Homework help is being offered Monday through Wednesday until 5 p.m. Thursdays will now be for elementary students only, from 3:30-5: p.m. There is a change in the Friday Fun Activities: for intermediate age children the time will be 1:30- 3 p.m.; for junior high, it is 3:30-5.; for high school students it is 5:30-7. Youth Chess is on Fridays at 1:30, for all school-age children.

Come and join in the fun, exciting, and sometimes weird activities. Don’t forget the Story Club for preschool and kindergarten children at 10:30 a.m. on Wednesdays.

Call the library with any questions, 264-2208.


Centerpoint community Thanksgiving dinner Sunday

Centerpoint Church is hosting its annual community Thanksgiving dinner at 5 p.m. Sunday, Nov. 18.

Guests will enjoy a special evening of entertainment, and a home-cooked Thanksgiving meal with all of the traditional trimmings.

Childcare is available and there is absolutely no charge for the meal.

Senior Pastor Dan Sanders said, “The Centerpoint family is pleased to be able to provide a free meal for our community. There are many people who are not able to spend this holiday with their families; we are inviting people to become a part of ours.”

Centerpoint Church is located at 2750 Cornerstone Drive in Aspen Village.

Anyone who knows for sure that they are coming is encouraged to call the church office at 731-2205 to make a reservation.


Mountain View Homemakers meeting features handbell program

By Natalie Tyson
Special to The PREVIEW

Mountain View Homemakers Club met at Community United Methodist Church Thursday, Nov. 8, for their monthly meeting and a fascinating handbell program.

Lynn Constan, director of Quodlibet Handbell Choir of the Community United Methodist Church, presented the program, and two of the church ringers, Berkey Branch and Raymond Taylor, joined her in handbell ringing.

Constan and Branch showed how to create a bell tree by stringing the handles together, then, using mallets on the bells, gave a stimulating and outstanding performance of “Come, Thou Long Expected Jesus.” (This number can be heard by the public at the Pagosa Springs Community Choir performances Nov. 29, and Dec. 1 and 2.)

Special guests for the presentation were students from the Seventh Day Adventist School and their school director, Kathy Goley. Constan and Goley work weekly with the children’s hand chime choir, which they organized in September. For their public debut, six students rang “Jesus Loves Me” on the chimes while three others sang. Goley, who rings with the CUMC Quodlibet Choir, accompanied the children on the piano.

The program ended with audience participation when Homemaker members enjoyed the opportunity to ring handbell chords to “Silent Night.”

During the business meeting, led by Frances Wholf, president, members of Homemakers reviewed local agencies and organizations needing financial donations. Philanthropic thoughts, needs and allocation of available funds were apportioned and approved by the members who were present.

The December meeting and gift exchange will be held at the home of Margaret Rouke. Watch the PREVIEW Calendar for details.


Pagosa Lakes News

Ana Maia Ramos — from Brazil to Pagosa

By Ming Steen
SUN Columnist

For the past 16 years, our Pagosa Springs Rotary Club has sponsored incoming foreign exchange students. They’ve come from Norway, Italy, France, Australia, Belgium, Sweden, Ukraine, Denmark, New Zealand and now, Brazil (for the second time).

Pagosa Springs Rotary has sponsored, in addition, “outbound” youth exchange students from Pagosa Springs High School. Starting in 1994, Pagosa students have participated in this international exchange in Sweden, Australia, Turkey, India, New Zealand, France and Denmark.

The “outbound” program has both a one-year exchange and a month-long summer exchange.

Rotary Youth Exchange is a club-to-club program which promotes peace through better understanding via the exchange of high school students who are hosted by Rotary clubs and families. The program aims to enable students to acquire knowledge of life in their host community and to promote the general interest and good will of international exchange.

Annually, over 7,500 young people participate in exchanges supported by Rotary clubs in 80 nations. Youth exchange continues to grow and it is regarded as one of Rotary’s most popular and enduring programs, standing as a perfect example of what the organization is about: elevating the human condition by promoting friendship and understanding among people of all nations and cultures.

Ana Maia Ramos from Brazil arrived in Pagosa in August. She is being hosted by the Meekins — Sue, Bryan, and their daughter, Casey. Ana’s adjustment to living in Pagosa has been greatly eased by her host family’s patience, love and inclusiveness. Thank you for welcoming Ana into your home.

During Ana’s year in Pagosa, she will be hosted by four families; each for a duration of three months. This weekend, Ana will leave the Meekins to move in with the Dales — Darla, Eddie, and their two children, Preston and Sarah. The Scotts — Lisa, Bob, and their three children, Dean, Spence and Diana, will be the third host family. The last and final host family for Ana will be the Millers — Sabra, Tim, and their son and daughter, Ben and Andie. Most of these host families have opened their homes to a number of exchange students. That they return to host more exchange students speaks to their generosity and love of people. As for the exchange student, she/he benefits from meeting and getting to know not only one great family, but four great families (and not one is like another).

Ana is the younger of two children — her one brother is 20 years old and in college. Her dad is a doctor and her mom has a bookstore. Her hometown of Sáo José do Rio Preto is located in the state of Sáo Paulo, four hours from the city of Sáo Paulo.

My interview with Ana follows:

Why did you decide to be an exchange student?

“Actually, I don’t know why … I’ve always wanted to be an exchange student. I think it’s really interesting to live away from home; you can learn how to make things right without your parents’ help, and also you can learn a new culture and people.”

What kind of application process was involved for this program?

“I’ve been preparing since 2005. It was a long application process. I had to answer a lot of questions and I did few exams to make sure that everything was okay.”

Tell us about your school in Brazil.

“My school is totally different; we start at 7 a.m., we have six different classes per day and we are done at 12:30 p.m. so I can have lunch at home. And in the afternoon I can practice sports, study or things like that. At night, on weekends, I usually go to clubs.”

What are the biggest differences between teenagers back home and here in Pagosa?

“I think I can say that the differences are in the culture because in Brazil we can go out later and we have clubs for all ages. But teenagers are the same no matter where.”

What have you found here in Pagosa that you did not expect or that surprised you?

“At first I was surprised with everything because it was like I was in another world being so far from home. I was afraid thinking how people will treat me and if I will like my host families. I’m glad that everything is going pretty well and the people here are so kind.”

When people back home advised you on what to expect in the U.S.A., what Americans were like, how you should behave, etc., etc., what was their advice?

“They said for me to be always expecting the worst, so I will never be disappointed. Everyone thinks that Americans are cold toward everybody, but I’m glad that here in Pagosa things are different. The people are hospitable and very nice.”

What are your future plans for study and work?

“That’s a difficult one. I have plans to go to college as soon as I get back to Brazil, but I am not sure about what I want to do — maybe law or something related to advertising.”

What do you and your host sister, Casey, like to do together?

“Casey is a sophomore and she is the best host sister ever. We didn’t have a lot of time to hang out because of the volleyball season, but we are always together having fun.” (Casey is a setter on the JV volleyball team and she is also a swing for the varsity team where she played two full games with the older girls.)

What are your favorite foods that your American host family has served you?

“Sue, my host mom’s Mexican food is the best. I especially like her tacos and salad. I think it is weird but I really like bear meat.”

Have you gone on any outings or trips with your host family? Where did you go? What did you do? Was it fun and interesting?

“I went to Durango for shopping. I went to Bayfield, Farmington, Centauri and Denver to watch volleyball and football games. It was pretty cool. And we have gone out for lunch or dinner a lot of times. The times I had with the Meekins was awesome, and I just have to thank them for everything, always.”

We are glad that Ana is here to share a year with us. At the local Rotary Club’s weekly meetings, Ana keeps the Rotarians “in the loop” during Ana’s Awesome Adventures — a block of time set aside for her to talk. Ana will also be invited into the homes of Rotarians to share a meal, thereby providing opportunities for her to meet and be met (by more Pagosans).

If you would like to look into the organization behind Rotary International Youth Exchange, you can contact Jann Pitcher (731-4065), who will be happy to help in your desire to embark on this adventure of a lifetime.

Or, if you would like to host an exchange student for three months, speak with Jann. She has been closely involved with the Rotary Youth Exchange program since 1991 when she arranged for the club’s first exchange student (from Norway) to live in Pagosa and attend school for a year. In short, Jann and her husband, Todd, are “parents” to many international students.


FOCUS

Education, hopes and dreams:
Jack and Charla Ellis

By Rachel Watkins
Staff Writer

To be educated is to act to fulfill one’s greatest abilities — and everyone holds hopes and dreams. Education is a means to the end of realizing those hopes and dreams

As human beings, we thrive on hope, pursuing things worth living for. What purpose would life hold without meaning or hope? And education is the source of much of that meaning.

Education first comes from within: through struggle, effort and thought. Through literature and art, one learns of the pain of others and this, in turn, destroys our pride, our arrogance, and our indifference toward others. It makes us aware of our frailty, our humanity, and gradually increases a realization of our ignorance. Education costs money, but so does ignorance.

And education is something that must, necessarily, be aided by the efforts of others.

After teaching for 32 years at Pagosa Springs High School — educating a generation and being those “others” to students — Jack and Charla Ellis retired the spring of this year.

In the fall of 1975, Jack and Charla trekked to the then small town of Pagosa Springs to teach, and later raise their two daughters, Sarah and Mikiko.

“I hadn’t planned on teaching, but I fell into something that I fell in love with,” said Charla, who taught art.

“Without a question, I loved not only seeing a student learn a skill, but seeing them struggle and then find something about themselves, about humanity, and growth as a person. Art digs deep inside; a student could find a different representation of who they are through their work.”

Jack Ellis, who taught in the English department, said, “In the middle of my master’s, I decided to take a few education classes. I had student taught for two years at a college when my eyes were opened to how important writing was. A lot of professors complained that students didn’t know their mother tongue. One of the math professors complained the most.

“I saw so many things in literature — philosophy, theology, history — all of these things moved me. As did seeing students moved by literature, and being a part of the process, and seeing it work in their lives and writing. I graded so many papers while teaching, but I was truly moved by the papers. Ultimately, all this made me a better person.”

Education is not mere knowledge or skills — the mind can temporarily store useless facts for a test. Rather, true education is an integration of facts with meaning for life.

“The important thing is loving what you teach, not knowing, but loving,” stated Jack, “Understanding is the beginning of love. Change is life. There are opportunities there, but it’s about hope and faith.

“The hardest part about teaching was seeing students who minimized the importance of literature and school. For those who lose hope and faith, it was trying to make it meaningful. Every day, the kids in classroom were the number-one priority. You try to reach them all, but sometimes you can only try. Four or twenty years later, seeing a student who found their way, and being proud of who they became — that’s why I taught.”

Nancy Esterbrook, an English teacher for the past 23 years, said, “Jack was absolutely dedicated to making students write and think. I always considered him my mentor; we talked about everything from students, to philosophy, to politics, even to baseball. Charla took art far beyond raw talent, to demanding skills and techniques to enhance individual expression. My relationship with her has been the most important in my life.

“Both Jack and Charla cared so much about students. They saw students as human beings and address their needs. They were extremely passionate about their subject and teaching. They always asked, ‘What am I going to do that is meaningful?’ Passion like that doesn’t just die out.”

In 1975, two job openings appeared for an English and Art teacher. Although, the art opening required experience in pottery, and the English opening required experience in theater. A perfect fit. Generally, the school district didn’t hire couples, but an exception was made.

“We realize how lucky we were,” said Charla, “But it feels like more than luck. It’s been a wonderful life, and a blessing to share a job and all our students. Because we worked together we had an understanding between each of us.”