Ear to the ground:

“Did you notice in the ‘Brady Bunch’ they said ‘groovy’ a lot?”
“Yeah, that’s because it was the ’70s.”
– Local youngsters remarking on a recent fascinating foray into the TV time capsule
 

Keep the change

Visitors to downtown Durango will be getting an early Christmas gift this year: a reprieve from the dread that comes with a little orange envelope neatly tucked under their windshield wipers.

From Sat., Dec. 14 - Sun., Dec. 29 all downtown metered parking will be free.

“This is a special holiday gift for our Downtown merchants, galleries and restaurants,” said Tim Walsworth, executive director of the Durango Business Improvement District.

But it’s not all because the parking Grinch’s heart grew by three sizes. The furlough from the jingling bells of loose change is also related to the City’s replacement of its aging parking meter fleet with new “high-tech” meters. In addition to being fully functional, the new meters will also take a quantum leap in the digital age by taking credit cards.

Nevertheless, the timing was optimal for the last-minute holiday shopping frenzy. “We appreciate the City of Durango coordinating their meter replacement project in conjunction with the high shopping season. We hope not having to plug the meters will enable locals and visitors alike to stay and enjoy Downtown longer,” said Walsworth.

However, lest you think free meters equates to a parking free-for-all, the Grinch will still be out in full force looking for violators. The City reminds everyone that parking regulations will be enforced in red and yellow zones, as well as spaces identified for handicap access. Parking in municipal lots will be unaffected with the special program, though parking is always free in these lots on weekends and weekdays after 5 p.m.

Ride on

With Lift 8 scheduled to open this Saturday, there’s no better time to strap on the old boards and head up to Purg. And, as luck would have it, this Sun., Dec. 15, is the first Local’s Day of the season with proceeds from lift tickets going to four worthy local nonprofits. In a shift from years past and a nod to leveling the whims of the powder gods, DMR is now dividing funds from all four Locals Days equally among four groups. This year’s lucky recipients are Medicine Horse Center, Sexual Assault Services Organization, Big Brothers Big Sisters of Southwest Colorado and Annie’s Orphans.

Tickets are $40 for adults; $32 for young adults and seniors; and $25 for kids and “super seniors.” To get a hold of this super deal, simply clip the Locals Day coupon on p. 19, visit DMR on Facebook or print one out at www.durangomountainresort.com/ benefitdays/

The dates for upcoming Locals Days are: Jan. 12; Feb. 9; and March  2 – all Sundays.