La Veta – Cuchara Valley Blog

We are  happy to report that our friends at La Veta Inn just announced that Francisco’s Southwest Grille will be open during the winter months.   Following a brief holiday break, the Grille will be opening  Thurs./Fri./Sat.  beginning January 7.   Check it out.  http://www.lavetainn.com/

An interesting glitch in the current Estate Tax provisions.  It expires this week.  The House passed a proposal but in the heat of the Health Care debates and the Holidays, the Senate has not acted.  Read the details here at Realty Times link.  http://bit.ly/890eFb

Scott Medsker has produced a new La Veta video.  His proposed path to win/win situations otherwise pitting commerce and development against Town Hall.  A  kind of strategic plan to achieve goals and objectives.  See it on YouTube by clicking  http://bit.ly/8gRkpY

Let us know what you think.

Congress took a major step last week toward eliminating what has been a painful thorn in the side of home sellers, Realtors, home builders, mortgage brokers and appraisers for months. As part of its financial and mortgage industry reform bill, the House voted to terminate the controversial Home Valuation Code of Conduct (HVCC) once a new Consumer Financial Protection Agency begins operations.

On the day the new rules are adopted, Fannie and Freddie will be prohibited from using their much-maligned home valuation code. Fannie’s and Freddie’s rules have been criticized for producing lowball, inaccurate valuations; cutting appraisers’ fees to the point where the most experienced professionals refuse to accept low-pay assignments; plus encouraging the use of inexperienced appraisers unfamiliar with local markets – and a long list of other problems.

The Blue Rooster Saloon (formerly the Pub) has today announced that it will be closing its doors January 1.  Evidently the somewhat slow summer business did not provide for the funds needed to get them thru another long and slower winter season.

Come to La Veta, Colorado for a holiday get away and enjoy a concert by Ricky Tims and a talented ensemble of musicians. The first of six concerts are beginning tonight, December 17-19, 2009 at 5:00pm and 7:30pm each day. Tickets are $20 – call 719-742-3755 for tickets. Ride the Rio Grande Scenic Railroad and top of your visit by staying in one of La Veta’s charming bed and breakfasts.  www.christmasinasmalltown.com

Pattersons have announced an agreement with John Liese from Highlands Ranch to be the new Operator/Manager of the La Veta Gym.  John has a Master’s Degree in Health Education and formerly taught Physical Ed. and coached track and cross country.  Open House is being planned for January 2.

I often write about mortgage loan interest and regularly post current rates. This week, a writer for Business Week has really put in right in our face.  See his perspective at  http://www.businessweek.com/lifestyle/content/dec2009/bw2009127_753974.htm

Board of County Commissioners have today voted to DENY the application for the Silver Mountain Wind Farm.  Many, many people were in opposition to the Wind Farm and worked diligently to get it stopped.  Most recognized the private property rights of owners, but drew the line at the many negative impacts that would effect everyone, outside of and well beyond the ranch owner’s deeded fenced boundaries. 

The eastern plains of the County seemed to be a more appropiate location for these 400 ft. turbines rather than in the very midst of our scenic corridor in view of tourism traffic and numerous home developments.  The application seemed flawed from the outset and was not in compliance with the current County Land Use Guide.

Huerfano County Board of Commissioners will meet tomorrow, Dec.9 at 10:00 for the final vote to approve or reject the proposed Silver Mountain Wind Farm Project.  Planning & Zoning has recommended a denial of the Application, but Commissioners will have the final say.  A large crowd is expected (and encouraged) to attend.