Ear to the ground

“I’m not into awards shows, but my husband is. So I always watch them vicariously.”

– A local women taking part in Monday-morning Golden Globes gossip

The next frame

After more than 100 cover shots and thousands of clicks of the shutter, Staff Photographer David Halterman is moving on after this issue of the Durango Telegraph. The man who has provided this weekly paper with much of its color and flavor for the last two years is taking a little rest time.

David took over photography duties at theTelegraph in February 2007. From his first spread documenting the “deconstruction” of the old Mercy Medical Center to this week’s issue, he was responsible for adding a unique visual element to this funky publication. Regular readers will know that there is a long list of Halterman’s Greatest Hits. Among our favorites are his spread on bringing a stolen cruiser (his own) back home, a layout detailing the construction of a trophy home, and the now-infamous John McCain photos, cheered and jeered around La Plata County.

David’s camera also captured relevant news, from the tragic fire in the 700 block of Main to Durango’s reaction to the War in Iraq. And he showed us what it means to have a good time in the midst of it all, whether it was in at a Halloween bash or partying at the Tour de Fat. Thanks for a good ride, David.

The lens now passes to Stephen Eginoire. For a glimpse at the future of the Durango Telegraph, check out www.nrphotography.com.

The Snowdown sweepstakes

With Snowdown just two weeks away, Durangoans have an opportunity to follow their folly this Saturday. Nearly 580 tickets to the Snowdown Follies – the annual lampoon of Durango culture – will go on sale Jan. 17.

Becoming a Follies audience member does require perseverance and dedication. At 6 a.m. on the day of sales, KIQX, KRSJ and KIUP radio stations will announce several secret locations. Snowdown groupies must rush to these locations and pick up a number for their place in line to purchase tickets. Ticket sales begin at 6:30 a.m. at the Elks Lodge entrance on Ninth Street, but only for those who’ve obtained their numbers. Each lucky number holder is limited to four tickets.

The Follies will run two shows on Friday and two shows on Saturday, Jan. 30-31, at the Henry Strater Theater and the Durango Arts Center. For more on Snowdown in Da Nile, visit www.snowdown.org.