The Durango Telegraph publishes every Thursday, come hell, high water, tacky singletrack or mon-
The courtesy stop may seem like the polite thing to do, but please don’t by Jennaye Derge On the cover Packrafters take in the views in the Dolores River Canyon, south of Gateway, last weekend./ Photo by Jennaye Derge
Ear to the ground:
“I remember my post-graduate years in Durango. I worked at the wine bar and closed down Orio’s Roadhouse every night.”
– Hey, we don’t blame you. The real world can wait for at least a few more Purple F*ckers.
Blue Lakes blues
We’ve likely all seen the Instagram posts of turquoise waters framed by towering spires and colorful wildflowers. And apparently so has everyone else, making the Blue Lakes area near Ouray – like many other picturesque high-alpine spots – a victim of its own well-publicized beauty.
CAST: Doug Gonzalez, Barbara Vasquez,
ster
But if you want to see the shimmering waters for yourself, you’ll have to wait.
Overuse, resource damage, trash, human waste, congested trails and user conflicts have taken their toll, prompting the Grand Mesa, Uncompahgre and Gunnison (GMUG) National Forests to implement a plan to protect the once-pristine 16,000-acre area. As part of the first phase of that plan, the Blue Lakes area will be closed from June 2 through August to allow crews to repair trails, improve parking and install two new vault toilets.
In addition to this, the forest will install kiosks, interpretive panels and signage, catalog invasive plants, install temporary fences to preserve restored areas and develop an improved monitoring and outreach plans. The Forest Service will also build designated campsites and restore impacted sites through a partnerships with the National Forest Foundation and Southwest Conservation Corps.
The work is being funded by the Great American Outdoors Act (GAOA).
The closure starts at the Forest Service boundary at the end of CR 7 and extends to the Mount Sneffels Wilderness boundary. Portions of the Dallas and Wilson Creek trails will also be closed.
The closure is expected to remain through August and will be lifted as soon as it is deemed safe to do so. After the work, Blue Lakes will go to a permit-only system, which is expected to be in place by spring 2026.
User-created trails at the Lower Blue Lake. / Photo by U.S. Forest Service
LaVidaLocal opinion Borders,
thresholds and genres
It’s that time of the year again – concert tour season! Have you been able to catch a show in 2025 yet? At the beginning of this month, I traveled to Los Angeles with a friend to see Beyoncé’s opening weekend of her “Cowboy Carter and Rodeo Chitlin' Circuit Tour.” This was my first visit to L.A. and my second Beyoncé concert. I first saw her perform in Las Vegas nearly two years ago during her “Renaissance Tour.” This most recent album differs a bit from the first, in that it sparked controversy from the self-appointed gatekeepers of country music. But like the Native art I wrote about in my last article, country music is an eclectic mix of arts, knowledge and history, and we would be remiss to ignore that.
“Cowboy Carter” focuses on the whitewashing of Black American music, culture and history. The country genre is a collection of different instruments and styles found within the American South, including blues and gospel. The banjo, an instrument found within this style of music, was created when enslaved West Africans brought knowledge of items like the gourdmade akonting with them to the Americas. These facets of black artistry, Knowles argues, are intrinsically part of American culture. How can one be separated from the other? Through systemic racism and discrimination, that’s how.
was said that Riddle’s influence on the Carter family helped shape country music. The music the two men recorded together would go on to further define country music. But due to the discrimination enshrined in laws like Jim Crow, Riddle would not be credited.
In a twist of fate, Beyoncé’s married name, Carter, matches the surname of the aforementioned Carter family. By naming her album “Cowboy Carter,” she stakes claim in the country genre. In so doing, she honors the unrecognized black artists who’s melodies and lyrics gave rise to country music today. Not only that, but she continues the legacy of this American-made music, further propelling us toward the future by looking back at what had come before.
The namesake for Beyoncé’s album, Alvin Pleasant Carter, aka A.P., was a white musician who was part of the “first family of country” (his brother Ezra Carter was the father of June Carter Cash). In the 1930s, A.P. travelled throughout the South with Lesley Riddle, a black musician. Together, they recorded lyrics and harmonies of the songs that were shared with them. It
Thumbin’It
The locals making a strong showing at the Iron Horse, with Cobe Freeburn winning the men’s road race, followed by locals Kai Lokey and Emmett McManus. Freeburn also won the mens MTB race, and McManus and Kaylee Blevins won their respective categories in the gravel race.
Good news in the fight against Alzheimer’s. Apparently, an anti-viral drug already on the market – used to treat AIDs – shows promise in preventing the degenerative brain disease – which is coming for us all.
Hey everybody, Animas River Days is this weekend. Get out there, and celebrate fun in the whitewater while we still can –the snowpack is going quick.
We entered SoFi stadium, where her concert was, via Gate 11, on the eastern side of the building. It is a massive, recently built arena that is home to the Los Angeles Chargers football team. After visiting the bar and the merch table, we spiraled down into the stadium via staircases and escalators. Eventually, we found our way down to C114, located on the first floor. Sitting next to me were couples from across the West. One was from Santa Fe and the other from San Francisco. We all crossed miles of road and terrain to be here.
For the next three hours, the metaphorical barriers placed between the crowd fizzled away. Despite being divided into different sections and floors, we were all united by the words being sung to us that night. It felt like the veil between the past, the present and the future had been pierced. In a transition between the songs, big bold letters appeared on the screen that summed up the entire experience: “Never ask permission for something that already belongs to you.”
– Doug Gonzalez
SignoftheDownfall:
Trump’s big, butt-ugly bill has passed the House and is awaiting passage in the Senate. If it passes, we can look forward to assaults on clean energy, the environment, human rights and health care.
And speaking of Trump, he is tackling even more pressing issues by pardoning an Atlanta reality show couple, Todd and Julie Chrisley, convicted of $36 million in fraud. Not sure if anyone can pardon their frosted tips and bleached teeth, though.
Save the bats! Scientists have discovered a new strain of the fungus that causes white-nose disease “that could deliver the killer blow” to the North American bat population. Say you don’t like bats? Consider this: not only are they valuable pollinators, but they eat mosquitoes.
Receding Heir-line
The founders of Enhanced Games believe that “the benefits of science can be harnessed safely and should be celebrated in sports.” So, next May in Las Vegas, they’re putting on their own version of the Olympics, wherein athletes are encouraged to use steroids, and they’ll earn million-dollar prizes for breaking lifting, track or aquatic records. But really, the whole thing is just a gimmick to get fans to pay $99 to become “founding members” of Enhanced Games’ program to sell more steroids. And of course, Donald Trump Jr. is backing the event, which makes total sense given that he’ll feel comfortable around other men who also have shriveled testicles.
SoapBox D-Tooned/
Land use plan wrong
To develop a commercial property in La Plata County, a land use permit is required to obtain a building permit. The La Plata Land Use Code (LPLUC) defines all land uses other than residential as requiring either a major or minor permit. Major use permits are reviewed by elected county commissioners, and minor use permits are reviewed by the appointed Planning Commission.
In all areas of La Plata County, except the Animas Valley, commercial developments exceeding 3 acres (including RV parks) are considered to be major uses and thus have a more extensive review process. In the Animas Valley, there are no required major use reviews, because every use is considered minor. All proposed projects are reviewed only by appointed planning commissioners. You may wonder, why are the rules for the Animas Valley different from what the residents initiated back in 1993?
Well, it turns out the Animas Valley Land Use Plan (AVLUP) was amended in February 2017 to change all special uses from major to minor use. This change was proposed by the Planning Department via an administrative amendment.
The revised AVLUP makes it easier for developers, such as Roberts Resort, to come into the valley and build without elected officials’ input. This is especially troubling considering that in 1993, a group of valley residents, with the support of the majority of valley residents, worked tirelessly to establish protective zoning in the Animas Valley. So the Animas Valley went from having a full zoning code to something less than what is available to the rest of the county. The revised AVLUP wrongs Animas Valley residents by denying them zoning that was established in 1993 or even having the same protections as the rest of the county.
Most disturbing was the lack of information given in public notices by the Planning Department at that time. Only the first notice of the Planning Commission meetings mentioned an administrative amendment, with no description of the proposed changes. The same pattern applied to the two BoCC meetings. Five meetings were held where no proper notification on impacts were provided to Animas Valley residents!
Residents could only see changes if they downloaded and then stumbled upon the voluminous agenda packages
by Rob Pudim
where AVLUP changes appeared in the last 25 pages. With this tactic, Animas residents did not know to attend any meetings, because no one knew what was being revised and how it would impact them.
The AVLUP was negatively changed in 2017 with no notification cards mailed and no neighborhood meetings to explain how the change would im-
pact residents. This is akin to amending rules in the dark of night to keep the public uninformed. It’s puzzling why the change was proposed in the first place. Who stood to benefit while the residents pay the price? How many other developments will be approved in this discriminatory manner?
When Animas Valley residents brought this up in 2024 with county
commissioners, they were told the AVLUP could be revised. After a revised version was provided to the county last October, everyone has since chosen to ignore both the revision and the residents. How can this be called fair and equal representation? It is a mystery as to why the county refuses to correct this egregious act from 2017.
Animas Valley residents have a simple request to county commissioners: Quit discriminating against the Animas Valley, and restore major use permitting to the Animas Valley Land Use Plan just like as it is in the rest of the county. Until this can be changed, impose a moratorium on all special use and land use changes.
– Anita Rancatti, Animas
Valley
Attacks on community health
The headlines tell the story: Medicaid slashed by $880 billion, Medicare by $500 billion. The hugely popular Affordable Care Act has been deeply compromised. Cuts to the Veterans Administration have severely understaffed VA hospitals, leaving veterans needing care in empty hallways. Why?
Why is the healthcare system we have – staffed with competent, caring providers and equipped with the best technology – being gutted by this administration? What will the impacts be on the American people, and who will be hardest hit? Will some groups be immune from these attacks? What will happen to our hospitals and clinics – especially rural hospitals – AND our local and national economy? What crisis should we brace for in health outcomes such as maternal and infant mortality?
Who stands to benefit from this imposed crisis? That part is obvious; it’s not the American people.
At noon Sat., May 31, rally then march with Colorado Healthcare Coalition (cohccoalition.org) and IndivisibleDurango.org at Buckley Park! Speakers include local doctors, a veteran familiar with VA cuts and a young woman navigating our disability-unfriendly environment. Also speaking: a social worker, therapist, and local leader who has been working on SB25-045 (the first step toward a universal healthcare system covering all Coloradans). And drummers! See “Single Payer Day of Action #HandsOffMedicaid” on Facebook.
Next event: Durango’s #NoKings rally June 14.
– Karen Pontius, Durango
Defeat cruel budget bill
Last week, in the wee hours of the morning, the House passed a budget bill that will cut $700 billion from Medicaid and $500 billion from Medicare. If this bill passes the Senate, millions of people will lose their healthcare. Hospitals will close. Why? To pay for $4.5 trillion in tax breaks for the rich.
Congressman Jeff Hurd signed a letter to House leadership saying that he “will not support a final reconciliation bill that includes any reduction in Medicaid coverage for vulnerable populations.”
Last night he voted for a bill that did just that. And what’s more, it passed by a single vote. Hurd is personally responsible for passing the bill that will kick the elderly out of nursing homes and shorten the lives of millions of Americans.
The bill still needs to pass in the Senate before it be-
comes law. Call your Senators, and urge them to do everything in their power to defeat this cruel budget bill:
• Sen. Michael Bennet – 202-224-6852
• Sen. John Hickenlooper- 202-224-5941
– Philip Riffe, Hesperus
Rebuild our merchant marine
President Trump plans to revive the U.S. maritime ship-building industry, including levying tariffs and fees on Chinese ships entering American ports. Now Congress must pass the SHIPS Act, which will increase our ship-building capacity and hopefully the size of our merchant marine. It could also provide economies of scale and expertise to rebuild our Navy.
Since WWII, the U.S. has had a steady decline in U.S. flagged merchant ships from about 50% of the world’s cargo shipping to about 1% today. Our merchant marine has less than 10,000 mariners compared to 50,000 in 1960. Our Navy is hard pressed to find commercial ships to support its operations.
China leads the world in commercial shipping and ship building. It has 5,500 ships in maritime trade compared to 80 for the U.S. China, an economic and military adversary, is a big user of the Panama Canal, and this is why President Trump wants to exert pressure on Panama to have Chinese companies relinquish ownership of Panama Canal port facilities.
Approximately 90% of the world’s goods are transported by ships. We must increase U.S. flagged ships to compete with China and other countries and for our national security.
– Donald Moskowitz, Londonderry, N.H.
WritersontheRange
Radically wrong
by Barbara Vasquez
Ilive in Jackson County, in northern Colorado, where hundreds of inactive and abandoned oil wells litter the landscape. Not only are they an ugly sight, they are also just a few of the estimated 2.6 million unplugged wells across the country that leak methane, benzene and other toxic substances.
The reality is that long after I’m gone, most or all of those wells will remain unplugged. The companies and people who once owned them will have been allowed to walk away from their responsibility to clean up their mess.
Uncapped wells are what happens when the federal government enables the fossil-fuel industry to dominate energy policies, as is happening again now, both in the Interior Department and Congress. The policies emerging would allow companies, including many foreign ones, to profit from public lands and minerals that all Americans own. They would also leave taxpayers holding the bag for cleanup of leaking wells.
These abandoned wells already have consequences for wildlife, air, water and rural people. Kirk Panasuk, a rancher in Bainville, Mont., said: “I have personally experienced serious health scares after breathing toxic fumes from oil and gas wells near my property. And I’ve seen too many of my friends and neighbors in this part of the country have their water contaminated or their land destroyed by rushed and reckless industrial projects.”
Republicans and Democrats in previous administrations and Congresses took pains to reform this historically biased federal energy system because of the damage done to rural communities and American taxpayers. Now, the federal government is rolling back those reforms.
Recently, the Interior Department an-
Department’s policies, ignore the longstanding mandate to manage public lands for multiple uses. Instead, the new policies:
• Drastically reduce the public’s role in the permitting process.
• Allow large corporations to pay to evade environmental and judicial review.
• Exempt millions of acres of private lands with minerals and thousands of wells on these lands from federal permitting and mitigation requirements.
The House bill would also slash the royalty rate for oil and gas production from 16.67% to 12.5%, depriving state and local governments of funding they depend on for schools, roads and other essential services. An analysis by Resources for the Future found that the proposed lower royalty rates would result in a loss of nearly $5 billion in revenue over the next decade.
The Interior Department’s emergency permitting procedures and the House bill are assaults the federal government has waged on public lands since January. The public has been shoved to the side as oil and gas drillers enjoy their energy dominance throughout our public lands.
nounced that “emergency permitting procedures” were necessary when carrying out NEPA, the National Environmental Policy Act. Timelines for environmental assessments for fossilfuel projects were changed from one year to 14 days, without requiring a public comment period. The timeline for more complicated environmental impact statements was cut from two years to 28 days, with only a 10-day public comment period.
In May, the House Natural Resources Committee unveiled its piece of the House budget bill, which enables the federal government to expedite oil, gas,
coal and mineral development. It gives Americans basically no say on whether those projects should move ahead, while keeping taxpayers from receiving a fair return on the development of publicly owned lands and minerals.
The administration’s justification for expediting permits is that we face “a national energy emergency.” No such emergency exists. The United States is currently the world’s biggest exporter of liquified natural gas and is producing more oil than any other country on Earth.
Both the House bill – just passed and now before the Senate – and the Interior
Now, it’s up to the Senate to strip out these gifts to the fossil fuel industry, and it’s up to us tell our elected representatives that these policies ignore the wishes of Westerners. We have told pollsters innumerable times that we support conservation, not exploitation of public lands for private interests. What’s happening now is radically wrong.
Barbara Vasquez is a contributor to Writers on the Range, writersontherange.org, an independent nonprofit dedicated to spurring lively conversation about the West. A retired PhD biomedical researcher and semiconductor engineer, she is board chair of the Western Organization of Resource Councils and a board member of the Western Colorado Alliance. ■
Hundreds of inactive and abandoned oil wells dot northern Colorado and the rest of the state, leaking methane, benzene and other toxic substances. Uncapped and orphaned wells are what happens when the federal government enables the fossil-fuel industry to dominate energy policies, as is happening again now. Photo by Ramon Cliff / Shutterstock
Fare thee well
Longtime Animas Trading Co. owner Cathy Wakeman sells to local couple
by Missy Votel
After May 31, Cathy Wakeman will be truckin’ on.
The longtime owner of Animas Trading Co. – Durango’s mainstay for everything from festival wear and Grateful Dead memorabilia to cards, accessories and skivvies – is going down the road feeling, well, pretty good.
“I’m so excited. But, it’s kind of crazy,” said Wakeman, 65, who has been involved in the store for 32 years. “I’ve spent half my life working here.”
Wakeman announced last week that, after two years of looking for a suitable buyer, she had sold the store to Amanda and Adam Bierma, of Durango. The Biermas own two other stores on Main Avenue: Out of the Blue, 645 Main, and the Mountain Marketplace, 713 Main (formerly Stuart’s and the Old Barrel Tea Co., which recently moved to 680 Main.)
For Wakeman, who first started working for former Animas Trading owner Ron Kirschnick in 1993, it has been a bit of a long, strange – but fun – trip. And, in case you can’t tell, she owes it all to Jerry and company.
“Ron was a deadhead and so was I,” Wakeman, who moved from the Front Range to Durango in 1990 with husband, Doug. “I would come in and talk to him all the time, and we traded tapes. He had the Grateful Dead’s tour schedule on a chalkboard in the store.”
(That’s right, kids – no Spotify to download songs from, and no social media or websites to tell you where and when your favorite band was playing. Just a goodold fashioned tape deck and Deadhead grapevine.)
The two became quick friends, and eventually, Kirschnick offered her a job.
“He said if you ever want to work here, let me know,” Wakeman recalled.
Even though retail wasn’t exactly what she set out to do in life – up until then, Wakeman had been working at KSUT – she decided to take the chance.
“I just kind of stumbled into it,” she said.
When the store’s manager quit a few months after she started, she moved into that role. Fourteen years later, in 2007, when Kirschnick wanted to sell the store, Wakeman was the natural choice – and she has owned it since.
“It’s been amazing. I’ve traveled all over the world and met great people,” she said, referring to her annual trips to Thailand, where she buys much of the funky clothing, tapestries and knick knacks for the store.
In her time at Animas Trading, the store has gone through a few iterations, from digs in the mall where Father’s Daughters Pizza is to 1015 Main (most recently home to Create Art and Tea). Animas Trading moved to its current spot at 742 Main in 2018.
Wakeman began looking for a buyer for the popular store a few years ago, and eventually, her broker led her to Bierma. Prior to that, she had some offers, but none felt quite right – they were either low balls or out-oftowners who wanted to change the vibe of the store drastically.
“It’s a perfect fit,” she said of the Biermas. “They love
retail and want to keep the store the same. And they want to keep it local. It feels good, because they’re good people.”
And speaking of locals, Wakeman would like to thank all her faithful supporters and wish the new buyers well with a party this Thurs., May 29, from 4-9 p.m. at the store. There will be apps, good memories and live music from all-female local band Galavant.
As for Wakeman, a common sight on her cruiser bike riding to and from work (and arguably one of the bestdressed women in Durango), she plans to fill her days the same way she always has: skiing, camping, festivaling and travelling. “Except now, it will be guilt-free,” she said ■
Vallecito RV Park: Close to home, but so far away Locals Welcome!
20% off RV sites for locals *restrictions apply 13030 CR 501 (at the south end of the lake) • jwvallecito.com
Animas Trading Co. owner Cathy Wakeman outside the store, at 742 Main Ave., on Tuesday. After 32 years first working at and then owning the store, Wakeman is stepping away. She has sold to local couple Amanda and Adam Bierma./ Photo by Missy Votel
GossipoftheCyclers
Doing the wave
Yes, stopping your car for a cyclist is nice – but please don’t
by Jennaye Derge
The other day I was stopped at a stop sign on my bike at a decently busy intersection. At this particular intersection, the cross traffic perpendicular to me had the right of way, meaning no stop sign, stop light or any other indicator they should stop for any reason. As I waited for the traffic to clear, I caught eyes with a cute boy in a Subaru Outback who was about to drive in front of me through the intersection. He, however, decided not to pass in front of me and instead, stopped and waved at me to cross in front of him.
That was very cute of him, and in any other scenario, I would have maybe said thanks, batted my eyelashes and gone to say hi. But in this scenario, I had to let him go. Other cars were starting to pile up behind him, and one gave a little honk. The situation was getting stressful, so I smiled and waved at him, gesturing for him to keep going. He did have the right of way, after all.
But the cute boy just kept smiling and waving at me to go, even though I did not have the right of way. So, in return, I smiled and waved even harder for him to go, and then he waved even harder for me to go. Then we were both frowning at each other and violently waving our arms as the other cars were honking and driving fast toward the intersection and adding to the chaos.
Finally, the cute boy gave in. He threw his hand up in defeat and shook his head in annoyance at me, because I refused his kind gesture that would have me crossing the intersection in front of oncoming traffic. My dreams of an intersection meet cute had vanished, and I actually felt bad for what had transpired. I know he was trying to be kind, and I’m sure if I did leap across the intersection as soon as he waved me through, I would have been safe, and other cars would not have gotten involved. I’m sure then, later, he and I would run into each other – at a party or something – and we would recognize each other from across the crowded room. He would wave me over, and I would say “Thanks for stopping,” and he would say, “No problem,” and we would fall madly in love and wave and
smile at each other forever.
But that did not happen.
What did happen was a very dangerous non meet cute, and it is also known as an “illegal courtesy stop.” Yes, he was being kind, sweet and courteous, but in that situation, it was actually unsafe for me (and also him) to create this unpredictable situation on a busy roadway. And, fun fact: it is also, as the non-official name suggests, against the law.
Dubbed in slang as the “illegal courtesy stop,” this kind of stopping in the middle of the roadway to let a cyclist pass who does not have the right of way is illegal for the same reason that randomly stopping your car in the middle of a road for anything other than a hazard is also illegal. It creates havoc, danger and annoyances.
For example, imagine you are riding your bike, trying to cross Camino del Rio where there is no crosswalk, stoplight or stop sign. Imagine the closestto-you oncoming car stops and waves at you to cross. I bet the oncoming car in the next lane doesn’t see you. They have no other indicators they should stop, and so they keep going. You, however, already started crossing and don’t see the oncoming car.
At the same time, the car coming up
behind the stopped car isn’t, realistically, paying much attention, and just like that other driver, doesn’t see any reason to be aware a stopped car in front of them. So, they rear end the stopped car.
The illegal courtesy stop is particularly confusing in Durango, because we’re pretty good at enforcing pedestrian crossing right of ways, specifically downtown. But this is one of those cases where, although both pedestrians and cyclists are vulnerable road users, we should not treat cyclists as pedestrians. For everyone’s safety, cyclists should be treated like cars. Crystal clear?
I get the confusion and frustration. And in my dream world, yes, we would all yield to cyclists and pedestrians in every scenario. Our laws and infrastructure would be catered toward bicycles and pedestrians, not cars. And cute boys would always stop to let me cross safely and give me their numbers and take me to dinner, and we’d tell all our friends about our meet cute and how I convinced him to stop driving his car and start commuting by bike instead.
But until that happens, maybe we can just wave from afar and keep on going. Jennaye Derge is the executive director of Bike Durango, a local bicycle advocacy and education nonprofit organization. ■
Surf ... Pueblo?
‘Pittsburgh of the West’ opens new wave park on Arkansas River ro rave reviews
by Shanna Lewis / Colorado Public Radio
Surf’s up in Pueblo. That’s right, the southern Colorado town known more for its steel and chile production is the latest entrant into the surf park craze.
On Sat., May 24, whitewater enthusiasts of all kinds turned out to test the waves at a celebration for Pueblo’s new Water Works Park.
Pueblo Water, the local utility, spent about $11 million to turn a dangerous old diversion dam on the Arkansas River into a family-friendly, all-levels recreation area. Along with surf waves, the park has wading ponds, tubing areas, walking paths along the riverbanks and two new pedestrian bridges that cross the river.
"It's a jewel,” local resident and whitewater enthusiast Bob Walker said. “It’s probably one of the finest water parks in the state, if not the nation. It's one of those pinch-me things – it is hard to believe that we're doing this in Pueblo, and it came out so wonderful.”
Walker owns Edge Ski, Paddle and Pack shop in Pueblo, where he sells and rents all kinds of gear, including tubes, kayaks, surfboards, boogie boards and paddle boards. He said he’s spoken with river surfers who have come from out-of-town and even out-of-state to ride the new Pueblo wave.
“People are literally changing their travel plans to be here,” he said. “I don’t know how many times I’ve gotten ‘We never got off the highway in Pueblo. We thought this was the ugliest, scariest place (because that’s what) we've heard.’”
But now, he said, they come to town, and while they are visiting, they eat at local restaurants and explore the Historic Arkansas Riverwalk and downtown. Then they tell him they think it’s a great place.
“The economic impact (of the new water park) on Pueblo, I believe, is going to be felt,” Walker said.
Local doctor and avid river surfer Brad Roberts shared a similar experience. He said he’s met river surfers from all over the country at the park. Like Walker, he also thinks it’ll be a boon for the city.
For those who have never tried river surfing, unlike in the ocean, river surfers don’t have to paddle and catch a wave. They can walk to the wave, step onto their boards and glide back and forth on a steady stream of water gushing over a man-made feature.
Roberts described how it feels.
“It's awesome,” he said. “You kind of hit that high where you're just floating on the water, and it just feels
like you're almost floating in air … It's just like flying, almost.”
Pueblo Water Executive Director Seth Clayton said it was important to make the park, which covers about an acre and a half, fun for many people. They made adjustments to the design and placement of the rock features to make sure the experience good for as many recreational users as possible at all skill levels. There are benches for people to sit and watch and areas of calm water areas for wading. There are also stone stairs leading in and out of the river in multiple spots.
“What we really wanted to do is make this a familyfriendly environment and something people could come down and just enjoy for free,” he said.
Clayton said he's in awe of the construction workers and heavy equipment operators, who placed the rock while working in the river environment. Walker said he is also impressed with the design and construction work that went into the water park.
The work also now makes the river floatable for about 8 miles from near the dam at Pueblo Reservoir to the
Runyon Lake area. However, it is not a lazy float without challenging sections, so people need to check water levels, wear quality certified life jackets and be prepared to swim. “You may end up upside down and having to crawl back on your tube,” Walker said. “But that's about the worst that'll happen.”
It’s also critical for people to understand that the river can change from day to day, hour to hour. One time, it might be safe for a novice or child, and later, at a different flow, it could be dangerous, so always check the current water level, Walker said.
Clayton said the park will also improve the fishery by creating passages for trout and other fish to get through that section of river. The Arkansas is already considered a Blue Ribbon river, and fly fishermen are in the water year-round in many locations.
He also said the utility was able to secure a low-interest loan for the work, and the cost of the project doesn’t affect the bottom line on water bills. “It really doesn't move the needle for our rate payers,” he said.
For more from Colorado Public Radio, go to www.cpr.org.■
Summummer is ki kickiking into gea gear
Great selection of clothing for Animas River Days and other summer fun ... plus patio furniture galore
Surfers ride the new wave at Waterworks Park on the Arkansas River in Pueblo recently. / Shanna Lewis/KRCC News
Thursday29
“From the Fringes: Diné Textiles that Disrupt,” opening reception, 4:30-6:30 p.m., Center of Southwest Studies at Fort Lewis College
Ska-B-Q music by Pete Giuliani, 5 p.m., Ska Brewing, 225 Girard St.
Durango Green Drinks, 5 p.m., 11th Street Station, 1101 Main Ave.
Animas River Days Kick-off Party, 5-8 p.m., 2nd Deli & Spirits
Weekly Dart Tournament, 5:30 p.m., Union Social House, 3062 Main Ave.
AskRachel Dogged determination, bad reviews and fed up
Interesting fact: “Bluey” is reportedly the first show to demonstrate unstructured childhood play. And this advice column, week in and week out, demonstrates even less structure than that.
Dear Rachel,
I’m a routine-driven individual. I do well on the same schedule because I don’t have to think about anything. But change things up and I forget essentials. Recently, a friend brought takeout dinner over, but because I didn’t make my dinner I forgot to feed my dogs. (Don’t worry too much, they forgave me.) I realize I’m a bit abnormal. How do more typical people make sure to remember everything they have to do every day?
– Otto Pilot
Dear Cruise Control, I’m suddenly panicking. Do I remember to do things like feed the dogs because I’m a more typical people? Or do I remember because I’ve cobbled to-
gether my own ways of overcoming forgetfulness? Or – and this is worst –do I forget all the time but not realize I forget? I may never know! But I will definitely lose sleep wondering what all I’ve forgotten.
– Set reminder, Rachel
Dear Rachel, When to leave a bad review and when not? I hate the thought of ruining someone’s chances at a raise. But sometimes, it’s warranted. For example, FedEx just delivered a box, and I thought neighborhood bears had busted into it. Luckily, everything was accounted for. Then I get the email asking for feedback on the delivery. Should I share my experience or just let it slide?
– One Star Human
Dear Valued Customer, You can’t ruin someone’s livelihood because a box got banged up. Especially since you got the goods you ordered. For all you know, some employee along the chain bravely – perhaps even fool-
Darryl and Frank Kuntz play, 5:30-8:30 p.m., Diamond Belle Saloon, 699 Main Ave.
State Rep. Katie Stewart speaks to the Rotary Club of Durango, 6-7 p.m., Strater Hotel, 699 Main Ave.
Book Club “We the Animals” by Justin Torres, 67:30 p.m., Durango Public Library, 1900 E. 3rd Ave.
Black Velvet plays, 6-8 p.m., Lola’s Place, 725 E. 2nd Ave.
Sean O’Brien plays, 6-9 p.m., Office Spiritorium, 699 Main Ave.
Man 2 Man Prostate Cancer Support Group, 7-8 p.m., via Zoom, prostategroupdro@gmail.com for details
Wednesday04
The Funk Express with Shainna Allen plays, 5:30 p.m., The Powerhouse, 1333 Camino Del Rio
Devin Scott Ukulele plays, 6-8 p.m., Grassburger Downtown, 726½ Main Ave.
Chuck Hank plays, 6-9 p.m., Office Spiritorium, 699 Main Ave.
Darryl and Frank Kuntz play, 6-9 p.m., Diamond Belle Saloon, 699 Main Ave.
hardily – rescued your package from a permanent “In transit, delivery date unknown” status. I’m imagining them sliding under an oncoming delivery truck, Indiana Jones style, to rescue your package mid-crush and ensure it made it to your door. In other words: go easy.
– Unsigned, unsealed undelivered, Rachel
Dear Rachel, My sister lives several states over. Her kids’ frequent dinnertime activity is to video call their Favorite Auntie (me) so she can stop whatever she’s doing to watch them dropping spaghetti on the floor or whatever. I’m all for staying connected, but this is blatant distract-the-kids mode. It’s not a conversation, even graded on a toddler curve. How rude am I if I just quit answering?
– Dinner and a Show Dear Candid Camera, Not rude at all. Your sister will just pop on “Bluey” or something else to
keep the little rascals entertained. They can’t be THAT upset, especially if they aren’t even able to hold up their end of the chatter. But if your sister is remembering to feed the children every single evening, maybe she can give advice to that person who forgets to feed the dogs?
– Out to lunch, Rachel
Upcoming
“Continuum” Contemporary Native Perspectives through Glass exhibition, Fri., June 6, 5-7 p.m., Blue Rain Gallery Durango, 934 Main Ave., Unit B
Six Dollar Sting Band and The Robin Davis Duo play, Sat., June 7, 8 p.m., The Subterrain, 900 Main Ave.
Chamber Music Festival “Romantic Interludes,” Mon., June 9, 7 p.m., Roshong Recital Hall, FLC
Chamber Music “Music for Strings,” Wed., June 11, 7 p.m., St. Mark’s Episcopal Church, 910 E. 3rd Ave.
David Feela “Feelasophy” reading & book signing, Thurs., June 12, 6:30-7:30 p.m., Mancos Public Library, 211 W First St., Mancos May 29, 2025 n 13
Deadline to submit items for “Stuff to Do” is Monday @ noon.
Please include:
• Date and time of event
• Location of event
E-mail your stuff to: calendar@durangotelegraph.com
FreeWillAstrology
by Rob Brezsny
ARIES (March 21-April 19): The strongest, most enduring parts of China’s Great Wall were the 5,500 miles built during the Ming Dynasty. One secret to their success was sticky rice, an essential ingredient in the mortar. The resulting structures have been remarkably water resistant. They hold their shape well, resist weed growth and get stronger as time passes. I hope you will find metaphorical equivalents as you work on your foundations in coming months. Proceed as if you are constructing basic supports that will last for years.
TAURUS (April 20-May 20): The world’s most expensive spice is saffron. To gather one gram of it, workers must harvest 150 flowers by hand. Doesn’t that process resemble what you have been doing? I am awed by the stamina you have been summoning to generate your treasure. What you’re producing may not be loud and showy, but its value will be concentrated and robust. Those who appreciate quality will recognize the painstaking effort behind your creation. Like saffron’s distinctive essence that transforms ordinary dishes into extraordinary ones, your patient dedication is creating what can’t be rushed or replicated.
GEMINI (May 21-June 20): Gemini author Jean-Paul Sartre was offered the Nobel Prize for Literature in 1964. But he rejected it. Why? He said if he accepted it, he would be turned into an institution and authority figure, which would hinder his ability to critique politics and society. He was deeply committed to the belief that a writer has an obligation to be independent and accountable only to their conscience and audience, not to external accolades or validations. I think you are in a Sartre-like phase now. You have a sacred duty to be faithful to your highest calling, your deepest values and your authentic identity. Every other consideration should be secondary.
CANCER (June 21-July 22): You are now attuned to subtle energies, subliminal signals and hidden agendas. No one in your sphere is even half as sensitive as you are to the intriguing mysteries that are unfolding beneath the surface. This may be a bit unsettling, but it’s a key asset. Your ability to sense what others are missing gives you a unique advantage. So trust your intuitive navigation, even if the way forward isn’t obvious. Your ability to sense underlying currents will enable you to avoid obstacles and discern opportunities that even your allies might overlook.
LEO (July 23-Aug. 22): Underground fungal networks are essential for the ecosystems. They connect plant roots and facilitate transfers of nutrients, water and communication signals between species. They enhance the fertility of the soil, helping plants thrive. I invite you to celebrate your equivalent of the underground fungal network. What is the web of relationships that enables you to thrive? Not just the obvious bonds, but the subtle ones: the barista who has memorized your order, the neighbor who waters your plants when you’re away; the online ally who responds to your posts. Now is an excellent time to map and nurture these interconnections.
VIRGO (Aug. 23-Sept. 22): Virgo author Chimamanda Ngozi Adichie warns about “the danger of a single story.” She tells us that authentic identity requires us to reject oversimplified narratives. As a Nigerian woman living in the U.S., she found that both Western and African audiences sought to reduce her to convenient categories. She has not only resisted that pressure but also outwitted and outflanked it. Her diversity is intriguing. She mixes pop culture with cultural criticism. She addresses both academic and mainstream audiences. I offer her as your role model. May she inspire you to energetically express your uncategorizable selves.
LIBRA (Sept. 23-Oct. 22): Where have you not yet traveled but would like to? What frontiers would your imagination love for you to visit but you have refrained? Now is the time to consider dropping inhibitions, outmoded habits and irrelevant rules that have prevented you from wandering farther. You have full permission from life, karma and your future self to take smart risks that will lead you out of your comfort zone. What exotic sanctuary do you wish you had the courage to explore? What adventurous pilgrimage might activate aspects of your potential that are half-dormant?
SCORPIO (Oct. 23-Nov. 21): Astrologers say that Scorpio is ruled by three creatures that correspond to three ascending levels of spiritual maturity. The regular Scorpio person is ruled by the scorpion. Scorpios who are well underway with their spiritual work are ruled by the eagle. The Scorpio who has consistently succeeded at the hard and rewarding work of metaphorical death and resurrection is ruled by the phoenix –the mythical bird reborn from the ashes of its own immolation. No matter how evolved you are, the coming weeks will bring you rich opportunities to come into your own as a brilliant phoenix.
SAGITTARIUS (Nov. 22-Dec. 21): Seas off the coast of Singapore are heavily polluted. Some of the coral reefs there are showing resilience, though. They have developed symbiotic relationships with certain algae and bacteria that were formerly hostile. Their robustness lies in their adaptability and their power to forge unlikely alliances. That’s a good teaching for you now. The strength you need isn’t about maintaining fixed positions or rigid boundaries but about being flexible. I hope you will be alert and ready to connect with unfamiliar resources and unexpected help. A willingness to adjust and compromise will be a superpower.
CAPRICORN (Dec. 22-Jan. 19): Sometimes, disruptions are helpful prods that nudge us to pay closer attention. An apparent malfunction might be trying to tell us some truth that our existing frameworks can’t accommodate. I suspect this phenomenon might be occurring in your world. An area of your life that seems to be misfiring may in fact be highlighting a blind spot in your comprehension. Rather than fretting and purging the glitches, I will ask you to first consider what helpful information is being exposed. Suspend your judgment long enough to learn from apparent errors.
AQUARIUS (Jan. 20-Feb. 18): This isn’t the first time I’ve said that your ideas are ahead of their time. Now I’m telling you again, and adding that your intuitions, feelings and approaches are ahead of their time, too. As usual, your precociousness carries both potential benefits and problems. If people are flexible and smart enough to be open to your innovations, you will be rewarded. If others are rigid and oblivious, you may have to struggle to get the right things done. Here’s my advice: Focus on the joy of carrying out your innovations rather than getting caught up in fighting resistance.
PISCES (Feb. 19-March 20): Sunlight can’t penetrate deeper than 3,280 feet into the ocean’s depths. Even at 650 feet down, a murky twilight zone prevails. But nearly 75% of deep-sea creatures can create their own light, thanks to a biochemical phenomenon called bioluminescence. Jellyfish, starfish and crustaceans are a few animals that glow. I propose we make them your symbols of power in the coming weeks. I hope they incite you to be your own source of illumination. If shadowy challenges arise, resolve to emit your steady brilliance. Inspire yourself and others with your subtle yet potent clarity.
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 durangotelegraph.com n classifieds@durango telegraph.com n 970-259-0133
Announcements
Notice of Public Sale to enforce self-service storage facility lien. “Personal Property,” stored at Unit E32 of The Animas Mini Storage at 20995 Highway 160, Durango, CO 81301, described as: Misc household items, furniture, boxes and bags of misc., which are stored under a Rental Agreement between The Animas Mini Storage and Shaylene Brassard, will be sold to the highest cash bidder unless all rents and fees are paid in full prior to the auction. Date and time of sale: May 31, 2025, at 9:30 AM. Terms of sale: Cash. Place of sale: The Animas Mini Storage, 20995 Highway 160, Durango, CO. All bidders must present a valid state-issued picture ID to place bids.
Classes/Workshops
Weekly Fast, Fun 45-Minute Aikido
Don't like to fight but want to feel safe? Try Aikido, the blending, calming martial art. Mondays 5:30-6:15pm $8 for 18+. Must book online: durango aikido.com
West Coast Swing
Ready to dance? Join our 3-week West Coast Swing Basics series for beginners! It’s fun, social, and easy to learn—no partner or experience needed. A new series starts every few weeks, so join us for the next one! We also offer a weekly social dance – a fun drop-in option or included with your series registration! Sign up at: www.westslopewesties.com
Lost/Found
My Cat Cid is Missing
Long hair, white with black spots, green eyes. Last seen near 18th St. and E. 2nd Ave., by St. Columba. Reward. Call 970-403-6192
Found: Prescription Sunglasses On road near Kennebec Café on Sat., May 17. Email to claim: hallks1963@ gmail.com.
Wanted
Books Wanted at White Rabbit Donate/Trade/Sell 970 259-2213
ForSale
Hardshell Coleman Lake Kayak
$100. Can put inside most cars. 505728-2057 mmayer4823@gmail.com
2001 Jeep Sahara
206k miles, 2 tops, rack, new tires, new clutch. $8000 OBO. 970-799-3488.
Concept 2 Rowing Machine
$450 970-799-3488.
SIC Paddleboard
12'6'' x 27” 25 lbs like new, $900 swilderowen@gmail.com
Reruns Home Furnishings
Time to spruce up your outdoor space.
Multiple patio sets, bistros, vintage patio sets and yard art. Also looking to consign smaller furniture pieces. 572 E. 6th Ave. Open Mon.-Sat. 385-7336.
ForRent
Private Office Space for rent in environmental consulting firm’s office $400 per month (142 sq. ft.) 835 E. 2nd Ave. 3-month lease includes all utilities, Wi-Fi, shared kitchen, restrooms & conference room. Please contact jhesford@eroresources.com for more information.
For Lease: Two Professional Offices in Downtown Durango. Prime location in the 500 block of downtown Durango. Bright, private offices in a quiet, professional setting. Ideal for therapists, consultants or small businesses. Walkable, central and full of charm. Call/text (970) 844-4184 or email Dave@AspenGroveLaw.com for details or a tour.
Professional Office Downtown near Main Ave, sunlit patio with Buckley Park views. All utilities included. Lease terms negotiable. 970.247.1233
Services
Chapman Electric Colorado licensed and insured. Residential and commercial. New, remodel and repair. Mike 970-403-6670
Residential Fabrication Planter boxes, gates and fences and other outdoor property enhancements. North Shore Fab. 970 749 6140. Jon
HaikuMovieReview
‘Pee-Wee as Himself’ Hilarious, weird, cool and touching … not just in that way you might think – Lainie Maxson
Custom Sheds Built Your Way! Use our 3D Builder to design the perfect shed. Bring your vision to life at RockyMountainSheds.com!
Boiler Service - Water Heater Serving Durango over 30 years. Brad, 970-759-2869. Master Plbg Lic #179917
Massage by Meg Bush LMT, 30, 60 & 90 min., 970-759-0199.
CommunityService
Four Corners Gem and Mineral Show needs volunteers. The show is happening this July 11-13 at the La Plata County Fairgrounds. Volunteer receive free access to the show! Visit durangorocks.org.
