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FREE May 30, 2019

Vol. XVIII, No. 22 durangotelegraph.com

inside

T H E

O R I G I N A L

I N D I E

W E E K L Y

L I N E

O N

D U R A N G O

B E Y O N D

Call of the wild

Wet and wild

Outside the box

Trying to tackle bears before they become problems p8

Rainy season offers rare glimpse of desertâ€™s other side p10-11

Dennis Elkins stages edgy one-man show at DAC p12

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The second-best thing to being there ... Issue 8 is out now. Wherever you find the Telegraph or at www.gulchmag.com. To find out about advertising opportunities, email: steve@gulchmag.com

2 n May 30, 2019

telegraph

lineup

4 La Vida Local

Bearing down Wildlife officials push for lifting electric fence ban to keep bruins at bay

4 Thumbin’ It

by Tracy Chamberlin

5 Word on the Street

10-11

6-7 Soapbox

Watered down

9 Mountain Town News

Following the rush of recent storms, desert landscapes are awash with life

10-11 Day in the Life

photos by Stephen Eginoire

14 Top Shelf

15-16 On the Town

Compartmentalized Former FLC Theater director returns for one-man benefit show

17 Ask Rachel

by Zach Hively

18 Free Will Astrology

19 Classifieds

Off the rails

19 Haiku Movie Review

Blues train, Railroad Earther and doing some heavy lifting by Chris Aaland

On the cover: Andrew Temple laces up for an icy and dicey section of Potosi Peak in the Sneffels Range last week./ Photo by Stephen Eginoire In regards to last week’s cover photo of a muddy bike tire, the Telegraph neglected to remind folks that riding on muddy trails is a big faux pas. Not only does it ruin your $4,000 ride, but it wrecks the trails for everyone else. Don’t be that guy.

Super soaked All forward as Animas River Days descends on Santa Rita Park

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EDITORIALISTA: Missy Votel (missy@durangotelegraph.com)

STAR-STUDDED CAST: Lainie Maxson, Chris Aaland, Clint Reid, Stephen Eginoire, Jesse Anderson, Zach Hively, Tracy Chamberlin and Shan Wells

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friend or dog, we will accept full responsibility in a public flogging in the following week’s issue. Although “free but not easy,” we can be plied with schwag, booze and flattery.

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

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telegraph

Ear to the ground: “I worked with a guy who would come to the door with his pants undone.” – One approach to unwanted solicitors

Tough to swallow

thepole

RegularOccurrences

Astute readers may recall a story in 2016 on the debut of Patagonia beer, a collaboration between New Belgium and everyone’s favorite fleece maker. Even more astute beer drinkers may have noticed a suspicious “Patagonia Cerveza” lurking at local liquor and grocery stores. Here’s where the foam thickens. That newest iteration, with the mountain logo that kinda sorta vaguely resembles Patagonia’s trademark Fitz Roy skyline, is in fact a product from none other than Anheuser Busch. That’s right. Before you snatch up a sixer thinking you’re going to get warm buzzies from a sustainably minded B-Corp., think again. Apparently, AB trademarked the “Patagonia” beer name in 2012. AB acquired the name from a South American company, Patagonia Brewing Co., which was the Americanbranded name of an Argentinian beer Cerveza Patagonia, which launched in 2008. Shortly after releasing their beer, Patagonia and New Belgium quietly removed it from shelves upon receiving a cease and desist from AB. But now it seems Patagonia is having a hard time swallowing AB’s marketing campaign for the like-named brew. In addition to holding “pop ups” in ski towns featuring black-puffy-clad employees with “Patagonia” emblazoned across their chests, the brand also pledges to plant a tree for every case sold. (Strangely, amid the green-washing, there is no mention that in 2018, AB spent $1.3 million on campaign contributions, the vast majority of which went to anti-climate-change Republican PACs and candidates.) Naturally, fans of the real Patagonia began to smell something fouler than last week’s Capilene. Before long, the powers that be at Patagonia got wind and filed suit against AB. The outdoor retailer alleges AB is deliberately trying to confuse beer drinkers – who tend to be easily confused – and profiting off Patagonia’s earth-friendly reputation. “They are deliberately attempting to take advantage of the hard-earned reputation that we have built over the last 40 years,” Patagonia spokesperson Corley Kenna told Outside magazine. In addition, Patagonia claims that the U.S. trademark was procured illegally. For its part, AB says the lawsuit is without merit. But the law may be on the underdog underwearmaker’s side. The litmus test for trademark infringement is whether consumers are likely to be confused, for which screenshots should supply ample evidence. Additionally, AB may be guilty on grounds of dilution (unfortunately we’re not talking watered down beer, although that should be a crime.) In the legal sense, dilution refers to using a nearly identical logo that diminishes the plaintiff’s mark and tarnishes its reputation. To judge for yourself, check out Patagonia Cerveza’s marketing clip: www.youtube.com/ watch?time_continue=18&v=vBSOFVXi2ag. In the meantime, if all this leaves a bad taste in your mouth, wash it down with Patagonia’s new beer, Long Root Wit. May 30, 2019 n

opinion

LaVidaLocal Listening to The Desert (and Mr. Rogers) As I start to write this piece, wishing I was back out in the desert, I’m sorting through a flash flood of memories from the last month. I started my book tour for my last “dirtbag climbing book” called The Desert, and I’ve not only been inspired by the desert itself, but by others who have helped me expand my understanding and point of view for the place we hope to someday again call Bears Ears National Monument. Not long ago I was lost. Lost and angry. I am still angry, but I am no longer lost. I found a home in words. Built the foundation with an outline. Made walls out of sentences, and a living room out of paragraphs. When the story was complete, I had a roof over my head. Originally this book project that became The Desert was going to be a fiction book set in a world where Trump was elected president; with an emphasis on what would happen to public lands if that happened. Instead it became a nonfiction book, and the issue of Bears Ears National Monument is a central theme. I wanted to find a place for my anger other than it boiling up inside, and I also wanted to write something that I’d be proud of in 20 years. I wanted to say that I said something; I wanted to be sure that I sang the praises of a landscape that had given me so much. The first three stops of the book tour have been incredible. My expectations have been exceeded at each one, and the turnout makes me realize that my voice is not just my own; I speak for a large group of people who value this place and desire for it to be protected. In the middle of this tour I had the honor to be able to be an audience member at a presentation by Regina Lopez-Whiteskunk at the Durango Public Library. While I’ve been following the Bears Ears issue for a long time, I learned a lot from her presentation, and her work as a part of the Bears Ears Inter-Tribal Coalition. She spoke of the healing that the council members from that group wanted to happen amongst their tribes, and she spoke of the pain after the designation was rescinded. Lopez-Whiteskunk, who is from the Ute Mountain Ute tribe, spoke for nearly two hours on Bears Ears. While I usually have a short attention span, I was captivated by her presentation and her commitment to protect this

landscape. Big thanks to the local library and to all the folks who brought her to town! At the end of her presentation, Lopez-Whiteskunk noted the importance of the public voicing their opinions about Bears Ears – even in the smallest of ways – whether that be an editorial in the paper, writing a poem, or contacting their local representatives. The good people of Durango also came out to support me during my presentation at Pine Needle Dry Goods a couple weeks ago. True to Durango, only about a third of the crowd was on time, which nearly gave me a heart attack, but folks kept coming in, even an hour and a half into the official starting time. There were many friendly faces and new friends, all brought together for the love of climbing and the love of our beloved desert. The desert has been rainy this season, but last weekend I finally snuck out with my love, and despite it being a holiday weekend, we found some much-needed solitude amongst the red rocks. We hiked and climbed and were in pure amazement by the flowers that are still blooming. Usually this time of year it’s that type of heat that makes one dizzy and light-headed, but this season has been wet and cool; an extended bliss. When we got home, we had that rare feeling of satisfaction; that we didn’t need to do anything but get cleaned up and chill. We queued up the new documentary about Mr. Rogers called “Won’t You Be My Neighbor.” I’d heard the buzz about this documentary from the film festival circuit, and of course, as a Gen X-er, I grew up with Mr. Rogers. But I didn’t realize how much of a kind-hearted genius he was, and how much he meant to so many kids and adults alike. It’s hard to summarize this film – I’ll just say you have to see it – but it inspired me very deeply. There’s something about people who care about other people and who commit to doing the right thing with their lives. Mr. Rogers cared about children, and he understood child development. Our generation is the better because of it. The spring book tour for The Desert ends next week, with stops in Salt Lake City and Telluride. I’ll be honoring fallen friends, and landscapes that changed me and still feed my soul; inviting as many people as possible into a house that words built. Word!

Sign of the Downfall:

Thumbin’It Local environmental groups continuing to fight the good fight against the disastrous Village at Wolf Creek and filing a lawsuit challenging the Forest Service’s latest decision to allow road access Durango representing at last weekend’s Iron Horse, with locals dominating both the road and mountain bike race podiums The EPA finalizing the Bonita Peak Superfund clean-up plan, with work set to begin this summer

4 n May 30, 2019

– Luke Mehall

Dissocial Media Disappointing and perplexing sales tax numbers despite the banner snow year, with the Central Business District down 3.1 percent for March and flat year-to-date over 2018 What’s shaping up to be the deadliest season on Mount Everest ever, with 11 deaths so far, with many veteran mountaineers chalking it up to inexperience and overcrowding Too much of a good thing, with unseasonably deep snow threatening Silverton’s summer economy with the potential to shut down the Hardrock 100 and hinder opening of the popular Alpine Loop

telegraph

Connecticut resident Jose Simms, who had seven outstanding warrants, saw his own wanted poster on the local police department’s Facebook page, so he decided to turn himself in. He messaged the police through Facebook and said he’d surrender when the post got 20K “likes.” The police talked Simms down to 15K to keep him on the line (they’d probably seen it in movies), and he agreed. However, after 19K “likes,” Simms is still hiding out somewhere in New York, because the police in Connecticut obviously aren’t serious.

WordontheStreet

With cold, wet weather delaying this spring’s run-off on the Animas, the Telegraph asked, “How high do you think the river is going to get?”

“10,000.”

Ashlie Ruggles

“High water is scary. I’m going to wear my life jacket.”

Liam Staub

“I still think it’s going to hit 7,000."

Ben Cesario

“Not high enough.”

“I’ll be surprised if it doesn’t get over 7,500 cfs.” Shawn Haught

Vana John

telegraph

May 30, 2019 n 5

SoapBox

ReTooned/by Shan Wells

The conservation scorecards are in To the editor, The League of Conservation Voters tracks the votes of our legislators and publishes a scorecard each year. It’s a way to advocate for sound environmental laws and hold elected officials accountable for their votes and actions. Zero is the lowest score possible, 100 the highest in standing up for a clean, healthy environment. Sen. Cory Gardner’s scorecard in 2018: 7 percent of the time he was an environmental champion. (So far in 2019 his score is 0 percent.) Rep. Scott Tipton: 9 percent. Sen. Michael Bennet: 100 percent. Sen. Gardner and Rep. Tipton are both up for re-election next year. – Jo Ann Kopke, Bayfield

Fruitful season at the state Capitol To the editor, Legislators passed many great bills this session, and I am proud to add several of my own to that lineup, all of which passed with bipartisan support. • HB19-1262: State Funding for Full-Day Kindergarten - Many districts already offer full-day kindergarten, but at a great expense to either the district or the parents. This bill frees up money for both, while also offering 5,000 more preschool slots for at-risk children. • HB19-1113: Protect Water Quality Adverse Mining Impacts - Taxpayers will no longer have to pay when a mine files for bankruptcy. This is good for our environment and water, while keeping the mining industry moving forward. • HB19-1006: Wildfire Mitigation Wildland-Urban Interface Areas - This bill adds funding to help homeowners prepare their property for fire suppression. • SB19-009: Financial Incentives for Rural Educators -4

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This bill modifies and expands a current law offering stipends of up to $6,000 to educators who agree to teach in a rural school for at least two years. • HB19-1002: Leadership Professional Development for School Principals - This bill creates a program to identify high-quality principals who can act as mentors and provide leadership development to other principals. Many teachers leave the teaching profession because they want better leadership. • HB19-1202: Food Systems Advisory Council - The bill matches up food producers with consumers & provides research on food & nutrition assistance, market development, farm-to-school programs & institutional procurement. • SB19-020-Wildland Fire Airspace Patrol System: This will help ensure airspace is clear above wildfires and give our firefighters the tools they need to keep our homes, communities and themselves safe. This creates a study on methods to monitor airspace above wildfires to ensure they are clear of drones and other civilian aircraft. • SB19-246: Public School Funding - This bill pays down state school districts’ budget stabilization factor by $100 million; funds rural schools an extra $20 million; increases funds by $20 million for Tier B special education students; and changes funding for English-learning students, focusing on those who need it most. • SB19-190: Teacher Preparation Program Support The bill adopts guidelines and best practices for teacher preparation programs, providing stipends for supervising teachers, extending student teaching to one year and requiring all educators be trained in how to teach reading. • SB19-010: Professional Behavioral Health Services for Schools - This bill, funded with money from the marijuana cash fund, adds mental health services to the list of grants available to educators. • SB19-007: Prevent Sexual Misconduct at Higher Ed Campuses - Each Colorado institution of higher education is now required to adopt, review and update a policy on sexual misconduct. The bill establishes minimum re-

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quirements, including reporting options, procedures and protections. Institutions will promote the policy by posting information on their websites, distributing policy information and providing training on awareness and prevention of sexual misconduct. • SB19-003: Educator Loan Forgiveness Program - This bill establishes a program to help principals, educators and special service providers pay their college loans. They must contract to work in a rural school or in a subject of high need, such as math, science, special education or foreign languages. Educators may receive up to $5,000 for each year of employment for up to five years. • HB19-1051: Colorado Department of Public Safety Human Trafficking-Related Training: This bill provides human trafficking training to law enforcement, organizations that provide services to victims, school personnel and parents, and any other entity that may benefit. • HB19-1186: School Employment Background Check Clarification – Currently in many areas, only private firms offer background checks for employment applicants in school districts. This bill allows checks to be offered by a qualified law enforcement agency, an authorized employee or any third-party vendor within 20 miles of a school. • SB19-018: Commercial Motor Vehicle Driver Age This bill decreases the age for obtaining a commercial driver’s license from 21 to 18. This offers good-paying jobs for high school graduates and helps with the drastic truck driver shortage in Colorado. • HB19-1254: Notice Requirements Employees Sharing Gratuities - This bill clarifies that if a business requires its employees to share gratuities, that each patron be notified of this in writing either on the menu, receipt or table. Customers will have clearer notice of where their money is going. We stepped up and delivered real results this legislative session and it’s an honor to serve this district. – Rep. Barbara McLachlan, D-Durango

Donald Trump’s endless IRS audit

To the editor, Thanks for all who paid taxes in 2018. After reading information on the new proposed tax change, it’s just crazy. Sen. Ted Cruz along with 29 GOP co-sponsors has called to abolish the IRS. With the audits for the wealthy 1 percent decreasing from 8 percent in 2011 to just 2.5 percent in 2017, I guess it’s a way to make America great again. Revenue from audits in 2010 were $5.1 billion, and audits in 2017 $1.9 billion. That is not a very good way to pay down the debt. I guess that’s why Trump says he is under audit. By law, he still can show us his taxes even under audit – an audit lasting over two years. Come on, the IRS has dedicated workers. I hope Trump pays his taxes, and so do his grown children Don Jr., Ivanka and Eric, who are always in the limelight working for daddy in some way. Read, read, read … you will see for yourself. – Bob Battani, Durango

Pasternak’s Artifact Near the end of pages, after the years of yearning, he sees her in the crowd. His heart races! He jumps from the tram, running toward her. She melds in the crowd. He falls. His heart shatters like fine crystal on stone, leaving only shards to be swept into the gutter of indifference.

– Burt Baldwin, Ignacio

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telegraph

May 30, 2019 n 7

TopStory

Call of the wild CPW, City look for ways to tackle human-bear conflicts before they start by Tracy Chamberlin

lack bears are emerging from their dens this spring to a very different world than the one they fell asleep in. This winter’s historic snowfall – much of which continues to fall in the higher elevations – brought needed moisture to the dry landscape. The one concern with such cool temperatures this late in the season, however, is the threat of a hard frost. It could wipe out the bear’s natural source of food – acorns and chokecherries – making it even more likely they’ll seek out needed calories in local dumpsters and trash cans. “We’ve been right on the razor’s edge, but we haven’t had that killing frost,” Matt Thorpe, area wildlife manager with Colorado Parks and Wildlife, said Tuesday. “We’re definitely keeping an eye out.” The last time a late frost took out those natural foods was 2017. That year, bears were spotted all over town, breaking into homes, cars, dumpsters, trash cans and back yards. By the time the bears denned that winter, the area recorded one of its highest bear mortality rates – 25 within the city limits and another 11 in La Plata County. In an attempt to deter bears from coming into the city for food, the Durango City Council approved an emergency ordinance that fall, increasing the penalties for city residents who did not properly secure trash cans. Researchers with Colorado Parks and Wildlife found during a six-year bear study that having – and properly using – bear-resistant trash cans dramatically decreased bear sightings and conflicts. With those facts on the table, the city has been distributing bear-resistant cans for the past several years to all residents. As Phase II of that campaign, fully automated containers are now being delivered to westside neighborhoods, from Ella Vita Court to West 23rd Street, and Columbine Drive to the south side of Arroyo Drive between Highland and Main avenues. These new containers – which come with a $4.12 monthly charge for those who don’t already pay for bear-resistant trash cans – unlock automatically when tipped upside down by the city’s trash collection truck, and lock again once they’re back on the ground. According to Bryan Peterson, executive director for Bear Smart Durango, the benefit is that the can no longer needs to be unlocked by residents on the day of collection or the night before – which, unfortunately, left plenty of time for bears to rummage through the trash. Garbage, whether from a residential can or commercial dumpster – is the top attractant for bears. Coming in at a not-to-distant second, however, are chickens. Currently, city residents are allowed to keep chickens, but they are not allowed to have electric fencing to protect the chickens from predators. In 2017, when bear-human conflicts were a real concern for residents, Peterson wrote the City Council, asking it to reconsider the ban on electric fencing, but councilors chose not to have the conversation at that time. This year, after being contacted by residents, Thorpe reached out to Council again about the issue. He said CPW

As bears awake from their winter nap, local wildlife experts and the City are working to keep them from becoming problem bears with new automated bear-resistant cans as well as a new tracking app./ File photo would be happy to participate in any discussions, answer questions or address concerns. “Electric fencing is one of the most effective ways to deter bears,” he explained. “It’s one of those things that’s on duty 24 hours a day.” City Councilor Kim Baxter was also contacted by residents about having the discussion, and said she’s certainly open to the idea. It’s uncertain why electric fencing was prohibited in the first place, but Baxter, like others, thought it could be a safety issue. She added that electric fencing has changed over time, and become far safer than it was even just five years ago. There’s nothing on the Council’s schedule right now, but it likely will be part of a future study session. As wildlife officials discuss ways to deter bears from coming into urban areas, they’re also looking to remind residents how important it is to report any sightings or conflicts. Peterson said a lot of people have a perception that if they report bear activity, the bear will “get in trouble.” The truth is, if a resident sees a bear and doesn’t report it, by the time CPW officials get involved options for dealing with the situation are far more limited. “The main problem (in 2017) was the first time CPW was hearing about it was when the bears were breaking into houses,” Peterson said.

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8 n May 30, 2019

Thorpe said when bear activity is reported, the agency has several ways to deter the bear. Once the bear is breaking into cars or homes, though, it’s a different story. “We just don’t have many options at that point,” he added. This year, the CPW will have another tool when it comes to addressing human-bear conflicts. In years past, CPW officials would file bear sightings and reports on paper. Not only does that create quite a stack, but it’s difficult to track hot spots. This year, the CPW will be using new technology that allows officials to submit reports to an electronic database that can be accessed on smart phones. This new system will create a map of sightings and hot spots. Eventually, Thorpe said, they hope to include reports submitted to Bear Smart Durango and the city’s Living with Wildlife Advisory Board, and even expand it so residents can access some of the general information. In addition to the new database, Thorpe said the CPW is bringing on a bear intern, whose main focus will be all things bear. “By having this position, hopefully we can be more proactive and increase engagement with the community,” he explained. So far this year, Thorpe said CPW has had few calls about bear activity, which he thinks is a good sign. “With all this moisture everything looks awesome right now,” Peterson explained. “Maybe it’s still too early to tell, but it might be another banner year for food.” n

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MountainTownNews New Eagle River Park adds to amenities EAGLE – Eagle continues its transformation from a ranching center to that of an amenity-laden mountain town, this time with the addition of a river park. Residents of the town of 7,000 people, which is a half-hour downvalley from Vail, approved a half-cent sales tax for four years, long enough to raise $5.8 million. The money was used to reconfigure the Eagle River with concrete blocks, the better to raise water levels and continue the boating season for kayakers and other rivers users. Originally, points out Mayor Anne McKibbin, an archaeologist by profession, the river had meandered more leisurely. When Interstate 70 was constructed in the late 1970s, the river was pushed about 100 yards away from bluffs and toward the town, causing it to flow straighter and hence more rapidly. Water parks have become the rage in Colorado. Vail and Durango were among the first. Breckenridge, Glenwood Springs and perhaps two-dozen others have followed. In some instances, the river parks reflect a new recognition of the value of rivers, assets that were long ignored or at least relegated to industrial necessities, much like water and sewage treatment plants. In Eagle, the park takes the space that was long dedicated to parking by long-haul 18-wheelers. In Steamboat Springs, an eponymously named street along the Yampa River was formerly occupied by businesses, such as the local electrical co-operative. Now, the river street is almost as lively as the main street. Several restaurants offer river-side dining. You can still see rivers ignored. One striking case is at Durango. It has a lovely river-side park favored by boaters. But down-stream a mile, giant big-box retailers are built almost to the edge of the riparian area – with only the delivery doors fronting the lovely Animas River. Eagle sees this river park as a central feature for future development. The town, says McKibbin, a river rafter herself, cannot dictate what the owner of the largely undeveloped property along the south bank of the river can do. But if they chose to develop, the town sees multi-family housing overlooking the river. Celebrating Eagle’s achievement was Jon Stavney, director of the Northwest Colorado Council of Governments. Earlier in his career, he was a town trustee, mayor and town manager for Eagle during a time when Eagle was reimagining itself. “A river is a placemaking and economic development opportunity,” he observed in an op-ed in the Vail Daily. In 2014, as Eagle began imagining the river park, he and other town leaders traveled to Salida, which has hosted the FibArk river festival along the Arkansas River since 1969. Some businesses have completely flipped their front doors away from F Street, the town’s main corridor, to the river and a new pedestrian corridor. In Golden, where Clear Creek emerges from the foothills into metropolitan Denver, improvements “changed an overgrown stormwater chute into a vital pedestrian corridor that enhanced and activated adjacent properties and connected disparate parts of the city,” he wrote.

Records tumble in winter of big snow SALT LAKE CITY, Utah – It snowed last winter in places where it didn’t the year before, making all the difference in the world. Colorado’s San Juan Mountains were the very definition of parched last year. But the snowpack as of May 23 stood at 374 percent of average for that date. In Silverton, organizers of the Hardrock 100, an endurance race at an average elevation of 11,000 feet, were hedging their bets whether the event, which is scheduled for July 19-21, will be possible. Dale Garland, run director, said he and others are “cautiously optimistic.” The race was canceled in 1995 because of too much snow and in 2002 because of too much smoke from the Missionary Ridge Fire. This year, the road to Animas Forks, a one-time mining hamlet at tree line, was covered as of last week with 100 feet of snow. Avalanches may have torn out other sections of backcountry trail. The Gunnison River drainage also had a huge amount of snow for late May, 334 percent of average for May 23. At Crested Butte, this meant no driving across Kebler Pass to Paonia or Aspen. “Typically we get it open by Memorial Day weekend,” Gunnison County commissioner Jonathan Houck told the Crested Butte News. “This was not a typical winter.” Across the Elk Range at Aspen, economic records tumbled during

the winter. December started slow, a hangover from last year’s drought, but then retail sales from January through March rose 5.9 percent from the previous year. March was a bonanza, with a total take of $95.8 million, a record, reported the Aspen Daily News. This was all about the skiing economy, of course. Occupancy for the ski season was 61.7 percent, according to Destrimetrics, the resort tracking firm. Jeff Hanle, spokesman for Aspen Skiing Co., said snow was the major story, although inauguration of Alterra Mountain Co.’s Ikon Pass did help push numbers higher, he said. In Utah, the Ikon Pass may have had something to do with record numbers, but Nathan Rafferty, who heads the state trade organization, pointed to a more certain suspect: snow. “We have a saying in the ski industry: ‘It’s the snow, stupid,’ when we all sit around and think we’re the most brilliant marketers and have got it all figured out,” Rafferty said at a press conference covered by The Park Record. Utah, through last week, had topped 5.1 million skier days, a record, and also a 24 percent increase over the prior, snow-short winter. It 2000-01, just as the state was gearing up for the Olympics, it was below 3.3 million skier days.

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Student pressure leads to a bag ban STEAMBOAT SPRINGS – Steamboat Springs has joined eight other towns and cities in Colorado in banning single-use disposable bags. The ban that takes effect Oct. 1 will be applicable to four large stores in Steamboat, those of more than 10,000 square feet in size. The stores can provide paper bags at 20 cents a bag. Council members, reported the Steamboat Today, agreed that that’s just enough to get people to start taking reusable bags. The fees collected will be used to support a new waste-diversion outreach program, but some money will be used to give out reusable bags for free. Property management companies already provide such bags in units. Stores can retain 5 cents of each bag fee. The council’s action was pushed by high school students during the last year.

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New tire requirements for I-70 traffic SILVER PLUME – Colorado has a new law that boosts the requirements of vehicles driving on Interstate 70 during winter. The old law said 1/8th-inch tread was sufficient. The new law, which was signed by Colorado Gov. Jared Polis at the EisenhowerJohnson Memorial Tunnel recently, requires a minimum of 3/16th, along with all-wheel drive. Legislators who proposed the law say it will improve safety and reduce traffic jams. Traffic on I-70 has steadily increased, somewhat proportionate to the population of Colorado. This compounds the problems during winter storms, when cars lose traction and block traffic. The Summit Daily News reports that some question just how valuable the new law will be. “Enforcement could be an interesting issue,” Colin Remillard, a spokesman for the Colorado State Patrol, said. In other words, how do you tell somebody driving from, say, Florida of the law until they get into trouble?

Will jail time help build a new house? BASALT – Last week two individuals pleaded guilty to misdemeanor charges stemming from a wildfire they started last year when firing tracers rounds in violation of regulations at a shooting range. The fire raced across 12,600 acres, destroyed three homes and forced thousands of residents to flee. The fire also nearly caused portions of Aspen, 20 miles upvalley, as well as Snowmass, to lose power. The plea agreement calls for the two individuals, a 24-year-old man and a 23-year-old woman, to be jailed for 45 days and perform 1,500 hours of community service. Each was ordered to pay $100,000 in restitution. Formal sentencing is scheduled for July 1. The Aspen Times asked Cleve Williams, a firefighter who lost his home in the blaze, what he might tell the judge at sentencing. “I know they did wrong, but I don’t know what 45 days in jail will do,” Williams answered. Taxpayers, he added, will just be footing the bill. And assuming they come up with the restitution, it will not compensate him for his losses. “It’s two years of my life that they’ve taken,” he said. Total firefighting costs exceeded $20 million.

– Allen Best

telegraph

May 30, 2019 n

dayinthelife 12 n

May 30, 2019

his past mont of brooding sk Unfortunately it tricky to plan out parts, itâ€™s hard to get

teleg

Wet and wild by Stephen Eginoire

th has seen more than its share kies and torrential downpours. y, these fast-moving squalls make tdoor adventures, but in these t upset over copious amounts of

graph

unsolicited water. So, if you are willing to get a little wet and probably cold, why not embrace the gift of water in the desert? The rewards of experiencing the not-so-subtle ways dry landscapes flourish in such conditions are second to none. Hereâ€™s a look:

May 30, 2019 n

thesecondsection

ArtsScene

Elkins in a scene from his new one-man play, inspired by his son’s death./Photo by Zachary Burke

Outside – and inside – the box Dennis Elkins to hold benefit performances of “box.” at the DAC by Zach Hively

he whole idea behind “box.” – said as “box period” and coming to Durango for two benefit performances this Sat., June 1 – came to actor and playwright Dennis Elkins 11 years ago, when the ashes of his son were delivered to the door in a cardboard box. “I was absolutely struck dumb,” Elkins said. “I thought they came in urns or something fancy. Something fancier than just a cardboard box. And then I had to pack up all of his things in his room, again, into other cardboard boxes. This idea struck me that, oh my god, is this the end of our lives, just packed away in a box?” Elkins turned his grief and ongoing processing of his son’s death in part toward creating the one-man show that became “box.,” which he worked on for about a decade (including a turn in Durango as the

12 n May 30, 2019

JusttheFacts What: “box.” A one man play by Dennis Elkins When: 2:30 & 7:30 p.m., Sat., June 1 Where: Durango Arts Center Tickets: $35 available at durangoarts.org. All proceeds benefit Durango Friends of the Arts and the Grief Center of Southwest Colorado More info: boxperiodproductions.com chair of the Fort Lewis College Theater Department). It grew beyond that one life-defining event to incorporate all kinds of other experiences of life and lives going into boxes, from packing up his parents’ home after they passed to his own countless moves around the country. Now, the production is a collection of stories from

telegraph

Elkins’ life, all coming back to how the humble cardboard box became so important and defining. “We pack things away in it, we store them away under the bed or we put them in the closet or in the attic, and yet, when we decide to move, which I’ve done several times, we still take the box with us, and we can’t seem to get rid of it,” Elkins explained. “The stories that I’m trying to unpack, you might say, are: why do we get so fascinated with packing away things and then holding onto them, and how do we let them go?” As he developed “box.” with his director and collaborator, Karla Knudsen, Elkins envisioned his character being surrounded by a warehouse of boxes on stage. But creativity often springs from limitations and restrictions. So, Knudsen told him he had only one box. That’s the entire cast: Dennis Elkins, played by Dennis Elkins, and the titular box, played by a box.4

Otherwise, the stage is empty, ready to be filled with the audience’s own interpretations and reactions to Elkins’ experiences. Elkins recounted how he had to hold auditions for the box. It had to be large enough for him to get into – and get back out of. He learned it had to be square, so that it could fold easily on stage – during one performance in South Africa, he could only find a rectangular box, which led to some wardrobe malfunctions and extra creases on the box’s behalf. Then, he had to tap into his childhood imagination in order to interact with the box. Knudsen directed him to just play with the box. Elkins remembered how a box could be anything for him when he was a child, so he began driving his new box car around the stage, like he hadn’t done in years. That moment made it into the final production, its innocence something that just about everyone in the audience can relate to. And boy, do audiences relate to Elkins’ show. Both performances in Durango will have time for a talkback after the show, where audience members can share their responses and reactions with the actor and playwright. “I’ve found as I’ve performed it in different locations, that people have actually wanted to participate not by just watching and experiencing it voyeuristically, in a sense, but when the show is done, so many people want to express their own experiences of the points I touch on in my life,” Elkins said. “This is going deeper than I thought it was going to. This is speaking to more people on more levels than I ever dreamed.” For all that the show digs into grief and loss, it’s not without an expansive range of emotions. While the piece started in the devastation surrounding the worst moments of Elkins’ life, he finds something dark and humorous about all the things we keep in boxes and why we keep them. He says that our obsessions are funny to the point of absurdity, and the show finds humor in our foibles. There’s moments of poignancy, he finds, and moments of heartbreak that he has

For all that Elkins’ new show “box.” digs into grief and loss, it’s not without a range of emotions. While the piece started in the worst moments of his life, Elkins finds something humorous about all the things kept in boxes./Photos by Zachary Burke

to get through every time he performs. Each performance is somewhat distinct, as well. Being a one-man show, “box.” is easier to adapt on the fly than a full-cast production. Elkins has moments where, even though he wrote the show, he realizes mid-delivery how to say a line more clearly, or how to emphasize something differently. With such personal matters, too, he sometimes has audience members who react mid-scene, and he strives to adapt to those moments. He acknowledges that the play is a continually living organism – much in the same way grief is for many people. His art has been there to help him with his grief, which is a big part of why Elkins is bringing the show to town in order to benefit both the Durango Friends of the Arts and the Grief Center of Southwest Colorado. One hundred percent of ticket proceeds will be split between the two organizations. “I feel strongly about the work that both of these organizations do for Durango and all of Southwest Colorado,” Elkins said. “That’s why I’m doing it. I want to contribute in this way.” These benefit performances came together because, fortuitously enough, representatives from both the Grief Center and Friends of the Arts attended one of Elkins’ performances last year. They came to him, immediately and separately, to ask if he would consider staging “box.” as a benefit in Durango. It spoke to both of them artistically, he said, and they both recognized the need to share such stories with individuals who have experienced loss at various levels. Furthermore, bringing the show to Durango is a homecoming of sorts for Elkins. “I only spent like five years of my life living and working in Durango, but five years is still a significant amount of time. You grow to love a community,” he said. “This opportunity was like, hey, this really is a nice idea for me to do something personally for friends, to say thank you for being so supportive while I was there.”n

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May 30, 2019 n 13

TopShelf

Rockin’ out, Diggin Dirt and Railroad Earther by Chris Aaland

like other festivals, this one’s dog friendly, assuming Fido is leashed and behaves himself. nce upon a time, landscaping was my life. From three Railroad Earth frontman Todd Sheaffer brings his solo show years in the mid-1980s working on the grounds crew at to Animas City Theatre next Wednesday night (doors open at 7). Applewood Golf Club in Wheat Ridge to a summer on He’s been Railroad Earth’s principal songwriter, singer and guiTony Fuchs’ crew in the Denver area to a few years mowing tarist since 2001, as the group ascended into the rarified air atop dozens of suburban lawns per week in the old neighborhood, it contemporary newgrass, alongside the likes of Yonder Mountain kept me tanned, fit and in beer and concert money in my late String Band, Infamous Stringdusters and Greensky Bluegrass. teens through early twenEarly appearances at Telties. luride and Grey Fox introWhile mowing and duced them to tens of weed-whacking made up thousands of fans, and the bulk of my career, I was Sheaffer and company exfortunate to do bigger landpanded on their base by scaping projects, particuplaying intimate, smaller larly with Fuchs (get your venue shows in places like mind out of the gutter … Durango. Sheaffer is more he chose to pronounce it than just a Railroad Earther. “Fox”). We levelled ground, Long before that band even put in sprinkler systems, formed, he was part of From laid sod, planted trees, built Good Homes, an East Coast garden boxes and planters, trio that released a handful repaired equipment and of acclaimed albums for much more. RCA back in the 1990s. So when my wife, Shelly, When he wasn’t touring grabbed rakes and shovels and recording with FGH, and started clearing out Sheaffer undertook solo mulch in the xeriscaped tours of Europe. area in front of our house, I One of the most coveted knew something was afoot. Railroad Earth frontman Todd Sheaffer brings his solo show to the An- tickets around is one to the She’d found out that a Durango Blues Train, the imas City Theatre next Wednesday night. friend of a friend was wantfirst of which takes place Friing to clear out tons of river rock that he was using to stabilize day and Saturday. Six blues acts perform aboard the D&SNGRR on the slope outside of his house up near Lemon Reservoir. She vintage coaches, while passengers dance and drink their way from pounced on the opportunity to procure free rock like a cougar one coach to another. The first two, along with the Aug. 16-17 jumping on a wounded deer. trains, sold out months ago. The lucky few get to see Brandon SanWe packed the whole fan-damnily into the Tundra for four tini, Ally Venable Band, Brody Buster, Smokestack Relics, A.J. trips to fill the bed with rock. This was hand-to-hand combat. Gaither OMB and Alex Paul perform. Patrons will sip suds and Shovels and rakes were next to useless. Instead, we used our ciders from Ska, Telluride and Big B’s Hard Cider, along with wine hands to load, unload and place a couple of tons. Gloves certainly and non-alcoholic drinks. Even though it sold out, the folks at Dureduced the amount of pinched pinkies and dented digits, but rango Blues Train have teamed up with Lyte to give attendees a safe they didn’t eliminate them. But by Saturday evening, we’d laid way to get official tickets after tickets have sold out. This fan-to-fan nearly 500 square feet. exchange eliminates the worries of purchasing a fraudulent ticket Next came the planters. We have three whiskey half-barrels in from a scalper, Craigslist or third party like Stub Hub. Simply visit front of our house, and a handful of stone-lined garden areas. The Durango Blues Train’s website and sign up for the ticket exchange. barrels needed filling, first with dirt and compost, then with a Elsewhere: Red Eyed Djinn jams at tonight’s (Thurs., May mix of annuals and perennials. Finally, ground cover needed to 30) Ska-B-Q at the World Headquarters in Bodo Park; Tim Sullibe transplanted into select areas. van brings country to the Diamond Belle Saloon at 5:30 p.m. By Sunday night, I was sitting in my old, blue ice-fishing chair, tonight; Black Velvet has a busy week, with the duo playing the drinking an ice-cold Rue B. Soho grapefruit lager and admiring Dalton Ranch patio at 6 p.m. tonight and the Animas River Beer our handiwork. No trips to the emergency room. No major fights Garden in the Doubletree Hotel at 5 p.m. Saturday, while the trio between Otto and Rosie. Just a nice-looking rock garden and returns to the Balcony at 4 p.m. Sunday; Plursday at the Starlight some pretty flowers. features DJ Zirk from 9 ‘til close tonight; The Cortez country It’s a never-ending chore, though. Suckers and volunteers have group Bent Fender twangs out at Serious Texas BBQ South at 5 taken over a rocked garden area in the back yard that begs for flat p.m. Friday; The Crags rock the Starlight from 6-9 p.m. Friday, rock. Five aspens have died and need to be taken down, bucked and followed by DJ Hakan from 9 ‘til close; and DJ Affex spins at split for next winter. A six-foot-high fence needs to be erected to the Starlight from 9 ‘til close Saturday. contain my spirited German shorthair, Jessie. Grass needs to be The Animas City Theatre will screen the award-winning documowed and dog poop scooped. But Sunday’s suds sure tasted sweet. mentary “Amazing Grace” starting Friday and running The Dolores River Festival – one of the funkiest little festers through next Thursday. The film documents the live recording of in the Southwest – takes place in Dolores’ Joe Rowell Park this Sat- Aretha Franklin’s album of the same name at the New Temple urday from 10 a.m. until dark. The main stage hosts West Coast Missionary Baptist Church in Watts in 1972. Critics call it the funk/reggae/Afrobeat band Diggin Dirt, space cowboy Garrett greatest movie about gospel music ever made. Not only does it T. Capps and local acts Afrobeatniks and Elder Grown, document Aretha’s skills, but it’s a transcendent, spine-tingling, while others perform on the side stage and in the crowd throughuplifting and utterly joyous experience. out the day. Music is just half the fun. There’s also a variety of When will I see the sunshine again? Email me at chrisa@gobrain river activities, family fun, beer drinking, camping and more. Unstorm.net. n

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telegraph

onthetown

Thursday30 Baby Meetup with Durango Café au Play, 9:30-11:30 a.m., 2307 Columbine. 749-9607. ASA Canoe/Kayak Volunteer Training, 10 a.m.-2 p.m., Adaptive Sports Association, 125 E. 32nd St. Register at 259-0374 or program@asadurango.com. Drop-in Tennis, 4 p.m., Needham Elementary School, 2425 W. 3rd Ave. Veterans Thursday Afternoon Social Club for veterans, their spouses and supporters, 4-6 p.m., VFW, 1550 Main Ave Reel Paddling Film Festival and Kick-off for Animas River Days, 5 and 6:30 p.m., Animas City Theatre, 128 E. College Drive. www.animasriverdays.com. Durango Green Drinks, hosted by the Garden Project of Southwest Colorado and Durango Nature Studies, 5-6:45 p.m., Carver Brewing Co., 1022 Main Ave. Red Eyed Djinn performs, 5-7 p.m., Ska Brewing, 225 Girard St.

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

Tim Sullivan performs, 5:30 p.m., Diamond Belle Saloon, 699 Main Ave. Sitting Meditation, 5:30-6:15 p.m., Durango Dharma Center, 1800 E. 3rd Ave. Open Mic Night, 6 p.m., Eno Wine Bar, 723 E. 2nd Ave. The Black Velvet Duo performs, 6 p.m., Dalton Ranch. Dustin Burley performs, 7 p.m., The Office, 699 Main Ave. Gary B. Walker performs, 6:30-8:30 p.m., Jean-Pierre Restaurant & Wine Bar, 601 Main Ave. Open Mic & Stand-Up, 8 p.m., El Rancho Tavern, 975 Main Ave.

June 1, La Plata County Humane Society, 1111 S. Camino del Rio. lpchumanesociety.org. Free yoga, 8:30-9:30 a.m., Lively Boutique, 809 Main Ave. Zumba Gold, 9:30-10:15 a.m., La Plata Senior Center, 2424 Main Ave. ASA Rafting Volunteer Training, 10 a.m.-1 p.m., Adaptive Sports Association, 125 E. 32nd St. Register at 259-0374 or program@asadurango.com. Durango Blues Train, 11 a.m., event also runs June 1 and Aug. 16-17, Durango & Silverton Narrow Gauge Railroad’s Rockwood Station. www.durangotrain.com. 5-Year Anniversary Party, 3-7 p.m., Pathways Physical Therapy, 2243 Main Ave., Suite 1B. www.pathwaysdu rango.com. Spanish Speaking Parents & Littles Fridays, 4-6 p.m., Durango Café au Play, 1309 E. 3rd Ave., Room 201. durangocafeauplay.org. Bent Fender performs, 5 p.m., Serious Texas BBQ South. Dustin Burley performs, 5:30 p.m., Diamond Belle Saloon, 699 Main Ave.

Durango Early Bird Toastmasters, 7-8:30 a.m., LPEA, 45 Stewart St. 769-7615. 17th annual Adopt-a-Thon, 8 a.m.-8 p.m., also runs

National Trails Day “trail poker run” for hikers, equestrians and bicyclists, sponsored by San Juan Mountains Association, 8 a.m., Mud Springs Special Recreation Area near Cortez. kathe@sjma.org or 385-1310. Durango Farmers Market, featuring music from Andrew Sickler, 8 a.m.-noon, TBK Bank parking lot, W. 8th Street. www.durangofarmersmarket.com. 17th annual Adopt-a-Thon, 8 a.m.-8 p.m., La Plata County Humane Society, 1111 S. Camino del Rio. lpchu manesociety.org. Drop-in Tennis, 9 a.m., Durango High School, 2390 Main Ave. Trailwork Party celebrating National Trails Day, 9 a.m.-noon, Spurline Trails at Three Springs. www.trails2000.org. Henry Stoy performs, 10 a.m.-1 p.m., Jean-Pierre Restaurant & Wine Bar, 601 Main Ave. VFW Indoor Flea Market, 10 a.m.-4 p.m., 1550 Main Ave. 247-0384. The Dolores River Festival, featuring live music from Afrobeatniks, Elder Grown and more, 10 a.m. to dark, Joe Rowell Park in Dolores. www.doloresriverfesti val.org.

Lacey Black performs, 6-9 p.m., Pagosa Brewing Co. 731-2739.

Author Visit featuring Jon Waterman, author of Chasing Denali, 11 a.m., Ignacio Community Library.

The Crags perform, 6-9 p.m., DJ Hakan, 9 p.m.close, Starlight Lounge, 937 Main Ave.

Summer Reading Program Kickoff, featuring music from Six Dollar String Band, Ruby the Balloon Lady, food, games and more, 11 a.m.-1 p.m., Durango Public Library. www.durangogov.org/library.

Disco Night, 6:30-9 p.m., Chapman Hill Skating Rink. 375-7395. Andrew Schuhmann performs, 7 p.m., The Office, 699 Main Ave. The Shawn Arrington Blues Band performs, 7 p.m., Billy Goat Saloon in Gem Village. Karaoke, 7 p.m.-close, VFW, 1550 Main Ave.

Friday31

Animas River Days 2019, events throughout the day, River Parade and Viewing Party, 6-7:30 p.m., Santa Rita Park. www.animasriverdays.com.

Meet the Author event, featuring Heather Hansman, author of Downriver; Sinjin Eberle, of American Rivers; Beverley Kurtz, of Vishnu Temple Press; and 4Corners Riversports, 6 p.m., Maria’s Bookshop, 960 Main Ave. www.mariasbookshop.com.

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

Saturday01

Dennis Elkins’ “box.” performance benefitting Durango Friends of the Arts and Grief Center of Southwest Colorado, 2 and 7:30 p.m., Durango Arts Center, 802 E. 2nd Ave. www.durangoarts.org. Summer Picker’s Circle by the River, musicians of all skill levels welcome, 3-5 p.m. each Sat. thru Aug. 24, White Rabbit Books & Curiosities, 128 W. 14th St. 259-2213.

10-Minute Play Festival Readings, 7:30 p.m., Durango Arts Center, 802 E. 2nd Ave. www.durangoarts.org.

The Black Velvet Duo performs, 5 p.m., Animas River Beer Garden at the Doubletree Hotel.

Flagship Romance performs, 7:30 p.m., Sunflower Theatre in Cortez. www.sunflowertheatre.org.

Sheryl & Beau perform, 5:30 p.m., Diamond Belle Saloon, 699 Main Ave. 4

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May 30, 2019 n 15

Ashley Edwards performs, 7 p.m., The Office, 699 Main Ave.

Take me to the river: Animas River Days rages June 1

Smelter Mountain Boys perform, 7-9:30 p.m., Fenceline Ciders in Mancos.

What: Animas River Days 2019 When: All day, Sat., June 1 Where: Santa Rita Whitewater Park Info: www.animasriverdays.com It’s time to bust out the Chacos and PFD, fill up the koozie and head down to the Animas River for this year’s return of Animas River Days. The latest installment of the celebration of all things Animas River kicks of Saturday morning at the Whitewater Park with more fun than you can shake a paddle at. Slalom races will dominate the morning, followed by the downriver SUP race and raft slalom. Starting at noon, spectators can wet their whistles at the Ska beer tent and grab a shady spot on the rocks for an afternoon of freestyle kayaking, the floatie rodeo (think pool toys), boatercross and surf competitions. With the crowd warmed up, the big dogs take to the surf hole for the expert/pro freestyle comp starting at 3:45. Then, it’s time to secure prime viewing real estate or get to the put-in for the marquee event: the Animas River Days parade. The viewing party takes place from 6 – 7 p.m.

Light Show Public Skate, 6:30-9 p.m., Chapman Hill. 375-7395. Comedy Cocktail open mic stand up, 8 p.m., Eno Wine Bar, 723 E. 2nd Ave. DJ Affex performs, 9 p.m.-close, Starlight Lounge, 937 Main Ave.

Sunday02 Durango Flea Market, 8:30 a.m., La Plata County Fairgrounds. Veterans Breakfast, 9-11 a.m., Elks Club, 901 E. 2nd Ave. 946-4831. Henry Stoy performs, 10 a.m.-1 p.m., Jean-Pierre Restaurant & Wine Bar, 601 Main Ave. Free books, hosted by Durango Book Rescue, noon-4 p.m., 923 Narrow Gauge Ave. Traditional Irish Music Jam, 12:30-4 p.m., Irish Embassy, 900 Main Ave. Writers’ Workshop, 2 p.m., Ignacio Library. Live Music on the Lawn, featuring Matt Rupnow, 2-5 p.m., Sundays thru Aug. 4, Trimble Hot Springs, 6475 CR 203. 247-0111. Bards In-Between Open Mic Night, 5-8 p.m., Fenceline Ciders in Mancos. Blue Moon Ramblers, 5:30 p.m., Diamond Belle Saloon, 699 Main Ave.

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

Pete Giuliani performs, 5:30-7:30 p.m., Alce’ Restaurant at Dalton Ranch. Matt Rupnow performs, 7 p.m., The Office, 699 Main.

Monday03

Rob Webster performs, 7 p.m., The Office, 699 Main .

Guided Nature Tours, 9:45 a.m.-noon, Tuesday and Thursday thru mid-August, meet inside Purgatory Ticket Office. sjma.org.

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

Summer Reading Show: Rocky Mountain Puppets, 10:30-11:30 a.m. and 1-2 p.m., Durango Public Library.

Tuesday04

“Democracy Backsliding: Lessons From Hungary,” The Club - Dems on the Move monthly luncheon hosted by La Plata County Democrats, noon-1:30 p.m., Doubletree Hotel, 501 Camino del Rio. theclubdems@gmail.com.

Watch Your Step class, 10:15 a.m., Durango Senior Center, 2424 Main Ave.

Growing Together Ability Summit, a day of educational workshops, networking and a free lunch for youth and adults with disabilities, their families, friends and support professionals, 9 a.m.-4:30 p.m., Student Union at Fort Lewis College.

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

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

Yoga Storytime, 9:30-10:45 a.m., Smiley Building Studio 10, 1309 E. 3rd Ave.

Don’t let a small space stop you from a successful harvest!

16 n May 30, 2019

As typical, parking at Santa Rita is expected to be slim pickins. Attendees are encouraged to walk, ride or take the free City shuttle, which leaves every 20 minutes from the Transit Center between 9 a.m. – 8 p.m. All the hoopla will be followed by a late-night party with DJ Posh Josh at the El Rancho. As a pre-ARD warmup, 4Corner Riversports will screen the Reel Paddling Film Festival on Thursday night at the Animas City Theatre. There will be two showings – 5 and 6:30 p.m. – and tickets cost $15 in advance at 4Corners or $20 at the door (proceeds benefit River Days.) Animas River Days started in 1983 when local paddling legend Nancy Wiley put on the first whitewater rodeo in Durango. Over the years, Animas River Days has grown to draw paddlers from around the world including local superheroes and pro athletes from Jackson, Badfish, Liquid Logic, Red Bull, Pyranha, Hala and SOL. The event also has a goal to become zero waste by 2020. Volunteers are still needed to help pull off this fabulous event. All volunteers will receive a free ARD T-shirt as well as a volunteer appreciation party on Sun., June 9, at 4Corners Riversports. For more, go to www.ani masriverdays.com.

$$$

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telegraph

Drop-in Tennis, 4 p.m., Durango High, 2390 Main. Six Dollar String Band performs, 5:30 p.m., Diamond Belle Saloon, 699 Main Ave.

AskRachel Interesting fact: Colorado has been declared 99.99 percent drought free thanks to all the snow, and I’m just wondering which little plot somehow escaped getting snow in May. Dear Rachel, Yeah yeah, it’s nearly June and it’s still snowing. We get it. Why do you all have to keep talking about it, taking pictures of it, and talking about it some more? Sure, it’s pretty neat to ride the Iron Horse while stopping to take a run on your skis. That’s cool. The dusting of white atop your previous dusting of white atop your patio furniture? No one cared in the first place, and no one cares now. - Snowdowner Dear Edward Snowdone, Where are you that you’re hearing all these stories and seeing all these pictures of the snow? I live a pretty normal life, and none of my friends are talking about it beyond a cursory mention. Ok, fine, I don’t live a normal life. And OK, fine, I don’t exactly have what you’d call “friends.” So maybe I’m not the authority on this subject. Or any subject, really. Why are you even writing me for advice? – I can’t believe it’s still snowing, Rachel

Dear Rachel, I can put up with a lot of crap from roommates, but my current cohabitant has an issue with closing bags. Namely, she doesn’t. All the easy-to-reseal bags with zippers and Velcro just

OntheTown from p. 19

Container Gardening Class with Darrin Parmenter from the CSU Extension Office, 5:30 p.m., Ignacio Community Library.

Rotary Club of Durango, presentation by Karen Midkiff with Mercy Health Foundation, 6 p.m., Strater Hotel. 426-9549.

EV-ning: Free info session on how EVs work, hosted by 4CORE, 6:30-7:30 p.m., Durango Public Library. www.fourcore.org or 259-1916.

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

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

Leah Orlikowski performs, 7 p.m., The Office, 699 Main Ave.

Latin Social Nights, 8-11 p.m., Wild Horse Saloon, 601 E. 2nd Ave. 375-2568.

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

get left wide open. Tortillas go stale. Grapes get spilled. And you can forget about closing bags with chip clips. Closing bags has got to be the simplest way to live a civilized life, but she’s just incapable. How can I get her to take the steps to keep our food fresh? - Zip Tied

Dear Zip Line in the Sand, I had a roommate once who literally never washed a dish unless he was about to use it, and then he put it dirty right back in the sink. I washed his dishes for a while, then I stopped, figuring that would show him. He let the dishes pile up in the sink until they kissed the faucet, and then he put them in a box on the counter where they sat until I moved out and decided I could never trust people again. There’s probably a lesson for you in there somewhere. – Zip it good, Rachel Dear Rachel, I have a secret. It’s a big secret. I feel like I can’t tell anyone this secret, though, even though it’s a positive secret. I guess I feel like if I spill the beans, I’ll be jinxing it, and it’ll all fall apart. But I also want the joy of telling my friends the news and rubbing it in the faces of my enemies. I don’t know when I can share the secret, but maybe the world already knows because we live in a surveillance state. Should I tell? – Secret Society of One

Summer Reading Kickoff Party, featuring free BBQ and more, 10 a.m., Ignacio Community Library.

Early Literacy Playdate, 10:30 a.m.-noon, Durango Public Library. Tai Chi at Trimble, 1:30 p.m., Wednesdays thru the

Dear Lock Box, I hate to tell you, but as much as you think your news will rattle the world, lives will go on. Children will still be born, the sun will set, and people will continue to post videos with amazement of slushy rain falling after Memorial Day. – Shhh, Rachel

summer, Trimble Hot Springs, 6475 CR 203. 247-0111.

Ongoing

Pete Giuliani performs, 5-9 p.m., Animas River Beer Garden at Doubletree Hotel, 501 Camino del Rio.

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

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

After-school program, 4:15-5:15 p.m. Wednesdays, Mancos Library.

Thank the Veterans potluck, 5:30 p.m., Peter Neds performs, 7-8:30 p.m., VFW, 1550 Main Ave. 828-7777. Loki Moon – Raw Experiments, 6-8 p.m., Eno Wine Bar, 723 E. 2nd Ave. Great Garden Series: Good bugs vs. bad bugs, 6-8 p.m., Durango Public Library.

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

Upcoming Mulch Giveaway, hosted by the City of Durango, 9 a.m.-3 p.m., June 7, Van Dal sump Site at the Durango Tech Center. 375-4839.

The Jeff Solon Jazz Duo performs, 6-9 p.m., Cyprus Café. 385-6884.

Friday Nights at Fox Fire Farms, featuring music from Black Velvet, 6-9 p.m., June 7, Fox Fire Farms in Ignacio. fox firefarms.com.

True West Rodeo Opening Day, 6:30 p.m., La Plata County Fairgrounds. www.truewestrodeo.com.

Pete Giuliani performs, benefit for Mancos Youth Baseball, 7-9 p.m., June 7, Fenceline Ciders in Mancos.

Dustin Burley performs, 7 p.m., The Office, 699 Main. Gary B. Walker performs, 6:30-8:30 p.m., Jean-Pierre Restaurant & Wine Bar, 601 Main Ave. Open Mic Night, 7:30 p.m., The Roost, 128 E. College Dr.

Wednesday05

Email Rachel at telegraph@durangotelegraph.com

Todd Sheaffer performs, 8 p.m., Animas City Theatre, 128 College Dr. www.animascitytheatre.com. Karaoke, 8 p.m., Blondies in Cortez. Karaoke with Crazy Charlie, 8 p.m.-close, Wild Horse Saloon, 601 E. 2nd Ave.

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Blue Lotus Feet Kirtan, 7:30-9:30 p.m., June 7, YogaDurango, Florida Road.

Deadline for “On the Town” submissions is Monday at noon. To submit an item, email: calendar@durango telegraph.com

May 30, 2019 n 17

FreeWillAstrology by Rob Brezsny ARIES (March 21-April 19): In the coming weeks it will make good sense for you to travel down winding paths replete with interesting twists and provocative turns. The zigzags you’ll be inspired to pursue won’t be inconvenient or inefficient, but rather will be instrumental in obtaining the healing you need. To honor and celebrate this oddly lucky phase, I’ll quote parts of “Flying Crooked,” a poem by Robert Graves. “The butterfly will never master the art of flying straight yet has a just sense of how not to fly: He lurches here and here by guess and God and hope and hopelessness. Even the acrobatic swift has not his flying-crooked gift.” TAURUS (April 20-May 20): Has a part of you become too timid, docile or prosaic? Is there an aspect of your beautiful soul that is partially muzzled, submissive or housebroken? If so, now is a favorable time to seek an antidote. But listen closely: the cure isn’t to become chaotic, turbulent and out of control. It would be counterproductive to resort to berserk mayhem. Here’s a better way: be primal, lush and exciting. Be wildly playful and unpredictably humorous and alluringly intriguing. Try experiments that rouse your rowdy sweetness, your unkempt elegance, your brazen joy and your sensual intelligence. GEMINI (May 21-June 20): I prefer live theater over movies. The glossy flawlessness of films, accomplished by machines that assemble and polish, is less emotionally rich than the direct impact of live performers’ unmediated voices and bodies and emotions. Their evocative imperfections move me in ways that glossy flawlessness can’t. Even if you’re not like me, Gemini, I invite you to experiment with my approach for a while – not just in the entertainment you choose, but in all areas of your life. As much as possible, get your experience raw and unfiltered.

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CANCER (June 21-July 22): I’ve got a message for you from Cancerian poet Tyler Knott Gregson. Please read it every day for the next 15 days, including when you first wake up and right before sleep. Here it is: “Promise me you will not spend so much time treading water and trying to keep your head above the waves that you forget, truly forget, how much you have always loved to swim.”

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LEO (July 23-Aug. 22): In 2003, a group of thieves in Antwerp, Belgium, pulled off the biggest jewelry heist in history. To steal the diamonds, gold and other gems, worth more

than $100 million, they had to outsmart security guards, a seismic sensor, a protective magnetic field, Doppler radar, infrared detectors, and a lock. I mention this, Leo, because I suspect that in the coming weeks you will have a comparable ability to insinuate yourself into the presence of previously inaccessible treasures and secrets and codes. You’ll be able to penetrate barriers that have kept you shut off from valuable things. (P.S. But I hope that unlike the Antwerp thieves, you’ll use your superpowers in an ethical manner.) VIRGO (Aug. 23-Sept. 22): In the northeast corner of Spain, bordering France, is an area known as Catalonia. With its own culture and language, it has a long history of seeking complete autonomy. On four occasions it has declared itself to be independent from Spain. The most recent time was in 2017, when 92 percent of the Catalans who voted expressed the desire to be free of Spain’s rule. Alas, none of the rebellions have succeeded. In the latest instance, no other nation on Earth recognized Catalonia’s claim to be an independent republic. In contrast to its frustrated attempts, your own personal quest to seek greater independence could make real progress in the coming months. For best results, formulate a clear intention and define the precise nature of the sovereignty you seek. Write it down! LIBRA (Sept. 23-Oct. 22): A Libran blogger named OceanAlgorithms wrote, “I’m simultaneously wishing I were a naturalist whose specialty is finding undiscovered species in well-explored places; and a skateboarding mathematician meditating on an almost-impossible-to-solve equation as I practice my skateboard tricks; and a fierce forest witch who casts spells on nature-despoilers; and a gothic heroine with 12 suitors; and the sexiest cat that ever lived.” I love how freewheeling and wide-ranging OceanAlgorithms is with her imaginative fantasies. In light of current astrological omens, I encourage you to do the same. Give yourself permission to dream and scheme extravagantly. SCORPIO (Oct. 23-Nov. 21): Geologists aren’t exactly sure why, but almost 6 million years ago, the Strait of Gibraltar closed up. As a result, the Mediterranean Sea was cut off from the Atlantic Ocean, and within a thousand years, it had mostly disappeared. Fast forward 600,000 years. Again, geologists don’t understand how it happened, but a flood broke through the barrier, allowing the ocean to flow back into the Mediterranean basin and restore it to its previous status as a sea. I propose that we invoke that replenishment as a holy symbol for the process you’re engaged in: a replenishment of your dried-out waters.

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SAGITTARIUS (Nov. 22Dec. 21): I invite you to meditate on this proposal from freelance writer Radha Marcum: “The spiritual definition of love is that when you look at the person you love, it makes you love yourself more.” I hope there’s a lot of that kind of action going on for you in the next four weeks. According to my assessment of life’s secret currents, all of creation will be conspiring to intensify and deepen your love for yourself by intensifying and deepening your love for other people. Cooperate with that conspiracy, please! CAPRICORN (Dec. 22-Jan. 19): Is there a creature on earth that’s more annoying than the mosquito? I’ve never heard anyone gaze upon one of the pesky monsters sucking blood out of her arm and say, “Aw, what a cute little bug.” And yet every year there is a town in Russia that holds a jokey three-day celebration in honor of the mosquito. The people who live in Berezniki even stage a “most delicious” competition, in which people allow themselves to be pricked by mosquitoes for 20 minutes, with an award going to whomever accumulates the most bites. I highly approve of the spirit of this approach for your own use in the coming weeks, Capricorn. If you have fun with the things that bother you, I bet they won’t bother you as much. AQUARIUS (Jan. 20-Feb. 18): It’s the Forever Season, Aquarius. You have a poetic license to act as if your body will live for a hundred years and your soul will live for all eternity. You are authorized to believe that in the coming decades you will grow steadily wiser, kinder, happier and wilder. During the Forever Season, you may have dreams like flying over a waterfall at sunset, or finding the lost magic you were promised before you were born, or discovering the key to a healing you feared would always elude you. As you careen through this unpredictable grace period, your understanding of reality may expand dramatically. I bet you’ll get practical epiphanies about how to express yourself with greater effectiveness. PISCES (Feb. 19-March 20): A musical historian from Cambridge University decided it would be amusing to perform forgotten songs that were written in the Rhineland a thousand years ago. His research wasn’t easy, because musical notation was different back then. But he ultimately reconstructed the tunes in ways that he felt were 80 percent faithful to the originals. He and other musicians subsequently performed and recorded them. I propose a somewhat comparable assignment for you in the coming weeks, Pisces. You will benefit, I believe, from trying to recover the truth about events that occurred a long time ago and/or by trying to revivify old beauty that has new relevance.

classifieds

Deadline for Telegraph classified ads is Tuesday at noon. Ads are a bargain at 10 cents a character with a $5 minimum. Even better, ads can now be placed online: durangotelegraph.com. Prepayment is required via cash, credit card or check. (Sorry, no refunds or substitutions.)

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

Announcements

career and work for the agency voted #1 in home care! Visit https://sites.hireology.com/comfortkeepersnmco/ to apply or call Jennifer at 970-442-0772. Grassburger is Hiring! High schoolers – looking for a summer job that is fun and rewarding? Come on in and apply or download an application from our website: www.eatgrassburger.com. 726½ Main Avenue behind the Rivertrippers kiosk. 6th Street Liquor Hiring PT 6th Street Liquors hiring Weekend Day shift position, hours hiring for are 9am5pm. Come in 9am-12pm for an in-person interview with resume or drop off resume at 273 E. College Dr.

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

Wanted

Budtender Wanted If you’re looking to get in on the ground floor of the cannabis industry with a vertically integrated company, this is your chance. The Greenery is now accepting resumes for customer service representatives, and budtending experience is not required. We’re looking for outgoing applicants with open schedules who are friendly and willing to learn everything it takes to succeed in the cannabis industry. Check us out at www.durangogreenery.com, and then send your resume to melissa@durangogreenery.com, or come in and drop it off at 208 Parker Avenue, Suite E. We’re Your Best Buds!

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

ing, Room #32. 259-4794. www.4corner syoga.com Music Lessons w/ Jeff Solon Sax flute clarinet harmonica beginning piano. Improv on any instrument. Composition arranging theory special projects. All ages, levels, + styles. Returning to your musical passion after a long absence? Let’s talk jeffsolon.com call/text 970-946-1992 Classes at Namaste Thursday meditation - 8am Thursday classes: Parenting, healing herbs, food as medicine 9:30-10:30 Donations accepted. RSVP to 970-247-2043. namastehealthcenter.com The Art of Mindfullness Sundays in June 9, 16, 23. 9:00am4:30pm. Hike. Connect. Renew. $225 www.MyInsightMBS.com/events. 970-2380438. Bronwyn@MyInsightMBS.com Mommy and Me Dance Class Come join the fun! Now registering for classes. Call 970-749-6456. mom myandmedance.com.

Services Low Price on Storage! Inside/outside near Durango, RJ Mini Storage. 970-259-3494. Harmony Organizing and Cleaning Services Home and office 970-403-6192. Advanced Duct Cleaning Air duct cleaning specializing in dryer vents. Improves indoor air quality; reduces dust and allergens, energy bills and fire risk. 970-247-2462 www.advanced ductcleaninginc.com

HelpWanted

BodyWork Seasonal Tent Crew Needed! Durango Party Rental is seeking full and part time Seasonal Tent Crew. Clean driving record helpful. Competitive pay. Call 259-6009 or email resume to info@durangopartyrental.com CNA/Caregivers Needed! Comfort Keepers offers competitive pay, paid training, recognition programs, holiday pay and PayActiv (access to your pay between paychecks)! Advance your

Classes/Workshops Yoga Classes Starting June 3 For students of all levels with Kathy Curran. Drop ins welcome. Smiley Build-

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Massages by Meg Bush 30, 60 & 90 min. 970-759-0199. massageintervention.life Voted best massage in Durango 2018. Couples, sauna, outdoor shower, cupping. Reviews on FB + Yelp. 970-9032984 Massage with Kathryn 20+ years experience offering a fusion

HaikuMovieReview ‘The Family Fang’ A family of performance artists put fun in disfunctional – Lainie Maxson of esalen style, deep tissue massage with therapeutic stretching & Acutonics. New clients receive $5 off first session. To schedule appt. call 970-201-3373.

RealEstate Great Homebuyer Opportunity FSBO in town 5BR/2BA. Live in part, rent out part to help pay mortgage. Perfect for ADU (accessory dwelling unit). $568K. 970-759-0551. Radon Services Free radon testing and consultation. Call Colorado Radon Abatement and Detection for details. 970- 946-1618.

Garage/YardSale Moving Sale Sat., June 1 from 8am-2pm, 2965 E 4th Ave household goods, furniture, books, clothes.

ForSale Tandem bicycle Tandem, cruiser type, excellent. $150. 970-769-2401. Vintage Yeti Bicycle 1989 FRO hand built in Agoura Hills, CA., before Yeti moved to Durango. Still has some of the original Shimano XT parts - including cranks, derailleurs and wheels. This bike could easily be made original again with very little effort. $800. Serious buyers only, please. Call 970-903-0005.

ForRent Personal Training/Yoga Space We are looking to share our space with trainers and or yoga instructors. Rent depends on how often the space is needed. In town location with tons of parking. Terms are flexible. Inquire at julie@axiomcyclingstudio.com May 30, 2019 n 19

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