The Chinese have very exotic tastes when it comes to food … some of it is so very strange it is embarrassing to repeat.

Let’s just call it a foodie cult secret.

Most of you have heard of bird’s nest soup, but may not know the origin of this delicacy.

Authentic bird’s nest soup is made from the nest of the swiftlet, the nest being a gluey cup of dried saliva mixed with twigs and feathers (with the saliva acting as the bonding agent). This is no common, plebeian fare.

Bird’s nest soup is a dish relished by gourmands in Malaysia, Singapore, Indonesia, Thailand, Vietnam and Southeast Asian communities across the USA. And now, with their new wealth, millions in China like to celebrate their good fortune with this reputed immune booster. Bird’s nest soup is considered the caviar of the Orient and, like caviar, is being smuggled to meet the demands of the luxury food market.

Swiftlet nests can be legally collected twice a year in most of the countries where the birds live — Malaysia, Indonesia, Thailand and Vietnam — although only after the chicks are hatched and fledged. The swiftlets need about 45 days to spit themselves a new nest. With rising demand for this delicacy and a scarcity of supply, the price of bird’s nest has skyrocketed up to $5,000 a pound.

In Malaysia and Indonesia, caves where swiftlets have established their dwellings are protected by armed guards to keep out poachers. Poachers harvest the swiftlet nests without regard for limits, often knocking the chicks and eggs to the ground and sometimes preventing the birds from breeding at all.

The increasing demand for swiftlet nests has created a black market that is destroying populations of the sparrowlike bird. In Malaysia, my birth country, caves that held 500,000 birds in 1993 held just 180,000 in 1997.

The exorbitant prices have created an interesting trend in Malaysia. In my village, in the central highlands of Malaysia, folks are converting the upper stories of their houses into cavelike dens, complete with stereos that play bird songs to attract breeding swiftlets. Those who are successful breeders make a fortune. Perhaps this symbiotic arrangement could eventually boost the bird population (if it doesn’t first wipe out the humans with avian flu). Just a paranoid thought.

When my grandfather was still living, I spent many eye-blurring, neck-cramping hours cleaning birds’ nests for his consumption. The dried nest has to soak for awhile, preferably overnight, before the tedious cleaning process begins. Using a pair of tweezers, I would clean out the bits and pieces of twigs, bird feathers and specks of blood. Under my mother’s careful tutelage, I became fairly skilled — no reflection on personal talent. Young girls were best suited as a result of steady, small hands, strong eyes and oodles of obedient patience (three to three-and-a-half hours to prepare a couple of nests for cooking).

My grandfather lived to a ripe old age of 98 — aided, many believe, by his favorite elixirs of bird’s nest soup and black rhinoceros horn tea. Meanwhile, he has left to his grandchildren the uncomfortable legacy of explaining his wanton disregard of embattled species.

PLPOA monthly meeting

The Pagosa Lakes Property Owners Association regular May board meeting will be today, at 7 p.m .at the Pagosa Lakes Clubhouse. In addition to committee reports and general business, Teddy Herzog will give a presentation on county Home Rule for the board and interested owners.

Also, there are three open seats for PLPOA Board of Directors. If you are interested in becoming a board member, come by the office at 230 Port Ave. to pick up an application and petition. Applications and signed petitions are due by Monday, May 12, at 5 p.m.

The Pagosa Lakes Property Owners Association will undertake wildfire fuels mitigation work in a couple of Twincreek Village greenbelt properties beginning this week. The project entails brush thinning and general fuels reduction work in greenbelts near Martinez Canyon. A large portion of the work includes the removal of dead gambel oak brush that was hit hard by late freezes over the past three years and is now standing dead. All material will be chipped and spread on site. Please avoid entering work areas. If you have any questions about the project, call Larry Lynch at the association offices, at 731-5635.

The Community United Methodist Church Crisis Box food program for the needy gave out hundreds of boxes of food this past winter, and the shelves are now close to being empty. And people in the community are still in need of food to feed their families.

Pagosa Women’s Club decided to help fill those shelves and collected food at their April meeting to donate to the Crisis Box food pantry program. Two shopping carts worth of food and $40 in checks were given to CUMC to help restock the shelves and keep the food boxes filled and ready to be given out to those in need. The club hopes that other organizations will pitch in and help, too.

“We average about three boxes given out a day.  The need gets stronger toward the middle and end of the months, or until pay checks begin to run out.  We believe that there is so much food in this country that no one should go without food, for any reason,” said CUMC Pastor Don Ford.  “If a person comes in and asks for a food box at the church, they will get one.”

Each box contains enough food to serve a family of four for three days.  It totals about $40 worth of food.  The following items are needed to keep the shelves stocked and ready to fill the boxes:

• Canned meat or fish.

• Canned vegetables.

• Canned fruit.

• Canned soup or dried soup mixes.

• Dried pasta, rice or beans (cans or dried).

• Sauces or meal mixes for pasta or rice.

• Macaroni and cheese mixes.

• Jars of peanut butter (16 ounces).

• Boxes of saltine crackers.

• Baking mix (40 ounces) i.e., Bisquick.

• Small boxes of powdered milk (9.6 ounces).

• Cereal — hot or cold.

• 2-pound bags of sugar.

• Small bottles of dish soap (12 ounces).

• Rolls of paper towels and toilet tissue.

If anyone or any group is interested in donating food or having a food drive, collected items can be brought to the church office at 434 Lewis St. for delivery to the food pantry. If those interested in helping would rather donate money, put “Crisis Box” on the memo line of the check, and volunteers will do the shopping.

“Crisis boxes are filled once or twice a month and volunteers are always appreciated,” said Robin Ball, program coordinator, and “if this community service is really special to anyone’s heart, we would like to add them to our volunteer list.”

Those interested may call Robin at 731-3005 or the church office at 264-5508 for further information.

Thursday, May 1, 2008

Auditions set for Boosters’ production of ‘Oliver’

Pagosa Springs Music Boosters new audition dates for their summer show “Oliver” are Monday, May 5, and Thursday, May 8, from 5:30 to 8 p.m. in the band room at the high school. 

Contact us for arranging alternate audition dates, if necessary. 

We are fortunate to have been able to secure the rights to performance and licensing so quickly for this outstanding, classic musical.  We are seeking men and women, high school age and up, and boys and girls, ages 9 and older to cast in this marvelous musical, set on the streets of London, with characters ranging from orphans to members of street gangs, from thieves and villains to generous village  folks. 

Please come prepared to sing one verse of a Broadway show tune; an accompanist will be provided. 

Script reading and a group dance audition will also be part of the audition requirements. 

Call Lisa Hartley, Music Boosters president, at 731 2130, or see www.pagosamusicboosters.org.

Thursday, May 1, 2008

Photo courtesy Sabine Baeckmann-Elge
Leslie Baughman’s “Pink Flowers” is among the photographs taken by young Pagosans to be displayed in a show at the Sisson Library May 8-July 3.

Photo courtesy Sabine Baeckmann-Elge
“Lizard” by Colin Moosbrugger is one of the many works by young Pagosa photographers that will be on display at the Sisson Library May 8 through July 3.

Thursday, May 1, 2008

Kids’ photography show coming to Library

If you haven’t gotten down to the Ruby Sisson Library yet to see the beautiful work of Betty Slade and her students, now is the time. The show will end on Wednesday, May 7, so there’s only a week left to enjoy these wonderful works of art.

Beginning May 8, photojournalist Wendy Saunders and her students will be exhibiting photographs from previous PHOTOlearn Kid’s Camps. The show will be on display through July 3.

Patrons and prospective kid’s camp attendees can meet Saunders and view other children’s work at the opening. In addition, you can vote for People’s Choice Award (with the prize of a full Kid’s Camp Scholarship). Students’ works are for sale, with proceeds benefiting the student and a portion going to scholarships to PHOTOlearn Camp 2008. Students supporting students.

Saunders will also have a limited number of framed photographs for silent auction sale, with proceeds donated to the PHOTOlearn Camp Scholarship Program. Purchasers have a grand opportunity not to only have a limited edition photograph but also provide an area child an opportunity to explore photography.

Saunders, who covers special events throughout the country and lives in Pagosa Springs, conducts the PHOTOlearn camps every summer (in Lafayette and Pagosa Springs). Even with the camp fees, Saunders’s company donates materials and she volunteers her instruction time. PHOTOlearn Camp (term coined by Saunders) provides an opportunity to preserve the essence of photography. With the instant gratification in today’s world, Saunders relishes the opportunity to expose youth to creative art resource — photography, in its natural evolution. When using film cameras, students can understand exposure (apertures and shutter speeds) because they are dialing in the settings and they see a negative and print for evaluation. “I’m a firm believer of hands-on instruction and how such an opportunity provides a higher retention value rate,” proclaims Saunders.

Saunders’ PHOTOlearn Scholarship Program is making a difference in the lives of kids who love photography. Saunders is seeking foundation, business or individual sponsorship camp scholarships in Pagosa Springs and Lafayette. Each scholarship of $159 is awarded to deserving and talented students in the community who are in need of financial aid. There are many children in the community who have an interest in photography; however family finances may prevent such an opportunity. “Through the generosity of the community, the preservation of photography and the inspiration of a child’s mind can be reached,” states Saunders.

If you would like to give area children an opportunity to experience the essence of photography through sponsoring a PHOTOlearn Camp scholarship, contact Saunders at 264-4486.

For more show information, contact Sabine Baeckmann-Elge at sabine@pagosafinearts.com. Saunders will also display the images after the show on her Web site, www.wendysaunders.com.

Thursday, May 1, 2008

Let’s Dance to study Night Club
2-Step, East Coast Swing in May

Let’s Dance classes in May will be Beginning Night Club 2-Step from 6:30-7:50 p.m .and Intermediate East Coast Swing from 8-9:20 p.m. on Wednesday, May 7, Wednesday, May 14, Wednesday, May 21, and Wednesday, May 28.

We will also have Sunday practice sessions at which the dancers can get additional help from Deb on May 18 and 25, and on June 1. The beginning practice session on Sunday will be from 3 to 4 p.m. and the intermediate practice session will be from 4 to 5.

By tailoring the speed and content of each class to the skill level of the participants involved, the dancers will be challenged to learn something new without being overwhelmed or bored. Check with Deb at 731-3338 if you are not sure at which level you should enroll.

The June 1 practice session will also present the opportunity for students to “check out” on the month’s lessons. By working one-on-one with Deb, the student has the opportunity to get what amounts to a private lesson and earn a percentage grade and receive a frameable certificate signifying their accomplishment. Because of the schedule changes, we will not be having our usual last Wednesday of the month open CD dance party. Feel free to bring your own refreshments to the Sunday practices.

Please note that our class schedules are changing from our prior Thursday night schedule. This month, the classes are on Wednesday nights and, starting in June, the regular class nights will be Tuesdays. This is the result of increasing scheduling conflicts in the use of the PLPOA clubhouse on Thursdays.

Classes cost $20 per person for the month, which includes all classes, practice sessions, a checkout opportunity and the CD party (if we hold one). If you are unsure if you want to sign up for the whole month or know you will miss some of the classes, you may also pay by the class at $7 per person per class. All Let’s Dance sessions meet at the PLPOA Clubhouse, 230 Port Ave. There is no need to pre-register, but please arrive 10 minutes early to register. Classes must start on time because we are holding two classes each night. Although it is helpful to register with a partner, it is not necessary as there is usually a close match between men and women and we will rotate dance partners during the evening. Wear comfortable clothing and well-fitting shoes that have smooth or split leather soles, something that won’t leave black marks or mud. Shoes with rubber soles or lugs are inappropriate and difficult to dance in.

For more information call Deb Aspen at 731-3338 or e-mail her at instep@centurytel.net.

About the dances

The Night Club 2-Step should not be confused with the Country Western 2-Step. The only things they have in common are they are both danced with a partner and they have “2-Step” in their names. Night Club 2-Step is a versatile and practical social dance, romantic in nature, that is danced to soft rock or love songs. This type of music is often heard in nightclubs and on the radio. If you have ever gone to a dance and realized that you don’t have a clue what to dance when they play a slow song, Night Club 2-Step is probably the dance you want to try.

East Coast Swing is also called Triple-Step Swing because of the triple steps or chasses that are done alternately to each side followed by a rock step. It is related to the other swing-type dances such as Jitterbug, Jive, Single-step and Double-step Swing, West Coast Swing, and Country-Western Swing. The choice of which swing to do depends on the tempo, rhythm and melody of the music, East Coast being danced to slower swing music.

Ballroom tips

Hold versus Frame. Hold refers to how the partners hold each other. The man generally has his right hand under the woman’s left arm, resting on her left shoulder blade, fingers together, not splayed as if holding a basketball, and his wrist tucked up under the back of her armpit maintaining good contact. His left hand will be holding the woman’s right hand. The position of his left arm will vary according to the dance. For Night Club 2-Step, like the “smooth dances” such as Waltz and Foxtrot, the arm extends to his left with the forearm upwards at roughly a 45-degree angle and the hands at the height of the shorter partner’s eyes. For East Coast Swing, the left arm is held downwards and the hands are at about waist level. The woman’s right hand will of course be in the man’s left hand and the arm position will mirror the man’s arm position. Her left arm will rest gently on the man’s right forearm, elbows next to each other, and her left hand falling where it will on the man’s upper arm with his arm falling in the V between her thumb and forefinger. She should not hold his arm or hand in a “Death Grip” as this will make turns (and dancing in general) very uncomfortable and difficult.

Frame refers to the firmness with which both partners maintain their dance hold. Generally the arms and the upper body stay in a fixed orientation and move as a unit. The woman meets the man’s resistance with an equal amount of resistance so that they move together. This resistance should be firm but not rigid like a mannequin. It is important that the resistance be maintained throughout the dance because this is how the man communicates to the woman how he wants her to move. If either partner’s frame “softens,” it will become impossible for the man to lead the woman. Have you ever tried to push wet spaghetti? Some women are so attuned to their partner that they are very light in the man’s arms and it feels to him as though he is not dancing with anyone at all. Unfortunately this is not a good thing because the man needs to have the feedback on his partner’s position in order to lead her successfully. While frame is one of the most important elements in successful partner dancing, it tends to be the first thing forgotten when beginning students are learning a new step. By developing a good dance frame from the beginning, students can go on to learn new dances and steps and lead/follow them well.

Thursday, May 1, 2008

Garden Festival to benefit community assistance fund

Persons who enjoy fine art, quality entertainment and gourmet food or wine will be attracted to Art in the Garden Festival at Rito Blanco Nursery 3 to 7 p.m., Saturday, Aug. 16.

The Garden Festival is being planned by a group from the Community United Methodist Church, to aid the church Community Assistance Fund, which requires $25,000 a year.

Janet Nordmann and Mary Kay Carpenter (owner of Rito Blanco Nursery) originated the Garden Festival idea for Pagosa Springs. .

The Community Assistance Fund is different from Pagosa Outreach Connection, which is supported by nine local churches and the Salvation Army.

“The Community Assistance Fund is for smaller items such as gas vouchers and prescriptions. At times the fund helps with rent,” said Rev. Donald Ford, pastor at CUMC.

The Garden Festival is something new, according to Mary Webb, one of the festival planners. “We hope to raise $5,000 to help,” said Webb.

“Highlights of this first annual event includes a wide variety of fine art from local artists, musical entertainment from gifted and dynamic performers and culinary treats, all coming together in a tranquil, beautiful garden setting that will delight the senses with color and fragrance, Webb said.

Artists will demonstrate their techniques during the event. Poster artist this year is Jeanine Malaney, best known for her serene mountain landscapes. A limited edition of the festival poster featuring Malaney’s painting of the Rito Blanco gardens will be available for sale.

The gourmet food will be provided by members of the committee. Carpenter and Fran Jenkins will coordinate this.

Webb and Aideen Karger are handing the publicity.

Susan Long is chairman of the music committee.

Malaney is overseeing the art committee.

Sandy Howe is in charge of finances and ticket sales.

Pinky Hamilton is chairman of facilities.

Persons wanting more information are asked to call 264-6425, 731-1288 or 264-2933.

Thursday, May 1, 2008

Methodist Church distributes Russ Hill funds

The Community United Methodist Church this month distributed funds to 19 community groups. The funds were raised between Nov. 14 and Nov. 28 last year through the Russ Hill Memorial Bazaar.

The annual bazaar was named for Russ Hill, who died in 1973 at the age of 40. Hill was active in the church and community.

About 100 people from the community help each year, preparing wreaths and other Christmas season decorations, some of which are distributed all over the U.S.

The grant donations were similar to last year’s.

This 2007 wreath-making effort resulted in a net of $19,000. Of that money, 40 percent was contributed to the church and 60 percent was distributed back to the community based on grant requests from organizations.

Those receiving grants were:

• Archuleta County Education Center.

• Archuleta County Ruritan Club.

• Archuleta County Victims Assistance Program.

• Archuleta Seniors Inc.

• Big Brothers/Big Sisters.

• Boy Scouts of America Troop 807.

• Chimney Rock Interpretive Association.

• Habitat for Humanity.

• Kids in Safety Seats.

• Loaves and Fishes.

• Pagosa Pregnancy Support Center.

• Pagosa Springs Choral Society.

• Ruby M. Sisson Memorial Library.

• San Juan Basin Health Department.

• Nurse Family Partnership.

• San Juan Historical Society.

• Seeds of Learning.

• Sonlight Christian Camp.

• Special Olympics of Pagosa Springs.

Thursday, May 1, 2008

Humane Society holds Chocolate Auction

Chocolate, chocolate, chocolate!

More than 46 items were auctioned at the recent SunDowner held April 23 at the Humane Society of Pagosa Springs Thrift Store.

This yearly event, held in conjunction with the Pagosa Springs Chamber SunDowner, is one of the several fund-raisers that the Humane Society holds throughout the year.

This year’s theme was “Mexican Fiesta.” More than 180 guests enjoyed a scrumptious meal of a chicken taco with all the fixing’s, Spanish rice, fresh watermelon, and a spicy green chili pork stew. Afterward, guests took part in the bidding wars for the delectable and incredible chocolate desserts from cakes, brownies, cheese cakes and baskets filled with truffles, chocolate-dipped strawberries and gourmet kitchen cookware and gadgets. Items were donated and created by master chefs and caterers for this chocolate-filled evening, that brought in over $10,800.

All proceeds from this event will benefit the homeless dogs and cats of Archuleta County.

Thank you to auctioneer Larry Ashcraft, spotters Sharon Crump, Buzz Gillentine, and Richard Miller. A special thanks to Siri Schuchardt for chairing this event, and to all our special bakers, volunteers, thrift store manager Bonnier Milburn, and staff, who helped make this such an incredible successful evening.

Thursday, May 1, 2008

PREVIEW photo/Sarah O. Smith
Pagosa Springs High School band and choir teacher Dan Burch directs members of the high school choir during the annual spring concert last week.

Thursday, May 1, 2008

Pagosans screen film, conduct letter campaign on behalf of jailed Tibetans

As the Aug. 8 Olympics ceremony draws near, the eyes of the world are on human rights every bit as much as athletic competition. The protests in Tibet during March, and then others following the Olympic torch relay, have brought human rights conditions in the host country of China into the spotlight. According to the Dalai Lama, Tibetans have suffered the effects of steady “cultural genocide” and that is why they are so determined to speak out.

Last Saturday, a movie was shown in the Pagosa Springs Community Center that focuses on the issue of human rights in Chinese-occupied Tibet. The movie, “Windhorse,” is “fact-based fiction,” according to its Academy Award winning director, Paul Wagner. “Many people, upon hearing how we filmed Windhorse, say that the story of the filming is as amazing as the fictional story. For those of us in the cast and crew of Windhorse, it truly was a once-in-a-lifetime experience for many reasons, but especially because we filmed Windhorse ‘illegally’ inside Tibet and in Nepal.”

The movie tells the story of three cousins living in Lhasa, the capital of Tibet. One is a nun and when her convent is searched by Chinese police for images of the Dalai Lama, one of her pictures is discovered. She is arrested after making a statement of loyalty to the Dalai Lama and her country of Tibet. In prison she is brutally tortured. Because of their association with her, her extended family is uprooted, in an attempt to avoid similar treatment. The eldest flee to a faraway town, expressing a desire “to die in Tibet” and the two young cousins leave them and escape over the high Himalayans to Nepal, a neighboring country. It is estimated that 200,000 Tibetans have made that long and difficult trek to freedom since 1959, and many others have lost their lives in the attempt.

On the movie’s Web site, http://www.windhorsemovie.com, director Wagner describes why it was so interesting to be filming in Tibet. “For over fifty years, Tibet has been under the tight control of the Chinese communist government, and especially the secret police known as the PSB, or Public Security Bureau. In 1950, Chinese forces invaded Tibet, and in 1959, His Holiness the Dalai Lama fled into exile in India. Since that time, any activities that support or encourage Tibetan freedom or that acknowledge the temporal and spiritual leadership of the Dalai Lama are strictly forbidden. As the story in the film makes clear, even images of the Dalai Lama, which would otherwise be displayed in every Tibetan home, are banned in Tibet.”

The movie was shown by two Pagosa residents, Susan Purcell and Beth Lee-Herbert. “We want to support the cause of Tibetan autonomy and human rights,” Purcell said. “In America, we take our freedoms for granted,” Lee-Herbert said. “We can practice any religion we like. We can say publicly what we feel without fearing government reprisal, and we can meet to protest what we feel is wrong. On American soil, peaceful protesters are rarely arrested and held for years or indefinite periods of time, and they do not expect to be tortured or murdered. In China, unfortunately, this is not uncommon. There is no freedom of speech or religion. There is no freedom to meet or peacefully protest anything whatsoever. And government censorship ensures that not even any underground critiques can be heard by the people.”

“We feel that now is the time for the world to learn about the Tibetan situation,” Lee-Herbert said, “because China, in their petition to host the Olympic Games, pledged to improve their human rights performance. But as events in Tibet have shown, they have not honored that pledge.”

“According to a New York Times article of Friday, April 26, the Chinese authorities arrested 100 monks in Tongren on Thursday. These monks were peacefully protesting the earlier arrest of monks from a neighboring monastery,” Purcell said, “and in the same article it says that the official Xinhua news agency acknowledges that 2,200 Tibetans have been detained since March 14.”

“Now is the time for us to increase our vigil because after the Olympics are over and the world isn’t watching so closely, China will not feel so much pressure. If there is no solution now, we fear the situation for Tibetans will be much worse after the Olympics are over,” Lee-Herbert said.

“Our lives in the United States are effected by China every day,” Purcell said. “Our homes are filled with goods manufactured in China., and when Chinese people use the Internet, they are using American products like Yahoo! and Google. Our involvement is daily and constant. And we need to be vigilant of both companies’ and governments’ behavior. For example, in 2004 Yahoo! helped Chinese censors to jail a Chinese journalist by passing to censors information that led to his imprisonment. The journalist, Shi Tao, had written an anonymous e-mail to an international pro-democracy web site that summarized a government order to the media in China to downplay the upcoming 15th anniversary of the 1989 crackdown on pro-democracy activists, as in Tiananmen Square. Chinese authorities had sent a letter to Yahoo! requesting the identity of the anonymous e-mail and Yahoo! turned it over. Shi Tao was sentenced to 10 years in jail for that e-mail. He is still in jail today. Yahoo! says it was only following orders.”

Purcell is leading a letter writing campaign on behalf of Tibetans jailed for peaceful protest. Her e-mail address is spurcell@skywerx.com.

Thursday, May 1, 2008

Thursday, May 1, 2008

Jurcak print donated to Pagosa Mountain Hospital

Have you met June Jurcak? Do you recognize her shopping at City Market? Most probably not, but Jurcak is one of Pagosa Springs’ most talented professional artists, who avoids the spotlight.

Recently, Jurcak donated one of her juried prints, of an American Goldfinch perched on a red-berried branch, to the Pagosa Mountain Hospital for its permanent collection.

Characteristic of her nature, Jurcak (pronounced Jerak) had to be convinced that this PREVIEW article was necessary. She does not seek the limelight and would prefer to remain anonymous, letting her exquisite, best-selling watercolors speak for themselves. Jurcak’s work, displayed at Wild Spirit Gallery in Pagosa, Higher Grounds, and Joy’s Natural Foods, focuses primarily on plants and animals, in particular hummingbirds, dragon flies, hibiscus flowers, and other colorful fare. What separates Jurcak’s work from others is its’ exceptional watercolor renderings, intricate detail interwoven with fluid, free-moving color fields. Her love of the natural world is captured so beautifully, so delicately, that the viewer is left feeling that the plants and the animals will take off from the canvas and fly away. That is an artist. All this and modesty too ... a rare combination.

Jurcak moved to Pagosa Springs with her family just three years ago from Michigan. She had artwork in a gallery called “Design Works” in Michigan. That gallery’s owner, Zorca, knew the Pagosa-Durango area well, and she recommended it to the Jurcaks who were considering a move. “My friend Zorca told us that Pagosa Springs was far better than Durango to live in, and I’m glad we took her advice. We love this community! I saw the Call to Artist articles in The Sun and felt compelled to respond with some of my work. It’s nice to do something positive for the community in which you live. After all, we all work here, we all have our families here.” Jurcak’s enthusiasm for the Pagosa Mountain Hospital art project is high and infectious.

Asked how she became an artist, Jurcak talked about her road from here to there. “I’ve always loved art. I ended up taking three classes, total, at an adult evening course in our community. I loved it so much that I took it up full-time! I’ve been painting now for fifteen-plus years, although my working hours in the studio slowed down when we started a family.” Jurcak was honored to have one of her paintings selected for the Colorado habitat stamp two years ago. She is working on another piece to be considered for this year’s award. Her self-taught style is unique and special, and most viewers respond to it with great admiration.

Jurcak’s donated piece, titled “Karmen,” refers to the fact that she painted it for her close friend, whose name happens to be just that. “I wanted to donate something, and thought this print, which was juried into the Opening Day Show, would be a good match for the hospital.”

The Hospital Art Committee, and the Pagosa Springs Arts Council are working together on the next juried hospital show, to be held in mid-September. The show will tie into the Pagosa Springs Arts Council Studio Tour weekend. The Call to Artists for the juried show will be coming out in early June, and will seek artists from across the Four Corners area. An outside, non-partisan juror from the Denver Art Museum is currently in the negotiation stage with the hospital committee to select works for the next show.

Anyone interested in receiving a special invitation as a sponsor for future juried works may contact hospital art chairperson Kathleen Steventon, 731-3029.

Thursday, May 1, 2008

Work continues to brighten clinic

Pagosa Springs’ medical facilities keep getting better and better.

Pagosans deserve a lot of tender loving care after a winter like this last one. They also need TLC when they are feeling ill.

The hospital’s new look has inspired a small group from Grace Church and an interior designer from Restoration Fellowship to take on the Pagosa Springs Family Medicine Center as a community service project. Teaming up with Betsy Carpino, they have already painted the waiting area in soft, new modern colors.

Maria Vaughn, award-winning interior designer from Devine Dezine of Pagosa Springs, has donated many hours to the project to enhance our town’s medical facilities. The team hopes to add new lighting and flooring to the clinic soon. Additionally, the clinic would like to display local artists’ colorful contemporary work. Recently, local artist Anita Childress painted a lively underwater scene in the clinic’s pediatric room, brightening things up considerably.

If you’d like to donate your skilled labor, art or financial support in gratitude for a combined 50-plus years of devoted service from Drs. Jim Pruitt and Mark Wienpahl, call the clinic at 731-4131 to leave your name and contact information. This project is another example of the great things that can happen when folks come together to invest in Pagosa for the better.

Thursday, May 1, 2008

Pagosa Health and Wellness Speaker Series tonight

As part of its objectives, the Pagosa Health and Wellness Network is committed to providing education to the community encompassing health and wellness information and other educational topics.

Beginning at 7 p.m. tonight, our speakers will be Jim and Pat Fregia. They have studied and worked with dream interpretation for more than 30 years. Pat and Jim have written a book entitled, “Know Your Dreams, Know Your Self.” Dreams are messages from the subconscious mind. Interpreted correctly, dreams will provide solutions to an awareness of physical, emotional, mental and spiritual conditions. Truths are revealed, warnings are conveyed, and help is provided for both business and personal lives through dreams. The Fregias will be speaking interactively. All guests are invited to bring a dream.

Moving from the etheric to the worldly, a committee to study Home Rule was started several months ago.  It is non-partisan.  Committee members wanted to learn more about Home Rule in order to educate the public.  A 15-minute Power Point presentation was created which illustrates how Home Rule structure would differ from how Archuleta County is structured under statutory rules and brings forth some of the options available with Home Rule.   The committee has made the presentation to several other groups in the community and invited the Pagosa Health and Wellness Network to also host this educational opportunity. If you have yet to hear this information, please join us and become more aware of the meaning of Home Rule.

The Pagosa Health and Wellness Network believes this evening is a continuation in partnering with other organizations to bring subjects of interest to the citizens of Pagosa.

We invite any organization that would like to make a presentations as part of our public Speaker Series to contact us. In addition, we are interested in venturing out into the community to speak on various health and wellness issues. If you have a venue through which we can help educate your members and the public regarding health and wellness, contact us.

Contact: Athena Raphael, 731-9129; Sophia, 903-2108; or Linda LoCastro, 946-7352.

Thursday, May 1, 2008

Model railroading tools the topic at upcoming meeting

The Pagosa Springs Model Railroad and Railfan group will host a meeting at 2 p.m. Sunday, May 4, at Community United Methodist Church on Lewis Street.

The format will be different for this meeting: Every person attending the meeting is asked to bring at least one model railroad tool to display and discuss. One is good, more is better. Spend a minute or two and I’m sure you will come up with a few ideas. Bring them. If the item is too bulky, a photo or even a description will work.

What I have planned is a U shape of tables. We will go around the room giving everyone a chance to display and discuss myriad model RR tools. This does not have to be a favorite tool. Tools you don’t like are fair game as well. The tools can fall into any of the broad categories that define tools. Of course the hardware type tools will probably dominate but consider research, measuring, designing, assembly, etc. tools.

One of the main reasons for having a club is to share information and ideas. Every one of us, no matter how experienced or how new to the hobby, has something to share with the other members. Generally, you’d describe how to use the tool, the cost, and where it can be purchased.

We will have a display table. Bring a work in progress, a model you have finished, or a photo of a model or prototype scene. We’ll have a swap table for anything railroad related that you want to sell, trade or even give away.

Anyone with an interest in model railroading of any scale or gauge or any interest in trains is welcome to attend. For more information, contact Joe Lemmo at 731-1590 or jlmailbox@skywerx.com.

Thursday, May 1, 2008

Community Center NEWS

A couple of busy weeks at the center

The Internet gremlins struck last week with our regular column missing from The SUN.  They say technology is everything, but perfect it’s not.  We’ll keep trying hard to keep you apprised of the happenings here at the community center and apologize for having you miss us last week.

Was everyone waiting for a little spring weather to come out of their homes and hotel rooms?  We’ve had a constant flow of people through the community center in the last couple weeks.

Randall Davis is always a good draw (no pun intended) when he holds class.  His drawing class is always full of people trying to learn a new technique to make them better artists.  And, Life Force has also enjoyed a great showing of people. We really are trying harder to live longer, better.  The scrapbooking club has been having a lot of fun, and thank whomever it was that brought the scrap booking books to them.  As well, we’re pretty certain there are a few birthday kids who’ve been raking it in at all the recent birthday parties.

This year’s grads were again honored with the fifth annual After Prom party that started at 1 a.m. Saturday morning.  They met up with friends and stretched an otherwise great evening to an all-night party.  With a little iced coffee and a lot of laughs, it just wasn’t hard to stay awake.  After Prom was open to all 2008 prom attendees, as well as all Pagosa Springs High School juniors or seniors who may have opted out of the actual prom.  Thank you again to the parents and others who volunteer to help make this event a reality.  Thanks also to the many donors who contribute to the success of this event.   It just doesn’t happen without you.

The Humane Society had their annual Fashion Show Brunch last Saturday.  Later that evening, one of Pagosa’s fashionistas was heard to say this year’s event was better than last, and she can’t wait to see what they’ll do next year.  Though the Humane Society deals with a lot of domestic animals and pets, it sounds like they’re walking a bit on the wild side, and looking good while they’re at it.

Mercy’s Korsgren’s last working day will be May 3 (Cinco de Mayo Fiesta Day).  She and Bill will still be in town for a short, few weeks before they leave, and I am inviting one-line farewell wishes from those in the community who would like to say good-bye via this column.  E-mail your comments to communitycenter@centurytel.net.  Please remember to keep your comments short.  There’s only so much ink and paper in town.

We are still getting some great comments about the art we’re displaying in our main hallway.  Tessie Garcia’s third- and fourth-grade art students are displaying a whole lot of talent.  I see something a little different every time I walk down the hall.  Tessie and the students’ parents have got to be proud.  Come by and see for yourself.

There’s so much coming up in the near future. During the coming week we’ll see Entrepreneurial training, Cinco de Mayo, the square dancers graduate, beading with Lizz, Realtor training and all of the regular programs we hold here at the community center.  The Fiber Festival will be taking place later in the month, as will the Children’s Concert, just to name a couple of events.  We’ll bring you more information as the time draws nearer.  In the meantime, we do appreciate hearing from you.  Continue to keep in touch with us.  And, remember:  Life’s a game — play fair.

Square dancing, contra dancing

  “Calling” all square dancers.  Don’t forget to mark your calendars for graduation day, Sunday, May 4.  Just from having been able to observe a time or two, it appears to me Lorna has all honor students.

Lorna writes:  “Jim Park, our new member/caller/teacher took charge of the class week before last, while Louis was out of town.  Jim, you did a super job with our group.  Everyone was pleased with your teaching expertise and the steps are making sense now.  We learned to fold, spin the top, and spin chain thru, and then we danced all afternoon.  We have now been introduced to all 69 steps in the mainstream program of square dancing.  Congratulations, everyone.”

Watch the SUN for news of what this new square dance group is doing and the start of new beginner lessons coming up this summer

For more information, call Lorna, 731-5525.

Cinco de Mayo Fiesta           

Damos una Fiesta!  (We’re having a party!)  Food, music, entertainment, children’s games, piñatas, Mexican Bingo, folkloric dancing and a dance demonstration . . . What’s not to enjoy?  We’re very excited that all the folks we’ve talked to have indicated they’re coming to our party.  Bring your families, and your friends as well, to fiesta hearty with the rest of us Pagosans.  Traditional dress is invited and encouraged, and a cash bar with imported beers will be available.

The Spanish Fiesta Club will be having an adult dance later in the evening, but we invite you to gear up for it by having fun with us earlier in the day: Saturday, May 3, 11 a.m.-4 p.m.  This information can also be found on the big banner overlooking Hot Springs Boulevard, just in case you forget.  And, in case you can’t make it to Mercy and Bill’s going-away potluck, this will also be a good time to tell her good-bye.

Couples and line dancing

I’ve watched the folks dancing and wish I could do what they do.  I suppose I could if I had time to join the class and learn some of the classy and classic steps they do.  They are so graceful.  There are people in Antigua, Guatemala, however, who would say I need to learn how to walk first.  I had trouble staying upright, whilst they were dancing, on uneven tile streets.  The Potticary’s write:  “Dance class is celebrating knee surgery month in April with Jim and Teri moving toward rehab after successful encounters with the surgeon.  Heal fast.  We miss you and the Waltz is waiting.  This is also the month that we say good-bye to Mercy.  She will leave a big hole in Pagosa.  All of us who have worked with her will miss her enthusiasm and big smile.  We wish her Bon Voyage and a happy life with her family in the Philippines.

Many thanks to Peggy, Beverly and Lorna for filling in for us a couple Mondays back.  What a comfort it is to have such capable people to fall back on.  Great job ladies.

Monday, couples at 9 a.m. and line dancing at 10 a.m. For more information, call Gerry at 731-9730, or the center at 264-4152.

Group exercise

Most Mondays, Wednesdays and Fridays at the center from 5-6 p.m. for yet another free program.  No, it’s not just for women.  We invite everyone including teenagers, seniors and in-betweens to join this exercise program.

The purpose of this activity is to provide a means for people to improve their health,   lose weight and have fun. We all know this is great way to manage stress from work and everyday life.

Call the center at 264-4152 before coming, to confirm we are having a session.

Sewing with C-Ann

This class meets every Saturday morning from 10 a.m. to noon, or later.  Come get help with your sewing project or do alterations on what you already have in your closet.  It is a free program at the community center.

Toddlers playgroup

This group meets every Thursday, 10 a.m.-noon. Bring your kids’ toys.  For more information call Gwen, 731-0305 or call us, 264-4152.

Lost and Found

We have several jackets and sweaters left here at the center. Please claim them, otherwise, we will donate them to the thrift stores.

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.  Please call or e-mail us at the information provided below if you have any news regarding your upcoming function at the community center.  If you’ve had a function recently, give us some feedback. 

We have a variety of reasonably priced rooms to meet your space needs — for 20, 50, 80 or 500 people. The center has tables and chairs, a portable stage and dance floor, audio visual equipment, and a PA system. A catering kitchen is also available, if needed.   Call 264-4152 or e-mail us at communitycenter@centurytel.net.

Activities

Thursday, May 1 — Hoopsters, 8-9 a.m.; Pagosa Springs Area Association of Realtors, 9 a.m.-5 p.m.; playgroup, 10 a.m.-noon; Duplicate Bridge 12:30-4:30 p.m.; Entrepreneurial Training, 6-9 p.m.; San Juan Outdoor Club, 6:30-8:30 p.m.

Friday, May 2 — Senior Walk, 11:15-11:35 a.m.; Senior Bridge for Fun, 12:30-4 p.m.; Duplicate Bridge, 5-10 p.m.; group exercise, 5-6 p.m.

Saturday, May 3 — Cinco de Mayo, 11 a.m.-4 p.m.; Beading with Lizz, 1-4 p.m.  

Sunday, May 4 — Grace Evangelical Free Church, 10 a.m.-noon; Church of Christ, 10 a.m.–noon; square dancing, 3-5 p.m.; High Roads Baptist Church, 6–8 p.m.; Wyndham Activities, 6-8 p.m.

Monday, May 5 — Couples and line dancing, 9-11:30 a.m.; Senior Walk, 11:15-11:35 a.m.; Bridge for Fun, 12:30-4 p.m.; Pagosa Health and Wellness, 6-9 p.m.

Tuesday, May 6 — Hoopsters, 8-9 a.m.; yoga, 10-11:30 a.m.; Senior Walk, 11:15-11:35 a.m.; Enhancing Your Digital Photos with Bruce, 6:30-9:30 p.m.

Wednesday, May 7 — Dance for Health, 10-11:30 a.m.; Body and Soul Renewal, noon-1 p.m.; Weight Watchers, 4:30-6:45 p.m.

Thursday, May 8 — Hoopsters, 8-9 .am.; Creative Writing thru Art, 9 a.m.-2:30 p.m.; Chimney Rock, 6-8- p.m.; Echo Ditch, 6:30-7:30 p.m.

Thursday, April 24, 2008

Photo courtesy Lisa Scott
These pairs of hand-painted wine and champagne glasses were created by students as a project of the ACEC and proceeds from the sale of the glasses will benefit the Ed Center’s scholarship program. The glasses are currently on display at local banks and bids are being taken. Winners will be announced at the Ed Center luncheon on April 30.

Photo courtesy Lisa Scott
Bid on these hand-painted wine glasses, on display at local banks now. The glasses were created by students as a project of the ACEC and proceeds from the sale of the glasses will benefit the Ed Center’s scholarship program. Auction winners will be announced at the April 30 ACEC luncheon.

Thursday, April 24, 2008

Hand-painted glasses being auctioned for Education Center

As part of the celebration of the 20th anniversary of the Archuleta County Education Center (ACEC) on April 30, an array of hand-painted glasses will be displayed and offered in a silent auction.

These pairs of hand-painted wine and champagne glasses were created by students as a project of the ACEC and proceeds from the sale of the glasses will benefit the Ed Center’s scholarship program.

The artists include Archuleta County High School students Bridgett Brulee, Andrea Burch, CJ Cartrett, Mike Hanley, Justin Johnson, Heath Rivas and Joe Weber; Pagosa Springs High School student Dezzi Ewing, and Greg Coffey, a spouse of a GED student.

The glasses were donated by First Southwest Bank, specifically for this project, and are currently on display at both locations of First Southwest Bank, both locations of Citizens Bank and at the Bank of the San Juans. Bids are being accepted at the banks and the winners will be determined during the luncheon.

The community is invited to attend the seventh annual ACEC luncheon celebrating “20 Years of Mind Over Matter” which will be held on Wednesday, April 30, starting at 11:45 a.m. at Center Point Church on U.S. 160.

Tickets are available for a donation of $50 each, and anyone who has been to a luncheon in the past can surely remember the moving testimonials that are shared during this event.

For more information about the luncheon or the Ed Center, call the ACEC at 264-2835.

Thursday, April 24, 2008

Masons confer Master Degree

Pagosa Lodge No. 114 and Durango Lodge No. 46, A.F. and A.M. of Colorado joined together in a special communication Saturday, April 19, to confer the Master Mason Degree.

Conferring this degree by Pagosa Lodge officers and brothers is a first for the lodge in many years. Previously, they have relied heavily on the assistance of other Colorado Lodges. A dinner following the communication was provided by the wives of Lodge members.

Since receiving its charter in 1902, the membership of Pagosa Lodge No. 114 has been comprised of many prominent community leaders and citizens. Over the past two years the Lodge membership has grown significantly, as many brothers have petitioned for membership or moved into the area and opted for dual affiliation. . Freemasonry is the oldest and largest fraternity in the world. It is a complete world satisfying the needs of the whole man, physical, moral, intellectual, social and spiritual.

Meetings are held at 7 p.m. on the first Tuesday of every month at the Lodge, 227 Lewis St. All sojourning or visiting Masons are welcome to attend the stated communications and special activities. We look forward to welcoming and to having you join us at the Lodge and activities.

Activities for the month of May are conferring of the First Degree on May 13 and a social for all Masons and their wives on May 20.

For additional information and directions to the Lodge, please contact Bob Case PM, secretary, at 731-5593.

Thursday, April 24, 2008

Music in Waldorf education

Parents and teachers all know how much children love music. Just sing a song to a child and watch their expression soften as their eyes sparkle; they’ll ask you to sing the song again and again.

In fact, current brain research indicates that humans are “hard-wired” to receive and decode music and that it is as much of a basic life skill as walking or talking. The rhythm in lullabies and rocking teaches babies that vocalizations have a sequence and inflection, they learn turn-taking in conversation through babbling long before the first words are spoken. Later, basic musical competence emerges as preschoolers learn to sing in tune and march to a beat.

Preschoolers at the Pagosa Kinderhouse memorize songs, verses, and movements easily, reflecting their joy in the musically-rich classroom. When dropping off my son for the day, I invariably hear children quietly singing to themselves before they join the circle where the teachers lead the group in seasonal songs, fingerplays, and group dances. I hear the teachers gently guiding the children through the rhythm of their day with songs. As part of the Pagosa Waldorf Initiative, Pagosa Kinderhouse nourishes the young child’s need for predictability and serenity. Waldorf, or Steiner education integrates music and movement throughout every day and at every age, first teaching children to sing in tune, then to play flutes/recorders in first grade, and later to play stringed instruments. Exposure to many kinds of music, especially paired with movement, lays the foundation for language acquisition and literacy skills by engaging the whole child in rhymes, rhythm, and repetition (Palmer, 2001).

Children who understand and can manipulate the sounds of language have phonemic awareness, they will have much greater success in reading. Several studies conclude that young children with developed rhythm skills from music and movement perform better academically in the early school years (Block, 2001; Mitchell, 2003).

Waldorf education, therefore, uses musical rhyme, rhythm, repetition, beauty and magic to inspire young children to explore language. While some educators advocate learning to read and write as early as possible, Waldorf teachers and families see the benefits of learning literacy skills as well as musical competence through music and movement until first grade when the abstract symbols of letters are introduced. By waiting to introduce literacy comprehension, families at Pagosa Kinderhouse, allow their children to develop deep, physical, emotional knowledge of sounds and to appreciate the beauty of language through oral tradition. These children will certainly enjoy reading great stories and creating their own poetry in the years ahead to explore printed words.

To learn more about the Pagosa Kinderhouse, call 264-2024 or visit our Web site at www.pagosakinderhouse.org. To learn more about Waldorf education, visit www.waldorfearlychildhood.org. or www.awsna.org.

Resources: Block, B.A. (2001) “Literacy through Movement: An Organized Approach,” J. of Physical Education, Recreation, and Dance, v. 72.

Palmer, H. (2001). “The Music, Movement, and Learning Connection, ”Young Child.

Mitchell, D. (2003).

“The relationship between Rhythmic Competency and Academic Performance,” University of Central Florida.

Thursday, April 24, 2008

Photo courtesy Addi Greer
Giant Twister, other games and activities, and plenty of food and drink treats await high school students at the annual After-Prom Party at the community center, after Saturday’s Pagosa Springs High School prom.

Thursday, April 24, 2008

Still time, ways to contribute to After-Prom Party

It’s springtime in the Rockies, and our little town gets sunny, warm weather alternating with wild wind and even snow showers before the hummingbirds dare return and locals dare to don shorts and sandals daily.

One thing will happen for certain, though, regardless of schizophrenic spring weather — the high school prom night this Saturday, followed by the annual After-Prom Party.

It is truly a magical time for young people, for whom, it seems, the weather doesn’t really matter much. There will still be strapless gowns for all hopeful prom queens and bare feet exposed after high heels hinder dancing. There will still be orchids and roses blooming on lapels and wrists.

These young folks will need all that youthful energy, as some may make the trek to Durango for dinner because so many local establishments are closed this month, and the Terry Alley Invitational track meet will take place during the day.

But, the real test of endurance comes after the prom when, at our community center, high schoolers can run an inflatable obstacle course, jump and stick onto a Velcro wall, play casino card games for awesome prizes, dance to music mixed by a fun DJ duo, all the while enjoying Dominos’ pizza, McDonald’s iced coffees and fruit and cookies dipped in a chocolate fountain, from 1 to 4 a.m.

That is just a peek at this year’s fun. Additionally, there will be some exciting prizes for those who stay at the party again this year. Thanks to the generosity of Moore & Company (Lindy and Mike Moore) and Pagosa Glass (Matt and Stacia Aragon), we will give away the popular Nintendo Wii. The Outfitter has donated an awesome long board and Summit Ski & Sports is giving away a snowboard. We also have an iPod, a sweet ‘iPod home,’ a 7-megapixel digital camera and, for one lucky senior, a laptop computer — all compliments of our local Realtors.

The community center’s gymnasium becomes party central for this event put on by five moms — Lynn Johnson, Lindy Moore, Addi Greer, Sandy Caves, Sue Iverson and Deb Zenz — who met for months to plan, shop, order, build and beg to keep our youth safe after their prom. All moms of juniors and seniors have been asked to donate to the event to pay for the food and paper goods, entertainment and decorations, cleanup costs and the prizes which have been purchased. Many moms have already helped by waiting tables in conjunction with Eddie B’ Cookin catering to raise money in lieu of an annual yard sale.

It takes months to get the details complete for this party, which truly has something for everyone. Last year, 211 students attended and were amazingly active in the wee hours, trying to balance on the “bungie bull” and racing each other in the inflatable obstacle course. It is a fun event, and a community service at the same time.

The A.P.P. Committee would like to thank the parents who have already donated, and would like to remind those who would like to contribute that checks can be dropped off at the community center during operating hours or given to one of the moms mentioned above.

Thursday, April 24, 2008

Initiation into the sacred masculine

What is the sacred masculine?

The sacred masculine provides a model for men to rise above their own issues for the betterment of self, family, nation and race. This model calls for men to have a vision of the world in which they wish to live and to form a mission that will bring that vision to reality. The sacred masculine acknowledges both the life protecting and the destructive facets of a man’s character.

The old peoples of the earth, the tribal peoples, all knew that you’d better initiate the Warrior in a young man.

If you don’t initiate the Warrior, that aggression energy in a young man is going to damage his community and probably himself. If a man is not initiated into his sacred masculine he may remain in adolescence the rest of his life. And if he chooses to remain in adolescence, he will become a threat to himself, his family and the world. Today’s gangs are an example of this uninitiated adolescent energy. In adults, it may show up as the perpetrator of physical/emotional violence or a substance abuser.

Initiation into the sacred masculine empowers the male soul. It is masculine spirituality that has two parts: a man has to connect to the power and then figure out how to keep that power from destroying himself and his world. The old warriors were tribal warriors. They were great but they were fighting for tribal visions that were not as large as the human species. There is a new kind of warrior. New Warriors, men who have been initiated into their sacred masculine, empower others to manifest their potential, trusting they will create the healthy solutions needed by our society and planet. ManKind Project’s New Warrior Training Adventure initiates men into their sacred masculine. The aim of MKP is a worldwide shift in how masculinity is defined and acted out by men, regardless of race, religion or economics.

The New Warriors are inclusive across economic class, across religions, across races. New Warriors strive to be authentic and congruent in their thoughts, words and actions. New Warriors hold themselves accountable for their actions while living their defined mission in life. They do this with support through weekly meetings in Integration Group (I-Group) circles and holding to the following Four Basic Agreements:

1. Be impeccable with your word — Say only what you mean.

2. Don’t take anything personally — What others say and do is a projection of their own reality, their own dream.

3. Don’t make assumptions — Find the courage to ask questions and to express what you really want.

4. Always do your best — Under any circumstance, simply do your best, and you will avoid self-judgment, self-abuse and regret.

New Warriors are located worldwide in 38 New Warrior Communities located on four continents. There are approximately 50 New Warriors in southwest Colorado, part of the New Mexico-southwest Colorado Community, which will host a New Warrior Training Adventure the last weekend of May. MKP, www.mkp.org, is a secular, non-profit organization; locally New Warriors meet weekly. Contact John Gwin at 731-9666 for more information.

Thursday, April 24, 2008

Electronic voting topic of final spring lecture

An expert on the troubled history of electronic voting, Ross Park comes to Pagosa Springs as the final presenter in the spring Lifelong Learning lecture series, sponsored by the Sisson Library.

The title of this lecture is “Electronic Voting: A Source of Insecurity?”

Park will relate a brief history of electronic voting, and will look at perceived and real issues, recent events concerning electronic voting machines in Colorado, and what needs to be done to assist electronic voting in the future.

Park is technical assistant for electronic voting in La Plata County, professional associate of Fort Lewis College, Webmaster-blog editor for the League of Women Voters of La Plata County with graduate degrees in mathematics and computer science.

This free lecture at the library is co-sponsored by the League of Women Voters of Archuleta County. Everyone is welcome. Park will speak at 3 p.m. Saturday, April 26.

Thursday, April 24, 2008

Pagosa Lakes News

Chronically busy? Go fishing, PLPOA stocks lakes

Are you overwhelmed, stressed out — just plain too busy?

These days, it seems that if you aren’t too busy, then you must be doing something wrong.

Chronic “busyness” — the need to do it all and be all — is the world’s newest addiction.

Overextending oneself is a habit that’s generally endured, but it’s one that’s been associated with a growing list of maladies, including headaches, frequent colds, forgetfulness, irritability … and the list goes on.

Summer — when the children are out of school, there are lots of tourists in town, friends and relatives come out of the woodwork to visit you in Pagosa and the mercury is rising — is one of the most stressful seasons. We all hunker down and simply try to endure it.

Let’s decide what’s most important in our lives, and then create a sane, sensible schedule. It takes time to do so, but it’s time well spent, and will go a long way toward increasing productivity and reducing stress.

Another big stress reducer? No surprise here: it’s exercise and doing what you enjoy. I admit it’s hard to fit it all in sometimes, but it can — and must — be scheduled. The bottom line is to simply focus more on what will increase your quality of life.

And for some, it may be fishing. Should that be the case, you are in luck. We are surrounded by quality fishing lakes and streams.

Spring trout stocking began last week for the four lakes of Pagosa Lakes. Fishing permits are available at the recreation center, as well as the Pagosa Lakes Administration Office in Vista.

Project plans

The Pagosa Lakes Property Owners Association in cooperation with Archuleta County plans to begin the construction of a paved pedestrian and bicycle pathway adjacent and parallel to Lake Forest Circle in the near future. The plan is to construct approximately 3,000 lineal feet of asphalt, 8-foot wide hard surface pathway adjacent to Lake Forest Circle beginning at the intersection of Beaver Circle and proceeding northward to the intersection of Quartz Court. The pathway will be located within the Lake Forest Circle county road right-of-way, on the northeast side of the existing road, about 10 feet of separation. Additionally, beginning at the Beaver Circle intersection and proceeding southerly across the dam at Lake Forest, the plan is to construct a 5-foot wide concrete sidewalk next to the road, curb and gutter design. This will be approximately a 1,200 lineal foot section of sidewalk across the dam itself, next to the road. All told, the plan is to construct around 4200 feet of pathway this spring and summer.

Next year, the association plans to complete the pathway back to the south on Lake Forest Circle, making the connection to the existing pathway on North Pagosa Boulevard. Funding for the project is coming from the Pagosa Lakes Property Owners Association parks and trails fund, as well as some money from a previous settlement that belonged specifically to the Lake Forest Estates subdivision and, through a vote of the owners, was designated for a pedestrian pathway.

When complete this is going to be a great amenity for the residents of Lake Forest Estates, as well as others looking for recreational walking and biking pathways in the area. The pathway, when completed, will allow for safe non-motorized connections to the core area, recreation center, other lakes and shopping facilities. If you have any questions regarding the pathway and its alignment, call Larry Lynch at the association offices, 731-5635, Ext. 25.

Thursday, April 17, 2008

Week of the Young Child continues

Week of the Young Child continues through Saturday.

During the Week of the Young Child, join in the celebration and help our community support all young children.

Local celebrations of the Week of the Young Child build support for programs and policies that are vital to young children of Archuleta County.

The following are the remaining activities for the Week of the Young Child in Archuleta County.

• Today, April 17 — San Juan Basin Health Department will be sponsoring a free car seat safety check from 3 to 5 p.m. Make sure your child’s car seat i