2011 new comers guide

PublisherRichard Ballantine

General ManagerSharon Hermes

Marketing ManagerDennis Hanson

Advertising Sales Manager Dominick McCullough

Design ManagerBrady Sutherlin

Magazine Editor, Designer & Puzzle MakerKarla Sluis

Advertising Design/PrepressMitchell Carter Brady ChoateGeorgia Davenport Jennifer Dickens Laney PetersonJeri Trausch Michelle UhlTracy Willbanks

Account ExecutivesDarryl Hunt Karolann Latimer Shawna LongSusan WrightLarissa LopezRob Lillard

On the cover:Lake Como, as seen from California Pass at the top of the California Gulch 4x4 road between Silverton and Ouray. Photo by Hal Lott

The Durango Herald uses reasonable effort to include accurate and up-to-date informa-tion for its special magazine publications. However, all general information comes from a variety of sources and may change at any time for any reason. To verify specific infor-mation, refer to the organization or business noted. To see the online version of this guide, click the link at: www.durangoherald.com

A publication of

INSIDEPrepare to be puzzled Geography

5 Name That Landmark 6 Newbie Navigation7 Match the Drive Time quiz

Government8 Meet the mayor8 Colorado at a glance 9 Are you smarter than a fifth grader?

Weather & Gardening11 Season Savvy crossword11 Weather Watcher quiz12 Monsoon season defined13 How will your garden grow? 14 In the Know: Darrin Parmenter

History15 Ancient Sites word search17 Native American events18 The Main attraction18 In the Know: Duane Smith19 The Boom-Town Jumble

Housing20 Zoom in on home ownership21 Homebuying questions23 Name That Neighborhood quiz

Transportation24 Multimodal movement24 In the Know: Tim Cunningham

Education26 Overview of School District 9-R26 Match the Mascot game27 Graduation Pop Quiz28 La Plata County schools29 In the Know: Gigi Duthie

Health & Fitness31 Outdoor recreation crossword31 Etiquette on the trails32 Taking Durango’s pulse34 Bike Town, U.S.A.34 Bike Slang Mash-Up36 Animated by the Animas36 River Jumble

Animals38 Dogs rule, owners drool38 In the Know: Stacee Santi40 Veterinary services40 4-H Clubs in La Plata County42 Wild Kingdom word search42 In the Know: Joe Lewandowski43 In the Know: Bryan Peterson

Arts & Entertainment 45 Fun & Games crossword46 Southwest Colorado libraries48 Festivals crossword48 In the Know: Ted Holteen50 Southwest Colorado museums52 Fun for kids52 In the Know: Kate McElwain

“The Chief” points the way

across Ninth Street to Toh-Atin Gallery.

The tall sculpture was originally outside the Chief Restaurant on Main Avenue, but was purchased by the Clark family at an auction and moved to its present location in 1983.

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Get out there and recreate

Be prepared to play tour guide

Go wild and search for local animals

If you enjoy outdoor recreation, you’ll never

be bored here. See if you can find your favorite

sport in this puzzle.

Don’t know your sipapus from your metates? Learn the vocabulary of ancient dwellings in this word search.

Durango Area Resource Guide • February 13, 2011 • 3

4 • February 13, 2011 • Durango Area Resource Guide

You are hereFarewell to traffic jams, crowds and smog. Those stiff business suits can just stay in the box.Welcome to Durango! It’s time to dust off your bike and smile at strangers on the sidewalk.

What is so special about the Durango area? Perhaps it’s a collective sense of humor – the little absurdi-

ties of daily life that bind the community. Here’s an introduction to an offbeat town.

You know you’re in Durango when...i People are positively brimming with

“wellness” from the many medical- marijuana dispensaries.

i You “groom” your Labrador in the river and “wash” your Subaru in the rain.

i A new business combines indoor climbing, yoga, espresso and lounging.

i You hit a deer, elk or bear, and someone stops to take it home for meat.

i Nearly every summer weekend, you can drink beer in the middle of Main Avenue.

i You have three part-time jobs arranged around peak hours for skiing and biking.

i Flip flops or cowboy boots are socially approved formal wear.

i You own four bikes and no car; or your bike cost more than your car.

i You can tell time by the courthouse clock tower and train whistles.

i You slide into a ditch during a snow-storm and wait for a stranger to tow you out.

i When you’re sloppy and hung over, you’ll run into your boss and your ex at City Market.

i There’s a correlation between sick

days and powder days at DMR. i It could be sunny, windy, hailing,

snowing or raining – in the same hour. i The first local tomatoes cause a

shopping frenzy at the farmers market.i You know what’s in Frito Pie – and

your order it anyway. i You are late to work because of a

“sheep jam” on the highway in Bayfield.i You have had all your flowers

beheaded by deer in one night.i A huge crowd will turn out on a

midwinter night to watch a two-hour parade. i You give directions that include

“the old barn,” “X-rock” or “the longhorn herd.”

You know you’re in Durango when...In-Jokes:

Animas River Rio de Las Animas Perdidas, or “River of

the Lost Souls” begins high in the San Juan Mountains and flows south (toward the

upper right in this image) into New Mexico.

Fort Lewis CollegeThe four-year public liberal

arts college is perched on a flat ridge on the east edge of Durango.

You are here


Let’s Play...Geology Pop Quiz

a.

d.

b.

e.

c.

f.

g

h.

i.

Distinctive mountains and rocks frame the lifestyle and the language of locals. “Lizard Head” and “X-Rock” will pop up in conversations or directions, and you’ll need to understand the reference. This matching game will help you get oriented to well-known landmarks in Durango and the Four Corners.

1. Missionary Ridge. Above the Animas Valley to the east, it’s known for a distinctive slide, which occurred in 1998, and the major wildfire of 2002.

2. Perins Peak. From downtown Durango, this distinctive ridge is the view to the west.

3. Arches National Park. Delicate Arch, near Moab, Utah, is located 160 miles northwest of Durango.

4. Chimney Rock. A distinctive land form west of Pagosa Springs is part of an archaeological area of ancient Indian sites.

5. Lizard Head Peak. The 556th highest peak in Colorado is 12 miles south of the Telluride turnoff on Highway 145.

6. Engineer Mountain. A 12,968-foot peak north of Durango Moun-tain Resort off of Highway 550.

7. Sleeping Ute Mountain. These mountains near Towaoc are said to resemble a sleeping Ute chief lying on his back with his arms folded across his chest.

8. X Rock. A favorite spot for climbers, this rock is at the northwest edge of Durango.

9. Shiprock. A 1,583-foot high rock formation rising out of the northwestern New Mexico desert in the Navajo Nation.

Answers: 1. i, 2. a, 3. g, 4. c, 5. h, 6. b, 7. e, 8. d, 9. f

What formed the Animas and Durango valleys? A. Volcanic eruptionsB. Ancient glaciersC. Sea water from the Gulf of MexicoD. All of the above.

The Animas and Durango valleys have some of the oldest geological formations on Earth. Rocks found between Durango and Silverton have been documented at about 2 billion years old. The La Plata mesas are around 60 million years old. Answer: D.

Main AvenueHighway 550 comes down from the mountains into Durango (shown here from left to right) and becomes Main Avenue, which leads to the historic downtown area.

Smelter Mountain From 1881 to the 1920s, the mountain just southwest of downtown Durango offered a process to reduce ore to gold and silver. It was also a uranium mining site. Today, an off-leash dog park along the river is located at the base of Smelter.

Animas Mountain The rock outcrop below is part of the tan and coral colored cliffs that rise over the northwest edge of Durango, with a view looking south over the city. The area is popular with hikers and mountain bikers in summer and fall.

HAL LOTT/Herald photo

Name That Landmark!

Animas Mountain: Easily recognizable by the green water tower on the northwest end of town. It is also the original location of Durango.

Arboles: East of town past Ignacio.

Baker’s Bridge: North of town on CR 250.

Bodo Park: Just south of town in the industrial area.

Buck Highway: Runs south of Bayfield and can be used to get to Ignacio or Navajo Lake, further south.

Chimney Rock: Large spire between Durango andPagosa Springs on Highway 160.

Coalbank Pass: North of town near the base of Engineer Mountain on Highway 550.

College Drive: Formerly Sixth Street, running east to west in Durango.

Durango Mall: South of town on Highway 550/160.

Durango West I and II: Housing developments west of Durango off Highway 160 past Lightner Creek.

Electra Lake: Semi-private lake north of Durango.

DMR (Durango Mountain Resort): Ski area 20 minutes north of Durango along Highway 550.

Elmore’s Corner: Located on Highway 160 East. If you are driving from Durango, a right turn here will take you to the airport. A left turn will take you to CR 234 for a scenic drive through incredible farm and ranch country.

Engineer Mountain: North of town, west of Highway 550, distinguished by its dome shape.

Farmington Hill: Where Highways 550 and 160 split, with the 550 running south through Aztec and the way to Farmington. The 160 East continues south and east toward Bayfield, Pagosa Springs and Wolf Creek Pass.

Florida Mesa: A region southeast of Durango toward the airport.

Folsom Mountain: Northeast corner of Durango.

Haviland Lake: Situated north of Durango and south of Electra Lake, this lake is easily accessible, yet retains its secluded atmosphere with many excellent camp sites. Chris Park is located near the same intersection off of Highway 550. The Rapp Corral is at that corner.

HD Mountains: A roadless area south of Bayfield, these mountains have the highest quality old-growth ponderosa pines in the San Juans.

Hermosa: Small community north of Durango on Highway 550 in the mid-section of the Animas Valley.

Hesperus: This community, located along Highway 140, west of Durango and south of Highway 160 West, has a rich agricultural heritage, especially on the mesas. You can access Farmington to the south, or La Plata Canyon to the north.

Junction Creek: A tributary of the Animas River north of town, with access to the Colorado Trail and Turtle Lake.

Kennebec Pass: Northernmost area of La Plata Canyon.

La Plata Highway: Highway 140 south of Hesperus that leads to Farmington, New Mexico.

La Plata Canyon: West of town, north of Hesperus.

La Plata County Fairgrounds: Located at 25th Street and Main Avenue in Durango.

Lemon Reservoir: Recreation area east of Durango.

If you’re new to the area, landmarks can help you find your destination with relative ease. The following is a list of common landmarks in and around Durango. These are names you’ll likely encounter as you settle in.

HAL LOTT/ Herald photo

Skiers gather at the base of Durango Mountain Resort on a sunny January day. DMR is located 20 minutes north of Durango along Highway 550.

Newbie Navigation

GEOGRAPHY


Take Florida Road to CR 243, bear left to the reservoir.

Lightner Creek: Just west of Durango off Highway 160; offers access to Dry Fork.

McPhee Reservoir: Large man-made lake just outside of Dolores.

Mercy Regional Medical Center: The South-west’s largest medical facility, southeast of Durango on Highway 160.

Mesa Verde National Park: The world-famous 700-year-old Ancestral Puebloan cliff dwellings found west of Durango and before Cortez.

Molas Pass: High alpine pass just before the descent into Silverton.

Navajo Reservoir: Southeast of Durango and Ig-nacio; part of the New Mexico State Park system.

Pagosa Hot Springs: Renowned hot springs located in the town of the same name.

Pastorius Reservoir: Southeast of Durango on the Florida Mesa.

Raider Ridge: Tall ridgeline east of Fort Lewis College and Goeglein Gulch.

Red Mesa: South of Hesperus.

Red Mountain Pass: Highway 550 pass on the way to Ouray. The high alpine Red Mountain is known for its rust coloration.

Santa Rita Park: About a mile south of Down-town Durango along Camino del Rio (Highway 550/160 East), this is a great family recreation area and the terminus for most rafting groups.

This is where rafters and floaters can get of out of the water for a return trip to the headwaters for another ride down the river.

Skyridge: A housing development above Durango, east of Fort Lewis College.

Smelter Mountain: Visible from town, it used to be mined for uranium. Radio towers are visible at the top.

Strater Hotel: Historic hotel completed in 1885 on the corner of 7th Street and Main Avenue in historic Downtown Durango.

Wildcat Canyon: Also known as Highway 141 just west of town off Highway 160, this is a scenic drive that also attracts touring bicyclists.

Vallecito Reservoir: About 25 miles east of Durango and well-known for its fishing, this scenic tourist destination is also popular for its quaint lodging facilities and guest ranches. Take Florida Road north out of Durango and follow the signs.

Wolf Creek Pass: Located east of Pagosa Springs on Highway 160 East, Wolf Creek Ski Area is located near the summit. Known for its extremely deep snow accumulations, the ski area is very popular. However, the pass is subject to frequent closures because of the snow accumulations. Check the weather and road conditions before making the drive. i

1. Bayfield2. Denver3. Telluride4. Albuquerque5. Cortez6. Farmington7. Pagosa Springs

A. 2 hours, 16 minutesB. 6 hours, 8 minutesC. 26 minutesD. 1 hour, 5 minutesE. 1 hour, 11 minutesF. 3 hours, 41 minutesG. 49 minutes

Let’s Play: Match the Drive Time

from Durango to ...

1.C,

2.B

, 3.A

, 4.F

, 5.G

, 6.D

, 7.E

. Sou

rce:

Map

ques

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A formal greeting, and a casual chat

Meet the Mayor: Michael Rendon

Colorado at a Glance: A few basics on the “ruddy” state

RIGHT: Michael Rendon applauds during a Durango City Council meeting where he was sworn in as Durango’s mayor on April 20, 2010. He attended the

meeting in a top hat and tails. “It was a festive evening that called for festive clothes,” he said. The Durango City Council selects a mayor from its member-

ship. The mayor serves a one-year term, presides at all meetings of the council, and is recognized as head of the city government, but does not have regular

administrative duties. The mayor does not have any power of veto. In addition to Rendon, current council members are: Joe Colgan, Paul Broderick,

Doug Lyon and Mayor Pro Tem Christina Rinderle Thompson.

Durango Mayor Michael Rendon was born and raised in Col-orado and has lived in Durango since 1993. He has worked as a sustainable farmer, a clinical assistant at Planned Parenthood, a counselor at Volunteers of America, a health educator at San Juan Basin Health, a team leader at Community Connections for the developmentally disabled and a member of Americorps. When he’s not playing violin in his band or working in his garden, he also volunteers for several other environmental councils and committees. He currently works at Sexual Assault Services Organization as the first male director of the organization.

Q: You’ve lived here for 18 years. Where did you move from, and why did you choose Durango?A: I moved to Durango from Littleton, Colorado, where I grew up.

I wanted to get out of the suburbs and closer to nature, and was also looking for a smaller community. Durango has fit my needs perfectly.

STEVE LEWIS/Herald photo

i Capital: Denveri Governor: John Hickenlooper

i Lieutenant Governor: Joe Garciai Senators: Michael Bennett and Mark Udall

i U.S. Representatives: 7i Nickname: Centennial State

i Origin of name: From the Spanish, “ruddy” or “red”

i Land area: 103,717 sq mi. i Number of counties: 64i State forests: 1 (71,000 ac.)

i State parks: 44 (160,000 ac.)i Geographic center: Located in Park County, 30 miles northwest of Pikes Peaki 10 largest cities (2005 est.): Denver, 557,917; Colorado Springs, 369,815; Aurora, 297,235; Lakewood, 140,671; Fort Collins, 128,026; Thornton, 105,182; Westminster, 105,084; Arvada, 103,966; Pueblo, 103,495; Centennial, 98,243i Largest county by population and area: El Paso 565,582 (2005); Las Animas, 4,773 sq mi.

Source: Colorado.gov

See MAYOR, Page 9

GOVERNMENT



Every local 10-year-old knows Colorado’s symbols. Do you?

Are you smarter than a Durango fifth-grader?

1. Flower 2. Tree 3. Bird

7. Song 8. Fossil9. Motto

1. Rocky Mountain columbine, 2. Colorado blue spruce, 3. Lark bunting, 4. Rocky Mountain bighorn sheep, 5. Aquamarine, 6. Blue and white, 7.“Where the Columbines Grow”, 8. Stegosaurus, 9.“Nil sine Numine” (Nothing without Providence). Source: Colorado.gov.

4. Animal 5. Gemstone 6. Colors

At an elevation of 6,512 feet above sea level, Durango has four distinct seasons with 300 days of sunshine and moderate temperatures year-round. Winters are usually sunny, with temperatures ranging from 10 to 50 degrees. Spring brings warmer temperatures and rain. Summer

temperatures seldom climb above the upper 80s, and rivers and reservoirs stay relatively full in summer, fed by melting snow in the San Juan Mountains. Autumn days are dry and cool, and aspen trees mixed with pines create a tapestry of gold and green along the San Juan Skyway. i

Petals & Powder

Brilliant yellow forsythia (left, shown

on April 16) is one of the harbingers of

spring in Durango. According to

phenology – the study of nature’s

cycles –when forsythia blooms

it’s time to plant peas, even

if there’s still a chance of snow.

300 sunny days: The climate in review

JERRY McBRIDE/Herald photo

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WEATHER

10 • February 13, 2011

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1. On average, the warmest month is:A. JuneB. JulyC. AugustD. September

2. The highest recorded temperature, set in 1989, was:

A. 100 B. 102C. 106D. 108

3. On average, the coldest month is:A. DecemberB. JanuaryC. FebruaryD. March

4. The lowest recorded temperature, set in 1963, was:

A. -10B. -15C. -20D. -30

5. On average, the wettest month is:A. MayB. JuneC. JulyD. August

6. Annual average snowfall is:A. 25”B. 50”C. 70”D. 90”

7. Average days of sunshine per year:A. 200B. 250C. 275D. 300

Source: National Weather Service

1. B; 2. B; 3. B; 4. D; 5. D; 6. C; 7. DAnswers:

See Weather Crossword solution, Page 15

ACROSSIn the spring, this facility switches from ice skating to roller skating. (2 words) This big event draws American Indians from all over the U.S. to dance and drum at Fort Lewis College in late March. (2 words)On average, snow melts during this month in Durango city limits.Rafters and kayakers test their skills at Smelter Rapids when the river is running at peak flow, which falls sometime between these two months. (2 words)Local slang for Durango Mountain Resort’s ski area.Causes a unique traffic jam on a highway in Bayfield in the fall. (2 words) Homeowners living adjacent to wilderness areas are strongly encouraged to create “defensible space” around their homes by cutting down brush and clear-ing dead wood in order to prevent this.Beloved Southwest food roasted in big, rotating cookers in late September and October. (2 words)This large, wild animal is attracted to unsecured trash cans and backyard bird feeders in the late summer and fall.Predominant color of fall foliage north of Durango in September and October. Drivers are advised to “share the road,” particularly in the summer, with . (2 words) A winter carnival with costumes, a live variety show, events, a big parade, a silly theme and plenty of alcoholic beverages held in late January or early February. Without a greenhouse, tomatoes grown in Durango city limits generally aren’t ripe until this month.

DOWNA type of vehicle drivers should expect in big numbers in Ignacio and the Durango area around Labor Day.Birds that fly in a V formation in early fall and have a distinctive “honking” call. (2 words) The “ ” season, which usually begins in mid-July, is the result of Pacific moisture from Mexico that travels through Arizona up to Colorado. Every year, the Durango Fish Hatchery raises 150,000 rainbow trout to catchable size, about 10 inches, and stocks them from spring through fall in rivers, creeks and reservoirs throughout the Four Corners. The hatchery also raises more than 1 million rainbow trout and kokanee salmon , which are 3-5 inches in size, to stock in area waters. A popular activity on the Animas River that helps locals cool off on a hot day. Part of a house that may freeze on a very cold winter night.A person on skis is pulled by horses over a ramp in this sport. Drivers can avoid sliding into a ditch on an icy road by driving . “ season” follows a wet winter and makes car washing seem futile. One of the top road hazards in late fall, especially during rutting season when the males are aggressive and somewhat dazed. The City requires you to do this to your sidewalk after it snows.A mid-October festival in Buckley Park celebrates this fruit with pies, games and workshops. It is abundant in Durango and the Animas Valley.The best type of snow for snowmen, snowball fights and forts is slightly .

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February 13, 2011 • 11

ARE YOU...Season Savvy?

Let’s Play...Weather Watcher

There’s a saying about weather in Southwest Colorado: If you don’t like it, wait 10 minutes. It will change. The weather may be fickle, but many things stay the same season after season. See if you can name them in this puzzle.


In case you haven’t noticed, there are no palm trees or tropi-cal breezes in Southwest Colorado. If you are new here and you

hear locals using the term “monsoon” for the shift in the weather in mid-July, you may be confused. Most people think of monsoon

as it relates to southeast Asia or India; but here in Colorado we have a seasonal monsoon of our own. The weather prior to this shift may be quite dry and windy and have high storms which produce “virga” (lots of visible rain coming out of dark clouds, yet never actually hit-ting the ground). The monsoons are the result of Pacific moisture from Mexico that travels through Arizona up to Colorado.

About the middle of July, when the conditions are right and the dew point in Phoenix, Ariz., hits about 55 degrees F. for three or more con-secutive days, then we in Colorado may expect the monsoon season to

begin. In wetter years, you can set your watch by summer thunderstorms: Dark clouds roll in by 2 p.m., rain starts falling by 3 p.m., it pours for a few hours, and by 5 p.m. the sun is back out again. The monsoons are

often accompanied by dramatic, frequent bolts of lightning and thunder loud enough to shake the house – and frighten the dog. Remember the 30/30

lightning safety rule: Go indoors if, after seeing lightning, you cannot count to 30 before hearing thunder. Stay indoors for 30 minutes after hearing the

last clap of thunder. i

What the heck is monsoon season?

Consider the length of the growing season, soil characteristics and exposure before selecting flowers for mountain gardens.Be cautious with late-blooming flowers, as they may not have a chance to bloom in short-season climates. Choose plants that are hardy to USDA zones 2 to 4. The lower the zone, the hardier the plant. For more information,

visit www.co.la plata.co.us/ departments_ officials/ extension_ office/ horticulture_ natural_ resources.

Picking Petals

WEATHER&GARDENING

’’Q: What’s your best piece of advice for gardeners who are new to Colorado and the Durango area?A: Do not expect our climate, soil, topography or growing season to be anything close to what you had in California, the Midwest, Texas or the South. The only thing that is consistent about our growing season is its inconsistency. If you are dedicated to growing a lawn, trees, or a garden – edible or ornamental – then I would highly recommend taking classes from local experts, asking your neighbors what has worked for them, and expect lots of trial and error. Crop and plant failure supports our local economy: Consider it your initiation.

La Plata County Extension director and expert on horticulture and gardeningIn the Know: Darrin Parmenter

1. What is the last frost in spring and first frost in fall?A. Early April / late NovemberB. Late May / late SeptemberC. Late June / early SeptemberD. Late March / early October

2. Which of these annual flowers is NOT deer-resistant?A. PansyB. LobeliaC. MarigoldD. Zinnia

3. What type of soil is most common in the Durango area?A. Rich, dark, crumbly loamB. Sandy with few nutrientsC. Clay and loamD. A fast-draining combination of

loam and sand

4. Which perennial can typically survive the cold temperatures associated with Durango winters? A. JasmineB. GeraniumC. PenstemonD. Orchid

5. Which vegetable is notoriously challenging to grow here?A. RhubarbB. Swiss chardC. TomatoD. Lettuce

6. Newcomers will be rewarded with thriving gardens if they: A. Cultivate patience B. Select hardy plants zoned for the

regionC. Manipulate soil and research

microclimateD. All of the above

How will your garden grow? Get in the zone with this quiz

See answers, Page 15

’’In the Know: Darrin Parmenter

MAYOR From Page 12

.Q: What motivated you to become a community leader?A: I came to care for this “place in space” that I have called

home. Once you realize that you really love something, you naturally want to protect it and do your part to help make it succeed.Q: How do you think Durango and the surrounding

region has changed in 18 years? How do you think it might change in the future?There are certainly more people, which in some ways

makes it feel less close-knit, but has also brought many more opportunities. Although this trend is slowing down, I don’t see it changing. I think the City has been positioning itself to grow in a more thoughtful manner, and I think the future continues to look bright.Q: What advice would you give new residents on the

nuts and bolts of living here, such as jobs, transporta-tion and housing?

A: Leave your suits at home, or at least put them in the back of your closet. Durangoans are more concerned about whether they have the right gear for their activities (biking, backpacking etc.) than what they look like in their gear.

Public transportation is great in the city, but more challenging as you get out of town. I would do some research on jobs and housing with the chamber of commerce prior to moving here.

Nobody moves here because of the abundant, well-paying jobs and cheap housing, but we make it work because the people and surroundings really are that great.

Q: As an FLC alumus, what advice would you give to incoming college students about life in Durango?A: Durango is part of the Fort Lewis experience. Many

city residents, including FLC professors, staff (and politicians) are FLC alumnus. We understand what you are experiencing, and we’re here to help.Q: How would you characterize the social scene in

Durango? How can newcomers feel connected in the community?

A: Get involved. From literally hundreds of non-profits to choose from, there should not be a prob-

lem finding people to share a common interest. From Se-niors Outdoors to the homeless shelter, from FLC sports

to the Durango Bluegrass Meltdown, and from the Durango Farmer’s Market to the Snowdown winter festival, you will not have a problem con-necting with others who share your interests,

as long as you are willing to make the first connection.

Q: Any last words for newcomers? Welcome! Enjoy a world that many only experience a week out of the year. They call it a vacation. We call it home. i

1. ANIMAS – River that runs through Durango and south into New Mexico. A. anníh muss B. awnée moss

2. ESCALANTE – Middle school at the base of the Purple Cliffs, near Wal-Mart. A. ess cuh lawn´tay* B. essćal en tay

3. ARBOLES – Town near Navajo Lake on the Southern Ute Indian Reservation. A. ar bow leez´ B. ar´bowls

4. FLORIDA – Local river, road and mesa with the same pronunciation. A. flor ee´duh B. florúh duh

5. GOEGLEIN GULCH – Road leading up to Fort Lewis College. A. gig´line B. go´gleen

6. HOVENWEEP – Monument with ancient dwellings at Utah/Colo. border. A. hoe´ ven weep B. haw´ ven weep

7. IGNACIO – Town south of Durango; the headquarters of Southern Ute Tribe. A. ig naw´see oh B. ig nashé oh

8. JICARILLA - An Apache tribe in northern New Mexico. A. hickúh reeúh B. jick a rillá

9. KROEGERS – The Ace Hardware store at Town Center in Durango A. kray´gers B. crow´gers

10. MANCOS – Town west of Durango. A. mainćuss B. manćoes

11. OURAY – Town north of Silverton. A. yoo ray´ B. oo´ray

12. PIEDRA – River that flows through Archuleta, Hinsdale and Mineral counties. A. pee ay´druh B. pie´druh

13. TOWAOC – Ute Mountain Ute community, south of Cortez. A. toyýock B. too wayóck

14. VALLECITO – Lake and community northeast of Durango. A. vy uh see´ toe B. val uh sigh´ toe

15. WEMINUCHE – Colorado’s largest wilderness area. A. wem in ooch´ B. wee muh nuhćhay

16. UTE – Native American tribe closest to Durango area. A. yoot B. oo tay´

Let’s Play: Native TongueThe pronunciation of some place names has gotten a bit distorted over time. In some cases, this is due to a lack of cultural awareness. Since our region has a multicultural history, there is an abundance of surnames that are tricky to pronounce. Take this quiz to test out the native tongue.

A seasonal delight: Oh lay´ thuh l l

Sweet Corn


‘‘Once you realize that you really love something, you naturally want to protect it and do your part to help make it succeed.– Durango Mayor Michael Rendon

Although you may hear some people saying these words differ-ently, the correct pronunciations are all the first choice, A.

Answers:

Olathe (“oh lay´thuh”) corn is an eagerly anticipated regional treat. Olathe is a small town near Montrose that grows a trademarked sweet and tender variety. An early August festival celebrates the special crop.


1. C. The average last frost is May 25 and the first frost is Sept. 22, but weather can be very unpredictable. Be prepared for occasional snow in June or hail in August. Check the forecast for the first week of June. If no frosts are forecasted, then you can put out warm-season crops – with the possibil-ity of having to cover them.2. A. Pansies are deer candy. So are many other prized flow-

ers. Before you plant a garden, ask your neighbors about problems with deer and other wildlife and check with the La Plata County Extension Office for a list of local deer-resistant plants. 3. C. Tilling our heavy soils can be a challenge. The best

solution is to create raised beds or improve the soil with com-post and other amendments. Use a soil test kit before plant-ing, because garden soils in Colorado can be very alkaline.4. C. We live in USDA Zone 4-6, and that means plants that

cannot survive harsh winters will not make it. Tender perennials can either be treated as annuals, or you can try planting them in pots and bringing them indoors to a greenhouse or sunny room through the cold months.5. C. Large beefsteak-type tomatoes thrive in a long, warm

growing season. Summers here can be dry and cool, and toma-toes thrive in humidity and heat. The best bet for warm-season fruiting crops is a greenhouse.6. D. Gardening here is not for the lazy or faint of heart. If

you use a “stick it in the ground and it will grow” approach, you’ll be frustrated. Ask for help from neighbor gardeners and professionals and learn from their experience. i

Garden Quiz Answers From Page 12

M

M

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H

H

H

H

H

H

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A

A

A

A

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AG

G

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F II

II

P

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H I

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L LOT

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B

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R

R

R

R

R

W

W W

R

R

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R

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CY

Y

Y

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J

J

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C

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S

S

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SK

KHO

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From Page 11 Weather Crossword Solution

Did you know?Silverton is passionate about rhubarb. It’s one of the few things that grows well at 9,300 feet. The town honors the vegetable – eaten as a fruit – on July 4th at the International Rhubarb Festival. Rhubarb-chile salsa, anyone?

HISTORY


Shedding light on the pastLuminarias (paper lanterns) light up the interior of Spruce Tree House during a special Holiday Open House Dec. 9 at Mesa Verde National Park. The hole at the bottom is a kiva, an underground ceremonial room. Ancestral Puebloans made Mesa Verde (“may-suh-vair-day”) their home from about A.D. 550 to 1300.


ADOBE – Sun-dried earth used to build houses.

ANASAZI – A Navajo word that means “ancient ones.”

AZTEC RUINS – Ancient dwellings in a national monument near Farmington, N.M.

HOGAN – An eight-sided home with a doorway that opens to the east.

HOPI – A group of American Indians who live in pueblos in northeastern Arizona.

KIVA – A special structure used primarily for religious and social ceremonies.

MESA VERDE – “Green table,” a national park with many ancient sites near Cortez.

METATE – Stone mortar for processing grains and seeds.

NAVAJO – Second largest tribe in the U.S.; the Navajo Nation is in the Four Corners.

NOMADIC – Communities of people who move from one place to another.

PETROGLYPH – An image that has been carved or scratched into a stone surface.

PUEBLO – A name for a building of adobe and stone; also refers to particular Indian groups.

SIPAPU – A small hole in the floor of a kiva that represents a spiritual portal.

CHACO CANYON – National historical park with ancient sites in northwestern New Mexico.

HOVENWEEP – A national monument with ancient dwellings on the Utah-Colorado border.

UTE MOUNTAIN UTE – Ute tribe headquartered in Towaoc.

ZUNI – A group of Pueblo Indians who live in western New Mexico.

PRESERVATION – Work done to stabilize and protect an ancient structure.

SOUTHERN UTE – Tribe in La Plata, Archuleta and Montezuma counties, with headquarters in Ignacio.

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Are ancient sitesnew to you?When you live here, you become a tour

guide for visiting friends and relatives. Here’s a word search to help you learn the vocabulary of ancient American Indian sites in the Four Corners region.

Native American culture is alive and well in the Durango area. Here’s a sample of annual events. i Chimney Rock Archaeologi-cal Area near Pagosa Springs holds a Festival of Arts & Culture in late June, which includes interactive demon-strations of crafts and skills of Ancestral Puebloan culture and regional Native American cultures. At past festivals, there have been free demonstrations of basket-making, flint knapping, flute making and playing, grinding grain, pottery making, fiber spinning and yucca pounding to make rope.

i Held every Memorial Day weekend, the Mesa Verde Country Indian Arts &

Culture Festival includes a juried Indian art market, Indian dances, a Navajo rug auction, special archaeologi-

cal tours and a Native American concert.

i Hozhoni Days, or “Days of Beauty,” is one of the oldest and biggest events at Fort Lewis College. Held in late March, it

highlights the cultures of many of the over

120 tribes represented by Fort Lewis College’s Native

American students.

(“Fancy dancer” participant shown at

left.) The event includes the Hozhoni Days Powwow and the Miss Hozhoni Pageant.

Find these words

A plethora of powwows & pottery

Herald file photo



1. W O N T D N O W

2. T E R M S L E

3. G E N I U N T L N

4. L O D G

5. W C O D O R O K

6. E L P R A M

HISTORY

The Main attractionThe south end of Main Avenue has always been the heart of Durango. For more than 125 years, it has been the site of commerce and culture. Most of Durango’s parades, festivals and nightlife takes place on Main. Many of the downtown buildings, built of sturdy brick in the early 1900s, still stand today. Below, you’ll find a sample of the street’s eclectic architecture and interesting history. For more, visit AnimasMuseum.org and navigate to two excellent, printable history walks – one downtown and one along residential East Third Avenue.

699 MainThe Strater Hotel exemplifies a flush period of wealth from the railroad, the mines and smelter. The 1888 building is a mix of Italianate, Romanesque and Renaissance architectural styles.

846 MainThe storefront of this currently vacant building features Carrera Glass. The glass, which is no longer made, is an example of the slick, streamlined style of the 1930s and 1940s.

990 MainBuilt in 1889, the Schneider Block housed the Keely Institute, a reform group devoted to the cure of liquor, opium and tobacco habits. In 1900, part of the building became a dance hall.

965 & 969 MainTwo saloons operated here in the heyday of the notorious saloon district on the west side of the 900 block. After the saloons closed, two different Wong families operated cafés into the 1950s.

Downtown in 1895A cable car heads south down Main Avenue from Ninth Street. The Strater Hotel and Smelter Mountain are shown in the distance.Image courtesy of Animas Museum

Q: What is your favorite historic building in downtown Durango that still stands today?A: My favorite building is the Romanesque sandstone Newman building at 801 Main

Ave. The reason I like it is that it had the first elevator in town, and it was the only one for 100 miles around. Charles Newman was a pioneer druggist and he finished the building in 1892 just before the great crash. Putting in the elevator was a statement of what the future was going to be – and an expression of faith in Durango. The building originally housed the Smelter National Bank (1892-1897), which is believed to be the first business in Durango. The bank sign is still visible on the back side of the building.

Fort Lewis College history professorIn the Know: Duane Smith

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KARLA SLUIS/Herald photo

A remodeled elevator, left, is still in its original location in the Newman Building at the entrance to office space on 803 Main Ave.


Hidden Answer (found in the circle spaces): The Rio Grande Railroad, originally established in 1881, is now a popular visitor attraction. What is the name (acronym) of the railroad today?

1. Many of Durango’s early buildings were simple wood frame structures. In 1889, a disastrous fire broke out that leveled most of the ______ area. When the town was rebuilt, many of the buildings were made of stone and brick, which is one reason the area has endured so well into the present time.

2. Soon after the railroad was developed, a _____ was built in Durango to process ore. The mountain close to downtown bears the same name today.

3. Mining activities increased dramatically in the 1870s, with development of lode mining techniques, and the beginning of large capital investment in the mining of the San Juan Mountains. Most of the rich ore veins were deep within the mountains and required extensive _____ and ore processing.

4. In spring of 1860, Charles Baker and a prospecting party explored the mountains around Silverton, and found ____. A camp was established at Bakers Park near Silverton, and more miners rushed to the area to explore.

5. The first Animas City was established in 1861 at this site, which is now a D&SNG train stop on the way to Silverton.

6. The coming of the Denver and Rio Grande Railroad in 1881 provided a means by which goods could be economically moved between the mountain mining communities and supply towns. Durango was established in 1880 as the railhead for the new line. William ____ was the main developer of the railroad.

Source: DurangoDowntown.com

1. W O N T D N O W

2. T E R M S L E

3. G E N I U N T L N

4. L O D G

5. W C O D O R O K

6. E L P R A M

Beat the Boom-Town Jumble

Let’s Play...

Right: A mine entry circa 1930Image courtesy of Animas Museum

The Main attraction

Downtown in 1895A cable car heads south down Main Avenue from Ninth Street. The Strater Hotel and Smelter Mountain are shown in the distance.

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Answers: 1. Downtown, 2. Smelter, 3. Tunneling, 4. Gold, 5. Rockwood, 6. Palmer

Q: In general, how does the housing market in the Durango area (La Plata County) compare with the rest of the country?

A: Even as the economy and financial markets struggle nationwide, the housing market in La Plata County remains stable. The median home price is still too expensive for most families: Third quarter 2010 median home prices remain out of reach for most residents. However, for the first time in approximately nine years, the City of Durango is seeing condo and townhome product around $220,000 available, and there is overall more product available than in years past. Foreclosures are lower here than in most other parts of the state, and prices in some sub-markets have stayed stable during the recession. While there have been other sub-markets that have seen dramatic declines in prices and increases in inventory, the entry-level market is strong, providing new opportunities for people who choose to purchase a home.

Historically, the area developed as a re-sult of “traditional west” commodities such as minerals, cattle and timber. Since the 1970s, it has been in transition from a tra-ditional rural county to a more urban and economically diversified environment. In the last 10 years, this transition has been most apparent in the regional housing market, with a dramatic increase in median home prices ($159,700 in 2000 and $385,000 in Q3 2010).

Zoom in on home ownership

BELOW: Four-year-old

Carter Peña watches his

toy Camaro roll down the ramp

of his family’s moving van May

13 in Bayfield.

ABOVE:Jennifer Lopez is theexecutive director of the Regional Housing Alliance & La Plata Homes Fund.

Jennifer Lopez of the Regional Housing Alliance offers an overview of the local housing market: The good news? It’s stable, and a great time to buy

HOUSING


Vans are for vroooming!

See Housing, Page 22

STEVE LEWIS/ Herald photos



New residents should consider how much risk they are willing to accept in purchasing a home. Some questions that may help people answer whether now is a good time for homeownership:

1. Why do you want to own a house?2. Are you ready to commit the time,

energy and resources to home ownership?3. How long do you imagine yourself

living in this house?4. Have you thought about ways your

lifestyle would change as a homeowner?5. How confident are you about your

current employment situation?6. How would you self-assess your credit?7. Have you completed a household

budget?8. Are you able to save money every

month?9. How much money do you have saved?10. What resources are available to help

new residents buy a home here?

Is now a good time for home ownership?

10 QUESTIONS

– Jennifer Lopez

The Peña family gathers together to unload boxes. They bought a Bayfield home for $284,900 with help from a loan from the Regional Housing Alliance.


Since the late 1990s, housing demand has far outstripped supply with a sharp increase in sec-ond and resort homeowners, disproportionate-ly impacting low-income and minority house-holds. While a majority of the population with ties to the older economy is struggling, newly arrived people associated with the oil industry and newly arrived retirees are significantly more economically secure. The influx of this new demographic is sustaining high housing prices locally, despite the downturn in housing prices in many – if not most – other markets.

Q: What might surprise new residents coming from out of state about housing in our area?

A: Most people are surprised at how expensive housing is – both for rent and for sale. Often new residents will discover how expensive housing is before they arrive, either through word of mouth or Internet searches. But then when they arrive, they are shocked again that homes are older and often smaller than in other parts of the country.

Q: What is your prediction for the next few years on the best time to buy a home in an unsettled economy?

A: Whenever the time is right for you and your family is the best time to buy a home. People should buy a home because they want to make a long-term investment in the com-munity and put down roots. The unsettled economy affects every household different-ly. If you feel confident about job security and income, then now is a great time. You may miss this opportunity if you wait for a better deal: This may be the best buying climate we have over the next decade.

Right now is historically the most op-portune time to purchase due to low interest rates, product availability and continued tax benefits. Most people predict that as the bond and stock markets recover, interest rates for home loans will increase. Already we are starting to see interest rates increase. Fore-closed properties have had some impact on our local market. However, de-mand for product remains strong in some markets, especially in Durango’s under-$275,000 price range.

Q: In what circumstances is it smarter for new residents to rent rather than buy a home in our area?

Homeownership is a long-term personal commitment

and financial investment. Owning a home may help build assets over time, but it is primarily your home – where you will raise kids and create community. Homeowner-ship is known to raise confidence and sat-isfaction by providing a greater sense of security, empowerment and independence than renting. Owning a home can make housing costs more predictable, and fami-lies have a defined space for which they are responsible and can control.

However, owning a home also requires the expenses of maintenance and repairs as well as the commitment to pay your mort-gage on time every month. Many people would rather keep the freedom of renting than feel bogged down by a mortgage.

Other people prefer to continue to rent because they are able to live in a larger or nicer home in a neighborhood they could not afford to purchase in.

Most people believe that purchasing a home has a lot of potential as

an investment. The lon-ger a family can plan to stay in their home, the more the house will build

equity and appreciate. Homeownership builds

assets in two primary ways: 1) as you pay down,

your mortgage equity increas-es, and 2) if home values in-

crease, additional equity is created. The Regional Housing Alliance of La

Plata County provides Homebuyer Assis-tance Services to people considering pur-chasing a home in La Plata County. The program includes homebuyer counseling,

education and training, and referral to other lenders/entities offering affordable home purchase loans or services. Indi-vidualized counseling helps people assess whether they want to buy a home, and if so how to go through the process. Counselors are available to advise clients throughout the process of purchasing, mortgage ap-plication, financing alternatives, including house inspections and maintenance and foreclosure prevention. Topics include: debt management and credit counseling, estimates of loan amounts affordable to the client, pre-qualification and other af-fordable home purchase loans and descrip-tions of those loan products, how to work with a Realtor, and understanding closing documents.

The RHA also provides free monthly com-prehensive homebuyer education courses. The core homebuyer education curriculum includes: assessing buyer readiness, suc-cessful budgeting, credit issues, financing a home and the mortgage process, selecting a home, the closing process and maintaining a home.

Counseling and education frequently result in developing new budgeting and spending plans for debt reduction and/or saving for a down payment, establishing or repairing credit scores and/or a person-alized homeownership action plan to meet goals.

The RHA offers two loans to assist with down payment and mortgage costs. The loans help to fill the gap between what working families can afford to fi-nance through a conventional mortgage and the cost of available housing. One of the loans comes in the form of a shared appreciation, deferred second mortgage and the other product requires month-ly payment and includes a very low interest rate. Both loan products are only available to income-qualified home-buyers who have completed the home-buyer training and counseling program. Mortgage assistance is available up to $80,000, though the average loan amount is about $40,000.

Q: Any last words of advice on housing for newcomers?

A: Welcome to the community! We hope you meet your neighbors and find the home that’s right for you. Please contact the Re-gional Housing Alliance to find out more about how we can help: www.rhalpc.org or (970) 259-1418. i

HOUSING From Page 20

– Jennifer Lopez ‘‘If you feel confident about job security and income, then now is a great time (to buy a home). You may miss this opportunity if you wait for a better deal: This may be the best buying climate we have over the next decade.


Name that Neighborhood!Let’s Play...

A. SkyridgeB. Durango WestC. The Avenues D. South DurangoE. Forest LakesF. Animas CityG. The BoulevardH. The RanchI. EdgemontJ. CrestviewK. RiverviewL. Grandview

Unlike many suburban areas in the U.S., the Durango area doesn’t have the “cookie cutter” look of vast areas with identical homes. Part of the charm of living here is that neighborhoods are unique: You’ll find log cabins in the wilderness, elegant and modern condos and century-old Victorians on an orderly street grid. See if you can match the descriptions of neighborhoods or regions to their names.

1. Informal name for historic homes along East Third Avenue. 2. Residential area south of College Avenue and east of the train station.3. Development north of Hermosa. 4. Homes north of Chapman Hill.5. Homes on hill on west side ofDurango, near Durango Mountain Park. 6. Housing east of Fort Lewis College. 7. Large development near Bayfield adjacent to wilderness area. 8. Housing east of Farmington Hill and west of Elmore’s Corner.9. Housing in the forest northeast of Durango off Florida Road (CR 240).10. Two large developments (I & II) west of Durango off Hwy 160 West.11. Informal name for older homes east of downtown Durango on a street grid. 12. North Durango around 32nd Street.

Answers: 1.G, 2.D, 3.H, 4.K, 5.J, 6.A, 7.E, 8.L, 9.I, 10.B, 11.C, 12.F

TRANSPORTATION

Durango-area residents can get around by foot, car, bike, plane or train. Some drivers may even be carried along in a sea of sheep. Public transportation in town is easy: The Durango Trolley serves locations throughout the municipal limits. Look for the “T” logo at bus stops.

Important Colorado Driving Lawsi Carry proof of insurance. If you don’t have a motor vehicle insurance card or are not listed in the statewide database, your license is subject to confisca-tion and suspension. The minimum insurance you must have in addition to personal injury protection is: $25,000 for bodily injury or death to one person in any one accident; $50,000 for bodily injury or death to two or more persons in any one accident; and $15,000 property damage coverage.

i Wear a seat belt. It’s required for the driver, every front seat passenger and every child between the ages of 8 and 16 seated anywhere in the vehicle.

i Use a car seat for infants and children. An appropriate child-restraint system is required by law. Children under one year and less than 20 pounds must be in a system in a rear seat; children under 8 must be in a child-restraint system, preferably in the back seat; children between 8 and 16 years of age can wear a seat belt or be in a child-restraint system, according to the manu-facturer’s instructions.

i No text-messaging. Colorado law prohibits drivers under 18 years age from using a cell or mobile phone while driving unless it is to contact the police or fire department, or if it is an emergency. Drivers 18 and older may not use a cell or mobile telephone for text messaging while driving unless it is to contact the police or fire department, or it is an emergency.

i Get a license within 30 days. If you are moving into Colorado, you must obtain new license plates within 30 days of establishing Colorado residency.

’’Q: What’s your best piece of

advice for newcomers – especially those who move from the Sunbelt – on driving in the Durango area?

A: First, Colorado and especially Durango is a right-to-pedestrian state. Drivers must yield the right of way to all pedestrians, espe-cially when they are in the crosswalk areas on the street. Be extremely cautious driving in downtown Durango due to the high volume of pedestrians.

Second, be careful of the bicy-clists, because they have the same rights as motorists on the road. The law of Colorado states that a motor-ist must give a bicyclist a minimum of 3 feet of space.

Third, be aware of seasonal changes, such as snow from late fall to spring, and the afternoon thun-derstorms in the summer. The best driving defense in these weather hazards is to reduce your speed by 5-10 mph and to increase your following distance by adding one to two seconds to the normal three seconds, so your total distance behind should be 4-5 seconds.

In the Know:Tim Cunningham

Driver’s education instructor for Four Corners Safety Association, Inc.

Multimodal Movement


Need a ride?The Durango Transit Center opened in August 2009. It serves as the regional transit facility for all of Southwest Colorado, including Ignacio Road Runner and Greyhound.


Commuting by bike is very popular in the Durango area.

Hoofing itLongtime rancher

J. Paul Brown keeps an eye on sheep as

drivers carefully pass through near

Bayfield. Brown makes the trek every year from

Ignacio to the mountains near

Lemon Reservoir.


EDUCATION

Q: What is unique about the schools in the Durango area compared with the rest of the U.S.?

A: There are many differ-ent things that set the Du-rango area apart from the rest of the U.S., however, one of the most unique things has to be the small-town atmo-sphere that we have been able to maintain here while at the same time being able to offer a world-class education to our students. Our teachers, princi-pals and staff are among the very best and committed to excellence in education. That commitment sets our schools apart from others. Our students have shown time and time again, they can compete not only nationally but globally as well. It is no longer a surprise or unusual for individual students or teams participating in activities to place in the top three or take first place at national and in-ternational competitions. There are many outstanding examples, such as our high school Aerospace Design Team, culinary arts team, Future Farmers of America, Destination Imagination teams, our drama and theater departments and many different sports and activities. Durango is a not only a great place to live but to learn as well.

‘Small-town atmosphere

Let’s Play...Match the Mascot

A. Bulldogs

B. Eagles

C. Mustangs

D. Angels

E. Huskies

F. PanthersG. DemonsH. RoadrunnerI. Eagles (a different school)

J. Wildcats

Answers: 1.E, 2.G, 3.B, 4.C,

5.H, 6.D, 7.J, 8.F, 9.A, 10.I

Keith Owen, Superintendent

of School District 9-R, answers

questions about local schools.

Twelve-year-old Collin Thorburn, son of Ivy and Jason Thorburn, raises his hand in Casey Long’s seventh-grade classroom at Escalante Middle School in October.

NICK MANNING/ Herald photo

26 • February 13, 2011


Q: What advice would you give parents who are new to Durango about helping their children adapt to School District 9-R?

A: I would encourage parents to be actively in-volved in their child’s school. We encourage parents to join their school’s PTO, booster club, or school accountability committee, to name a few. A parent who can attend school meetings, join committees, work in the classroom or help out in the office has the advantage of not only getting to know the teach-ers and instructional staff, but also the administra-tors as well. Even for parents who work, there are opportunities for them to be involved as well. If you would like more information about Durango School Dis-trict 9-R please visit our website at www.durangoschools.org or contact your neighbor-hood school principal for more information about their specific school. Each of our principals is extremely proud of their school and would love to tell you more about the educational opportunities available for your child. i

world-class education’

Q: What is the current Durango High School graduation rate?

A. 91%B. 75%C. 82%D. 71%

The average rate nationwide is at 69%, and the Colorado average is at 74%.

Answer: C, 82%

Pop Quiz:

1. Animas Valley Elementary: 272 students, 24 teachers

2. Durango High School: 1,322 students, 92 teachers

3. Escalante Middle: 501 students, 36 teachers

4. Florida Mesa Elementary: 312 students, 19 teachers

5. Fort Lewis Mesa Elementary: 170 students; 16 teachers

6. Miller Middle School: 500 students, 34 teachers

7. Needham Elementary: 375 students, 30 teachers

8. Park Elementary: 450 students, 30 teachers

9. Sunnyside Elementary: 163 students, 14 teachers

10. Riverview Elementary: 440 students, 34 teachers


Kindergarten-12th GradeDurango School District 9-R Serves the Durango community through 11 schools: one high school, two middle schools and seven elementary schools. Durango Big Picture High School (formerly, The Durango Academy) operates at 215 East 12th Street. For more information, visit www.durango schools.org or call (970) 247-5411.

Bayfield School District District 10 consists of one high school, one middle school, one elementary school and one primary. For information, visit www.bayfield.k12.co.us or call (970) 884-2496.

Ignacio School DistrictDistrict 11 consists of one high school, one junior high, one intermediate and one elementary school. For more information, visit www.ignacioschools.org or call (970) 563-0500.

Animas High SchoolThis is a public, free charter school in Durango offering a rigorous, personalized college prepara-tory curriculum that is engaging and meaningful. For more information, call 247-2474 or visit www. animashighschool.com.

Mountain Middle SchoolThis free, public, state chartered school is scheduled to open in August 2011. The school will provide education to sixth, seventh and eighth grade students, with a focus on integrat-ing technology into project-based learning in a safe environment. As of late January 2011, the board of directors was actively seeking a head of school and an appropriate building to house the school. MMS offers a lottery enrollment for students, which will close on Feb. 16 at midnight. For more information, visit: www.MountainMiddle School.org; read the blog at www.mms-durango.blogspot.com; or call (970) 335-8070.

Colleges

Fort Lewis College FLC is a four-year, fully accredited, liberal arts insti-tution overlooking Durango and the Animas Valley. For more information on current statistics and enrollment, call (970) 247-7010 or visit www.fortlewis.edu.

Fort Lewis College Continuing EducationThis program serves our community with exciting non-credit local and online classes. Local classes are held on campus in the evenings and on week-ends. Online classes can be taken any time from the convenience of your own home. For more informa-tion, call (970) 247-7385 or go to: continuinged.fortlewis.edu.

Southwest Colorado Community CollegeLocated in Mancos and Durango, this school offers area residents a community college education, including

EDUCATION

Fort Lewis College’s newest graduates celebrate May 1.NICK MANNING/ Herald photo

La Plata County Schools


several degree programs, evening classes and transferable credits to four-year schools. For more information for the Durango campus, call (970) 247-2929. For the Mancos campus, call (970) 564-6200 or visit www.pueblocc.edu.

Adult Education Center, Inc.Durango’s Adult Education Center offers a comfortable learning environment with friendly teachers for individual needs. Classes are available in GED, math, reading and English as a Second language (ESL). Free childcare is available. For more information call (970) 385-4354.

Pine River Community Learning CenterWith classrooms in Ignacio and Bayfield, the Center provides instruction in adult education, GED preparation and English as a Second Language. Also available is a resource program for families who homeschool, an early litera-cy family activity program and community computer, finance and work skills classes. Free childcare is also available. For more information, call (970) 563-0681 or visit www.prclc.org.

Head Start ProgramsDurango Four C Council Tri-County Head Start This program serves low-income, at-risk children in Archuleta, La Plata and Montezuma counties. For more information, call (970) 247-5960.

Southern Ute Head Start This program serves children up to age 5, along with their families. For additional information, call (970) 563-4566.

For complete information on schools in La Plata County visit www.laplatacountycolorado.org/education.

In the Know:Gigi DuthieDirector of Continuing Education at Fort Lewis College

’’Q: What should new residents

know about the Fort Lewis College Continuing Education program?

A: Fort Lewis College Continuing Education is a cash-funded department with a mission to provide access and opportunities for quality education in the Four Corners region. We strive to strengthen the connection between FLC and the community by linking students with the campus, instructors, faculty and one another. Our vision is to enrich and instill a desire for lifelong learning through campus and community outreach with continuing education courses and programs.


I believe I can fly

Snowboard competitor Josh Dearine grabs some

air at the Winterfest Freestyle Ski Jumping

Contest at Durango Mountain Resort on Jan. 15, 2011.


HEALTH&FITNESS Get out there &recreate

If you enjoy outdoor recreation, you’ll never be bored here. See if you can find your favorite sport in this puzzle.

Get out there &recreate

ACROSSThis sport allows people to enjoy trails in the winter without skis. (2 words) A type of Alpine skiing with the heel free that involves deep knee bends. This activity combines hiking and camping. (2 words) This sport takes place in or near a river and requires a specific casting technique. (2 words) Durango has been called a “mecca” for this sport because of the variety of fantastic singletrack trails. (2 words) Chapman Hill is the indoor site for this activity in the winter. (2 words) The goal of this sport is to move vertically and reach a summit. (2 words) This sport requires supportive shoes and strong lungs, and can be done on trails or roads. The only equipment required for this leisure activity is sturdy shoes or boots. You have to know how to roll while wearing a skirt in this river sport.

3 18 2

114

145

6

79

10

121315

16

17

18

19

202122

i Stay on the trail. Do not cut switchbacks or take shortcuts. i Stay to the right on wider paths. i Pass on the left. i When overtaking someone, let

them know you are approaching and will be passing on their left. i Whenever you stop for a view, a

rest or to yield, move off the trail so it is free for others. i Hikers or bikers going uphill are

working hard and should be given the right of way over people going downhill. i Greet people you meet. i When hiking in a group, hike

single file or take no more than half of a wide trail. i When meeting a

horse: Get off the trail on the downhill side. Horses

will tend to bolt uphill when spooked. Also, you waiting on

the uphill side looks more like a predator waiting to pounce. Quietly greet the rider and ask if you are OK where you are. Stand quietly while the horses pass. i Hike quietly. i Don’t leave any markers when

hiking off-trail. i Read trailhead guidelines. There

may be specific rules for the trail you are on. i If you pack it in, pack it out.

Don’t litter.i Take a picture. A pretty rock

or a bunch of flowers deserve to remain where they are. We have a

need for mementos of our adventures, but picture in your mind what the place would look like if the group

before you had taken what you are about to put in your pocket.

i Report vandalism. If there is contact

information at the trailhead, tell the managing agency about any destruction or manage-ment needs you notice.

Common GroundEtiquette on the trail

February 13, 2011 • 31

DOWNA style of rock climbing without a rope and limited to short climbs. A saddle is required for this activity. (2 words) The town of Ouray holds an international festival in January in this sport. (2 words)A type of Nordic skiing that involves a gliding motion across flat, groomed snow. (2 words) In this winter activity, you dig a hole and wait for dinner. (2 words) A winter sport that includes movements similar to surfing or skateboarding.In this type of skiing, you might find yourself in Hades or Limbo, or on the path of Salvation. Canine companions are needed for this winter sport. (2 words) Nordic skiing in groomed tracks. (2 words) People paddle together in this activity. In late summer, area lakes and rivers are usually warm enough to do this. Spandex clothing and smooth roads are hallmarks of this sport. (2 words)

See Recreation Crossword Solution, Page 35


Q: How does Durango compare with the rest of the U.S. when it comes to health and wellness?

A: Colorado is one of the healthiest states in the union. It was ranked 13th this year; it was 8th in 2009. Colorado is ranked No. 1 in physical activity (by per-cent of the adult population) and incidence of obesity. One of the challenges that Colorado faces is a low immunization rate, with only 85 percent of children ages 19 to 35 months receiving immu-nizations. The overall health of Colorado is also affected by rural residential areas because of long distances to care facilities.

Q: What are the health ben-efits of living in this region?

i Low levels of air pollutioni Low rate of preventable hospitalizationsi Low rates of cancer deaths and cardio-

vascular deathsi Lower prevalence of obesity than most

other statesIt doesn’t hurt that the sun shines over 300

days in the year. Q. What do you think is surprising to

newcomers about health and fitness in the Durango area?

A: Rain, snow or shine, people get off the couch and do some sort of recreational activity. It is a peer-pressure factor here: To fit in, you must own at least a bike and/or skis.

Q: What should newcomers know about living at high altitude?

A: Altitude sickness, also called mountain sickness, is an illness that occurs when the body is un-able to adjust to high elevations. Symptoms of mountain sickness range from a mild headache and fatigue to a life-threatening build-up of fluid in the lungs or brain.

Most people who have a chronic illness, such as heart or lung disease, can safely spend time at a high alti-tude if their disease is under control. People who have coronary artery disease, mild emphysema or high

blood pressure aren’t at greater risk of high-al-titude illness than people who don’t have these diseases. They also don’t risk making their disease worse by traveling to a high altitude. In addition, being overweight does not increase the risk of getting high-altitude illness.

Q: How does a sunny, high and dry climate affect the body, and how can newcomers adjust to it?

A: To maintain kissability you must have

SPF 15 lip balm in your pocket or purse at all times. Hydration is a large factor in how you feel in general. When move to our arid climate, your hydration need will increase. We are closer to the sun, so living here re-quires sunscreen use. It’s vital to your pleas-ant “Rocky Mountain High” attitude.

Q: What do former urban or suburban residents need to know about being active in the wilderness?

A: Use your common sense. There are great resources, such as guides you can read or classes you can take, to become familiar with your new surroundings. Never go at it alone in the wilderness if you are a beginner backpacker, kayaker, biker, etc. Let some-one know where you are going and what time you will be returning. A search and rescue mission can be costly for people who get lost. (See Page 35 for information on Colorado Outdoor Recreation Search And Rescue Card.)

Q: Is there anything else you think new-comers should know about health and fit-ness in our region?

A: Make new friends and develop a recreational hobby. There are so many av-enues and activities available – the choices are endless. You can go big with expensive equipment, or go small and enjoy the free outdoor beauty. i

HEALTH&FITNESS

Pulse Taking Durango’s

RN, BSN, was born and raised Durango. She is the owner of CorpStrength, Inc., a worksite wellness company.

Michelina Ceglia

Health coach answers key questions

Runners climb a hill along Sale

Barn Trail in Durango during the South Rim Duathlon. This

popular trail run and mountain

bike race features three different course lengths for individuals

and teams.Herald file

Hill thrill

Health coach answers key questions



HEALTH&FITNESS

Bike Town, U.S.A.Avid bikers around the country know that Durango and the surrounding area is a haven for great rides. There is an abundance of trails and scenic roads to match any riding ability. Here are a few suggestions to get you started on two wheels.

Many of the slang terms used in mountain biking come from the off-road motorcycling culture, BMX and road cycling. Some of the (numerous!) terms for “crash” came from skiing, snowboarding, surfing or skating. See if you can match these excerpts from The Dictionary of Mountain Bike Slang.

A. wild pigsB. organ donorC. endoD. pruneE. tea partyF. unobtaniumG. epicH. gravity checkI. bettyJ. bonkK. gutter bunnyL. boot

1. To run out of energy or grow exhausted on a ride.2. A fall.3. A female rider.4. A bicycling commuter.5. A ride that must last for at least six hours and include at least three mechanicals that add at least an extra hour to the ride time.6. Describing a bike or accessory made from expensive, high-tech material. 7. The maneuver of flying unexpect-edly over the handlebars, thus being

forcibly ejected from the bike. 8. Poorly adjusted brake pads that squeal in use.9. To expel pre-ride stomach fillers due to extreme physical exertion.10. When a whole group of riders stops and chats, and nobody seems to want to ride on.11. Someone who rides without a helmet. 12. To use one’s bike or helmet to remove leaves and branches from the surrounding flora. Usually unintentional.

Let’s Play... Bike Slang Mash-Up

Answers: 1.J, 2.H, 3.I, 4.K, 5.G, 6.F, 7.C, 8.A, 9.L, 10.E, 11.B, 12.D

Horse Gulch: This is probably the most accessible and used trail system around town, and after riding the area you’ll see why. The trails stay dry for much of the year, and there are many options. Horse Gulch is accessible from downtown Durango at the corner of 8th Avenue and 3rd Street. The jeep road climbs from the southeastern corner of town and eventually tapers off with views of a rugged, juniper-forested valley to the east, and a hill on the opposite side.

Baker’s Bridge: There are a couple of different routes to do this scenic loop. The most popular is to take Animas View Drive to CR 203. Once you reach the intersection before Trimble Hot Springs, take a right on CR 252, crossing Highway 550. Keep going until you reach CR 250, shortly after crossing the Animas River. Take a left and keep following the road until it reaches Baker’s Bridge. From there, head west until reaching Highway 550 again, then turn left, following the highway back into town.

Animas River Trail: This popular trail has approximately 5 miles of hard-surface trail running through town along the beautiful Animas River, with 2.7 additional miles planned for the future. The north end of this trail is the intersection of 32nd Avenue and East 2nd Avenue. It travels south through several city parks and across five bridges to the south end. In the summer, you can cruise alongside the train, or watch people in the river on rafts, kayaks and inner tubes.

San Juan Skyway: This ride will take you through some of the most beautiful sections of the Rocky Mountains as you follow a circular path through Southwest Colorado. You will pass through historic mining towns, national parks and forests and world-class ski resort areas. On this trip, you will see the San Juan Mountains, home to many of Colorado’s elite group of 14,000-foot mountain peaks. For a detailed map, visit www.byways.org/explore/byways/2101/travel.html.

MOUNTAIN

ROAD

MOTORCYCLE

CRUISER

Two events for two kinds of ‘iron horses’


One is a top athletic event for road bikers, and the other is a roaring, rumbling round-up of motorcyclists.

i Iron Horse Bicycle Classic: More than 2,000 cyclists enter this race, which is one of the largest bike races held in the United States. The 47-mile, 5,550- foot climb from Durango to Silverton is scheduled each year during Memorial Day weekend. Several races are held for all levels – from top pros to kids. For more infor-mation, visit www.ironhorse bicycleclassic.com.

i Sugar Pine Ranch Rally and Ignacio Bike Week (formerly Iron Horse Motorcycle Rally): Thousands of cyclists converge on the Durango area for events during Labor Day weekend. In 2010, festivities included a parade down Main Avenue.

A biker and canine friend

ride in the Durango

Motorcycle Parade on

Sept. 6. Herald file


Colorado residents and visitors are well served by dedicated volunteer search and rescue teams, but mission costs are often in the thousands of dollars. Colorado Outdoor Recreation Search and Rescue (CORSAR) cards will help reimburse many rescue expenses. The card costs for $3 for one year and $12 for five years, and can be purchased at the San Juan Public Lands Center in Durango or online at http://dola.colorado.gov/dlg/fa/sar/sar_purchase.html.

Recreation Crossword Solution From Page 31

Did you know? Wilderness rescues are costly


HEALTH&FITNESS

Animated Animas by the

Durango’s in-town river sees a lot of action in the summer. Rafters, kayakers, fishermen, tubers and swimmers all go with the flow, from the chocolate-milk color of whitewater to calm, green depths.

Kayakers race in June 2008 on the Animas River.

Tubing 101

JERRY McBRIDE/Herald photo.

1. The lower Animas, which runs through town, is rated as a Class III whitewater. These rapids in Santa Rita Park are often the highlight of raft trips.

2. Durango hosts international events in this Olympic whitewater event, in which athletes negotiate gates suspended over the river.

3. These majestic birds often spend the winter hunting along the Animas. (2 words)

4. In this event in June, boats perform acrobatic tricks and maneuvers in rough whitewater.

5. Colorado has over 9,000 miles of rivers and creeks, but only 168 miles are given this fishing designation – and the Animas has it. (2 words)

6. A term for a small, inflatable boat.

1. M E R T L S E

2. O L M A L S

3. D E L A G L E B A

4. D A K O A K R O Y E

5. D A L O M G E D L

6. K D Y U C

River JumbleLet’s Play...Unscramble the words to find the hidden answer to this question: What will you get if you participate in the Animas River Parade?

Answers: 1. smelter, 2. slalom, 3. bald eagle, 4. kayak rodeo, 5. gold medal, 6. ducky

When summer temperatures soar, locals head to the river to float. Keep these safety tips from the City of Durango in mind:

i A life vest and secure foot gear are recommended.

i You will encounter rocks, logs, man-made obstacles and strong currents. Know your limits, and be a strong swimmer.

i Do not float with glass containers or open containers of alcohol. Pack out all trash and dispose in a proper receptacle.

i Respect private property and do not trespass.

i Smelter Rapids in the Whitewater Park is for experi-enced boaters only and inner tubes are not recommended.

Herald file


One of the most common hazards of outdoor recreation in the mountains is altitude sickness, also known as Acute Mountain Sickness. Characterized by headaches and nausea, AMS can arise at relatively low elevations such as 9,000 feet, especially in people who are coming from sea level and are not yet used to high altitudes. It can also strike people who have previously been unaffected by high altitudes. AMS is not a function of conditioning: It can affect superbly-conditioned athletes as well as “weekend warriors.” You can prevent or lessen AMS by staying well hydrated and avoiding overexertion. Take regular snack, water and rest breaks while hiking. If you or one of your party begin experi-

encing AMS symptoms, the best cure is to descend to a lower elevation. Aspirin and water can help relieve headaches. AMS is not normally a life-threatening situation, but it can cause you to lose strength and coordination. In addition, there are more serious, even life-threatening high-alti-tude-related illnesses called High Altitude Pulmonary Edema and High Altitude Cerebral Edema. People planning high-altitude trips should become familiar with the warning signs for these conditions.

Adjust your altitude

ANIMALS


In the Know: Stacee SantiManaging veterinarian at Riverview Animal Hospital

A canine companion rides in style along the streets of Durango in July.

JERRY McBRIDE/ Herald photo

It beats walking

Durango area leash lawsDurango is a dog-friendly town, but for the safety of other people and your pet, there are leash laws in place. The City of Durango requires that all dogs be on a leash within city limits. Dogs may not be tethered along public streets. In La Plata County, the Durango Dog Park, the San Juan National Forest and Weminuche Wilderness Area, dogs are permitted to be off leash as long as they are within sight and under voice control. According to the Colorado Division of Wildlife, dogs harassing wildlife are a problem in our area, especially in the winter. Pet owners can be fined up to $275 for allowing their animals to chase wildlife. Anyone who sees a chase should call the local Colorado Division of Wildlife office, local animal control or other local law enforcement agencies. Cats also cause problems because they kill birds. Cat owners should put bells on collars and limit the amount of time cats spend outdoors during the day.

Durango Dog ParkThis is a great public place within the Durango city limits to take your dog to play. The Durango Dog Park is a 5-acre off-leash area that offers river access for dogs and plenty of space for them to run, roam and play. The area at the base of Smelter Mountain is equipped with pick-up bags and trash receptacles. Pedestrian access to the park is located along the Animas River Trail on the south side of Hwy 160 West, .1 mile west of the intersection of Hwy 160 and Hwy 550. No on-site parking is available at the Durango Dog Park, with the exception of one accessible parking space located roughly 300 feet west of the entrance. The designated parking areas are at Schneider Park on Roosa Avenue. You can walk to the dog park from Schneider Park using the Highway 160 underpath.

HikingDurango is an outdoorsy dog’s dream come true. There are thousands of miles of Colorado hiking trails surrounding Durango that are waiting to be explored by you and your dog. Horse Gulch Trail System, Vallecito Lake and the Colorado Trail are a few of the popular places to hike, roam and play. In addition to over 2,000 miles of hiking trails surrounding Durango, there are a couple of spots right in town that are perfect for you and your pet. The Animas River Trail is a paved trail that follows the Animas River for roughly 5 miles, winding in and out of parks and over several bridges. The north entrance to the trail is located at the intersection of 32nd Street and East Third Avenue, near the north City Market grocery store. This is also a popular “put in” for kayakers and rafters. The Animas River Trail’s south entrance is currently located near the Durango Mall along south Camino del Rio. Durango leash laws apply. Please keep leashes short, as this is also a busy trail for bikers.

Dogs rule, owners droolAlong with people who love Durango, our furry, four-legged residents delight in an outdoor paradise with forest areas and abundant trails. Here are a few things pet owners should know to keep companions safe.

’’Q: What should newcomers know about hazards and concerns

for pets in the Durango region, especially if they’re coming from an urban or suburban area?

A: The main risks that animals face in the Durango region are: i Encounters with wildlife (coyotes, deer, porcupines) that result in

mild to life-threatening injury.i Exposure to the bubonic and pneumonic plague (spread by fleas

and prairie dogs). Flea control is imperative in this area, as this disease can spread and be life-threatening to humans as well as animals.

i Injuries to the stifles (knees) and spines from overexercising during hiking and snow activities.

i Intestinal disease in the form of bacterial, parasitic infections and obstructions from eating carcasses.

Surprisingly we don’t see frostbite or other cold-weather diseases (other than occasional anti-freeze, which is a risk in all areas). I guess most people know to keep their pet warm in the winter. We have actually seen more overheating cases than cold-related.

DURANGOAlpine Animal Hospital“Companion” animals, 2910 Main Ave.(970) 247-5771www.AlpineAnimal Durango.com

Riverview Animal Hospital Dogs and cats, 670 S. Camino del Rio(970) 247-8545www.riverviewanimal.com

AspenTree Animal Caring Center of Durango Small animals only,42 CR 250, Suite 200Durango, CO 81301

(970) 382-0100

Baker’s Bridge Veterinary ClinicSmall animals only,13225 CR 250(970) 247-4701www.bakersbridgevetclinic.com

Durango Animal Hospital Small and exotic animals 2461 Main Ave.(970) 247-3174

Kindness Animal HospitalLarge and small animals,2424 Hwy. 172(970) 259-3788www.kindnessanimal.com

Southwest Veterinary ServiceLarge animals, horses, cattle and sheepP.O. Box 947 (970) 247-9414

BAYFIELDBayfield Animal HospitalSmall animals only,453 Pine St.(970) 884-2001

HESPERUSJen Kowalsi, DVMLarge animals,P.O. Box 130(970) 759-1310

MANCOSMancos Valley Animal HospitalSmall animals only, 299 Frontage Road(970) 533-1060

ANIMALS


Veterinary Services

DURANGO AREAi Animas Valley 4-H Club (120) –

a multi-project club. 385-7498.i Rock’n Riders 4-H Club (910) –

horse + other projects. 247-1811.i St. Columba 4-H Club (170) –

multi-project club. 385-8580.FLORIDA MESA/

SUNNYSIDE AREASi Country Roads 4-H Club (130) -

a multi-project club. 382-7710.i Florida Four Leaf 4-H Club (150)

- a multi project club. 259-4670. i Mountaineers 4-H Club (240)

- a multi-project club. 247-8582.i Weasel Skinners 4-H Club (180)

- a multi-project club. 259-3813.BAYFIELD AREAi Bayfield Riders (350) – a

multi-project club. 884-4444.i Pine River 4-H Club (310) - a

multi-project club. 884-9024. i Super Shooters – a multi-project

club. 779-8048.

For more general information on La Plata County 4-H, contact the La Plata County Extension Office at (970) 382-6463.

4-H Clubs in La Plata County

Hannah Carpenter competes in a 4-H horse show at the La Plata County Fairgrounds in August. Herald photo QQ

Q

ANIMAL WELFARE SERVICESQ QQQ

QQQQ



ANIMALS

In the Know:

Raccoons wait for relocation in a Durango back yard. They may look cute, but they have sharp teeth. A bite may carry the risk of rabies. Don’t entice them with pet food left outside.

Bandits caught

STEVE LEWIS/Herald photo

Wild Kingdom L A K N U K S K C U D N F E F S E E L R H C X E Y H O T L V D E R H U O G Z N G U I I G Z J S T R Y R E Q N U C L B A X T Z R O I V E A U C J N B E Z K A T A J U X V Y M K I A Y P C E A V C T Q E A N C A R K V E S O O G C G S U E S T T L I T O M R A M O M U B B N F E A H N D E M N P O E D S U F O X D O E M Q I X A N A D O Q M A F E N K H P R J G P B M A I L S V E C A D S D F J D R K H U Q Z N R R N R F C J N E X C Z B O B C A T S V D D B J E A N

BEARBEAVERBOBCATCHIPMUNKCOYOTEDEER

DUCKEAGLEELKFOXGOOSEMARMOT

RABBITRACCOONSKUNKSNAKESQUIRRELMOUNTAIN LION

For newcomers arriving from urban areas, our wildlife will either be interesting, exciting or a nuisance – or all of the above. As you settle in, or begin to look for a house here, remember that wildlife call it home, too. See if you can find the following wild locals. ’’

’’In the Four Corners area, we’re surrounded by open lands that provide important habitat for birds, reptiles, big game, small mammals and fish. When wildlife is abundant, it’s a good sign that the overall environment is healthy. We need to remember that while humans dominate the landscape, we are obligated to share the landscape with wildlife. New residents are often surprised – and sometimes worried – when they learn that bears, mountain lions, coyotes and bobcats live in the wild lands surrounding Durango. But there are absolutely no reasons to fear wildlife. Attacks on humans by wildlife are exceedingly rare. Animals prefer not to come in contact with humans. But do not feed wildlife – even chipmunks. Just like humans, animals are always looking for an easy meal. They can become habituated to humans quickly and cause conflicts in residential areas or campgrounds. There’s plenty of food for animals in the wild. Feed birds only during the winter months – Nov. 15 to April 15 – when bears are hibernating. While driving during low-light hours and at night, slow down and be aware that animals often cross roads – even in Durango’s city limits. Colorado’s wildlife is precious and an essential part of the environment. Enjoy it, and respect it.

Joe Lewandowski Public Information Specialist of Colorado Division of Wildlife, Southwest Region


Omnivore’s dilemmaBlack bears have discovered that humans

provide a menu of options, such as birdseed, fruit, pet food, barbecue grill scraps and trash.

Director of Bear Smart Durango

Bryan Peterson

In the Know:

L A K N U K S K C U D N F E F S E E L R H C X E Y H O T L V D E R H U O G Z N G U I I G Z J S T R Y R E Q N U C L B A X T Z R O I V E A U C J N B E Z K A T A J U X V Y M K I A Y P C E A V C T Q E A N C A R K V E S O O G C G S U E S T T L I T O M R A M O M U B B N F E A H N D E M N P O E D S U F O X D O E M Q I X A N A D O Q M A F E N K H P R J G P B M A I L S V E C A D S D F J D R K H U Q Z N R R N R F C J N E X C Z B O B C A T S V D D B J E A N

’’’’

Q: What’s the best piece of advice you would give a new resident about co-existing with bears?

A: We are fortunate to share prime habitat with wildlife, including black bears. It can be unfortunate, however, for either, when people and bears interact. Along with the privilege of living with wildlife comes the respon-sibility of modifying our behavior to not attract bears to where we live in the first place. Human-provided food brings bears to your home. Remove the foods, and you’ll remove the bear! Most importantly, bear-proof your trash and remove bird feeders during bear season.

ARTS&ENTERTAINMENT

A bull elk sculpture by Rip Caswell from 2006

scans the southern horizon from the edge of

the First National Bank parking lot. Durango

is full of interesting public sculptures. Many

of them can be viewed during a walk along the

Animas River Trail.



‘Exalted Ruler’

ACROSSLive music, films and events are shown in this theater, which has a full bar and comfy couches upstairs. The Durango Meltdown, Four Corners Folk Festival in Pagosa Springs and a festival in Telluride in June feature this type of live music. To kick off the winter holiday season, Santa leads a parade of people down Main Avenue to a giant tree lighting. What are the people doing as they walk?This golf course near Fort Lewis College becomes a cross-country ski area in the winter when there’s plenty of snow on the ground. Many summer events are held in this small park, which features a gold-and-white gazebo. An outdoor marketplace held on Saturdays in the First National Bank parking lot in the warm seasons that includes food, shopping and entertainment. (3 words) The Snowdown celebration in late January or early February includes two contests where you can dress up your ___ or ___. (2 words) This popular community facility has the only waterslide in town. The Durango Community ______ _________(2 words) A fundraiser for the Volunteers of America features an entire room filled with concoctions made with this sweet treat. These animals are “on parade” at various locations around Durango. At which restaurant in town is it perfectly OK to sweep your peanut shells off your table and onto the floor?

DOWNName of male statue near the Durango Arts Center.Former Harley-riding Republican senator who designs silver jewelry. (3 words) Four local businesses produce this – arguably the most popular beverage in Durango. Canoeing and kayaking competitions are held at Santa Rita’s whitewater park during this event in early June. Classical music concerts held in the summer under a tent at Durango Mountain Resort, often accompanied by thunder and thunderous applause. (4 words) Hangout popular with road bikers where you can buy a Chocolate Gulch or Sow Your Oats. Street festival held in downtown Durango in May featuring samples from many restaurants in the Durango area (3 words) This breakfast food served by the Kiwanis Club in September at the La Plata County Fairgrounds as a fundraiser for local children’s programs. Popular Durango entertainer known for cross-dressing. (2 words) An old-fashioned genre of theater popular with tourists in the summer that involves booing and hissing. You can see animals, ride a ferris wheel and eat a funnel cake during this event in August. (4 words) A giant, cartoonish Indian figure is located across the street from this gallery, which features Native American and Southwest art. (2 words) Ska Brewing Co. beer named after a hair color (2 words). In the summer, the D&SNG train briefly transforms into this beloved children’s-show character.

Fun& GamesTest your knowledge of region’s eclectic entertainment options

After you settle in to the Durango area and take care of basic needs, it’s time to step out and expose yourself.

You’ll want to keep your clothes on, of course, but take advantage of all there is to see and do here.

Swill suds or savor a symphony. Entertainment options range from highbrow to down-home – and sometimes downright silly. For example, in January you could dive into a giant vat of beer or go to dog and cat dress-up contests during Snowdown. In July, you could listen to some of the best musicians in the world play classical works at Music in the Mountains.

Durangoans love a good street festival. Every subculture is represented throughout the year, from cowboys (rodeo, Fiesta Days, Durango Cowboy Gathering); to earthy free spirits (Dandelion Festi-val, bluegrass concerts and more).

Get out there and sample it all!

2 1

53

7

4

6

8

9

10

1113

141516171822

1219

2021

23

24

25

See A&E Crossword solution, Page 51i



ARTS&ENTERTAINMENT

The Durango Public Library1900 East Third Ave.(970) 375-3380, www.durangopubliclibrary.orgThe Durango Public Library offers a wide variety of books, collections, public programming, current technology and services to assist its visitors. They are up-to-date on the informational, educational and cultural needs of the community. Closed Sundays from Memorial Day through Labor Day.

John F. Reed Library at Fort Lewis College1000 Rim Drive(970) 247-7250, www.library.fortlewis.eduThe library, located in the center of campus, actively supports the educational and liberal arts mission of Fort Lewis College while encouraging the use of information resources by students, faculty and staff of FLC, and residents of the Four Corners community.

Lavenia McCoy Public Library395 Bayfield Center Drive(970) 884-2222, www.pineriverlibrarydistrict.orgIn 2005, the Bayfield Public Library was renamed the Lavenia McCoy Public Library to honor the service of a woman who volunteered her time and skills over a 60-year period. Today, Mrs. McCoy acts as the library’s treasurer. The 8,200 square foot library includes a large public meeting room capable of seating 50, 15 public computers, two smaller conference rooms, a children’s area, com-fortable chairs for reading and a growing selection of books, magazines, audio and video materials.

Ignacio Community Library470 Goddard Avenue(970) 563-9287, www.ignaciolibrary.orgThe Ignacio Community Library offers access to the latest information including Internet access,

downloadable books, online telephone books, online tax forms, word processing, spreadsheets, résumé writing software, books, magazines, movies, children’s programs and provides a welcoming and comfortable place to explore the world.

Mancos Public Library211 W. First Street (970) 533-7600 The Mancos Public Library serves all members of the community and visitors alike, providing informational resources, entertainment materials and programs to nurture artistic creativity, literacy and to support lifelong learning.

Southwest Colorado Libraries

The Durango Public Library

hosts many events throughout the year, including lectures, films,

community meetings and

storytelling for children.

Herald photo

For information on other public libraries in the Southwest, visit www.directoryplus.com.


Locals know a secret about shopping downtown: Just a block away from busy Main Avenue, there’s a hidden jewel – East Second Avenue. This street has a hip, relaxed vibe. It’s filled with elegant restaurants, galleries and interesting shops for browsing. Make a point to stroll down the avenue in spring, when pink and white blossoms open on the crabapple trees.

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ARTS&ENTERTAINMENT

Feeling festive?

’’Durango will never get the kinds of acts that fill a 20,000-seat arena, but that doesn’t mean we’re in an artistic wasteland, either. Miley Cyrus does not an arts scene make. But if you’re paying attention, there are scores of talented artists and musicians working here every day, and from time to time we get lucky with a visiting act like Willie Nelson or the Beach Boys that can fit us into their travel plans. So pay attention.

Ted Holteen Durango Herald Arts & Entertainment EditorIn the Know:

Locals here will celebrate just about anything: beer, the train, cowboys, apples, the river, chocolate, beer (did we mention beer?) Add music and face painting and voila! It’s a party. Guess the name of the annual festival in this puzzle.

Independent and creative cinematic work is the focus of the Durango . (2 words)Merchants along Main Avenue in down-town Durango hold this special evening in December for holiday shoppers. The goal of the Durango (2 words), which takes place in early October, is to entertain and educate people about the Old West.Boots, hats and horses are common at this festival in early October, which includes a parade, poetry and music:

The Durango (2 words).You can eat bratwurst and drink beer, and possibly dance to the polka at this event held in the fall on Main Avenue.Special rides and historic train cars are the draw at this event, held in August. Turtle Lake Refuge, nonprofit that grows and promotes raw, local foods, honors this flower in May at the Festival. Local brewers band together at this beer-tasting event held at Durango Mountain Resort in August.

A mid-February event that will delight people with a sweet tooth. (2 words)

A festival held in January at Durango Mountain Resort with many activities involving fun in the snow.

Across8 1

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See Festival Crossword Solution, Page 51


Durangoans gather for the Family Festivo, a free event of music and drama held at Rotary Park

during the Music in the Mountains

festival in the summer.

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For other museums in the Southwest, visit www.directoryplus.com.

CORTEZCortez Cultural Center25 North Market St. (970) 565-1151www.cortezculturalcenter.org

Notah Dineh Museum345 West Main (970) 565-9607www.notahdineh.com

DOLORESAnasazi Heritage Center27501 U.S. Hwy 184 (970) 882-5600

The Galloping Goose Historical Society Museum Center of downtown Dolores(970) 882-7082

DURANGOAnimas Museum3065 W. 2nd Ave.(970) 259-2402www.animasmuseum.org

Center for Southwest Studies 1000 Rim Drive (970) 247-7456www.swcenter.fortlewis.edu

Durango Discovery MuseumOffice: 1333 Camino del Rio(970) 422-2034www.durangodiscovery.orgScheduled for opening in 2011.

The Durango & Silverton Narrow Gauge Railroad Museum 479 Main Ave. (970) 385-8854

IGNACIOSouthern Ute Indian Cultural Center and Museum(970) 563-9583.

MANCOSBartels Wagon and Stagecoach Museum4550 C.R. 41, (970) 533-9857 or (800) 365-3530

Chapin Mesa Archaeological Mu-seum at Mesa Verde National Park(970) 529-4465

PAGOSA SPRINGSFred Harman Art Museum85 Harman Park Drive (970) 731-5785www.harmanartmuseum.com

San Juan Historical Society MuseumCorner of 1st and Pagosa Street(970) 264-4424www.pagosamuseum.org/

SILVERTONOld Hundred Gold Mine721 C.R. 4-A(970) 387-5444 or (800) 872-3009www.minetour.com.

Mayflower Gold MillTwo miles Northeast of Silverton on Hwy 110. For information, call the San Juan County Museum at (970) 387-5838.

San Juan County Museum 1557 Greene St. (Next to the courthouse) (970) 387-5838

Northwestern New MexicoChaco Culture National HistoricalPark in Chaco CanyonFor maps and other information, call (505) 786-7014 ext. 221 or visit www.nps.gov/chcu/index.htm.

MuseumsSouthwest Colorado

This frame from a train seat can be seen at the D&SNG Museum.


A&E Crossword Solution From Page 45 Festivals Crossword Solution From Page 48


Boys & Girls Club of La Plata County2790 Main Avenue, DurangoThis is the place where “kids can have fun.” With more than 4,000 clubs worldwide, their mission is “to enable young people, especially those who need us most, to reach their full poten-tial as productive, caring and responsi-ble citizens.” There’s a gym, game area, computer room and multi-use room for art classes and homework. For more information, call (970) 375-0010.

Durango Nature StudiesDurango Nature Studies has been bringing hands-on, outdoor nature education to the Four Corners commu-nity since 1994. DNS offers school field trips, afterschool enrichment, an excellent summer camp, workshops, hikes and more. Call (970) 382-9244 or visit www.durangonaturestudies.org.

Colvig Silver Camps This residential family-owned summer camp offers outdoor education pro-grams for children in a non-competitive environment. For more information and schedules, call (970) 247-2564 or visit www.colvigsilvercamps.com.

Durango Arts Center802 E. 2nd AvenueThe center offers many opportunities for children to get involved with the arts and is a great way to build lasting friendships. While the emphasis is on education, it is a fun-filled environment. There are dance classes, as well as

afterschool art programs that inspire and motivate children. They get to express their feelings through the arts with song, drama and other media. For more information, contact the Durango Arts Center at (970) 259-2606 or visit www.durangoarts.org

Durango Discovery MuseumWhen completed, sometime in 2011, the old Powerhouse building will be the home of the Durango Discovery Museum, which merged with the Children’s Museum of Durango. Children and parents will find many unique and interesting things to see, as well as fun events to participate in. For information on the opening, call (970) 259-9234 or visit www. durangodiscovery.org.

The Durango Performing Arts Camp of ColoradoWith a venue at the base of the La Plata Mountains, the camp offers a unique experience for students ages 12 to 18. The program is designed to encourage and inspire students through the beauty of theater. The instructors are profes-sional and committed to making the experience a one-of-a-kind adventure. For more information, call Durango Arts Center at (970) 259-2606.

Durango Recreation Center2700 Main AvenueWith 71,557 square feet, the Durango Community Recreation Center is a facility boasting an aquatic area with a lap pool, leisure pool and hot tub;

a fitness area with cardio equipment, a room for aerobics/dance classes, gymnasium with basketball courts, indoor track, climbing wall, racquet-ball courts, café, daycare center and more. Call (970) 375-7300 for more information.

Durango Skate ParkThe facility offers varied terrain that will challenge all skaters and abilities. Located on the west side of the river on Roosa Avenue, friendly locals share a common passion for all things skate, making it a must for both resident skaters and visitors.

Forest Keepers The Forest Keepers Junior Rangers Programs with San Juan Mountains Association is a ranger program for children ages 4 to 12, offering activities such as watching wildlife, nature sketches, solving “history myster-ies” and more. Activities are divided into age groups. For information, call (970) 385-1210 visit www.sjma.org.

Trimble Hot SpringsLocated north of town on County Road 203, the springs are a great way to relax and soak up the sun. There is an Olympic-size swimming pool as well as the hot springs. This is a fun environment for the whole family to enjoy. Open year-round, it’s a local’s favorite. Closed Wednesdays in the winter, Christmas and Thanksgiving. Call (970) 247-0111 for more informa-tion including hours of operation.

Fun for KidsDurango-area children and teenagers have access to wilderness activities, but there are also many programs geared to their interests throughout the year. Here is a sampling of the options.

’’My advice to a teenage newcomer in Durango would be to get a job downtown, specifically a coffee shop or restaurant. Tons of people go into the Steaming Bean, Durango Coffee Company and Durango Joe’s every day, especially young people. These places also seem to have plenty of college-age employees. By working at one of these spots, you could meet people in so many different ways. Also, the bulletin boards in coffee shops are always full of local social events and such: There is never a shortage of activities in this town! If getting a job doesn’t prove to be successful, just be a customer at these places, meet people and learn about the town from that angle instead.

Kate McElwain 17, co-head editor of El Diablo at Durango High SchoolIn the Know:

Look, ma: no feet!A teenager enjoys a fine spring day at the Durango Skate Park.

Thomas the Tank Engine waits to be adored at the D&SNG train station.

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Aaah Day Spa ................................................ 43Alpine Animal Hospital ................................. 39Amerigas ........................................................ 56 Animas Surgical Hospital .............................. 35 Annie’s Orphans ............................................. 41April’s Garden ................................................ 53Aspen Design Studio...................................... 23 Bank of Colorado ........................................... 55Budget Blinds................................................. 23Buzztown ....................................................... 51Crown Executive Travel ................................ 9Cyprus Café ................................................... 47Directory Plus ................................................ 25Dogsters Spay & Neuter Program .................. 41Durango Business Improvement District ....... 9Durango Herald Small Press .......................... 23Durango Living, Spring Edition .................... 54 Durango Sewing Center ................................. 21Durango Sports Club...................................... 37Economy Nissan Inc. ..................................... 7Eno Wine & Coffee Bar ................................. 47First National Bank of Durango ..................... 29Florida Presbyterian Church .......................... 27Habitat ReStore .............................................. 21Ignacio Chamber of Commerce ..................... 27La Plata County Humane Society .................. 41La Plata Electric Association ......................... 39Mercy Regional Medical Center .................... 37 Mountain West Insurance & Financial ........... 15Mutu’s Italian Kitchen ................................... 47Pediatric Partners of the Southwest ............... 33Region 9 Economic Development District .... 19Rocky Mountain High .................................... 19Southwest Appliance ...................................... 50Southwest Women’s Health Associates ......... 35Spaaah Shop ................................................... 49Spring Creek Horse Rescue ........................... 41St. Columba Church ....................................... 54St. Mark’s Episcopal Church ......................... 53Storyteller Theaters Corporation .................... 49Three Springs Properties Group ..................... 2

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