As everyone knows, the month of March is known for its windy days, which is good for flying kites! Rico is a place that knows that it also means blowing snow, blizzard conditions, white-outs and some vacant lots that look like the ocean with their waves of snow. Commuting to Telluride has been hazardous with the wind and total white-outs. Jenny Nunley and Tina Godisak came very close to going over the edge of a sheer drop-off before they finally could see what was happening, and I am sure that other friends commuting to Telluride were in the same dangerous situation. They vowed that next time, since they have been given the opportunity, they will turn around and go back home! Our so-called late winter is catching up! There are piles and piles of snow in Town.

The Rico Volunteer Fire Department/Search and Rescue recently held a C.P.R. class. Those who completed the course were Kaitlin Nunley, Kim Jones and Mike Davis. Justin Sinclair was the instructor. We in Rico appreciate the time these firemen and women take to keep our fire department in good order and well-prepared for whatever emergency that may occur.

The “young set” of Rico practiced for their end-of-the-year ice skating performance which was on Wednesday, March 7 in Telluride. Their parents braved the weather once a week, all winter long to get their children over there for the lessons. Children need more than reading, writing and arithmetic to receive a well-rounded education. We appreciate the time it takes for these families to try to give their kids something like the ice skating and ski lessons to make well-rounded and happy citizens of them when they venture out into this big world.

We will report on the performance next week.

Friends in Rico are mourning the loss of their friend Nate Soules who perished in an avalanche in the backcountry near Telluride a few days ago. He was about 41 years of age. Our sincere condolences to his lovely wife, Hillary, and their son Ben.

Jenny Nunley and T.J. Johnston traveled to Prescott, Ariz. recently to visit Dr. Mick and Kim McClain of Rico and Prescott. Dr. Mick suffered a brain aneurysm ten months ago. The McClains have friends here in Rico who might like to know that Mick is improving slowly, of course, out of his coma, and he and Kim will return to Rico in June one way or another while he is recuperating.



Marlene Hazen has lived in Rico for two decades. An active member of the community, she participates in organizations such as the Rico Women’s Club and Rico Historical Society.