The Durango Telegraph, Nov. 2, 2023

Burning for you

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FREE Nov. 2, 2023 Vol. XXII, No. 44 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

Paradise lost

Taxing situation

’Bout to get funky

Shining a light on mental health in resort towns p6

This year’s ballot cheat sheet (w/apologies to TayTay) p8

November music lineup has something for everyone p10

60th Annual

Hesperus

ki Swap ki Patrol Ski Ski Sat., Nov. 4 • 8 a.m. - 4 p.m.

La Plata County Fairgrounds Public Check-in Thurs., Nov. 2, 3-8 p.m.

More than 10,000 new and used items to choose from

Want to Sell Some Gear?

The cost to sell is $1/item. Items must have a minimum cost of $5.

Fill out the gear drop-off form ahead of time at www.hesperusskipatrol.org Proceeds go to the all-volunteer Hesperus Ski Patrol

2 n Nov. 2, 2023

telegraph

lineup

Trials and tribulations of a summer road trip gone awry

5 Writers on the Range

4 La Vida Local

Road warriors

by David Feela

6 Mountain Life

6

8 Top Story 10 Between the Beats

Paradise lost Mental health and other issues lurk beneath idyllic resort town surface

11 Murder Ink

by Chadwick Dixon

12-13 Stuff to Do

8

13 Ask Rachel

Taxing situation The Telegraph tries to demystify this year’s short-but-dense ballot (with apologies to TayTay)

On the cover The days are getting darker, but there are ways to keep the party going (just please don’t use new issues of the Telegraph for fire starter)./ Photo by Alex Krebs

Funky town

November music lineup offers a little bit of everything

boilerplate

by Stephen Sellers

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15 Classifieds 15 Haiku Movie Review

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14 Free Will Astrology

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telegraph

Ear to the ground: “Better to watch it die than to suggest moving it and and causing a fight because I’m being ‘negative.’”

– Ah, the age-old marital spat over a plant in a bathroom with no windows

It’s beginning to ...

thepole

4

RegularOccurrences

Well, it’s the first week of November, and you know what that means – the holidays are here. And god help us.

Already, Christmas commercials are airing on TV (you know the ones, where the family looks a little too happy). At last check, City Market hadn’t put decorations outside, but a very helpful store clerk said they can be found on Aisle 10. And just the other day, we saw someone dressed as Will Ferrell from “Elf,” though, admittedly, that could have been a Halloween costume.

All this to say, we’re not anti-Christmas here at The Telegraph. But we are anti putting up decorations at 12:01 a.m., Nov. 1. Since when did one day of the year extend to an overbearing, two-month inescapable hell of tinsel and holiday jingles?

So, of course, we took to the internet to learn more and discovered there’s actually a Wikipedia page for what’s called the “Christmas creep.” There is also a Reddit page titled: “Why the f*** is there Christmas commercials airing right now WE’RE ON THE SECOND WEEK OF F***ING NOVEMBER” dated Nov. 8, 2021. It’s a fun thread, we recommend it, with exchanges such as: • “My mother-in-law has the beginning of ‘All I Want for Christmas’ as her text tone. I hear it 24/7 no matter the time of year.”

• One person’s response: “Jesus Christ, that should be a crime.”

Back on Wikipedia, however, there’s a more detailed history of “Christmas creep.”

Now it doesn’t take a rocket scientist to figure out why Christmas has infiltrated October and November: money, plain and simple.

Businesses see a huge increase in sales with the spending craze that has become synonymous with Christmas. Retailers like Walmart, Target and Costco sell holiday merchandise as early as mid-September.

And it’s not just in the U.S. Countries like the U.K. and Australia have the same issue.

(And, to be fair, we’ve been seeing all holiday items, like Easter, out earlier and earlier).

The phenomenon is so prevalent that even Heathline.com (think WebMD) has a page on how to cope with the onslaught of supposed merriment. “You don’t have to be holly and jolly in October,” the health experts assure you. “You can decide when the holiday season starts for you, whether that’s today or Dec. 24.”

Well, that’s a little hard to do with every where in town playing “Frosty the Snowman.” So we have a new suggestion – can we just fast-forward to Snowdown?

Nov. 2, 2023 n 3

opinion

LaVidaLocal The wisdom discount The young man at a Montrose Arby’s surprised me with a comment as he tallied our food order. He said, “I’ll just give you the wisdom discount.” My good ear did a double-what? After we sat down, I realized a wisdom discount must be a courteous way to offer a senior citizen discount without having to count your wrinkles. I’m glad I didn’t ask him to repeat what he said. Because despite being a certified senior, I’d probably have added that wisdom doesn’t always come with age.

This sage encounter actually started the day before. We’d set up our tiny Scamp atop Lizard Head Pass, to escape a Four Corners’ heat wave. Before leaving home Monday, Pam reminded me of a Thursday appointment. I said, “Oh yeah, I forgot, must be dental denial, but we’ve got plenty of time.”

We slept comfortably that night, even dug out an additional blanket as the overnight low dipped to 37 degrees. Early Tuesday morning, we drove through Ridgway on our way to breakfasting in Montrose, trying out a new restaurant where the food unfortunately only qualified as marginal, but at least the bathroom was clean.

Next we visited some thrift stores, which didn’t pose a problem, because I assumed we owned this worry-free day. Three thrift stores later, I proposed it might be sensible to head back to the trailer. I cranked up the AC, and we headed back toward Lizard Head.

Passing through Ridgway once more, we noticed the Humane Society thrift was open, so we stopped. I picked what I thought to be a lucky spot near the door, and we went inside, totally unaware that over 24 hours would elapse before I ever heard a peep from our engine again.

Story details developed into tedious paragraphs might explain what happened after leaving the thrift store, but let me simplify with a loose list of sequential events. I’ll use frowny and smiley faces so you don’t get queasy on this emotional roller coaster.

1) Engine wouldn’t start ... dashboard report: “Braking power low ... stop in safe place ... see owner’s manual”... computer glitch? :-( but how clever of me to have parked before the message appeared :-) 2) Called only repair shop in Ridgway that answered phone ... willing to look at vehicle :-) no, we don’t have a tow truck :-( 3) Talked with owner of Busted Knuckle in Montrose ... willing to tow vehicle

to Ridgway repair shop :-) presently working on Grand Mesa, four hours away :-( 4) Called Apex Towing ... owner of another Montrose towing service, said he could leave shortly, about a half hour :-) 5) Called Busted Knuckles back ... no cell service ... sent text to cancel appointment, fingers crossed he’d get it :-( 6) Called Montrose Toyota dealer ... yes, happy to look at vehicle :-) but shop closes in hour :-( 7) Apex Towing loads vehicle ... says it might just be battery, which Pam mentioned over an hour ago ... towed to Montrose :-) 8) Arrived before closing :-) correct battery not in stock :-( orders it :-) should arrive tomorrow :-( 9) Walked in scorching heat to nearest motel ... completely booked :-( noticed the Busted Knuckle tow truck idling next to parking lot ... Daniel invites us into air-conditioned cab ... calls other motels, drives us, makes our toes happy :-) 10) 8 a.m., Wednesday morning, walk back to dealer ... no battery delivered yet :-( invited to sit in waiting room where cold water and fresh coffee flow :-) 11) By 1 p.m. battery installed ... vehicle running :-) paid bill :-( thanked staff and exited Montrose, again :-) The vehicle ran well, but my confidence had been shaken. We just drove, never turning the engine off, even on Lizard Head while I hitched the trailer to the vehicle. All the way back to Cortez, I wondered if anything else could happen, and not until I’d backed into our driveway and situated the trailer two inches from the garage door did we sigh and sit a long moment, listening to the silence.

Thursday morning I woke early, brushed my teeth and walked to my 8 a.m. dental appointment. The dentist asked me to open wide and looked carefully inside.

“Tell me if this hurts,” he said as he tapped the back row of teeth like a xylophone, but I felt no pain, except my lower jaw ached, as if I’d been grinding my teeth all night.

“Nothing serious” he finally announced, “except a filling came loose that needs to be replaced.”

“Which tooth?” I sputtered.

He tapped the back molar again, and I swear these were his exact words: “This one, your old wisdom tooth.”

Thumbin’It Purgatory Resort announcing it plans to open Nov. 18 after beginning snowmaking operations this week. Bring on the Demon hot laps!

4 n Nov. 2, 2023

– David Feela

SignoftheDownfall: A new report showing the U.S. has a gun violence death rate seven times higher than Canada and 340 times higher than the U.K. Hmm, wonder what the differentiating factor is here?

Durango breaking ground on the “Residences at Durango” – the former Best Western hotel the city intends to convert into 120 affordable-housing units.

Reports that the U.S. and China are now engaged in a new space race to claim lunar territory on the moon. Oh boy, who needs “Star Wars” when we’re about to get the real thing.

Former Vice President Mike Pence ending his presidential bid. As if the man who said “I am never alone with any woman who is not my wife, so I can’t possibly have an affair” stood a real chance.

We’re actually not sure if this NPR headline is good news or bad, but we’ll leave it to you: “It’s unlikely, but not impossible, to limit global warming to 1.5 Celsius (the limit set in the 2015 Paris agreement), study finds.” We’re thinking bad.

telegraph

Sorta Potty The “Thirsty Goose” is a hollow plastic goose with a removable golden beak/cap, and it’s billed as “the world’s most stylish portable urinal.” It sells for $69.69 – but you can save 5% by using code “4U2PN2” at checkout.

Basically, dudes are supposed to keep the Thirsty Goose on their nightstands to avoid annoying trips to the bathroom at night. It has a 42-oz. capacity, the manufacturer guarantees that “one size fits most,” and for an extra $7, you can buy your goose a glow-in-the-dark necklace to help with your aim. Other uses for the Thirsty Goose include road trips, movie theaters and ensuring that you don’t get a second date.

WritersontheRange

Shoulder to shoulder The West has too many visiting hunters, to the detriment of locals and wildlife

by Andrew Carpenter

H

unting may be losing popularity nationally, but in the West, the number of hunters is climbing.

According to the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, in 2022, there were 10% fewer hunters across the country than when hunting peaked in the 1980s. At the same time, four Western states – Colorado, Montana, Idaho and Utah — saw more hunters than ever before.

A key driver of this trend is out-ofstate hunters who have run out of luck in their home states: elk, deer and other big game species have declined precipitously in many parts of the nation.

“Opportunities to hunt elk are very limited where I live,” Wisconsin resident Erik Rollefson said. “My home state only has a few hundred elk and issues fewer than 10 elk hunting permits per year. I have a better chance to get a license in any Western state.”

Out West, big game hunting licenses are distributed in state-run lotteries.

While most are reserved for local residents, some can be allotted to non-resident hunters. Hunter numbers are down 8% in New Mexico, but the state still reserves 16% of licenses for non-residents.

Contrast that with Colorado, where as many as 35% of the licenses go to out-ofstate hunters. Colorado also sells unlimited “over-the-counter” licenses that do not require a lottery entry to purchase.

Policies like this have contributed to a whopping 26% more hunters in the state than there were in 2008.

It’s not surprising that many local hunters resent losing hunting opportunities to visitors.

“Many residents depend on hunting for food,” Rebecca Bradley, a Colorado bow hunter, said. “I’d prefer that the state reserve licenses for locals before setting any aside for non-residents.”

In Montana, hunter numbers are up almost 4%. Big Sky Country sold slightly fewer hunting licenses to residents from 2008-21, but non-residents bought 35% more licenses over that same period.

With more out-of-state hunters pressuring game, some residents tell me they’d

Dan Vigueria with a bull elk in 2022 in Paonia./ Courtesy of Grizzly Bows LLC rather stay home.

“The non-resident (hunter) numbers have gone up like crazy,” Joe Perry, a Montana rancher and founding member of the Montana Sportsmen Alliance, said.

“That excludes residents.”

Though hunting tourism may discourage some locals from hunting, it’s a windfall for state wildlife agencies and helps subsidize license prices for residents.

Except for Utah, which reserves just 10% of its tags for non-residents, Western states such as Colorado, Montana, Idaho, New Mexico and Wyoming receive more than 60% of their license revenue from non-resident hunters.

That’s because non-residents pay so much more to hunt than residents do.

The Wyoming Legislature recently passed a bill to increase certain kinds of non-resident elk licenses from $576 to $1,258, while a resident pays just $57.

Increasing costs for hunting licenses

and what many say is crowding in the outback may finally reduce the ranks of out-of-state hunters.

“It’s a big expense, and you don’t get to experience the wilderness if the mountains are overrun with hunters,” Rollefson, the hunter from Wisconsin, said.

“I’d rather go less often but have a higher-quality hunt, with fewer hunters and more animals.”

Joey Livingston, a public information officer for Colorado Parks and Wildlife, said the agency’s approach is that “the animals take priority,” although “crowding has become a factor.”

The agency is considering reducing the non-resident license allocation from 35% to 25%, a change expected to cost the state $1.4 million.

I live in Colorado, but I no longer hunt locally. I support allocating fewer hunting licenses for visitors so that locals don’t feel locked out. I believe resident

telegraph

hunters and a local hunting culture that’s invested in public land and its wildlife deserve to take priority over hunting tourism. Those of us who live in the state are the ones who pay taxes, vote and volunteer to clean up trails.

If locals lose interest in hunting because wild places have become crowded, and animal populations drop because deer and elk are over-pressured, the next generation of hunters will be seasonal tourists rather than year-round stewards of their local area.

We need to preserve the wildness we’ve got left in Colorado along with the wild animals that depend on it. To do that, local hunters need to come first when it comes to issuing licenses to hunt.

Andrew Carpenter is a contributor to Writers on the Range, writersontherange.org, an independent nonprofit dedicated to spurring lively conversation about the West. He lives in Colorado. ■ Nov. 2, 2023 n 5

MountainLife

Sure, mountain and resort towns may seem like idyllic places to live. But often problems like lack of affordable housing, wellpaying jobs and mental-heath care lurk below the surface./ Photo by Missy Votel

Paradise paradox Thoughts on Bode Miller’s visit, mental-health access in resort towns

by Chadwick Dixon

I

t’s great to see a celebrity figure giving back. Last time I saw Bode Miller was at his New Year’s Eve party in 2001, just before his name became synonymous on the world skiing circuit. We grew up one town away in northern New Hampshire learning to ski at our beloved Cannon Mountain, home to steep sheets of ice far from the powdery playground of the Rockies. He mastered the art of speeding, and I mastered the art of floating. His was a lucrative pursuit, mine was a selfish indulgence in neurochemistry.

With Miller’s new film, “Paradise Paradox,” this champion is now taking on the next Olympic challenge: mental health struggles in ski towns. Wow! Finally, I thought, as I viewed the trailer the week before his talk at Fort Lewis College. This is a topic I basically lived for a decade in Crested Butte.

6 n Nov. 2, 2023

As beautiful as these dreamy locations are, there are nightmares lurking just under the magic carpet. By sparking the conversation, we are looking where we didn’t want to look before to try to save people’s lives.

And it’s well overdue. As stated in the film, ski towns have seen a massive surge in suicide in the last decade; quadruple the rate of the rest of the nation.

Personally, my list is long. I shudder at even considering the names of fallen friends from my decade in Crested Butte. I keep them in my heart, making small homages to their memory, gazing northeast toward CB from the summit ridge of Purgatory before beginning another blissful plunge. I wonder, if someone had reached out to them, they would still be here today – skiing with me or maybe, having said “to hell with winter,” lounging on a beach in Mexico with their kids?

Was there enough access to mental health care that

telegraph

could have turned the tide in their most tumultuous times? In a world run by profit-hungry insurance companies, the answer apparently is no. A lot of health insurance plans do not cover mental health. Hopefully, the awareness generated by these efforts can move that boulder.

Throughout the film, stories from around Vail evidenced the lack of access and stigma around mental health. Fortunately for Eagle County, their coffers are deep enough to build a whole new facility for this issue. Miller admitted openly that for other small towns, this hill is much steeper.

After the film, the panel opened to a Q&A session.

Miller’s most poignant comment, which drew a large applause, regarded how inefficient our federal government is at addressing the issues of small-town America.

Unfortunately, I was not selected to ask my question to the panel. Luckily, upon conclusion of the event, as

the crowd had departed, I was able to meet with Miller on stage.

We reminisced about the “good-ole days” in Franconia, N.H., when a single parent could afford to take their family skiing and we could hitch-hike back to town after a day of shredding. We both commiserated about how much skiing has transformed. I mentioned my years of driving snowcats in CB (now owned

by Vail Resorts), a place where the cost of living has skyrocketed, while wages have gone nowhere. We peered around the proverbial elephant in the room by concurring that wealth inequity in America has reached a ludicrous stage.

As I finish typing this column in a café in Durango, I glance over at a real estate brochure showcasing the finest properties in the region. My jaw drops as I stagger to imagine how many locals could afford a home in the town where they live. I wonder about the droves of people “moving” to our community to buy second, third or nth homes; so interested in being a part of the community that they only visit a few times a year and rent it out to vacationers for instant profit. Meanwhile, in a market inaccessible to the hourly worker, I have never met a worker who celebrates joyously as they rush to their second or third job in an endless hamster wheel.

In reality, it is this burnout that can push one down the depression spiral.

The dictionary defines “community” as: “the people with common interests living in a particular area.” The key word here is “living.” Visiting your nth home for a few weeks a year and driving the cost of living through the roof is the antithesis to community. This threat is real. I watched it gut CB of the community it once was, and many former residents wrote similar articles verbatim.

I applaud our local government for limiting the number of short-term vacation rental permits. But, the realist in me is skeptical that this alone will keep working class residents in what has become a trophy town. This morning, I parked in front of another small “Great Deals” house for sale. Listed price only $852,000. What a deal! How many hours a minute would one have to work at the local ski-hill, school or restaurant to sit down with a loan officer?

The morning after Miller’s talk, community members organized a panel of mental health experts. Miller brought up an observation he made during his years skiing around the world. He mentioned that, unlike in America, workers at ski resorts in Europe are valued.

Whether it was the cleaner, the bellhop or the taxi driver, people were compen-

Chadwick Dixon, left, and Bode Miller./ Courtesy photo sated appropriately, and that led to a sense of community. He noticed “we” as a culture, as opposed to the “I” culture prevalent in this nation. He related that people valuing each other in the work sector leads to the age-old network called community, which has been severely eroded here. Given how social

media has damaged how we treat each other, is there still hope in a “we” culture? Maybe, if instead of looking at our screens, we see each other and are available in the here and now. Hopefully, this kind of buy-in can offset the other buyin’ to build back the resident communities we need to thrive. ■

It’s not hairy shopping at Jimmy’s.

Hours: Tues. - Fri. 11-6; Sat. 11-5 • www.jimmysmusic.supply 1239 Main Ave., Durango • 970-764-4577

telegraph

Nov. 2, 2023 n 7

TopStory

Propped out of our minds The long-awaited cheat sheet for the Nov. 7, 2023, election

by Telegraph staff

W

hat do Taylor Swift, Travis Kelce, Beyoncé, JayZ, Will Smith and Jada Pinkett all have in common?

They all caught your attention long enough so that we could seamlessly slide into trying to explain convoluted tax reform bills for the 2023 election. See what we did there?

This year’s ballot is a slim one, yet doesn’t lack the dense, complicated jargon that comes with propositions.

Indeed, Proposition HH, for instance, has been criticized by elected officials, the media and campaign organizers as a bill with far reaching implications – implications that no one can’t understand. So that should be a fun one. The other measure on the ballot, Proposition II, is far more straightforward.

And no matter how much this might make your eyes bleed, just enjoy the break, because we all know what’s coming next year…

Proposition HH The 411: OK, this one might kill us. Here we go.

Remember the pandemic? Yeah, neither do we. But regardless, after the pandemic, property values in Colorado skyrocketed, which means people will have to pay higher property taxes next year.

To the rescue, supposedly, is Proposition HH, which aims to reduce these rising property taxes for the next decade. But it comes with a tradeoff: slowly sacrificing those nice TABOR tax refunds we all use for buying that piece of river gear we previously couldn’t justify.

But if only it were that simple. State lawmakers already have the authority to lower property taxes, so why put it on the ballot? Well, because state legislators want to keep more of Coloradoans’ money, which does require a vote.

In reality, whether Prop HH passes or not, property taxes will still rise next year. The proposition, however, would blunt that increase. By how much depends on where you live, what kind of property you own and what it’s worth. (There are actually online calculators where you can plug in the numbers for your situation.)

The catch is that Colorado residents have to give up some of their TABOR refund money. How the state uses that money is complicated. A small portion of it will go to local governments, while about 80% will go to schools.

While some residents may come ahead the first year Prop HH is in effect, down the line, TABOR refunds may completely disappear. By 2032, the state is estimated to collect $2.2 billion that would otherwise go back to taxpayers.

Also, one big misnomer is that Prop HH puts a cap on property tax increase, because local governments can still override the cap. And, after Prop HH expires in 10

8 n Nov. 2, 2023

years, lawmakers can extend it without requiring a vote.

Most experts say residents stand to come out on the losing end financially should this happen.

And let’s not forget renters, who face rent increases and also would lose out on TABOR refunds. Prop HH, though, would require the state to set up a fund to help renters, with up to $20 million available each year.

Oh, that’s not all.

If passed, local governments must provide reasons for raising property tax rates in the future. This process might encourage some local governments to lower rates or issue refunds in prosperous years, potentially saving taxpayers around $500 million statewide. But, the actual savings might be less if governments opt to maintain rates despite public opinion.

telegraph

In addition, Prop HH would make the “senior homestead” property tax exemption portable. Currently, it’s available to those 65 and older who’ve lived in the same home for 10 years, reducing taxable value by up to $100,000. With Prop HH, seniors can keep this benefit if they move, allowing downsizing without losing the exemption.

Those for it say: Prop HH offers long-term property tax relief, supports businesses and lets seniors downsize without losing tax benefits. The new property tax limit ensures accountability by involving the public and giving local governments flexibility to fund essential services. Prop HH benefits public schools by providing additional revenue and helps overcome spending limitations. It provides fairer TABOR refunds,

benefiting low- and middle-income individuals, including renters, amid rising inflation and housing costs.

Those against it say: Prop HH raises taxes by reducing TABOR refunds, potentially increasing the state budget by billions. While it offers property tax relief, it may cost taxpayers more in lost TABOR refunds, and renters lose out.

Local communities should handle property taxes, not a state-imposed limit.

Prop HH complicates the property tax system, creating confusion and administrative burdens.

How we’re voting: Ummm, I don’t think we even still understand it. And therein lies our major issue with the proposition – asking the public to vote on something most people don’t understand. It’s 14 pages in the Blue Book and still doesn’t make sense to most experts and voters. Even Carrie Woodson, La Plata County’s Assessor, whom we hold in the highest regard, made comments at a recent county meeting about how most people can’t explain what the bill’s full impacts would be. If Woodson doesn’t have a full grasp on it, what chance do we have? That’s not good legislation, if you ask us.

Regardless, we’re going with a no

vote. A lot of the proposition is well intentioned – tax relief in the face of historic property values, helping seniors and $20 million in rental assistance.

But the tax cuts could come at the expense of local governments, i.e. roads and bridges, fire departments and other critical community services. And in the end, we all pay for that. La Plata County, for instance, says it could lose around $500,000 if Prop HH passes (a rough estimate).

We recognize the need to address skyrocketing property values in Colorado, some of which are contained in Prop HH. But maybe next time, refine the proposal so the public can actually understand what they’re voting for.

Proposition II The 411: Proposition II poses a rather simple question: Does the state get to use an almost $23.7 million surplus in tobacco taxes mainly for preschool programs, or does it have to give that money back to companies that sell tobacco?

In 2020, Colorado voters approved a ballot measure to raise taxes on things like tobacco and nicotine products with the goal to use the extra money from these taxes to help pay for a program that provides preschool education for all kids.

But it turns out that these taxes brought in more money than expected, around $24 million extra, in fact. So now, Colorado legislators are asking voters whether the government should be allowed to keep this extra money to further fund the preschool program.

If it passes: If Prop II passes, the extra money from the increased taxes on tobacco and nicotine products will be used to support Colorado’s existing preschool program. This program already provides at least 10 hours a week of preschool education for children the year before they start kindergarten, and it also offers instruction for 3- and 4year-olds with disabilities. So, the extra funds will be used to improve and expand this existing preschool program, helping more children access quality early education.

If it fails: The state will need to give back almost $24 million to companies that sell cigarettes and nicotine products by giving them refunds and temporarily reducing the taxes they have to pay. The state will also lower the taxes on nicotine and tobacco products by 11.53% to make sure they don’t collect too much money in taxes in the future.

What supporters say: Supporters

say that raising taxes on tobacco and nicotine products makes people use them less. They also believe that giving more money to Colorado’s preschool program will help kids do better in school and stay healthier.

What opponents say: There’s no organized group opposing Prop II. In arguments against the proposition, the Blue Book says that expanding the government further isn’t needed because the current funding for the preschool program can already offer more than the minimum 10 hours per week required by a previous law. It also says that increasing taxes puts an additional burden on people struggling with addiction.

How we’re voting: Yes. It seems to us this proposition helps families and children in the state access early education – without raising taxes (Prop II is not a new tax; it’s a question of whether the state can keep nearly $24 million in excess collections). We do get the argument that constantly raising taxes on things like tobacco unfairly targets people with addictions.

But in this instance, the state is still maintaining current tax rates. And, there’s just no denying how important early childhood education is. ■

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Nov. 2, 2023 n 9

BetweentheBeats

’Bout to get funky November’s music lineup has a little bit of everything

by Stephen Sellers

G

reetings, dear readers! I hope that your spooky season is transitioning gently into the reality that it’s going to be quite colder and darker for the next five months or so. That your next actual “party” might involve some cable news-informed, geo-political discussions with that special relative (bonus points for sprinkling in religion with the cranberries!)

Yes, my sweet dirtbag, it’s time to switch gears out of Cedar Mesa and The Creek into the library, the Dharma Center or those healing hot springs. Let’s keep dancing through it all!

The last month of music was incredibly epic in Durango, and I hope you got a good taste of the power of community, movement and the kind space we are more than capable of holding for each other and our out town guests.

For a town of 20,000, we’ve got it so dang good here thanks to the hard work of the promoters, barstaff, door folk, venue owners, musicians and people mopping up at the end of the night. Be sure to give them the love and respect they deserve when you’re out this next month. The industry is not for the faint of heart and a kind word really does go a long way. So does buying tickets and showing up to support the things you love and are merely curious about.

Without further ado, here’s five surefire hits for November. See you on the dance floor (or the hot springs!)

• Dirty Chords, People We Know, Alex Graf’s Bluegrass Super PAC at The Wildhorse Saloon, Nov. 8, 6 p.m. – The annual fundraiser for the Durango Bluegrass Meltdown is back, baby! I’ve heard some whispers of the lineup for the actual festival in spring 2024, and is it going to be oh-sosweet. This fundraiser is really important to keeping the whole Bluegrass Meltdown machine churning, so consider stopping by for a late-fall warmup. Alex Graff’s Bluegrass Super PAC is worth the price of admission alone. With the Dirty Chords and People We Know sharing the bill, it’s sure to be a stellar time with Durango’s strongest musical community.

10 n Nov. 2, 2023

Cary Morin is headed to Durango on Nov. 10./ Courtesy photo • Cary Morin & Ghost Dog at the Community Concert Hall, Nov. 10, 7:30 p.m. – Fort Collins-based Americana artist Cary Morin’s career began in the 1970s and took him to international acclaim with his band The Atoll in the late 1990s. With a career in the arts that spans dancing, writing plays and relentless touring, and now with his band Ghost Dog, this is a night of music with a treasure trove of a human being.

• Jade Oracle and Nu Bass Theory at iAM Music’s iNDIGO Room, Nov. 11, 8 p.m. – The iAM Music family is back from a very vibey fall music festival with a more intimate offering at the iNDIGO Room this month. Continuing to carry the torch of soulful music in town, iAM welcomes Jade Oracle with local favs Nu Bass Theory ready to funk.

• The Librarian at Animas City Theatre, Nov. 14, 7:00 p.m. – There’s a legend in electronic music coming to town and her name is Andrea Graham aka The Librarian. Her past performance highlights include small little ditties like Coachella, Electric Forest and Lightning

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in a Bottle, all while touring the entire freaking world relentlessly. Now, maybe you love bass music. Or, maybe something like “The Harlem Shake” ruined it for you. Or maybe like me, you’re a little bass-curious … Regardless of where you’re coming from, you should buy a ticket to this. It will be quite a memorable experience, to say the least.

Did I mention they’re bringing in a high-falutin’ Hennessey sound system for this? Duh. See you there!

• Bonnie and Taylor Sims at Animas City Theatre, Nov. 16, 8 p.m. – It’s not often we have shows in Durango with artists who have garnered hundreds of millions of streams, but here we are with Bonnie and Taylor Sims coming to town. The duo is known for their unique approach to Western-tinged folk music, and has a record deal with Columbia and extensive list of past performances around the world to back it up.

Opening this show is the local wunderkind Julianne Marqua (my former student! You rock, Jules! You’re doing it!) ■

MurderInk

Theater of the mind Gifted story stylist Rader-Day weaves exquisite fabric from raw material

by Jeffrey Mannix

L

ori Rader-Day is back with her seventh paperback from the William Morrow Books imprint of Harper Collins. “The Death of Us” was released quietly one week ago with a ho-hum publicity campaign for a crime fiction writer I have admired since 2014. Her first big-label appearance of “The Black Hour” won her a prestigious Anthony Award for Best First Novel. Then, in 2016, Rader-Day wowed them again with Simon & Schuster’s Mary Higgins Clark Award for “Little Pretty Things,” a book I personally think is one of the best crime fictions written by an American author. In addition, she has won three Anthony Awards and an Agatha Award in 2021 for the Best Historical Novel with “Death at Greenway.”

Why William Morrow does not put Rader-Day between cloth covers and spend some money to position her where she belongs with the big dogs, simply bewilders me. I even expressed my outrage to her on the phone a few years ago after “Little Pretty Things” swept my feet out from under me, I found a reserved, thoughtful and comfortable young Chicagoan with a husband and a dog. She also is a cochair with the Midwest Mystery Conference, a past president of Sisters in Crime and a teacher of creative writing for Northwestern University.

However, she said she is satisfied, and her work is satisfying, too. So, I’ll keep my career counseling to myself and tease you into spending 20 bucks to share Lori Rader-Day’s report on the curious machinations of a small town that appears to operate under clearly established codes of civility, until it doesn’t. RaderDay is a very fine, simple storyteller who appears to be in no hurry and with no need to embellish to complicate her carefully spun yarns. The yarn in “The Death of Us” is peopled with crosscut characters described by their actions, not by continuous fleshing

out of their personalities, tics and prejudices. With Rader-Day, her players carry the plot, not the other way around. And that approach is how people operate. We don’t know everybody’s secrets, how they got to be who they are, their sins and fault lines, until they show us.

“The Death of Us” begins as a simple police procedural when a few high school kids cut football practice to go for a joyride in Tanner Larkin’s fancy new car. They wind up sucked off a tight curve and up a dirt embankment nearly into an old water-filled quarry at Link and Lissette Kehoe’s place. The school is alerted. Marshall Mercer Alaric arrives, along with worried parents, hoping to find their kids unhurt. In a panic, Liss shows up to be absolutely sure her son Callan has been saved from her irrational fear that he will disappear from her life any moment.

You see, Callan was days old when he was handed to Liss on her doorstep in the pouring rain by an angry, drunk Ashley Hay 15 years ago. Link admitted

to having an affair with Ashley and was the father of the boy. Liss clung to Callan with the fear that Ashley would some day return to claim her child.

Liss hovered over Callan in constant worry of losing him.

This day, in the mud of the steep bank, Callan himself pointed out to Marshal Alaric a hulk of a car submerged under water in the quarry – a car just like Ashley’s. Was it Ashley? Was it murder? Did Link get rid of what could turn out to be a lifetime of extortion? Could it be suicide? If we knew more about the actors, if Rader-Day would give us more to dissect, something more than cardboard cutouts who don’t give away anything, we could surmise, deduce and solve this case.

But we don’t even know what these characters look like – the color of their hair, their height, weight – or even their feelings.

We know nothing about the players aside from the parts they play. And Rader-Day weaves fabric out of raw material, creating theater of the mind. How exciting.

Don’t miss “The Death of Us” by this wonderful stylist. And don’t forget to ask for your 15% Murder Ink discount from our precious Maria’s Bookshop. ■

Local Appreciation Half-Price Shipping Has Started!

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Stop in, call or order online: DietzMarket.com.

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970-259-5811 • 26345 HWY 160/550 • 1 mile SE of the Durango Mall

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Nov. 2, 2023 n 11

StufftoDo

Thursday02 Thursday Night Sitting Group, 5:30-6:15 p.m., Durango Dharma Center, 1800 E. 3rd Ave, Suite 109.

Bluegrass Jam, 6 p.m., Durango Beer & Ice, 3000 Main Ave. Live music, 6-9 p.m., The Office & Diamond Belle, 699 Main Ave. Trivia Night, 6:30 p.m., Powerhouse Science Center, 1330 Camino del Rio. Dia de los Muertos Bingo, 7 p.m., Zia’s North, 2977 Main Ave. First Thursdays Songwriter Night, 7 p.m., The iNDIGO Room, 1315 Main Ave.

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

Friday03

The Rocky Horror Show, 7 p.m., Durango Arts Center, 802 E. 2nd Ave. “Nevermore: The Imaginary Life and Mysterious Death of Edgar Allen Poe,” 7:30 p.m., FLC’s Main Stage Theatre.

First Irie Friday Reggae Dance, 9 p.m., Roxy’s, 693 Main Ave.

Saturday04 Hesperus Ski Patrol Ski Swap, 8 a.m. – 4 p.m., La Plata County Fairgrounds, 2500 Main Ave. Bayfield Farmers Market, 8:30 a.m., 1328 CR 501, Bayfield.

Four Corners Vinyl Record Club’s Record Show, 9 a.m.-3 p.m., Holiday Inn & Suites, 21636 Highway 160.

11th St. Station Anniversary Party, 11:30 a.m.12:30 a.m., 11th St. Station.

Friends of the Library Book Sale, 9:30 a.m.-4 p.m., Durango Public Library.

Friends of the Library Book Sale, 9:30 a.m.-4 p.m., Durango Public Library.

Pumpkin and Leaf Drop-Off, 10 a.m.-12 noon and 1-3 p.m., La Plata County Fairgrounds, 2500 Main Ave.

Pumpkin & Leaf Drop-Off, 10 a.m.-12 noon and 1-3 p.m., La Plata County Fairgrounds, 2500 Main Ave.

Free Legal Clinic, 4 p.m., Ignacio Library.

EDM Party, 9 p.m.-1 a.m., Roxy’s, 693 Main Ave. Silent Disco, 10 p.m.-12:30 a.m., 11th St. Station.

Sunday05 Durango Flea Market, 8 a.m., La Plata County Fairgrounds, 2500 Main Ave. Veteran Benefit Breakfast, 9 a.m., VFW Post 4031, 1550 Main Ave. Pumpkin and Leaf Drop-Off, 10 a.m.-12 noon and 1-3 p.m., La Plata County Fairgrounds, 2500 Main Ave.

Free Friday Yoga, 8:30 a.m., Lively (a boutique), 809 Main Ave.

Open Meditation, 12 noon-1 p.m., Durango Dharma Center, 1800 E. 3rd Ave, Suite 109.

“Nevermore: The Imaginary Life and Mysterious Death of Edgar Allen Poe,” 7:30 p.m., FLC’s Main Stage Theatre.

Jimmy Buffett Music Video Night, 7:30 p.m., Animas City Theatre.

Durango Train Pull, 11 a.m., Durango & Silverton Narrow Gauge Railroad, train depot.

Vinyl Sundaze, 12 noon, Lola’s Place, 725 E. 2nd Ave. Live music, 12:30 p.m., Durango Beer and Ice, 3000 Main Ave. “Nevermore: The Imaginary Life and Mysterious Death of Edgar Allen Poe,” 2 p.m., FLC’s Main Stage Theatre.

Carute Roma plays, 2 p.m., Mancos Brewing Co.

Girls on the Run 5K, 11 a.m., 175 Mercado St.

Feed the People! free aid for homeless community members, 2 p.m., Buckley Park.

The ArtRoom Collective First Friday Crawl, 4 p.m., Smiley Building, 1309 E. 2nd Ave.

Durango High School Troupe 1096 presents “The Hobbit,” showings at 2 p.m. & 7 p.m., Durango High School, 2390 Main Ave.

First Friday Art Crawl, 4 p.m., downtown Durango.

Pete Giuliani plays, 5:30 p.m., Public House 701, 701 E. 2nd Ave.

Artist Collective Opening Reception, 5-7 p.m., Animas Chocolate Company, 920 Main Ave.

Live music, 6-9 p.m., The Office & Diamond Belle, 699 Main Ave.

Dancing, 6 p.m., VFW. Instruction followed by open dancing at 7:45 p.m. DurangoDancing.com.

Karaoke, 6 p.m., Durango Beer and Ice, 3000 Main Ave.

Live music, 6-9 p.m., The Office & Diamond Belle, 699 Main Ave.

Community Yoga, 6-7 p.m., Yoga Durango, 1485 Florida Rd. Donations accepted.

Happy Hour Yoga, 5:30 p.m., Ska Brewing, 225 Girard St.

Young Professionals of Durango Fall-iday Party, 6:30 p.m., Sky Ute Casino, Ignacio.

Live Irish Traditional Music, 7 p.m., The Subterrain, 900 Main Ave., Suite F.

Meditation and Dharma Talk, 5:30 p.m., Durango Dharma Center, 1800 E. 3rd Ave. In person or online at durangodharmacenter.org

Durango High School Troupe 1096 presents “The Hobbit,” 7 p.m., Durango High School, 2390 Main Ave.

The Rocky Horror Show, 7 p.m., Durango Arts Center, 802 E. 2nd Ave.

Join us Nov. 4 for our 6th Anniversary!

1135 Main Ave. • DGO, CO

12 n Nov. 2, 2023

Shimmy Mob, 11:30 a.m. l Reeder & Spencer, 12 noon Quaffing Tournament, 2 p.m. l Tarot Card Readings, 2 p.m.

FLC Cheer performance, 6 p.m. l Garrett Young, 7 p.m.

Silent Disco w/DJ Spark Madden, 10 p.m.

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Live music, 6-9 p.m., The Office & Diamond Belle, 699 Main Ave. Sunday Funday, 6 p.m., Starlight Lounge, 937 Main Ave. The Rocky Horror Show, 7 p.m., Durango Arts Center, 802 E. 2nd Ave.

Monday06

Live music, 6-9 p.m., The Office & Diamond Belle, 699 Main Ave.

Fall Fa ll is abl blaz aze And so is our inventory for the season with a great selection of boots, jackets, sweaters and jeans from brands like Madewell, Patagonia, Sundance & Kühl Buy • Sell • Trade • Consign ~ Home Furnishings ~ Clothing ~ Accessories ~ Jewelry 572 E. 6th Ave. • 970-385-7336

AskRachel

Speed humps, puppy love and starting slow Interesting fact: Matthew Perry was the only one of the “Friends” never to be nominated for a Razzie Award. He truly was the best of us. Godspeed, Chandler Bing.

Dear Rachel, The cork screw at 15th and Florida is going to change. How about putting speed bumps on 15th, 3rd and Florida? When you bump on the hump they will thank you for the idea. It will slow the speeders and save a life. Your thoughts on this cork screw intersection? The city will love you if it’s done.

–Bump Out Dear Speed Hump, Yeah, I bet the city really would love me if I humped on the bump. It would spawn a whole new term. You’ve all heard of Florida Man; well, how about Florida Woman? You pronounce the first word completely differently, but the general spirit is the same. Did you hear what Florida Woman did to the bicyclist statues this time? Oh good god no, not THAT! Actually, I’m going to remember this for next Halloween. All I’d need is a stuffed alligator and a drunken stripe painted down my middle.

–Bumpin’ it, Rachel Dear Rachel, A professional acquaintance put me in touch with another of his professional acquaintances for some professional acquaintComedy Showcase, 7:30 p.m., Starlight, 937 Main.

Tuesday07 Community Yoga, 4:30-5:30 p.m., Yoga Durango, 1485 Florida Rd. Donations accepted.

Bighorn Celebration, 5:30-7:30 p.m., DoubleTree, 501 Camino del Rio. Slow Bluegrass Jam, 5:30-7:30 p.m., General Palmer Hotel, 567 Main Ave.

ancing. We emailed all we needed to for professional reasons, but one friendly reference to a dog spawned a email thread of dog stories and pictures, which has turned into biographical summaries, which has turned rather personal and vulnerable. I think I might be technically dating someone I’ve never met now. How do I know how to count our “dates” for base-counting purposes?

–You’ve Got Mail Dear Inbox Romance, Ah, the intricacies of online dating, especially when the other party doesn’t know you’re dating. The other person is probably just very, very lonely! You are someone they can write to during the work day while appearing very, very busy to their supervisor. The odds that you are very, very mistaken are very, very high.

And if you’re not catching the hint, the only base in play is the one you are very, very far off of.

–Stee-rike, Rachel Dear Rachel, I’m trying to be in better shape. Especially with the holidays coming. But every time I try exercising, I hurt myself, which means I can’t move for a month, and then I’m in worse shape than when I started. I know this is a sign that I need to be in better shape. I start as easy as possible, but this keeps happening. How do I break the cycle?

– Round is a Shape cost for cancer patients, survivors and caregivers, Smiley Building, 1309 E. 3rd Ave. Info and register at cancersupportswco.org/calendar Green Business Roundtable, featuring speaker Drea Pressley, 12 noon, Powerhouse Science Center, 1333 Camino del Rio. Open Mic, 6:30 p.m., EsoTerra Ciderworks, 558 Main.

“A Closer Look at the Velarde Valley of New Mexico,” 7-8:30 p.m., FLC’s Lyceum Room. Presented by San Juan Basin Archaeological Society.

telegraph@durangotelegraph.com Dear Circular Logic, How easy are you starting? Because if I know anything about exercise, it’s that you can count literally any movement as more calories burned. Do you drum your fingers on the steering wheel? No? Start! That’s extra movement. Do you shake your legs when you’re sitting still? Drink some coffee and get the jitters!

Coffee keep you up at night? Good! Being awake burns more calories, probably. Driving down Florida?

Give an extra hump! Didn’t catch all that? Read this answer again, and you just burned twice the fat.

– And one, and two, Rachel

Upcoming Durango Independent Film Festival presents “Best of the Fest,” Nov. 9, 7 p.m., Durango Arts Center, 802 E. 2nd Ave. Troupe 1096 presents “The Hobbit,” Nov. 10-11 at 7 p.m., Durango High School, 2390 Main Ave. Cary Morin & Ghost Dog play, Nov. 10, 7:30 p.m., FLC’s Community Concert Hall.

“Nevermore: The Imaginary Life and Mysterious Death of Edgar Allen Poe,” Nov. 9-11 at 7:30 p.m., FLC’s Main Stage Theatre.

Rotary Club of Durango, speaker Salvation Army’s Carla Wood, 6 p.m., Strater Hotel, 699 Main Ave.

Trivia Night, 7 p.m., Bottom Shelf Brewery, Bayfield.

Author Event & Book Signing: Ursula Goodenough, 6 p.m., Maria’s Bookshop, 960 Main Ave.

Geeks Who Drink Trivia, 8 p.m., The Roost, 128 E. College Dr.

Carute Roma plays, Nov. 11, 6-9 p.m., Union Social House, 3062 Main Ave.

Live music, 6-9 p.m., The Office, 699 Main Ave.

Karaoke Roulette, 8 p.m., Starlight, 937 Main Ave.

Jade Oracle with Nu Bass Theory plays, Nov. 11, 8-10 p.m., The iNDIGO Room, 1315 Main Ave.

Man to Man Prostate Cancer Support Group, 6:30 p.m., via Zoom. prostategroupdurango@gmail.com Open Mic, 7 p.m., Starlight Lounge, 937 Main Ave.

Wednesday08 Restorative Yoga for Cancer, 9:30-10:45 a.m., no

Ongoing “The Return of the Force,” art exhibit exploring the influence of “Star Wars” on Native artists, FLC’s Center for Southwest Studies. Runs thru August 2024.

“Sine Language” exhibit by Christine Cassano, 4:30-6 p.m., FLC’s Lyceum Auditorium.

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Business After Hours, Nov. 16, 5 p.m., Durango Harley-Davidson, 750 Camino del Rio. Backcountry Film Festival, Nov. 16, 5:30 p.m., Durango Arts Center, 802 E. 2nd Ave. Mean Mary plays, Nov. 17, Wild Horse, 601 E. 2nd Nov. 2, 2023 n 13

FreeWillAstrology

by Rob Brezsny ARIES (March 21-April 19): “Our bodies sometimes serve as the symbolic ground where order and disorder fight for supremacy,” wrote storyteller Caroline Kettlewell.

Here’s good news, Aries: For you, order will triumph over disorder in the coming weeks. In part through your willpower and in part through life’s grace, you will tame the forces of chaos and enjoy a phase when most everything makes sense. I don’t mean you will have zero problems, but I suspect you will have an enhanced power to solve problems.

TAURUS (April 20-May 20): I recently endured a three-hour root canal. Terrible and unfortunate, right? No! Because it brought profound joy. The endodontist gave me nitrous oxide, and the resulting euphoria unleashed a wild epiphany. For the duration of the surgery, I had vivid visions of all the people in my life who love me. Never before had I been blessed with such a blissful gift. Now, in accordance with your astrological omens, I invite you to induce a similar experience – no nitrous oxide needed. It’s a perfect time to meditate on how well you are appreciated and cherished.

GEMINI (May 21-June 20): Unless you are very unusual, you don’t sew your clothes or grow your food. You didn’t build your house, make your furniture or forge your cooking utensils. Like most of us, you know little about how water and electricity arrive for your use. Do you have any notion of what your grandparents were doing when they were your age? Have you said a prayer of gratitude recently for the people who have given you so much? I don’t mean to put you on the spot with my questions, Gemini. I’m merely hoping to inspire you to get into closer connection with everything that nourishes and sustains you.

CANCER (June 21-July 22): Cancerian singer-songwriter Suzanne Vega has had a modest but sustained career. With nine albums, she has sold more than three million records, but is not in the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame. She has said, “I always thought that if I were popular, I must be doing something wrong.” I interpret that to mean she has sought to remain faithful to her idiosyncratic creativity and not pay homage to formulaic success. But here’s the good news for you in the coming months, fellow Cancerian: You can be more

14 n Nov. 2, 2023

appreciated than ever before simply by being true to your soul’s inclinations and urges.

cal omens, I propose that you Scorpios seek out comparable amazements.

LEO (July 23-Aug. 22): “Everything in the world has a hidden meaning,” wrote Greek author Nikos Kazantzakis. Did he really mean everything? Your dream last night, your taste in shoes, your favorite TV show, the way you laugh? As a fun experiment, let’s say that yes, everything has a hidden meaning. Let’s also hypothesize that the current astrological omens suggest you now have a special talent for discerning veiled and camouflaged truths. Do you have the courage and determination to go deeper than you have ever dared? I believe you do.

SAGITTARIUS (Nov. 22-Dec. 21): Sagittarian novelist Shirley Jackson wrote, “No live organism can continue for long to exist under conditions of absolute reality; even larks and katydids dream.” Since she wrote that, scientists have gathered evidence that almost all animals dream and that dreaming originated at least 300 million years ago. With that as our inspiration and in accordance with astrological omens, I urge you to enjoy an intense period of tapping into your dreams.

VIRGO (Aug. 23-Sept. 22): How many glowworms would have to gather in one location to make a light as bright as the sun? Probably more than a trillion. And how many ants would be required to carry away a 15-pound basket of food? I’m guessing more than 90,000. Luckily for you, the cumulative small efforts you need to perform so as to accomplish big breakthroughs won’t be nearly that high a number. For instance, you may be able to take a quantum leap after just six baby steps.

LIBRA (Sept. 23-Oct. 22): In the 17th century, John Milton wrote a long narrative poem titled “Paradise Lost.” I’ve never read it and am conflicted about the prospect of doing so. On one hand, I feel I should engage with a work that has had such a potent influence on Western philosophy and literature. On the other hand, I’m barely interested in Milton’s story, which includes boring conversations between God and Satan and the dreary tale of how God cruelly exiled humans from paradise because the first man, Adam, was mildly rebellious. So what should I do? I’ve decided to read the Cliffs Notes study guide, a brief summary of the story. In accordance with astrological omens, I suggest you call on similar shortcuts, Libra.

SCORPIO (Oct. 23-Nov. 21): Who would have guessed that elephants can play the drums really well? On a trip to Thailand, Scorpio musician Dave Soldier discovered that if given sticks and drums, some elephants kept a steadier beat than humans. A few were so talented that Soldier recorded their rhythms and played them for a music critic who couldn’t tell they were created by animals. In accordance with astrologi-

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CAPRICORN (Dec. 22-Jan. 19): Capricorn writer Kahlil Gibran believed an essential human longing is to be revealed. We all want the light in us to be taken out of its hiding place and shown. If his idea is true about you, you will experience major cascades of gratification in the coming months. I believe you will be extra expressive. And you will encounter more people than ever before who are interested in knowing what you have to express. To prepare for the probable breakthroughs, investigate whether you harbor any fears or inhibitions about being revealed – and dissolve them.

AQUARIUS (Jan. 20-Feb. 18): November is Build Up Your Confidence Month. In the coming weeks, you are authorized to snag easy victories as you steadily bolster your courage to seek bigger, bolder triumphs. As much as possible, put yourself in the vicinity of people who respect you and like you. If you suspect you have secret admirers, encourage them to be less secretive.

Do you have plaques, medals or trophies? Display them prominently. Or visit a trophy store and have new awards made for you to commemorate your unique skills – like thinking wild thoughts, pulling off one-of-a-kind adventures and inspiring your friends to rebel against their habits.

PISCES (Feb. 19-March 20): I’m glad we have an abundance of teachers helping us learn how to be here now – to focus on the present moment with gratitude and grace. I love the fact that books on the art of mindfulness are now almost as common as books about cats and cooking. Yay! But I also want to advocate for the importance of letting our minds wander freely. Imaginative ruminating is central to the creative process.

Now please give your mind the privilege of wandering far and wide in the coming weeks, Pisces.

classifieds

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

(Sorry, no refunds or substitutions.)

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

Announcements Friday 7pm Dancing now at VFW Go to DurangoDancing.com to get on notification list.

KDUR is Celebrating 50 years of broadcasting in 2025, and we are on the hunt for past DJs. If you did a show and have a fond memory, story or maybe even some recorded material to share, please email station manager Bryant Liggett, Liggett_b@fortlewis.edu or call 970.247.7261

Classes/Workshops Divorce & Custody Legal Pres.

Rescheduled: Free Divorce & Custody Legal Presentation at the Durango Public Library and via Zoom on November 7th at 5:30PM-7:00PM. For more information, please visit durangovap.com/events or call 970-247-0266.

Free Anxiety Workshop Licensed Psychologist Dr. Doug Miller, PsyD, is offering a free anxiety workshop on Tuesday, November 14th from 6:00 pm - 7:30 pm at Summit Church Durango, 2917 Aspen Drive, to address ways to live with anxiety. If anxiety interferes with your ability to live a full and meaningful life, then this engaging workshop is for you. Please join this free community event that will add value to your living a more fruitful life.

Why and When Yoga Hurts Dr. Keneen Hope free Zoom Workshop Nov 2, 6-7:15 pm. www.hopechiroyoga.com/workshops 303-513-8055

HelpWanted Massage Therapists Needed Amaya is hiring! Massage therapist part-time positions Email triciagourley13@gmail.com or drop off resume to apply.

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

970-259-3494.

ForSale "Got Water Rights?"

Do you have water rights? Well, then you probably know about the Department of Water Resources’ mandate and time limit. Sold in DIY kits or fully assembled and welded, these professionally fabricated Parshall flumes, diversion boxes locally made and are fully ASTM compliant. Yours can be reserved starting October 2023 and delivered directly to your property in time for seasonal install 2024. Call 1 (970) 946-5206 to reserve your flume(s) & install dates - 2023 pricing available until December 20, 2023.

Reruns Home Furnishings Brighten up your space with furniture and décor for moving in like dressers, coffee table, cabinets, kitchenwares, nightstands, rugs, cool lamps and small tables. Looking to consign smaller furniture pieces … 572 E. 6th Ave. Open Mon.-Sat. 385-7336.

Services Marketing Small/Local Businesses Media, website building and content editing, copywriting and editing, newsletters, blogs, etc. for small, local, independent or startup businesses. www.thesaltymedia.com or email jn derge@gmail.com

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HaikuMovieReview Wilderness Wellness Adventure Edu LifeWays is your local community for wilderness adventures and one-onone mentorship for youth, young adults and families. Access your local public lands with trained professionals dedicated to helping you find your path through the ups and downs. Hire a LifeWays guide to support you and your family! chris@lifewayscommunity .com or www.lifewayscommunity.com.

‘The Extra Man’ Quirky, delightful comedy that could only take place in New York – Lainie Maxson

Autumn Massage Deals Deep tissue, clinical, sports, rehabilitative, restorative body work sessions.

20% off autumn deal for new clients. [ $100 for 90 minutes ] Call or text Dennis to schedule @ 970.403.5451 Massage by Meg Bush LMT, 30, 60 & 90 min., 970-7590199.

Procrastination? Stressed? Fearful?

Professional Hypnosis Therapy with Susan Urban, CHT, HA, can help you use your own brain for positive change.

Relaxing. Profound. Great results in the privacy of your own home. 970-2479617.

Harmony Cleaning and Organizing Residential, offices, commercial and vacation rentals, 970-403-6192.

Lowest Prices on Storage!

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

BodyWork Hair Sparkle Sol Sparkle Hair Tinsel Sat 10/28 & 11/18, 11am-2pm, 12/1, 4-7pm Animas Trading Co

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

CommunityService Adaptive Sports Volunteer Training Nov. 11, 11 a.m. -12 noon; Nov. 14, 2-3 p.m. & 6-7 p.m.; Nov. 15, 11 a.m. – 12 noon & 6-7 p.m. Returning volunteer orientations: Nov. 11, 10-11 a.m.; Nov. 14, 1-2 p.m. & 5-6 p.m.; Nov. 15, 10-11 a.m. & 5-6 p.m. 463 Turner Dr. #105 (ASA Headquarters). No RSVP required and volunteers need only attend one session. 970-259-0374 or email: program@asadurango.com.

Grief Counseling The Grief Center of Southwest Colorado is offering free grief counseling services for children, teens and young adults with one of our graduate interns.

Please contact us below if interested.

Email: griefcenterswco@gmail.com Phone: 970-764-7142 Nov. 2, 2023 n 15

16 n Nov. 2, 2023

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