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Habitat for Humanity celebrates 10 years

Carolyn Pope
Carolyn Pope/Vail DailyBrad Quayle, Jack Kemp, Tom Healy, Karin Weber and Allison Krausen.
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EAGLE – Last weekend, Habitat for Humanity of Eagle and Lake Counties celebrated their 10th anniversary in the only way they know. By giving back.They opened their arms to anyone who would show up, and let them have fun and learn more about what Habitat does. The celebration was for a decade of “Communities Building Communities” and two other “Big Tens”: The construction of their 10th home and a whopping 10,000 volunteers who have helped since 1995.Several families who have had homes built by Habitat for Humanity of Eagle and Lake Counties were present at the event at Eagle Valley Elementary School. Brightwater Club, a new development in Gypsum, sponsored the event.”I never thought this would be a reality,” said Valentina Ramos, who relaxed in the shade with two of her three daughters, Gabby and Isabel.

Gabby agreed.”We’ve always wanted a house; all the years we’ve lived here, it’s paying off.”Kids tackled the climbing wall and assembled wooden racing cars with helpers from The Home Depot. Little Hercules kept the music going, and even the Battle Mountain High School Dance Team kicked up their heels for the cause.Salsas, Vendettas, the Golden Oven and the Ice Cream Lady provided refreshments.

Mylissa Eckdahl is in a wheelchair after a car accident in 2001. Having a home that she can negotiate is essential, especially while raising 13- and 11-year-old daughters as a single parent. Building on her home will commence in the near future.”Having this home means I can stay in the valley,” Eckdahl said. “I can stay in the most wonderful place to live and raise my daughters. To have a place of my own is an incredible such a feeling of independence.”==========================================



To learn moreFor more information on Habitat for Humanity, call 748-6718 or visit its Web site at http://www.habitateaglelake.org.On the social radarDon’t know how to maintain your appetite when on the road? Joe Weinstein is presenting a seminar on nutrition for travelers on Aug. 22 at the Allegria Spa in the Park Hyatt Beaver Creek. “Eating on the Road” will help you learn how to handle nutritional detours, roadblocks and potholes. There is no charge for the seminar, but registration is required. Call Lauren Brand at 748-7500 for more information.Vail Colorado


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