by Patty LaTaille
Potential Tragedy Not Quite Averted
The “San Juan Express #216” passenger train westbound from Antonito collided with an Antonito track “tie crew” motor car, injuring two Cumbres & Toltec Scenic Railroad on Aug. 31. The crash occurred at mile post 311. Both men are expected to fully recover. The railroad is continuing to deal with the change to operating out of Chama due to the fire that damaged the Lobato Trestle, a few miles from the depot in late June. Chama passengers are currently being transported by motor coach to Cumbres Station, at the high point of the 64-mile line, for the rest of the trip to Osier or Antonito, both in Colorado.
Score: Animals 1, Pot 0.
Monte Vista City Council recently encouraged residents to vote in the one percent mill levy increase to support the operation and maintenance of the local animal shelter. The increase is approximately an extra $7-8 in taxes per year, per $100,000 assessed property taxes. (Such a small price to pay to keep furry friends and family members safe and well-cared for!) The Council also unanimously approved Ordinance No. 822, which by prohibits the retail sale, distribution, cultivation and dispensing of medical marijuana.
“Salamosa” No More
Twenty-nine Alamosa residents who became ill due to the salmonella outbreak in 2008 will receive $360,000 from the City of Alamosa, through its insurance carrier, The Travelers. The lawsuit was won on the claim that the city was negligent in maintaining its water facilities, (the source of the salmonella outbreak), and stricken residents were customers of the municipal water provider which sold the tainted water. More than 400 cases of illness by salmonella poisoning were reported. It is characterized by debilitating vomiting and diarrhea. One death was associated with the outbreak and sixteen children were part of the victim total. The Colorado Department of Public Health and Environment’s final report stated that it was animal waste that most likely contaminated a concrete in-ground water storage tank that sported several holes and cracks. The victims’ victorious law firm of Marler Clark handled the pro bono case.
An Increase in Higher Education & Diversity
Adams State College is reporting a new enrollment record this fall, the result of “a larger freshman class, growing graduate programs, and improved student retention,” according to Dr. Michael Mumper, Senior Vice President for Enrollment Management and Program Development, as reported by the Valley Courier. ASC recorded an increase of four percent in on-campus undergraduates and graduate students. Student diversity at ASC is also on the rise. Total undergraduate Hispanic enrollment increased from 29 percent to 32 percent. Another 14 percent of the undergraduate student body are African American, Native American/Alaskan, Asian/Pacific Islander, or multi-racial.
CRT Awarded Grant
The Creede Repertory Theatre has been awarded a $350,000 grant from the U.S. Government’s Economic Development Authority (EDA). The grant will be applied to the completion of the Black Box (Second Stage) theatre. The new theatre will have multi-stage options and HEAT – allowing for year-round use. It will seat 150-200 theatergoers and is expected to open in July 2011. This is a great sign of recognition, and significant financial support for the performing arts at the state and federal levels
• Attorney Patrick Henry Hayes Jr. of South Fork was recently appointed by Governor Bill Ritter to replace Rio Grande County Judge Michael H. Trujillo, who is retiring.
Did you know? Among the elite hikers and climbers who have conquered Colorado’s 14ers is Paul Perea, who was born and raised in Antonito. He climbed 58 of the highest peaks in a two-year time period.
“Love is like a potato; you just can’t throw it out the window.” – Toni Woodard, SLV resident
Among the elite hikers and climbers who have conquered Colorado’s 14ers is Paul Perea, who was born and raised in the Antonito. He climbed 58 of the highest peaks in a two-year time per
