Durango Telegraph - November 14, 2019

We don’t want to know

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FREE Nov. 14, 2019

Vol. XVIII, No. 46 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

L I N E

O N

D U R A N G O

&

B E Y O N D

Man with the plan

Middle ground

The Yocal

The 416’s Rob Powell, and his pointer, return to Durango p8

City explores options, opinions on e-mtb roll out p10

Talking turkey & other tasty tidbits p11

A perfect

10 (Issue 10 is here.)

Wherever you find the Telegraph or at www.gulchmag.com.

To find out about advertising opportunities, email: steve@gulchmag.com

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lineup

8

4 La Vida Local

’Round the horn Forum recognizes fire recovery efforts, brings in special guest of honor

4 Thumbin’ It

by Tracy Chamberlin

5 Word on the Street

10

6-7 Soapbox

City explores allowing e-bikes on natural surface trails

15 Day in the Life

10 Local News

Pedal to the metal

by Missy Votel

16 Flash in the Pan

11

17 Top Shelf

The Yocal

18 On the Town

How to Thanksgiving like a local and other tasty tips

20 Ask Rachel

by Local First

21 Free Will Astrology

15

22 Classifieds

Rolling in the deep

22 Haiku Movie Review

A trip to the gypsum underground On the cover: Andrew Temple wraps up after a day on the crag in Bears Ears./ Photo

by Stephen Eginoire

photos by Stephen Eginoire

In the trillions According to economists, Medicare for All would cost $39 trillion over the next decade, costing approximately $6-$10 trillion less than the Affordable Care Act over the same period. A letter to the editor last week, “Better health care that costs less” overstated the amount. We apologize for the error.

16

Blue notes 80 years of jazz, Cherry bomb, and beers and boards

by Chris Aaland

boilerplate

EDITORIALISTA: Missy Votel (missy@durangotelegraph.com) ADVERTISING AFICIONADO: Lainie Maxson (lainie@durangotelegraph.com) RESIDENT FORMULA ONE FAN: Tracy Chamberlin (tracy@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

STAR-STUDDED CAST: Lainie Maxson, Chris Aaland, Clint Reid, Stephen Eginoire, Jesse Anderson, Ari LeVaux, Tracy Chamberlin, Zach Hively, Shan Wells and Luke Mehall VIRTUAL ADDRESS: www.durangotelegraph.com

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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 shwag, booze and flattery.

telegraph

Ear to the ground: “So far, the most exciting part is someone’s name is ‘Chalupa.’”

– One local’s take after listening in on Wednesday’s impeachment hearings

Plastic passion

thepole

RegularOccurrences

The issue of banning single-use plastic bags is once again floating through the air. A group called Durango Beyond Plastic is urging like-minded residents to attend the City Council meeting next Tues., Nov. 19, at 6:30 p.m. to voice their support for a ban.

According to the group, Durango hands out 100,000 bags per day, much of which ultimately ends up as microplastic in our air, water and soil.

If Durango banned single-use plastic bags, it would join numerous other Colorado towns, states and countries that have done likewise.

This is not the first attempt to eradicate the lowly plastic bag. In 2013, City Council approved a 10-cent fee on plastic bags distributed by the largest grocery stores, but that fee was later repealed by voters.

Regardless of what happens, The Kroeger Co., parent company of City Market, is taking its own steps to phase out plastic shopping bags by 2025.

De-fleecing The Backcountry.com saga trudges on. After a backlash over its attempts to sue small businesses who use “backcountry” in their names, the online monolith announced it will drop the lawsuits.

“We have heard your feedback and concerns and understand we fumbled in how we pursued trademark claims,” Backcountry CEO Jonathan Nielsen wrote in a letter on the retailer’s website last Wednesday. “In an attempt to protect the brand we have been building for nearly 25 years, we took certain actions that we now recognize were not consistent with our values, and we truly apologize.”

Specifically, Nielsen points to the suit against Michigan-based Marquette Backcountry Ski, a company that makes a snowshoe-ski hybrid. To make amends, the Utah e-tailing giant has agreed to partner with the company’s owner, David Ollila, to help grow his brand while donating money to two Michigan nonprofits that support innovation. It’s also hiring Ollila as a consultant.

Nielsen, in an interview with The Colorado Sun, said he hopes to reach deals with the other companies and has fired his team of lawyers from the heavy-hitting IPLA law firm.

“I think we definitely did not do it the right way, and we have caused harm in the community,” Nielsen said. “We are going to do a lot of listening and do a lot of apologizing and figuring out how we move forward.”

Despite the olive branch, Backcountry.com is not out of the woods yet. The company has not indicated it will be dropping the 50-plus requests with the U.S. Patent and Trademark office to cancel the trademarks of other companies using “backcountry.”

Instead, Nielsen said he will be reaching out to businesses, like Carbondale’s Cripple Creek Backcountry and the nonprofit Backcountry Babes, to come up with an amicable solution.

“What we found when we sat down with David is that we can sit down and talk about this and work something out,” he told the Sun’s Jason Blevins. “I’m hopeful we can do that with all the parties.”

Nov. 14, 2019 n

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opinion

LaVidaLocal Write for your rights At the end of this week I’m finishing up what has been the most successful book tour of my career. This Fri., Nov. 15, I’m headed down to a place I’ve never been, Bluff, Utah, to present at the Bears Ears Education Center with my friend and fellow climber Josh Ewing.

Like many other independently published writers, I sometimes have had a rough go on book tour. One time I drove seven-plus hours to Fort Collins to present at a bookstore where a whopping three people showed up. Later on that same tour, I went to Longmont where one guy showed up at the brewery where I was supposed to present. I ended up just having a beer with the guy and talking to him.

Those moments seem comical now. At the time, they were heartbreaking. Such is life. We learn from our failures just as much as our successes. And how we react to our failures often defines our careers.

Three years ago, when I began dreaming up this latest book – The Desert – I was in a sort of inner turmoil. Trump had just been elected, and I was angry AF. I was sure that someone with a message like his would never rise to the presidency. Of course, I was wrong.

I’m not sure why I had so much faith in America, but perhaps it’s how and where I was raised. I grew up in Bloomington, Ill., in a diverse neighborhood. I guess at the time I thought that’s what all of the United States were like.

Perhaps Trump only won because he had the perfect candidate to beat. Maybe he won because he really tapped into an America that progressives dismissed. Maybe he energized the fearful white males, and the wives that vote with them, that fear the days of white supremacy are comLuke Mehall, contemplating ing to an end. how things are looking up./ I guess we’ll never know exactly what won Photo by Jake Burchmore him the presidency. And I think it is important to note that Hilary Clinton still got more votes in the Electoral College, a system that seems to favor Republicans, as both Trump and George W. won the presidency without winning the popular vote.

(Side note: perhaps the only good that will come out of Trump’s presidency is that he made the Clintons go away politically! Could you imagine the political problems that the first, first man Bill Clinton would have caused for Hillary? If you need a refresher on the Clinton era, I highly recommend the “Slow Burn” podcast.)

Alas, all of this is so macro when most of our lives and our potential for impact is micro. My writing will not change anyone’s opinion on politics. For the record, even though I’m a progressive, I am an equal opportunity hater when it comes to politicians. See my previous Hickenlooper pieces on my website. That’s another frustrating thing. We have freedom of speech – shout out to the First Amendment – but I can write, post and share all I want and I’m not going to change one damn opinion.

Let’s think for a minute, though, on the educational process we are all getting on our political system. I mean I think I could name more people from Trump’s original cabinet than I could from Obama’s. (Obama is the only president in my lifetime I ever liked.) Subpoenas, quid pro quo, congressional hearings, executive power, covfefe, etc. I mean we are learning so much.

I also feel like there’s something I’ve learned about the role anger plays in our politics. My anger was at an all-time high when Trump got elected, and it’s been bubbling ever since. And that bubbling pot of anger was an ingredient in my book.

Before Obama left the White House, he created Bears Ears National Monument, which includes my favorite place in the world, the Indian Creek corridor. Obama’s team worked with the Bears Ears Inter-Tribal Council and other recreation groups like the Access Fund and created something remarkable. Then, of course, the Trump administration rescinded the designation, lawsuits were filed, and the issue is being settled in the courts.

During these last three years, this land that was to be proclaimed the Bears Ears National Monument has soothed my soul and brightened my spirits. It’s not just the politics right now, our hyper connected electronic world has made me crave Mother Nature more than ever. My happiest moments these days come when my cell phone stops working, my truck hits a dirt road, and I can focus on my latest climbing project. Sometimes, when my compulsive need to climb is satisfied, simply walking into some canyon and finding evidence of the Ancestral Puebloans is as exciting as climbing. When I find and hear evidence of their own climbing that is absolutely mind blowing.

I think that one of the biggest problems we have in society is getting so overwhelmed by the bad that we forget to do something good. I haven’t even begun to detail all the problems that our country has, some that Trump created, and many that existed before him and will exist after.

It’s the middle of the week now, but my mind is already drifting to the weekend in the desert with my love. I’m excited to check out the Bears Ears Education Center, run by the Friends of Cedar Mesa, and I’m excited to learn more about the landscape that I love that has been cared for by indigenous people for thousands of years. I hope that my own writing can inspire others to care for it, fight for it and protect it. Our souls depend on it, and the soul of America depends on it.

– Luke Mehall Luke Mehall is the author of five books including, The Desert, which is available at local bookstores. You can read more of his work at climbingzine.com and lukemehall.com. He can be contacted at luke@climbingzine.com.

This Week’s Sign of the Downfall:

Thumbin’It A creative solution to Main Avenue’s empty storefronts, with plans to fill empty store windows with local artists’ work through a collaboration between the Business Improvement District and the Durango Creative District Happy news for the world’s endangered species, with baby tortoises being born on the Galapagos Islands for the first time in 100 years Gov. Polis rolling out a plan to combat the high cost of college while highlighting Fort Lewis College’s work in making itself the most affordable college in Colorado

4 n Nov. 14, 2019

Word that the disabled Main and 8th Street intersection will remain a sketchy two-way stop for at least several more months An Associated Press report that found dozens of Colorado’s aging dams are in unsatisfactory condition, including several which were listed as “high hazard” Investigative reporting that found gun stores in Colorado are still selling high-capacity magazines despite a 2013 law that banned the sale

telegraph

Kanye Jest Kanye West, who became famous for making really good life decisions (e.g. saying “slavery was a choice” and then endorsing for president the only person in this country more ridiculous than himself and then starting his own church after marrying a porn star), announced that he might change his name to “Christian Genius Billionaire Kanye West.” The choice is a bit odd given that West is neither a genius nor a billionaire, but it’s better than what he did to his kids, who are named Chicago, Psalm, Saint and North.

WordontheStreet

Q

With the dark nights making for prime binge watching, the Telegraph asked: “What else are you bingeing on?”

Brandon Halley

“Introspection.”

Bret Kindvsatter

“‘Chef’s Table’ and ‘Stranger Things.’”

John Steck

“Beer.”

Spencer Zogg

“Whatever my wife tells me is OK to binge on.”

Ross Bryan

“Alcohol.”

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Nov. 14, 2019 n 5

SoapBox

ReTooned/by Shan Wells

Reverse the divisiveness To the editor, A recent solicitation letter from Sen. Cory Gardner closed with these words: “Help me fight back against the radical liberal hoards (sic) that is descending on Colorado … to defend the radical liberal policies, socialist programs and restrictions to our constitutional rights … .”

Does he truly believe that Coloradans are under attack? Probably not. More likely he believes what his campaign and party leaders are advising based on research of what fires up potential Republican voters. Just like the Democrat candidates who rely on polls, surveys and focus groups to craft messaging that pushes the buttons of potential “blue” voters.

Campaign marketing is all about eliciting emotional responses – the stronger the response, the greater the impact on our decision-making. Fear, blame, resentment, anger and even hope are the most potent triggers.

We’re being played. And the sad result is that we’re getting pulled further and further apart, divided into partisan tribes ruled by emotions over reason. We’ve evolved into a society that has normalized lying, shaming, bullying, yelling, humiliating and attacking others.

I wonder how, as a society, we reverse the divisiveness. Is it possible to get back to treating others like we want to be treated, recognizing and respecting differences, striving to find common ground, and agreeing to disagree respectfully when we don’t? Can we influence elected officials, the media, celebrities, athletes and other public figures to be positive role models for our children?

How do we encourage and reward acceptance, tolerance, kindness and respect?

Do you think it’s doable?

– Greg Phillips, Durango4

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6 n Nov. 14, 2019

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The plastics ‘bucket list’ To the editor, Although I have not personally seen it, there’s an art installation that recently opened, called “Arcadia,” which is said to evoke our love of our natural environment while simultaneously educating the public about humans’ impact on the planet.

In the end it asks participants, “What is your vow?”

It made me think of my “vow,” so that I will increase the chances of leaving this Earth habitable for the next generation and the other living things we share it with. I know I am only a small drop in the bucket, but it’s many drops that make one bucket, including my own.

My vow is to decrease my wastefulness – especially my single use trash – which is not an easy task as you may know. Plastic, for example, is everywhere. Avoiding it completely is virtually impossible, so just decreasing it has become a big part of my monthly challenge.

Here are the things I have been chipping away at, as I progressively work to reduce my waste: 1. Plastic bags – bringing my own reusable grocery and produce bags when I shop; 2. Take out waste – bringing my own supplies for “to go” food when I am on the run, such as a travel mug, utensils and take-away containers.

3. Bringing my own reusable jugs and jars to local stores where I can make bulk purchases.

I know there are many readers who have similar “vows.” Thanks to our community efforts, we can see the way to a bucket of solutions for future generations.

– Michelle Herringer, Durango

Time for Trump to pay the piper To the editor, Had enough yet? The stench surrounding us is emanating from the rotten remains of what once was the Re-

publican Party. While Republican congressional members have picked our pockets to the tune of $250,000 annual salary, plus all the well-funded benes of office, they have done little to repay working taxpayers. Instead of being responsible representatives of the people, they have enabled the criminal in our “dump” (his words) of the White House. Every outrageous, disgusting, law-breaking act by Trump has been ignored by these cowards in office!

They have done nothing to stop his lawlessness and next to nothing to earn their pay.

Over 100 bills have been passed in the last eight months by the Democratic House of Representatives – all of them stopped from a vote in the Republican Senate by “Moscow” Mitch!

Our democracy is being corrupted from within – all for money and power for a handful of morally bankrupt people. To stop what is happening will not come from those elected with a (R) after their names. It must come from us – the people – the majority of us who care about America.

Someone famous once said, “A man’s character will be his fate.” It is time for Trump to meet his fate. The Republicans running for re-election in Washington will meet their fates in the next election.

– Susan Troen, Durango

Three cheers for library support To the editor, We would like to sincerely thank the communities of Southwest La Plata County for passing Ballot Issue 6D, to form and fund the Southwest La Plata Library District. This has been a great example of civic involvement. The campaign to pass this Library District was driven by a group of citizens with widespread support from the families living in the District.

When people agree that a service benefits the whole community, we can unite to shape our world to make it

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better for everyone. The overwhelming feedback we have had from the community is that libraries are an invaluable asset that raise us up in a positive way. Three cheers for the Sunnyside and Fort Lewis Mesa communities for showing up to the polls and actively participating in this important expression of citizenship!

–Southwest La Plata Library District Issue Committee: Rebecca Benally, Nona Dale, Barbara Harris, Roy Horvath, Janet Kuss, Cynthia Loebig, Peter Miesler, Nycole Eoff, Alana Ostrander and Marilyn Zion

Truth Truth has always elevated humanity.

Truth gave Christ the strength to carry his suffering burden.

It strengthened the moral compass and allowed compassion, fairness and kindness to prevail.

Truth was the beacon that guided ships of state through the gales of abusive power.

It was the banner that men carried through the terrors of combat.

It is, and will always be, the foundation of civility.

Truth can never be compromised, deflected, ignored or buried.

Truth can only strengthen one’s faith and codify what one values.

It is the ceaseless engine of hope and change.

Without truth, darkness prevails!

– Burt Baldwin, Ignacio

Nov. 14, 2019 n 7

TopStory

Rob Powell, Operations Section Chief for the Type 1 Incident Team who worked on the 416 Fire, said using his infamous “switchblade” pointer during Facebook videos happened by accident. But, he admits, it’s now part of his brand. He used it making videos for the Decker Fire, which burned near Salida in October./Courtesy photo

The face of the 416 Get out the autograph books – Rob is back in town

by Tracy Chamberlin

that had ignited at the southern end of the burn area. He reached into his top pocket, whipped out a small switchblade and the rest is history.

S

ome admired his down-to-earth demeanor. Others appreciated the conversational style and respected his wealth of Smoke and fire knowledge. But, what really turned him into a local legend Not long after the 416 Fire started June 1, 2018, the Rocky was the pointer.

Mountain Type 2 Incident Management Team took over operaRob Powell, who served as the Operations Section Chief for the tions. Powell said that team – which he worked on in the past – team working on the 416 Fire, started had put a good plan in place, and the posting video updates for residents on Type 1 Team just followed it through JusttheFacts Facebook less than a week after the blaze when they took over June 9. ignited. Every morning locals could get What: “The 416 Recovery Celebration,” fundraiser The team’s overall strategy, he exinformation on exactly where the fire for the Mountain Studies Institute plained, was to protect private property. was, how it was behaving, and what the When: Wed., Nov. 20, 5:30-7 p.m.

The team saw no need to send crews into team’s plan was for the day – directly Where: Henry Strater Theatre, 699 Main Ave. some of the steep forest terrain around More info.: www.mountainstudies.org; tickets $50 Hermosa Creek. from the people who were fighting it.

“It gets popular right away because it’s “There was no reason to go in there a tool,” Powell said. “If you’re getting it What: Public Forum, featuring information on 416 and put people at risk,” he added. first hand, they appreciate that.”

It’s something Powell said has changed Fire restoration efforts from Mountain Studies InstiThe information was invaluable to res- tute and a Q&A with Rob Powell since he first started battling wildland idents who were evacuated, preparing to When: Thurs., Nov. 21, 6 p.m. fires more than three decades ago – idenbe evacuated or unsure of what was hap- Where: Durango Rec Center tifying what the risks are and the benefits pening north of town. of taking those risks.

More info.: www.mountainstudies.org; this event As serious as it was, Powell’s presenta- is free and open to the public.

“We can put people in there,” he extion made a lot of people smile. plained. “But how are we going to get His commentary about going “around them out?” the horn,” as he described how the fire was spreading, the “catcher’s Powell said a lot of things have changed over the years – adding mitt” analogy to explain what his team was doing to contain it and how the management of large fires has truly become an interathe hellos to his granddaughters back home gained him many fans. gency machine, instead of just something the U.S. Forest Service When discussing operations to the north, he always talked tackled alone. But the biggest difference is how everyone looks at about how he couldn’t mention Graysill Mountain, north of Pur- the big picture. gatory, without wanting to call it Grayskull, the castle and refuge “There’s a lot more ‘Why’ questions in the decision-making for He-Man in the ’80s cartoon – something that inspired viewers process,” he added. to suggest it should be renamed in his honor.

Powell plans to detail some of the decisions made by the team on But, perhaps the key moment for Powell was when he needed the 416 Fire, and why those decisions were made, during two events a pointer. next week hosted by Mountain Studies Institute, a nonprofit research In one of his early updates, he was reporting on some spot fires and education center based in Silverton. 4

8 n Nov. 14, 2019

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The first is “The 416 Recovery Celebration” from 5:30-7 p.m. Wed., Nov. 20, at the Henry Strater Theatre.

It’s a fundraiser for the institute as well as an awards ceremony, featuring Powell as the guest speaker, a silent auction, champagne toast and more. Organizers plan to recognize several area residents who played key roles during the 416 Fire with a special “Mountain Visionary” award honoring Ed Zink, who passed away Oct. 11.

The second event is a public forum on the 416 Fire and Mountain Studies Institute’s recovery efforts, happening the following day at 6 p.m. Thurs., Nov. 21, at the Durango Rec Center. It’s free, open to the public and features a Q&A session with Powell – and his pointer.

Homecoming It actually wasn’t in Powell’s original plan to battle wildland fires for a living. He worked for the local fire department in his hometown of Rapid City, S.D., for about 30 years before retiring.

To the Durango community’s benefit, though, his idea of retirement is working for the Rocky Mountain Type 1 Incident Management Team, which he’s been doing for the past three years.

Much like Durango, Rapid City has many areas where the city meets the forest – and human development seeps out into the wilderness, aka the wildland urban interface. Those areas often become the frontlines when wildfires ignite.

In the late 1980s and early ’90s, the West experienced what Powell called some “big fire years.” He and other firefighters in his community were called upon to help tackle wildland fires in the area around Rapid City. Over the years, as his experience grew, those leading the charge in the fight against wildland fires knew they could count on Powell.

In fact, he first came to Durango in 2002 as part of an incident management team fighting the Missionary Ridge Fire.

“I was actually the guy on the fire line,” he recalled.

He talked about how grateful and helpful the community was back then, and still is today.

When he worked on the Missionary Ridge Fire, Powell re-

After the fire’s out The real work for researchers at Mountain Studies Institute, a nonprofit based in Silverton, began when the smoke cleared.

Along with collaborative partners – like Durango Nature Studies, the Animas River Community Forum and others – MSI began to address the scores of monitoring and recovery projects needed in the wake of the 416 Fire.

Whether it was planting new seeds with residents of Falls Creek Ranch, repairing trail systems around the burn area with Trails 2000 or installing rain gauges in the Hermosa Creek watershed with La Plata County officials, Mountain Studies Institute has hosted more than 40 events and talks.

One of the goals is to understand how the community and surrounding forests are vulnerable to wildland fire, and how to recover from those fires.

“We all know that we can anticipate seeing more fires on the landscape in the future,” MarMountain Studies Institute partnered with students in Silverton, cie Bidwell, executive director for Mountain pictured above, to make seed balls to be used for replanting in the Studies Institute, said. “Taking these major Hermosa area. The students learned about fire ecology and the im- events in stride is an important part of being portance of pollinators./Photo by Amanda Kuenzi resilient.” membered the community had set up a support camp with everything from snacks to haircuts.

“It was just an amazing experience,” he added. “I’ve measured all fires to that ever since.”

The experience was similar during the 416 Fire when residents came out of the woodwork to offer whatever they could to help – coffee, meals, massages and more. This time, Powell even got his back adjusted by a local chiropractor.

It’s not that other communities aren’t just as supportive,

he explained. But, there’s something special about Durango and La Plata County.

In addition to the outpouring of support from residents, working with local leaders – including the Durango Fire Department, County Sheriff’s Office, San Juan National Forest officials, La Plata Emergency Management Team and more – was not like other places Powell had been either.

“The overall cooperation was amazing,” he said. “If I could live in Colorado, I think that’s where I would want to be.”n

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telegraph

Nov. 14, 2019 n

9

LocalNews

City rolls out e-mtb discussion Meeting to examine, hear residents’ thoughts on allowing e-bikes on local trails

by Missy Votel

I

t’s time for Durango to have the talk. After years of watching, waiting and wondering, the topic of electric mountain bikes can no longer be avoided. The City of Durango will tackle the issue head on Wed., Nov. 20, at the Durango Rec Center when it hosts a meeting and public comment session on whether to allow e-bikes on natural-surface trails. The joint study session among the City’s Natural Lands Preservation, Parks and Rec, and Multimodal advisory board, starts at 5 p.m., followed by public comment at 6.

The event is merely for information gathering, Durango Parks and Rec Director Cathy Metz said. It may or may not result in a recommendation to City Council, which may or may not want to hold hearings of its own on the subject.

“The point is to bring everyone up to speed,” she said.

“We really want to hear people’s thoughts.”

E-bikes are currently banned on city natural-surface trails although they have been allowed on hard-surface trails since 2018 after a yearlong trial run. Since then, the city has been watching to see how other places are dealing with e-bikes on trails. The first municipality in Colorado to take the plunge into e-bikedom was Jefferson County, west of Denver, which started allowing Class I (pedal-assist) e-bikes on its 244 miles of trails in 2019 after a year-long pilot study.

Following suit was Colorado’s state parks system, which also began allowing Class 1 and 2 (throttle-controlled) ebikes on trails open to mountain bikes this year. Both ebikes have top speeds of 20 mph, as compared to Class 3, which is governed at 28 mph.

However, the City of Durango’s hand has mostly been forced by the Department of Interior decree in August that ebikes be treated the same as bicycles on BLM and national park lands. (The Forest Service falls under the jurisdiction of the USDA and as of now, still manages e-bikes as motorized vehicles.) Several trails in Durango are on BLM land, including Sale Barn, Grandview Ridge, Animas City Mountain, Smokejumper and Skyline. However, accessing these trails often entails crossing city land, where e-bikes are banned.

“Should that change?” Metz asked.

Of course, given how sacred mountain biking is in Durango, there are strong opinions on that question.

“People are polarized,” local mountain bike champ Travis Brown (who in full disclosure works for Trek bicycle company) noted. On one hand, you have the mountain bike purists and lovers of peaceful recreation who think ebikes will bring more disturbance and want to see them governed as motorized vehicles. On the other side, you have the all-access crowd, who thinks all trails open to regular bikes should be open to e-bikes as well.

Brown, who has a vested interest from a personal and professional standpoint, has attended many of the city’s meetings on the topic, to hear arguments and share what he knows from working in the industry.

“I want to keep people accountable on both ends,” he said. While he admits the DOI edict was not responsible, he would like to see the conversation based on science, technology and case studies rather than unfounded fears and beliefs. For example, despite popular opinion, e-bikes do not make noise, are not capable of speeds over 28 mph and studies show most e-bike owners are people who already have active lifestyles.

One concern raised by environmentalists is that e-bikes are a slippery slope. With the DOI decision being made with no public input, who’s to say dirt bikes and other motorized vehicles won’t soon follow suit, they argue.

“No one in the conservation community has anything against e-bikes,” Michael Carroll, director of the Durangobased wilderness Society told the Telegraph in September.

10 n Nov. 14, 2019

Will e-bikes be coming to a singletrack near you soon? Local residents looking to learn more about this possibility or to weigh in, are invited to a public meeting next Wed., Nov. 20, at the Rec Center./ File photo “We just want an open process, and we want e-bikes in the right places.”

To that end, local trails advocacy group Trails 2000 is proposing a year-long e-bike trial in the Twin Buttes trail system. Trails 2000 Executive Director Mary Monroe-Brown (in full disclosure wife of Travis – it’s a small town) thinks Twin Buttes is a reasonable choice because it is self-contained, making for easier analysis and, for the most part, trails are ridden in the same direction, reducing the chance for conflicts.

Although Trails 2000 does not have an official stance on e-mtbs, Monroe-Brown said studies show they don’t lead to more wear and tear on trails. “It is our point of view that e-bikes don’t create more work as far as maintenance, erosion, etc.,” she said.

One mountain bike advocacy group that has weighed in is the Boulder-based International Mountain Bicycling Association, which supports Class 1 e-mtbs – with a caveat.

“We’ve been supportive of Class 1 e-mountain bikes on mountain bike trails as long as our access isn’t impeded or threatened,” IMBA’s executive director David Wiens told Outside Online in September. “It’s very important that traditional mountain bikes remain independent, that they don’t become one and the same.”

However, as e-bikes grow in popularity, that may be inevitable. According to the NPG Group, a New York-based marketing research firm, e-bikes comprise a small (6 percent) but rapidly growing share of overall bike sales in the United States. In 2017, e-bike sales totaled $77.1 million, a 91 percent increase over the previous year and an eightfold uptick since 2014. According to Brown, e-bike sales make up 30 percent of bike sales in Germny and other parts of Europe and 50 percent in Japan.

Combine that with a Trails 2000 study that found there are five times more people hitting local trails in the summer (11 times more in the winter) than 10 years ago, and it may seem we are on a collision course unless we get proactive.

telegraph

Metz said with the introduction of e-bikes on hard-surface trails, the City undertook an awareness campaign, painting stripes down the center line of the Animas River Trail, increasing signage, placing trail etiquette brochures at the Visitor’s Center and posting a video on the City’s website. However, she notes, educating people and enforcing rules in the far corners of, say, Horse Gulch, could prove a bit more challenging. Currently, the City has two rangers who regularly patrol open space, although much of their time is spent tending to social trails and illegal camp sites.

In addition, Metz points out that trail etiquette is just that – a set of guidelines with no real teeth. Rangers can merely “educate” folks when they see them doing something wrong but can’t issue citations.

“Right now, there are no rules in ordinance around who yields to who,” she said. But this could change. “What we may hear from folks is, it’s a great start, but it’s not enough.

We need more enforcement,” she said.

If Jeffco is a bellwether, enforcement may be a non-issue.

Mary Ann Bonnell, a ranger for Jefferson County Open Space, told Outside that today, the county fields far more complaints about dogs off leash than e-bikes. “The idea that they cause more accidents – we are not seeing that with e-bikes in our medical response calls,” Bonnell said.

Problems, when they do occur, are about failure to observe trail etiquette, she said.

And unfortunately, rude behavior travels in many forms, as one Jeffco survey respondent so succinctly pointed out: “If you’re an (expletive) on a regular bike, you’re gonna be an (expletive) on an e-bike.”

In other words, maybe all trails lead to common courtesy. Perhaps the best approach is to take a deep breath, smile and not be an (expletive) – because we’re all out there for the same reason.

“We all want to get outside and get our workout in,” Monroe-Brown said. “And trails are the gateway, no matter what you’re doing.” n

dayinthelife

Sedimental journey

by Stephen Eginoire

B

ehold one of the world’s most common minerals: gypsum! Most of us would recognize this pearly and fibrous crystal in a powdered state after being crushed and used as the main component in plaster, chalk, drywall and even fertilizer. In the wild, intact gypsum

telegraph

crystals can form in ways that are anything but common. Many limestone caves found throughout the Southwest are home to some of the best examples of intact gypsum crystals known to exist in the world. Here’s a look at a few remarkable formations found lurking beneath our feet:

Nov. 14, 2019 n 15

FlashinthePan

Food oasis in the concrete desert

by Ari LeVaux

D

etroit was once a thriving city, swaying to a soulful Motown beat and full of economic horsepower from the auto plants. After decades of relentless decline, almost 20 percent of the population now qualifies as food-insecure, according to Feeding America research in 2017. More than a third of Detroit lives a mile or farther from a grocery store, earning those neighborhoods the inglorious distinction of being “food deserts,” usually devoid of fresh vegetables, and fed by convenience stores, gas stations and snacks from liquor stores.

Against this backdrop, Detroit’s D-Town Farm is a food oasis. Its 7 acres produce not only food but a pathway to make the surrounding desert bloom. The farm’s parent organization, the Detroit Black Community Food Security Network, has been making change happen at the ground level in Detroit since 2006, helping to put thousands of residents to work in their own neighborhoods, turning vacant lots into gardens while lobbying the city to allow, if not encourage, urban agriculture.

In September, D-Town Farm held its annual Harvest Celebration, a two-day event where the DBCFSN community gathers to celebrate urban agriculture, food security and the fertile green cracks in this over-paved city.

I showed up about an hour before the party. I could hear the bright beats of West African djembe and dundun drums drifting from the nearby stage, as volunteers hung signs, chopped wood for an earthen pizza oven and pushed produce carts toward a farm stand. I went to a reception table in the shade of a large oak tree, where I asked for – and was directed to – Malik Yakini, who was expecting me.

“Malik is an African brother with long locks. He has a

16 n Nov. 14, 2019

scholarly look,” replied the volunteer, pointing toward the drum beats. I walked past long rows of onions, squash, beans and kale, past a windmill and a small pond, and followed a path into a grove where I found Yakini. Grey-bearded and bespectacled, he was wearing a green shirt with a pattern that resembled dancing bike chain links. We ambled toward the drums.

In the 1970s, while at Eastern Michigan University, Yakini started a food-buying club. He didn’t consider himself a food activist but rather a black empowerment activist.

After a career as a teacher and school principal, Yakini started DBCFSN, which aims to keep the means of food production and distribution in the hands of the community.

“We grow about 36 different crops over the course of the year,” Yakini explained, in between hugs with a sister in a yellow shirt that said “Register to Vote With Me” and an academic Caucasian brother from out of town.

“Solar energy station.

Beekeeping. Composting. Rainwater collecting. Children’s area. This party is the culmination of our year. We are expecting 500 to 1,000 people to come celebrate and get exposed to urban agriculture and fresh food.”

At a brochure-laden table, Yakini introduced me to Peggy Harp. She told me about the planned building that will house a food co-op, community space and stainless steel kitchen space, where fledgling food start-ups can safely prepare food for legal sale.

“There are so many people making great food in Detroit.

But if you want to sell it, you can’t be cooking out of your kitchen,” Harp said. “We are at around 400 member owners and need to get to 1,000. That would show our investors and the community that there is support behind this project and that it will be a viable grocery store.”

telegraph

When complete, the 34,000-square-foot structure would represent the linchpin between food production and distribution, and the manifestation of the cooperative economic principles Yakini has been working toward for decades.

When I turned around, Yakini had settled into a folding chair in front of the stage, where the drums had switched from casual, lilting groove to a crisp barrage of djembe notes, a call to order. I had a plane to catch, so I said goodbye. As I left, a woman in a headscarf opened the festivities with prayers to far-flung ancestors. Each called-out line ended with the response of “ase” (“ahshay”) from the crowd, a West African word that translates loosely as “the power to make change happen.”

After I left, Yakini emailed me a recipe from the old days, when Detroit’s population was double what it is today; when Yakini was eating kale, long before it was cool.

The name, Kings’ and Queens’ Kale, is from “... a couple decades ago as part of the effort of ‘conscious’ black people to reframe how we see ourselves. I no longer use that terminology, but the recipe was already named.”

The dish contains tomatoes, onions and kale, a lovely combination. The tomatoes and onions simmer down into a tart sauce that flavors the kale. Any amount of kale added to this pan, it seems, will cook down into a manageable portion and quickly get eaten. I like to use a pile of this kale as a substrate beneath a big greasy breakfast of bacon, eggs and cheese, in place of toast.

The recipe calls for Spike, a seasoning powder. If Spike isn’t in your pantry, you can replace it with normal salt.

It calls for Bragg Liquid Aminos, another obscure grocery item, but you can use soy sauce.

Kings’ and Queens’ Kale Serves 4 2 lbs curly kale 1 large red onion 2 medium sized tomatoes Cooking oil Powdered cayenne pepper Spike Bragg Liquid Aminos or soy sauce Remove the kale leaves from the ribs and chop the leaves. Dice the onion and tomatoes. Add a small amount of oil to a skillet and turn heat to medium. Add onions and tomatoes; sauté for 5 minutes.

Add chopped kale and thoroughly mix with onions and tomatoes. Season to taste with cayenne, Spike and Bragg’s. Sauté for 5 - 7 minutes, until kale is tender but still light green. n

TopShelf

Sour Grapes, Venturing to Ska and Blue Notes

by Chris Aaland

spanning more than 40 years, Cockburn has written more than 300 songs for his 33 albums. Several have become iconic tunes alk about sour grapes. Don Cherry, the hockey personality representing certain eras – songs like “Lovers in a Dangerous known as “Grapes” for his lengthy rants on “Hockey Night Time,” “If I Had a Rocket Launcher,” “Wondering Where the in Canada,” was fired Monday by Sportsnet, the network Lions Are,” “Pacing the Cage” and “Last Night of the World.” that airs the NHL in Canada and produces his “Coach’s Corner” Cockburn is a rare songwriter equally adept at tackling geopolitisegment. On Saturday night, in advance of Remembrance Day cal crises and the most intimate insecurities each of us has. He’s (Canada’s version of Vetan equally accomplished eran’s Day), Cherry went guitarist, often performing off on recent immigrants on either a vintage, metalto the Northland. body National Steel or “You people that come custom-made Canadian here … you love our way acoustic guitars by Linda of life, you love our milk Manzer, the latter with and honey, at least you greater access to the can pay a couple bucks for higher frets. Many of his a poppy or something like finest instrumentals are that,” he said of the captured on his 2005 colBritish Commonwealth lection, “Speechless.” I’ve tradition of wearing popseen Cockburn live several pies in honor of those times, including a couple who served and paid the in-studio performances at ultimate sacrifice. The traKSUT. It’s worth the effort dition dates back to 1915, to track down a ticket to when Lieutenant-Colonel this one.

John McCrae lost his Three contemporary From left: James Francies, Kandace Springs and James Carter perform concomrade, Lieutenant temporary jazz at the Farmington Civic Center at 7:30 p.m. Friday as part jazz artists on the legAlexis Helmer, at the Bat- of the Blue Note 80th Anniversary Tour. endary Blue Note label tle of Ypres during the will perform at the Farmfirst World War. McCrae noticed a great number of poppies growington Civic Center at 7:30 p.m. Friday – Kandace Springs, James ing in the battlefield. He later wrote “In Flanders Fields,” one of Francies and the James Carter Organ Trio. The stop is part of the the most famous war poems of all time.

Blue Note 80th Anniversary Tour. Springs is a NashvilleCherry’s wishes to honor the fallen wasn’t the problem. It was based singer and pianist who will release her third Blue Note the perennial dog whistle favorite, “you people,” that sealed his album, “The Women Who Raised Me,” in early 2020. Rolling Stone fate. The two-word hot button is disparagingly used by xenonoted that Springs “recalls an era when the boundaries between phobes the world over. And xenophobic behavior isn’t new to jazz, soul and pop were more fluid.” Francies is a Houston-born the loudly dressed and louder-mouthed ex-coach and longtime pianist and composer who has played with a who’s who of jazz, broadcaster. He was notoriously opposed to the NHL’s influx of R&B and hip-hop Pat Metheny, Lauryn Hill, the Roots, Common European-born players in the 1970s and ’80s, railing against their and Nas. Carter is a Detroit saxophonist who has reinvented lack of physical play. Cherry, who in his five years as head coach Django Reinhardt. The New York Times calls him “one of the most of the Boston Bruins and single year at the helm of the foundercharismatic and powerful soloists in jazz.” ing Colorado Rockies in 1979-80, preferred goons and grinders.

Ska Brewing celebrates the upcoming snow season with its During his lone season as head coach of the Rockies, billboards 15th annual Ska/Venture Season Kickoff Party from 6-8 arose around Denver telling fans to “Come for the fights and p.m. Friday at the World Headquarters. The event serves as the watch a Rockies game break out!” official release of Ska Face, a barrel-aged barleywine (pair it with Today, European-born players represent nearly a quarter of NHL candied nuts and Stilton cheese – a tip from Ska founder Dave players. Many of the Canadian-born players are sons of recent imThibodeau). It also includes a giveaway of a limited-edition migrants. Take the Colorado Avalanche, for example. The current Ska/Venture snowboard, a trip with Silverton Powdercats, Purgaroster features a black French national, Pierre-Edouard Bellemare; a tory and Wolf Creek passes, silent auction and the final 2019 apCanadian son of Lebanese immigrants, Nazem Kadri; and an unpearance of Farmington Hill. likely goaltending tandem of a German (Philipp Grubauer) and a The Durango Youth Symphony holds its fall concert at 7 Czech (Pavel Francouz). Of the 27 players on the active roster or inp.m. Tuesday at the Community Concert Hall. They’ll perform jured list, 17 are North Americans (nine Canadians and eight Amer- selections by Grieg, Bach and Verdi under the direction of music icans). The other 10 hail from Russia (three), Finland (two), Sweden director Savra Siverson, who is a nationally known conductor (two), Austria, the Czech Republic and Germany. and music educator with more than 26 years of experience with Nearly all NHL players are immigrants in one way or another. A young musicians. Molly Jensen directs the Junior Strings ensemlook at recent NHL rosters only shows eight players with Native ble, which will tackle Handel’s “Menuet,” Faure’s “Pie Jesu from American or First Nations ancestry – including stars like WashingRequiem” and “Trepack” from Tchaikovsky’s holiday classic, ton’s T.J. Oshie (Ojibwa), Jordin Tootoo (Inuk) and Carey Price (Ul“Nutcracker.” tatcho). Longtime Colorado Avalanche fans remember Rene Borque More good stuff: Brennan Mackey, best known as a member (Metis) and Chris Simon and Cody McCormick (both Ojibwa). of Denver Americana band King Cardinal, plays Ska at 5 tonight It’s a brave new world out there, Grapes. The game has (Thurs., Nov. 14); Tim Sullivan returns to The Office Spiritochanged since you skated in your one NHL game back in 1955. rium at 5:30 tonight; the Black Velvet trio goes Down the RabLegendary Canadian folk-rocker Bruce Cockburn returns to bit Hole at 6 p.m. Saturday; the Garrett Young Collective gets Durango at 7:30 p.m. Saturday at the intimate Henry Strater Therowdy at The Garage at 7 p.m. Saturday; and Joel Racheff is atre. Tickets to this sold out a while ago, but I’ve noticed a few back at The Office at 7 p.m. Sunday. being offered up on Facebook. Assuming these go unclaimed, a Your old road is rapidly aging? Email me at chrisa@go lucky person might be able to grab them at the door. In a career brainstorm.net. n

T

telegraph

... at Durango Dance!

3416 N. Main Ave. Monday: 8:45AM Tuesday: 10:30AM Wednesday: 4:30PM Thursday: 10:30AM Friday: 8:45AM You don’t have to be a dancer! Nia is a blend of dance, martial arts and healing arts that will open and free your body.

970-946-2591 evonnenia@gmail.com

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Nov. 14, 2019 n 17

onthetown

Thursday14 Baby Meetup with Durango Café au Play, 9:30-11:30 a.m., 2307 Columbine. 749-9607.

Business Improvement District meets, noon-2 p.m., 850½ Main Ave., Suite 2.

“Linda Ronstadt: The Sound of My Voice” screening, 3 and 5:30 p.m. Animas City Theatre, 128 E. College Drive. www.animascitytheatre.com.

Drop-in Tennis, 4 p.m., Durango High School, 2390 Main Ave. Thursday Afternoon Social Club for veterans, their spouses and supporters, 4-6 p.m., VFW, 1550 Main Ave. Brennan Mackey of King Cardinal performs, 5-8 p.m., Ska Brewing, 225 Girard St. Tim Sullivan performs, 5:30 p.m., Diamond Belle Saloon, 699 Main Ave.

Submit “On the Town” items by Monday at noon to: calendar@durangotelegraph.com

Sitting Meditation, 5:30-6:15 p.m., Durango Dharma Center, 1800 E. 3rd Ave. An Evening in the Himalayans, benefit for the Bhotia Foundation featuring food, stories, entertainment and more, 5:30-8 p.m., Durango Arts Center, 802 E. 2nd Ave. www.bhotiafoundation.org.

Rob Webster performs, 6 p.m., The Office, 699 Main Ave. Winter Volunteer Orientation for Adaptive Sports Association, returning volunteers 6-7 p.m.; new volunteers, 7-8 p.m., Durango Rec Center. 259-0374 or asadurango.com.

Open Mic Night, 6-8 p.m., Eno Wine Bar, 723 E. 2nd Ave. What is it like to have Dyslexia? a dyslexia simulation, 6-8 p.m., The Liberty School, 3107 Western Ave. support@thelibertyschool.org.

“Every Brilliant Thing,” presented by Merely Players, 7 p.m., show also runs Nov. 15-16, and 2 p.m., Nov. 17, Hesperus Baptist Camp on Highway 140. www.mere lyplayers.us.

Disney’s “The Little Mermaid,” presented by DHS Troupe 1096, 7:30 p.m., show also runs Nov. 15-16, 2122, and 2 p.m., Nov. 16, Durango High School Auditorium. troupe1096.weebly.com.

“Gypsy,” presented by FLC Theatre Department, 7:30

p.m., show also runs Nov. 15-16, Theatre Main Stage at Fort Lewis College. www.durangoconcerts.com.

Live music, 6-9 p.m., DJ Hakan 9 p.m.-close, Starlight Lounge, 937 Main Ave.

Open Mic & Stand-Up, 8 p.m., El Rancho Tavern, 975 Main Ave.

Bike-Packing presentation and Q&A, 7 p.m., Velorution Cycles, 377 E. 3rd St., #2. www.velorutioncy cles.com.

Karaoke, 8 p.m., Wild Horse Saloon, 601 E. 2nd Ave. Plursday featuring DJ Highgrade, 9 p.m., Starlight Lounge, 937 Main Ave.

Karaoke, 7 p.m.-close, VFW, 1550 Main Ave.

Friday15 The Blue Note’s 80th Anniversary Tour, featuring Kandace Springs, James Francies and James Carter, Nov. 15, Farmington Civic Center. www.fmtn.org The Polar Express, Nov. 15-Jan. 2, Durango & Silverton Narrow Gauge Railroad. www.durangotrain.com.

Durango Early Bird Toastmasters, 7-8:30 a.m., LPEA, 45 Stewart St. 769-7615.

Saturday16 Drop-in Tennis, 9 a.m., Durango High School, 2390 Main Ave. VFW Indoor Flea Market, 10 a.m.-4 p.m., 1550 Main Ave.

Free yoga, 8:30-9:30 a.m., Lively Boutique, 809 Main Ave.

Sundance Indigenous Shorts and celebration of Native American Heritage Month, reception 5 p.m., Sorrel Sky Gallery, 828 Main Ave.; film 7 p.m., Animas City Theatre, 128 E. College Drive. 375-7779.

Zumba Gold, 9:30-10:15 a.m., La Plata Senior Center, 2424 Main Ave.

Robby Overfield performs, 5:30 p.m., Diamond Belle Saloon, 699 Main Ave.

Friends of the Library Fall Book Sale, 9:30 a.m.-5 p.m., Nov. 15-16, Durango Public Library.

Andrew Schuhmann performs, 6 p.m., The Office, 699 Main Ave.

STEAM Lab: Dinosaur Skeletons, 3:30-4:30 p.m., Durango Public Library.

Black Velvet Trio performs, 6 p.m., Down the Rabbit Hole, 640 Main Ave.

Spanish Speaking Parents & Littles Fridays, 4-6 p.m., Durango Café au Play, 1309 E. 3rd Ave., Room 201. durangocafeauplay.org.

Ben Gibson Duo performs, 6-10 p.m., Seven Rivers Restaurant at Sky Ute Casino Resort in Ignacio.

Live music, 6:30-8:30 p.m., Hermosa Coffee Shop.

Adam Swanson performs, 5:30 p.m., Diamond Belle Saloon, 699 Main Ave. A Celebration of Winter: Durango’s Premier Ski Party, presented by Durango Winter Sports Foundation and featuring 2019 Hall of Fame Inductee Joe Holgate, silent auction, kid-friendly venue, live music, drinks and more, 5:30 p.m., Powerhouse Science Center, 1333 Camino del Rio. purgatoryskiteam.org.

Terry Rickard performs, 6 p.m., The Office, 699 Main Ave. Ska/Venture 15th annual Season Kickoff, featuring music from Farmington Hill, silent auction, raffle and more, 6 p.m., Ska Brewing, 225 Girard St.

Garrett Young Collective performs, 7 p.m., The Garage, 121 W. 8th St. “About Love, Life and Death” featuring live music from Sara Illsley and Friends, 7-9 p.m., Sunflower Theater in Cortez. www.sunflowertheatre.org.

An Evening with Bruce Cockburn, (sold out) 7:30 p.m., Henry Strater Theatre, 699 Main Ave. DJ Side Affex, 9 p.m.-close, Starlight Lounge, 937 Main Ave.

Sunday17 Flea Market, 8:30 a.m., La Plata County Fairgrounds.

Tequila and Tamales, benefit for Compañeros, 6-9 p.m., Unitarian Universalist Fellowship of Durango, 419 San Juan Dr. www.companeros.org.

Veterans Breakfast, 9-11 a.m., La Plata County Fairgrounds. 946-4831.4

Join us Sat, Nov. 23, 11- 4 for our Women’s Holiday Marketplace!

Free Tenants Rights Clinic Presented by Colorado Legal Services

Tues., Nov. 19, 5:15 - 7 p.m. • Durango Public Library Topics include best rental practices, evictions, security deposits, etc.

For more info, call (970) 247-0266.

18 n Nov. 14, 2019

Neil Pearlman & Colin Cotter perform, 7-11 p.m., Irish Embassy Pub, 900 Main Ave. www.durangocelticfes tival.com.

telegraph

Traditional Irish Music Jam, 12:30-4 p.m., Irish Embassy, 900 Main Ave. Blue Moon Ramblers, 5:30 p.m., Diamond Belle Saloon, 699 Main Ave. Joel Racheff performs, 6 p.m., The Office, 699 Main Ave. Open Mic Night, 6:30-8:30 p.m., Hermosa Coffee Roasters, 738 Main Ave.

Monday18 Yoga Storytime, 9:30-10:45 a.m., Smiley Building Studio 10, 1309 E. 3rd Ave. Watch Your Step class, 10:15 a.m., Durango Senior Center, 2424 Main Ave. Joel Racheff performs, 5:30 p.m., Diamond Belle Saloon, 699 Main Ave. Rob Webster performs, 6 p.m., The Office, 699 Main Ave. Classic Movie Mondays, featuring “The Jackpot,” 6 p.m., Pine River Library in Bayfield.

Mountainfilm on Tour rolls into Durango this Saturday What: Mountainfilm on Tour, a benefit for Durango Nature Studies When: 5 & 8:30 p.m., Sat., Nov. 16 Where: Durango Arts Center, 802 E. 2nd Ave. If – like most folks – you were unable to make it to this year’s Mountainfilm in Telluride, take heart. This Saturday, Mountainfilm on Tour is coming to you. This curated version of the original will bring a selection of culturally rich, adventurepacked and inspiring documentaries to the Durango Arts Center for three shows.

Expect films to run the gamut from paddling the outrageous whitewater of Yellowstone to flying over an active volcano in a wingsuit to exploring the Himalayas on two wheels – all in the name of Mountainfilm’s mission to help create a better world. A Mountainfilm presenter will guide the audience through the program providing insight on the films, filmmakers and subjects.

Mountainfilm on Tour in Durango is hosted by Durango Nature Studies and proceeds will benefit Durango Nature Studies’ nature-based science education programs.

In addition, there will be an auction with items to equip and enable attendees’ own outdoor adventures.

There will be three shows: a family-friendly matinee at 2 p.m.; and two evenings shows, at 5 and at 8:30 p.m.

Doors open 30 minutes before each show, and tickets are available in advance at Maria’s Bookshop, Backcountry Experience, online at durangonaturestudies.org or at the door (if available). The cost for the matinee is $8 in advance/$10 at the door, and tickets for the general shows are $15 in advance/$20 at the door.

Sponsors of Mountainfilm on Tour in Durango include: Alpine Bank, Backcountry Experience, the Durango Silverton Narrow Gauge Railroad, Maria’s Bookshop, the Rochester Hotel, and Zia Taqueria.

Trivia Night, 7 p.m., Blondies in Cortez.

Contiki Party with the Aussies, 9 p.m.-close, Starlight Lounge, 937 Main Ave.

Tuesday19

Desert, sponsored by South San Juan Great Old Broads, 6-7 p.m., The Underground at the Irish Embassy, 900 Main Ave. Trivia Factory, hosted by Ben Bernstein, 6:30-8:30 p.m., The Roost, 128 E. College Dr.

Zumba Gold, 9:30-10:15 a.m., La Plata Senior Center, 2424 Main Ave.

DJ Crazy Charlie, 6:30-10:30 p.m., Billy Goat Saloon, Gem Village.

Durango AARP Chapter #1243 meets, 10 a.m., Durango Senior Center, 2424 Main Ave. durangoaarp@yahoo.com.

San Juan Symphony Youth Orchestra’s Fall Concert, featuring selections by Grieg, Bach and Verdi directed

by Sayra Siverson, 7 p.m., Community Concert Hall at Fort Lewis College. www.sanjuansymphony.org.

Drop-in Tennis, 4 p.m., Durango High School, 2390 Main Ave. Terry Rickard performs, 5:30 p.m., Diamond Belle Saloon, 699 Main Ave. Leah Orlikowski performs, 6 p.m., The Office, 699 Main Ave. Rotary Club of Durango, presentation from Iraqi war veteran and mountain climber Chad Jukes, 6 p.m., Henry Strater Hotel, 699 Main Ave. 385-7899.

Lecture and Discussion with local author Vicky Ramakka, author of The Cactus Plot: Murder in the High

Latin Dance Night, 8 p.m., Wild Horse Saloon, 601 E. 2nd Ave. salsadancedurango@gmail.com.

Open Mic Night, 8 p.m.-close, Starlight Lounge, 937 Main Ave.

Wednesday20 Teen Time: Pizza Party, 4-5 p.m., Durango Library.

Be Local coupon book release party, 5 – 7 p.m., Animas Chocolate Co., 920 Main Ave.

loon, 699 Main Ave. Thank the Veterans potluck, 5:30 p.m., Peter Neds performs, 7-8:30 p.m., VFW, 1550 Main Ave. 828-7777.

Terry Rickard performs, 6 p.m., The Office, 699 Main Ave. Durango Diaries: Forever Young, stories shared by retirees who are still pursuing active lifestyles including National Senior Games swimmer Kathy Kronwall, Pilates teacher Diane Legner and skier Major Lefebvre, 6-7 p.m., Durango Public Library.

Avalanche Awareness Class, presented by Friends of the San Juans, 6-8 p.m., Powerhouse Science Center, 1333 Camino del Rio. www.thesanjuans.org Loki Moon – Raw Experiments, 6-8 p.m., Eno Wine Bar, 723 E. 2nd Ave. Pub Quiz, 6:30 p.m., Irish Embassy Pub, 900 Main Ave. 403-1200.

Open Mic Night, 7:30 p.m., The Roost, 128 E. College Dr.

More “On the Town” p. 204

Donny Johnson performs, 5:30 p.m., Diamond Belle Sa-

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Nov. 14, 2019 n 19

AskRachel Interesting fact: It’s garlic – not onions – that ward off vampires. This magical protection likely has its roots (get it?) in historical times, when you can’t prove to me that vampires didn’t exist.

Dear Rachel, As cold and flu season rolls in, I’m willing to do just about anything to prevent myself from catching the bugs. I can’t believe that things like crystals or sage-burning do a darn thing, but my friend swears by onions. Not eating them, just putting them around the house like she’s warding off vampires. I’d laugh it off, but I wonder if that mythological vampire bit has roots in reality. Should I give it a shot?

– Flu Bugger Dear Bad Breath, Sounds to me like propaganda from the onion union.

I mean, putting onions around your house can’t hurt, right? Unless you’re allergic to onions. Then it might hurt a lot. I must say, it’s possible the onions would make a difference. At least, I’ve never read a study that said they don’t work. Kind of like how you can’t prove to me that aliens don’t exist, or that Roseanne and Rosie O’Donnell aren’t the same person. That said, maybe you should just get a flu shot.

– Doctor recommended, Rachel Dear Rachel, Are you familiar with the graphic that depicts the right of way on trails? Bikes yield to both people and horses, and people yield to horses. Where do dogs fit on this graphic? And

OntheTown from p. 19

Karaoke, 8 p.m., Blondies in Cortez.

Karaoke with Crazy Charlie, 8 p.m.-close, Wild Horse Saloon, 601 E. 2nd Ave.

Ongoing

would dogs even be able to understand it? Seems like bikers should yield to dogs, because bikers not yielding to dogs means I now have a dog terrified of bikes. But maybe they ought to yield to people? Who outranks the other, dogs or horses?

I’m struggling to sort it out.

– Wrong of Way Dear Traffic Jam, Let’s disregard that dogs are supposed to be on leashes.

Because if we’re honest with ourselves, Durango dogs don’t even have leashes. I say dogs should yield to everyone. And not because they’re bottom beasts on the totem pole. But because every dog I’ve ever hiked with spends more time rummaging through underbrush and digging up ground squirrels and rolling in cow turds than actually, you know, walking on the trail. Bikers should still yield anyway, though, because scaring dogs is just wrong, man.

– Share the trail, Rachel Dear Rachel, I’m getting tired of feeling like I’m supposed to leave a review for every little thing. It was OK when my only reviews were on eBay. Now, you can review every restaurant, every Airbnb, every haircut. It’s ridiculous. I choose not to review, but honestly, I’m fascinated by all the people who do it. Who has that much time? Who feels the need to give a rating to every hamburger they ever eat? And most of all, why?

– Five Star Bewilderment Dear Reviewer, Sure, it’s ridiculous. But it’s also performance art. I have a relative, married into the family, who reads aloud

Mangold Duo performs, featuring Bonnie Mangold and Marilyn Mangold Garst, part of the UUFD Recital Series, 7 p.m., Nov. 22, Unitarian Universalist Fellowship, 419 San Juan Dr. 22nd annual Artisan’s Holiday Gift Show and Sale, refreshments, door prizes and more, 9 a.m.-4 p.m., Nov. 23, Oak Room at Henry Strater Hotel, 699 Main Ave. 247-0235.

Works from Dina Herrmann, thru Dec. 7, Olio in Mancos. 533-1381.

The Met: Live in HD, featuring Glass’ “Akhnaten,” 10:55 a.m., Nov. 23, Student Union at Fort Lewis College, Vallecito Room. www.durangoconcerts.com.

“Inside Out: Visions from the Artist’s Mind,” thru April 2020, Southern Ute Museum, 503 Ouray Dr. www.southernutemuseum.org.

International Survivors of Suicide Loss Day, featuring documentary screening and more, 11 a.m.-1 p.m., Nov. 23, Durango Public Library. 247-7215 or afsp.org/SurvivorDay.

Karaoke, 8 p.m., Thur-Sun, 8th Ave. Tavern, 509 E 8th Ave.

Henry Stoy, 10 a.m.-1 p.m., Nov. 24, Jean-Pierre Restaurant & Wine Bar, 601 Main Ave.

Upcoming

Community Thanksgiving Dinner, 11:30 a.m.-1:30 p.m., Nov. 28, La Plata County Fairgrounds.

Writers’ Workshop, 5 p.m., Nov. 21, Ignacio Community Library.

Trivia Night, 6:30-8:30 p.m., Nov. 21, Powerhouse Science Center, 1333 Camino del Rio.

“Jay & Silent Bob Reboot” screening with Kevin Smith and Jason Mewes, for ages 21+, 7:30 p.m., Nov. 21, Community Concert Hall at Fort Lewis College. www.du rangoconcerts.com.

Listening Session with Sen. Michael Bennet, DColo., 10 a.m.-1 p.m., Nov. 21, Ignacio Community Library.

“Planes, Trains and Automobiles” screening, part of Not Your Average Holiday Movie Series, doors open, 6:30 p.m., film begins, 7 p.m., Nov. 21, Sunflower Theatre in Cortez. www.sunflowertheatre.org.

20 n Nov. 14, 2019

Monthly Climate Strike, supported by SASCO, Indivisible Durango and the FLC Environmental Center, 4:30-5:30 p.m., Nov. 29, meet across from 11th Street Station.

Pine Needle’s 18th annual CAIC Fundraiser, all proceeds donated to Friends of Colorado Avalanche Information Center, 5-9 p.m., Dec. 5, Ska Brewing, 225 Girard St. Ye Olde Fashioned Christmas event, featuring Rudolph Run, carolers from Mancos Valley Chorus, gallery walk, Winter Holiday Popup Market, meet Santa and Mrs. Claus and more, hosted by Mancos Creative District, 5-7 p.m., Dec. 6; 10 a.m.-4 p.m., Dec. 14, downtown Mancos.

946-6507 and www.mancoscreativedistrict.com.

Noel Night with photographer Tony Stromberg, artist reception on Noel Night, 5-9 p.m., Dec. 6, show runs

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Email Rachel at telegraph@durangotelegraph.com one-star reviews of strip clubs in Vegas. If you haven’t read these, you really should. Tales of robbery and deceit.

Reports of ugly strippers and uglier bouncers. Rooms where the bright lights are accidentally turned on for fleeting moments. Let’s just say, if there ain’t onions out in these places, they definitely couldn’t hurt.

– One star, Rachel

thru Dec. 31, Sorrel Sky Gallery, 828 Main Ave. www.sorrel sky.com.

Taste of Christmas Community Event, featuring carriage rides, a gingerbread house contest, photos with Santa and more, 5:30-8 p.m., Dec. 6, ELHI Community Center in Ignacio. 563-4100.

“Twas the Week After Christmas” and “Oliver,” opening night, 7 p.m., Dec. 6, shows also run Dec. 13-14 and 2 p.m., Dec. 7-8, 14-15, Durango Arts Center, 802 E. 2nd Ave. www.durangoarts.org 259-2606.

JP Harris performs, 8 p.m., Dec. 6, Dolores River Brewery.

The Dolores River Brewery Holiday Arts and Crafts Show, featuring pottery, arts, live music from member of The Last Nickel Band, and more, 10 a.m.-3 p.m., Dec. 7, Dolores River Brewery.

Season’s 25th Anniversary Community Event, benefit for Women’s Resource Center, 6-9 p.m., Dec. 10, Seasons Rotisserie & Grill, 764 Main Ave. Free Legal Clinic, 4-5 p.m., Dec. 13, Ignacio Community Library. 563-9287.

Deadline for “On the Town” submissions is Monday at noon.

To submit an item email: calendar@durango telegraph.com

FreeWillAstrology

by Rob Brezsny ARIES (March 21-April 19): If there are any potential Aries heroes or leaders or saviors out there, the coming weeks will be a favorable time for you to fully bloom and assert your practical magnificence. The lessons you have learned while improvising workable solutions for yourself are ripe to be applied to the riddles that are puzzling your tribe or group or gang. I want to let you know, however, that to achieve maximum effectiveness, you should be willing to do good deeds for people who may not be able to pay you back.

TAURUS (April 20-May 20): You’re entering a phase of your astrological cycle when it’s crucial that your receptivity be as robust as possible. To guide you in this delightful but perhaps challenging work, here are good questions for you to pose. 1. Do you know what help and support you need most, and are you brave and forthright enough to ask for it? 2. Is there any part of you, perhaps unconscious, that believes you don’t deserve gifts and blessings? 3. Do you diligently cultivate your capacity to be refreshed and restored? 4.

Are you eagerly responsive when life surprises you with learning experiences and inspirations?

GEMINI (May 21-June 20): “Many people will not be honest because they fear loss of intimacy and togetherness,” self-help author Henry Cloud writes. But the truth, he adds, is that “honesty brings people closer together,” because it “strengthens their identities.” Therein lies the tender paradox: “The more you realize your separate identities, the closer you can become.”

Living according to this principle may not be as easy or convenient as being deceptive and covert, but it’s ultimately more gratifying. Henry Cloud concludes, “Telling loved ones what is really on your mind and telling others what you really think is the foundation of love.”

CANCER (June 21-July 22): “Maturity is having the ability to escape categorization,” poet Kenneth Rexroth said.

That’s the opposite of the conventional wisdom. For many people, the process of growing up and becoming a seasoned adult means trying to fit in, to find one’s category, to be serious and steady and stable. Rexroth, on the other hand, suggested that when you fully ripen into your potentials, you transcend standard definitions; you don’t adhere to others’ expectations; you are uniquely yourself, outside and beyond all pigeonholes and classifications. The coming weeks will be an excellent time for you to practice and cultivate this sacred art.

LEO (July 23-Aug. 22): Is there an event from your past that would be empowering for you to remember in detail? Is there a neglected but still viable dream you could resurrect, thereby energizing your enthusiasm for the future? Are there old allies you’ve lost touch with but who, if you called on them, could provide you with just the boost you need? Is there a familiar pleasure you’ve grown numb to but could reinvigorate by visualizing the original reasons you loved it? The coming weeks will be a favorable time to meditate on these questions.

SAGITTARIUS (Nov. 22Dec. 21): In my estimation, what you’ve experienced lately has been akin to a fermentation process. It’s as if you’re undergoing a transformation with resemblances to the way that grapes turn into wine or milk becomes yogurt or dough rises before being baked into bread.

You may have had to endure some discomfort, which is the case for anything in the midst of substantial change. But I think you’ll ultimately be quite pleased with the results, which I expect will be ready no later than ten days after your birthday – and quite possibly sooner.

VIRGO (Aug. 23-Sept. 22): Catholic St. Francis (1181– 1226) loved animals and the natural world. According to one folkloric tale, he was once traveling on foot with several companions when they came upon a place where the trees were filled with birds. Francis said, “Wait for me while I go preach to my sisters the birds.” He proceeded to do just that. The birds were an attentive audience for the duration of his sermon, apparently captivated by his tender tones. Seven centuries later, author Rebecca West offered a critique of the bird-whisperer. “Did St. Francis preach to the birds?” she asked.

“Whatever for? If he really liked birds he would have done better to preach to the cats.” In the coming weeks, Virgo, I encourage you to do the metaphorical equivalent of preaching to both the birds and the cats.

CAPRICORN (Dec. 22-Jan. 19): Many books have been written about Joan of Arc, a 15th-century teen-age peasant girl whose improbable ascent to military leadership, under the guidance of her divine visions, was crucial in France’s victory over the English. Among the many miraculous elements of her story was the fact that less than a year before she led troops into battle on horseback, she didn’t know how to ride a horse. She learned by riding around her father’s farm astride his cows. I foresee an equivalent marvel in your future, Capricorn. By this time next year, you will have developed an aptitude that might seem unimaginable now. (P.S. There’s evidence Joan was a Capricorn.)

LIBRA (Sept. 23-Oct. 22): Every now and then I authorize you Libras to shed your polite, tactful personas and express the angst you sometimes feel but usually hide. That’s now! To egg you on, read this mischievous rant by Libran blogger Clary Gay (claryfightwood.tumblr.com): “We Libras are constantly thinking about how to make everyone else comfortable and happy.

There’s not a minute going by when we’re not worrying about radiating a soothing and comforting aura so everyone can have a good time. If a Libra is cranky, it’s because they snapped! Because of some nonLibra who doesn’t appreciate them! If a Libra is mean to a person, it’s their own damn fault!”

SCORPIO (Oct. 23-Nov. 21): Poet Robert Bly tells us that the door to the soul is unlocked. You don’t have to struggle through any special machinations to open it or go through it.

Furthermore, the realm of the soul is always ready for you. Always! It harbors the precise treasure you need in order to be replenished and empowered. I bring this to your attention, Scorpio, because I think that during the next two weeks, you should abide as much as possible in the soul’s realm – the cornucopia of holy truths and ever-fresh riches.

AQUARIUS (Jan. 20-Feb. 18): The Divine Comedy is one of history’s greatest literary works. Its author, Dante Alighieri, was 43 when he began writing the Inferno, the first part of his three-part masterpiece. Up until that time, he had published just one book and a few poems, and had also abandoned work on two unfinished books. Early on in the Inferno, the not-yet-renowned author presents a fictional scene in which he meets with the spirits of antiquity’s most famous authors: Virgil, Homer, Horace, Ovid and Lucan. Those illustrious five tell Dante he is such an important writer that he ranks sixth, after them, in his excellence. I’m going to encourage you to dare indulging in behavior like Dante’s: to visualize and extol – and yes, even brag about – the virtues and skills that will ultimately be your signature contribution to this world.

PISCES (Feb. 19-March 20): The Latin word for sea is mare.

Flustra is the calm sea. Undisonus means “resounding with waves.” Caeruleus is the sea’s deep shade of blue, aestus is the tide, and aequoreus means “connected with the sea.”

My hope is that as you meditate on these lyrical terms, you’ll be moved to remember the first lakes, rivers and oceans you ever swam in. You’ll recall your time floating in your mother’s womb and your most joyous immersions in warm baths and hot springs.

Why? It’s a favorable time to seek the healing and rejuvenating powers of primal waters – both metaphorically and literally.

telegraph

What Kate & Nate wear on their day off

... and you can too.

(Even if your name isn’t McKinnon. Or MacKinnon.)

In a variety of sizes for all your exploits on and off the red carpet.

(Also available in muscle T to show off your pipes.)

T-shirts: $15 Tanks: $12 Hats: $20 (plus shipping and handling)

Order yours today at: durangotelegraph.com or stop by our Tele central: 777 Main Ave., #214, Durango

Nov. 14, 2019 n 21

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 classifieds@durango telegraph.com n 970-259-0133 n 777 Main Ave., #214 Approximate office hours: Mon., 9ish - 5ish Tues., 9ish - 5ish Wed., 9ish - 3ish Thurs., On delivery Fri., 10:30ish - 2ish please call ahead: 259-0133.

Announcements

prices. Kim & David Librande 36du rango@gmail.com 970-259-9286 Have You Done Fire Mitigation in 2019?

Did you know there is a 100% tax credit available for 2019? Call BPX Durango Inc, a tax preparation service for more details 970-749-6063

The Perfect Gift for your favorite dirtbag. Literature from Durango’s own Benighted Publications. The Desert, The Climbing Zine, The Great American Dirtbags, American Climber, Climbing Out of Bed and Graduating From College Me are available at: Maria’s Bookshop, Pine Needle Mountaineering, the Sky Store, or on the interweb at www.climbingzine.com.

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

Services What Can I Do for You? Give us a call or email We can help.

Shopping, errands, repairs et.c. Fair

22 n Nov. 14, 2019

HaikuMovieReview ‘Her’ Features the only sex scene I know of that has a dead cat involved – Lainie Maxson

Fall Cleanse Special Tis the Season! 15% off colonic and ozone steam sauna sessions. 5 day guided, food based detox. Learn more. ri versendwellness.com call Colleen 970903-8439

Mommy and Me Dance Class Come join the fun! Now registering for classes. Call 970-749-6456. mom myandmedance.com.

and CLA’s. No antibiotics, hormones or insecticides. Taking orders now for December pickup. Halves, quarters and bundles. 970-749-3176

BodyWork

Lowest Prices on Storage!

Inside/outside near Durango and Bayfield, RJ Mini Storage. 970-259-3494

Holiday Massage Gift Certificates Meg Bush, LMT 970-759-0199

Firewood Pinon $225 a cord, cedar $300 a cord, mixed $250 a cord. Delivery options 719453-5632.

Harmony Organizing and Cleaning Services Home and office 970-403-6192 Himalayan Kitchen 992 Main Ave., 970-259-0956, www.himkitchen.com. Bringing you a taste of Nepal, Tibet & India. Try our allyou-can-eat lunch buffet. The dinner menu offers a variety of tempting choices, including yak, lamb, chicken, beef & seafood; extensive veggies; freshly baked bread. Full bar. Get your lunch punch card – 10th lunch free. Hours: Lunch, 11am-2:30 p.m. & dinner, Sun. Thurs., 5-9:30 p.m., Fri. & Sat. ‘til 10 p.m.

Closed 2:30 - 5, daily.

Connecting w/Spirit Guides Transformative Breathwork Shamanic journeying & breathwork are two healing ways of cleansing old wounds, welcoming new life, self compassion & confidence. Individual sessions @ Tatanka Lodge DW2. See www.mind bodyhealthnurse.com or call Florence Gaia, RN,M.Ed. 259-6510.

massageintervention.life Voted best massage in Durango 201819. Couples, cupping, local CBD. Reviews on FB + Yelp. 970-903-2984

Marketing Small and Local Businesses Media, social media, website content, SEO, etc. for small, local, independent or startup businesses. Email jnderge@gmail.com

Massage with Kathryn 20+ years experience offering a fusion of esalen style, deep tissue massage with therapeutic stretching & Acutonics. New clients receive $5 off first session. To schedule appt. call 970-201-3373.

Advanced Duct Cleaning Air duct cleaning specializing in dryer vents. Improves indoor air quality; reduces dust and allergens, energy bills and fire risk. 970-247-2462 www.advanced ductcleaninginc.com

ForSale

Snow Tires 4 Michelin X-Ice 195 65R 15, like new $250, 970-759-0551 Reruns Home Furnishings Cozy furnishing! Lamps, rugs, art, night stands, writing desk. Cool vintage dishes – Pyrex & Fiestaware. New great stuff and daily markdowns. 572 E. 6th Ave. 385-7336.

RealEstate Radon Services Free radon testing and consultation.

Call Colorado Radon Abatement and Detection for details. 970- 946-1618.

HelpWanted

ForRent

Ski for Free at Purgatory Purgatory now hiring multiple positions. Apply online at skipurg.com, email hr@purgatoryresort.com or call 970-3852162.

Classes/Workshops Peace and Balance for Holidays Tame Inner Critic & Work With Difficult Emotions & Relationships two Saturdays: December 7 & 14 – 9:00am– 5:30pm Myah Lee, Certified Mindfulness Teacher location: Myah Mindfulness Studio, Durango, CO registration fee: sliding scale - $200 - $300 (scholarships available.) To register, contact MyahMindful ness@gmail.com or 970-946-5379.

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Yakima Fat Cat Evo Ski rack Yakima’s sleekest, quietest and sweetest roof rack, wide enough to carry six pairs of fat skis – up to 136mm wide – or four snowboards. Mounts tool-free on virtually any roof rack. OverHang clamp attachment makes it easier to reach your skis or boards. Mirror black finish. Used only one season. New: $309; yours for only $209! 970-749-2595 P265/70R17 tires Five new Bridgestone Dueler H/T 684 II tires P265/70R17. Rated M+S. From new Toyota 4Runner. 970-375-1870 Local Grass Finished Beef All natural, dry-aged, rich in omegas

In Town House for Rent 800 sq. ft. fully furnished, utils/wifi incl. Quiet neighborhood, back yard borders Animas Mountain. No pets, refs. required. Avail. Jan. 20 – July. $1110/mo.

970-799-2258.

CommunityService Nov. 22 Local Tree Cutting for Christmas Tree Lot: This year, San Juan Mountain Association will cut and haul 220 white fir trees along the Junction Creek Forest Road for their annual Christmas tree Lot. Volunteers are needed both heavy and light duty jobs. If interested, contact Will at willjanet@bresnan.net.

Durango Community Thanksgiving Dinner Everyone is invited to the Durango Community Thanksgiving Dinner at the La Plata County Fairgrounds on Nov. 28 from 11:30 a.m. – 1:30 p.m., or until food runs out. Take-out meals will be available after 1:30. To volunteer or request a meal delivery, call 970-259-4061. To donate a pie, please drop off at the Fairgrounds on Thanksgiving morning; there can never be enough pie! Please join the celebration of this amazing community event. There is no charge for the dinner, but donations are appreciated. For more info., check out Durango Community Thanksgiving Dinner on Facebook.

Thanks-for-Giving Food Drive The Durango Food Bank and Express Employment Professionals have partnered to host a Thanks-For-Giving Food Drive through Nov. 15. Recommended shopping lists are posted on the Durango Food Bank’s Facebook page. Your tax-deductible donations can be dropped off at Express Employment Professionals, 321 S. Camino Del Rio, Mon.-Fri., 8 a.m. -5 p.m.

Community Compassion Outreach in Durango is collecting new and used tents, tarps, space blankets, sleeping bags and mats to assist people experiencing homelessness in our area. Items can be dropped off at Adventure Christian Church, 11th Street and East Third Ave., Tuesdays and Thursdays from 3 - 6 p.m. through the alley entrance. Cash donations

can be made at www.communitycompas sionoutreach.com.

Nov. 14 Polar Express to Benefit STEM Education The Powerhouse Science Center will be holding a Polar Express fund-raiser train ride on Thurs., Nov. 14. Prices are $25, $30 and $40. Tickets can be bought in person at the Powerhouse. For more info, call 2599234. All proceeds benefit STEM education in the Four Corners.

National Rural Electric Coop Association’s Youth Tour June 17-25 High school juniors can now apply for the National Rural Electric Cooperative Association’s 2020 National Youth Tour Conference in Washington, D.C., June 17-25. The Youth Tour allows students to learn about the coop business model, visit historic monuments and memorials, tour museums, meet elected officials and more. LPEA will sponsor five local students to join the Colorado delegation of about 45 students. More than 1,900 students from 45 states are expected to participate. To apply, complete application, along with a 500-1,000-word composition on “My Favorite Cooperative Principle.” Applications are available at www.lpea.coop.

Deadline is 5 p.m., Fri., Dec. 20. For more info: (970) 382-3511 or ltucker@lpea.coop.

Music in the Mountains Announces Music Lesson Scholarships Applications are now available for the 2020 Music in the Mountains Private Lesson Scholarships for students K-12 in Durango

and surrounding areas. Sponsored by Bank of Colorado, scholarships provide financial assistance for students by paying half the total cost of private music lessons. Students must show interest toward a particular instrument and a desire to increase their musical knowledge. Financial need is important but it is not the only criterion. Applications available at www.MusicintheMountains.com, ask your music teacher, visit Bank of Colorado on Main Avenue, or call Music in the Mountains at 970-385-6820 for more info. Applications must be submitted by Nov. 14.

Nonprofit Seeks Volunteers for High School Exchange ASSE International, a nonprofit student exchange program, is seeking volunteers to serve as Area Representatives. ASSE offers qualified students from around the world, between the age of 15-18, the opportunity to spend a high school year or semester in the United States with a host family. The opportunity to study abroad and live with a host family is also offered to American high school students between 15-18. For more info, call 800-733-2773, visit us online at www.asse.com, or email asseusawest@asse.com.

Southwest Colorado Multiple Sclerosis Society is excited to announce it has re-activated and is welcoming new members from across La Plata, Montezuma, Archuleta, Dolores and San Juan counties. Anyone living with MS or caregivers of those diagnosed with MS are encouraged to join. Support services include:

NewspaperOrigami

telegraph

monthly community meeting, weekly exercise group in Durango, financial assistance grants, and scholarships for outdoor and healthy living programs. Individuals may submit requests for financial assistance to pay for travel to specialists, retrofits their car or home for accessibility, psychotherapy sessions, medical equipment, and outdoor programs.

Scholarships cannot cover medications. Scholarships are available to anyone in SW CO with MS, regardless of income. Apply online at: www.swcmss.org Let’s Talk Trash!

City and county residents are reminded to report instances of bears accessing trash. The City of Durango and La Plata County have ordinances meant to reduce the amount of trash available to bears, and both require residents to report violations to be effective.

City residents should call City Code Enforcement at 375-4930. County residents should call Central Dispatch at 385-2900. Residents and businesses should contact their waste hauler if their bear-resistant trash container or dumpster is damaged and in need of repair or replacement. If the container was provided by the City of Durango, call 375-5004.

Otherwise, contact your waste hauler. All bear-resistant trash containers and dumpsters are only bear-resistant when used properly and can be damaged by bears when not latched. Containers should not be overfilled and lids should be fully closed and latched at all times, unless the container needs to be unlatched on the morning of collection only.

For more tips on keeping our community and bears safe go to bearsmartdurango.org.

An owl

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