Durango Telegraph - December 5, 2019

Nogging our eggs

­elegraph the­­­­durango

FREE Dec. 5, 2019

Vol. XVIII, No. 49 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

Power in numbers

Into the vortex

The perfect storm

LPEA not alone in bid for Tri-State buy-out p8

Getting sucked into wonderfully weird Sedona p12-13

Lessons learned from the epic avi season that was p14

Congratulations Oh Hi THC Seltzers!

First Place Winner: Best Edible 2019 Cannabis Cup

The Alternative Resource Variety of Strains • Hash/Concentrates • Edibles • Tinctures • ATM on site

This one goes to

11 (Issue 11 is landing soon.)

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

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

2 n Dec. 5, 2019

telegraph

Bodo Park

Grandview (HWY 160 East)

Recreational: 9:00 AM - 8:00 PM Medical: 9:00 AM - 6:45 PM 72 Suttle Street, Units F/G , 970.259.3674

Recreational Adult Use Only: 9:00 AM - 8:00 PM 37 CR 232, 970.426.4381

lineup

8

4 La Vida Local

Exit strategy LPEA not alone in bid for Tri-State contract buy-out

4 Thumbin’ It

Ear to the ground: “Half the joy of pizza is that someone else makes it and brings it to you.”

– Local discussing why making your own pizza at home will never be as good as picking up the phone and ordering one

BYOB

by Tracy Chamberlin

5 Word on the Street

11

6-7 Soapbox 11 Murder Ink

The follow-up Breakthrough author of Waking Lions proves she’s no one-hit wonder

by Jeffrey Mannix

thepole

RegularOccurrences

It’s last call for Rico’s sole liquor store, The Motherlode. After 22 years of slinging suds and spirits in the tiny mountain hamlet, owner David Fabian has called it quits. Speaking from his winterstead in Baja, Mexico, this week, Fabian said he sold his last sixer three weeks ago.

“I’ve been doing it for so long, I needed less things to think about when I’m down here,” said Fabian, 72. “It was a good run.”

12-13 Day in the Life 16 Flash in the Pan

12-13

17 Top Shelf

Good vibrations

18 On the Town

From shamans to shredders, there’s something about Sedona

20 Ask Rachel

photos by Stephen Eginoire

21 Free Will Astrology

16

22 Classifieds

Covering ground Talking with the CAIC about lessons learned from last year’s epic avi season

by Jo Ann Allen/Colorado Public Radio

On the cover: Jeremy Yanko dices up some earlyseaon bluebird turns in the San Juans./ Photo by Stephen Eginoire

17

In it for the long haul: In the Nov. 21 edition, we stated that bulkheads used on abandoned mines in the Bonita Peak Superfund site were meant to be temporary installations. Bulkheads, however, are meant to be permanent structures that allow for access so they can be maintained.

The White Buffalo L.A.-based Jake Smith brings the dark side of alt-country to the ACT

by Chris Aaland

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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

22 Haiku Movie Review

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

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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 shwag, booze and flattery.

telegraph

Originally from California, the young ski bum moved to Rico in ’72 around the time Telluride Ski Resort opened. “I’m a snowbird now, though,” he said.

Fabian, who owns the building, said he tried to sell the business but had no takers. “Winter’s pretty tough here,” he said.

Someone came in and bought the remaining inventory, he said, and the lights of the neon beer signs went out with little fanfare. “We may have drank a few beers,” he said.

But just like the green that will inevitably return to the surrounding 12,000-foot peaks, hope springs eternal. “I’m hoping someone comes along and picks it up,” he said. “You won’t get rich, but you can make a living.”

As for Rico-ites, the dry season is only beginning. The Enterprise Bar, which is next door, closed the day after Thanksgiving for two weeks.

“They’re kinda bummed,” Fabian said of his regulars who will no longer be able to get ’loded.

“The town needs it.”

But all is not lost. Fabian said he’ll entertain all good offers. “It’s a nice opportunity for someone,” he said. If that someone’s you, give Fabian a call: 970-729-0542. Do it for Rico.

Seed money The Four Corners Slow Money movement continues to sprout. The local nonprofit, which offers interest-free microloans to local farmers, recently announced it had received yet another $5,000 anonymous donation. The group now has until Dec. 15 to match the donation or risk losing it.

“We are super excited to announce that we have received an anonymous offer of $5,000 from a local person,” Slow Money member Linda Illsley said. “We need all the help we can get in getting the word out so we can make this happen.”

To help them reach their goal, folks can either ante up the $250 membership fee (tax deductible) or if the $250 is too steep, they can join as a group.

By joining, members get to vote on the next recipient for the Slow Money, to take place in February.

In October, Four Corners Slow Money handed out its first microloan to Linley Dixon of Durango’s Abode House Farms.

For info., go to fourcornersslowmoney.org.

Dec. 5, 2019 n

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opinion

LaVidaLocal The double-edged helix I just took a DNA test, turns out I’m 100 percent that … boring.

Yes, like countless others with too much time and money on their hands – and at the behest of my mother – I have climbed aboard the genome bandwagon. I plunked down $75 (or rather, she did), corralled my spit into an impossibly tiny test tube, which requires more skill than one would think, and mailed it off to a complete stranger in a saliva sweat shop. And I did it all just to have my dreams of greatness dashed. Turns out, I do not hail from anywhere cool with tropical surf breaks or killer skiing. Nor am I related to anyone rich or famous, other than Genghis Khan, who apparently we are all related to. I am what they call your run-of-the-mill British Isles mutt, with all due respect to the Queen and her good subjects.

Admittedly, I initially was not so keen on handing over the keys to my genetic stuff to Big Brother. My parents, kids and two sisters already took the plunge, or in this case, hawked the loug. My brother, the conspiracy theorist, and I remained the only hold-outs.

“I'm not gonna pay someone to give them my data that they will use for their profit. I try to minimize my online footprint – no Facebook or Twitter or any of that nonsense,” he argued, right before launching into his Comet Pizza tirade. (Apparently conspiracy websites are immune from the “online footprint” rule.)

He had a good point. I mean, who’s to say what they could do with such highly sought-after, sturdy Midwestern stock? Maybe there was some sicko out there looking to make enough clones for a sequel to “Fargo” or possibly corner the market on the world’s flannel supply. Or, a strange genetic mutation could lead to a rogue evil Missy twin, one who makes her bed every day, vacuums under the couch and never swears in front of the children.

Worse case, it could all be part of a sinister plot to gain mind control and get us to bow down to an insane and verbally obtuse overlord from the planet Trumplandia, a gaseous glowing orange ball of hot air and noxious winds.

As horrifying as this all sounded, there was an upside. I recently read about how a DNA database was used to finger a suspect in a long unsolved murder via a third cousin. I figured if my spittle could help stop the next Ted Bundy (which unfortunately, would mean I was related to Ted Bundy) then orange gasbag dictators be damned.

Plus, who knows? Maybe the results would rattle a few skeletons from the family closet – like a woman I know who discovered she had a brother she never knew

about. Or conversely, maybe I would find out I’m not really related to some of those relations I tend to quietly unfriend on Facebook. Think of the relief!

But the good news would have to wait – it seems the spit-processing center had a backlog (which is really gross if you think about it.) Finally, though, my tube made it through the sequence-o-meter and the dark, timeless mysteries of the eons, the very cosmic fiber of my being, were revealed with the click of a mouse.

“Your DNA Ancestry results are in!”

OK, anticlimactic to say the least – sort of like skipping to the last page of War and Peace or tuning into a radio station just in time to hear the closing riff of “Stairway to Heaven.”

Which isn’t to say it was all bad. For starters, this whole Ireland/Scotland business. My maternal grandmother was adopted and little was ever known about her origins. For some reason, we always fancied her German (maybe because she made a kick ass German potato salad), but DNA results blew that theory out of the English Channel. And when I announced to people that I was more than 50 percent Irish, it was as if a light went off.

“That explains a lot,” was typically the first response, which I think is in reference to my predilection for plaid. But I also like to wear clogs, and I hear clog dancing is big over there. And when I was a freshman, I was on my high school golf team, no doubt because of my lineage (and the fact they were desperate for warm bodies.) Oh, and I really used to like U2 – I even saw them once in concert.

Plus, I don’t want to brogue, but my people, they are a hardy people. Potato famines and snake infestations are not for sissies – not to mention wicked sunburns.

And, think of all the possibilities going forward – green beer on St. Patrick’s Day, haggis, corned beef, Scotch whiskey and blarney sandwiches. Kilts without underwear, bagpipes, “Danny Boy” and the weird little black dogs with the short legs are practically my birthright. Maybe I’d even take up the caber toss, or at least throw my golf clubs around the links for old time’s sake.

But perhaps the best part is seeing all my relations the world over. Like these people Sue and Terry, who it turns out really are my parents, as well as all the fourth – sixth cousins I’ll never meet, like “roshar37” and “grybakdow.”

Ironically enough, I guess I will never really know if my brother is my Irish twin.

Or if my children are related to me – their DNA tests were a gift from their other grandmother and on a completely different database. But for $75 and a vial of my spit, I bet I can find out.

This Week’s Sign of the Downfall:

Thumbin’It Last week’s storms making for one of the best opening weekends at Purg in years if not decades, with the whole frontside open and powder conditions

Fort Lewis College paying it forward by giving area students on civic scholarships a matching $500 scholarship and continuing its effort to make the school affordable to all Folks who eschew the lure of online retailers and free shipping and instead spend their dollars locally this holiday season, helping to keep Durango vibrant and viable

4 n Dec. 5, 2019

– Missy Votel

The unofficial start of the avalanche season in SW Colorado, with two snowshoers setting off and getting caught in a slide (but thankfully escaping) last weekend on Red Mountain Pass Bleak news that humans have yet to make a dent in their appetite for fossil fuels, with the annual Global Carbon Budget, compiled by a consortium of researchers, finding that carbon emissions will hit a record high in 2019 The continued problem of drunken driving in the region, with Colorado and New Mexico ranking among the top 15 states for most DUIs

telegraph

Do Not Google “Perineum Sunning” Josh Brolin, the actor who hunted pirate booty in “The Goonies” and plays Thanos in the Marvel movies, tried to get behind perineum sunning this past week because it’s supposed to regulate your hormones. Butt it didn’t work out. In fact, the experience went so far south that Brolin cracked and took to Instagram to complain about the hole thing in an attempt to stop others from trying it. Since he’s famous, we can assume Brolin helped others with his message, but he’s probably still bummed.

WordontheStreet

Q

With Durango’s local shopping extravaganza Noel Night this Friday the Telegraph asked: “What are you hoping to score a deal on?”

Bryant

“A vacation to Fiji.”

Margy

“A reindeer.”

Craig

“A cure for jet lag.”

Don’t take it out on the moose – we warned you.

Aedan

“A guitar.”

We will be on vacation starting 12/18/19, returning to the office Mon., 12/30/19.

Griffin

“A Honda Civic.”

Happy Holidays!

telegraph

Dec. 5, 2019 n 5

SoapBox

ReTooned/by Shan Wells

Root for the climate insurgency To the editor, There have now been four Democratic candidates vying for the 2020 nomination to unseat Republican incumbent Scott Tipton, who denies climate change is human caused, ignoring our “climate emergency.” Three Democratic candidates, judging from published announcements and websites, have no strategic focus on climate. I am leading on climate.

If money is the final arbiter in Colorado’s Third Congressional District Democratic primary, data shows funding heavily skewed toward one establishment candidate, while my grassroots climate efforts are just getting going.

The link to a campaign finances breakdown is on my website, RootForCitizenCongressman.org. Total receipts and cash-on-hand for each campaign at the end of 2019Q3, are: • “Establishment Rerun Campaign” of Diane Mitsch Bush: $294,942 (in 2018 she brought in $1.9 million, and lost to Tipton by a wide margin); cash on hand, $184,059 • “Traditional Cowboy Campaign” of Donald Valdez: $24,945; cash on hand, $10,456 (Valdez dropped out Nov. 1).

• “Climate Insurgency Campaign” of Root Routledge: $2,001 ($1,516 as credit-card loans from candidate); cash on hand, $653. “Grass roots” by definition. I ran a brief two-month trial campaign at the end of the 2018 election cycle, bringing in receipts of $3,238 ($2,024 as candidate loans and contributions). With minimal visibility, I still earned 2 percent of the 29-county District 3 Assembly votes.

• “Corporate CEO Campaign” of James Iacino: No data; entered race after third quarter 2019 with ability to self-fund.

Although climate holds primal significance, my4

6 n Dec. 5, 2019

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campaign’s strategic focus covers four policy areas regarding a viable future for America and our planet. My congressional focus is clear, because multiple 2019 House bills have already been written that address some of these priorities (see my website for details) which include: 1. Healthy democracy: HR1 – For the People Act. Address free, fair and secure elections, campaign finance reform, dark money in politics, gerrymandering, restoration of the Voting Rights Act, and more.

2. Healthy Population: HR1384 – Medicare for All Act. Improved coverage; single-payer financing; provider choice. Health care is a moral human right, not a commodity that returns huge profits extracted from peoples’ suffering. “Medicare for All” works for everyone. Most ordinary people will not only get an increase in take-home pay but unencumbered access to better health care. Premiums, co-pays, deductibles and out-of-pocket expenses are eliminated and replaced with a modest increase in Medicare withholding. Yet everyone is protected from financial ruin due to catastrophic illness, accident and outrageous drug prices.

3. Healthy Economy: Democrats need to take back political control of our country. We need an economy that works for everyone, not just the richest 1 percent. That includes investments in education and infrastructure, a living wage and strong local economies.

4. Healthy Environment: HR763 – Energy Innovation and Carbon Dividend Act; and HRes109 – Green New Deal.

HR763, supported by Citizens Climate Lobby, puts an increasing fee-price on carbon as it enters the economy from the well, mine or import (with border adjustments).

Fees get deposited in a “Carbon Dividend Trust Fund” from which the fees are equitably returned monthly to legal residents of the country. It’s an effective revenueneutral policy that is conservative and helps people with increasing costs. Most people will come out ahead.

The HRes109 Green New Deal calls for a systemwide perspective and response, at the urgency and scale of our

climate emergency, with a just transition to 100 percent renewable energy, zero carbon emissions and climate justice for affected communities and families. Having a systems problem-solving background, my goal is to help produce legislation in support of the GND vision and goals, including huge investments in climate mitigation research.

I will fight to protect the Colorado we love, including our environment, public lands, water, rural needs, local economies and forests.

To go to Washington and fight this battle for our future and lead on climate, I need two things: donations now; and delegates voting for me at the District Assembly on April 17, 2020. The delegate process starts with engaging democracy at your Precinct Caucuses on March 7, 2020 and getting elected as a County Delegate and then as a District 3 Delegate for Root.

As your Representative, I promise you honesty, integrity, openness and the technical and political ability to fight for our future. I will help local communities be successful with their climate plans and actions. In particular, I will engage town hall meetings throughout Colorado’s Third District, listen and get to know you and your concerns.

– Root Routledge, Durango

Thanks for bridging the gap To the editor, Thank you Mayor Youssef, Councilors Brookie and Bettin, Parks & Recreation and Multimodal Advisory Board members and all the Durango citizens who stood up and spoke up for the northern extent of the Animas River Trail by connecting the eastern and western sides of the trail via completion of the long-planned 32nd Street pedestrian bridges project.

It is, indeed, an important project for the entire city, as Mayor Youssef indicated at the budget hearing. The so-

telegraph

cial, environmental, economic and public health benefits are numerous and an important investment in our city.

By providing an additional option for all residents to safely cross 32nd Street, by separating motorized and pedestrian traffic, the completed trail and bridges will: • Increase access and improve connectivity and mobility throughout the city and ensure the safety of all users, especially children; • Encourage alternatives to driving; • Support increased use with a new trail section available to residents and visitors; • Draw people to North Durango and increase commerce on N. Main • Improve public health; and • Create a new amenity in North Durango.

Public infrastructure projects like this are exactly the dedicated sales tax’s intended purpose – to make improvements to our community we cannot do without it or as individuals. The proposed 32nd Street safety study and design will further enhance the above benefits. Thank you to everyone who supported these improvements in the north end of town.

– Ellen Stein, Durango

“We’ll print damned-near anything” The Telegraph prides itself on a liberal letters policy. We offer this forum to the public to settle differences, air opinions & undertake healthy discourse. We have only three requests: limit letters to 750 words, letters must be signed by the writer; and thank-you lists and libelous, personal attacks are unwelcome. Send your insights by Tuesday at noon to: PO Box 332, Durango, 81302 or e-mail your profundities to: telegraph@durangotelegraph.com. Let the games begin ...

Dec. 5, 2019 n 7

LocalNews

Solar isn’t the only option for La Plata Electric Association when it comes to locally produced, renewable energy. According to LPEA officials, the coop’s service territory could support enough hydro-electric, wind, biofuels and more to supply the entire area./File photo

Power in numbers LPEA not alone in bid for buyout cost from Tri-State

by Tracy Chamberlin

L

a Plata Electric Association has been trying to increase local renewable energy production for the past several years. The struggle hasn’t been finding projects or opportunities to do so, it’s been the cap.

Under its contract with Tri-State Generation and Transmission, a wholesale energy provider, LPEA is required to purchase 95 percent of the electricity it needs from Tri-State – leaving only 5 percent the coop can produce locally from renewables.

LPEA has been at that limit for almost as long as it’s been working to increase it.

One of its first moves was to ask Tri-State to simply increase the cap to 10 percent, which was denied.

LPEA also considered taking advantage of a federal program under the Public Utility Regulatory Policies Act , which could exempt certain renewable energy endeavors from the cap. But that option was left in limbo by the federal agency overseeing it, the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission, or FERC. After another rural coop used this program, Tri-State tried to recover funds it lost by raising rates. FERC denied the move,

8 n Dec. 5, 2019

and Tri-State asked the agency to take another look at the case, but it never did.

Since no one knows if Tri-State would ever be able to recover the funds, most companies shy away from the program. The unanswered questions leave too much risk on the table.

However, another option to exceeding the cap is a partial contract, which means LPEA could get far less than 95 percent of its electricity from Tri-State.

The third, and final option, is a contract buyout. This would mean LPEA pays TriState to get out of its contract entirely. The coop could then produce its own power or purchase it on the open market.

Each option has its risks and rewards, but the coop can’t even begin to debate those until it knows exactly how much it would cost to buy out all or part of its contract. This is exactly what LPEA is trying to find out – and, it’s not the only coop that is.

Together we stand United Power, an energy provider serving more than 250,000 customers outside Denver, has also asked Tri-State how much it would cost to buy out its contract.

United submitted its request to TriState earlier this year, and LPEA this summer. Neither party was able to get an

telegraph

answer before Tri-State placed a moratorium on all partial contract and buy-out cost discussions late this fall.

It was the last straw for United and LPEA, and both ended up filing a complaint with the Colorado Public Utilities Commission on Nov. 5. The coops asked the commission to force Tri-State to come up with a price. After all, it’s not the first time Tri-State needed to figure it out.

In 2015, Kit Carson Electric Cooperative, a Taos-based energy provider, bought out its contract from Tri-State. And, earlier this year, Delta-Montrose Electric Cooperative also bought out of its contract.

The most recent scene in LPEA’s saga took place on Nov. 20 when the PUC decided to consolidate the United Power and LPEA cases.

“I think it adds a little more strength to the case,” LPEA CEO Jessica Matlock said.

The next step is for all three parties to agree to a hearing date, which she’d like to see happen before March.

According to Lee Boughey, senior manager for Communications and Public Affairs with Tri-State, the power provider is going through a significant transition.

It services 43 coops across four states – Wyoming, Nebraska, Colorado and New Mexico – and is trying to move toward4

cleaner and more flexible energy production. This move to clean energy comes with uncertainty, and plenty of bumps in the road.

“It’s critical we have a stable environment for our rate settings and contracts,” he explained.

Boughey said a Contract Committee was created to look into the requests for partial contracts and buyouts, and he expects the group to make recommendations before Tri-State’s annual meeting in April.

Walk and chew gum LPEA is still considering all its options, according to Matlock, including working to increase the 5 percent cap, move to a partial contract or pursue a contract buyout.

“All three are still on the table,” she added.

As the Southwest Colorado coop waits for movement with the PUC cases, though, Tri-State has given way – at least, a little bit – on the 5 percent cap. In November, the power provider announced a new program that would exempt community solar gardens from the cap.

“It’s an early outcome from our Contract Committee,” Boughey explained.

For LPEA, this could mean up to 2 megawatts of solar power added to its energy portfolio. However, under TriState’s rules for the program, the project would need to be owned and operated by the coop for its members.

It couldn’t be privately owned.

Even as Tri-State tries to make room for more renewable energy – having most recently closed its 100-megawatt, coal-fired Nucla Station in September –

it might not be enough.

Matlock said it’s not just about being carbon free – the coop’s goal is to reduce its carbon footprint by 50 percent from 2018 levels by 2030. It’s also about keeping it local.

Local control provides economic benefits for LPEA’s members, would be more adaptable to new technologies, and provide a much more resilient network.

“There are opportunities in our own service area to generate renewable energy,” she said.

From hydro-electric, solar, wind and biofuels, LPEA’s service territory could source all the energy its members need.

“It’s not clear that we would have to buy our energy from open markets,” she explained. “We just want the option to look at all opportunities for our future.” n

Wind turbines could be another option for renewable energy production within LPEA’s service territory./File photo

Taking credit: Tri-State ratings downgraded by S&P Standard & Poor’s Global Ratings, the company behind corporate and government credit ratings for more than 150 years, recently lowered Tri-State Generation and Transmission’s rating from an A to an A- and called the power provider’s outlook “negative.”

“The downgrade and negative outlook reflect regulatory filings to the Colorado Public Utilities Commission made by two of Tri-State’s member distribution cooperatives,” S&P Global Ratings credit analyst David Bodek, said in a statement. “The two cooperatives are requesting that the regulator establish just and reasonable exit fees for the applicants.”

The two cooperatives in question are La Plata Electric Association and United Power, the latter of which serves more than 250,000 members outside Denver. LPEA and United are considering a buyout of their contracts with Tri-State and have asked the state commission to intervene after the power provider enacted a moratorium on partial contract and buyout discussions.

In response, Tri-State CEO Duane Highley said in a statement, “Tri-State continues to address the items raised in the S&P report. Our membership remains unified in our direction, and Tri-State maintains a strong financial position with investment-grade ratings.”

Aside from the LPEA and United complaint, S&P Global Ratings also noted: • For more than 10 years, Tri-State has had three general managers. All of whom, “struggled to placate members.”

• Tri-State modified its loan debt in an effort to prevent rate increases and placate its members. But friction with its members still exists.

According to S&P, Tri-State’s ratings are not expected to go up within the two-year outlook horizon.

– Tracy Chamberlin

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MurderInk

Pretty little liars Gundar-Goshen proves she’s no one-hit wonder with latest, ‘The Liar’

by Jeffrey Mannix

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oincidence brought three exceptional books to view this month about the criminal repercussions of lying. We’re learning a lot about lying these days and hearing a lot of lies, but we’re not hearing a lot about the consequences of functional dishonesty, or if indeed making up the facts engenders consequences at all. Perhaps a lie can be buried under another lie, or a flurry of small deceits, and live to become an alternative truth. Consequences are the coinage of all storytelling, and crime mysteries launder the counterfeit transactions for entertainment.

The Liar is the hurry-up second book hoisted in place to ride the crest of the hugely successful debut novel Waking Lions by Israeli psychologist/playwright Ayelet Gundar-Goshen. Waking Lions was reviewed in the Telegraph last February with all the veneration I could find words for. It is one of those few books you’d risk snatching if you had to evacuate your home and seemed only to have time to grab your birth certificate and deed to the house. It won all the important awards it made deadlines for and placed GundarGoshen in the front row of world-class novelists. The question in everyone’s mind was whether Waking Lions was just a one-off burst of artistry – think Isak Dinesen’s Out of Africa, Beryl Markham’s West With the Night or Rachel Carson’s Silent Spring – or the start of something near extraordinary.

The Liar is a respectful 280 pages about an unlovely schoolgirl who works in an ice cream shop handing little spoons of tasters to eager prospectors. She’s the ice cream girl, always on time, forever fretting over her lowly position and her girth, complexion, timidity and hopelessness. She’s named Nofar; it ironically means “a flower.”

One day like any other, a man comes to the counter asking for a spoonful of one flavor after another, carping steadily about being in line and ignored for an eternity.

Nofar hadn’t even noticed him waiting, or his celebrity as a TV presenter, and Avishai Milner “ … was here, in this pathetic icecream parlor standing in front of this pathetic girl who waited to hear what flavor he wanted, and there wasn’t the slightest hint of recognition on her face. She didn’t know who he was.”

And now consequence No. 1: This aging celebrity berated the insecure teen-ager to a breaking point. She ran from the ice cream store in an existential crisis of accumulated ignominious defeat, screaming her anger over being so horribly insulted and lowly born. Avishai ran after her for his change, and consequence No. 2 was realized: Witnesses asked and heard Nofar say that yes, this man tried to sexually assault her.

All this uses up 21 pages. Nofar becomes a celebrity for being

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Ayelet Gundar-Goshen brave and virtuous, and for fending off this rapist and swaggering has-been TV personality. The story of the consequences of Nofar’s lie becomes riveting. Gundar-Goshen is an extraordinary storyteller. Keep this book with your house deed.

Now let’s turn our attention for an all-too-brief look at The Lying Room by Nicci French, released last month by William Morrow. It’s a building of unthinkable consequences resulting from a midlife fling of long-married Neve Connolly, who pays a morning-after visit to her lover Saul to find him brutally murdered. All the lies Neve has so cleverly constructed to hide her assignation turn instantly to liabilities and she wipes down every surface in their pied-àterre in a panicked attempt to erase herself completely. Here too, we’re only at the very beginning of this splendid story so expertly told.

And before we raise the ire of the Telegraph’s so very kind and skillful editor who counts words, think about Ruth Ware’s The Turn of the Key, published by the Scout Press imprint of Simon & Schuster.

Here we experience a clever one-way correspondence to a trial lawyer from a young woman in the Scottish women’s prison who has been charged with the death of an infant in her care as nanny in a house where things go bump in the night. Ware is a talent, The Turn of the Key is a fascination of wordsmithing and hard to put down.

As always, Maria’s Bookshop offers a 15 percent discount to anyone who mentions “Murder Ink” when making their purchase of books featured here. Pick up a copy of The Liar, The Lying Room or The Turn of the Key today for those liar lovers on your holiday shopping list. n

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Dec. 5, 2019 n 11

dayinthelif

Feel

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edona, Ariz., is known as a mountain ergy-vortex and psychic mecca all During a single hike on one of the m trails weaving through town, it’s not unus tourists desperately searching for the next c rip by in full-face helmets and the soothing

One of the many slender spires that abound in the Sedona area.

Even the grasshoppers are vibrantly hued

12 n

Dec. 5, 2019

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ling the pull

by Stephen Eginoire

n biking, yoga, enrolled into one. many spectacular sual to experience cairn while bikers g sounds of Native

graph

American flute drift from nearby thickets of juniper. One might even have the pleasure of meeting a real-life shaman or two (or three), all in a single mile of trail. However unlikely this juxtaposition of characters is, there’s one thing for sure: there is something magical that attracts people to this redrock wonderland. Here's a look:

Make the holiday season bright for those in need in La Plata County Select an angel or bell from the tree & return by Dec. 15th to the Durango Mall (next to JCPenney)

For more information:

projectmerrychristmas.com or 247-2944 Please mail monetary donations to:

PO Box 422, Durango, CO, 81302

Putting the pieces together is my passion.

“Merlin,” an impressive sculpture that adorns the Whole Foods parking lot.

Let me help you with the real estate puzzle.

Gillian Arnwine Rose-colored glasses are a must

Psychics are standing by.

970-749-3704 gillian@wellsgroupdurango.com

Dec. 5, 2019 n 13

thesecondsection

A debris field outside Silverton earlier this summer. Over one two-week span last March, the CAIC recorded an unprecedented 87 avalanches in the 4-5 category, with 5 being the most destructive on a scale of 1-5./ Photo by Stephen Eginoire

The perfect storm Talking with the CAIC about why last year’s avi season was so epic and if it can happen again

by Jo Ann Allen and Alison Borden Colorado Public Radio

C

olorado’s 2018 avalanche season was bad, and scientists now say it’s even worse than they thought. As this year’s snow season gets under way, Ethan Greene, director of the Colorado Avalanche Information Center, spoke to Colorado Public Radio about the historic season that was and what might be in store for Colorado this season.

CPR: Last spring there was an unusually high number of avalanches being triggered. But since then, you’ve been looking at satellite images and you’ve been on the ground in these areas. What have you found and just how unusual is it?

Ethan Greene: We had a really unusual cycle in

JusttheFacts What: Pine Needle’s 18th annual CAIC fundraiser When: 5 – 9 p.m., Thur., Dec. 5 Where: Ska Brewing, 225 Girard St. Why: Silent auction, friends, food, beer, music and winter stoke. All proceeds go to Friends of CAIC. early March last year, and at the time we knew it was a very unusual event because we were seeing really large avalanches and a large number of these really big avalanches.

Over the summer, we’ve gotten a chance to look at some other parts of Colorado, places that are a little harder to get to in the winter. And it’s really just reinforced that idea that we had a widespread avalanche

cycle that really destroyed timber and changed the nature of the terrain in some places.

CPR: And so no one has seen anything like this before?

Greene: Well, we certainly see avalanches every year in Colorado, but the number of large avalanches in a small timeframe – and really the size of some of the avalanches that we saw – is unprecedented.

One of the ways that we look at the size of avalanches, as we try to track them, is looking at the destructive force that these slides can produce. And we rank them on a scale from 1 to 5, with 1 being small and 5 being the largest. It’s pretty unusual for us to see avalanches in Colorado at that upper end of the scale.

In Colorado, we recorded 24 avalanches in that 4-5 category in the eight years previous. And then, just in this two-week period in March, we recorded 4

‘Tis the season! Join us Fri., Dec. 6, for Noel Night!

14 n Dec. 5, 2019

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87 avalanches in that size range.

CPR: Wow. Greene: Yeah, it’s impressive. And like I said, as we’ve seen more of the terrain, some of the really deep backcountry areas in Colorado over the summer, that number is growing. But we’re still sort of processing some of that information.

CPR: And there was a combination of three weather events, is that right?

Greene: Yeah, a big cycle like this really doesn’t happen from one event. And in this case, there were three events over the course of the whole winter that led up to this event in early March.

The first was early season snow. We had snow on the ground in October, really covering slopes that face every direction near and above treeline throughout Colorado. And that snow turned into a very weak layer right at the bottom of our snowpack.

And then, as the winter progressed, we had lots of snow events but not really big ones in January and February. And that built a very strong layer of snow on top of that weak layer.

And then came March, where we had lots of precipitation in a short amount of time and that just overloaded that snowpack and caused it to break. And when it did, it broke really far and wide.

CPR: It is early December, and we’ve already had a number of snowstorms. Do you think that this year will be as bad or possibly worse than last year in terms of avalanches?

Greene: We’ll have to see how the winter plays out. Certainly, the safe forecast is to say that no, it will not be like last winter or certainly not worse because that

is an extremely unusual event. But the three different periods of the winter that led to this cycle – the first one being snow in October to form a weak layer – that is exactly what we’re seeing in the mountains of Colorado right now.

CPR: What are the consequences of all the avalanches from last season? We know several people died. Are there other consequences?

Greene: Yeah, they really impacted mountain communities in Colorado. We did have a few people that died in really tragic accidents. And, we had a lot of people involved in avalanches. I think 23 people in total were involved in avalanches.

In some cases, they’re involved in avalanches that ran into occupied structures, which is pretty unusual in Colorado. We also had a pretty big impact on the state transportation system with some extended closures of mountain highways. They also affected the infrastructure throughout the mountain communities with damaged utilities – gas lines and power lines – in at least five counties.

CPR: Is this at all connected to climate change?

Greene: When you hear a lot of people talk about extreme events and climate change, you sort of get the same answer, which is, it’s really hard to connect one extreme event to climate change.

Avalanches in Colorado are really weather-driven, and so these are more sort of short-term weather effects. And as we talked about, this cycle really was the combination of a number of events over the course of the winter. So, we certainly don’t know or have direct evidence that this cycle is tied to climate change. But

Heavy machinery clears Red Mountain Pass last winter after deep slides buried the highway in several feet of debris./ Photo courtesy CDOT there is a lot of climate research that points to a changing trend in weather in the mid-latitudes and an increase in precipitation and the volume of water in some of these wet storms.

CPR: What advice would you give someone who is playing around in the snow in terms of watching out for avalanches?

Greene: The most important thing to do is to know what the current conditions are, so you can be prepared for what you’re going to see out in the mountains.

And the best way to do that is to get the

telegraph

current avalanche forecast at colorado.gov/avalanche. And a little bit of education can also be really helpful. So getting a little bit of training, whether that’s an online course or looking at some tutorials or videos online or taking an evening class or a multi-day class. And then the last thing is to make sure that everybody in your group has proper rescue equipment – that’s an avalanche transceiver, a probe pole and a shovel.

To read this story or more from Colorado Public Radio, go to www.cpr.org. n

Dec. 5, 2019 n 15

FlashinthePan

Time to get your pom on

by Ari LeVaux

East meets Asia, and where one fall day food writer Robyn Eckhardt sat down with a group of women, 100 kilos of s holiday talk builds to a festive pitch and the fresh pomegranates and some pieces of plastic pipe. They cold darkness moves to embrace you, don’t spent the day liberating the arils inside. sleep on pomegranate season. It’s on and ready Here is Eckhardt’s technique, as she recently emailed to sneak back into your life. from Italy: “Gently With a fresh pomegransqueeze one pomegranate ate in your palm, you have half, cut side down, over a magic at your fingertips. wide deep bowl to loosen Wave your hand, and food the seeds. Place it cut side becomes more beautiful, down in your nondomimore delicious and more nant hand. Spread your exciting. Toss those juicy fingers to create a ‘sieve’ rubies on salad, soup, steak, through which the seeds linguine al funghi, Brazilcan fall. With the handle ian black bean soup, graof a wooden spoon or nola and yogurt. The flavor spatula, tap the pomeadded by these fleshy seed granate all over; dislodged packages, called arils, seeds will fall, with the matches the color: sharp juices, into the bowl (the and sweet. bits of bitter white memThose arils don’t just brane will remain in your make a pizzaz-y garnish, hand). Continue tapping, they can be used as the subturning the pomegranate stance of a meal, as one in your hand, until most would use rice or pasta: a of the seeds are dislodged. plate of fried arils with eggs If any white membrane on top, for example, or a has fallen into the bowl, bowl of arils and salad. So pick it out. Strain the can a bowl of plain arils, seeds from the juice; you which looks like a bowl full can reserve the juice for of jewels and tastes like an another use.” unparalleled luxury.

The first time I tried Thus, the fall harvest is a this method, my open time to rejoice in pomehand was powerless to granate country, a wide stop the flow of arils, as if swath across the Old World a floodgate had opened. and South Asia, from the But at least I had a bowl to Black Sea to the Bay of Ben- Photo by David Hagerman catch them. gal. In ancient orchards, That day, Eckhardt and the bright red orbs dangle brightly from these sacred trees her friends were preparing nar eksisi, or Turkish pomelike Christmas tree ornaments. granate molasses. When made with 100 percent pomeTo the uninitiated, it won’t be obvious how to extract granate juice and no additives, she says, it has as the arils. Indeed there are many ways, and some are delicate and eye-opening a flavor as a fine balsamic. messier than others. Treating those globes like softballAmong brands that an American could easily order onsized pinatas might not seem like the cleanest option, but line, Eckhardt’s favorite is Mymoune, produced by a it turns out if you slice them in half and tap gently women’s agricultural cooperative in Lebanon, followed enough, the seeds rush out like Black Friday shoppers

by Cortas. storming the gates of Walmart.

Pure pomegranate syrup is worth paying good money The technique comes from Turkey, where the Middle for, she says. It keeps forever and is versatile far beyond

A

1480 E. 2nd Ave. & 15th St. • 970-764-4577 www.jimmysmusic.supply 16 n Dec. 5, 2019

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salad dressings: as a chicken wing glaze, a mixer, a sweetener for your morning oatmeal. If you can’t get the good stuff, you might want to skip it.

There is a recipe in Eckhardt’s book, Istanbul & Beyond: Exploring the Diverse Cuisines of Turkey, that calls for both the arils and the syrup. Sun Dried Tomato and Pomegranate Salad comes from a restaurant in Antakya owned by her friend Shiraz Demir, a pomegranate and olive farmer.

“The dish perfectly embodies (Antakya’s) location, with the Mediterranean climate represented in the tomatoes, olive oil and pomegranate, and the Levantine (western Asian) influences in the fresh herbs and chilies. It would usually be served as part of a meze spread or for breakfast with other dishes.”

The salad is an exciting ride, with many strong personalities balancing one another in spectacular fashion. Each bite is a different little drama, with spice, fat, herbs and salty chunks of cheese, all splashed with tangy pomegranate juice. It will brighten any table, any time of year.

Eckhardt lays out this salad in a layered, eye-catching way, as it would appear as part of a spread. For simplicity, I prefer to mix the ingredients in a bowl. She was gracious enough to let me make a few minor tweaks, which I’ve made as parenthetical suggestions. The salad is forgiving, and you can alter the proportions widely to suit your taste.

Sun Dried Tomato and Pomegranate Salad Serves 6 - 8 as a meze or 4 as a side dish 20 sun-dried tomatoes 1 medium pomegranate, cut in half horizontally 1 hot green chile, such as jalapeño, sliced (in winter I prefer chili flakes, such as Aleppo) ¼ cup fresh mint or flat-leaf parsley, or a combination, chopped finely ¼ cup crumbled lightly salty white cheese, such as Bulgarian feta ¼ cup fruity olive oil 1 tablespoon pomegranate molasses (if you can get the pure stuff. Otherwise use lemon juice) Soak the sun-dried tomatoes in warm water until soft and pliable, 10 to 20 minutes. While the tomatoes are soaking, seed the pomegranate. Drain the sun-dried tomatoes and pat dry, then slice (or cut with kitchen scissors) into ¼-inch-wide strips.

Arrange the tomato strips on a small plate and top with pepper slices (or chili flakes), and sprinkle with the mint or parsley, and then the cheese and pomegranate seeds. Drizzle olive oil and pomegranate molasses on top and serve immediately. n

TopShelf

White buffaloes, tough cookies & county mounties

by Chris Aaland

River Brewery at 8 p.m. Friday when J.P. Harris & the Tough Choices come to town. A native of Montgomery, Ala., Harris fany annual Thanksgiving trip to Kansas didn’t go as cies himself more of a carpenter who writes songs than a musiplanned this year, mainly due to the pair of storms that cian, although you couldn’t tell by listening to any of his ripped through the Midwest last week. While the critically acclaimed records. Like one of his Alabama musical foreamount of snow wasn’t overbearing by mountain standards, the fathers, Hank Williams, Harris writes gritty songs about love lost, tiny amounts turned Kansas dirt roads into mud pits. Travel was life on the road and hard living. In “JP’s Florida Blues #1” he restricted to paved and major snorts his way across the Sungravel roads. That kept us out shine State. “Two for the Road” of much of the private land paints the picture of a lover we’d obtained permission to drowning his sorrows. “Gear hunt. For the first time in Jammin’ Daddy” is an ode to decades, I didn’t bag a single truckers. Along the way, he’s rebird and only had two shootleased a couple of “Why Don’t ing opportunities on quail.

We Duet in the Road” EPs feaOur return was delayed a turing duets with up-and-comday thanks to Winter Storm ing women singers like Nikki Dorothy, which might as well Lane and Elizabeth Cook, plus have stranded us in Oz. When an old-timey banjo/fiddle Otto and I checked out of the album with Chance McCoy of motel the day before ThanksOld Crow Medicine Show called giving, a 10-hour return trip to “Two Bad Hombres.”

Durango took 14. The first 60SoDown brings his bass mile stretch took two hours as music with soul to the Animas we were forced to travel at 35 City Theatre at 8:30 p.m.

MPH in four-wheel drive over tonight (Thurs., Dec. 5). Ehren ice. I only accelerated to pass River Right, aka SoDown, is a three other vehicles, choosing staple in the Colorado music to keep it well below the speed scene. Featuring a live saxolimit. Still, a Colorado trooper phone, SoDown takes the nabbed me for going a reported crowd on an intimate sensory 76 in a 65 outside of Eads. I adventure through space and passed one other car in the time.

Genre-defying artist The White Buffalo brings his dark alt-counstretch, a hybrid that was Christmas means holiday try to the Animas City Theatre on Friday. Doors open at 8 p.m. concerts, and the Community doing 58. When I glanced at my speedometer, I was at 69 Concert Hall is home base to during the pass. A second vehicle zoomed by both of us, and he several. The FLC bands and choirs host their Colors of the Seawas certainly doing 76 or more. An officer traveling the other son at 7 p.m. Friday, performing “Aurora Borealis” and other way did a U-turn and pulled us both over. When he was done works. The four choirs will tackle a variety of holiday tunes on a tossing a $182.50 citation through my window at me, he immestage festooned with stockings decorated by the choir students. diately sped off the shoulder with lights flashing to nab his next Then at 3 p.m. Sunday, Durango Choral Society presents “Viva victim. We saw no fewer than six troopers and county mounties Snow! A Traditional Family Christmas.” Their annual gift in the final 3 miles leading into Eads. Happy holidays, y’all. to the community features your family, friends and neighbors in My court date is set for early February in Eads, unfortunately all four DCS ensembles. It’s a mix of jazzy, classy and cool music six days after the Colorado pheasant and quail season ends. It’s that will put you in a mood for a holiday party. too bad – I could parlay a trip to fight the ticket into one more Seasons Rotisserie & Grill hosts its 25th anniversary celebrahunting trek. A friend teaches in nearby Sheridan Lake and tion from 6-9 p.m. Tuesday, with proceeds benefitting the knows dozens of farmers who would let us on their land for a Women’s Resource Center. A $40 minimum donation is relate-season trek. quested. The menu includes samples off the latest seasonal menu, So I’ll begrudgingly send a check for the full amount this plus traditional holiday fare and fine wines. A cash bar will also week, reducing my points from four to two. I’ll bid adieu to the be available. No reservations are necessary.

Heartland for another year, happy to be safe at home with my The Raven Narratives live storytelling slams (all-audience, fellow mountain hippies. off-the-cuff, true stories) will feature the theme “home” at 7:30 One of the most intriguing concerts to come to town in recent p.m. Friday at the Sunflower Theatre in Cortez and 7:30 p.m. Satmemory is Friday’s show by The White Buffalo at the Animas urday at the Durango Arts Center. “This is a particularly potent City Theatre. Led by big-voiced frontman Jake Smith, The White topic, especially for this time of year, and we expect to have a Buffalo is difficult to categorize. There are elements of alt-counfull-bodied evening of true stories shared, ranging from personal try, indie-rock and even roadhouse rock in the music. Raised on to humorous and wacky,” Ravens Narratives co-producer Sarah the country twang of George Jones and the pissed-off punk of Syverson said. “It’s an evening of connection, laughter and deep Bad Religion, Smith’s songs – particularly on his latest album listening.”

“Darkest Darks, Lightest Lights” – are a vehicle for gloomy and Southwest Colorado Gives Day takes place all day long on dangerous characters with stories about sinners, crooks, bad deciTuesday, benefitting dozens of local nonprofits in the arts, educasions and broken hearts. Critics have pointed to Bruce Springtion, environmental and social sectors. Visit steen’s darkest material for comparisons. Doors open at 8 p.m. coloradogives.org/SouthwestColoradoGives and choose which with opening act L.A. Edwards taking the stage at 9. Edwards is nonprofits you’d like to support. There are one-time and another singer/songwriter whose debut record was produced by monthly payment options available.

Tom Petty & the Heartbreakers bassist Ron Blair.

There is a Barbie doll in a gravy boat? Email me at chrisa@gobrain One of my favorite alt-country acts returns to the Dolores storm.net. n

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Thursday05

Friday06

Baby Meetup with Durango Café au Play, 9:30-11:30 a.m., Dec. 5, 2307 Columbine. 749-9607.

Noel Night, all day, featuring specials, prizes, live music, libations and more, downtown Durango. www.downtowndurango.org.

National Popular Vote Town Hall, sponsored by the La Plata County League of Women Voters, 11:30 a.m.1 p.m., Durango Public Library. www.lwvlaplata.org.

Thursday Afternoon Social Club for veterans, their spouses and supporters, 4-6 p.m., VFW, 1550 Main Ave. Writers’ Workshop, 5 p.m., Ignacio Library.

4th annual Winter Art Show by the Looking Glass Art Collective, benefit for Local First, opening reception, 5-7 p.m., exhibit runs thru Jan. 30, Smiley Café, 1309 E. 3rd Ave. The Assortment performs, 5-8 p.m., Ska Brewing, 225 Girard St. Pine Needle’s 18th annual CAIC Fundraiser, all proceeds donated to Friends of Colorado Avalanche Information Center, 5-9 p.m., Ska Brewing, 225 Girard St.

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

Tim Sullivan performs, 5:30 p.m., Diamond Belle Saloon, 699 Main Ave. Sitting Meditation, 5:30-6:15 p.m., Durango Dharma Center, 1800 E. 3rd Ave. Jose Villarreal performs, 6 p.m., The Office, 699 Main Ave. Open Mic Night, 6-8 p.m., Eno Wine Bar, 723 E. 2nd Ave. Animas Jazz Trio with Tayler Smith, 6-9 p.m., Jean-Pierre Restaurant & Wine Bar, 601 Main Ave. Powerhouse Trivia Night, 6:30 p.m., Powerhouse Science Center, 1333 Camino del Rio. www.powsci.org.

“The Thin Man” screening, 7 p.m., Sunflower Theatre in Cortez. www.sunflowertheatre.org.

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

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

Free yoga, 8:30-9:30 a.m., Lively Boutique, 809 Main Ave. Zumba Gold, 9:30-10:15 a.m., La Plata Senior Center, 2424 Main Ave. 16th annual Festival of Trees, holiday tradition benefitting children and adults with intellectual and developmental disabilities, noon-5 p.m., event also runs Dec. 7-8, Durango & Silverton Narrow Gauge Railroad Grange Hall. communityconnectionsco.org.

Blood Drive, 1:30-6 p.m., Mercy Regional Medical Center, Conference Room A, 1010 Three Springs Blvd.

764-1170.

45th annual Holiday Arts & Crafts Festival, featuring more than 100 vendors from around the Four Corners, 2-7 p.m., event also runs 9 a.m.-5 p.m., Dec. 7, and 10 a.m.-2 p.m., Dec. 8, La Plata County Fairgrounds Exhibit Hall.

STEAM Lab: LEGO Club, 3:30-4:30 p.m., Durango Public Library.

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

Holiday Book Drive, 4:30 p.m., Maria’s Bookshop, 960 Main Ave. Old Fashioned Christmas Bazaar, featuring local artists, handmade goods and more, 5-7 p.m., bazaar also runs 9 a.m.-3 p.m., Dec. 7, Animas Museum, 3065 W. 2nd Ave. www.animasmuseum.org.

Karaoke, 8 p.m., Wild Horse Saloon, 601 E. 2nd Ave.

Ye Olde Fashioned Christmas event, featuring Rudolph Run, carolers, gallery walk, Winter Holiday Popup Market, Santa and Mrs. Claus, and more, hosted by Mancos Creative District, 5-7 p.m., event also runs 10 a.m.-4 p.m., Dec. 14, downtown Mancos. 946-6507 and www.mancoscreativedistrict.com.

SoDown performs with special guests, 9:30 p.m., Animas City Theatre, 128 E. College Drive. www.animascitytheatre.com.

Photographer Tony Stromberg, artist reception 59 p.m., show runs thru Dec. 31, Sorrel Sky Gallery, 828 Main Ave. www.sorrelsky.com.

Plursday featuring DJ Hakan, 9 p.m., Starlight Lounge, 937 Main Ave.

Terry Rickard performs, 5:30 p.m., Diamond Belle Saloon, 699 Main Ave.

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

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Dustin Burley performs, 6 p.m., The Office, 699 Main Ave. Noel Night Before Christmas, presented by Alpine Acrobatics and The Salida Circus, 6 p.m., Powerhouse Science Center, 1333 Camino del Rio. www.powsci.org.

Noel Night at the Rochester, featuring local artisans and specialty drinks, 6-8 p.m., Rochester Hotel and R Space, 726 E. 2nd Ave. 385-1920.

Loki Moon, 6-8 p.m., Durango Coffee Co. Aikido: The Art of Peace, 6-8 p.m., Mountain Middle School, 108 W 31st St. www.durangoaikido.com.

Live music, 6-9 p.m., DJ Hakan 9 p.m.-close, Starlight Lounge, 937 Main Ave. Gary B. Walker performs, 6:30-8 p.m., Jean-Pierre Restaurant & Wine Bar, 601 Main Ave. Jackson Ohle performs, 6:30-8:30 p.m., Hermosa Coffee Roasters, 738 Main Ave. Colors of the Season, FLC Music Department’s holiday concert, 7 p.m., Community Concert Hall at Fort Lewis College. www.durangoconcerts.com.

“Twas the Week After Christmas” and “Oliver,” opening night, 7 p.m., 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.

Ecstatic Dance with DJ/Producer Raashan Ahmad, 7-10 p.m., VFW, 1550 Main Ave. Karaoke, 7 p.m.-close, VFW, 1550 Main Ave. The Raven Narratives: Live Storytelling, featuring the theme “Home,” 7:30 p.m., Sunflower Theatre in Cortez. ravennarratives.org.

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

The White Buffalo performs, with special guest L.A. Edwards, 9 p.m., Animas City Theatre, 128 E. College Drive. www.animascitytheatre.com.

Saturday07 Breakfast with Santa, featuring visit from Santa Claus, blanket drive for Project Merry Christmas and4

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91.9 93.9

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more, 8-10 a.m., McDonald’s, 201 W. College Dr.

‘Tis the season to buy local: Noel Night returns Friday

St. Columba Christmas Bazaar, featuring local craftsmen, artisans and more, 8 a.m., St. Columba, 1801 E. 3rd Ave.

What: Noel Night 2019 When: Fri., Dec. 6 Where: Downtown Durango

Durango’s Original Christmas Bazaar, featuring holiday shopping, homemade cinnamon rolls and more, 8 a.m.3 p.m., St. Mark’s Church, 910 E. 3rd Ave.

It’s time to put down the mouse and step away from the clickbait. Durango’s homespun antidote to Cyber Monday, Noel Night, returns this Friday for another fun-filled stroll through downtown. Local businesses will be keeping their doors open late and bedazzling their windows to entice shoppers with special deals, live music, entertainment, pictures with Santa, and holiday treats for kids and adults alike.

Sponsored by Local First, the annual celebration of keeping your dollars at home started in 2002 as a response to the Missionary Ridge Fire and the impact it had on local, independent businesses. It has since grown to become a favorite local holiday tradition that brings neighbors, friends and acquaintances old and new together for socializing, merriment and, of course, checking those names off

Drop-in Tennis, 9 a.m., Durango High School, 2390 Main Ave. Henry Stoy, 10 a.m.-1 p.m., Jean-Pierre Restaurant & Wine Bar, 601 Main Ave. The Dolores River Brewery Holiday Arts and Crafts Show, featuring pottery, arts, live music and more, 10 a.m.3 p.m., Dolores River Brewery.

VFW Indoor Flea Market, 10 a.m.-4 p.m., 1550 Main Ave. NTLive: Fleabag, 11 a.m., show also runs 1 p.m., Dec. 8, Animas City Theatre, 128 E. College Dr. Snowdown Follies Chorus Line Auditions, 12:30-5 p.m., Smiley Building Studio, 1309 E. 3rd Ave. www.snow downfollies.org.

Adam Swanson performs, 5:30 p.m., Diamond Belle Saloon, 699 Main Ave. Robby Overfield performs, 6 p.m., The Office, 699 Main Ave. Jeff Solon performs, 6-10 p.m., Seven Rivers Restaurant at Sky Ute Casino Resort in Ignacio.

Billy Novak and Friends perform, 6:30-8:30 p.m., Hermosa Coffee Roasters, 738 Main Ave. The Raven Narratives: Live Storytelling, featuring the theme, “Home,” 7:30 p.m., Durango Arts Center, 802 E. 2nd Ave. ravennarratives.org.

DJ Side Affex, 9 p.m.-close, Starlight Lounge, 937 Main Ave.

Sunday08 Durango Flea Market, 8:30 a.m., La Plata County Fairgrounds.

The Christmas Tree Train, train departs, 9:30 a.m., Durango & Silverton Narrow Gauge Railroad, .

Traditional Irish Music Jam, 12:30-4 p.m., Irish Embassy, 900 Main Ave. Viva Snow! A Traditional Family Christmas, presented by the Durango Choral Society, 3 p.m., Community Concert Hall at Fort Lewis College. www.durangoconcerts.com.

Blue Moon Ramblers, 5:30 p.m., Diamond Belle Saloon, 699 Main Ave. “White Christmas” sing-along, part of the Free Classic Film Series, 6 p.m., Animas City Theatre, 128 E. College Drive. www.animascitytheatre.com.

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.

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loon, 699 Main Ave. Rob Webster performs, 6 p.m., The Office, 699 Main Ave. Trivia Night, 7 p.m., Blondies in Cortez.

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

Tuesday10 Zumba Gold, 9:30-10:15 a.m., La Plata Senior Center, 2424 Main Ave. 5th Anniversary Celebration of the Professional Women’s Network, 5 p.m., The Underground, downstairs at the Irish Embassy, 900 Main Ave. info@pwndurango.com.

Terry Rickard performs, 5:30 p.m., Diamond Belle Saloon, 699 Main Ave.

Monday09 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.

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

your holiday shopping list.

But above all, shopping local on Noel Night will offer those warm fuzzies that come from keeping Durango’s unique character and helping independent mom and pops survive and thrive. According to Local First, shopping locally creates 57 jobs per $10M spent, more than four times the jobs created from buying on Amazon. In addition, $48 of every $100 spent locally stays in the community vs. $14 spent online.

And speaking of Local First, why not kick off the giving season a night early when the Looking Glass Collective opens its annual winter show at the Smiley Café, from 5 – 7 p.m. Thurs., Dec. 5. Made up of 16 local women artists, the collective will donate 30 percent of proceeds to Local First’s Creative District initiative.

For more info on these events, go to www.local-first.org or visit Local First on the FB.

Tim Sullivan performs, 6 p.m., The Office, 699 Main Ave. Adult Board Game Night, 3:30-4:30 p.m., Durango Public Library.

More “On the Town” p. 234

Joel Racheff performs, 5:30 p.m., Diamond Belle Sa-

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AskRachel Interesting fact: The German dub of “Die Hard” gave the German terrorists English names. No one wants to think they’re the bad guy, huh?

Dear Rachael, It all makes sense now. I thought you must be really ugly or something (can you say that these days?), since you’d never show us a real photo of yourself. When I realized you really are the Rachael of Central Perk come to life in the real world (is Durango the real world?), sort of like Pinocchio (in more ways than one) all the pieces fell into place. I’d never realized before that a sitcom character could actually exist in real life too … so much to learn. So glad you‘re with us Rachael. Can I make you dinner sometime?

– Sooooo Grateful Dear Apropos of Nothing, There’s only one parenthetical that I can’t go to sleep until I address: I’m like Pinocchio in more ways than one? Name even just one way I’m like Pinocchio. I’m not a puppet, nor am I made of wood. Geppetto is not my master. My nose isn’t what grows when I lie. I definitely don’t dream of becoming a real boy. Sure, you can call someone ugly these days (especially if yo momma didn’t raise you right), but calling someone a fictional marionette is just low.

-– It’s Rachel, not Rachael, Rachel

Dear Rachel, I’m fascinated by the relative costs of things in our minds. I know people who don’t balk at

OntheTown from p. 19

Season’s 25th Anniversary Community Event, benefit for Women’s Resource Center, 6-9 p.m., Seasons Rotisserie & Grill, 764 Main Ave.

Trivia Factory, hosted by Ben Bernstein, 6:30-8:30 p.m., The Roost, 128 E. College Dr.

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

dropping $12 to go see a two-hour movie, but won’t pay $15 for a paperback book. They’ll spend $7 on a latte but hate that NPR asks for pledges. $35,000 for a car, but gripe about spending $20,000 on four years of in-state college.

Why can’t our brains make meaningful comparisons about worth?

-– The Price is Wrong Dear Not Drew Carey, What really grinds my gears is that colleges have to ask their alumni for money all the time. I understand they NEED the money, but I don’t understand why they think I should be a continued source of revenue. They already got my $20,000 and then some. I got my degree.

That was the end of our agreed-upon professional relationship. What I’m saying is, I don’t give my orthodontist extra money decades after getting my braces off.

Which is so not what you asked about.

-– Oh well, Rachel Email Rachel at telegraph@durangotelegraph.com Dear Rachel, It seems this question has raged for years now, and I’ve yet to hear a conclusive answer. Is “Die Hard” a Christmas movie? On the one hand, it’s set at Christmastime. On the other, it’s primarily about terrorists and Bruce Willis’ biceps. I won’t tell you which side I fall on, so as not to sway you. But whichever you say, I will now defer to your answer in perpetuity.

-– Die Hard Fan

Dear Live Hard, You’re damn right “Die Hard” is a Christmas flick. The villain is Hans Gruber, right? And Silent Night, the most Christmasest of Christmas songs, was composed by Franz Xaver Gruber. Hans Gruber. Franz Gruber. This ain’t no coincidence. “Die Hard” is here to pump *clap* you up this holiday season. Angels aren’t getting their wings or nothing, but watching this movie sure beats talking to Geppetto and the rest of the family every year.

– Yippee-ki-yay, Rachel

Theodore Roosevelt in the American West with Andrew Gulliford, 6-8 p.m., Durango Public Library.

Upcoming

Pub Quiz, 6:30 p.m., Irish Embassy Pub, 900 Main Ave. 403-1200.

Moscow Ballet’s Great Russian Nutcracker, 7 p.m., Farmington Civic Center. 505-599-1148 or www.fmtn.org/CivicCenter.

Open Mic Night, 7:30 p.m., The Roost, 128 E. College Dr. Karaoke, 8 p.m., Blondies in Cortez.

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.

Wednesday11

Fired Up Stories! join firefighters and EMTs for stories and safety tips, 10:30-11:15 a.m., Durango Public Library.

Holiday Open House at April’s Garden, featuring local artisans, drinks, appetizers and more, 4-8 p.m., April’s Garden, 2075 Main Ave. 247-1633.

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

Free Legal Clinic, 4-5 p.m., Dec. 13, Ignacio Community Library. 563-9287.

“The Phantom Tollbooth,” presented by St. Columba Middle School, opening night, 7 p.m., Dec. 13, performance also runs 1 and 7 p.m., Dec. 14, St. Columba School, 1801 E. 3rd Ave. www.stcolumbaschooldurango.org.

“My Beloved West,” solarplate prints by Louise Grunewald, exhibit runs thru Dec. 21, Art Library upstairs at Durango Arts Center, 802 E. 2nd Ave. www.durangoarts.org.

Senior Communication Design Exhibition: “We are designers: it’s in our bleed,” show runs thru Dec. 21, Art & Design Gallery at Fort Lewis College. 247-7167.

Durango Nordic Center’s Coke Race #1, 9 a.m.noon, Dec. 14, Durango Nordic Center, 49786 Highway 550 North. www.durangonordic.org.

Winter Solstice Market, featuring works from 30 regional artists, thru Dec. 23, Durango Arts Center, 802 E. 2nd Ave. www.durangoarts.org.

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

The Polar Express, thru Jan. 2, Durango & Silverton Narrow Gauge Railroad. www.durangotrain.com.

Terry Rickard performs, 6 p.m., The Office, 699 Main Ave.

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

20 n Dec. 5, 2019

6th annual Bizarre Bazaar, 5 p.m., Dec. 13, bazaar also runs 10 a.m.-6 p.m., Dec. 14, and 10 a.m.-3 p.m., Dec. 15, Studio &, 1027 Main Ave. anddurango.com.

“The Nutcracker,” performed by the State Street Ballet of Santa Barbara, opening night, 7:30 p.m., Dec. 13, ballet also runs 2 and 7 p.m., Dec. 14, and 2 p.m., Dec. 15, Community Concert Hall at Fort Lewis College. www.durango concerts.com.

Ongoing

Donny Johnson performs, 5:30 p.m., Diamond Belle Saloon, 699 Main Ave.

Loki Moon – Raw Experiments, 6-8 p.m., Eno Wine Bar, 723 E. 2nd Ave.

Holiday Open House and Luminaria Display, 5-9 p.m., Dec. 12, Mesa Verde National Park. www.nps.gov/meve.

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

telegraph

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): In composing this oracle, I have called on the unruly wisdom of Vivienne Westwood.

She’s the fashion designer who incorporated the punk esthetic into mainstream styles. Here are four quotes by her that will be especially suitable for your use in the coming weeks. 1. “I disagree with everything I used to say.” 2. “The only possible effect one can have on the world is through unpopular ideas.” 3. “Intelligence is composed mostly of imagination, insight and things that have nothing to do with reason.” 4. “I’m attracted to people who are really true to themselves and who are always trying to do something that makes their life more interesting.”

TAURUS (April 20-May 20): “I’m drowning in the things I never told you.” Famous makeup artist Alexandra Joseph wrote that message to a companion with whom she had a complicated relationship. Are you experiencing a similar sensation, Taurus? If so, I invite you to do something about it! The coming weeks will be a good time to stop drowning. One option is to blurt out to your ally all the feelings and thoughts you’ve been withholding and hiding. A second option is to divulge just some of the feelings and thoughts you’ve been withholding and hiding – and then monitor the results of your partial revelation. A third option is to analyze why you’ve been withholding and hiding. Is it because your ally hasn’t been receptive, or because you’re afraid of being honest?

Here’s what I suggest: Start with the third option, then move on to the second.

GEMINI (May 21-June 20): I’ve got some borderline sentimental poetry to offer you in this horoscope. It may be too mushy for a mentally crisp person like you. You may worry that I’ve fallen under the sway of sappy versions of love rather than the snappy versions I usually favor. But there is a method in my madness: I suspect you need an emotionally suggestive nudge to fully activate your urge to merge; you require a jolt of sweetness to inspire you to go in quest of the love mojo that’s potentially available to you in abundance. So please allow your heart to be moved by the following passage from poet Rabindranath Tagore: “My soul is alight with your infinitude of stars.

Your world has broken upon me like a flood. The flowers of your garden blossom in my body.”

CANCER (June 21-July 22): Try saying this and notice how it feels: “For the next 17 days, I will make ingenious efforts to interpret my problems as interesting opportunities that offer me the chance to liberate myself from my suffering and transform myself into the person I aspire to become.” Now speak the following

words and see what thoughts and sensations get triggered: “For the next 17 days, I will have fun imagining that my so-called flaws are signs of potential strengths and talents that I have not yet developed.”

LEO (July 23-Aug. 22): An interviewer asked singer-songwriter Leonard Cohen if he needed to feel bothered and agitated in order to stimulate his creativity. Cohen said no. “When I get up in the morning,” he testified, “my real concern is to discover whether I’m in a state of grace.” Surprised, the interviewer asked, “What do you mean by a state of grace?” Cohen described it as a knack for balance that he called on to ride the chaos around him. He knew he couldn’t fix or banish the chaos – and it would be arrogant to try. His state of grace was more like skiing skillfully down a hill, gliding along the contours of unpredictable terrain. I’m telling you about Cohen’s definition, Leo, because I think that’s the state of grace you should cultivate right now. I bet it will stimulate your creativity in ways that surprise and delight you.

VIRGO (Aug. 23-Sept. 22): Poet Juan Felipe Herrera praises the value of making regular efforts to detox our cluttered minds. He says that one of the best methods for accomplishing this cleansing is to daydream. You give yourself permission to indulge in uncensored, unabashed fantasies. You feel no inhibition about envisioning scenes that you may or may not ever carry out in real life.

You understand that this free-form play of images is a healing joy, a gift you give yourself. It’s a crafty strategy to make sure you’re not hiding any secrets from yourself. Now is a favorable time to practice this art, Virgo.

LIBRA (Sept. 23-Oct. 22): In accordance with current astrological omens, here’s your meditation, as articulated by the blogger named Riverselkie: “Let your life be guided by the things that produce the purest secret happiness, with no thought to what that may look like from the outside. Feed the absurd whims of your soul and create with no audience in mind but yourself. What is poignant to you is what others will be moved by, too.

Embrace what you love about yourself and the right people will come.”

SCORPIO (Oct. 23-Nov. 21): “I swear I became a saint from waiting,” Scorpio poet Odysseus Elytis wrote in his poem “Three Times the Truth.” According to my reading of the astrological omens, you may be in a similar situation. And you’ll be wise to welcome the break in the action and abide calmly in the motionless lull. You’ll experiment with the hypothesis that temporary postponement is best not just for you, but for all concerned.

SAGITTARIUS (Nov. 22Dec. 21): “My greatest asset is that I am constantly changing,” Sagittarian actress and activist Jane Fonda said.

This description may not always be applicable to you, but I think it should be during the coming weeks. You’re primed to thrive on a robust commitment to selftransformation. As you proceed in your holy task, keep in mind this other advice from Fonda. 1. “One part of wisdom is knowing what you don’t need anymore and letting it go.” 2. “It is never too late to master your weaknesses.” 3. “If you allow yourself, you can become stronger in the very places that you’ve been broken.” 4. “The challenge is not to be perfect. It’s to be whole.” P.S. And what does it mean to be whole? Be respectful toward all your multiple facets and welcome them into the conversation you have about how to live.

CAPRICORN (Dec. 22-Jan. 19): You can’t escape your past completely. You can’t loosen its hold on you so thoroughly that it will forever allow you to move with limitless freedom into the future. But you definitely have the power to release yourself from at least a part of your past’s grip.

And the coming weeks will be an excellent time to do just that: to pay off a portion of your karmic debt and shed worn-out emotional baggage.

AQUARIUS (Jan. 20-Feb. 18): Aquarian playwright August Strindberg didn’t have much interest in people who “regurgitate what they have learned from books.” He was bored by stories that have been told over and over again; was impatient with propaganda disguised as information and by sentimental platitudes masquerading as sage insights. He craved to hear about the unprecedented secrets of each person’s life: the things they know and feel that no one else knows and feels. He was a student of “the natural history of the human heart.” I bring Strindberg’s perspective to your attention, my dear oneof-a-kind Aquarius, because now is a perfect time for you to fully embody it.

PISCES (Feb. 19-March 20): “It’s no fun being in love with a shadow,” Piscean poet Edna St. Vincent Millay wrote. And yet she indulged profusely in that no-fun activity and even capitalized on it to create a number of decent, if morose, poems. But in alignment with your astrological omens, Pisces, I’m going to encourage you to fall out of love with shadows. The coming weeks will be an excellent time to channel your passions into solid realities: to focus your ardor and adoration on earthly pleasures and practical concerns and imperfect but interesting people.

telegraph

Dec. 5, 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

media, and business consulting experience. I can help you take your project to the next level. Available full/part time.

Email Ursula at squire.ua@gmail.com Got Radon?

Call or text 970-394-4071 to schedule a test today.

Fall Cleanse Special Tis the season! 15% off colonic and ozone steam sauna sessions. 5 day guided, food based detox. Learn more. riversendwellness.com call Colleen 970903-8439 Give the Gift of Music Lessons Gift certificates for guitar, bass, and voice lessons with Pete Giuliani. Call 970385-6713 or email info@petegiuliani.com

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.

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.

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

Shopping, errands, repairs etc. Fair prices. Kim & David Librande 36du rango@gmail.com 970-259-9286 Lowest Prices on Storage!

Inside/outside near Durango and Bayfield, RJ Mini Storage. 970-259-3494 Harmony Organizing and Cleaning Services Home and office 970-403-6192 Marketing Small and Local Businesses Media, social media, website content, SEO, etc. for small, local, independent or startup businesses. Email jnderge@ gmail.com

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

BodyWork Holiday Gift Certificates Back in Balance Massage, LLC. Holiday prices $45/hr, reg. $65/hr, purchase by 12/16. Text 970-442-0007 Holiday Massage Gift Certificates Meg Bush, LMT 970-759-0199 massageintervention.life Voted best massage in Durango 201819. Couples, cupping, local CBD. Reviews on FB + Yelp. 970-903-2984 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.

ForSale Red Cliffs Pottery Holiday Sale Local handmade pottery, lg selection!

Come see us at 1375 Florida Rd. Wed-Sat, 9-5. Call 970-764-8229.

String Instruments 1/2” violin $200 (RV 400+) / 14” viola $300 (RV 625) 970-764-5799

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

Reruns Home Furnishings Cozy furnishing! Chinese cabinet, lamps, rugs, art, night stands. Lots of beautiful glassware and linens. Cool vintage dishes – Pyrex & Fiestaware. New great stuff and daily markdowns. 572 E. 6th Ave. 385-7336.

Wanted

HelpWanted

RealEstate

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

FLC Office Manager - Mental Health Fort Lewis College is seeking applications for our Counseling Center Office Manager. For detailed job information and qualifications, competencies and online application process please visit www.fortlewis.edu/jobs and go to the Employment Opportunities page, exempt listings and click on the job link. FLC is an AA/EEO employer.

Services Editing, Marketing, Consulting Young professional with 6+ years of editing, proofing, marketing, social

22 n Dec. 5, 2019

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Radon Services Free radon testing and consultation.

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

ForRent Room for 1 Male Tenant in shared nice in-town home. No

HaikuMovieReview ‘A Beautiful Day in the Neighborhood’ Good, but I wanted a film about Fred Rogers’ life not Lloyd Vogel’s – Lainie Maxson smokers, pets, drugs, parties. $550/mo, incl. utilities + dep. Avail 1/1/20. 970759-0551

CommunityService Christmas Trees for Conservation Sale Do you need a Christmas tree? Holiday wreath? The San Juan Mountains Association is again selling local trees cut from areas in need of thinning, in cooperation with the San Juan National Forest.

Selection includes white and balsam fir trees. Proceeds benefit SJMA. Sunday-Friday, noon-6 p.m. and Saturdays, 9 a.m.-6 p.m., Durango & Silverton Narrow Gauge Railroad parking lot (corner of College and Camino Del Rio) thru Dec. 22.

Teens Holiday Gift Drive During the holidays, teen-agers are often forgotten in toy drives. This drive is to share the spirit of giving with local teens in need. Asking for items that include winter necessities, fun gifts and gift cards. Cash donations will also be accepted and used to purchase needed gifts.

Contact Kim at kchism@frontrangeclinic.com to make a cash donation. Drop off locations include R1 Colorado Durango office, 10211½ Main Ave.; Front Range Clinic, 1485 Florida Road, Building C, #203; and The Wells Group, 1130 Main Ave. Suggested gifts include: sports equipment, books, art supplies, headphones, prepaid phone, jackets, backpacks, hair products, board games, gift cards, movie passes, and more. Drive runs through Dec. 15.

Colorado Gives Day – Dec. 10 is an easy opportunity for donors to contribute online to nonprofits across Colorado. The Community Foundation serving Southwest Colorado hosts a regional platform through Colorado Gives, which features more than 70 nonprofits from across the region, including nearly 50 nonprofits in La Plata County. Donors can visit

www.swcogives.org to schedule a donation or call 970-375-5807 for more info.

The Free Bag, Bag Free Project Needs old t-shirts to turn into reusable shopping bags. If you have some, please contact columbine.sb@gmail.com.

La Plata Thrive!

Living Wage Coalition is seeking steering committee members!

Are you passionate about social justice? Do you have a knack for nonprofit organizing?

Apply today at thrivelaplata@gmail.com or visit thrivelaplata.org!

The Snowdown Follies Mail-In Ticket Drawing Takes place Dec. 7. Mail-in order forms may be found at snowdownfollies.org. You may only be drawn once; however, you may submit as many forms as you desire.

The name submitted on the form must be a live, adult human, 18 years of age or older. The maximum number of tickets per person is limited to four (12 per household). Follies Tickets are $20/each and must be paid by original check or money order.

Photo copies of checks, cash or credit cards will not be accepted. Ticket order forms must be received at P.O. Box 2342, Durango, CO, 81302 by 9 a.m. Sat., Dec. 7.

Community Compassion Outreach invites the public to attend an outdoor Christmas celebration and special feast from 12:30-2:30 p.m., Sat., Dec. 21, at

Schneider Park with Durango citizens who are experiencing homelessness and food insecurity. Attendees are invited to bring a favorite dish to share. Volunteer drivers are also needed to help transport guests from the Purple Cliffs to the lunch. To RSVP or sign-up, contact Donna Mae at (970) 2362313.

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 5001,000-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) 3823511 or ltucker@lpea.coop.

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

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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 ages 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: 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 Volunteer-Powered Program Offers Hope SASO seeks compassionate, caring people to become advocates on its 24-hour crisis hotline. Provide sexual assault survivors with support and resources to promote healing. Call Laura, 259-3074, for information about free upcoming training.

Great Old Broads for Wilderness Host Art Quilt Raffle Tickets are on sale for the 2019 Art Quilt Fundraiser. This year’s quilt, entitled “Get into the Wild,” celebrates the conservation organization’s 30th anniversary by commemorating various landscapes they have worked to protect. Proceeds will support Broads’ work to protect America’s wild public lands & waters. Tickets can purchased online at www.greatoldbroads.org/2019-art-quiltraffle/. Drawing will be held mid-December.

Powerhouse Needs Volunteers Volunteers ages 18 and older are needed at the Powerhouse Science Center for shifts of 2-4 hours between 9 a.m.-4 p.m. No experience necessary, though a background or interest in science, technology, art, engineering and math is helpful. Volunteer tasks include assisting in the exhibit gallery, at the front desk, the garden area and working on general projects that arise. A commitment of at least once a week is preferred. To learn more, email Kathleen@powsci.org.

Applications for Advanced Standing MSW Program Students with a bachelor’s degree in social work (BSW) are eligible for a one-year Masters of Social Work program through the University of Denver. The program starts summer 2019, and classes are taught in Durango at The Commons Building. Stipends for child welfare, integrated behavioral health care are available. Native American tuition support to eligible students is also available. Email wanda.ellingson@du.edu.

NewspaperOrigami

it lasts longer.

Some of the amazing photos you see in the Telegraph are now available to purchase online, in digital or print. (*for personal enjoyment and use only.)

To find out more, go to durangotelegraph.com and click on “buy photos.”

A Christma Tree telegraph

Dec. 5, 2019 n 23

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