These stories appear elsewhere in this issue, but you can shortcut to them here.

In "A Southwest Colorado Investment," author and power engineer James Burke talks about how we can improve energy efficiency, utilize renewable resources for sustainability and lower our power bills while creating more jobs.

Two powerful stories about how genetic modification (GMO) and government control are poisioning our food system are a major wakeup call and have already invited strong, supportive commentary.

Fantastic photographers Jim and Eileen Baumgardt, of Image Counts in Durango, are passionate about preserving our heritage through their photography. "Looking around at how quickly the natural landscape is vanishing had a profound effect on why we are anxious to record nature while it still exists in its present form," they tell us.

"Painted Ladies, Grand Old Gals of the Victorian Era," by Barbara Torke, with lovely images from several photographers, talks about historical homes, lovingly preserved and imminently photographable!

In our section on Native American History, photographer Jim Baumgardt illustrates photographic journey of the region's ancestral ruins as discussed by author Kathryn R. Burke. Links to many parks and ancestral sites are included with the story. The extensive section on the Ute "People of the Shining Mountains" incorporates several well-researched articles (presently being used by the Ute Mountain Ute on their web site) tell the story of the native peoples of SW Colorado.

Railroad Engineer Bill Colley, profiled by Kathryn Burke and affectionatly known as the "Hollywood Hogger" to his co-workers at the Durango and Silverton Narrow Gauge Railroad, is a railroad man with a past. Check out his story to see his very real connection to Walt Disney!

Slidewhow of images from featured articles.

Western Colorado High Country includes an image slide show of the region in all seasons and interests, and makes some great suggestons about where to go and what to see. This page will also take you to stories about regional wildlife and great road trips.

Finally, if you try out even half the things we tell you about here, and if your passion about sustainability and heritage preservation has worn you out—try one of the area's natural hot springs. We've profiled a few, but there are many more. Maybe you've found one you'd like to share with us!

........Editor