OPRAH WINFREY VISITS THE SPRINGS RESORT-
June 1, 2006. Resort featured on Oprah's show.

My Experience with Oprah.....

Written by Maria Gallegos, Springs Resort Employee, and Native Pagosian
 

In April 2005, I wrote Oprah Winfrey in response to a topic on her website, "Why Oprah should visit your town". Because I am a big fan of hers and proud of where I live, it was easy to come up with many reasons why she should visit Pagosa Springs. In the letter I wrote to Oprah I said that the hot springs were the main reason to visit Pagosa as well as our beautiful town and it's friendly people that live here- and of course, because I would LOVE to meet her.

Although months went by with no response, I did not forget the e-mail that I sent. On June 1, 2006 I was pleasantly surprised when Oprah and her best friend Gayle walked through the front door of The Springs Resort Lobby with her camera crew filming every step she took. Oprah walked in and asked, "Is Maria here?", and I almost fainted! MY DREAM CAME TRUE! As they sat at the concierge desk we talked about the growth Pagosa has experienced and the e-mail that I sent her. I asked her if she wanted to take a walk down the pools and she kindly accepted. I got up from my desk and gave both Oprah and Gail huge hugs!

Oprah took my hand and we walked toward the bathhouse. On the way, Gail asked about the smell that was so strong around our town. I told them that it is sulfur, which is the highest content of minerals we have in our natural spring water. I also explained the benefits of the healing waters. We walked through our beautiful bathhouse and down the steps to our fishpond. Oprah asked what tub they could put their feet in. I lead them across our underwater bridge to the "Cliffs tub". We got knee deep in the tub and I answered nervously, but happily, the questions from both Oprah and Gail about our Healing Waters. Because the water temperature was 110 degrees at that time, we only stayed in for about 4 minutes.

As Oprah was leaving she asked for a good place to eat lunch. I sent her and her crew to one of my favorites in town. She patiently posed for pictures for my guests and tourists at the Resort with me proudly at her side; arm and arm. We then walked from the bathhouse and to her car where we made plans for my mother to meet her at the restaurant I was recommending. My mom and I showed up at Oprah and Gail's table where they invited us to sit down and talk some more until their lunch came; at which time I decided to leave and let her eat her meal!

All I can say is, I will NEVER forget this!! DREAMS REALLY DO COME TRUE!! I am glad she got to see a piece of heaven that I am so fortunate to see every day!

Maria Gallegos