The Durango Telegraph, Feb. 10, 2022

Good luck, Tim Brady!

­elegraph the­­­­durango

FREE

Feb. 10, 2022 Vol. XXI, No. 6 durangotelegraph.com

inside

T H E

O R I G I N A L

I N D I E

W E E K L Y

Off the couch How a puppy can change even the most exercise averse p4

L I N E

O N

The great debate Passions heated as city takes on e-bike issue once again p9

D U R A N G O

&

B E Y O N D

Born to create Reclusive Durango artist blends music, art and culinary p11

WINTER/SPRING WINTER/SPRING 2022 Program Guide

une in at 91.9 / 93.9 FM Tune T Or Stream Us @ KDUR.org

Voice oice to Our Community Since 1975 Giving V o Co

Fort Fort Lewis College 1000 Rim Drive Durango, Durango, Colorado 81301 Request Request Line: 970.247.7262 To Support: t: 970.247.7628 To Suppor

KDUR, volunteer-powered community radio, creates a bridge between F Fort ort Lewis College and La Plata County, offering diverse music, alternative news, and local public affairs programming. KDUR provides educational and training opportunities in a professional setting for Fort Fort Lewis College students and community members.

6:00

M

T

MONDAY MORNING MUSIC

LOVELY DAY RADIO Soul, Motown & ffunk! unk!

STEPH

Various Styles ERNIE & JASON

8:00 4 CORNERS ARTS ARTS FORUM

9:00

Art, Music & Culture Art, Culture from the Southwest

CRISTEN CRIST EN ALEXANDRIA ALEXANDRIA

GOREY GLORY

9:30

Hard Indie Rock with Femalee Vocal Vocalists Femal ists SABS

3:00

5:00 5:30 6:00

COUNTERSPIN F.A.I.R. F.A .I.R. Program Covering Under-Reported News

BE LOCAL RADIO Listen & LLive ive Like A Local EMILY & LOUISE

F

TOLL TOLL FREE RADIO

Song Songss You You Didn’t Know You You Needed

LINDSAY

PRACTICUM New Music Mix STUDENT DJS

PRACTICUM New Music Mix STUDENT DJS

NO REGERTS RADIO Indie/College Indie/College Rock

Center Left Right & Ce Left, nter

News, Politics & Humor Get AAllll Sides of the Issues

ROCK N’ SOUL SPUTNIK

UPBEAT

Music That’s Good for the Soul

JEFF

DANTE’S INFERNO

Heavy, Catchy Riffs & Blast Beats

OVERNIGHT OVERNIGHT OVERNIGHT OVERNIGHT

POZZI

BITE BITE THE SUN

Various Rock, Indie DJ SKODEN

PRACTICUM New Music Mix STUDENT DJS

PRACTICUM New Mus ic Mix Music STUDENT DJS

BILLY’S SUNDAY BRUNCH

Music that Connects & Heals the Heart

WILL

ROCKIN’ IN THE DAYS OF CONFUSION Golden Gol den AAge ge of Radio Noon to 1pm

THURSDAY THURSDAY AFTERNOON MOUNTAIN MUSIC & ONE MAN’S TRASH RADIO! MULTICULTURAL MAYHEM MULTICULTURAL Rockcentric Mix of Many Genres Your Favorites!

Music They Have BRYANT & MICHELE

GETTIN” GET TIN” COZY WITH WITH POZZI Oldd Fusion of New & Ol 7am to 9am

JIM CROSS & JOHN PEEL

KEITH

S

INCARNACION

DISASTER AREA

Rock & Reverb frfrom om All Alll Over O STEVE ST EVE LATINO USA

LE SHOW

A Stew of Talk, Music & Politicall Commentary Noon to 1pm MUSIC WITH MEANING

& Lyrics that Speak MO

THE THE NOT SO INDIE SHOW

Indie, But Not Really Reall alllyy

CROWN

THIS AMERICAN LIFE

Host Ira Glass Takes YYou ou Throughh Slices of Real Throug American American Life & Issues

THE SUNDAY SHAKEDOWN

THIS WAY OUT

YOUR MUSIC LESSON

Radio News Mag Magzine zine Coveringg Issues Iss in Latino Communities

LA KMACHIN K-MACHIN Regional & National Mexican Music El CHAVO

HEARTBEAT OF ZION Irie Friday RASTA STEVIE RASTA

THE HORSE SHOW

Bluegrass: Ol Oldd & New

THE VOID Where Madness Reigns EV

Turbo Rock, Fantasy Rock ... & More!

Billy Stringss The Bill lyy String Power Hour CRITTER CRIT TER

MOUNTAIN BUM HOUR

MOONLIGHT BATH PARTY

THE VELVET CRANK

FIRE ON THE MOUNTAIN

STUCK IN THE PSYCHEDELIC ERA hlly Music from roug roughly 19 64-1970 1964-1970

NO WORD LoFi/HiFi Instrumentall Vibes CB

ALTERNATIVE RADIO

Featuring Some of the Leading Speakers & Free Thinkers From Around Around the World

REZBILLY BREAKDOWN STEPHANIE & PATRICK

Bluegrass, Folk, Indie, Ect.

LYD

TBD

DANTE

OVER OVERNIGHT NIGHT

MATT KENNA & JP

S

CROSS CR OSS & PEEL Sports Tal Talkk Radio

CAMBRIAN EX EXPLOSION PLOSION HAUNTED HIGHWAY A VINYL FETISH Old Rock, New Life Life Up-Tempo AAlternative lternative Rock, Spectral Sounds from JEFF Old & New ‘50s to the Void the ‘50s NANCY BONNIE JEANNE

IT’S ALL MUSIC Rock of All All Kinds JEFF

8:00

12AM

BBC World New Newss Hour 8:00 - 9:00

AUDIENCE OF 1 RADIO OF THE Long Live BLASTED WEST College Col lege Radio Rock, AAltlt Country JON DOUGLAS

6:30

10:00

COUNTRY WESTERN RY & WE STERN WAKEMAN & THE BAKER THE COUNT BLEND MORNIN’ BLE ND Acoustic Bluegrass & Acoustic Playin’ Both Kinds of Music JJ & DOUG KICKIN’ SCHMIDT

Noon - 1:00 pm THE ROCK & ROLL CIRCUS Psychedelic, Psychedel ic, Garage, Rolll Rock & Rol NICKY VOX

Oldd 45’s Ol 45’s DAVENPORT

9:00

TIMBUKTU & BEYOND West African Music MARGY

TR

Democracy Now! The War and Peace Report.

A National, Daily, Independent, News Program Hosted by Pacifica Radio Journalists Journalists Amy Goodman & Juan Juan Gonzalez

12PM

1:00

OFF THE RIM What’s Going On, On & Off Campus DEBBIE HIGGS

W

OVERNIGHT

ENCOUNTERS Alaska Nature Radio From Al aska

Gay, Lesbian & Bi-Sex Bi-Sexual ual Issues Radio News Magazine

Dark & Hil Hilarious arrious & Metal

LLiggett iggett On Music: Live and On Tape!

Live

DAN

JESS & JONATHAN

CRANKY OLD GUY & KYNAN

Good Ol Oldd Grateful Dead

WAVERING STRANGERS

BIRD UP!

LOST IN TTHE HE GROOVES A LLabrynth abr brrynth ynth of Vinyl DJ BAT BATCH CH

NOCTURNAL TRANSMISSIONS Garag e, Psych, Punk Garage,

TBD

OVERNIGHT

OVERNIGHT

OVERNIGHT OVERNIGHT

Music to Bathe/Party

A Ambiguous mbiguous A Americana mericana

Punk Rock for the Soul

TOM KIPP

BIRDIE

OVERNIGHT

OVERNIGHT OVERNIGHT

CAPTAIN

MEAN MIKE

Thanks to the Local Businesses that Support KDUR...Please Support Them!

2 n Feb. 10, 2022

telegraph

lineup

4

4 La Vida Local

Off the couch

4 Thumbin’ It

When a puppy forces you into exercise, there’s no use fighting it

by Zach Hively

5 Word on the Street 6-7 Soapbox

9

9 Top Story

Round & round Durango still torn on whether to allow e-bikes on natural trails

Ear to the ground “It’s like a mini-version of the Jersey Shore.”

– Has anyone been to Ouray Hot Springs lately? It’s a scene, man...

Passing the torch

thepole

RegularOccurrences

Another big change is coming for a longtime local mainstay. This time, it’s Durango’s first brewpub: Carver Brewing Co. Owners Bill and Jim Carver announced this week that the Main Avenue brewery will be changing hands. But it will stay in familiar hands, those of Bill’s children, Claire and Colin.

The Carvers started the beloved downtown brewery in 1988, making it the first brewpub in the Four Corners region. But, the Carver brothers told The Durango Telegraph this week it’s time for the next generation to take over.

“We’re really excited about it,” Jim Carver said.

“It just felt like a really good time for us to step away, and for Claire and Colin to step in.”

11 Between the Beats

by Jonathan Romeo

12-13 Stuff to Do

11

13 Ask Rachel

Reclusive artist Ralph De Vera mixes culinary, art & music

14 Free Will Astrology

The Carvers at their first venture, a bakery in Winter Park.

Renaissance man

by Stephen Sellers

15 Classifieds 15 Haiku Movie Review

14

Indecent proposal

On the cover: Local-ultra runner Jason Schlarb takes advantage of spring-like conditions for a trail run in Sand Canyon./ Photo by Stephen Eginore

Trying to score a date with Rachel?

Well, you may want to think again...

boilerplate

by Rachel

EDITORIALISTA: Missy Votel missy@durangotelegraph.com

STAR-STUDDED CAST: Zach Hively, Stephen Sellers, Lainie Maxson, Rob Brezsny and Clint Reid

REAL WORLD ADDRESS: 679 E. 2nd Ave., Ste E2 Durango, CO 81301

ADVERTISING SALES: telegraph@durangotelegraph.com

MAILING ADDRESS: P.O. Box 332 Durango, CO 81302

PHONE: 970-259-0133

STAFF REPORTER: Jonathan Romeo jonathan@durangotelegraph.com

VIRTUAL ADDRESS: www.durangotelegraph.com

T

he Durango Telegraph publishes every Thursday, come hell, high water, beckoning singletrack or monster powder days. We are wholly owned and operated independently by the Durango Telegraph LLC and

E-MAIL: telegraph@durangotelegraph.com MAIL DELIVERY AND SUBSCRIPTIONS: $3.50/issue, $150/year

distributed in the finest and most discerning locations throughout the greater Durango area.

We’re only human. If, by chance, we defame someone’s good name or that of their family, neighbor, best

friend or dog, we will accept full responsibility in a public flogging in the following week’s issue.

Although “free but not easy,” we can be plied with schwag, booze and flattery.

telegraph

Bill, 60, and Jim, 65, moved to Durango in 1986. It didn’t take long for them to open Carvers, which at the time was a brewery and bakery. Mind you, it was also a time when large, multinational companies dominated the beer industry. The craft brewery scene we all now know and love was just starting out.

Now, Jim says Claire and Colin – after going off to school, living around the world and working a variety of jobs – are ready to take on the family business. “They were raised around the brewpub, that’s all they’ve ever known, and they’re excited about it, which is the biggest crux,” Jim said. “Because you have to be excited to run this place.”

The Carvers said no big changes are imminent for the brewery as the transition happens, and they still plan to call Durango home.

“We feel tremendous gratitude for the support of the Durango community over the years,” they said in a statement.

No word if the new owners will bring back the dearly departed schneck. We can only hope.

Giving back Got warm clothes, extra toiletries and kitchenwares? For February, Pine Needle Dry Goods, 858 Main Ave., will be collecting these items to go to Volunteers of America Colorado, which operates two shelters and provides services to Durango’s unhoused and veterans in need.

Needed items include: • Warm coats, jackets, hats, gloves, socks, scarves and boots.

• Shampoo, conditioner, soap, deodorant, toothbrushes, toothpaste, tampons/pads, shaving cream and razors.

• Mugs, bowls, pots, pans, Tupperware and reusable water bottles.

All clothing should be washed and in good condition, and toiletries must be new and in original packaging. Drop off items between 10 a.m.-6 p.m., seven days a week.

Feb. 10, 2022 n

3

opinion

LaVidaLocal Mother Rucker I have decided to become the human version of P.F. Flyers: I want to run faster and jump higher – or at least endure nominal physical exertion without hurting my back.

I have also decided to embrace who I really am, which is a man deeply averse to exercise. I have tried it all. Running never gave me that mythical high. Swimming never enhanced my hearing with swimmer’s ear. And tennis? Well, I quite like my elbows just the way they are.

Yet for all the distaste and disdain I have for exercise, I LOVE being active. Who doesn’t love activities? This is a word we use to coerce children and child-like adults into keeping themselves occupied for at least five minutes a stretch. “Let’s do an activity!” could lead to ANYTHING. Building the Tower of Giza or the Pyramid of Pisa out of clothespins and pasta is an Activity. Digging for the Lost Ark is an Activity. Picking up the trash that blows in from the neighbor’s yard like money-seeking relatives in the night?

Most definitely an Activity.

In fact, the only thing better than an Activity is a NEW Activity. This is really quite Zen, if you don’t think about it too hard: it’s the doing that matters with Activities, much more than the finishing, and if a new Activity gives your caretaker 10 more minutes of effing peace and quiet, you best believe there will always be a new Activity.

Of course, I don’t get such inventive variety with my Activities these days, because I spend all my time walking the dog.

Both my faithful readers will remember that I recently adopted Ryzhik, who requires approximately 17 consecutive hours of exercise each day. This contrasts with my other dog, Hawkeye, who, like me, prefers Activities to exercise. We are really quite alike, Hawkeye and I, and the similarities go far beyond our matching rugged handsomeness. I like throwing balls, and Hawkeye likes fetching them. I also like throwing sticks, which Hawkeye also likes fetching. We both enjoy the pure being-ness of being outside, and we both will turn around and head home rather than talk to strangers out there in the world. We will also congratulate each other on a 10-minute constitutional well done, and then settle in on the couch to re-binge a season of “Daredevil.”

So Ryzhik has forced a bit of adjustment in our lives. It now takes three to four days to binge a full season. And walking is now a regular form of exercise, especially if I don’t want someone pulling all the coats off all the hooks in all the rooms of the house, sometimes with the hooks still attached.

Ryzhik is that freakish beast who revels in exercise but can’t stand Activities. For a block of time each day, we leave Hawkeye at home for some of that well-warranted effing peace and quiet, and we go out for a destructionprevention walk. Rather, I walk – and Ryzhik leaps up cliffs, digs up rabbit dens, disappears to join the circus and returns with exotic animal skulls in his maw. He truly is a P.F. Flyer, and the reason I want to become one too is the dread that someday I will have to carry all 75 pounds of him home.

Fortunately, I have a brotherin-law. Let’s call him “Scott” because that is his name. Scott is the sort of man who was born capable of lifting refrigerators.

For a long time now, he has been rucking, which is the fine art of powerwalking with the equivalent mass of a Ryzhik in a backpack.

“Teach me,” I said, because even after whole decades of Activities, I am more likely to empty a fridge than move it.

So Scott got me started, and we started smart. I selected a moderately petite rock, and Scott had me wrap it in duct tape so it wouldn’t chew up my pack. I strapped the pack to my back and took the first steps of turning Ryzhik’s walks into an Activity – hey, let’s go carry rocks for an hour! It’ll be fun!

And it was, both times. I could practically feel myself getting stronger and less resistant. It’s amazing the difference that five to six whole pounds made in my worldview. Until those pounds made me take up new Activities, like “should I take two or three ibuprofen this morning,” “where’s the ice pack,” and “Epsom salt baths.” Much less P.F. Flyer, much more penny loafer. Which is OK, too, because from now on, I’ll make the dog carry the rocks – in preparation for the day he needs to carry me home.

Thumbin’It A new nursing degree at Fort Lewis College that aims to tackle a shortage of nurses while bolstering rural health care in the Four Corners, according to a report in The Denver Post.

A giant donut-shaped machine that runs on nuclear fusion providing a near-limitless clean power source is possible for a sustainable future. Did someone say donuts?

A proposed Colorado state bill would prevent employers from firing workers for using marijuana. Wait… they can still do that? Oh crap, scrap that donut joke. It’s a dead giveaway.

4 n Feb. 10, 2022

– Zach Hively

Sign of the Downfall: Rep. Lauren Boebert once again earning a spot on the thumbs down list, this time for calling the threatened greater sage grouse a “mediocre bird” not worthy of protections. What does that even mean?

You know what? No. Not going to try to break that down.

A dead gray fox found in La Plata County tested positive for canine distemper, which is transmissible to pets. Colorado Parks and Wildlife recommends pets be vaccinated and leashed (you know who you are).

Because of climate change, researchers estimate a significant reduction in suitable crop growing regions for coffee over the next few years… WHAT!? OK, this climate change stuff just got real.

telegraph

SickTok The newest craze on TikTok is “tanning nasal spray,” and yes, hordes of TikTokers are stupid enough to believe it works. The company behind this latest scam, Permatan, says its spray functions by stimulating melanin production, and they go further to say their product is safe to use in conjunction with tanning beds, which is a red flag on the same level as, “I don’t live with my mom, but she lives with me.” Side effects of Permatan include nausea, hives and fluctuating libido, according to a doctor who went on record to sound the alarm, but they do not include getting a tan.

WordontheStreet With Valentine’s Day celebrating the season of love, the Telegraph asked, “What’s the worst date you’ve ever been on?”

Q

TSA IS NOW HIRING

Transportation Security Officers

Positions starting at $19.44 per hour*

Layne

“I had a date throw up on my lap.”

Julie

“I met a guy in a grocery store line.

We went on a first date and he used a coupon.”

Jennifer

“Met a guy for drinks, had one drink, and he asked to split the check.”

TSA Virtual

Recruiting Event for Durango – La Plata County Airport Earn a $1,000** sign-on bonus

Thursday, February 17 10 a.m. and 12 p.m.

Text “COL” to 95495 for more information and to RSVP

Geoffrey

“I got really drunk at El Rancho before a date, and then we went to Ken & Sue’s and they refused to serve us.”

Marshall

“I was on a date and she was a pain in the butt, so I went to the bathroom and left the restaurant.” telegraph

Learn more at

jobs.tsa.gov/events U.S. citizenship required. Equal opportunity employer. *Pay rate varies by location. **Some conditions apply.

Feb. 10, 2022 n 5

SoapBox

D-Tooned/by Rob Pudim

Melting Olympics As world temperatures warm, the need to create artificial snow at the Winter Olympic Games increases, burdening water and energy supplies. This practice, like much of modern life, increases greenhouse gas emissions and contributes to ever higher temperatures. It is estimated that the Beijing 2022 Winter Olympics will use almost 49 million gallons of water to make enough snow for the events.

Historically, artificial snow was first used to subsidize low natural snow levels in the 1980 Winter Olympics in Lake Placid. In 2014, around 80% of snow at the Sochi Winter Olympics was man-made, and this rose to 90% at the Pyeongchang Winter Olympics in South Korea in 2018.

A startling new study in the Current Issues in Tourism Journal shows that only one of the 21 previous Winter Olympic locations will have enough ice and snowfall to host the games by 2080 if global emissions remain on the current path. The same study finds that by the same year, only nine cities globally will have enough snow to host the games.

We need to reduce our emissions with urgency and effective action. Placing a fee on carbon pollution can make clean energy alternatives more attractive and speed up our transition. We can preserve the Olympic tradition of coming together peacefully by working together to create a future that works for all.

– Susan Atkinson, Durango

Break the spell Recently, in The New York Times Magazine, there was an article about how brave officers from the Jan. 6, 2021 Capitol invasion are now coping mentally and physically.

Other than many cases of traumatic brain injury and other ongoing issues, what struck me the most was about an officer, still on medical leave from foot operations, who said that he knew Trump was primarily involved with the insurrection, yet he and his wife would vote for him again.

Searching FFor or That That Special Gif Gift? t?

wers...

Buy Your Flowers... yY our Bud Flo TThe he Best Kind!

GREAT STRAIN SELECTION SELECTIO ON • HASH & CONCENTR RA ATE • EDIBLES ED • SEED • CLONES PIPES • SMOKING ACCESSORIES • APPAREL • MJ LITER RA ATURE & CONSULTING • ATM ON SITE

G randview (Durango) Grandview RECREATIONAL RECREATIONAL ONLY ONLLYY 9am - 8pm 3377 CCounty ounty RRoad oad 232 (970) 426-43811 (9 70) 426-438

Bodo P ark Park

Cortez Cortez

(Durango)

MED 9am - 6:45pm / REC 9am - 8pm 72 72 Suttle Suttle Street Street Units Units F & G (970) (970) 259-3674 259-3674

MED & REC 9am - 8pm 1104 1104 E. Main St. St. Cortez, Cortez, CO CO 81321 81321 (970) (970) 426-4381 426-4381

The Alter native Resource 6 n Feb. 10, 2022

telegraph

Would you call on a babysitter, caught on your home video physically abusing your children, again?

There are still so many of my neighbors, your neighbors and 70 million that voted Republican in the 2020 presidential election that are forever going to be convinced that

Trump can do no wrong and should be back in The White House. If Trump dodges charges here, he might take over again. A handful of his clones could be successful as well.

The voting rights issue is at the top of the to-do list now. More – lots more – needs to be done to keep our country from becoming a dictatorship. Canada and other countries have the same uneasy feelings over where the U.S. is headed in a few short years.

It’s not easy to undo years of massive damages from an endless list. We need a collective mind cleaning to break the spell and The Big Lie in my humble opinion.

– Sally Florence, Durango

Big investments in ag Traditionally, the Colorado Department of Agriculture doesn’t ask for much. When department heads annually visit the Joint Budget Committee and outline their financial needs for the year, the department discusses potential projects but asks for little funding.

When the pandemic hit, we all noticed the consequences on our food supply chain: empty grocery store shelves and lack of access to fresh food impacted many communities.

As legislators, we committed to invest $76 million in stimulus funding to support Colorado agriculture and move our state forward on the road to recovery.

It’s gratifying to see how this investment has benefitted producers across our state. Thanks to Department of Agriculture Commissioner Kate Greenberg’s team, almost every county received money to help them promote, produce or process some form of agriculture.

Senate Bill 21-248 appropriated $5-$10 million to help farm-to-market processing infrastructure projects, such as storage or processing equipment, with grants and loans.

Applications are now being considered to award approximately $1.5 million in grants to producers across the state; a second round of applications closes Feb. 28.

Looking for the perfect Valentine s gift?

Another $10-$20 million will be available later this year through the Colorado Agricultural Future (CAF) Loan program, which will provide low interest loans for beginning farmers and ranchers, and those who come from communities traditionally underrepresented in agriculture. As loans are paid back, the fund will continue issuing more to help others wanting to start their career in agriculture.

Colorado Proud, a member-based organization that helps market Colorado grown, raised and processed food and agriculture products, was awarded $2.5 million through Senate Bill 21-203. This gave $1.284 million to help provide Colorado’s food and agricultural producers with the necessary support and assistance to improve current sales channels and create new market opportunities.

Colorado Proud helps members with marketing, technical support, logos, e-commerce and targeted campaigns.

Another program, Agriculture Drought Resiliency, created through Senate Bill 21-234, was awarded $3 million.

Within days of the bill signing, $15,000 was given to each of the 75 conservation districts in Colorado. Another $100,000 was paid into the Grazing District and Range Betterment Fund, and $1.57 million has now been awarded through the competitive grant program.

Additionally, $145,000 was awarded to CSU’s Producer Drought Education and Research, CoAgMet Soil Moisture Data and Post-Fire Watershed Assessment Training to assess soil moisture and create training and education materials about drought preparedness.

The Agriculture Efficiency Programs obtained $5 million to expand agricultural efficiency and soil health initiatives, thanks to Senate Bill 21-235. This total includes $2 million for soil health, an increasingly important part of sustainable agriculture, and $3 million is helping support energy efficiency and agrivoltaics projects that provide on-farm energy savings.

Finally, House Bill 21-1262 granted $36 million to The Agricultural Event Stimulus Grant for the National Stock Show, Colorado State Fair and local county fairs and agri-

cultural events.

The importance of agriculture in Colorado has not been forgotten as we invested millions of dollars into an industry that feeds, clothes, employs and sustains us all.

– Rep. Barbara McLachlan, D-Durango

10 below The heart’s scar aches under the collar of regret.

Cold meets colder.

Coat-closed to neck.

Hands trembling, fidgeting for warmth.

Useless pockets.

Breath after breath falling downward.

Could’ve, should’ve rewinds. Trudging onward, path submerged.

Quickened pace.

Winds shift head on… frosted eyelids, lips and chin.

Footfalls slow.

Hope of fires Beating, beating in a numbing skull.

Nerve to bone, the cosmos of cells, each to its own, shudder.

Light through trees, sparkling.

Deepening drifts blanketing.

A Fading diamond light.

Too far to go.

Too far!

– Burt Baldwin, Ignacio

We put the “win” into “winter.”

Hours: mon - Fri 11-6 & Sat 11-5: www.jimmysmusic.supply 1239 Main Ave • 970-764-4577 telegraph

Feb. 10, 2022 n 7

8 n Feb. 10, 2022

telegraph

TopStory

The great e-bike debate Passions heated over whether to open city-managed trails to new use

by Jonathan Romeo

A

fter years of debate, it appears Durango remains divided on allowing electric bikes on natural trails.

“It’s a passionate topic right now, and it’s breaking my heart people feel like they’re not being heard,” Amy Schwarzbach, the natural resource manager for the City of Durango, said. “Because we are doing our best to hear everyone and strike a balance. That’s why the process isn’t overnight or knee-jerk.”

In the past decade, e-bikes have become increasingly popular, but the number of sales has soared since the COVID-19 pandemic. In 2021 alone, an estimated 370,000 e-bikes were sold in the United States.

And in places where e-bikes are allowed on trails, like Jefferson County, the amount of people riding has skyrocketed.

For many, e-bikes offer a way for people with physical limitations to get back in the saddle and hit the trails. For others, e-bikes provide an easier way to get into mountain biking or to cover longer distances in less time.

But the relatively new mode of recreation presents some challenges on trails, namely concerns with over crowding, speeding and safety. Also, it’s been noted by wildlife officials that e-bikes allow more people to get deeper into the backcountry, disturbing wildlife that has few remaining places of refuge.

But the main issue at hand in Durango: e-bikes are not allowed on natural-surface trails, not uncommon for most municipalities or land management agencies. For the past couple years, the city has started conversations on what, if any, trails should be open to e-bikes. A test period on the Twin Buttes trail system, a popular route mostly used by mountain bikers, just ended, forcing the next passionate round of conversations among very dedicated user groups.

But no decision is near.

“From the outside looking in, it’s easy to think of e-bikes as a simple yes or no question,” Anthony Savastano, who serves on the city’s Parks and Rec advisory board, said. “But I think there’s a lot of concern related to conflict and the unknowns. Personally, I’m torn.”

Moto-crossed For starters, it might be helpful to define what an e-bike is. An e-bike, at first glance, pretty much looks like a regular mountain bike. However, e-bikes run on an electric motor that’s powered by a battery. The power of the e-bike can vary, but most generally run at about 750 watts, the legal limit in the U.S. E-bikes are broken down into three classes: • Class 1 provides assistance when you pedal, up to 20 mph.

• Class 2 powers your ride even when not pedaling, capped at 20 mph.

• Class 3 is pedal-assisted and can reach up to 28 mph when pedaling.

For all intents and purposes, e-bikes are motorized and are classified as such by land management agencies. Yet advocates say e-bikes should not be lumped in with other motorized vehicles, like off-road vehicles and dirt bikes, and should

A biker makes her way up the final switchback to a well-deserved rest atop the Twin Buttes Trail late last year. After a trial to see how e-bikes co-exist with other trail users, the Durango City Council will make a decision on whether or not to allow e-bikes permanently on the trail system west of town./ File photo be allowed on trails where regular mountain bikes are permitted.

Figuring out the balance The City of Durango has been toying with the idea of opening select trails to e-bikes for some time. In 2018, the city allowed e-bikes on paved trails, including the Animas River Trail, Goeglein Gulch Road Trail, SMART 160 Trail and the Three Springs Trail, among others.

Then, in June 2020, the city launched a one-year e-bike trial period at Twin Buttes, a mostly one-directional singletrack system west of town. A major reason that trail was selected was because it does not cross city-owned conservation easements or federal lands, where e-bikes are not permitted.

As part of the test period, the city surveyed people out on the trail to gauge their experiences with e-bikes. Despite 83% of respondents identifying as cyclists (just 12% were hikers), only 57% of those surveyed thought e-bikes should be allowed on the Twin Buttes trails.

“The Twin Buttes trial period was very successful,” Schwarzbach said. “But it was not a landside of people in favor. We have a very split community. And that’s why

telegraph

it’s not a quick decision, because we’re figuring out the right balance.”

Open the gates A public hearing Feb. 2 about the Twin Buttes trial period drew mostly staunch advocates of e-bikes.

Many people highlighted that e-bikes allow people with physical limitations who couldn’t otherwise power a traditional mountain bike to enjoy the outdoors. And, to deny people that opportunity is a bias against people with disabilities, some said.

“The opinions and preferences of fully entitled and ablebodied trail users should not prohibit others who need help to enjoy soft-surface trails in Durango,” John Glover, a manager at Mountain Bike Specialists, said.

Michael Payne, a Durango resident, said there’s little difference between e-bikes and regular mountain bikes on the trail, and there are ways to offset potential impacts. Indeed, many people suggested directional trails, specific user days and increased signage about trail etiquette. It was also argued that conflicts on trails happen regardless, and it’s unfair to pin the issues solely on e-bikes.

Feb. 10, 2022 n

9

E-Bikes from p. 9 “Even when you’re 80 years old, you need cardio fitness,” Payne said. “Even Ned Overend (Durango mountain biker extraordinaire) is going to be on an e-bike in 15 years.

We all get old.”

Lo and behold, Overend, in attendance, said with so many bikers out on public lands, it may be necessary to designate trails specifically for hikers. “And we have enough trails here where we can do that,” he said. “We’re very fortunate.”

Not so fast E-bikes, of course, are not without detractors.

Many worry about safety to other trail users, like hikers, given that e-bikes can reach high speeds with little effort on narrow trails. While e-bikes do help people with disabilities recreate, there’s concern companies market the bikes for adrenaline junkies. And, with a motor, people can get farther into remote areas, increasing disturbance to wildlife.

Also in question – given e-bikes’ incredible popularity – what will happen to trail access points in neighborhoods adjacent to areas like Horse Gulch and Overend?

Eric Tomszak, who owns Myth Cycles, voiced concerns that rental businesses push e-bikes on tourists (who may not have necessary skills), possibly creating chaos on trails.

Did Moab anticipate razors when opening the town to offroad vehicles?, he asked.

“This is a new and honestly powerful technology, and things are going to change as the technology evolves and e-bikes become more affordable and widespread,” he said.

“These decisions will be in place for a long time, and we should move forward cautiously.”

One major critique reiterated is the unknowns – and unintended consequences – of opening trails to e-bikes (for instance, companies are now making e-bikes designed specifically for hunters, so they can haul out animals from areas where off-road vehicles are not allowed).

As a prime example, since the city started discussing ebikes on trails, Schwarzbach said people commented that if e-bikes are permitted, dirt bikes should be, too. How would that precedent affect other city trails or federal lands?

“E-bikes are motorized vehicles,” Keith Ashmore, a Durango resident and cyclist, said. “And I’m concerned about the slippery slope when the next guy comes and says, ‘I’m on a motorcycle, why can’t I use the trail?’”

Laying down the law Perhaps an even more difficult hurdle than gaining a majority of public support looms for e-bikes: the law and the interconnected reality of Durango trails with federal lands.

Many city-owned public lands around Durango (like Horse Gulch, and Dalla and Overend mountain parks) were acquired through GOCO lottery money as land trusts now held by La Plata Open Space Conservancy. These lands are under what’s known as a conservation easement, which do not allow any motorized vehicles.

To change this rule would likely require a lengthy legal process. Yes, many of these areas have become mountain biking meccas, but conservation easements, by law, must take into account a range of values, such as wildlife and natural resources – not just one specific recreational use.

“Those easements are meant to protect many values,” Steve McClung, an ex-officio member of the city’s Natural Lands Preservation advisory board, said Feb. 2. “Be prepared, through the looking glass, that might be a high hurdle the city will encounter.”

And, what happens when a Durango trail crosses federal lands managed by the Forest Service or Bureau of Land Management, where e-bikes are not allowed?

Where to ride?

This is all not to say e-bikes don’t have places to ride (one tally shows more than 160 miles of trails in the area).

As mentioned above, e-bikes are allowed on paved Durango trails. On Forest Service lands, e-bikes are allowed on all roads and trails open to vehicles, as well as those open to smaller motorized vehicles like motorcycles. They are not, however, allowed on trails designated for non-motorized use.

In 2019, the BLM moved to open more trails to ebikes. Now, BLM land managers can open trails permitted for mountain bikes to e-bikes. As a result, about 22 miles of new trails (on top of BLM motorized routes where ebikes are allowed) were opened up, mostly around Mancos and Cortez.

But because of the complications of land access and trail connectivity, no new additional routes on BLM land were opened around Durango, said Jeff Christenson, the BLM’s Tres Rios supervisory outdoor recreation planner. “Durango is tougher,” he said.

Also of note: two major new mountain bike parks – Bakers Park in Silverton and Durango Mesa Park in Durango – both plan to have an extensive network of miles of trails that will allow e-bikes once completed. (Of note, the organizers of Bakers Park did not originally include e-bikes, but they were put in by the BLM’s Gunnison office).

Uphill climb As for Durango’s parks, no decision on the e-bike question is near.

In the next few weeks, it’s likely that three advisory boards – Parks and Rec, Multimodal and Natural Lands Preservation – will provide their recommendations to Durango city councilors on whether to permanently allow ebikes on the Twin Buttes trail.

As far as e-bikes on other trails go, the city has created a subcommittee (three people from each advisory board) to decide on e-bikes in a larger sense. Each board has its own interests. Parks and Rec obviously focuses on recreation.

Multimodal looks at ways people can sustainably travel and reduce traffic. And Natural Land Preservation places an emphasis on natural resources.

And it may not be an all or nothing deal – it could be that some trails make sense, others don’t. But this process could take months.

“It’s such a big, nuanced conversation, and it’s a situation where there will be people unhappy one way or the other,” Savastano said. “But I think it comes down to: what sort of trail culture do we want for Durango?”

! "

10 n Feb. 10, 2022

telegraph

#

BetweentheBeats

Born to create Reclusive Durango artist blends music, art & culinary

by Stephen Sellers

kid. We didn’t have couches or anything. I was sitting in the corner, and my uncle was ablo Picasso once said that all chilwatching TV. I was drawing things in dren are born artists. The probthe air with my finger. If I drew a cirlem, he thought, was how to cle, I could see that circle for a few remain an artist as we grow up. minutes. So, I would keep For local Renaissance man adding on to it. So it was like, Ralph De Vera, the power of “If I add this, it looks like a discovery is what’s at the monkey.” One time, my center of thriving as an uncle looked over to me artist here or anywhere. and was like, “Would you De Vera is akin to stop doing that? You’re covert British street artist creeping me out! What and activist Banksy. He are you doing?” But, I keeps a low profile socould seriously see cially and has virtually these shapes floating in no digital footprint. He the air that I had eschews social media, drawn. I never really focusing on curating drew anything on genuine, analog experipaper, because we ences like pop-up dinweren’t supposed to. We ners, pop-art shows and were supposed to use community-focused drawpaper for learning. ing classes. If you enIt sounds like movcounter his work, consider ing to Durango was a yourself really, really lucky. huge transition.

During the week, De Vera Yeah, moving to Durango helps manage the kitchen of Duwas culture shock. I was getting rango’s beloved El Moro Tavern. In bullied really hard, and that’s when the rest of his time, he is a perpetual I started to channel my energy more machine of creativity, making world intentionally with music and art. It was class charcoal super bad. I’m sure it still is. There were no paintings, expericampaigns about it back then. My art teachers, I menting with mindtold a couple of them. And they were like, Charcoal drawing by De Vera. melting culinary “You can sit here, but you have to work. You techniques and have to pick up the paper and do the work writing metal/hardcore riffs on his guiwe’re doing.” So, I started producing stuff. Charcoal, pencil, watertar. His apartment is less a living space color. I did all of it, so I could stay out of those classes. and more a blend of high-end test What have you been working on lately? kitchen, DIY music studio and drawing Over the summer, I threw some pop-up dinners. These are all space. my creative outlets. I’m focused on three things. If I’m not doing This last summer, a few friends and I music, I’m doing culinary or fine art. As I’m getting older, I’m A rare glimpse of joined De Vera for a seven-course popstarting to figure out the flow and the understanding that I don’t Ralph De Vera up dinner he hosted at his apartment. need to impress anyone. All this stuff is to take care of my mental Hands down, I’ve never had a more inhealth and my physical health. spiring culinary experience in Durango, or frankly, anywhere. It Where do you get your inspiration? was practically a supernatural experience.

That’s the biggest and hardest thing about being creative. It De Vera embodies the spirit of so many artists in Durango. feels cocky to say, but yourself is your biggest inspiration. If Head down, focused on the process, doing it for the love and to you’re sad and down, create darker stuff. I went with charcoal leave a positive mark on the community. In the spirit of giving early on, because I wasn’t doing well, because of bullying or relamore space to Durango’s working-class artisans, I couldn’t wait to tionship issues. Now, I’ve come to realize that this is just a part of sit down with De Vera to discover more. me. And it’s OK. If you’re crying your eyes out, create something Where did you grow up? sad. Use your own energy to feed into that. Then, when you’re In 2002, I moved from the Philippines, where I grew up, happy, you’re gonna remember that sad song you wrote, play it straight to Durango. How crazy is that?! I was 15 years old. I refor someone. I guarantee you, it will pull on their heartstrings. ally didn’t have friends for a while when I moved here. I was a You keep a pretty low profile despite producing freshman in high school from the complete opposite side of the amazing food, art and music. Why? world. It was like living in a movie.

I like the natural discovery. When I was working at Nini’s, I’d The first 15 years of my life, I did not care about any kind of draw small things and put them in Saran wrap and put it all over music or media. I grew up poor. It was just game shows on the TV town. Like, “Here’s my Instagram, I hope you enjoy.” I’d always in the Philippines. I was basically running around the city just drop shit at the train station. It’s fun, learning and sharing. doing crazy, feral shit with my friends. That was more fun for me.

What keeps you in Durango?

We were doing little kid crime. Always getting in trouble. We would In Durango, you can do anything. It all comes down to how gamble with the little money we did have or just take off. Ride much money you wanna make. If you wanna make a lot of buses for hours and hours. Parents didn’t know where we were. money, get noticed really fast, go to Denver. But, what makes DuWhen did you discover your passion and talent for vi- rango special is that I feel the love and it feels genuine. I know sual art? these people, we recognize each other. They do the same thing, Growing up in the Philippines. I was sitting on a chair as a so they understand how much work goes into it.

P

telegraph

Feb. 10, 2022 n 11

StufftoDo

Thursday10 Gary Walker plays, 10 a.m.-12 p.m., Jean-Pierre Bakery & Restaurant, 601 Main Ave. Bingo night, 5 p.m., Fenceline Cider, Mancos.

Live music, 5:30 p.m.., Diamond Belle Saloon, 699 Main Ave. Live music, 5:30-8:30 p.m., Office Spiritorium, 699 Main Ave. Dustin Burley plays, 6 p.m., Fur Trapper’s Steakhouse, 701 E. 2nd Ave. La Plata Electric Association town hall meeting, 6 p.m. Pre-registration at lpea.coop.

Powerhouse Trivia Night, 6:30 p.m., Powerhouse Science Center, 1333 Camino del Rio. Geeks who Drink Trivia, 8 p.m., The Roost, 128 E. College Dr.

Friday11 Winter Bike to Work Day, commuters are encouraged to bike to work. Hosted by City of Durango.

Deadline for “Stuff to Do” submissions is Monday at noon. To submit an item, email: calendar@durangotelegraph.com

Free legal clinic, 4-5 p.m., Ignacio Library, 470 Goddard Ave.

Healthy Snacks Drive, 10 a.m.-12 p.m., healthy food donations collected at Durango Unitarian Fellowship, Pine River Library in Bayfield and Ignacio ELHI Community Center.

Animas Museum’s Second Saturday Seminar series, 1 p.m., local quilt expert and historian Patricia Joy will present “Quilts: 1885-1920.” More info at animasmuseum.org/events.html.

Après Ski Science & Social, 2 p.m., Andrews Lake parking area, just south of Molas Pass. Snowshoeing starts at 2 p.m., ends at 4 p.m., with beverages and bonfire after.

Reeder & Spencer play, 2 p.m., Purgatory Resort.

Lost Boys String Band plays, 3 p.m., Mountain Monk Coffee, 558 Main Ave. Lacey Black plays, 5-8 p.m., Lone Spur Café, 619 Main Ave.

Jazz Jam, 7-9 p.m., 11th Street Station.

Head for the Hills & Robin Davis duo play, 7 p.m., Animas City Theatre, 129 E. College Dr.

Saturday12 Lisa Parker’s Animal Rescue fundraiser, event runs Feb. 12-22. Register for auction at https://bit.ly/3IRSXDr. Guided snowshoe/ski tour of Red Mountain Mining District, 9 a.m.-1 p.m. More info and registration at www.uncompahgrewatershed.org/events.

Valentine Bazaar, 10 a.m.-5 p.m., featuring art, jewelry and items from local artists, Smiley Building, 1309 E. 3rd Ave.

Live music, 5:30-8:30 p.m., Diamond Belle Saloon, 699 Main Ave. Live music, 5:30-8:30 p.m., Office Spiritorium, 699 Main Ave.

Live music, 5:30-8:30 p.m., Diamond Belle Saloon, 699 Main Ave.

Live music, 5:30-8:30 p.m., Office Spiritorium, 699 Main Ave.

Live music, 5:30-8:30 p.m., Office Spiritorium, 699 Main Ave.

La Plata County Humane Society’s Pet Speed Dating Adoption event, 6 p.m., Ska Brewing, 225 Girard St. Meet puppies up for adoption.

The Lil Smokies with special guest Esther Rose, 6:30 p.m., Animas City Theatre, 129 E. College Dr. Chuck Hank plays, 7-10 p.m., 11th Street Station.

th

Jack Ellis & Larry Carver play, 6 p.m., Fur Trapper’s Steakhouse, 701 E. 2nd Ave.

Ben Gibson plays, 6 p.m., Fur Trapper’s Steakhouse, 701 E. 2nd Ave.

Acoustic Music Jam, 5-7 p.m., all instruments and styles welcome, vaccinated players only, 11th St. Station.

Live music, 5:30-8:30 p.m., Diamond Belle Saloon, 699 Main Ave.

Winter Bike to Work Day celebration, 5 p.m., Union Social House, 3062 Main Ave.

Live music, 5:30 p.m., The Office Spiritorium, 699 Main Ave.

Tuesday15

Wednesday16

The Pastor & Pagan play, 6-9 p.m., 11 Street Station.

Jack Ellis & Larry Carver play, 5:30 p.m., Diamond Belle Saloon, 699 Main Ave.

Alpine Bank Full Moon Howler, 6-9 p.m., Durango Nordic Center. Trails pass required, rentals available. www.durangonordic.org

Open mic night, weekly 7:30-9:30 p.m., Moe’s Starlight Lounge, 937 Main Ave.

Lacey Black plays, 5-8 p.m., Lone Spur Café, 619 Main Ave.

Matt Rupnow plays, 5:30 p.m., Mancos Brewing Co.

Live music, 5:30-8:30 p.m., Office Spiritorium, 699 Main Ave.

Suzy Bogguss plays, 7:30 p.m., Community Concert Hall at Fort Lewis College.

Ongoing

Second Saturday Series @ the INDIGO ROOM, 79 p.m., 1315 Main Ave. Featuring Tone Dog & Blue Grouse.

Chapman Ski Hill is open. Hours: Mon.-Fri., 3:30-8 p.m.; Sat.-Sun., 10 a.m.-4 p.m. For more info. go to: www.durangogov.org/chapmanhill.

Opiuo play, 7 p.m., Animas City Theatre, 129 E. College Dr.

The Hive Indoor Skate Park is open, offering open skate and skate lessons. Waivers required. For schedule and online waiver, go to www.thehivedgo.org

Sunday13

Julie Ann Ward: Transformative Light art show, opening reception 4:30-6 p.m. 1000 Rim Drive at Fort Lewis College. Exhibit runs until March 1.

Silent Sundays with Swanson, 2 p.m., Durango Arts Center, 802 E. 2nd Ave. An afternoon of Valentine’s Day theme silent films accompanied by pianist Adam Swanson.

Goddess workshop, 2 p.m., Mountain Monk Coffee, 558 Main Ave.

Upcoming Songwriter’s session, Feb. 17, 6-8 p.m., Mountain Monk Coffee, 558 Main Ave. Silverton Skijoring, Feb. 19-20, events all day.

Open mic night, 5 p.m., Fenceline Cider in Mancos.

Live music, 5:30-8:30 p.m., Diamond Belle Saloon, 699 Main Ave. Live music, 5:30-8:30 p.m., Office Spiritorium, 699 Main Ave.

Telefestivus Telemark Festival, Feb. 19, free demos, Purgatory Resort.

Bluegrass Jam, Feb. 20, 4-6 p.m., Mountain Monk Coffee, 558 Main Ave. Bet the Farm presentation, Feb. 21, 6:30-7:30 p.m. More info. at facebook.com/animasvalleygrange.

Monday14 Live music, 5:30-8:30 p.m., Diamond Belle Saloon, 699 Main Ave.

"% '

Great Decisions 2022 talk, Feb. 22, 11:45 a.m.1:45 p.m. Register at lwvlaplata.org. Topic is drug policy.

'

'

& !

12 n Feb. 10, 2022

telegraph

" # '

&

!

&

& $ %

AskRachel

Makin’ no bones about it & falling flat Interesting fact: Bubbles in drinks carry aromatic compounds to the nose, heightening the perception of flavor. Plus, they just tickle the tongue. Sorry I can’t go any further into the science without arousing my audience.

Dear Rachel, I love the way you write, and you have published several of my questions in the past. I was just starting a fire with the Telegraph and came across one you wrote last April called “Dishing it out, withdrawal and getting boned.” I have some ideas about that last part, which I was going to share, but decided it might not be appropriate. Anyway, I think you can guess, and I’m sure you get plenty of offers (pink heart emoji).

– Bill T Dear Mr. T, Since you’re dishing it, bub, I presume you can take it: get yerself ready for some withdrawals. Because this is NOT how you get to bone anybody, except whichever hand you’re not using to attempt punctuating your letters (Presuming you’re using one hand to type at all and not using… oh god, this would explain SO MUCH).

Why do men think that leading with “I want to bone you,” or even, “I want to bone you, but I won’t say so, because it might not be appropriate” will ever work?

Give enough monkeys enough time with enough typewriters, and not even they will bang out a scenario

where that proposition sounds enticing. When you lead with that, you’re telling me that all you have to offer me is your bone. Not your wit (if any), not your charm (if possible), not your money (as if) or your personality (such as it is).

If all I’m getting is a bone, I am sure as hell not going for one with emotional and bacterial baggage. I’m ordering one online, and it will have more five-star ratings than you do. Also, no amount of innuendo will make me think that an email sent to the generic Telegraph email address, by someone I have never met, who thinks I look like Jennifer Aniston when really, for all he knows, I might have a beard I haven’t shaved in two months, is sexy. It’s not. All you know about me is that I write this column, and that alone should not make me a target of your hard-on. But it does. It’s 2022, ladies and gentlemen and people who are both and neither. And you wonder why feminism is still a thing.

– I need a cigarette, Rachel Dear Rachel, I can’t understand why fizzy drinks taste so good when they have bubbles, and so horrendous once they go flat. La Croix doesn’t taste like a pamplemousse anymore, but like artificial flavors. Flat Coke tastes like a convenience store smells. And can you think of anything more gag-inducing than a beer opened yesterday? But all that’s missing are the little tiny bubbles of air that don’t taste like any of these things. What gives?

Email Rachel at telegraph@durangotelegraph.com – Bubble Yum Dear Popped Bubble, I apologize: Smacking down Mr. T took up my word count allotment this week. But, I sure can think of something more gag-inducing, so hey, there’s that. And get off your high horse about pamplemousse. You wouldn’t know a pamplemousse if it catcalled you and dry-humped your jeans.

Need tha thatt special gift?

W e ha ve We have L ove P otion Love Potion #9 #9,, 10 10,, 11 & 12!

Find us a at: t: 72 St. 7 2 Suttle S t.

Unit B Park Bodo P ark Durango Dur ango

The ar area’s ea’s bes bestt selection of vaping vaping products products

Premium e-liquids, e-cigs, local glas Premium glasss w water ater pipes, dab rigs & ac accessories cessories %

$$$

'

Your Y our Sour Source ce ffor or CBD Pr Products oducts

! $ !"

" &

#

T Tinctures inctures • E Edibles dibles • L Lotions otions • C Concentrates oncentrates "

!

"

970-247-1261 9 70-247-1261 inf info@swvapor.com o@swvapor.com

"!

telegraph

Feb. 10, 2022 n 13

FreeWillAstrology

by Rob Brezsny ARIES (March 21-April 19): “Real love is a pilgrimage,” declared author Anita Brookner. “It happens when there is no strategy, but it is very rare because most people are strategists.” That’s the bad news, Aries. The good news is that you have more potential than ever before to free your love of strategic maneuvering and manipulation. For the foreseeable future, I invite you to drop all romantic agendas and simply make yourself extra receptive to love’s teachings.

Are you ready to learn what you don’t even realize you need to know?

TAURUS (April 20-May 20): In the near future, I’ll be pleased if you dole out lavish praise to allies who enchant you. I will celebrate if you deliver loving inspirations and lush invitations to those who help you fulfill your reasons for being here on the planet. To get you in the mood, here are some suggested provocations. 1. “Your body makes mine into a shrine; holy, divine, god touched.” – Ramona Meisel. 2. “Your luster opens glories on my glowing face.” – Federico García Lorca. 3. “All night long if you want. We’ll tell our secrets to the dark.” – Gayle Forman. 4. “I’ll let you be in my dreams if I can be in yours.” – Bob Dylan. 5. “We are each other’s harvest. We are each other’s business. We are each other’s magnitude and bond.” – Gwendolyn Brooks.

GEMINI (May 21-June 20): In Gemini author Orhan Pamuk’s novel “Snow,” the main character Ka asks a woman named Ipek, “What is the thing you want most from me? What can I do to make you love me?” Ipek’s answer: “Be yourself.” In the coming days, Gemini, I would love you to engage in similar exchanges with those you care for.

According to my understanding of the astrological omens, now is a favorable time for you and your best allies to shed all fakery and pretense so that you may be soulfully authentic with each other – and encourage each other to express what’s most raw and genuine.

CANCER (June 21-July 22): Are you in the mood to make extravagant gestures in behalf of love? Are you feeling an urge to move beyond your habitual approaches to intimate togetherness as you dare to engage in fun experiments? Now is a good time for such behavior with allies you trust. To spur your imagination, immerse yourself in the spirit of this poem by Nizar Qabbani: “I abandon my dictionaries to the flames, / And ordain you my language. / I fling my passport beneath the waves, / And christen you my country.” Your homework: Dream up and carry out a playful and audacious venture that will energize one of your close relationships.

14 n Feb. 10, 2022

LEO (July 23-Aug. 22): I’ve created a list of splashy titles for stories or poems or songs or artworks or dances that you could compose for beloved allies or people you want to be beloved allies. I hope my list inspires you to get gushy and lyrical. I hope you’ll be creative and marvelous as you express your passionate appreciation. Here are the titles: 1. Glistening Passion. 2. Incandescent Rapture. 3. Succulent Dazzle. 4.

Molten Luminosity. 5. Splashy Fire Bliss.

6. Shimmering Joy Beams. 7. Opulent Delirium. 8. Wild Soul Synergy. 9. Sublime Friction. 10. Fluidic Gleam Blessings. 11. Throbbing Reverence. 12. Sacred Heart Salvation.

VIRGO (Aug. 23-Sept. 22): Author Eve Ensler tells us, “You have to give to the world the thing that you want the most, in order to fix the broken parts inside you.” This is perfect counsel for you to carry out in the coming weeks, Virgo. Life will conspire to help you heal yourself, in dramatic and even semi-miraculous ways, as you offer the people and animals you care for the same blessings that you crave to receive. I foresee an influx of restorative karma flowing in your direction. I predict the fixing of at least some of your broken parts.

LIBRA (Sept. 23-Oct. 22): In Michael Chabon’s novel “The Mysteries of Pittsburgh,” the character named Arthur says to the character named Cleveland, “Love is like falconry.

Don’t you think that’s true?” Cleveland replies, “Never say love is like anything.

It isn’t.” I propose we make that your meditation during this Valentine season, Libra. In accordance with astrological omens, you will be wise to purge all your preconceptions about love. Use your ingenuity to revive your innocence about the subject. Cultivate a sense of wonder as you let your imagination run wild and free in its fantasies about love and sex and intimacy.

SCORPIO (Oct. 23-Nov. 21): I’ll love it if sometime soon you create a situation in which you tell an ally words similar to what author Jamaica Kincaid spoke to her lover: “To behold the startling truths of your naked body frees me to remember the song I was born from.” Do you think you can make that happen, Scorpio? The astrological indicators at play in your life suggest that it would be right and sacred for you to do so. And if there is no such ally, then I hope you will deliver the same message to your naked self. And by the way, what is the song you were born from? (PS: There has never been a better time than now to learn treasured truths about yourself through your connections with others.)

telegraph

SAGITTARIUS (Nov. 22Dec. 21): I’m afraid I must be downright practical and mundane in my oracle for you.

Don’t hate me! I’m only reporting what the planetary omens are telling me. They say that now is a favorable time for you to practice, practice and practice some more the fine arts hinted at by author Ivan Goncharov: “A close, daily intimacy between two people has to be paid for: It requires a great deal of experience of life, logic and warmth of heart on both sides to enjoy each other’s good qualities without being irritated by each other’s shortcomings and blaming each other for them.” Be diligently positive, Sagittarius, as you work through the demanding daily trials of togetherness.

CAPRICORN (Dec. 22-Jan. 19): I’ll offer you a radical idea about love from author Hélène Cixous. Although it’s not always true for everyone, it will have special meaning for you in the coming months. She wrote, “It is easy to love and sing one’s love. That is something I am extremely good at doing. But to be loved, that is true greatness. Being loved, letting oneself be loved, entering the magic and dreadful circle of generosity, receiving gifts, finding the right thank-you’s, that is love’s real work.” Are you willing to expand your capacity to welcome the care, benevolence and inspiration coming your way from others?

AQUARIUS (Jan. 20-Feb. 18): Actor Leelee Sobieski was mourning her romantic adventures – or rather the lack of romantic adventures. She said, “If only I could find a guy who wasn’t in his 70s to talk to me about white cranes, I’d be madly in love.” The good news is that Sobieski knows precisely what she wants, and it’s not all that complicated. The bad news is that there are few men near her own age, 38, who enjoy discussing the fine points of the endangered bird species known as the white crane. I bring her predicament to your attention, Aquarius, in the hope that you’ll be inspired to be as exact and lucid as she is in identifying what you want – even as you cheat just a bit in the direction of wanting what is actually available.

PISCES (Feb. 19-March 20): I’ve never offered you the wisdom of actor Natalie Portman, but her idealistic attitude about relationships is exactly what I think you should aspire to in the coming months. She said, “I always ask myself, would I want someone to do something that wasn’t comfortable for them to do just to please me? And the answer is no.” What do you think, Pisces?

Do you suspect it might be interesting to apply that principle to your closest alliances? I hope so. If you do, the planetary energies will conspire to deepen your intimate bonds.

classifieds

Deadline for Telegraph classified ads is Tuesday at noon. Ads are a bargain at 10 cents a character with a $5 minimum. Even better, ads can now be placed online: durangotelegraph.com. Prepayment is required via cash, credit card or check.

(Sorry, no refunds or substitutions.)

Ads can be submitted via: n www.durangotelegraph.com n classifieds@durango telegraph.com n 970-259-0133 n 679 E. 2nd Ave., #E2 Approximate office hours: Mon: 9ish - 5ish Tues: 9ish - 5ish Wed: 9ish - 3ish Thurs: On delivery Fri: Gone fishing; call first

Announcements Plant Based Durango New social group forming now! Learn more: https://mealprepmaven.net/plantbased-durango/

HelpWanted Receiving Mgr. - Maria’s Bookshop Now hiring avid reader for full time position as Shipping & Receiving Manager.

Applications available in-store and at mariasbookshop.com. App deadline: 2/25.

Classes/Workshops

Adulting Got You Down?

Therapy can help. Anne Hosey is a licensed professional counselor and therapist with a passion for supporting adults as they navigate adulting and its many challenges. Schedule your free 15-minute phone consultation at junipertreementalhealth.com.

Marketing Small/Local Businesses Media, website building and content editing, copywriting and editing, newsletters, blogs, etc. for small, local, independent or startup businesses. www.forward pedal.com or email jnderge@gmail.com Harmony Cleaning and Organizing Residential, offices, commercial and vacation rentals, 970-403-6192.

Lowest Prices on Storage!

Inside/outside storage near Durango and Bayfield. 10-x-20, $130. Outside spots: $65, with discounts available. RJ Mini Storage. 970-259-3494.

ForSale

Lotus Path Healing Arts Now accepting new clients. Offering a unique, intuitive fusion of Esalen massage, deep tissue & Acutonics, 24 years of experience. To schedule, call Kathryn, 970-201-3373.

HaikuMovieReview ‘The Sparks Brothers’ They are deft, odd, smart and tenacious I just wish I liked their music – Lainie Maxson

Massage by Meg Bush LMT, 30, 60 & 90 min., 970-759-0199. massageintervention.life Voted best massage in Durango 18/19/20. Couples, cupping, local CBD. Reviews on FB + Yelp. 970-903-2984

CommunityService SJBPH Vaccine Clinics Free vaccine mobile clinic provided by San Juan Basin Public Health. Pfizer (12+), Moderna (18+), and J&J (18+) are available. Contact 970-247-5702 or visit

https://sjbpublichealth.org/covid-19-vaccine/ for more information.

Volunteers Needed Alternative Horizons is in need of volunteer advocates, including those who are bilingual, to staff our 24-Hour hotline.

AH supports and empowers survivors of domestic violence. If you’d like to make a difference in the lives of others, join us March 30 through April 2, for a free, comprehensive training. For more information call 970-247-4374.

NewspaperOrigami

A kitty

Chapter 7 Bankruptcy Presentation Presented by Colorado Legal Services Tuesday, February 15th from 5:30 PM 7:00PM Please call 385-7378 ext 251 for details on how to attend or visit www.durangovap.org/events

ForRent Studio Apt. In-Town Cozy studio apt. Full bath, privacy in a lovely setting. $975/mo. utilities incl.

Email: specula1@gmail.com.

Wanted Cash for Vehicles, Copper, Alum, Etc. at RJ Metal Recycle. Also free appliance and other metal drop off. 970-259-3494.

Services KBR Chimney Sweeps Licensed and insured. Keep your chimney fire safe and creosote free! Call today for a clean! 970-844-9165.

Your French Trip Partner to France Traveling to France? I can be your trip partner! I am French, lived in Paris & Provence. fchpaillard@gmail.com

1986 Jeep Grand Wagoneer Explore the mountains this summer in style! Room for the kids and the dog!

Everything works. $2900. Call/text Linda 970-749-2995 Reruns Home Furnishings New inventory including dressers, side tables, rustic console, Urban Market industrial-style barstools and rugs … Come in today! 572 E. 6th Ave. Open Mon.-Sat. 385-7336.

BodyWork Sol Sparkle Hair Tinsel Be the Free Spirit in you with beautiful sparkles in your hair! Animas Trading Company 2/12 & 2/26, 1-5pm. txt 970769-7681 for app.

telegraph

Feb. 10, 2022 n 15

16 n Feb. 10, 2022

telegraph