Editor:
We have been speaking in low voices around the town of Dolores, about our friend, our watchman, the Black Goat. He has been absent, silent from the rocks above our small town for a while. Some say December, others January, for me I know it has just been too long. With a sinking heart, I am going to call it official. The Black Goat of Dolores is no more.
This mystical neighbor has been overlooking our town for, some say, as long as 15 years.
Most of the Dolores district firemen will tell you he was wise beyond his breed and faithful in his duty to monitor the comings and goings of our town.
In the spring, he would sneak down to the hill for a nibble of some early greens along the roadway, and in the heat of summer, he would be lounging in the cool shade of the sandstone overhangs.
We just felt it was necessary to put a notice in, to show a little respect for this special member of our community, and to let him know we miss him.
Submitted on behalf of all the good folks of Dolores and beyond who scanned the rocks for his silhouette. Goodbye, good friend, and safe journey.
Jen Stark
Dolores