I have known Joe Colgan since shortly after he came to Durango and to Fort Lewis College from Alamosa andAdams State. During all of that time, I know of nothing negative that I can say about him.

On the other hand, the list of positives is far longer than I could present in the brief space so graciously allotted to me in this letter to the HERALD. Suffice it to say that I hold Joe in the highest regard.

He is husband, father and grandfather. He is still remembered and valued as a splendid teacher, counselor and friend by a host of students and by his colleagues, both from the college and from his chosen profession as a Certified Public Accountant.

He is a splendid example of all that is 'RIGHT' with this community, this county, this state, this region and with the United States of America.

I am honored to call him a friend and I was overjoyed when he was elected by a substantial margin during his first run for the Durango City Council. I am sure that his lovely wife, Mary, will be more than happy to see more of him as he steps away from his duties as Mayor of Durango and as councilman.

I offer my sincere best wishes to Joe, to Mary and to their extended family. My thanks go out to Joe for his years of service and for putting up with me as friend, colleague and as a "customer" for his CPA services for so many years.

Sincerely,

Hal Mansfield, 1138 County Road 302, Durango, CO

81303-8050

Phone: 970.259.1324