as Karen Rice

I was living in New York City in 1982 and my boyfriend had the idea to move to Telluride, Colorado. I had never been to Colorado, and I loved New York, so I was reluctant to leave the city. A few months later though, I was hitch-hiking with Mark in an old white Buick on my way to Telluride. I will never forget the moment my eyes first beheld this magnificent valley. The beauty was extraordinary.

In 1984 Mark and I were married, but he died suddenly in 1987. It was a difficult time for me. Fortunately, my friends took very good care of me. The greatest gift Telluride has given me has been my friendships.

When I was first asked to be a part of the Avalanche production I was in the middle of a political campaign. I was running for re-election as the Mayor of Telluride. I wasn't certain I'd have the time. The concept of a soap opera over the Internet intrigued me, so I asked a few questions. The more I learned about Avalanche, the more it fascinated me. I decided I had to participate in the production. I have a small role, but I've had a great time being a part of the project. The cast, the crew, and the production staff have been wonderful.

Happily, I can say I was successfully re-elected as the Mayor of Telluride and I look forward to working for my community for another three years. I also work for Deeter & Associates, a marketing and communications company in Doylestown, PA. Thanks to computers there are many things we can pursue in Telluride today, that we could not have done a few years ago.

It's been a thrill seeing myself on the Internet. I've been telling my family and friends about it and everyone is clicking onto Avalanche. They're getting a kick out of the program. It's been interesting being an Internet soap opera star. I hope I'll be working in more episodes. See you soon.