DeGette to appear at commissioner's meeting

U.S. Rep. Diana DeGette, D-Denver, will be at the Garfield County commissioners meeting today to talk with the Board of County Commissioners about wilderness.

Specifically, DeGette plans to discuss a proposed wilderness bill that includes approximately 1,600 acres of land within Garfield County.

That bill, H.R. 4289, was introduced by DeGette as the Colorado Wilderness Act of 2009 and would protect 34 areas around the state, or roughly 850,000 acres, with wilderness designation. It is not part of the Hidden Gems proposed wilderness.

DeGette is scheduled to appear in the commissioners' chambers, 108 Eighth St. in Glenwood Springs, at approximately 10 a.m.

Albright signing book at Basalt art gallery

Former U.S. Secretary of State Madeleine Albright will sign her latest book, “Read My Pins: Stories from a Diplomat's Jewel Box,” from 5-7 p.m. Tuesday at the Ann Korologos Gallery in Basalt.

Albright made a habit of wearing decorative pins on her clothing to convey a message while serving as a U.S. diplomat. When she was U.S. Ambassador to the United Nations, she was labeled “an unparalleled serpent” by a spokesman for former Iraqi leader Saddam Hussein. A short time later, when contemplating what to wear for a meeting with Iraqi officials, Albright chose a snake pin. Thus a tradition was born.

She has 200 pieces, from costume jewelry to designer creations and family heirlooms.

In addition to signing copies of her book, she will share some of her experiences at the event. Seating is limited, so those wishing to attend should arrive early.

Ann Korologos Gallery is located at 211 Midland Ave. in Basalt.