Index Index
About Us
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AroundTrinidad Goldilocks and the Three Theaters Fresh Air Recycled Treasures Hot Tips-Style & Beauty A Little Twinkle The College Spot It’s EPIC Sports Something to Cheer About Sports Schedules Horoscopes Hall of Fame Dedicated to Life Healthy Living Raising Awareness of Diabetes Cover Story Rollin’ into the Holidays Business Spotlight Ringing the Bells Art & Music Through the Eyes of Extrodinary Young Artists Paw News Cold Weather Safety for Pets Education The Man from Turtle Island Government Doing a LOT with a Little Trinidad Treasures Little Snippets of Love
A Word from the Editor… Counting Our Blessings
The owners and staff at Around Trinidad would like to wish everyone in the community a blessed Thanksgiving. We give thanks for our families and for the many friends, old and new, that we have here and for our beautiful community and surroundings and as we count the many, many blessing that we so often take for granted, we pray to be mindful of the needs of others. E.R.A. McCarthey
Our Mission… Around Trinidad is focused on bringing the community together and building relationships with the people, the businesses, organizations, government, educational institutions and the community as a whole. Our focus is to provide local information so our residents can rediscover their hometown and visitors can see it SHINE!
About US… Everything AroundUS and Merged Media, the parent companies of Around Trinidad, can help with internet strategies such as customized website design, traffic, search engine optimization, articles, banners, links, and web site validation. We also offer traditional marketing services such as branding, product design, print media, audio and video. Our companies offer more opportunities for local businesses by promoting events and social activities in the community. We take the world around us and bring it to you! Everything AroundUS pushes social networking to the next level by using our platform to promote businesses with giveaways, social activities and exciting events! Our team merges the virtual elements of social networking with traditional promotions to give businesses the ultimate marketing experience. Everything AroundUS brings the community together and builds value for local businesses and services by helping people access everything the area has to offer. We use the power of one communication platform to highlight the fun and excitement around us.
AROUND TRINIDAD CREDITS EDITOR-IN-CHIEF/OWNER E.R.A. McCarthey ART & DESIGN DIRECTOR/OWNER Jay Martinez EXECUTIVE MANAGING EDITOR Marty Hackett FEATURES DIRECTOR David J. Santistevan Jr. Around Trinidad has been funded by Merged Media and Everything AroundUS. It was built by Jay Martinez, E.R.A. McCarthey, David J. Santistevan Jr., Marty Hackett and many lovely people in the Trinidad Community.
INDEX
Goldilocks and the Three Theatres A very short play by Marty Hackett Cast- Harriet Vaugeois as Goldilocks, Fred Vaugeois as Papa Bear Scene 3 Act 1 Having tried two other homes thus far, one being, “Oh, toooo big!” and the other being “Oh, toooo small, Goldilocks looks at what could become her new home, and exclaims excitedly, “This one is juussst right!” She walks about her new home with papa bear and in typical female fashion, begins to envision the changes to be made to the nearly perfect location. She thinks, “remove the current stage, place partitions here and there, the audience will be seated here” and with input from Papa Bear, (which although the unlikely pair don’t always see eye to eye, their ideas work perfectly together), their dream home begins to take shape. Scene 3 Act 2 “Wake up Harriet!” says Fred. “It isn’t a dream anymore.” …and the Southern Colorado Repertory Theatre lived happily ever after. Well, at least until SCRT takes on Phase 3. “This is only phase two,” explained Fred who is the SCRT Artistic Director. Phase three, which remains a mystery, is yet to come. For the time being however, the community welcomes SCRT to the heart of Trinidad! The new home at 131 W. Main St. known histori-
cally as “The Famous” was once described as a “two-story brick building with projecting bay windows, arched windows with awnings and the sign on the building read “The Famous, Wholesale and Resale Department Store.” The Oliver E. Aultman photo taken on a the dirt street even then known as Main Street sometime between 1900 and 1910 is archived in the Denver Library. “It is so exciting to be able to be in such a wonderful building and it is in such great shape,” added Harriet, who is SCRT’s President/Executive Director. “It has had continuous occupancy, which might be why.” As memory recalls, the building has also housed JC Penny’s, Youth With A Mission, and most recently the Heart of Trinidad Fellowship. The current occupants have been searching for several years for a smaller location, just as the SCRT has searched for their own perfect home and both have found it! The three-level building which has an estimated 12,000-18,000 square footage, amazingly has a theatre “feel” to it already, and will allow SCRT to have a lobby, ticket office, a mezzanine and gallery, storage for props and costumes, work offices, dressing rooms, a fully functioning kitchen area, handicap accessible bathrooms, and area for the cast to rehearse. “I am a believer that the heart of Trinidad is pumping!” said Harriet, “and now that we are on Main Street, the box office is accessible to the public. The tourists are on Main and they will be coming, coming in!” she added, visioning that that alone will mean more ticket sales in addition to making the community more vibrant. “We can have matinees any day!” and the couple and board have a goal of being back to having a professional season next
summer, and being a part of the economic engine that is needed for the community. Expressing a bit of disappointment, the couple noted that “if only” the location had been acquired earlier, perhaps Trinidad would have been successful in its bid for the Creative Industries event, but now hope has grown anew for the future! The occupancy of the building by SCRT is not only exciting for the theatre but the community at large. “It is now our space and we can extend it the way we want,” Harriet added. “In addition to the AR Mitchell, Sebastiani Gym, and other locations where events can be held, we now have the Famous.” Harriet went on to explain that the idea is to make the space available to the public for family events such as weddings and community events such as lectures, films, and fundraisers. Noting that not much time was left and the work at hand was going to be frantic, the couple announced that the first “test” of the new SCRT Theatre would be their Fall Dinner Theatre EventA Dysfunctional Family Thanksgiving which was held Saturday, Nov. 17. However, that was just the beginning and you can purchase your tickets now for “Trinidad-Our Stories WWII,” an SCRT event collaborated with the First National Bank and the AR Mitchell Museum. The stories told will be enacted by the SCRT Resident Theatre Company and will tell of the personal experiences of those who gave much of their youth to defending our country. Mark your calendar now for December 7, 8, or 9th and plan to attend this great event and see the new home of “Goldilocks and Papa Bear” and their extended family. We hope that you will agree that the new home for SCRT is “juuussst right!”
THINGS to Do… ______________________________ Kick off the holidays with the Train & Tree Lighting ceremony at City Hall on Nov. 23 at 5:15 p.m. on the City Hall lawn with entertainment and hot cider provided by the Trinidad Rotary Club and the annual Parade of Lights on Saturday, Nov. 24 beginning at 6 p.m. The parade begins in downtown Trinidad. Both events are sponsored by Hometown Holidays. For additional information contact Christina at 719-680-9878 or Lynn at 719-846-7633. The annual Hometown Holidays Festival of Trees begins December 1 and continues through Dec. 25.
Are you Prepared: for a Winter Storm, Wild fire, etc.? There are many natural and man-made disasters that can change your plans in an instant. Being able to take care of your family either at home by sheltering in place or to be able to grab a bag or kit that has the important items your family needs and leave quickly could dictate how well you weather the storm.
Theme decorated trees will be on display in various business locations in Trinidad. Enjoy ballet on Saturday, Dec. 1, beginning at 7
Have A Plan - Build A Kit - Stay Safe
p.m. as A Premier Ballet Christmas will perform
Have A Plan
length show features “The Snow Maiden” based
Each member of the family should carry a card with important family information and contact numbers listed on it. Everyone should know who to contact or where to meet if they can’t go home or need to leave a message on where they can be found if separated. (Out of town or state contact that is not dealing with the same incident) Caregivers of small children should have this information in case they have had to leave their home and could not get in contact with you. Plans and template guides can be found at www.ready.gov
Build A Kit
Emergency preparedness kits include food, water and several other items that you could potentially need in the face of an emergency. Your kit should allow you to survive for a minimum of three days, should you ever need to. If you ever have to survive without help following an emergency, you'll be happy that you have your home emergency kit packed and ready to use. (make sure everyone knows where it is and what it is for) Remember the special needs of the elderly, infants and pets.
Car kit essentials: a shovel matches Flashlight Blanket (s) Water snack food battery powered radio extra batteries extra hats, socks and mittens first aid kit with pocket knife necessary medications tow chain or rope road salt and sand booster cables emergency flares fluorescent distress flag & safety vest windshield scraper and small broom
Home kit essentials: Family plan, contact information and pictures of family members & friends Body Warmers Can opener Water Flashlight Extra Batteries Shovel Duct Tape Plastic sheeting First aid kit Dust mask Work gloves Light sticks Garbage bags Mini hand sanitizer Lighter Waterproof matches Whistle (to signal for help) 60 foot Nylon rope Battery operated FM Radio Knife and or multi-tool Poncho with Hood for Rain Food (does not need to be cooked-energy bars, crackers, peanut butter, canned items) Emergency Survival Sleeping Bag Tube Tent and regular blanket or sleeping bag Pen and pad of paper for notes Pliers or wrench for turning off utilities Roll of Toilet paper in Ziploc bag Hygiene Kit – Tooth brush & paste, wet wipes, feminine items Clothing (jackets, sweatshirts, sturdy shoes, socks,underwear) Medication (prescription, Ibuprophen, & benedryl, etc.) Copies of legal documents (Birth/marriage certificates, wills, insurance policies, passports, immunization records, bank accounts.) Sturdy back pack or tote box Cash (small bills and quarters)
A few books, games, or crayons( for entertainment) Favorite stuffed animal for small children
Stay Safe
Use Common Sense. If in doubt stay put (shelter in place) unless you are told to evacuate.
at Trinidad Middle School Auditorium. The full on the Russian tale of a girl cursed by the forest wizard. Her heart is frozen until she can find true love. After intermission, there will be a medley of “Here We Come A-Caroling” which will feature local dancers. The Trinidad History Museum will entertain children as they present their Gingerbread House Contest on Dec. 8 from 11 a.m. – 2 p.m. For details and information call 719-846-7217. Holiday Shopping at its finest will be available at the Trinidad Area Arts Council which will present their 7th Annual Christmas Mercado at Gallery Main 130 E. Main Street. The Gallery features an array of art presented by local artists. The Show will run from Nov. 23-Dec. 28th from 6:30 – 8 p.m. For information call 719-846-1441. Enjoy music as the Children’s Chorale entertains the community at the Trinidad Middle School on Dec. 12. Checkout the Around Trinidad website calendar for times and additional information. Shine up those bowling balls and head to Trinidad Lanes to support the AR Mitchell Museum Bowling for Art Fundraiser. Call the Mitch for additional information at 719-846-4224.
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FRESH
AIR
Thank you for making Around Trinidad a positive and exciting highlight of our community.
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Get together your family and friends and have them help you explore town for cool finds to turn into recycled holiday decorations.
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Around Trinidad was created to feature the people, places, and events of Trinidad and the surrounding areas. Be Heard is our section to feature stories and announcements sent to us. In this section you can announce births, engagements, marriages, loss of loved ones, family reunions, anything YOU feel is important. You can email your news to info@ aroundtrinidad.com or mail it to 1513 Arizona Ave, Trinidad CO 81082. Include photos if you like. If you have ideas for our “Hall of Fame,” “Business Spotlight,” or any other section send those to us as well. Please login to our website and use the free platform; we created for you.
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Recycled Treasures Around Trinidad Holiday Contest
The Categories
BE HEARD
The Rules
Holiday Ornament Holiday Table Setting Holiday Wreath
40% of your creation must be recycled or found outside. This would include but is not limited to bottles, paper trash, leaves, branches, flowers, fruit, plastic, anything cool laying around outside that no one wants. If you use a flower, plant or other similar item you must have the property owner’s permission. Don’t grab an apple that’s not yours. One prize per category. If you enter the contest as a group you will have to share the prize fairly among yourselves. Get outside and have FUN!
Submit your photos to Around Trinidad by Tuesday, December 11th. You can email them to info@aroundtrinidad.com or mail them to 1513 Arizona Ave, Trinidad, Colorado 81082.
eauty B d HOT STIPS n a tyle
A Little Twinkle Winter fashion by E.R.A. McCarthey
Even people who make their living off of winter, like tire salesmen, chimney sweeps, and snowplow drivers, can’t seem to wait for the frosty days to end. Fortunately there’s one good thing about cold weather: winter fashion. It’s just fun, with all the layers and bold colors, not to mention the furry lambskin boots. This time of year, every glossy cover of Elle, Vogue, and Mademoiselle makes me dream of looking like one of those glam girls wrapped up in a delectable sweater and plush boots. Unfortunately every time I try to mimic one of those magazine looks, everything goes astray. Just this week I tried the tight jeans-bulky sweaterchunky boots look. It looked winter, but it didn’t work for winter. I fought with every jacket in my closet, trying to cajole one to button over my new oversized turtleneck sweater. I was relieved when I finally got my pea coat to close, but the relief washed away when I bustled over to the mirror to see that I looked about 35 pounds heavier.
All the layering would be great -- if I was studying polar bears in the Arctic for the day. I wasn’t. I was on my way to work. I made a quick stop at the coffee shop, and the second I walked in, I started overheating. By the time I got to the counter, I could feel my perspiration starting to mix with the wool of the sweater. I was waiting for my mocha and madly fanning myself with a menu, when I glanced down to see that my new furry boots had nearly been ruined by the rock salt scattered on the city sidewalks. After all the time I spent buying, planning, and putting on my new outfit, my sparkly chandelier earrings were the only thing that survived the morning. They were the least expensive part of my attire, and I got compliments on them all day. Apparently a little twinkle makes people feel good. Like any smart woman, I resort to black in the wintertime when I am especially busy. Black looks good day or night, and for a girl on the run, it doesn’t require much thought. The best thing about black is that it hides all types of flaws, like those caused by eating an entire pumpkin cheesecake on Thanksgiving. But black is not only thinning; it’s a great palette for accessories. This year, women have a lot of jewelry options. You can fall back on the old basic of diamonds, or you can try this winter’s exciting new collections of colored pearls and shells. They look fabulous with black, and they can be as dressy as a diamond necklace, while offering more personality and
flare. You can also highlight your eye color with a similar colored necklace. Nothing is more beautiful than a pair of sapphire blue eyes with a matching necklace. Rhinestones are always a holiday favorite. This season, designers are using them with fiber optic glass and silver. It’s a new take on a jeweler’s staple. Red stones can highlight the flushed skin and rosy cheeks of winter. And the fiber optics in the glass makes the necklaces, earrings, and bracelets glow. The combination creates a look that no one will forget. And something that will always go with black, more black. Onyx is a gorgeous stone that when highlighted with silver can make a simple black sweater and slacks into a classic cosmopolitan look. Dangly onyx earrings are stunning with pulled back hair. Onyx is great because it can go with almost anything. It makes red more refined, pink more subdued, and white more exotic. So don’t let gray skies and stale snow keep you from feeling beautiful. Next time you go to your closet and feel bummed out about having to squeeze your outfit under your jacket, toss on a gorgeous pair of earrings. Everyone will notice them, even with your jacket on. And unlike that oversized sweater, you can keep wearing them when the warm spring days finally return.
www.TrinidadState.edu
Career and Technical Education at TSJC. It’s EPIC!! By Kathleen Donnelly Students of all ages are thinking about how to take the first steps toward a satisfying career or how to get a better job than the one they have now. They know that education and training, resulting in valuable job skills, are key. For students who want a career-technical program, there are more than twenty programs to choose from at TSJC. TSJC’s trio of programs, designated the EPIC (Energy Production and Industrial Construction) Programs, are Diesel Technology, Heavy Equipment Technology, and Welding Technology. They will prepare students with entry-level competencies needed to gain employment, and employment opportunities in these fields continue to show growth and provide good wages. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics Occupational Outlook Handbook, the median hourly wage and salary for Diesel Service Technicians and Mechanics is $19.64/hr and $40,850.00 per year . Heavy Equipment Operators’ median earnings are $18.97/hr and $39,460.00 per year. Welders, Cutters, Solderers and Braziers earn a median wage of $17.04/hr and a median annual salary of $35,450.00. TSJC prides itself on providing a quality education starting with experienced instructors who provide individualized attention, using high-tech state of the art equipment. EPIC’s Diesel Technology instructor, Robert Miller, came to TSJC with twenty-five years’ experience in his field, and he enjoys sharing that wealth of knowledge to help his students get started in satisfying careers of their own. “Our students are having good results getting work. I get a lot of good feedback from my former students,” he said. Miller’s students learn their trade on everything from small to large engines, as well as hybrids and alternative fuel engines. A recent class project was overhauling the engine (TD466), transmission, replacing bearings in the rear end, and re-painting an ‘81 International 4900 truck donated by A&L Coors, Inc., in Alamosa. A&L Coors and Alamosa Branch Manager Gene Rodriguez have been big supporters of TSJC, having also sponsored scholarships. Miller said that the rebuilt truck is now for sale, and the proceeds will be used for scholarships for the Diesel Technology program. TSJC’s EPIC Heavy Equipment Technology and Diesel Technology programs were founded and
designed based on requests by and with significant contributions from coalbed methane production industry leaders like Pioneer Natural Resources, XTO Energy, Weatherford, Halliburton, Purgatoire Valley Construction, and El Paso Natural Gas. The Heavy Equipment program was also very fortunate to receive old de-commissioned equipment donated by the State of Colorado that was rebuilt and repaired by the Diesel Tech program. Although local jobs in the gas industry have dwindled in recent years, there are energy production job opportunities for those who will relocate, and there are many other industries that need employees with these skills, including mining, construction, agriculture, and road construction. Chuck Graham is TSJC’s Heavy Equipment instructor. His extensive experience working in this field includes road building and maintenance, bridges, construction, subdivision work, drainage, storm drains and underground piping. “I really enjoy passing on my knowledge to the students. It’s very fulfilling,” Graham says. Students in the Heavy Equipment program learn to operate backhoes, loaders, bull-dozers, excavators and road graders. They log hours of practice, on both the college’s high tech simulators and real world working experience on the actual equipment out in the field.
wheelchair ramp for a former TSJC student, who was injured. The welding department had volunteered to build a ramp, but could not, because of liability issues. Sanchez and his students still wanted to help, and raised the funds to purchase one. Trinidad State Junior College offers a wealth of Career and Technical Education, as well as Arts and Sciences programs taught by experienced, knowledgeable, dedicated, and caring instructors. For more information go to www.trinidadstate. edu. For more information about TSJC’s EPIC programs, please call Victor Gutierrez at 719-8465650. Spring Semester classes start January 14th. Photo IDs Diesel Truck: Back row l to right: Eric Smith, Asa Harvey, Dan Smith, Brandon Roybal. Front row l to right: Diesel Technology Instructor, Robert Miller, George Lara, Talon Ross, Dago Sanchez, Justin Dempsey. Photo IDs Ramp Donation: TSJC Interim President Dr. Charles Bohlen; Dean of Career & Technical Education Lynette Bates; Welding Technology Instructor, Robert Sanchez; New Mexico National Guard U.S. Army Recruiting and Retention SSG Robert Wingo.
Robert Sanchez, TSJC’s welding instructor, teaches a variety of types of welding, which opens up job opportunities in many different industries. Classes Sanchez will be teaching spring semester include Structural Welding I; Intro and Advanced Gas Tungsten ARC Welding; Plastic Pipe Welding; and Pipe Welding I and II. He will also be teaching ‘Welding for Gunsmiths’ in TSJC’s NRA Summer Gunsmithing courses this year. He offered Oxyacetylene Joining Processes; Oxyfuel and Plasma Cutting; Intro-Gas Metal Arc Welding; and Flux Cored Arc Welding during fall semester. It is hard to keep up with Sanchez’ ideas and productivity! Last year, Sanchez’ welding department students built two new gates with ‘TSJC’ welded on them, with posts fabricated to look like bullets, as well as a banner above the gates, reading, ‘Bill Prator Gun Range’. Besides being an extraordinary instructor, Sanchez is a mentor and role model for students outside of the classroom. He is the advisor for the TSJC welding club, which recently purchased and donated a
The College SPOT pg 06
Something to Cheer About! Photos courtesy of Emily Olguin and the City of Trinidad Cheer Program By David J. Santistevan, Jr. A love for the sport of cheerleading, and a passion to instill confidence in young girls has turned into a successful venture for one local mom. In the fall of 2010 Emily Olguin and her then partner Janelle Armijo started a great new program with help from the City of Trinidad Recreation Department for third, fourth, fifth and sixth grade girls with the same love of cheer as they had. “I started the program because of my love for cheer. I wanted to help prepare these girls for junior high tryouts,” Olguin told Around Trinidad proudly. “I want to give them the skills they need to succeed as they move into junior high and high school cheer. I also wanted to help instill the qualities of teamwork and confidence to make the transition into junior high a little more bearable.” The program supports the city’s youth programs, girls and boys sports programs, other youth sports teams, helps develop skills in leadership, cooperation, and in giving and receiving constructive criticism, building self-confidence, and teaching the basics in preparation for more advanced cheerleading. The participants are able to cheer on the sidelines at the youth football and basketball games, where they learn motion and jump techniques and support the teams with cheers and chants. They also have lots of fun doing it!
“Working with a large group of girls ranging from 8 – 12 years old has its challenges. We have been very fortunate to have grown as a team and not have any big problems among the girls or parents. I would love for the girls to realize that the team bond is there in the gym or at school,” Olguin added. “If there is no one else there for you, you will always have your team. The whole ‘clique’ thing starts to happen, as the girls get older. We have seen a bit of that happen.”
coaches, parents, the community center, and of course the girls for making these last three years so great. The community center has been a great help with support for the program as they provide the practice space and make Xerox copies needed for the girls. Thanks to TSJC, Hometown Holidays, and Mt. Carmel Wellness Center, alongside the Little League Football and Basketball teams - we have been able to show the community what we can do.”
The idea for the cheer team was a simple one. Olguin wanted to benefit girls who did not have experience before their middle school tryouts. “You feel alone out there,” Olguin explained. “It is an incredible feeling not to have any self-confidence at all. Walking out in front of a crowd and the judges is an uneasy feeling. The program gives the young girls a taste of what that is like and they learn what it takes to be a cheerleader.”
The group works on many teambuilding projects throughout the year to make sure each girl works together as a team and not just with her buddies. “All of the parents have been very supportive. They are never shy to share their opinions with me and the other coaches. I try to always take into consideration what they have to say and make the best possible decision to work for everyone.”
“The community has supported me from the very first day,” she continued. “We have been invited to perform at many of the community events each year, which is great because these girls love to perform. Whenever we work the concession stands at the little league baseball games in the summer months, we always receive compliments and additional donations with purchases. We were also fortunate enough to have received donations from First National Bank, Pioneer Natural Resources, and Jim Davis this year,” Olguin added gratefully.
Join the cheer team as they open up the next annual cheer contest at the Trinidad State Jr. College high school basketball invitational at the end of the month with a performance for all in attendance. For more information call the Trinidad Community Center at 719-846-4454 or Coach Olguin at 719-859-2290. You can also follow the City Of Trinidad Cheer Team on Facebook at https://www. facebook.com/cityoftrinidad.cheer
“I would like to thank my coaches and past
Sports
TSJC Sports Schedule TSJC Men’s Basketball 11/9 11/10 11/12 11/13 11/16 11/17 11/23 11/24 11/27 12/4 12/7
SE Stars New Mexico JC Hutchinson CC Tabor JV Air Force JV Air Force Prep Colby CC Garden City CC Colorado Christian JV Laramie County CC McCook CC
La Junta, CO La Junta, CO Hutchinson, KS Hillsboro, KS Colorado Springs, CO Colorado Springs, CO Garden City, KS Garden City, KS Trinidad, CO Cheyenne, WY Trinidad, CO
3:00 PM 3:00 PM 7:00 PM* 4:00 PM* 7:00 PM 1:00 PM 3:30 PM* 7:30 PM* 7:00 PM 7:00 PM 7:00 PM
La Junta, CO La Junta, CO Colby, KS Dodge City, KS
1:00 1:00 TBACT 2:00 CT
Dodge City, KS
6:00 CT
Garden City, KS
2:00 CT
Garden City, KS
6:00 CT
Trinidad, CO Colorado Springs, CO Trinidad, CO Trinidad, CO
TBA 5:00 7:00 5:00
TSJC Women’s Basketball 11-9 11-10 11-13 11-16 11-17 11-23 11-24 11-26 11-27 12-4 12-7
+TBA (Otero Classic) +TBA (Otero classic) Colby C.C. Garden City C.C. (Dodge City Classic) Dodge City C.C. (Dodge City Classic) Seward County C.C. (Garden City Classic) Garden City C.C. (Garden City Classic) Colby C.C. Air Force Prep Adams State JV McCook CC
Weekly Horoscopes Aries
It is clear to everyone that you love to make your own decisions, but this week it will be better if you discuss the situation with your partners. Work in progress is successful, however, to keep the results you will have to be patient, flexible and analyze facts from various countries. Do not stay without a job, doing nothing will make you feel discouraged. The time is ripe for settlement of personal relationships – it will play in your favor.
Taurus
Relations with relatives this week might be a little conflicting. If you feel frustrated with silly whims or decisions it will be best to distance yourself and let them break their heads. Do not abandon your professional duties because it will harm finances or your position. It is likely you will create new business contacts and find new opportunities for expression.
Gemini
If during the previous weeks, some things seem difficult, then this does not continue. You have a very active period in terms of your creative potential. You are able to come up with really easy, fast, yet innovative solutions. Take advantage this capacity - right now you can make a bunch of ideas work that until recently were beyond your means. Do not overlook the possibilities of entertainment - pay tribute to friends and loved ones, their love is with you.
Cancer
You will have no reason to complain if you do not go, my dear Cancer. Use every opportunity, even the most insignificant ones, to progress in work and improve your situation. Opportunities will be missing - first refresh your contacts, or if you feel that some of them have exhausted their content, find a way to limit them. Do not give help out unless you ask - exactly what will be the potential opportunity for profits.
Leo
It seems that this week you will have the opportunity to unleash your dignity on several fronts. Be careful in two directions. On the one hand consideration, carefully laid plans on the other. Accept the difficulties and opportunities for change as an important motive for action. If you rush ahead - stop there. You will have professional commitments, but that does not mean you have to put aside your personal life. Take the initiative in your hands, you cannot go wrong.
Virgo
The strong incentive this week is called “love.� It will inspire you in absolutely everything - from the settlement of employment relations to smoothing conflicts with relatives and clarifying misunderstandings with family members. You will experience a series of smaller or greater changes and all will feel very inspiring. Relations will undergo expansion and progress. Take reasonable proposals and act decisively - this is the way.
Libra
Try to clear old debts early in the week. Pay attention not only to material but also moral obligations. Then take the time to set things in order to complete even the least important tasks. Do not try to transfer your work to someone else and do not fret if you have to do something unexpected. Respond with a smile, so you gain not only fans, but also assistants.
Scorpio
Almost daily you will need to make some adjustments to your plans. This is actually a good thing. Circumstances will change in your favor. Things that once were left unfinished will now find a solution. This will spur activity. You will resume some abandoned contacts. Disputes over any issues will be resolved thanks to your participation. Romantic relationships also develope positively. You cannot do anything but to enjoy success.
Sagittarius
Unfinished projects, ideas and designs will finally be resolved. After a brief analysis and assessment of the situation you will decide which ones are worthwhile and what efforts are being wasted. This will be very useful because this will spread your resources properly and you will start slowly but steadily to realize your desires. New contacts will most likely be associated with business and will help you progress undisputed.
Capricorn
Some minor events at the beginning of the week will direct your actions for change and will take quite some time for consideration. Thanks to conversations with friends and their active involvement you will fight with conservatism, albeit partially. Follow your priorities, rely on intuition and you cannot go wrong. You will deal with a series of sweeping issues almost effortlessly. People entering into your life this week are far from random through them you will find new ways of selling.
Aquarius
Focus attention on resolving material issues. If so far you approached them with a laid back attitude, you will now have to react very accurately and analytically. Take time to study the competition. Do not waste time with nonsense, because instead of aiding your progress that will hold you back. Rely on old friends, but do not reject new proposals.
Pisces
Lay down, avoid bottlenecks and try to create a relaxed atmosphere. This week it is good to focus primarily on your personal settlement problems. Save your strength - your energy level is slightly unstable, there is a danger of an upset or other health problems that may affect your work. A short trip or an important business meeting will end with a good result for you.
Trinidad Hall of FAME
DEDICATED TO LIFE By Marty Hackett
“Help! There’s been an accident!” As the first responders, EMTs and paramedics arrive on scene, they arrive ready to respond effectively and their training kicks in. “Are you OK? What happened?” they ask the injured, hoping for a response. Nothing…. Their mind goes through everything that they’re supposed to remember: scene safety, putting on gloves, and “ABC” — Airway, Breathing, Circulation. “She’s bleeding, but that’s C. Breathing comes first. Check her airway!” he thinks. “Look, listen, and feel for a breath. There it is. Now, does she have a pulse?” In order for first responders to be effective they have to take their emotions out of the equation, but they must deal with those emotions eventually. Often, for those who arrive first on the scene, the events can be especially difficult. They may be confronted with chaos, and they may not have time to prepare themselves for the things they are about to witness. It may be too much, too ugly, too soon and the enormity of the situation can overpower the brain. They don’t have the opportunity to prepare for many situations. They are helping people while at the same time they are overpowered with the enormity ... that is where training and resiliency takes over. The Trinidad Ambulance District and the first responders associated with this agency are dedicated to one thing. Life. These first responders deserve so much more credit than they receive. Not only do they dedicate their own lives to help save the lives of others, they continue to make sure that the community is trained to help them with their mission. “We have trained individuals and issued AEDs in nearly every agency in our area,” said Executive Director Brandon Chambers. Training was provided for the Trinidad Police Department SWAT medic program; A Flight for Life on Tour symposium was hosted to administer EMS Critical and Emergency Care; they also collaborated with other safety and health organizations to produce a Drive Smart Colorado/Teen Maze; and TAD hosts Car Seat Check points annually in their Ambulance Bay.
In addition, they participate in and/or provide free volunteer standby services for - the 9 News Health Fair at MSRH; Santa Fe Trail Days; Little Britches Rodeo; Mud Bog Races; Cokedale Days; Cuchara to Segundo Ride the Rockies bike race; Noah’s Ark Doggie Dash/5K race; Labor Day Rodeo; Hometown Holidays Parade of Lights; Trinidad School District High School football season; the Kiwanis Duck Race and the Annual Drive-thru Flu Clinic where they standby in the event of allergic reactions and monitor wait time.
“This is our practice for emergency preparedness,” Chambers explained, noting that they also require practice moving patients during a pandemic event. Also available is a public accessible AED program and First Aid/CPR training for for-profit as well as not-for-profit entities such as schools, community service groups, area businesses and institutions and their employees. The training that is made available to the community is to prepare residents and other community members who could, in the real world, be the only first responders available, assisting themselves and others in their neighborhoods or workplaces following an event or incidence when professional responders are not immediately available to help. All one needs in addition to this training is a willingness to save yourself, your family, and perhaps others around you. “We are trying to work together as a community,” explained Chambers as he reviewed the list of collaborations and training available to agencies, residents, and others. While it may seem that all they’re involved in is more than enough, the priority for the Trinidad Ambulance District still lies in emergency response. “We respond to on average 5.5 calls per day throughout the county.” These responses are made utilizing two ambulances which are available 24-7 with on-call back up located at both the east (Garcia Justice Center) and west side ambulance stations (on Robinson Street). The vehicles are staffed by the six full-time EMTs and six full-time paramedics who work rotating 24-hour shifts. In Las Animas County, a total of six ambulances and five completely equipped SUVs are available for emergency response in Stonewall, Cokedale, Branson, Hoehne and a full size ambulance is located in Aguilar to help service the I-25 corridor. The TAD collaborates with Mt. San Rafael Hospital, all volunteer fire departments within the county, the Trinidad Fire Department, Police
Department and Sheriff ’s Department. And, they provide inter-facility transfers of patients to other hospitals located in New Mexico and Colorado.
“We stay pretty busy,” said Chambers. “We have an ambulance out on call now!” While any of us would hope that we never have to make that 911 call for an ambulance, we all can rest assured that our community is not only well equipped, but prepared and trained to respond to any emergency we might face thanks to the Trinidad Ambulance District first responders. Thank an EMT or Paramedic today. They may one day save your life or help someone you love.
HEALTHY LIVING Raising Awareness of Diabetes By Elvira Martin RN, BSN, CDE Diabetes touches all our lives in one way or another. If we are not diabetic, we have a loved one or know someone who is. November is National Diabetes Month and I would like to help you understand diabetes. What we see the most in our community is Type 2 Diabetes. We are also affected by Type 1. You might ask “What is the difference?” In Type 1 diabetes, the beta cells in the pancreas totally quit making insulin. The person usually is a child, teenager, or young adult and immediately has to start on insulin. In Type 2 Diabetes, the person is usually older, he or she may be on the “fluffy” side, their B/P and cholesterol levels may be elevated and they may have a family member who is diabetic. Usually, those people can be treated with oral medications for quite a while. Both types have a high blood sugar or too much sugar in their blood that is higher than normal. In Type 2 Diabetes, the body either does not make enough insulin or it cannot use the insulin it makes. This used to be an adult disease but now we are finding it in children. So what can we do? Well, let us first look at what we can do to prevent it in our children and grandchildren. First of all, we should eliminate pop, juices or any of the sugary drinks or at least reduce the amounts we drink. We should also try to limit fast foods and junk foods such as deserts, candy, potato chips, cookies or pastries. It is also very important
that our children are active. When they spend too much time in front of the television, computer or video games, children gain unnecessary weight and become insulin resistive. The same is true for adults. We need to eat a healthy, well-balanced diet and watch fats and the number of carbohydrates we eat. Carbs being the foods we like- potatoes, rice, pasta, breads and of course deserts and junk food can cause us to gain unnecessary weight, high blood pressure and diabetes. None of us eat enough vegetables or drink enough water. So it really helps to increase the vegetable servings and decrease the starch servings. And of course, we need to get off the couch and move more! So what do we do if we are diabetics? The same pretty much applies-less carbohydrates, more vegetables and of course increase your activity. It’s also very important that you take your medications as the doctor prescribes them. Learning as much as you can about diabetes and how to care for yourself is also very important. If you need help or don’t understand how to deal with all there is to work with, we have a diabetes program that may be of some help to you. It is run and sponsored by Mt. San Rafael Hospital and the Las Animas County Public Health Department. Many types of insurance will pay for diabetes selfmanagement training. We do have a scholarship program to help people who are either uninsured or under insured. You may call Elvira Martin, RN, for additional information or answers to your questions at 719-846-7436 or 846-2213 ext. 38. Here are just a few of the recent statistics on diabetes:
TSJC
Upcoming Events
TSJC High School Invitational Basketball Tournaments at Scott Gym Thursday, Nov 29; Friday, Nov 30; and Saturday, Dec 1 TSJC Theater Department presents ‘Footlight Frenzy’ in the Massari Performing Arts Center Wednesday, Dec 5; Thursday, Dec 6; Saturday, Dec 8 at 7:00 p.m.; Sunday, Dec 9 at 2:00 p.m. TSJC Music Department Pro Concert Featuring Guitarist Jacquie Gipson, Massari Performing Arts Center Friday, Dec 7 at 7:30 p.m. TSJC Music Department Concert, Massari Performing Arts Center Tuesday, Dec 11 at 7:00 p.m.
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Nearly 26 million children and adults in the United States have diabetes. Another 79 million Americans have prediabetes and are at risk for developing type 2 diabetes. The American Diabetes Association estimates that the total national cost of diagnosed diabetes in the United States is $174 billion.
Can you count to five? Then you can help stop diabetes. Whether you want to advocate, get walking, get riding, volunteer or donate, your involvement brings the American Diabetes Association one day closer to a world without diabetes. So act now! Visit www.stop diabetes.com for ways you can help.
DELICIOUS Rollin’ into the Holidays DISHES Thanksgiving is a special day for remembering the many blessings in our lives and for gathering together as family. Dinner is always a highlight of the holiday with family recipes gracing the table. Here are some tried and true family recipes from a local St. Joseph’s cookbook of years gone by. Orange-Cranberry Torte Eva McKinnon 2 1/4 c. sifted flour 1 c. diced dates 1 c. sugar 1 c. chopped walnuts ¼ tsp. salt 1 c. halved cranberries 1 tsp. baking powder grated rinds of 2 med. Sized oranges 1 tsp. soda 1 c. buttermilk 2 eggs 1 c. orange juice ¾ c. oil 1 c. brown sugar Sift together flour, sugar, salt, baking powder and soda into mixing bowl. Add dates, walnuts, cranberries, and orange rinds. Mix well. Thoroughly mix eggs, buttermilk and oil. Spoon batter into well- greased and lightly floured 10 inch tube pan. Bake in preheated oven to 350 degrees about one hour or until wooden pick inserted near center of torte comes out clean. Meanwhile combine orange juice and brown sugar, heat until sugar is melted, cool to lukewarm. Let torte cool to lukewarm, then turn out of pan. Place it on rack over a large pan or plate with rim. Pour orange juice, brown sugar mixture over torte to cover all areas. Let it drip into pan and pour over torte once more. Wrap torte in heavy aluminum foil and chill 24 hours before serving. It will keep two weeks or longer in the refrigerator. Also may be frozen. Serve plain or with whipped cream. Serves 12- 16. Tyrolian Turkey Dressing Rose Calagaris 1 loaf of bread crumbs 2 chicken bouillon cubes 2 c. water 1 onion 1 cube butter ½ tsp salt 1 lb. ground round ¼ tsp pepper Pinch of sage leaves or dressing spice mix. Melt butter in frying pan. Add onion and cook until light brown. Add ground meat and spices and cook until meat is done. Moisten bread with bouillon cube water. Mix all ingredients together and stuff into turkey.
Brick City Roller Derby By E.R.A. McCarthey Want to see amazing feats of athleticism, theatrical grudge matches, and booty bumps…then check out Trinidad’s Brick City Roller Derby. The group is currently comprised of 15 derby girls, 2 refs, a fitness coach and a counselor. They are looking for more members because they will be dividing into two teams and want to put on a lot of cool shows here in town. All ages of women over 18 are welcome and men can join in the fun as trainers and referees. Most of the ladies are moms so you can bring your kids to practice and have them cheer you on. They are expecting their first bout to be in January so there is still plenty of time to “get up to speed” with the other girls. Every derby girl has a character complete with “boutfits” and interesting personalities. Right now the team has Attached Radical, Lady Lorna, Pro De Zoe, Astro Fairy, Rowdy Ragdoll, Manic Pixie Kill Girl, Bettie Drape, .40 Cal Cowgirl, Miss Morgana, I Shove Lucy, Tracker Jack-Her, Jendestructible, Denali Hellcat, Scalisocky, and Maulin’ Rouge. Practices are held Tuesday and Thursday from 4:30pm to 6:00pm and Saturdays from 10am to 12pm. The girls are currently using the Skateland
facilities but the area is a little small and they can’t really knock each other out of bounds as enthusiastically as they’d like to. They are currently looking for someone to donate a large area, at least for the actual bouts. In an interview Lady Lorna said “We girls are working hard to prepare ourselves for the day of our first home bout, now we need as many volunteers as possible to help us achieve our dream. A main objective of ours is to join the Women’s flat track derby association (WFTDA). Besides having to pay $300 with our application, we have to compete in a bout against a WFTDA League. That could be accomplished in early 2013. The other requirement is that we host a bout in our hometown. That may be where we need some help. We need a place big enough for one. We hope a reader will have a suggestion and contact us. And for two teams we need more support staff.” The Brick City Roller Derby is a great addition to our community. They are a non-profit organization and once they are bringing in monies over what they need for team expenses they will donate to other local non-profits. To join the team, be on staff, or offer a bout location you can contact: Tomy 719-868-2200 / 719-845-7923 trinidadderby@hotmail.com Lina 719-846-7202 Linaduncan22@gmail.com
BUSINESS SPOTLIGHT Ringing the Bells By David J. Santistevan, Jr. Since 1883 the Trinidad Salvation Army has helped out families, organizations and residents in the Trinidad and Las Animas County Area by maintaining a non-perishable food pantry that can be accessed by anyone in need at least once a month. This holiday season, the local office will begin its traditional “Red Kettles” drive in the Trinidad area, and starting Nov.23 the local Salvation Army will hold its other grand tradition the “Ringing of Bells” at Safeway and Wal-Mart, and for the first time donations will be able to be made with credit/ debit cards. “The other great thing, well it’s new, the Trinidad Salvation Army will be able to process donations with credit/debit cards this holiday,” Bernadette Davis, Manager of the Trinidad Service Center Office of the Salvation Army said. “This will be the first time we will be able to accept credit cards, I think it’s great! Anyone can feel free to contact me with your card information or we will gladly mail you a form that may be completed in your home at your convenience. We thank everyone for their donations in advance which allows us to assist those in need in our fine community.” The Salvation Army was re-established in the late 1960s and had been an active part of the community, especially during the November and December holiday seasons. “We also have a coat rack, and provide vouchers to local business people,” Davis added. ‘We work closely with other non-profits, and all agencies in the Trinidad area including the Department of Human Services, the police/sheriffs departments, AADA, and the local soup kitchen.” In the first ten months of 2012, the local office has assisted over 4,000 locals, utilizing about $20,000 annually coming in to provide continued services. Davis expects that over 5,200 lbs. of much needed supplies will be given away over the next month and half with her four main volunteers: Don and Sue Larssen, Mary Ann Johnson, and Louese Nelson, with John and Betty Gonzales a big part of our Bell Ringing every year. The annual Bell Ringing has over 50 volunteers, which include people from the Kiwanis, Rotary, and Masons Clubs as well as members of local churches. Davis began her committed, life-long service to the Trinidad Salvation Army over 33-years ago, when she inherited it from Lloyd Cotter. “I believe in the mission of the Salvation Army. I honestly love to help people, that is what the Lord has called us to do,” Davis stood up and proudly
added. “When you see that your help, the office’s help has produced good fruits for those in need that is what helps us do this every day of every year. The work becomes worth it.”
The Red Kettle is a huge and popular Christmas tradition, and this year the Salvation Army will hold the annual Bell Ringing every ThursdaySaturday at the Trinidad Safeway Store and Friday and Saturday’s at Wal-Mart. The Mini-Kettles will be found on counter tops at various locations throughout the Trinidad area. “We want to thank the many people, businesses and organizations who give time, money, products and services to the local Salvation Army, because without them we could not help those in need,” Davis said emotionally. “We thank you for your donations and the help that allows us to assist those in need locally.” Davis recalls many of those she has helped out over the years. She remembers one family who stands out in her mind that did not qualify for assistance. “We knew we had to do something, they had kids of different ages,” Davis added. “We showed up at their door on Dec. 23 with dinner and a big bag of gifts, and they were so thankful for the help that holiday.” Another story Davis talked proudly of was a person who was battling cancer, who the Salvation Army provided assistance to including help with funds to go back and forth to treatments. This individual is now in remission and will be forever thankful to Davis and the Salvation Army for their help. For more information, visit the office at 104 W. First Street in Trinidad, between 9 a.m. and 12 p.m. Monday-Friday or call 719-846-3252.
Art and Music Through the Eyes of Extraordinary Young Artists Trinidad Area Arts Council presents THS and TMS Art By Marty Hackett When TAAC Director Kimber Begano heard that artwork produced by Trinidad High School and Trinidad Middle School students would be hanging in the hallways and classrooms at the schools, she stepped-up and offered to hang the art at the Gallery Main. “We are a youth based organization,” Begano explained, “so what better place to display it?” She also noted that the talent displayed by our local youth was extraordinary and should be shared with the community! Art Instructors Nanci Rollins at TMS and Cathleen Roth at THS selected pieces and took them to the gallery where the walls were then covered with our surprisingly talented youth’s work. The assignments for sixth, seventh and eighth grade students were to create self-portraits, alteregos, a form of “dot art” and tessellations which is a specialized form of art including animals and other life forms, covering the surface in a symmetrical way without overlapping or leaving gaps. The high school students were given more liberal guidelines, and could create freely. The art show was opened on Nov. 9th with a reception for family, friends and community and continued until Nov. 15th.
COLD WEATHER SAFETY FOR PETS Noah’s Ark Animal Welfare Association 224 North Chestnut Street Trinidad, CO 81082 719-680-2385 Fax 719-680-2386 www.noahsarktrinidad.com noahsarktrinidad@gmail.com Kim Riddle, Noah’s Ark Executive Director Jenna Waldschmidt, Marketing Committee
Here are some simple ways to keep your pets safe in cold weather; 1) If you have a small or short haired pet, consider outfitting your pet in a sweater or jacket 2) Limit your pets outside during bad weather (anything temperature under 32 degrees) to under 30 minutes 3) Don’t let your dog off its leash during snow storms as they can lose scent only to become disoriented and lost 4) Let your dog’s hair grow out in the winter time (except the hair between the toes that can cause ice balls to form when wet)- Mother Nature gives our pets thicker hair in the winter for a reason. ANIMALS SEEKING WARMTH Beware of small animals trying to find warmth in odd places such as piles of clothes, and car engines. As precautions, make sure to check your pile of clothes before you put it into the washer and check your engines in your cars if you park them outside before starting your cars on cold days.
Special Contribution by Michelle Williams; Noah’s Ark Animal Welfare Association Board of Directors While Mother Nature is waking up Old Man Winter, it is time for us to prepare ourselves, and our pets for the cold and sometimes brutal weather. Animal of all age deal with the cold differently; while the puppies may be harder to house train because of the cold weather outside our older pets may have arthritis issues. Being informed of the common dangers of cold weather and its potential dangers makes us all become better pet owners. COLD WEATHER DANGERS If it’s too cold for you to be outside, then it’s too cold for your pet! Pets are just as vulnerable to hypothermia and frostbite as people; and unfortunately thousands of dogs and cats die each year from these conditions. Obviously longhaired dogs do better in the winter because of the warmth their hair provides, but also because only their lower legs are mostly in the snow. Whereas, our shorthaired dogs have their entire bodies exposed thru the wet and cold snow. Keeping the body heat regulated is more difficult for pets with medical conditions such as heart disease and diabetes. Animals tend to lose heat through theirs, ears, feet, and respiratory tract, so while a sweater can be helpful, it will only work for a short period. Frostbite occurs when ice crystals form in the body’s tissues causing damage. The extremities, such as ears, are the most vulnerable. The frostbitten areas may appear pink, gray, black or white. If an area appears to have suffered from frostbite, the area should be soaked in “warm” water for 20 minutes. Never rub frostbitten tissue and make sure to contact your local veterinarian for further medical attention immediately. Hypothermia is loss of body heat causing them to whine, become anxious, shivers, refusing to move. They can show signs of depression, weakness and lethargy and in particular lack of response to stimuli. In case of hypothermia, the animal should be wrapped in a blanket and contact your veterinarian immediately.
TOXIC & LETHAL SUBSTANCES Dogs, especially puppies, and cats are attracted to antifreeze because of the sweet smell and taste and a small amount can be fatal. The survival rate is minimal unless immediate medical treatment is received. Antifreeze is quickly absorbed and symptoms can appear as soon as 30 minutes after ingestion. It may seem as if the animal is intoxicated by stumbling and vomiting. Kidneys are the most sensitive to this poison and you can expect kidney failure with 12 - 24 hours for cats and 36 - 72 hours for dogs. This is a very painful and horrible death for an animal, especially when it can be prevented most of the time. If you suspect that your pet has ingested antifreeze, contact your veterinarian immediately. We can reduce the chances of our pets being poisoned by using an antifreeze that contain propylene glycol rather than ethylene glycol reduces the flavor appeal the toxicity. Keeping animals away from areas where antifreeze and other toxins are used is recommended. However, sometimes these same areas are only the refuge out of the weather. In these cases, be careful not to leave any open antifreeze containers sitting out, make sure and clean up any spills and watching for leaks on vehicles can reduce risk of poisoning. Also, be cautious when putting out the bait and poisons to kill mice and rodents as they move inside for the winter months ahead. EMERGENCY KIT We never know when an emergency can arise causing us and our pets to seek shelter away from home. Just as we keep and emergency kit available to take with or keep in the trunk or our car, it is wise to have some for our pets. Items recommended for your kit are pet food, litter, fresh water supply, warm bedding and always remember to take your pets medications with you. WARM PLACE TO SLEEP & EAT Nature tells us to eat more when winter is approaching, this extra weight that animals put on keeps them warm in the cold winter months. Remember to check on your pets water bowls, if they are outside, to ensure they aren’t frozen in cold temperatures. Deep rubber water and food dishes are recommended and never use metal water or food dishes as your pets tongue can get stuck to it
causing injury. A lot of our inside pets find comfort in sleeping on the bed with his family rather than on a doggie bed. However, for those that do not have that option, you can still keep your pets warm at night. Using a shed, a garage or laundry room can ensure the wind does not make the cold worst for your pet. Beds that are 3 inches off the ground it will help avoid drafts. Heated dog beds are an option but not recommended for puppies or dogs that have “chewing on things” fetish. Your best bet is to allow any pet indoors, even in an enclosed area, for the nights when temperatures drop below freezing, which during the winter is most evenings. Bottom line, it’s our job to care for and protect our furry family members. When you adopt or buy a pet, it becomes our duties to ensure they are safe, fed and healthy. Although some pets prefer to be outside pets, it does not mean that their bodies agree. Provide your pets with options for warmth and make sure to be tuned in to your pet’s needs. When it’s cold outside, there is nothing better than snuggling up with a warm fuzzy friend inside! ABOUT NOAH’S ARK ANIMAL WELFARE ASSOCIATION Founded in 2001, Noah’s Ark Animal Welfare Association is a non-profit 501(c)(3) organization with a mission to enhance the care and living conditions of domestic animals within the city of Trinidad and Las Animas county. The shelter provides direct care for more than 1,000 animals annually. For more information about Noah’s Ark, please call 719-680-2385 or on the web at www. noahsarktrinidad.org.
Paw News
EDUCATION The Man from Turtle Island RMSER Head Start Hosts Enriching Cultural Event for Students By E.R.A. McCarthey “Are you REAL!” asked an excited 3 year old with big shining eyes. “Yes I’m real, I’m not pretend,” said the tall man with an easygoing voice and beautiful braided hair dressed in traditional Apache garb. Students learned stories, dances, beliefs, and songs from the Jacarilla Apache culture last week at the Trinidad campus. Levi Montoya, whose granddaughter Annika attends the school, made presentations to several classes about Apache beliefs and culture. He will eventually present to every class at the school. Levi plays a traditional drum and flute, as well as teaching the kids a customary dance while he sings to them in Apache. Mr. Montoya wears a red shirt with white, black, and yellow ribbons on it as a tribute to all the people on Earth. He explains that all people, regardless of color, are just as important. He also informed the students that the “red people” (Native Americans) came from Turtle Island which spans North America and some of South America. He also states that when “white people first came to Turtle Island we helped them survive because it was different here and they didn’t know how to live here.” This is a perfect Thanksgiving lesson. Though many of us forget, Thanksgiving in the
USA comes from the first large meal the Pilgrims and Native Americans shared so long ago. Mr. Montoya also told the students about the importance of animals “four-legged people.” Many of the kids excitedly replied to the question “what is your favorite animal.” Bears, horses and dogs were very popular among the children. One little girl was insistent that she was a princess and loves ponies. Overall, the lesson was wonderful and Levi taught the kids with thoughtfulness and patience. It was a very enriching event and necessary lesson. So many stories from Turtle Island are being forgotten in our fast-paced world, the USA made its’ home on Turtle Island, his people are here; we should take a minute and listen to their songs.
NEW VIEWS Comments about the Cultural Event at RMSER Head Start Nicholas 3yrs “I learned the right way to hit the drums.” Mia 3yrs “It was Good.” Juanito 4yrs “Well, ummm, umm, I learned about Apaches… The feathers are cool.” Brayton 4yrs “I liked the dancing the most.”
Doing a LOT with a Little City Parks and Rec. Departments By David J. Santistevan Jr. Photos Courtesy of Around Trinidad.com Parks Superintendent Dave Esquibel and Recreation Superintendent Marty Velasquez have maintained Trinidad’s parks and facilities as well as administered many adult and child programs for many years, doing a lot of work in a timely and professional manner with limited resources and staff. “They have done a fantastic job,” former Trinidad Mayor Jennie Garduno said. “What would we do without the dedicated and hard-working staff in those two departments,” asked Joe Reorda, another former Mayor who saw the work they have produced first hand for over 10 years. Velasquez recalls the recreation department when he first started in 1996 working with a staff of only three, overseeing three boys’ programs, and two youth girls’ programs in grades three through six. “We also maintained the (municipal swimming) pool, and after a few years we picked up the programs the local Optimist Club and the YMCA left behind to serve the kids K-third grade,” Velasquez reflected. “I am thankful for my hard working staff I have had over the years. As our programs have grown in numbers of participants, our staff has remained dedicated to adults and children’s programs, and the city has been very supportive.” Under the direction of Recreation Superintendent Velasquez and his staff baseball (250 kids), basketball (200 kids), football (120 kids), and volleyball (80 girls) are offered at the Southside Park and Gagliardi Sports Complex in addition to all swimming activities at the new pool. The
sports and recreation programs work in collaboration with other youth organizations like the AYSO soccer programs and the Trinidad Cheer program. The staff in the recreation department also help organize the pool’s day to day activities and maintenance, and organize and maintain the Community Center where many residents and local organizations utilize the meeting and rec rooms. On average, over 200 kids and adults use the center on a weekly basis and an additional 15 or so utilize the showers every week. And going the extra mile, in emergency circumstances where the interstate is closed due to inclement weather, the staff has helped out travelers who are stranded, giving shelter at times to nearly 350 families and individuals as the “emergency place for the Red Cross.” “We do what we can, said Velasquez. “Our staff works hard for our citizens. We serve TOPPS, Unions, all Non-Profit Groups; we have dance, trainings, we have fitness classes and many more meeting and programs for all ages. The most rewarding part of my job is watching the kids over the years grow up and succeed in high school and college, to know they used the center’s programs to grow.” For the Parks Department and Esquibel it has been a long fun journey since he first took on his position in 1982, having just completed 30-years of service with the city. “Dave has been an asset to our city,” commented Interim City Manager Ralph Gagliardi. “When I took over as Interim City Manager I was surprised about how much city property he and his department have to maintain. He and his department continue to make the city look good and they do a great job! My hat is off to them,” said Gagliardi. Current City Councilman Joe Bonato added, “All of our departments do such a great job keeping
our city up, the parks and recreation departments are such a vital part of the city and giving our citizens things to do and places to utilize with their families.” Esquibel was hired into the Sports and Park Department, and then after 14-years, in 1995, he transferred to the City Power Plant and then returned to the Parks Department where he has worked for the last eight years as the superintendent. “I have been here a long time,” said Esquibel. “Twenty-one-years as a department head and about nine years with the union. It has been great working for the city. We have a lot more parks and areas that we have to maintain now, but my crews really do a great job on all of the cities facilities.”
When Esquibel first started he only had four workers outside and three including him on the inside to run all of the programs and maintain city facilities. Now staff has increased to 10 including Esquibel, and his department must maintain five large parks (Central Park, Cimino Park, Southside Park, Kit Carson Park and Los Ninos Park) with his men controlling 22 other areas within the city including the library, Colorado Ave. islands, City Hall, Victoria Square, the Welcome Center and Senior Center grass areas, with the total acreage including the new I-25 Highway totaling 31.4 acres. We are blessed to have great workers who work hard every day. Dave and Marty and all of our department heads should be commended for doing a fantastic job!
TRINIDAD TREASURES Little Snippets of Love by David J. Santistevan Jr. Photo by Around Trinidad.com Volunteering their time, materials and talent, the Quilt Club at the Harry Sayre Senior Center in Trinidad has helped raise money for the center for many years. “We just volunteer our time,” explained Lybia Garcia. “This club has been here for a long time, we enjoy it. What we make here in the club the Senior Center sells and the money goes back to the center.” The Quilt Club makes many different blankets, quilts, and other clothing items for the center to sell at their October Bizarre Sale, the Christmas season and all other center events. “The club has made quite a few items for sale over the years and we feel it is great for us and helps the center with some money to pay for things they need here,” Lena Valentine added proudly. The women love to come down to the center to work with the others as one of their favorite hobbies. “I have been quilting since I was little,” explained Garcia. “My mother was the one who taught me. When I first got involved with the center, I decided since I spend so much time doing this I thought I would join the Quilt Club here.”
in the nineteenth century brought quilting with them. Eventually quilting came to the Great Plains. Quilting was a craft that adapted well to the Great Plains and quilts became an important asset to settlers on the plains. Not only could they be used on beds, they were also useful as covers for doors and windows and as floor mats for the children to play on. In many cases they were also used as currency to pay bills. Although some women continued to use remnants from clothes to piece their quilts, most learned to take advantage of the wide variety of colorful calicos to create works of art. The wide open spaces and relative isolation of the Great Plains also made the idea of the “quilting bee” attractive. At a quilting bee women from the area would bring quilt tops that were already pieced and work together to quilt the top. The quilting bee afforded plains women a chance to socialize. Often a quilting bee would be a full day affair with lunch served to the women who came to help and dinner for all the families. Sometimes there would be a dance in the evening. One of the happier functions of the quilting bee was to help provide young women with quilts for their hope chests. Information from the History of Quilting by Julie Johnson, Emporia State University Center for Great Plains Studies
Believe... A Thanksgiving Prayer For forests tall and oceans deep For canyons wide and mountains steep For sunset skies of pink and gold For every sunrise we behold For Winter’s snow and springtime’s thaw For Summer’s warmth and Autumn’s awe For roofs that keep the rain away For walls that hold it all at bay For work that puts food on the table For health and rest to keep us able For friends and family around us For years to come, may they surround us For soldiers fighting for our peace For days to come when wars may cease For hope, so burdens won’t enslave us For thy forgiveness which will save us For feast, and those with whom we share it For loving hands that did prepare it For all that makes this life worth living We take this time on this Thanksgiving To bow our heads and bend a knee And pause to look around and see For all that was, is, and shall be We have none to thank, Oh Lord, but thee. Thank you to Author Eddie Mallonen
The current quilt the club was working on was a patriotic quilt, with all materials and supplies donated. The club meets every Thursday afternoon to work on each project. “We love the country here, that is the idea for this quilt,” Valentine said with a smile. “This is one of the best quilts to date we have made. We makeup the ideas ourselves. We really don’t have a name for this one, but we like it.” In the nineteenth century quilt-making flourished especially in the period between 1825 and 1875. As the original colonists had brought quilting from the old world, the settlers who began moving west
In Memory of Austin Baca-Cordova May 5, 1995 – Nov. 6, 2012 “Forever Young”
FAITH
The first Thanksgiving celebrated by Pilgrims in the New World included the Native Americans that helped them survive. Later Thanksgivings celebrated battles won over Native Americans. When you count your blessings this year, make sure you thank all the people who have helped you obtain them and never forget down the road when loyalty may be tested. Have the faith to do what is right, not what is easiest. E.R.A. McCarthey
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