Gunnison Country Times, December 7, 2023

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Home prices hit new highs in 2023 Expensive is the new normal, realtors say Bella Biondini Times Editor

THE MAIN EVENT: Gunnison Middle School students Marina Cerda, McKenzie Singer, Dakota Bennett and Geneva Estrada watch Santa Claus light the giant Christmas tree on Friday, Dec. 1 at the annual Night of Lights celebration. For more, see A13. (Photo by Abby Harrison)

INSIDE

TODAY

NEWS: GHS students study wildfire solutions, A8

COMMUNITY: Hartman Castle makeover plan, B1

SPORTS: Cowboy grapplers start strong, B6

OPINION A4 CLASSIFIEDS A15-A18 SPORTS B6 ONLINE GUNNISONTIMES.COM

Housing A6

Lawsuit spurs Dilly Deli to carry county to update on Firebrand’s land use rules tradition Barriers removed for mobile and manufactured homes Abby Harrison Times Staff Writer

OBITUARIES A2

It’s been almost three years since the pandemic rattled the Gunnison Valley’s real estate market. Although the bidding

Following a court order, Gunnison County will update its Land Use Resolution (LUR) — a document that governs h ow a n d w h e re d e v e l o p ment takes place in Gunnison County. Combined, the updates change who has final say in the land use appeals process all over the county and also “clean

up” language in the LUR while keeping it compliant with state law, said County Attorney Matt Hoyt.

Following a court case out of Crested Butte South that was appealed all the way to the state level, a Colorado Court of Appeals judge ruled that the Gunnison County Board of Adjustments, rather than the Board of County Commissioners (BOCC), must be the ultimate appellate body for land use decisions.

Commissioners will dissolve the current board and reconstitute it of the three county commissioners and two at-large members.

While crafting amendments in the LUR, staff took the

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LUR A3

Local couple will open sandwich shop in 2024 Abby Harrison Times Staff Writer Bella Biondini Times Editor

Enjoying a morning shift meal was steadfast for Heidi Magnus.

Before the rush of Firebrand customers flooded the small sandwich shop on Main Street each day, she sat down in the front and employee Jefe Branham would bring her a warm meal.

It was hard to remember what

each meal actually was, Magnus said, but all that mattered was that it was Jefe serving it — flavorful, nourishing and, for Magnus, gluten-free.

In October, long-time community deli Firebrand closed after nearly 30 years of business. Now, the steady tradition of nourishing neighbors will persist because Jefe, and wife Rachel Branham plan to open a sandwich shop, named “The Dilly Deli,” in the former Firebrand space. The Dilly Deli will offer classic deli food that relies on local ingredients and contributes to local food security, Rachel said. The couple has signed a lease set to start on the first of the year, and they hope to open the deli in the spring of Deli A6

A2 • NEWS • Thursday, December 7, 2023

QUOTE

of the week

Gunnison Country Times

OBITUARIES Timothy William Lehmann

“The castle is a monument to the past.

It is a monument to the fortitude of the Gunnison Country.”

— Duane Vandenbusche, Local historian

See story on B1

BRIEFS GMUG seeks comments on Farris Creek Road Farris Creek Road, or Forest Service Road #736, is getting a revised travel management system. Currently, the 3.7-mile road right outside of Crested Butte is open to all vehicles up to the point where the motorized single-track trail, Farris Creek Trail #409, begins. The Grand Mesa, Uncompahgre and Gunnison National Forests’ Gunnison Ranger District plans to keep Farris Creek Road open to all vehicles for the first 1.7 miles from County Road #738.

The remaining 2 miles of the trail would be re-designated as a motorized trail that only vehicles 50 inches or less in width, such as UT Vs or AT Vs, can access.

The trail would remain open for smaller ATVs and UTVs, motorcycles, bicycles, horseback riding and pedestrians.

The two campsites located in the proposed redesignation would not be accessible with a full-size vehicle after the redesignation. “ The Gunnison Ranger District has seen a significant increase in recreational use over the past decade, leading to a surge in the usage of forest roads, resulting in significant damage to the Farris Creek wetland area," said Gunnison District Ranger Dayle Funka.

Comments will be accepted until Dec. 30, 2023.

ICELab’s second annual funding summit The ICELab’s newest addition to its extensive collection of entrepreneurial programs is coming up on its second year this winter.

The Outdoor Industry Funding Summit connects outdoor industry startups with investors who have previously invested in the outdoor industry. Start-ups are invited to network with other companies and pitch to investors in Crested Butte. Attendees will have the opportunity to meet one-onone with investors and ski at Crested Butte Mountain Resort.

Applications are open until Dec. 12, 2023.

Timothy William Lehmann was born on Nov. 21, 1969 to Orville Ralph Lehmann and Lenora Jeanne Lehmann in Grand Junction, Colorado. Tim attended Central High School and graduated with the class of 1988, where he played football and baseball. He grew up surrounded by a large family, including his three brothers, Tyler, Mike and Todd. He spent his time playing baseball, football, hunting and helping on his grandpa and uncle’s ranches. Tim went on to attend Mesa State College, where he signed a football scholarship.

He was a volunteer with Mesa County Search and Rescue through college. In college, he met his future wife, Michelle Sammons. After Michelle introduced him to her family ranch, Tim decided that not only was she the one, but this was where he wanted to start a family.

On May 22, 1993, Tim was lucky enough to marry his best friend. On Jul. 31, 1995, Tim and Michelle welcomed their son, Andrew “Wyatt” Lehmann.

Tim and Michelle moved to the ranch shortly after, where Tim worked alongside his father-inlaw, Glen Sammons. On Jun. 17, 1999, Tim and Michelle welcomed their daughter, Jessica Lehmann, who was the light of his life. He was very fortunate to bring his children to work with him everyday, teaching them valuable life lessons and handing down a passion for agriculture unlike any other.

Tim began his long journey in politics at the local level, serv-

ing on the board of directors for Gunnison County Stockgrowers from 1997-2007. After his term as president, Tim ascended to join the board of the Colorado Cattlemen’s Association, where he spent over 15 years fighting for the many policies that influence the agriculture industry. Tim was also a large leader through the local 4-H program, holding a position on the junior livestock committee for 17 years.

In 2021, Tim started his long journey battling cancer, later being declared in remission in the summer of 2023.

Even though he was fighting for his life during this time, he remained optimistic and found the strength to saddle up as often as he could. During his time in remission, Tim clung to the word of God and grew his relationship with the Lord and his family. Tim was a passionate rancher, loving husband and father, and devoted friend. On Nov. 15, 2023, Tim unexpectedly went home to the Lord, survived by his wife, two children, three brothers, mother and countless friends who loved him. He is preceded in death by his father. His legacy lives on through his family and the hearts he touched.

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Steven C. Schechter, 72, passed away at home on Dec. 4 surrounded by family. Steve was born in Lawrence, Kansas, the first child of Dale L. and Olga E. Schechter. He grew up in Midland, Michigan, graduating from Midland High School in 1969. He attended Tarkio College in Missouri, Michigan State University and graduated from the University of Iowa.

He met his future wife of 49 years, Lyda Hardy, in high school chemistry class. Married in 1974, they moved to the Quad City, Illinois/Iowa area before relocating to Gunnison in 1977. They have two sons, Dale Hardy-Schechter of Gunnison and Leadville and Nathan Hardy-Schechter of Fort Collins, Colorado.

Steve worked for the Fullmer family at the hardware store and for Elmer Rudeen in construction before becoming a contractor on his own. He owned and operated Heron Construction and Mountain Solar Design.

His focus was always on quality construction and energy efficiency. He built his family a solar envelope house and later a straw bale house. Many houses that he designed and constructed dot the Gunnison Valley.

Steve had a very deep concern for the environment, which led him to work locally on water, energy, food and housing. He was one of very few people who were ever elected to serve on the board of the Upper Gunnison River Water Conservancy District.

Board members were routinely

appointed, but he petitioned for an election and ran for the seat. He was also elected to the board of the Gunnison County Electric Association. He served as a volunteer board member for High Country Conservation Advocates, was board chair for Habitat for Humanity of the Gunnison Valley and was treasurer for the Gunnison Farmers Market.

He ra i s e d h u n d re d s o f pounds of produce in his front yard garden that was given to Mountain Roots Food Project and available to people in need in the valley. Steve was honored by the Gunnison Valley Climate Crisis Coalition in 2022 with the Steve Schechter Climate Activist Award.

An outdoor recreation enthusiast, Steve introduced many of his nieces and nephews to mountain biking, fishing, backpacking, skating and skiing — pursuits that they and his children continue to enjoy. He was an excellent cook. Many people got to enjoy his homemade noodles with chicken served over mashed potatoes that he had grown. As an electric car enthusiast, Steve took several all-electric trips around the country, using only charging stations to fuel his Kia EV6.

The Hardy-Schechter family wishes to thank friends, neighbors and family for their visits, meals, cards, kind words and concern during his illness.

Spending time with others was very special to him, and he met many people as they walked by his garden. An open house to remember Steve will be held on Dec. 10 from 1-4 p.m. at the Fred Field Western Heritage Center. In lieu of other tributes, please consider a donation to Habitat for Humanity of the Gunnison Valley or Mountain Roots Food Project.

ABSOLUTELY STUNNING 2800sf home at the end of the Ohio Creek valley sits on 40 acres with Carbon Creek running through the acreage.

Custom home & garage offer in-floor heat, 3 bdrm/3 bath, south facing windows with incredible views and a 4 car garage with work space & a walk-in cooler. 3750 County Road 737; $2,500,000.

Honest, Ethical, Professional

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Steven C. Schechter

MAKE AN OFFER Mountain home with loft nestled in the trees with Gold Creek in the back yard on over 3 acres. Just 3.5 miles from Ohio City, 1 bdrm/1 bath, bordered by national forest, built in 1994 with well & septic. 1,008 square feet with generator and shed too. 3491 County Road 771; $635,000.

IMMACULATE CONDITION

Move-in ready one level, 3 bdrm/2 bath, over 1,600sf home has been fully remodeled in 2017 & features a large backyard with two car detached garage. 403 S. 14th St.; $649,000.

NEW LISTING 40 acre historic parcel is the town site of Sherrod and part of the Sherrod Loop on the Alpine Tunnel Loop past Pitkin, just before Hancock Pass. Sherrod was known for its rich silver lodes in the surrounding mountains. Great 4x4 country.

7800 Forest Service Road 839; $215,000.

IN-TOWN HOME 2 bdrm/2 bath log sided home in town with large windows for passive solar, two inviting patios, metal roof, sprinkler system & detached 2 car garage with separate workshop & bunkroom. Includes RMU lots that could be subdivided and built out.

205 N. 11th St.; $749,000.

1.5 ACRE PARCELS are situated just a few miles from the Iola Boat Dock at the beautiful Blue Mesa Reservoir.

There are 8 sites offered that are each 1.5 acres with no covenants or HOA. Affordable land options just 15 minutes from Gunnison. Spring Drive; $60,000.

COMFORTABLE & COZY 1 bdrm/1 bath home in Pitkin sits on 4 lots & offers willows for privacy & an aspen forest out front. Two woodsheds & outbuilding at this quiet & peaceful end of the road location.

10 State Street; $355,000.

WATERFRONT BUILDING SITE to build your new home! Two lots totaling 1.78 acres. Great opportunity to own on the Gunnison River, hidden between the trees & close to the White Water Park. Level building site with mature trees and still close to downtown conveniences.

350 Rio Vista Road; $400,000.

R-3 LOTS Purchase R-3 lots & finish the West End Townhomes for a spec option, rental investment or employee housing. City approved site plans allow for two more duplex units. Water & sewer taps are already installed. Centrally located near the schools & RTA bus stop. 817 W. Denver Ave.; $297,000.

40 ACRE PARCEL close to the city limits of Gunnison.

Features include two permitted commercial wells, southern exposure making for possible solar arrays and green energy with endless development possibilities.

Crest View Drive; $3,000,000.

HOME ON 50 ACRES in Ohio City features an excellent mixture of wildlife, nearby trails, aspen, pines & 300 feet of Gold Creek frontage. 3 bdrm/2 bath house, huge attached garage, large detached barn, touched

by Forest Service lands. 5498 County Road 771; $2,500,000.

INVESTMENT OPPORTUNITY 3 homes total in town where each home is 2 bdrm/1 bath & tenants pay utilities. Located near the airport and fairgrounds. 314 S. 12th St; $950,000.

People’s Choice Award for Best Realtor 2021 & 2022

View listings at: www.clarkeagency.net

Thursday, December 7, 2023 • NEWS • A3

Gunnison Country Times

LUR from A1 chance to adjust a few other parts meant to make the building process easier for people interested in mobile and manufactured homes. As mobile home parks, like Frontier Land and Three Rivers Resort, face an increasingly uncertain future, relaxing certain land use rules might make it easier for local workers to stay in the Gunnison Valley.

New decision-makers In 2019, developer South Butte LLC wanted to build two detached duplexes on a lot in Crested Butte South, and requested a “variance” to set the buildings back farther and put in a shared driveway.

Gunnison County and the Crested Butte South Property O w ners’ Association later approved the plans.

Neighbors Andrew and Susan Tyzzer, who would share that driveway, sued the county, the POA and South Butte LLC in 2021 claiming that the plans were in violation of existing LUR rules.

The Tyzzer’s appealed the move all the way up to District Court, arguing, among several things, that the BOCC cannot be the final decision-making body.

The state Court of Appeals affirmed the Tyzzer’s position and ordered the county to change the rules.

The decision only pertained to the appeals process, not the Tyzzer’s claim that the project violated the LUR. The new board of adjustments will still have to rule on that decision.

Additionally, the court order only pertains to this specific appeal in Crested Butte South, but the county interpreted the logic of the decision more widely to apply to all land use decisions in the county.

“It is a logical extension of the court's order [and] even though we're not necessarily under an order to go that far, we have done that nonetheless,” Hoyt told the Times.

The core of the issue is how appeals under the LUR are to be handled, Hoyt said at a regular commissioners meeting on Nov. 7. Moving forward, the Board of Adjustments will act as the final decision-maker

for all appeals processes, rather than the BOCC. Per state statute, the board is appointed by county commissioners. It is currently composed of four at-large members: Jeff Wilkinson, Les White, Bill Barvitski and Andy Tocke.

Planning staff recommended that commissioners dissolve the Board of Adjustments and rebuild it with the three county commissioners and two at-large members appointed by commissioners, each with one-year terms. By state statute, commissioners are allowed to serve as the entire board of adjustment.

The at-large members will bring technical and relevant experience to the process, and the presence of the three county commissioners is meant to ensure that voters’ interests remain accounted for in land use decisions, Hoyt said.

“This new iteration of the board of adjustments is going to be the final arbiter on some of these land use and building code decisions and some very important things that can determine the future character of our community,” said Commissioner Laura Puckett Daniels.

The new language also limits the right of appeal to only those people “aggrieved” by the decision. This change, not included in the court order, is meant to streamline the appeals process by only allowing affected individuals to make their case. The current language leaves room for “frivolous appeals,” and could complicate the process, Hoyt said.

“Anyone who can establish that they are truly harmed by or affected by a land use decision would still be able to appeal a decision,” he said.

A break for mobile homes Planning staff also proposed an update to the mobile and manufactured home section of the LUR. In 2022, a graduate student at Colorado University Denver College of Architecture and Planning produced a report on the county’s existing supply of mobile and manufactured homes. Community Development staff used that report to audit the county’s rules around those types of homes.

“This is one of those equity issues that we found in our

code that we wanted to address that unnecessarily adds burden for attainable housing,” said Assistant County Manager for Community and Economic Development Cathie Pagano.

Currently, mobile home proposals must follow a number of unique rules, like an extra level of review for homes on land next to a subdivision and a land use change permit for homes proposed on a parcel not in a mobile home park. The rules also state that more than one mobile home constitutes a community and individual mobile homes must “match the character” of the surrounding neighborhood, with details like similar siding and roofing.

Staff proposed that all these provisions be eliminated for the sake of equity and allowing various types of homes in the community.

“I think deleting [that language] so that we're creating more opportunities for housing and more accessibility is really important,” Puckett Daniels said. “Manufactured housing has changed a lot. There are lots of high quality manufactured homes that are not exactly what was traditionally contemplated in the LUR.” Pagano added that staff would like to remove Ohio City, Somerset and Almont from a clause that identifies those cities as “population centers,” a language that makes it easier for new residences to pop up around them. Currently, contractors building next to sites that are considered “existing population centers” have to meet less stringent criteria for the impact of the building on the surrounding land. With the amendment, those standards increase.

The county’s community development director, currently Pagano, can initiate amendments to the LUR, but those suggestions must be reviewed by the Gunnison County Planning Commission before final consideration by the BOCC. A public hearing is scheduled for Dec. 19.

(Abby Harrison can be contacted at 970.641.1414 or abby@ gunnisontimes.com.)

LOOK AND LEARN: What drug paraphernalia looks like and what are the effects of marijuana, stimulants, methamphetamine, and opioids with a local dispensary manager and Sam Bourdon from the Colorado Department of Public Health and Environment.

• DEC. 11 - 12-2 FRED FIELD CENTER • DEC. 11 - 4-6 MALARDI THEATRE CRESTED BUTTE • DEC. 12 - 5:30-7:30 FRED FIELD CENTER ADULTS ONLY FOOD WILL BE PROVIDED!

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THURSDAY, DECEMBER 7, 2023

ALANWARTESMEDIA

LETTERS

OPINION

970.641.1414

Enjoy winter and reflect

© 2023 Gunnison

Editor: Wendy Videlock's "13 Poems to Winter" in last week's Times prompts us to remind everyone of the Gunnison Valley Audio Journal.

In 2020, we were concocting ideas that would help people weather that terrible year, and one idea was a podcast series of writings about winter by local residents. Its three free 30-minute episodes include delightful (and sometimes crazy) stories about the “old days” of skiing here, growing up on skis in Jacks Cabin, haikus, limericks by kids and more. They represent a wonderful, free listen as you're walking, exercising, driving or cross-country skiing this winter, and we encourage you to help yourself.

Simply Google "spotify Gunnison Valley Audio Journal," and scroll down to the last three podcasts on the list.

Enjoy winter while enjoying the reflections of your neighbors.

Country Times

Publisher/Owner Alan Wartes publisher@gunnisontimes.com Office Manager Bonnie Gollhofer bonnie@gunnisontimes.com Editor Bella Biondini bella@gunnisontimes.com Staff Writer Abby Harrison abby@gunnisontimes.com Sports Editor Alex McCrindle alex@gunnisontimes.com Advertising Manager Steve Nunn steve@gunnisontimes.com Advertising Assistant Issa Forrest issa@gunnisontimes.com Production Manager Stefan Scott Stefan@gunnisontimes.com

THE GUNNISON COUNTRY TIMES (ISSN 0892-1113) is published weekly

by Alan Wartes Media LLC., 218 N. Wisconsin St., Gunnison, Colorado 81230. Periodical postage paid at Gunnison, Colorado. POSTMASTER: Send address changes to: The Gunnison Country Times, 218 N. Wisconsin, Gunnison, CO 81230-0240 Hours: 9 a.m. - 5 p.m.

Monday through Friday

2023

2023 Member

LETTERS POLICY

Maryo Gard Ewell The Resiliency Project

Thanks for another incredible Night of Lights Editor: What an awesome Gunnison Night of Lights last Friday evening. The annual celebration of lighting the community Christmas tree is not just the holiday kickoff. It is an incredible collaboration of many to make this winter evening one of the best for the entire community.

The Gunnison Chamber has been the main organizer of this event for many years. I have no idea how many years. I just recall when I arrived in Gunnison 30 years ago, it was already an established happening. It was then the Parade of Lights and over time has transitioned into what we experienced Friday night.

The evening cannot happen without the input and care of the City of Gunnison leadership and staff. Everyone is on hand for an event of this size: police, fire, neighborhood services, street crews, electric department, management and parks and rec. Then add in the layers of Chamber helpers to coordinate the evening and the wonderful volunteers who jump in and bring the entertainment.

This year we were blessed to have the Gunnison High School band, the HADA dancers, Western Colorado University drumline, Western Chamber singers and Professor Steven Hughes from the Theatre Department and all the time and effort Elks Club members put in to welcome visits with Santa. Not to mention the many organizations and businesses that brought their joy to the street and shared so much food, information and cheer.

This evening could not have happened this year without the very big help of Christopher Klein Construction, Martin Klinowski of PCI Construction and Sawyer Electric. They are the heroes of the event. Without their equipment and expertise, I never would have been able to bring this evening to life like it was. Thank you, my construction heroes, who helped the Chamber navigate the electric for the evening and to create a “Night of Lights!”

You all can vote on your favorite window-business display. Wander the lovely decorations, take in the holiday scenes, and turn your vote into the Chamber for a chance to win $50 in Gunnison Greenbacks.

Find the entry form at gunnisonchamber.com under the events tab, Night of Lights.

T h e re i s n o p l a c e l i k e Gunnison for the holidays.

Celeste Helminski Gunnison Country Chamber of Commerce

Name the wolves?

Editor: Isn't it bad enough that wolves are to be imposed on generations of honest men and women who are food producers in Colorado? More specifically Gunnison County.

The Department of Wildlife wants to add insult to injury by asking Colorado school children to vote on their favorite names for the wolves. These are not cuddly pets or cartoon characters. Why try to humanize the wolves in the minds of the children?

Maybe the answer is to ultimately outlaw cattle production and other sources of protein from any animal. Lab grown meat is a disgusting idea. Few foods are as nutrient dense as natural beef, which is a complete protein food and a valuable source of several essential nutrients like iron, selenium, riboflavin, zinc, niacin, vitamin B6, and vitamin B12, phosphorus, pantothenate, magnesium and potassium. This is from grazing.

In Egypt, the dung beetle (scarab) has always been highly regarded in the culture.

When cows graze and leave dung, the dung beetles appear and take a piece of dung and they collectively disperse it throughout the forest. The beetles lay their eggs in the dung and then bury it. It is a natural fertilizer for the forest. Cows also eat what potentially may be fuel for forest fires, keeping the forests healthy. They are continually grooming the forest.

Cattle stay out of the riparian areas because salt is placed on the mountain tops. All of this is beautifully regulated in part by the National Forest and the Bureau of Land Management.

The cows and calves create agritourism for urbanites who otherwise may not get to witness where their food comes from.

Do we really want to be forced into eating lab grown

gruel, while the proponents of such, run around yelling "The sky is falling, the sky is falling."

Having school children participate in naming the wolves is a slap in the face to all those, who will most assuredly be hurt, by the unnecessary reintroduction of wolves.

Pam Randall Gunnison

Not a ‘reintroduction’ Editor: Sad news from the Colorado Parks and Wildlife Commission this week. The overwhelming Eastern Slope vote in 2020 to add the new vicious wolf population into western Colorado won’t initially include Gunnison County.

This of course is not a “reintroduction,” but is the introduction of the new, dangerously aggressive wolf. It is sad because only Eagle, Summit and Grand Counties will receive the initial importation, no later than Dec. 31, 2023, even though CPW did not even begin developing the initial protections necessary to guard citizens in the other three counties.

Deer and cattle are the main targets of the new wolves, so as to the deer population specifically. Building incredibly protective, high tech fencing around, for example, school playgrounds, residential neighborhoods and downtown commercial areas, particularly where deer populations regularly inhabit, to keep deer and their predators out, has not even been considered for Gunnison County.

Phil Klingsmith Gunnison

New school board members sworn in The three newly-elected representatives of the Gunnison Watershed School District board — Anne Brookhart, Mark VanderVeer and Jody Coleman — took their oath to serve on Monday night, Dec. 4. Community members packed a small room at Lake Preschool to watch the ceremony. Board president Tyler Martineau made a few remarks before the trio recited their oaths.

Letters to the editor must be 500 words or less. We favor local topics and discourage argumentative letters addressed to particular people. If you reference data, please include sources for fact-checking.

We will not print letters from candidates for public office.

Email letters to editor@gunnisontimes.com or send to 218 N. Wisconsin St., Gunnison, CO 81230. Include your full name, address and a phone number — for our internal use only.

The deadline is Tuesday at 12 p.m. Letters may be edited for grammar, clarity or length.

(Photo by Abby Harrison)

Gunnison Country Times

City makes changes to utility bills

Thursday, December 7, 2023 • NEWS • A5

bringing dreams home | bbre1.com

Call now to book your holiday parties and gatherings!

The two direct current or “DC” fast chargers behind Wet Grocer should come online this spring. The city received a $250,000 grant from the Colorado Energy Office to install the rapid chargers in 2022. (Photo by Abby Harrison)

New EV chargers, strategic plan and council coming in 2024 Bella Biondini Times Editor

From welcoming a new city council and introducing updated billing software to energizing electric vehicle charging stations, a few changes are in store for the City of Gunnison in 2024. City council reviewed some of these updates at a regular meeting at the end of November. Councilors attended their last regular session on Tuesday, with new members to be sworn in on Dec. 12.

New billing software coming online The Finance Department is in the process of switching the software it uses to bill the city’s utility customers. This will come with billing cycle changes and the ability for residents to view and pay bills online. The new system will go live on Dec. 11.

With the switch, the city took the opportunity to align billing with the calendar months.

Moving forward, billing cycles will start on the first of each month (rather than on the 10th) with payments due the 20th of the following month. During the transition period, residents’ next utility bill will run from Nov. 10 through Dec. 31. This bill, which will be two-thirds higher than usual, will be due on Jan. 20. Normal billing with resume in February.

The city plans to launch an online portal where utility customers can login and access their bills. They will be able to view their water and electric usage with charts that are easier to read than the existing numer-

ic format on the bottom of bills.

Residents with solar panels can expect more detailed data for production and consumption.

Landlords will be able to receive automatic notifications when their properties become vacant or their tenants don’t pay their bills. The new software will also adjust move-out lags.

The Finance Department will be able to calculate and send out final bills immediately when a tenant moves out, rather than waiting for the monthly bill to process.

EV charger changes Next spring, the city will install a new electric vehicle (EV) level two charging station at the Gunnison Rec Center, with help from a state grant.

Two more stations, located behind Wet Grocer Liquors on North Iowa Street, will also come online by the end of March. These rapid or “direct current fast chargers” have already been installed, but have remained inactive as the city waits for a new transformer to arrive. Starting on Jan. 1, the city also plans to start charging a fee at the EV charger behind City Hall, which was free for the past five years.

In 2018, the Colorado Energy Office started to build out fastcharging corridors across the state. Gunnison was one of the 34 sites selected to participate in the program, due to its placement on an east-west corridor on the Western Slope. Prior to the addition of the two EV chargers at Wet Grocer, quick charging stations along Hwy. 50 between Montrose and Salida were few and far between.

One Valley Resiliency Roadmap Gunnison County was one of 16 rural regions to receive “resiliency roadmap” funding from the Colorado Department of Local Affairs following the pandemic. The grant money was used by local jurisdictions

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The roadmap addresses housing affordability, transportation and infrastructure planning, land use, climate change action and advancing equity and inclusion. The process Open Enrollment for Health engaged over 60 different entiInsurance is Open! ties and local experts between 2022 and 2023. City council endorsed the goals outlined in the roadmap at a regular meetNovember 1- Dec.15: ing on Nov. 28.

1, January 2024 Enroll between Nov. 1 - Dec.January 15 for a 1, 2024 effective date The roadmap will feed into Enroll between Dec. 16 - Jan.effective 15 for adate February 1, 2024 effective date the city’s development of a new Dec. 16 – Jan. 15: February 1, 2024 strategic plan. This six-month effective date process will begin in January and will be led by the newly Do you know... on auto renewal? appointed city councilors. if your policy is 970-349-1041 970-641-4700 if your coverage is being cancelled?

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Gunnison next week Although the four city council candidates — Marisela Ballesteros-Celestino, Diego Plata, Matt Schwartz and Scott 414 Star Mountain Drive | Gunnison 970-641-4700 970-349-1041 Frazier — ran unopposed, the114 N. Boulevard St. 214 6th Street Suite #9 Suite 102 (Ore Bucket Building) election results determined the Gunnison Crested Butte length of their terms. Plata and Ballesteros-Celestino received the most votes and will serve four-year terms, while Schwartz and Frazier will serve two-year terms.

The new council members will be sworn in at a regular meeting on Dec. 12 at 5:30 p.m.

Explore this rare opportunity for a smaller home at City Hall and join continuing (1840 sq. ft.) on 35 acres in the Ohio Creek Valley.

Nestled in a beautiful aspen grove, this cabin was councilor Jim Gelwicks. Unlike built to provide a comfortable place to get away the Town of Crested Butte, the from it all and spend time with the people you love. Located on a Colorado Scenic Byway and City of Gunnison does not peraccess to Gunnison via the Ohio Creek Valley - a mit voters to choose its mayor. popular area known for its beauty and preserved During this council session, open space with numerous large ranches. Offered mostly furnished, this home is ready for you to members will appoint the move in and start creating memories today! mayor through a secret ballot.

Plata has served as mayor since 3 Bed, 2 Bath | 1,840 Square Feet | $1,300,000 2022.

(Bella Biondini can be contacted at 970.641.1414 or bella@ gunnisontimes.com.)

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A6 • NEWS • Thursday, December 7, 2023

Gunnison Country Times

Housing from A1 wars have slowed, alongside the number of over-askingprice cash offers, home prices continued to creep upward in Gunnison and Crested Butte in 2023.

While homes are sitting on the market longer, sky-high prices have become the new baseline. The market “cooling” that began in 2022 and carried over into this year is not indicative of falling prices. This year, sales price ceilings were shattered at both ends of the valley as the inventory remained limited.

Some local homeowners found themselves immobilized by high prices and interest rates, fearful that if they sold, they wouldn’t be able to afford to buy again. In the Gunnison Valley, expensive is the new normal and many real estate brokers believe this is not something that’s going to change anytime soon.

“It's expensive to build, it's expensive to buy. The money's expensive,” said Bluebird Realtor Brian Cooper. “There's a lot of people being squeezed because of that.”

Highest-ever sale price in Gunnison Single-family home prices in Gunnison County have stayed strong despite an entire year of mortgage rates close to 7%. At the end of 2022, the average sale price in the City of Gunnison was $465,000. As of October 2023, this figure had risen to $625,000, according to the Colorado Real Estate Network.

In Crested Butte, the average price surpassed $3 million.

It was a year of records outside of town, with the average single-family home price for Gunnison County (outside of city limits) near $1 million. At the same time, Cooper noted a rising number of high-end sales in the greater Gunnison area, with 15% of Bluebird’s transactions totaling over $1 million as of October. Cooper and his team represented the highest single-family residential sale in the Gunnison area last month when an Ohio Creek Valley property known as DoubleTree Ranch sold for $5.4 million.

High home prices and low inventory have made it difficult for current homeowners to move within the market, he said. Instead, residents are getting stuck in starter homes, or

Deli from A1 2024.

“This is the space that we want to inhabit, and it’s in this community that we want to feed the people — and do so creatively and with local ingredients and in a way that lifts us all up,” Rachel said.

The menu won’t deviate much from the Firebrand, she said. They plan to sell hot and cold sandwiches, soups, salads and classic deli sides. The baked goods section will grow, given

Brian Cooper and his team at Bluebird Real Estate represented the highest single-family residential sale in the Gunnison area in 2023. The DoubleTree Ranch, located in the Ohio Creek Valley, sold for $5.4 million this fall. (Courtesy Bluebird)

are unable to downsize as they age.

“While you can sell your house for a great price, you're buying for equally as great, if not more, of a price,” Cooper said. “That has held out the number of sales … There's an inherent fear of selling your

“While you can sell your house for a great price, you’re buying for equally as great, if not more, of a price.”

Brian Cooper Bluebird Real Estate

house, because you might not be able to recreate that.”

According to Mortgage News Daily, 30-year fixed mortgage rates are hovering at 7.11%, down from 8% in October.

A l t h ou g h i t s t i l l re ma i n s unknown if the United States will enter a recession. Michelle Phelps, a senior loan officer at Gunnison’s Academy Mortgage Corporation, said she expects to see lower rates at some point next year.

Rachel’s many years of baking experience, but she said the selection will not include muffins.

“Firebrand made the quintessential muffin, and we're just going to leave that to Heidi,” Rachel said.

The couple toyed with the idea of opening a restaurant many times in their years in and out of Gunnison. Jefe spent nearly two decades working at Firebrand off and on, starting when the Magnus sisters opened the spot in 1995. He cooked muffins, made sandwiches and just about every-

A lot of potential homebuyers are sitting on the sidelines as they wait for interest rates to come down, Phelps said. But she cautions them, because oftentimes the rate of home appreciation outpaces a year or two of saving.

“If you can find a way to purchase something now and get your foot in the door and own something instead of renting, then you are likely going to be better off … Unless you are out saving [the amount] a home goes up in value every year, then you're actually falling further behind.”

While 2023’s stubbornly high interest rates have deterred some, the amount of equity and cash that most buyers are shopping with right now is incredibly healthy, Cooper said.

Steady home prices throughout Colorado and the Western Slope have granted homeowners interested in relocating to the valley buying power on the market.

Those who purchased homes five to seven years ago in Denver at $300,000 are walking away with $500,000 in equity — making the purchase of an $800,000 home in the Gunnison Valley not only realistic, but a “good deal” from a financial standpoint, Cooper said. The result has been an elevated number of cash transactions.

Nobody’s market The days of home prices at or below $400,000 in Gunnison are over, and locals are facing new averages that have continued to climb. According to Cooper, first-time homebuyers are making decisions based on this new standard as the sticker shock slowly begins to wear off.

Over the past five years, the price of single-family homes within the City of Gunnison has doubled — rising from a little above $300,000 to more than $600,000. In 2023, it was not uncommon for listings to sit closer to the $1 million mark.

The rising cost of labor, building permits and associated fees and code changes have remained a barrier for those looking to build new. It’s a factor that has continually put pressure on the existing inventory of homes in the valley — frequently viewed as the only option for those seeking homeownership.

“In my career, the option to build a house was always a factor in decision making,” Cooper said. “We don't have that factor right now whatsoever.”

Fo r K e l l y M c K i n n i s o f Gunnison Real Estate and Rentals, the Gunnison Valley has become “nobody’s market,” presenting a mixture of pros and cons for both buyers and sellers. Some sellers tried to list properties as high as they could, but were forced to lower the

asking price when homes sat on the market. Because buyers were pinned down by interest rates, they weren’t afraid to ask owners to make adjustments.

Despite rising prices, the quality of the homes on the market has stayed the same or even decreased over the past couple of years, she said.

“That median price, that's never going to come down, but we are seeing a little more flexibility in the market … Buyers are going to be a bit pickier.

They're not going to want to buy something that needs $100,000 worth of work after they move into it.”

The rental market remains extremely tight, McKinnis said, with no relief in sight for rental rates. Following a year of record-high property tax valuations — the total assessed value exceeded $1 billion for the first time in Gunnison County history — some landlords passed on costs in the form of rent increases. In 2023, residential property values in the county increased an average of 53% and vacant land an average of 47%.

“That's a huge hit to the owner, and it's going to eventually trickle down to the tenant,” she said.

thing in-between, Magnus said.

Jefe is also a well-known bike mechanic who works at Double Shot Cyclery.

Rachel has been dabbling in the culinary world for 15 years.

She operated a food stand at a Tucson farmers market for many years before following Jefe to Gunnison, where she sold baked goods at Double Shot. Most recently, she's been working as the development director at Mountain Roots Food Project. The pair will resign from their jobs at the end of December to focus on their new adventure.

“[For] my whole pregnancy, I was fed Firebrand,” Rachel said.

“It feels like a real coming back kind of thing. We certainly have history in that space and kitchen.”

When the news broke that Firebrand was closing, Rachel said she and Jefe had a brief “what if ” moment, speculating on the possibility of finally having their own place. They decided to take the leap and reached out to building owner Kai Gerkey.

Continuing a tradition of food service is important to Gerkey, who cooked burgers in that

exact spot back in the 70s when it was occupied by a restaurant called New Frontier. Eventually, his mother, Ina Roberts, bought the place and turned it into an Austrian restaurant, the Epicurean.

For Gerkey, the next business to find a home at 108 N. Main St. must honor the decades of feeding locals that had come before.

“It's part of our upbringing.

My mom was all about family and working together to build a legacy for us in a safe place

(Bella Biondini can be contacted at 970.641.1414 or bella@ gunnisontimes.com.)

continued on A7

Thursday, December 7, 2023 • NEWS • A7

Gunnison Country Times continued from A6 to grow up,” Gerkey said. “After she passed away, we decided to keep that tradition.”

While the Branhams finalize the Dilly Deli details, Magnus has been cherishing her last weeks with the old Firebrand ovens. Every now and then, she has held muffin and cookie pop ups. After a number of people expressed interest in the space after Firebrand closed, Magnus said she was heartened to see Gerkey rent to more local cooks. “[Jefe] is such a great cook.

I've never seen anyone put more love into their cooking

than Jefe. Rachel is an amazing baker too,” Magnus said.

“They'll carry on the tradition that Firebrand had of having really delicious comfort food.

Healthy and sometimes naughty. It just checks all the boxes, whatever you need when you walk in the door, you'll probably be able to satisfy either of those desires.”

The pair is actively fundraising with a GoFundMe campaign and looking for investors, with tentative plans to open the Dilly Deli this spring.

(Bella Biondini can be contacted at 970.641.1414 or bella@ gunnisontimes.com.)

(Abby Harrison can be contacted at 970.641.1414 or abby@ gunnisontimes.com.)

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Jefe, Rachel and daughter Lillian stand in front of their soon-to-be deli storefront. (Photo by Bella Biondini)

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A8 • NEWS • Thursday, December 7, 2023

Gunnison Country Times

GHS students tackle wildfire solutions Community wildfire expo set for midDecember Abby Harrison Times Staff Writer

Months ago, firefighters from all around the country packed into Gunnison High School to coordinate a response to the growing Lowline Fire just 14 miles from town. Now, in the same classrooms that were used to figure out how to contain the wildfire, high school students are brainstorming their own fire safety solutions.

With the Lowline Fire fresh on many locals’ minds, an environmental science class at GHS is working on a wildfire resilience project. They have gamed out ideal wildfire recovery options, discussed how to protect Gunnison’s most vulnerable populations and visited parcels on 7th Street in west Gunnison to assess defensible space.

All this work was an effort to decide, as a class, what community project they could pitch for a $1,200 grant. The class ultimately decided to raffle off wildfire preparedness items like fire blankets, emergency ladders and water filtration kits at a community wildfire expo at the Fred Field Center in midDecember. These items will be free to the public.

The free curriculum and grant come from the Hazard Education, Awareness and R e s i l i e n c e Ta s k ( H E A RT ) Force, which works with rural Colorado middle and high school students and teachers to learn about natural hazards.

The program is just five years old and is funded through the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration. “[It] includes students in the conversation and gives them the power to say, ‘Hey, we need your help, and it's real.’ It's not a contrived situation. Emergency managers need [their] help in communicating to all parts of

Gunnison County’s Cheatgrass Coordinator Petar Simic shares research he conducted about the fire history of the Gunnison Basin. (Courtesy Krystal Brown)

our community,” said Katya Schloesser. Schloesser works with teachers to administer the HEART Force program.

GHS environmental science teacher Krystal Brown has been using the HEART Force curriculum for years. Initially, it was a three-week unit in the Earth and space science class studying natural disasters. But this summer, a cohort of teachers from Colorado's rural school districts gathered in Gunnison to imagine what a longer, more intensive class could look like.

For Brown, a volunteer firefighter since 2013 and former employee of the Bureau of Land Management, Colorado Parks and Wildlife and the U.S Forest Service, the new, longer unit is giving her students a chance to study and plan real-time solutions.

“It’s all the pieces, and it's been really fun to bring all those entities together in one place,” she said.

At the end of November, students met with 10 professionals from the community with wildfire expertise. Some of those experts included Fire Marshal Hugo Ferchau, Upper Gunnison R i v e r Wat e r C o n s e r va n c y

Distr ict ’s Water Res ource Specialist Cheryl Cwelich and Gunnison County’s Emergency Manager Scott Morrill.

Schloesser, also the education and outreach associate at the University of Colorado Boulder Cooperative Institute for Research in Environmental Sciences, has already worked with over 100 teachers around the state. The curriculum is de velop e d in par tnership with local agencies, like the county’s Emergency Services Department. This way, students use local data in their wildfire scenarios to assess real-time risk in their neighborhoods.

As the HEART Force program has grown, so has its offerings.

Curriculums now are “traumainformed” for students who may already carry an emotional burden from a former natural disaster. There is also an increased focus on social vulnerability and identifying Spanish-speaking communities in the Gunnison Valley that need more translation support.

For example, the City of Gunnison’s Community Liaison Ricardo Esqueda and Yazmin Molina of Gunnison County Health and Human Services

shared their advice on increasing resilience work with the Spanish-speaking community. Meeting with Esqueda and Molina helped student Dayna Castro learn how she can help her own family.

“I've learned so much so far.

They told us how they were able to communicate to people who don't even speak English. That helped one of my own family members,” Castro said.

“I feel like Hispanic people don't know as much about [wildfire] because they're not used to it,” said student Karina Morales. “And it's something new here. In Mexico, it appears in a different way and in different places.”

Morales’ native language is Cora, and she said her friends and family need extra translation help. With the help of two friends, she’s thinking about ways the county could help her neighbors understand and prepare more effectively.

“What's amazing about a small community like ours is the students in Krystal's class come from all parts of our community and have a voice within their own neighborhoods,” Schloesser said. “They have

so much power as youth with these really tough problems like wildfires and climate change.

When young people speak, I think people are much more willing to listen.”

S c h l o e ss e r b e l i e ve s t h e project-based curriculum can also reduce climate anxiety in young people. She was helping a teacher in Granby, Colorado when the East Troublesome Fire started, one of the most destructive fires in Colorado history. Students returned to school weeks later when it was safe and talked about how they could have been better prepared next time. The teacher later shared that her nightmares about the fire subsided because of the project.

“It was powerful, and changed her perspective and her students’ perspective on their own agency in addressing the problem,” Schloesser said.

The community wildfire expo will be held on Thursday, Dec. 14 at the Fred Field Center from 5-8 p.m.

(Abby Harrison can be contacted at 970.641.1414 or abby@ gunnisontimes.com.)

Thursday, December 7, 2023 • NEWS • A9

Gunnison Country Times

Christmas bird count soon Arden Anderson Special to the Times

710 Hawk Drive | Gunnison

5 Bed | 4 Bath | 87+/- Acres | $2,900,000

3 Bed | 3.5 Bath | 3,435 SF | 35 Acres | $2,200,000

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(Arden Anderson is a biologist and photographer who has been involved in natural resource management and conservation in the Gunnison Valley for four decades. Birds hold a particular fascination for him and he has coordinated the local Christmas bird count for more than 20 years.)

43110 US Highway 50 | Gunnison

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T h e Na t i o n a l A u d u b o n Society is once again sponsoring its annual Christmas bird count. This will be the event’s 124th year, making it the longest running wildlife monitoring effort in history. The count enlists bird enthusiasts all over the world to record a snapshot of wintering bird populations during a three-week period around Christmas. The Gunnison Valley’s count is scheduled for Sunday, Dec. 17.

That morning, local coordinator Arden Anderson will gather a hardy group of birders together at 7:30 a.m. at Hurst Hall, Room 130 at Western Colorado University. The group will split into teams, each headed by an experienced birder, and fan out to cover a defined count circle.

Their task will be to try to identify and count all the birds they can within their assigned area.

All skill levels are welcome and those who are still developing their eye for identifying birds will learn from those with more experience. At the end of the day, the group will get together for a chili potluck to compile their results.

Local results will be sent to the Audubon Society to be compiled with the results from thousands of other sites around the world. Comparing these num-

bers from place to place and year to year is a powerful tool to help us understand bird populations and trends.

Local physician and ornithologist Dr. Ron Meye organized the first Christmas bird count in the Gunnison Valley in 1973.

A year was skipped in 1975, but the Gunnison count has run continuously since then. That means this year’s count will mark 50 years of citizen science focused on documenting bird populations in the valley.

Those interested in participating in this year’s count are encouraged to contact Anderson at arden@gunnison. com for further information.

Take a break from the hectic holidays and join them for a relaxing day in the field taking a closer look at the world around us. If you have bird feeders at home, stock them soon because many birds in the valley are recorded around active feeders.

217 W Rio Grand Avenue, Unit 6 | Gunnison

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Broker Associate c 970.420.1175 chrissy@bbre1.com

Gunnison Times

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Support local journalism A northern flicker. (Courtesy Arden Anderson)

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A10 • NEWS • Thursday, December 7, 2023

Gunnison Country Times

First ‘SmartPad’ arrives in Gunnison Prefabricated home offers more security in homebuilding

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Abby Harrison Times Staff Writer

Travis Colbert and his wife, Ann, watched their new home descend from the sky, dangling on the end of a crane.

Construction workers, clad in orange safety vests, pulled at ropes attached to each corner of the building, carefully guiding it to its final resting place on a pre-laid foundation.

It felt surreal to stand on the excavator as the prefabricated home settled onto a dirt plot on the couple’s seven acres in Ohio Meadows, Travis said.

The 1,500 square-foot prefabricated home was built by C o l o ra d o - b a s e d c o m p a n y SmartPads and cost the couple just over $400 a square foot.

The company offers modular, customizable units for local families seeking their first-ever home or buyers looking for an investment property.

The price, while still at the top end of their budget, was just reasonable enough to make the project possible, Travis said.

Prior to finding SmartPads, he said they had nearly given up on the possibility of owning a home in Gunnison County.

Travis, owner of Tributary Coffee Roasters, and Ann, a teacher in the Gunnison Watershed School District, have been in Gunnison Valley for over a decade.

“It was just so discouraging, like maybe this isn't even possible.” Travis said.

In Gunnison County, the cost to build — not just to buy — has soared over the last several years. Pandemic-era supply chain delays, labor costs and the continued difficulties of an affordable housing crisis have made the prospect all but unachievable for many blue collar workers in the valley. For the Colbert’s, SmartPad’s prefabricated home removed the uncertainty of homebuilding by offering a fixed cost and fixed timeline, making the prospect of owning a home in the valley real.

An ‘attainable’ solution The couple never imagined they would need much space, Travis said. But when they inquired about the cost of a 1,300 square-foot home, they were told it would run them nearly a million dollars, over double their budget. And the contractors who called him back — one of only a few — estimated a two to three year timeline. The county’s new 2021 International Wildland-Urban Interface Code, which went into effect at the start of 2023, just tacked more costs on.

The Colberts’ new prefabricated, modular home descends onto the foundation in late November. (Courtesy Travis Colbert)

“I hear stor y after stor y of what starts as $500,000 becomes $600,000 or $700,000.

It just seems like the price just keeps escalating,” Travis said.

They eventually gave up on the on-site build and started looking into prefabricated homes. After a good amount of googling, they found SmartPads. The company’s “pay to play” process offers a sliding scale of luxury — or affordability — from $300,000 to over $2 million. The level of interior design and added amenities are up to the buyer. In addition to the cost of buying the land, homebuyers still need to prepare the site, install the foundation, oversee installation and handle all local permitting.

Ryan Cox and his business partner Darrin Fryer started SmartPads six years ago when they saw the price of homebuilding in their native Steamboat Springs start to climb. To offer a workable solution to locals and also accommodate high-budget clients, they created the customizable, modular homebuilding process. They have already built and sent over 50 homes around Colorado and Montana, as close as Crested Butte, Buena Vista, Salida and Ridgway.

“Like all mountain communities, we struggle with affordability on new builds,” Cox said. “We were intrigued by a different, more streamlined approach.”

The homes are all built using modular construction, a process where standardized parts of a structure are built at an offsite factory and later assembled on-site. SmartPad’s homes are “volumetric modules,” delivered as shipping container-like structures rather than walls and beams. Delivering a nearly-complete home means the

buyer can work with a fixed cost and timeline, Cox said.

The company solely serves mountain communities, and the designs reflect the unique challenges of areas that receive heavy snow, harsh temperature drops and are situated at high elevations.

“It can be a mudroom where you have plenty of room for your ski, boots, helmets and winter hats, or how we work with clients to orient the home to ensure we're maximizing solar gain,” he said.

All the homes are manufactured in Vernal, Utah. The desert warehouse is situated nearly halfway between Steamboat Springs and Salt Lake City, a location that allows for more flexible and cost-efficient materials sourcing, Cox said.

Unlike rural Gunnison, Vernal is located along a major eastwest transcontinental highway, I-40, that connects Utah and Colorado.

From conception to completion, the process takes between six to eight months on average.

The SmartPads teams can build the home in the Utah desert while local contractors pour concrete and ready the site for its final home. For Travis, the concurrent timelines meant their home was delivered faster than he could have imagined.

“All the while, I'm fumbling through trying to get a foundation in the ground, and the house is finished. In the three months it took me to figure out how to get a foundation and a well, the house is built and ready to be delivered,” he said.

When the homes arrive at their final resting place, they’re 80-95% complete on the inside.

Flooring, cabinets, countertops and sink fixtures are installed, continued on A11

Thursday, December 7, 2023 • NEWS • A11

Gunnison Country Times continued from A10 insulation is done and electricity is wired and ready to plug into the grid. These efforts are meant to limit the amount of time and money spent on the home once it arrives at its foundation. Cox estimates that SmartPad’s model translates to 10-20% savings, as opposed to a traditional on-site build.

Even with all the benefits of the SmartPad, it still took a village to make Colbert's house happen, Travis said. Because nearly all the construction was already done, he was able to act as his own general contractor.

Through friendly connections from his coffee shop, Tributary Roasters, plumbers, architects and electricians all lent a hand.

A “lucky” condo purchase in

2010 gave the couple the sale money they needed to even consider a home.

The Colbert’s moved into their two-module set-up right after Thanksgiving. In the future, the home is also meant to be a space for Ann’s parents when they need more support.

“We've always just dreamed of a place where you could host family and friends or if someone needs a place to stay for a while, we actually would have a place to offer them,” Travis said.

“This is like the first time, since we've been married, that we've had a place that you can use in that way.”

UNDER CONTRACT

1203 Van Tuyl Circle, MLS #805249, $769,000, 4-Bedroom 3.25 Bathrooms 1766 sqft built in 2017. This quaint contemporary single family home is surrounded by magnificent views of the Palisades in the quiet neighborhood of Van Tuyl Village. This 4-bedroom 3.25-bathroom property, a primary bedroom with full bathroom on the ground floor and half bedroom by the utility room that is easily accessible by guests and friends when entertaining. The living room is equipped with a pellet stove, moving into an open kitchen area with granite countertops, a deep sink and dining area nearby. The upstairs consists of a second primary bedroom with 3/4 bathroom and two large bedrooms with a full bathroom in the hallway. The natural sunlight from the expansive windows throughout the property provides views and sun exposure. The huge fenced in front yard will enable you to garden and play with your pet(s) and/or entertain your family and friends during the beautiful sunny summers in Gunnison. The irrigation ditch is available during spring/summer/ fall months to water the yard and provide you with ambient noise to enjoy during the pleasant Gunnison evenings. Call the listing agent for further questions and to schedule a showing.

216 Lochleven Lane, MLS #804508, $875,000, 3-Bedroom 2-Bathroom 1,988 sqft, built in

NEW PRICE ADJUSTMENT 1985, and with1.056 acres with attached car garage. Well built home situated in the beautiful

little Homestead Subdivision in Almont. Sit on your large front deck and revel in the views up the East River Valley. Located just 10 min from Gunnison and 20 min from CB, you are centrally located to enjoy the activities the area has to offer from world class fishing, rafting and hiking to snowmobiling and skiing. This 2 story home has its main living area on the top floor with a large open kitchen/ dining living room area with a wood stove that keeps the top floor nice and warm.

This area is a great space to gather and entertain as you take in the views surrounding the property. The property also has a sunroom that can be accessed from the second level or has 2 separate entrances from the exterior. There is a 1 car oversized attached garage and located next to the garage is a very large storage room/closet for all of your storage needs. The home has a lot of deck area on the outside for outdoor entertaining or to casually relax and take in the many different views. Almont is a quaint small town with 2 restaurants/bars located within minutes from the property. There is a free bus that runs up and down the valley from Gunnison to CB with a stop located in Almont.

(Abby Harrison can be contacted at 970.641.1414 or abby@ gunnisontimes.com.)

459 Fairway Lane MLS #806172 $850,00 4-bedroom 3-bathroom 2291sqft. built in 1979 This contemporary quaint rustic house is within a profoundly well known subdivision, Dos Rios III. Close vicinity to the back 9 of the Dos Rios Golf Course. On a .46 of an acre, has 4-bedrooms and 3-bathrooms, the house features hardwood/tile floors, kitchen fully equipped with stainless appliances, kitchen cabinets and an open concept living room with a wood burning stove and second living room or/an office has a pellet stove. On the first floor you have a half bathroom that is easily accessible. On the second floor the master suite has an oversized bedroom with a full bathroom and a walk-in closet with a sliding barn door. The other full bathroom is down the hallway between the other two oversized bedrooms. The enormous backyard has a shed and plenty of sun exposure to plant/seed flowers, play with your pets and have get-togethers with friends. The two car garage is attached to the house and is very spacious and heated by a wood burning stove. There is sufficient amount of parking in the driveway and along the east side of the house. This home is magnificent so don’t miss out and schedule a showing by contacting the agent.

A day of recognition Locals gathered at the Fred Field Center on Dec. 2 to celebrate the International Day of the Migrant. Over the course of the evening, community members exchanged stories about immigrating to the United States. The event concluded with a potluck, music and dancing.

413 W New York MLS #805945 2125 sqft 1 bathroom Commercial Retail $525,000 Perfect Opportunity to Move a Business and/or a Start a New Business with great past history of tenants using the retail storefront i.e for nail/salon, daycare, mechanical auto body, pet/animal feed and accessories-retail and granite-retail/distribution to name a few. The property consists of about 1500 sqft of retail space with storefront access to New York and a half bathroom that is easily accessible for staff and customers to use. An added bonus is having an attached garage with about 625 sqft with an overhead garage bay. The garage could be a storage facility or part of business operations. The property has 5 parking spaces and close to Safeway and the new location of 5 Bs. A growing and upcoming neighborhood. Don’t miss this opportunity contact the listing agent to schedule a showing.

UNDER CONTRACT (Photos by Aric Olson)

71 Caddis Fly Lane - $200,000, MLS# 809269 Nice level 1.07 acre lot with trees located on on dead end road so there is ultimate privacy.

Electric to corner of lot and it is with in close walking distance to HOA rental house for owners use. Subdivision located just minutes north of town and includes fishing rights along the Gunnison River and also includes many walking paths throughout the subdivision. Lot A next to this lot is also for sale, now is a great opportunity to pick up 2 lots to create more privacy!

KELLY

MCKINNIS

970.641.4880

AJ

MANI

129 EAST TOMICHI AVENUE

GUNNISONREALESTATEANDRENTALS.

USE YOUR VISION BENEFITS BEFORE

DECEMBER 31

SCHEDULE YOUR EYE EXAM TODAY ABBAEYECARE-GUNNISON.COM 970-641-2020

*Requires purchase of a complete prescription pair, including frame and lenses. Does not include Barton Perreira, Cartier, Cazal, Chanel, Cutler and Gross, Dior, Dita Lancier, Fendi, Gucci, ic!Berlin, l.a. Eyeworks, Maui Jim, Michael Kors, Nifties, Oakley, Oliver Peoples, Persol, Ray-Ban, Robert Marc, Silhouette, Tiffany & Co., Tom Ford, WOOW, accessories, contact lenses, or medical procedures. Cannot be combined with any other discounts, promotions, or insurance plans. Not valid on previous orders. Other restrictions may apply. See practice for full details. Offer valid 9/25/2023 - 12/31/2023. 23AEG-620369

A12 • NEWS • Thursday, December 7, 2023

Gunnison Country Times

An Artisanal Market celebrating Colorado-based crafters, makers, movers & shakers!

Saturday, Dec. 9 from 12 noon - 8 pm Sunday, Dec.10 from 10 am - 2 pm Lodge at Mountaineer Square Open to the Public. Free entry!

cbchamber.com/coloradocrafted

We’re kicking off the Holiday Season in the Gunnison Country!

PRESENTED BY GUNNISON BANK WESTERN COLORADO UNIVERSITY MUSIC PROGRAM

WESTERN HOLIDAY GALA

Helicopters aid CPW in wildlife research Early winter months are a crucial time for wildlife research projects and population surveys for Colorado Parks and Wildlife (CPW) biologists. The public may notice helicopters flying at low altitudes to conduct this work across the Western Slope again this winter.

CPW will work to place GPS collars on 75 elk calves in December and 120 pregnant cow elk during the month of March. This work will be conducted across the Bear’s Ears herd in northwest Colorado, the Avalanche Creek herd in the Roaring Fork Valley and the Uncompahgre herd west of Montrose. The agency is also increasing its monitoring on the Western Slope and will place additional collars on deer and elk in the areas outside of Gunnison, Montrose, Meeker and Kremmling.

Elk calves are captured using net guns and are quickly collared and released by the helicopter crew at the capture site.

Pregnant elk involved in the study are transported by the helicopter crew a very short distance to a processing area where they are given a GPS collar and an implant that allows CPW researchers to track the pregnancy and calf survival. A veterinarian is also on site to assess the health of the animals.

Research work is conducted early in the gestation period when there will be no effect on the cow or calf. CPW aims to understand calf survival and cause-specific mortality across different study areas in the state.

“The data we collect from these efforts is critical to help us

proactively manage elk populations in the state,” said CPW Wildlife Researcher Nathaniel Rayl. “In general, it is beneficial to conduct capture work in winter because the lower temperatures and snowfall provide better conditions for this work.

Elk, moose, deer and pronghorn prefer cooler temperatures and are actually less stressed than if we were to capture in the summer when they may overheat and die. The deeper snow cushions the animal and helps prevent injuries, and they don't run as far, making capture easier and quicker. Conducting this work in the winter also allows us to gather critical information about pregnancy and body condition.”

Classification flights for biggame species such as deer, elk and bighorn sheep will also begin in December and be carried out through the winter across the state as flying conditions permit. Classification flights help CPW understand how last winter's weather conditions may have affected birth rates and survival of elk calves and fawns last summer.

“If you see a low-level helicopter surveying wildlife, know that it’s CPW biologists out surveying the herds and getting out these important radio collars or tracking changes to our wildlife populations,” said CPW Senior Wildlife Biologist Jamin Grigg.

(Source: Colorado Parks and Wildlife.)

AND 2ND ANNUAL FUNDRAISER SILENT AUCTION

Snacks, treats and finger foods.

Exquisitely prepared by SODEXO Saturday December 9th | Quigley Hall Festivities begin at 5:00pm Music Extravaganza at 6:30pm ADMISSION BY CHEERFUL AND ENTHUSIASTIC DONATION

Helicopters are a key tool for CPW biologists to conduct winter survey and collaring work on big game animals across Colorado. (Courtesy Evan Phillips/CPW)

WATCH CONCERTS LIVE AND CHECK OUT OUR SOCIAL MEDIA! @ MUSIC AT WCU

CPW Wildlife biologist Evan Phillips places a radio collar on a bull elk in January of 2023.

Thursday, December 7, 2023 • NEWS • A13

Gunnison Country Times

No place like Gunnison for the holidays The Christmas spirit was alive and well in Gunnison on Friday, Dec. 1 when hundreds of community members gathered on Main Street for the Night of Lights. The annual tradition, coordinated by the Gunnison Country Chamber of Commerce, brings local businesses out to share cookies, hot chocolate and other holiday treats. Fire pits dotted the street and offered attendees a cozy spot to recharge or roast their marshmallows. The crowd moved south to the big christmas tree to watch ol’ Saint Nick get hoisted up to light the tree. He was then spirited into the Elks Lodge where kids filled the room to share their Christmas wishes.

(Photos by Abby Harrison, Aric Olson and Jaden McNeese)

A14 • NEWS • Thursday, December 7, 2023

TAYLOR LOCAL USERS GROUP PROCESS Do you have an interest in rafting or boating downstream the Taylor or Gunnison River?

Or, do you like to boat the flatwater of Taylor Reservoir?

Are you interested in serving as a representative for the Taylor Local Users Group?

Gunnison Country Times

Mulled wine o’clock Buckel Family Wine hosted a “Sip and Shop” on Saturday, Dec. 2. Community members enjoyed fresh mulled wine while perusing local artist’s booths for Christmas gifts.

Each year, the Upper Gunnison River Water Conservancy District (UGRWCD) seeks input and direction from the Taylor Local Users Group (TLUG) which is composed of appointed local water users of the Taylor River, Taylor Park Reservoir and the main stem of the Gunnison River above Blue Mesa.

The UGRWCD Board is seeking to appoint two citizen members to two-year terms representing: (1) Rating/Boating interests along the Taylor or Gunnison River and (2) Flatwater Boating Interests.

All applicants must be residents within the UGRWCD and experienced and knowledgeable about river conditions along the Taylor and Gunnison Rivers. TLUG typically meets monthly during the months of March through September.

(Photos by Aric Olson)

LETTERS OF INTEREST ARE DUE JANUARY 10, 2024 TO: schavez@ugrwcd.org or UGRWCD, 210 W. Spencer Ave, Suite B Gunnison, CO 81230 For more information on the TLUG Process, Taylor Park Reservoir Operation and Storage Exchange Agreement or application details, please visit our website at ugrwcd.org/tlug or call UGRWCD at (970)641-6065.

TLUG Appointments will be made at the January 22, 2024 UGRWCD Board Meeting.

All applicants will be contacted.

Ron Earl and friends Blackstock Bistro hosted local singer Ron Earl on Sunday, Dec. 3 for a night filled with holiday music and tasty food and drinks.

(Photo by Steve Nunn)

THURSDAY, DECEMBER 7, 2023

LISTINGS TODAY

37 641.1414 Stop by: Gunnison Country Times 218 North Wisconsin Gunnison, CO 81230 Email: classifieds@ gunnisontimes.com Ad policy & Rates:

• $7 for 20 words or less, 20¢ each additional word.

• Display Classified rate is $9.40 per column inch.

• Deadline is NOON SHARP TUESDAY.

gunnisontimes.com SCAN TO PLACE AN AD

Classifieds EMPLOYMENT

CITY OF GUNNISON EMPLOYMENT OPPORTUNITIES Police Officer Full-time, $68,900-$93,100/yr $33.13-$44.76/hr Performs technical, professional, and administrative duties related to maintaining the security of the city, protecting constitutional guarantees of all persons, protecting life and property, preserving public peace and order, preventing, solving and detecting crimes, facilitating the safe movement of people and vehicles and other emergency services as needed. POST Certification not required. The city will pay for the Police Academy if needed and pay a cadet wage of $50,900 while attending the academy. Includes a $15,000 signing bonus. Increased wages over above-listed salary available for working nights.

Personal liability insurance paid by the City of Gunnison.

Housing is available.

The City of Gunnison offers a competitive benefit package including 75% of medical, dental and vision premiums paid for the employee and their dependents, 5% of gross wages in a retirement plan, 3 weeks of vacation (increasing based on the years of service), 12 paid holidays, and 12 days of sick leave per year.

For more information, including complete job descriptions, benefit packages, required job qualifications and application instructions, please visit GunnisonCO.gov/HR

CLASSIFIEDS EMPLOYMENT REAL ESTATE RENTALS

A15 A16 A16

NOTICES

A16

CROSSWORD

A16

LEGALS

COMMUNITY

HERE IS WHAT'S

Coming Up

MONDAY, DECEMBER 11 AT 9 AM

Free Yoga

at the

Library

Instructor Katie Thomas will lead participants in a gentle, all-levels flow. Mats provided, please bring your own props and water. at Gunnison Library | Free & Open to the Public

GunnisonCountyLibraries.org

ALL SPORTS REPLAY is seeking an experienced assistant retail manager with knowledge and a passion for the outdoor sports industry to work with a great team.

Responsibilities include supervising the everyday operations of our retail and consignment inventory, ordering products and assisting staff to work efficiently while providing excellent customer service. 40hour work week, some weekends.

Benefits include salary of $37-$44K/year, two weeks paid vacation, IRA with 3% match, employee discount. Please send your resume to Manager@ASRGunnison. com.

ADVOCACY DIRECTOR: High Country Conservation Advocates (HCCA) is a 501c(3) non-profit based in Crested Butte, CO with a long history of environmental advocacy. HCCA seeks to hire an advocacy director to lead efforts to protect the health, integrity and beauty of public lands in Gunnison County.

Essential responsibilities include monitoring and advocacy regarding public lands issues, membership, development and community engagement and administrative management and support, including writing grant applications. This is a fulltime, 40 hrs/week position based in Crested Butte or Gunnison, CO which allows for remote work and flexible hours.

Compensation and benefits include a base salary of $70,000-$80,000/year, DOE and a competitive benefits package including health insurance stipend, paid vacation, holidays, sick leave and personal leave.

Qualifications: Bachelor’s degree (Juris Doctor or relevant graduate degree preferred), strong understanding of environmental and conservation policies and issues, general knowledge of relevant environmental laws such as NEPA, prior work experience relating to environmental legal issues and advocacy.

For more information or to apply, please visit hccacb.org/employment/employment.

HCCA is an equal opportunity employer and does not discriminate in hiring or employment on the basis of race, color, religion, gender, gender identity, sexual orientation, national origin, age, disability, veteran status or any other protected status.

EC ELECTRIC IS SEEKING

Journeyman & Residential Wireman for projects in the Gunnison and Crested Butte areas. Must have a valid Colorado driver’s license and pass a pre-employment drug screen.

Top pay & Benefits.

Send resumes to info@ec-electric.com or call 970-641-0195 www.ec-electric.com/careers

JOHN ROBERTS MOTOR WORKS SEEKS COLLISON CENTER TECHNICIANS AND AUTOMOTIVE CENTER TECHNICIANS. Competitive pay, 401K, insurance, paid vacations. 40 hour work week.

Apply at John Roberts Motor Works.

GUNNISON WATERSHED SCHOOL DISTRICT See GWSD website for details gunnisonschools.net Gunnison Watershed School District believes that students thrive when they are connected to something bigger than themselves. That’s why we create learning experiences that spark curiosity, helping students discover who they are and how to make a difference in the world around them. As they excel in academics, athletics and the arts, students find the confidence to pursue any opportunity in life. Our team is “Driven to be the Difference!”

HOURLY OPPORTUNITIES: Bus Drivers Food Service-CBCS ELL Educational Assistant-CBCS and GMS Assistant Building Manager-CBCS Lead Custodian-Lake School Permanent Substitute-GHS Substitute Teachers PROFESSIONAL OPPORTUNITIES: Counselor-CBES

GUNNISON VALLEY HEALTH IS HIRING: Please note this is not a complete list of all our open jobs. You can view all open positions on our website at jobs.gunnisonvalleyhealth.org.

Home Health C.N.A. - FT $17$22.10/hr DOE (bonus offered)

COACHING: GHS-Speech and Debate GHS-Assistant Girls Basketball Coach Please contact: Superintendent’s Office JoAnn Klingsmith 800 N. Boulevard 970-641-7760 jklingsmith@gunnisonschools.net

Peer Support Specialist, Emergency Dept. - FT $17-$19.55/ hour DOE Housekeeper - FT $17-$19.55/hr DOE Benefits Eligibility: Medical, dental, vision, health care FSA and dependent care FSA. All active employees working 40 or more hours per pay period are eligible for benefits on the first of the month following date of hire. PRN staff are not initially eligible for benefits.

Please visit our website for more indepth position descriptions, specific qualification requirements and to apply online: gunnisonvalleyhealth.org/careers/ or call HR for questions at 970-641-1456. (PRN = as needed).

All offers of employment are contingent upon the successful completion of a negative 10-panel drug screen test, criminal background check, reference checks, infection prevention procedures (TB test, Flu Shot, immunization records, etc.), physical capacity profile and acknowledgement of policies.

THE TOWN OF CRESTED BUTTE is currently hiring for the position of an unlicensed operator to assist in the operation and maintenance of the wastewater plant and collection system. This year-round position includes a salary range dependent on qualifications of $42,009-$64,361 and includes an excellent benefits package with 100% employer-paid employee and dependent health, dental, vision, life insurance and matching contributions to a retirement plan after one year of employment. Full job description and job application are available on the Town’s website at townofcrestedbutte.com/jobs.

To apply, please submit an application and resume to jobs@crestedbutte-co.gov.

DIRECTOR OF YOUTH EDUCATION: Provide leadership, coordination and strategic growth of Mountain Roots’ districtwide, year-round youth programs focused on environmental and nutrition education.

Includes direct teaching, guiding program growth and training/management of our 3-5 person program staff. $55-60K DOE with benefits. mountainrootsfoodproject.org/joinour-team.

100% EMPLOYER-PAID health, dental, vision and life insurance for employee plus dependents. Retirement matching, paid holidays, vacation and sick time are also benefits with the year-round position of Public Works Maintenance Worker/Heavy Equipment Operator. This position is with the Town of Crested Butte and operates construction equipment and vehicles to perform maintenance, repair, snow removal, construction and renovation work. Starting pay is $47,220-$57,500 DOQ plus shift differential opportunities available. The full job description and application are available on the town’s website at townofcrestedbutte. com/jobs. To apply, submit an application via email to jobs@crestedbutte-co.gov.

The Town of Crested Butte is an Equal Opportunity Employer.

SERVICE PLUMBER TECHNICIAN: Timberline Mechanical Contracting is looking for a service technician for troubleshooting and plumbing repair. Plumbing and customer service experience preferred. We offer high pay, paid holidays, paid vacation, health insurance and ski pass. Clean driving record is mandatory.

Timberline Mechanical Contracting Crested Butte, CO. Phone: 970-349-5679.

Email info@timberlinemech.com.

FOUR DAY/32 HOUR WORK WEEK: CB South Metro District is now accepting applications for a road manager and heavy equipment operator. This position would be responsible for planning, organizing and directing all activities and staff related to the district’s roads and maintenance. Duties include road maintenance, snow removal, drinking water operations, wastewater operations and other day-to-day tasks of running a utility. This job requires the applicant to have motor grader and heavy equipment experience. Applicants must be 18 years of age and have a valid Colorado driver’s license. The successful applicant is eligible to receive an elite benefit package.

Full job description, requirements, pay ranges and benefits are available on the district’s website at cbsouthmetro.net. Email resume to info@cbsouthmetro.net or drop off at 280 Cement Creek Road.

GUNNISON COUNTY EMPLOYMENT OPPORTUNITIES Heavy Equipment Operator I Public Works: 40 hours/week, hourly rate range from $21.72-$24.72, plus full benefits.

Administrative Generalist HHS: 40 hours/week, hourly rate range from $21.72-$24.72, plus full benefits.

Case Management Aide HHS: 40 hours/week, monthly salary range from $4,707-$5,722, plus full benefits.

Landfill Gate Attendant Public Works: 40 hours/week, hourly rate range from $19.51-$23.72, plus full benefits.

Human Resources Coordinator HR: 40 hours/week, monthly salary range from $4,440-$4,861, plus full benefits.

Deputy Chief Financial Officer Finance: 40 hours/week, starting salary range from $100,178-$118,618.

Full monthly salary grade range from $100,178-$141,702, plus full benefits.

Caseworker I HHS: 40 hours/week, monthly salary range from $4,989 to $6,065, plus full benefits.

Public Health Nurse II – Substance Abuse Prevention, Juvenile Services: 20 hours/week, hourly rate range from $32.03-$38.94, plus partial benefits.

Seasonal Worker Public Works: Guaranteed 40 hours/ week, hourly rate range from $15.75$22.28 depending on experience, plus partial benefits. Outdoor work that includes traffic control, fencing, tree and brush removal, trail work, recycling, equipment training and much more, all in a 4-day work week.

Patrol Deputy Sheriff: Full-time, 40 hours/week, monthly salary range from $5,552$7,853 plus full benefits.

Detention Deputy Sheriff: Full-time, 40 hours/week, monthly salary range from $4,989$7,057 plus full benefits. Only work 14 days a month.

For more information, including complete job descriptions, required qualifications and application instructions, please visit GunnisonCounty.org/ jobs.

ID SCULPTURE IS HIRING Interested in making the world’s best playgrounds, climbing boulders and interactive art? ID Sculpture designs and manufactures climbing boulders, playground sculptures and fine art sculptures for parks, schools and public spaces across the country. We use a combination of technology and traditional methods to create unique interactive environments.

IDS provides secure, year-round indoor and outdoor work in a unique fabrication environment with opportunity for travel and room for advancement. We offer benefits including PTO, healthcare and retirement. ID Sculpture is an equal opportunity employer.

We are currently seeking: Production Assistant(s): Ideal candidates possess a positive attitude, good work ethic and are eager to learn. Applicants must have physical strength, hand-eye coordination, and endurance. Initial responsibilities are to provide general labor and assist artists, fabricators and shipping departments as needed. Compensation is $20-$25 per hr. depending on prior construction experience and/or aptitude.

Project Fabricator(s): The ideal candidate for this position has construction trades

Thursday, December 7, 2023 • CLASSIFIEDS • A16

Gunnison Country Times experience, welding experience, the ability to work well with a team and a positive attitude.

Initial responsibilities are to fabricate various components for standard and custom products. Compensation is $23-$30 per hr. depending on prior construction experience and/or aptitude.

Project Sculptor(s): The ideal candidate for this position has a passion for creating works of art, ability to work well with a team, fastidious attention to detail, a positive attitude, experience sculpting concrete, rock climbing, course setting and construction trades experience. Initial responsibilities are hands on sculpting of foam, concrete, and epoxy. Compensation is $24.50-$55.00 per hr. depending on familiarity with IDS process, prior experience, employment references and body of work.

To apply for this unique opportunity, please provide a resumé, cover letter and references to hello@idsculpture.com with the position of interest in the subject line, or drop off your resume at 591 S. Boulevard St. Gunnison, CO 81230.

Learn more about what we do at idsculpture. com.

TEMPORARY LABORERS NEEDED: Need some cash this off season? The Town of Crested Butte Parks and Recreation Department is hiring temporary laborers for spring prep/cleanup season. Work will begin once the snow is gone from the majority of parks and public areas. Duties include raking, power washing, painting and general cleanup and repairs. Full job description and application available online at townofcrestedbutte.com click on “Careers”.

Pay $19/hour. The Town of Crested Butte is an Equal Opportunity/Affirmative Action Employer.

THE CLUB AT CRESTED BUTTE is hiring the following part-time and full-time seasonal positions: line cook, $21-$25/hr. + gratuity, dishwasher, $20/hr., server/bartender, $16/ hr. + gratuity, host, $16/hr. + gratuity, ski valet, $17-$20/hr., housekeeping, flexible schedule available, $20-$25/hr. Employee benefits include employee discounts and ski storage at the base area. For more information or to submit a resume, please visit theclubatcrestedbutte.com or email jobs@clubatcrestedbutte.com.

SNOW SHOVELER NEEDED for the winter season. $23/hour, full time hours and ski pass reimbursement. Email office@ prproperty.com or call 970-349-6281.

CB STATE OF MIND seeks an experienced and motivated individual for our development coordinator position. This is a part-time position (10-15 hours per week) with the opportunity to grow into a full-time position with the success of the role. Please email Jodi.zatorski@gmail.com with your resume and cover letter.

DEVELOPMENT DIRECTOR: Mountain Roots seeks a professional fundraiser to lead fundraising efforts, cultivate donor relationships and outreach, oversee strategic fundraising initiatives for this dynamic and growing food systems nonprofit. Ideally a strong leader, goal-oriented, creative ideas person. Starting salary $62-68K DOE with benefits. mountainrootsfoodproject.org/joinour-team.

HIRING CASHIERS AND COOKS: Full and part-time pay based on experience, but expect $22 + after tips. Drop resumes at Powerstop.

GUNNISON LIQUOR (The Ghost) is currently looking for part-time help. Nights

CLUES ACROSS

1. Spiritual leaders 7. Salt 13. Fortified wine 14. Edible mollusk 16. It begins with them 17. A way to compare 19. Governmentt lawyer 20. Back parts 22. 8th month (abbr.)

23. Very willing 25. __ ex machina 26. Satisfies 28. Quebec river 29. A doctrine 30. Popular pickup truck 31. Dekagram 33. Naturally occurring solid material 34. Company officer 36. Villains 38. Cricket frogs 40. German founder of psychology 41. Endured 43. A female domestic 44. A “place” to avoid 45. Cigarette (slang) 47. Canadian politician Josephine 48. French ballet/acting

and weekends a must. Stop by with a resume. 603 W. Tomichi Ave., Gunnison.

PINNACLE ORTHOPEDICS is seeking a FT medical assistant to join our team. Duties include clinical documentation, x-rays, medical supply inventory management and casting/splinting. Good organization and computer skills while working in a fast-paced environment are important. Position is for both our Crested Butte and Gunnison offices. $22-$24/hr DOE. Please send resume to office@pinnacleorthocolorado.com.

CRESTED BUTTE BURGER COMPANY is hiring the following positions: cooks and cashiers, flexible schedule available, starting pay $16-$18/hr. + gratuity. For more information or to submit a resume, please email: crestedbutteburgerco@gmail.com.

1 BEDROOM APARTMENT FOR RENT: $2,000 per month, utilities included. 970312-5767.

ROOM FOR RENT: Taylor Canyon, 3 bed/3 bath house. Professional/student, respectful, mature desired. Dogs. Dec. 1st. $900, all included. Text 802-595-9576 for info.

SEVEN BDRM, 3 BATH HOUSE FOR RENT IN ALMONT: Close to Taylor Park for snowmobiling and fishing, Crested Butte for skiing and Gunnison for dining and shopping. Sleeps 16 comfortably, fully furnished, including kitchen appliances and on-site washer/dryer. This home is available for $4,000 a month (full month rentals only) from November through March. For more information, call 970-641-1740, or email stay@harmels.com.

I. Call to Order Roll Call III. Pledge of Allegiance IV. Modifications/Approval of Agenda ACTION ITEM

1.WEEKFY2023 Audit Presentation-Paul Backes, LY AD SPECIAL NEED Online all McMahan & Associates A JOB? the time!

PLACE AN THURSDAY, MARCH 31, 2022

PAGES FOR NEW EMPLOYME

NT LISTINGS EVERY WEEK

DINE IN OR CARRY OUT 5:00PM-6:30PM 400 WEST GEORGIA AVE. GUNNISON

REAL ESTATE

patients

CLUES DOWN

1. Animal disease 2. Commercial 3. Craft supply 4. Storage units 5. Investment vehicle 6. Colorado Heisman winner 7. In a way, sank 8. Post-birth brain damage (abbr.)

9. Lay about 10. Intestinal 11. The opposite of yes

COD - POTATO -

COLESLAW - HUSHPUPPIES

WWW.GUNNISON

CATHOLIC.ORG

Need a quality 78 employee?

Full time lead cook, full and part time cooks, bartenders, beverage cart and wait staff.

Course maintenance and cart department.

Stop by and fill out an application Monday-Friday 10am-3pm.

.com

501 Camino Del Rio, Gunnison CO. Please call 970-641-1482 regarding

any questions.

Listings today GUNNISON WATERSHED SCHOOL DISTRICT

LEGALS

WESTERN COLORADO UNIVERSITY

COMMUNITY

Classifieds

EC ELECTRIC IS SEEKING

Place your help wanted ad here.

Deadline: TUESDAY AT NOON Head

and

Boys Basketball Coach.

FINANCIAL AID/STUDEN Help T ACCOUNTS play a role in supporting COUNSELORS: CERTIFIED RIVER our athletic GUIDE TRAINING programs empower The Student Financial COURSE youth through Services Office is sports they love! Learn seeking dynamic staff May 16-27 plus members with strong how you can another whole week customer service BLIND of experience on the FAITH join our team at and communicatio CUSTOM River, ON US! WINDOW n skills to fill financial FASHIONS is looking Top quality instructors, gunnisonschools.net/jobs aid counselor and for an incredible free gear rental, . student accounts showroom teammate hiring for this summer. counselor positions. and installer to join Best job ever!

The financial aid counselor our team. This is $475 includes a FULL-TIME (4.5 (full-time position) everything, days) provides important position. We will need training rebate after 50 commercial financial aid counseling this person to be able trips. Limited and student account to install manual, enrollment to ensure motorized and wireless information, while an excellent learning the student accounts shades and blinds environment. Scenic in high end residential River Tours, Inc. www. time position) provides counselor (parthomes and condos, scenicrivertours.com. student accounts accurately measure Locally owned and receivable/billing information windows and doors operated since 1977. for future installation and services to students, parents and be able to and university staff load/unload products. members. Exceptional Excellent customer PLUMBING SERVICE service, follow through benefit package including health insurance, TECHNICIAN on customer service Immediate opening situations, paid vacation for service technician. and sick leave, and use a computer, communicate the ability to Knowledge of basic 401K retirement plan via email and plumbing and customer for both positions. make phone calls is ELEVEN is seeking Start date of April 15. service preferred. a must. a full-time, summer We To view the full job descriptions offer high pay, paid This team member seasonal Experience holidays, paid vacation, will also need to have: and apply visit Planner to join the western.edu/jobs. a Valid Colorado Driver’s health insurance, operations team in training, ski pass.

Crested Butte. This Clean driving record (adjust on the fly accordingLicense, flexibility role is responsible for is mandatory. all pre-trip to schedule and appointments), respect Eleven groups, coordination planning for SPALLONE Timberline Mechanical CONSTRUCTION for co-workers and with vendors Contracting clients while being has and group logistics. immediate openings Crested Butte, CO dependable and punctual.

The ideal candidate for heavy equipment This is an hourly, is eager, enthusiastic, operators in the Gunnison, Phone 970-349-567 plus commission position very organized and 9 and a company paid a strong multi-tasker. area. 3-5 years experience Crested Butte Email info@timberli ski pass is provided.

Strength in both guestrequired. nemech.com Please send a resume Must facing and administrative be able to assist laborer or request for an performing physical interview to admin@blind experience in hospitality roles as well as tasks involved in faithcb.com or call construction activities.

THE TOWN OF CRESTED is essential.

Kelly 850-855-8838.

This position requires a Must have a valid drivers BUTTE is looking flexible schedule and for a Public Works license, references maintenance worker the ability to work in a required. $22-28/hr to fill fast-paced environment. depending on experience, an open position.

Qualifications: Colorado The company has benefits available. implemented strict Please Commercial Drivers PPE, License (CDL) or ability social distancing and office@spalloneconstructiosubmit resume to: cleaning protocols n.com. in line with CDC, State and County regulations

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CROSSWORD ANSWERS FOR PREVIOUS WEEK

Monday, January 8, 2024 Special Meeting@5:30 GUN -Mill Levy Approval Monday, January 15, 2024 Regular Meeting@5:30pm-CB Monday, January 29, 2024 Regular Meeting/Amended Budget@5:30pm-GUN Monday, February 12, 2024 Regular Meeting@5:30pm-CB Monday, February 26, 2024 Work Session@5:30pm-GUN XIII. Adjournment Gunnison Country Times Gunnison, Colorado Publication date of December 7, 2023 11605

Colorado Statewide

FRIDAY, APRIL 1ST $12 ADULTS, $7 CHILDREN ST. PETER'S PARISH HALL

DOS RIOS GOLF COURSE IS NOW ACCEPTING APPLICATIONS FOR THE UPCOMING SEASON

to obtain one within THE CENTER FOR thirty THE ARTS SEEKS of employment. Experience(30) days of date PART-TIME FACILITIES driving loaders, EMPLOYMENT A16 MANAGER rollers, backhoes and responsible for the other heavy equipment maintenance of the required. This is Crested Butte Center a full time position for the Arts which with benefits. Starting pay houses the Steddy REAL ESTATE is $40,000 - $57,000 Theatre, the Kinder A18 DOQ. Benefits include Padon Gallery, the RENTALS fully subsidized Jones Dance Studio, medical, dental and and A18 a number of public vision insurance, spaces life insurance and retirement art studios, and bar/event like classrooms, are also position spaces. Duties benefits. Full job description include managing, is available on updating, the Town’s website DRIVE YOUR CAREER the yearly maintenance and executing at townofcrestedbutte.

FORWARD: schedule for com. Please submit Hiring immediately! Become the building; performing application to Town routine upkeep a bus of Crested Butte via email and maintenance Western seeks applicants driver with the Gunnison jobs@crestedbutteof building systems, Watershed co.gov. Position is open for specialized equipment, Equal Opportunity School District and make until filled. The Town Officer (EOO). and machines; of Crested Butte a positive working with outside Responsibilities include is an Equal Opportunity impact in the lives of contractors/vendors Employer. children in our to assist in upkeep of NOTICES to employment-related responding the building’s systems, community while safely A18 discrimination interior, exterior, and transporting complaints or equity grounds; perform minor them to and from school, issues, GOLDEN EAGLE repairs; and other duties. as well as is looking for CDL drivers, conducting intake meetings Compensation $45 field trips and activities a mechanic and extra - $65/hour D.O.E. To with for additional employees and students, Apply, email cover helpers to join our letter hours. Shifts are 7:30 team. For more info and resume with providing call 970-641-3230 references to melissa@ – 9:00 a.m. process and support crestedbuttearts.org resources, and 3:00 – 4:30 p.m.

Please put ‘Facilities performing impartial but are paid Manager’ in the subject investigations, SPALLONE for 4 total hours. Learn line. E.O.E. Full job CONSTRUC writing more at TION reports of findings, and description: crestedbuttea has immediate openings CROSSWORD gunnisonschools.net/jobs rts.org for dump truck drivers following policy/proce A17 . in the Gunnison, sses for WEATHER Crested Butte area. successful complaint 3-5 years experience A1 ALPENGARDENER resolution. Full required.

CREATE A NEW RECIPE IS HIRING FOR THE announcement and to assist laborer performing Must be able SUMMER: FOR application YOUR CAREER: Hiring physical tasks western.edu/jobs. AA/EOE at involved in construction May - Oct. If you immediately. love the outdoors, activities. Must have Gunnison Watershed have a valid drivers license, gardening experience School District references required. we want you on our is looking for a kitchen Western seeks applicants $18-24 hr depending team. manager in on experience, benefits for the following State available after one Looking for experienced Crested Butte, as well of Colorado year of employment. machine operators, as Please submit hardscape and gardeners team members. Schedule kitchen Classified positions: resume with to: top is office@ Monday pay for spalloneconstruction.com. experience. We also through Friday 6:30 could train the right a.m. – 2:30 p.m. reliable people.

Security I (full-time Cook up your career Security with GWSD by Send email to garden@alpe ELEVEN IS SEEKING Guard) – Responsibil applying at gunnisonsch ngardener.com LODGE STAFF ities include to interview or call ools.net/jobs. for our Crested patrolling campus grounds 970-349-0252.

Butte/Almont properties, and Scarp Ridge Lodge, buildings, identifying BUSINESS SERVIC Sopris House and and ES Taylor River Lodge.

PRECISE PAINTING to policy/traffic violations responding TEACHERS AND EDUCATION Eleven Experience is hiring interior and and safety is an adventure travel exterior painters. No AL hazards, company documenting incidents experience necessaryMOVE IT RIGHT: ASSISTANTS ARE that provides comfortable lodging, happy to train the right and HEROES: Are actions taken, conducting seasonal food and candidates. Pay starts Professional moving, you dedicated to making crowd and guided outdoor adventures. at $20/hr with no experience bonded and insured, a traffic control during household, furniture, Our Lodge Staff and goes up for impact within our communitypositive campus events, are the foundation experienced candidates estates, pianos, you of the daily operation notifying and working name it. with future options through with responsibilitie for benefits. Flexible with teaching or assisting s including shuttling schedule, awesome Call Brad 970-200-130 enforcement to respond local law students? guests, executing crew! Call Rob at 970-509-085 0 to criminal Gunnison Watershed fine dining service, activity (as needed), 1 School District light housekeeping, inventory and more. has many positions stocking and available. For assisting in an array EMPLOYMENT GARDENER: full position descriptions of other tasks that Custodian I (starting contribute to providing , please visit Join the Town of pay $15/ an Crested gunnisonschools.net/jobs hour) and Custodial experience. This position exceptional guest Crew. Limited Housing Butte Gardening .

Trainee is (no a great way to available at The experience needed) gain hospitality experience Ruby starting in positions. on a creative, April. Contact LaDonna SUBSTITUTES AREN’T professional Apply online or email Garcia @ lgarcia@cres and hardworking tedbutte-co.gov or team.

Applicants must be SHORT-TERM: Gunnison JUST 970-943-5338x122 HR@western.edu. dedicated team players Watershed for more information. who thrive in a fast-paced School district has multiple Spend your summer Journeyman & Residential work environment, on Elk Ave. and longhave strong communicatio Wireman among the Town’s La Universidad de Western term substitute positions for projects in the Gunnison n skills and are beautiful garden beds. available. eager to contribute and A flexible work schedule Crested Butte areas.

Colorado está contratando to a growing company.

Enjoy a regular schedule Eleven is a global while being through Sept. Experience is available May valid Colorado driver’sMust have a posiciones de un Custodiolas company with evolving a part of a team who license and products and locations.

1 cares about pass a pre-employm maintenance of flowers, with planting and de tiempo-completo The company has ent drug trees and shrubs is student success. Learn y Aprendiz implemented strict preferred but not required.

Top pay & Benefits. screen. more at PPE, social distancing Custodio (no Candidates se necesita and cleaning protocols gunnisonschools.net/jobs must be able to work outdoors experiencia). Los beneficios in line with CDC, . and lift 50-100 lbs.

State and County Send resumes to info@ec-ele and possess a valid incluyen regulations to assist un plan de retiro por driver’s ctric. in protecting employees Colorado SHARE YOUR PASSION description and application license. Full job com and guests during PERA, beneficios de this pandemic. For or call 970-641-019 tuición, tiempo at townofcrestedbutte.com available online HIGH SCHOOL COACH: AS A more information and 5 de descanso pagado, click on jobs. Pay to Gunnison apply, please visit $18-20/hr. DOQ. The y planes de elevenexperience.com/ High School is presently Town aseguranza de costo-bajo. www.ec-electric.com/care careers/. hiring for is an Equal Opportunity/A of Crested Butte Para ers both a Head Volleyball ffirmative Action ver el anuncio Coach Employer.

2 BED/1 BATH CONDO FOR SALE in Dos Rios Condos just outside of town.

New carpet and paint, peaceful setting overlooking a pond. $265,000. Great starter home or investment property. Call 571-5500821 or email alex@alexrichland.com for more info.

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BAKED OR FRIED

ST. PETER’S WEBSITE:

• $7 for 20 words or less, 20¢ each additional word.

• Display Classified rate is $9.40 per column inch.

• Deadline is NOON TUESDAY.

641.1414

XII. Forthcoming Agendas/Meeting Dates and Times

Fish Fry Friday

Gunnison, CO 81230 Email:

CLASSIFIEDS

X. Items introduced by Board Members a.

4. Correspondence

B. New Business

1. First reading of policy:

a. AC-Nondiscrimination/Equal Opportunity

*Visitors who wish to address the Board, please make known at the beginning of the meeting via Zoom or if in-person, please complete the public participation form.

Mail or stop by: Gunnison Country Times 218 North Wisconsin

b. Payroll Direct Deposit #

3. Personnel Samantha Reddoch-Permanent SubstituteGES JoAnn Klingsmith-Transitional employment for the 2024-25 school year Tyler Hammer-Resignation-Kindergarten teacher-CBES Rachel Sabbato-Resignation-Permanent Substitute-GES Bryon Roberts-Resignation-Bus DriverDistrict

VI. Commendations, recognition of visitors, and public comment

gunnisontimes

a. General Account # 42888-

58456-58858

classifieds@ gunnisontimes.com Ad policy & Rates:

LIVING JOURNEYS, a local non-profit that provides community cancer support, is hiring a full-time development manager to assist with the organization’s rapid growth.

This position will help set the organization’s strategic fundraising agenda to achieve revenue goals. If you are passionate about helping people in our community, have experience running projects to success and leading a dynamic team, we want to hear from you. Bring your expertise to our thriving organization where your skills will make a difference. To learn more, go to livingjourneys.org. To apply, please email your resume, cover letter and three references to info@livingjourneys.org.

XI. Board Committee Assignments District Accountability Committee School Accountability Committees Gunnison County Education Association Negotiations Gunnison County Education Association 3X3Fund 26Gunnison Valley Community Foundation Gunnison Memorial ScholarshipHealth Insurance Committee-

43366

II.

V. Action Items a. Election of Board President

b. Election of Board Vice President c. Election/Appointment of Board Secretary d. Election/Appointment of Board Treasurer

AD:

VIII. Action Items A. Consent Grouping Note: Items under the consent grouping are considered routine and will be

The Superintendent recommends approval of the following: 1. Board of Education Minutes

a. November 13, 2023 Regular meeting 2. Finance Approve for payment, as presented by the Business Manager, warrants as indicated:

Regular Meeting December 11, 2023 5:30pm Lake School Conference Room This meeting will be conducted in person and by distance using the video conferencing platform ZOOM Webinar.

Please check the GWSD website for further instructions.

CHECK OUT THE FOLLOWING

IX. Comments from the public *Visitors who wish to address the Board, please make known via Zoom or if in-person, please complete the public participation form.

prior to the time the board votes unless a Board Member requests an item be clarified or even removed from the grouping for separate consideration.

AGENDA

C. Old Business ACTION ITEM 1. Consider approval of the FY2023 Audit

A. Superintendent Summary - Dr. Nichols 1. Successful Students 2. Strong Employees 3. Engaged Community 4. Healthy Finance Mill Levy update – Director of Finances- Tia Mills 5. Functional Facilities

enacted under one motion. There will not be separate discussion of these items

Legals

EXPERIENCED SKID STEER OPERATOR: Needed ASAP. Very good pay and compensation for the right person. Please call Jean at 970-275-8731.

IRWIN GUIDES IS SEEKING A GUIDE OPERATIONS COORDINATOR: This fulltime, year-round position will be responsible for assisting the Irwin Guides general manager with day-to-day operations and management of the guide team, including courses, day trips and coordination with Eleven Experience guest trips. This position will play a key role in Irwin Guides activity sales and logistics, including face-to-face and phone/email interaction with guests, management of Irwin Guides office, calendars and guide staffing, communication and coordination across Irwin Guides and Eleven Experience teams, operation of Irwin Guides retail space, and the development, promotion and sales of Irwin Guides professional training programs. A strong candidate will have knowledge of the outdoor industry and local Gunnison Valley activities and at least three years experience in an administrative role. This position requires effective oral and written communication, orientation to detail, sensitivity to deadlines and responsiveness to delegation.

Incumbent must be comfortable working independently and in a fast-paced team environment. During summer and winter operations, this position will be required to work occasional early mornings and/or late afternoons, at least one weekend day per week and some holidays. This is a fulltime, benefited position starting at $55,000$60,000 annually, depending on experience and qualifications. For more information and to apply, please visit elevenexperience.com/ careers/.

VII. Administrative Action Summaries

entero del trabajo y para aplicar, por favor governmentjobs.com/ca visite colorado o mande correo reers/ electrónico a HR@western.edu.

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A17 • LEGALS • Thursday, December 7, 2023 NOTICE OF ANNUAL MEETING Notice of Gunnison County Electric Association Annual Meeting & Election The Gunnison County Electric Association’s 85th Annual Meeting will be held on Tuesday, June 18, 2024 at 6:00 p.m. at 37250 W. US Highway 50, Gunnison, CO 81230.

GCEA’s Board of Director positions eligible for election are Districts 6 and 7 currently held by Polly Oberosler and Mark Daily, respectively.

For more information call 970-641-3520.

NOTICE OF INTENT TO DISPOSE NOTICE OF INTENT TO DISPOSE Notice is hereby given to the following party that their personal items stored at RE/MAX Property Management Storage, 108 S. 11th, Gunnison, CO will be sold or disposed of unless claimed by Dec. 22, 2023.

Unit 7 - Wendy Elkins Date of Redemption: December 22, 2023 Gunnison Country Times Gunnison, CO Publication dates of December 7, 14, 2023 11590

NOTICE TO CREDITORS NOTICE

TO

CREDITORS

Estate of HAROLD LESLIE BENNETT, SR., Deceased Case Number 2023PR30029

PUBLIC NOTICE

before April 8, 2024, or the claims may be forever barred.

Lea Ann Dickerson Person Giving c/o 415 Palmer Street Delta, CO 81416 Attorney for Personal Michael R. Dodson P.O. Box 38 Delta, CO

Notice

Representative, 81416

Gunnison Country Times Gunnison, Colorado Publication dates of December 7, 14, 21, 2023 11588

Gunnison Country Times Gunnison, Colorado Publication date of December 5, 2023 11483

Gunnison Country Times

ORDINANCE ORDINANCE NO. 17, SERIES 2023: AN ORDINANCE OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF GUNNISON, COLORADO, IMPLEMENTING BALLOT ISSUE 2B APPROVED BY A MAJORITY OF THE CITY’S ELECTORS AT AN ELECTION HELD ON NOVEMBER 7, 2023, BY AMENDING TITLE 3 FINANCE, CHAPTER 3.10 TO (I) REMOVE THE EXPIRATION OF SALES TAX AND (II) PROVIDE FOR THE DEPOSIT OF SUCH TAXES INTO A CITY PARK AND RECREATION FUND AND CITY STREET IMPROVEMENTS FUND AND RESTRICT THE USE OF MONEYS IN SAID FUND FOR PARK AND RECREATION PURPOSES AND STREET IMPROVEMENTS PURPOSES; AND SETTING FORTH DETAILS IN RELATION THERETO A full copy of the ordinance can be found on the City of Gunnison’s website at gunnisonco.gov in the City Council e-packet information or at the City Clerk’s Office in City Hall, 201 West Virginia Avenue in Gunnison or by calling 970-641-8140.

Gunnison Country Times Gunnison, Colorado Publication date of December 7, 2023 11597

All persons having claims against the above named estate are required to present them to the personal representative or to District Court of Saguache County, Colorado on or

Bethany Church 909 N Wisconsin St.

(behind Powerstop) • 970-641-2144 Two services at 9 a.m. and 10:30 a.m.

FREE lunch for college students following the 10:30 a.m. service gunnisonbethany.com 9 a.m.: Family Service with nursery & children’s church Check out our website for updates!

Or download our app on the App Store by searching, Gunnison Bethany.

B'nai Butte Congregation

PO Box 2537 Crested, Butte CO 81224 305-803-3648 Jewish communities of Crested Butte, Gunnison and the East River Valley in Colorado Spiritual Leader: Rabbi Mark Kula; available for you at RabbiMarkKula@gmail.com (305) 803-3648 www.bnaibutte.org

Church of Christ

600 E. Virginia • 970-641-1588 Sunday Morning Bible Class: 9:30 a.m.

Sunday Morning Worship: 10:30 a.m.

Sunday Evening Worship: 6 p.m.

Wednesday Night Bible Class: 7 p.m.

Church in the Barn

8007 County Road 887 Waunita Hot Springs Ranch • 970-641-8741 Sundays, 10:30 a.m.

Non Denominational Come as you are

New Song Christian Fellowship

77 Ute Lane • 970-641-5034 A Christ Centered Gospel Sharing Community where we want to be part of a community who encourage and support one another in our spiritual journey.

Sunday 10 a.m. / Wednesday 7 p.m. www.newsonggunnison.net

Saguache County Board of Commissioners Seeks Saguache County Planning Commission Members Saguache County Board of Commissioners are seeking members and alternates from: Town of Saguache surrounding area – member and alternate La Garita/Center area – member and alternate Town of Center and surrounding area – member and alternate Cochetopa area – alternate Moffat and surrounding area – alternate Hooper and surrounding area – member and alternate Villa Grove and surrounding area – member and alternate At Large for All of Saguache County – member and alternate Crestone and surrounding area – alternate The representative must be a property owner or property manager and reside in the area they are interested in representing. Regular member terms are for three years and the alternate terms are for one year.

Saguache County Planning Commission meets on the last Thursday of each month in the Road and Bridge meeting room. The Planning Commission may also have work sessions throughout each month to work on the Saguache County Master Plan and different items.

Saguache County Planning Commission members and alternates are paid $100 for every regular meeting they attend, plus mileage reimbursement.

If you are interested, please send a brief letter of interest stating qualifications and interest to: Saguache County Land Use, Attn: Amber Wilson, PO Box 326, Saguache, CO 81149 prior to Friday, December 29th, 2023. All applicants will be interviewed by the Board of County Commissioners. Should you have any questions please call Amber Wilson at 719-655-2321.

Gunnison Country Times Gunnison, Colorado Publication dates of December 7, 14, 21, 28, 2023 11556

Faith Directory

Community Church of Gunnison

The Good Samaritan Episcopal Church

Rocky Mountain Christian Ministries

107 N. Iowa • 970-641- 0925 Pastor Larry Nelson Christmas Eve Service 7:00 p.m.

Sunday Morning Worship 9:30 a.m.

Weekend Services 9:30 a.m.

Nursery & Age-Graded Ministry Weekly Student Ministry Weekly Adult LifeGroups Office Hours: Mon-Thurs, 9-4 For more info: ccgunnison.com or email info@ccgunnison.com Join us in-person, listen to our broadcast on 98.3 FM, or view online stream on YouTube Transforming Lives • Building Community

307 W. Virginia Ave. • 970-641-0429 Rev. Laura Osborne, Vicar Sunday Morning Holy Eucharist, Rite II 9 a.m.

Children's Sunday school 9 a.m. - 9:40 a.m.

Office Hours: M-Th 9 a.m. - 4 p.m. www.goodsamaritangunnison.com Visit our partnership church: All Saints in the Mountains, Crested Butte Holy Eucharist, Rite II, Sunday 5 p.m.

Union Congregational Church, 403 Maroon Ave., Crested Butte.

1040 Highway 135 (1/4 mile N. of Spencer Ave.) • 970-641-0158 Sunday Morning Worship 9:30 a.m.

Nursery and Children’s ministry through Middle School “Remedy” Worship Nights Small Group Ministries www.rmcmchurch.org

Grace Covenant Church Gunnison

First Baptist Church

101 N. 8th St. Gunnison Meeting at the Historic 8th St School House Reformed, Confessional & committed to Expository preaching Sundays 10:00 a.m.

Thursdays 1:00 p.m.

Women's Bible Study gracegunnison.com

Dec. 9 (Saturday): St Peter Church 5 p.m. Bilingual Mass Dec. 11 (Monday): 9 p.m. to 12 a.m.: Serenta to Our Lady (Serenade-Music) 12 a.m. Midnight Mass Dec. 12 (Tuesday): 12 p.m. Mass (Anointing of the Sick) (Bilingual) 6 p.m. The Roses Mass (Bilingual) 7:30 p.m. Dinner in the Parish Hall.

120 N. Pine St. • 970-641-2240 Pastor Jonathan Jones 9:30 a.m. Share & Prayer Fellowship 10 a.m. Sunday School Classes 11 a.m. Morning Worship Service 6 p.m. Evening Service Wednesday 7 p.m. - Children's Patch Club Gunnison Bible Institute Thursday 7 p.m. - College & Career Christian Fellowship www.firstbaptistgunnison.org.

Trinity Baptist Church

523 N. Pine St. • 970-641-1813 Senior Pastor - Joe Ricks Sunday Service 9:30 a.m.

Adult Bible Study 8 a.m. www.trinitybaptistsgunnison.com

Mt. Calvary Lutheran Church 711 N. Main • 970-641-1860 Children’s Christmas Program Sunday, December 17th at 10 AM Christmas Eve Candlelight Service at 7 PM Christmas Day Service at 10 AM

The Rising Church

92 C.R. 17 • 970-444-1545 Service times: Sundays @ 9:30 a.m., Men’s and Women’s group, Tuesday @ 6:30 p.m.

Rising Gen (youth ministry) Thursdays @ 6 p.m.

Gunnisonrising.church for more details!

St. Peter’s Catholic Church 300 N. Wisconsin • 970-641-0808

Our Lady of Guadalupe Feast

CHRITMAS MASS TIMES

Christmas Eve (Dec. 24 Evening– Sunday): St Peter(Gunnison): 5:30 p.m. Christmas Play 6 p.m. Bilingual (Mass) Queen of All Saints(Crested Butte): 8:30 p.m. (Mass) Christmas Day (Dec. 25—Monday): Queen of All Saints(Crested Butte): 8:30am– Mass St Peter(Gunnison): 11am Bilingual – Mass

Gunnison Congregational Church United Church of Christ 317 N. Main St. • 970-641-3203 Open and Affirming Whole Earth · Just Peace Sunday, 10:00 a.m.

Casual, Relaxed, “Come As You Are” Worship www.gunnisonucc.org

IRA, call or visit by April 17.

Gunnison/Crested Butte 0.00% to 0.00% Corporate Bond Rate

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Thursday, December 7, 2023 • NEWS • A19

Gunnison Country Times

Lights & Sirens CITY OF GUNNISON POLICE REPORT NOV. 27 PROPERTY - FOUND — 500 W. BIDWELL AVE. TRAFFIC - NPOI ANIMAL - RUNNING AT LARGE MUNICIPAL— 98 BASIN PARK DR. JUVENILE PROBLEM ACCIDENT - HIT AND RUN — 800 E. TOMICHI AVE. ACCIDENT — 400 W. TOMICHI AVE.

NOV. 28 THEFT: INTENDS TO PERMANENTLY DEPRIVE – 900 N. MAIN ST.

NOV. 29 DOMESTIC VIOLENCE — N. COLORADO ST. ACCIDENT - HIT AND RUN — 880 N. MAIN ST. ACCIDENT — 800 N. MAIN ST. FRAUD - INFORMATION/WIRE — ESCALANTE DR. CRIMINAL TRESPASS - MUNICIPAL — 900 N. MAIN ST. AGENCY ASSIST — 711 N. TAYLOR ST. ACCIDENT - HIT AND RUN — 720 ESCALANTE DR. THEFT - COMMITS TWO OR MORE THEFTS AGAINST THE SAME PERSON — 900 N. MAIN ST. WELFARE ASSIST — REED ST T H E F T : I NT E N D S TO P E R M A N E N T LY DEPRIVE — 3 0 8 E . G E O R G I A AV E .

NOV. 30 THEFT: INTENDS TO PERMANENTLY DEPRIVE — 205 SYDNEY ST. WARRANT SERVICE - OTHER JURISDICTION — 412 E. TOMICHI AVE.

DEC. 1 CONTROLLED SUBSTANCE: U NLAWFUL POSSESSION - EXCEPT MARIJUANA — 115 N. 14TH ST. HARASSMENT: STRIKE/SHOVE/ KICK — N. 12TH ST. AGENCY ASSIST — E. HWY. 50

DEC. 2 ANIMAL: RUNNING AT LARGE P U B L I C P L AC E S — 4 1 1 E .

TOMICHI AVE. DOMESTIC VIOLENCE — E. TOMICHI AVE. WELFARE ASSIST — 910 W. BIDWELL AVE. ACCIDENT — 116 S. TAYLOR ST. THEFT — 410 S. 11TH ST. THEFT: INTENDS TO PERMANENTLY DEPRIVE — 900 N. MAIN ST.

INFORMATION — 316 S. 12TH ST. DISORDERLY CONDUCT - COARSE OR OFFENSIVE — 300 W. DENVER AVE.

DEC. 3 WELFARE ASSIST — E. GEORGIA AVE. THEFT: INTENDS TO PERMANENTLY DEPRIVE — 900 N. MAIN ST. ANIMAL: WILDLIFE ISSUES — 1422 ROCK CREEK RD. CIVIL PROBLEM — E. TOMICHI AVE. PROPERTY - FOUND — 100 S. 3RD ST. HARASSMENT — E. GEORGIA AVE.

GUNNISON COUNTY SHERIFF’S REPORT NOV. 28 -Harassment report in Marble -Found dog taken to the Gunnison Valley Animal Welfare League -Agency assist to Saguache County - theft report

NOV. 29 -Summons issued for no proof of insurance

NOV. 30

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DEC. 1 -Deputies assisted the Gunnison Police Department on a traffic stop -Deputies issued a summons for driving when license revoked, expired number plates, fictitious validation tab, no proof of insurance and possession of drug paraphernalia

DEC. 2 -Trespassing report

DEC. 3 -Deputies issued a penalty assessment for failing to comply with chain restrictions, failed to observe traffic control device, and drove a commercial vehicle without a commercial driver’s license -Harassment report in Somerset

DEC. 4 -Welfare check -Deputies assisted the GPD with a Spanish-speaking disorderly person

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Gunnison Country Times

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GUNNISON COUNTRY TIMES • THURSDAY, DECEMBER 7, 2023

A MAN AND HIS CASTLE 1908

2023

Historic photographs were scanned from the Hartman family’s scrapbook, which is now held by Duane Vandenbusche. Current photos are by Abby Harrison.

Locals to renovate historic Hartman mansion Alex McCrindle Times Sports Editor

Only a mile away from the humming traffic in downtown Gunnison, a Victorian castle hides among aspen groves.

It is tucked away at Dos Rios, and wears its age with missing shingles and boarded windows.

Over 100 years ago, the architectural wonder was built by a founding father of Gunnison and his family. Today, only ghosts dance on its hardwood floors and descend the elegant staircases.

Last month, a passionate group of locals received the green light to purchase the castle and return the people of Gunnison to its dancing halls and historic chambers. They formed the Hartman Castle Preservation Corps. — a nonprofit organization dedicated to restoring the mansion to its past glory. The fundraising campaign launched in November, and is working to reconnect the community to a vital piece of Gunnison history.

Alonzo Hartman was a cattleman, pioneer and one of Gunnison’s founding fathers.

In 1872, he crossed Cochetopa Pass in a blizzard on Christmas Day and fell in love with the Gunnison Country. Twenty years later, Har tman had laid the foundation for the Gunnison townsite and became wealthy as a cattle mogul.

In 1891, he and his wife, Annie, built a masterpiece — a three story, Victorian mansion at Dos Rios. The estate became a landmark in the Gunnison community. Its halls hosted elaborate gatherings, weddings and balls. The mansion was dubbed a “castle” because of its Gothic turret, three-story winding staircase, stained glass

windows and intricate wood details. The Hartmans sold their treasure in 1911, and in recent years has sat deteriorating.

Now, more than 100 years after the Hartmans left their castle, a group of historians and locals are working to restore the home. This spring, current owner Dave Taylor agreed to sell the property to board members Polly Oberosler and Pam Williams. The corps began fundraising last month. According to its website, the group will need to raise $800,000 to purchase the property outright.

Because of the historical significance, the group is confident historical grants will cover the restoration costs, Williams said.

Though that is a tall task, the

members of the corps are driven by a shared vision to reconnect a crucial piece of Gunnison history with the current population. For the folks who have weathered many winters in these hills, the castle isn’t just any old homestead.

Local historian Duane Va n d e n b u s c h e d e s c r i b e d the Hartman Castle as the personification of the Gunnison Country. It is an artifact that binds the spirit of the frontier and the cattlemen with the modern day, he said.

Last month, the corps kicked off its fundraising campaign with an event at the Gunnison Library. Vandenbusche opened the evening with a colorful lecCastle, B2

B2 • ROUNDUP • Thursday, December 7, 2023

Gunnison Country Times

Castle from B1 ture of Alonzo Hartman’s history. He began by reciting a verse from “Blue Water Line,” a 1960 folk song on the importance of preserving history.

“The City Council met last night, the vote was four to three To tear the home town depot down and build a factory To take that stretch of history and tear it off the map And to take old engine number nine and turn it into scrap Blue Water, Blue Water, Blue Water Line.

If you can't afford a quarter Then you ought to give a dime If everybody gave then we could save the Blue Water Line.”

“That’s why we’re all here today,” Vandenbusche said.

“To save the Blue Water Line, we want to save the Hartman Castle.”

From cowpoke to king According to the biography “Dos Rios Memories” by Judy Buffington Sammons and the recent Vandenbusche lecture, Hartman was one of the first settlers of the Western Slope. He was born in 1850 in Iowa to a Canadian father and American mother who claimed to be a direct descendant of Daniel Boone.

Hartman began working with cattle in 1863 after his family moved to Denver. He

Spiderwebs haunt the historic wallpaper and wooden railings.

worked his way up in the trade.

He raised his own herd in the San Luis Valley before moving to Saguache in the early 1870s.

At the time, the only inhabitants in the Gunnison area were the Uncompahgre Ute Indians, led

by Chief Ouray at the Los Pinos Indian Agency near Cochetopa

Pass. Hartman took control of the cow camp there, and raised cattle and sheep to supply the Tribe.

In 1873, a new treaty moved the Utes from Los Pinos to a new agency in Colona, just south of Montrose. Because

Hartman had become a friend to Chief Ouray and the Ute people, the move disturbed him, and he struggled to relocate the cattle to their new reservation with the uprooted Tribe. After the relocation, Hartman built a drafty cabin at Dos Rios and

multiplied his herd.

A l o n g s i d e p i o n e e r Ji m Kelley, Hartman began laying out the Gunnison townsite. In his memoir, he wrote, “From a town inhabited by only prairie dogs, Gunnison is now a metropolis of 4,000, two

The gothic turret peaks through aspen branches.

Cattlemen pose outside the castle. Instead of using wooden or metal fencing, the Hartman’s weaved deer antler together

The Hartman family outside the castle in the early 1900's.

Thursday, December 7, 2023 • ROUNDUP • B3

Gunnison Country Times hotels and stores and businesses.”

By 1883, the 32-year-old Hartman married 29-yearold Annie Haigler of West Virginia. It wasn’t until 1891 that Hartman decided to build Annie a house unlike anything in Gunnison at the time. He spent $45,000 — $1,600,000 today — on construction and created a magnificent Victorian mansion, complete with running water, an elevator and library.

Inside, the Hartmans furnished the mansion with handpainted murals and furniture purchased at the World’s Fair in Chicago. Intricate wood detailing, Italian marble and stained glass added to the luxury. There was no doubt, Hartman wasn’t living in a drafty cow camp any more.

Historical accounts say the Hartmans opened their estate up to the surrounding community. With an expansive hardwood floor layout, the house functioned as a dance hall and was known to entertain until the early hours of the morning. The most famous event was the wedding of Hazel Hartman, Alonzo’s daughter in 1910. “ Th e b r i d e ca m e d ow n the stairway and entered the library on the arm of her father,” Sammons wrote in her biography. “They were married under an arch of white and yellow chrysanthemums by the big bay window.”

In 1911, Alonzo sold the property, when his son, Bruce, decided to leave the family business. The Hartman children scattered away from Gunnison, and Annie and Alonzo relocated to a sandstone house on Wisconsin Street before moving to California in 1926. He died in 1940 in California at almost 90 years old.

Preserving western heritage Over the years, the castle had many owners, even becoming a restaurant for a time. Taylor purchased the land in 2012, and locals have dreamt of restoring it to its original beauty. Now, after years of deterioration, the castle may finally be renovated.

“My interest has persisted for 10 years now,” Williams said. “When Dave offered to sell it, we were astonished. He has been eager to complete the project. It’s a place where you can feel the history of this town.”

The corps is made up of three board members, Williams, Oberosler and Shelley Popke, a former director of the Crested Butte Museum. They are working directly with Jody Reeser, a local architect and Tim Williams, a construction consultant with experience in historical renovations.

Reeser performed an initial walk-through of the property and returned with positive news.

“I was relieved to see the castle is in such stable condition, despite years of neglect,” she wrote in her findings. “The most delightful surprise of all, is to see so much surviving trim work, stair detailing and fireplace surrounds in such beautiful condition. That is not to say there isn’t plenty of work to be done, but it is a prime candidate for preservation and rehabilitation.”

Williams said her dream is to resurrect the Hartman Castle to its former role as a community gathering place. She envisions hosting local dances, weddings and events along with history tours.

“When it reopens, it would be amazing to host gatherings with the original songs and dances of the time,” she said. “The Virginia Reel, old square dances and bachelor balls for the community to enjoy.”

Now, the corps turns to community fundraising to make the initial purchase. Upon achieving ownership, the group is confident historical grants will provide the necessary restoration funds. However, Williams said the purchase will be a group effort.

“The Hartman Castle shows a great connection between w h a t w a s, a n d w h a t i s,” Vandenbusche said. “It was built at a time of great optimism. Ranching was booming, the railroads were running and the economy was humming along. The castle is a monument to the past. It is a monument to the fortitude of the Gunnison Country.”

Donations, volunteer opportunities and information can be found at hartmancastle.org.

(Alex McCrindle can be contacted at 970.641.1414 or alex@ gunnisontimes.com.)

GUNNISON VALLEY SENIORS CALENDAR Be a Smile-Maker! Donate to Senior Meals! Donate to help the Gunnison Senior Center’s – Senior Meals program keep the costs of our meals down. Checks payable to: City of Gunnison. Mail to: Gunnison Senior Center, 200 E. Spencer Ave., Gunnison, CO 81230.

Ongoing Senior Services

Delivery AssistanceSENIOR Hotline: (970) 641-7959 - assistance with ordering, CENTER PROGRAMS • Dec. 13 Origami.

Joinprescription local Origami practitioner, Judy Gazzoli, pick-up and(12:45pm): deliveryHoliday of groceries and medications. for this fun workshop and take home some holiday gifts for friends and family. Spaces This includes deliveries from the Food Bank. limited – RSVP required. Costs: Senior Center membership + $5.00 (payable on day of workshop) • Dec.Meals: 15 (11:30am): Mealsfor with Christmas Carol Sing-Along. for a delicious Senior (970) Senior 641-8272 advance orders OR (970) RSVP 641-2107 for meal, then stay to sing your favorite Christmas carols accompanied by Jody Coleman on same-day service. Pick-up or delivery only! Meals served Mondays, keyboards. allMeal. meals, all days are $4 during Wednesdays, & Fridays.

Please • Dec. 20 (11:30am): Senior Meals note: - Holiday Reservations required (unlessthis you time. regularly receive meals). $5.00 per person for ages 55 & up.

Order in advance if possible! Upcoming menu:

• March 27: Lasagna, green beans, salad, garlic bread, dessert Regular Activities: Mondays – Bridge @ 1 pm; Tuesdays – Canasta @ 2pm; Wednesdays – Book Club 1 pm on 1ststeak, Weds.mashed of month;potatoes, Thursdays –corn, Bridgerolls, @ 1 pm; Fridays – Art Club @ • March 30:@Salisbury fruit, dessert 12:30 pm & Mahjong @ 1 pm • April 1: Stew, carrot/raisin salad, Mandarin oranges, rolls, dessert All RSVPs and more info on Senior Center programs: egillis@gunnisonco.gov or 970-6418272.

Senior Shopping Hours: FITNESS @ THE REC CENTER – Sign up at the Rec Center front desk!

• City Market – Mondays, Wednesdays, Fridays (7AM – 8AM) Mondays & Wednesdays in the Gym • Silver –Sneakers Boom @ 9:30 am – 9AM) • Safeway Tuesdays & Muscle Thursdays (7AM • Silver Sneakers Classic @ 10:15 am • Walmart – Tuesdays (6AM – 7AM) Tuesdays @ 10am in the Leisure Pool • Gunnison VitaminSplash & Health Food Store – Monday - Saturday (8AM – 9AM) • Silver Sneakers Class (all levels) • Clark’s SENIORMarket MEALS (Crested Butte) – Every day (8AM – 9AM) Mondays, Wednesdays & Fridays @ 11:30 am. $5.00 per meals. Advanced orders appreciate (24Form: hours). www.gunnisoncounty.org/covid19.

Pick-ups between 11 – 11:15 am (advanced orders only).

Self-reporting ORDER MEALS: 970-641-8272

If you have symptoms but are otherwise OK, please fill out the form.

MENU: (all meals come with dessert!)

If you•cannot fill 11: outRoast the Beef, form,green call beans, the Call Center (970)homemade 641-7660.bread Mon., Dec. roasted potatoes, • Weds., Dec. 13: Chili, cornbread, salad, fruit • Fri., Dec. 15: Brunch for Lunch! Egg casserole, sausage & gravy, hashbrowns, biscuits, Call Center: (970) 641-7660. If you are having symptoms, cannot fill out the fruit onlineDec. form, your areSing-Along! worsening, call RSVP! the Call Center. DO NOT go 15 isor also the symptoms Christmas Carol Please & visitors welcome!

Homebound 55 & up eligible delivery. If you need toWalk-in your doctor’s or the hospital.

If itadults is anages emergency, callfor 911. a ride, call GVH Senior Bus @ 970-596-6700 (call in advance) or call the Senior Center 970-6418272.

Please practice social isolation.

Remain SERVICES 6 feet or more from others when ONGOING needing to be Food out, Pantry but staying at(1home if Wednesdays at all possible.

Gunnison Country – Mondays – 4 pm), (1 – 7 pm), Thursdays for 60+ (10 am

Alonzo and Annie Hartman

– 2 pm). Contact: 970-641-4156, Located on the SW Corner of Main St. & Ohio Ave. GVH Senior Bus: 7 days a week, 9 am – 4 pm. Call in advance! 970-596-6700.

The Gunnison Senior Center & –Community Recreation Center Crested Butte Senior Bus: Monday thru Friday, 9 am 4 pm Services Montrose & Grand Junction for medical appointments. Call at least 1isweek in advance, or more.

970-275-4768. closed until April 30th.

Gunnison County HHS Senior Resource Office: Call for appointments. 970-641-3244.

B4 • ROUNDUP • Thursday, December 7, 2023

Holiday Specials!

Stop in and shop at Krivanek Jewelers where we make the holiday shopping easy!

With a new sale every week!

So you never miss an opportunity for the perfect gift!

Gunnison Country Times

‘An Eagle Scout is always an Eagle Scout’ Mayor Diego Plata read proclamations for Spencer Hays, Kade Jones and Jonathan Robinson, each a new Eagle Scout from Gunnison Troop 476, during a city council meeting on Tuesday, Dec. 5.

December 3rd - 9th all Diamond and

fashion jewelry will be 20-30% Off

December 10th - 16th all colored

stone jewelry will be 20-30% Off

December 17th- 24th Select

Estate Items will be 20-30% Off

Only at Krivanek Jewelers 101 F St. Salida Co. 719-539-7493

HOLIDAY DRINK SPECIALS! Eggnog Latte Eggnog Chai

(Photo by Bella Biondini)

Caramel Apple Cider Butter Rum White Mocha Gingerbread Chai Gingerbread White Mocha Peppermint Hot Cocoa

Coffee Trader gift cards make the perfect holiday gift!

Starting at just $10!

Peppermint Mocha

ON THE CORNER OF MAIN ST. AND DENVER

GUNNISON VALLEY HEALTH

WOMEN’S HEALTH CLINIC Putting arts and culture in the

spotlight.

www.gunnisontimes.com

Offering hormone replacement therapy for: • Younger women with hormone imbalances • Treatment of symptoms related to perimenopause • Treatment of symptoms related to menopause The clinic is open on Mondays and Wednesdays.

Appointments can be scheduled by calling 970-641-3927.

WWW.GUNNISONVALLEYHEALTH.ORG/WOMENSHEALTH

Thursday, December 7, 2023 • ROUNDUP • B5

Gunnison Country Times

PEOPLE & HAPPENINGS High school theater The Gunnison High School Drama Club presents “Disney’s Beauty and the Beast, Jr.” on Dec. 8 and 15 at 7 p.m. and Dec. 9 and 16 at 4 p.m. at Gunnison High School. Tickets will be available at the door with a suggested donation of $5. Music by Alan Menken, lyrics by Howard Ashman and Tim Rice, book

by LInda Woolverton. The play is presented through special arrangement with Music Theater International (MTI). All authorized performance materials are also supplied by MTI. Learn more at MTIShows.com.

Ugly sweater fun run Join the Six Points Ugly Sweater Fun Run on Dec. 9.

Registration opens at 9:30 a.m at the Gunnison Rec Center. The entry fee is $15 per person or $25 per family, with proceeds supporting adults with intellectual disabilities. The run will begin at 10:30 a.m. and finish at Six Points with hot cocoa, cookies, awards for best ugly sweater and more.

Holiday music at Western

auction starts at 5 p.m. and the concert begins at 6:30 p.m.

Holiday theater You may be familiar with the Nutcracker ballet, but do you know the actual story on which it’s based? Firebird Theatre Company presents “The Nutcracker and the Mouse King'' at the Majestic Theatre in Crested Butte from Dec. 9-10 and 16-17 at 2 p.m. Tickets are $5 for kids and $10 for adults and may be purchased in advance at cbmajestic.org.

Community menorah lighting A Crested Butte community menorah lighting will take place on Dec. 13 at 4 p.m. at 3rd Street and Elk Avenue in downtown CB. This event, open to all regardless of background or affiliation, will feature live music, traditional Hanukkah treats like latkes, donuts, hot cocoa and special gifts for children, ensuring a welcoming and joyous experience for all ages. Attendees are encouraged to RSVP at HanukkahRockies. com.

T h e We s t e r n C o l o ra d o University Music Department’s Holiday Gala takes place at Quigley Hall on the WCU campus on Dec. 9. This free event featuring food, fun and a silent

Free legal clinics Free legal clinics for parties who have no attorney will be held on Dec. 13 from 2-5 p.m. at the Gunnison and Crested Butte Libraries. Volunteer attorneys will answer questions and explain the process and procedure for all areas of Colorado civil law. Contact t h e Gu n n i s o n L i b ra r y at 970.641.3485 or 970.349.6535 in Crested Butte to be added to the sign-up sheet. Space is limited.

Wildfire and natural disaster resilience expo Join Gunnison High School science and history students on Dec. 14 from 5-8 p.m. at the Fred Field Center to learn about the risks of wildfire in our community, how you can be prepared and how to help our community become more resilient to natural hazards.

Dinner will be provided.

HERE IS WHAT'S

Coming Up

MONDAY, DECEMBER 11 AT 9 AM

Free Yoga

at the

Library

Instructor Katie Thomas will lead participants in a gentle, all-levels flow. Mats provided, please bring your own props and water. at Gunnison Library | Free & Open to the Public

GunnisonCountyLibraries.org

Wonderland fundraiser Wonderland Nature School is holding an online fundraiser through Dec. 22. Visit wns. betterworld.org/auctions/holiday-silent-auction to donate or email board@wonderlandnatureschool.org for more information.

CB CENTER FOR THE ARTS BRIEFS Holiday drag performance

Gallery reception

‘The Nutcracker: Rated CB’

Kick off your holiday season with the premiere musical drag tribute to The Golden Girls television show, all the way from New York City, with “The Golden Gays: Thank YULE for Being a Friend” on Dec. 7 at 7 p.m. at the Crested Butte Center for the Arts. Ticket prices start at $25. Find more information at crestedbuttearts. org.

On Dec. 8 at 5 p.m., join the Crested Butte Center for the Arts for the opening reception of their “Sense of Place” show. The event will feature a robust bar menu and a chance to mingle with the artists.

The Crested Butte School of Dance and the Crested Butte Center for the Arts present “The Nutcracker: Rated CB” on Dec. 15 and 16 at 7 p.m. at the CB Center for the Arts. Ticket prices range from $25-$50 and may be purchased at crestedbuttearts.org.

Shop small Saturday The Gunnison Country Chamber of Commerce handed out the coveted Gunnison Greenbacks on Saturday, Dec. 2 at Gunnison Savings and Loan. Locals exchanged $80 for $100 in Greenbacks that can be used to support local businesses during the holiday season.

1% for Open Space thanks Kirsten Dickey 115 West Georgia Ave, Gunnison, CO

970.497.0679 To sign up your business with 1% for Open Space email director@1percentforopenspace.org Participation costs nothing. It is worth everything. www.1percentforopenspace.org

Buff’s,

Paint can cover up your car’s scratch regardless of make or model

Dan Buffington, Owner

(Photos by Aric Olson)

GHS: Uhrig, Japuntich sign letters of intent., B7

GUNNISON COUNTRY TIMES • THURSDAY, DECEMBER 7, 2023

Cowboy grapplers start season hot Uhrig siblings, ing the Cowboys firing into the team points. starting at 4:30 p.m. against tlers, for Cowboys to compete second round. GHS then fell, The underclassmen also Alamosa. Royce Uhrig, Harris against the best,” said Coach Harris and 36-27, to a burly Moffat County impressed. Roxie Uhrig fin- and Fry will travel to Ohio Uhrig. “It’s an honor to qualify squad. However, Royce Uhrig, ished 4-1 in the 135-pound on Dec. 6 to compete at the and represent GHS at that level.”

Sudderth go Miles Harris and Zach Benson bracket and placed third over- Ironman Invitational. The tourshowed quality in their respec- all. Evelyne Cope finished third nament is one of the top high (Alex McCrindle can be conundefeated in tive bouts and walked away with with a 4-1 record for the day. school wrestling event in the tacted at 970.641.1414 or alex@ B o t h t e a m s w i l l o p e n nation. gunnisontimes.com.) first tournament wins.

The Cowboys defeated both their home mat campaign on “We hope this is the start of a Alex McCrindle Times Sports Editor

The GHS boys and girls wrestling teams cracked open the 2023 season in style over the weekend. The girls began at the Pueblo Central Girls Invitational on Dec. 1, while the boys opened their year at the Maverick Duels tournament hosted at Colorado Mesa University on Dec. 2. The Cowboys faced solid competing programs and gained experience in the early season.

“These kids are gutsy competitors,” said Assistant Coach Seijo. “We wrestled really well and learned a lot heading into the season.”

At the Maverick Duels, GHS opened the contest with a 39-18 victory over Rifle High School.

Cody Casebolt, Preston Gomez and Malchijah Perez began the duel with victories, send-

Coal Ridge (42-12) and Meeker (33-30) in rounds three and four. Brock Fry had a strong showing against Meeker, alongside teammates Casebolt and Perez. In round six, the host Grand Junction defeated GHS 42-36, ending an exciting opening tournament for the Cowboys. Harris and Uhrig both went 6-0 on the day, boosting their confidence.

“Our varsity boys looked great,” said Head Coach Dave Uhrig. “To go head-to-head against some good teams with eight out of 14 weights filled is impressive.”

On the girls side, 2023 state competitor Caroline Sudderth and sophomore Romie Uhrig cemented a strong display for the Cowboys. At the Pueblo Central, Romie finished first in the 155-pound bracket, racking in 30 points for the Cowboys.

Sudderth also shined, finishing first in 125 and providing 28

Thursday, Dec. 7 with bouts

great opportunity for GHS wres-

The Cowboy wrestlers complete drills led by Coach Uhrig and Seijo in a practice last week. (Photo by Alex McCrindle)

Mountaineer basketball falls to Fort Lewis Western Colorado University fell to a 3-4 record after a loss to the Fort Lewis Skyhawks on Dec. 2. Despite taking an early 5-point lead, the Mountaineers struggled to keep pace with Durango. The Skyhawks left town in high spirits, winning 85-55.

HOME SPORTS EVENTS THIS WEEK WEEKLY SPORTS CALENDAR SPONSORED BY BLUEBIRD REAL ESTATE 970-209-2300 | WWW.BBRE1.COM

FRIDAY FEB. 10

SATURDAY FEB. 11

WCU Basketball v Fort Lewis Women 5:30 pm | Men 7:30pm

WCU Basketball v Adams Women 5 pm | Men 7 pm

GHS Basketball v Meeker GJV 4, BJV 4, GV 5:30pm, BV 7pm

GHS Basketball v Roaring Fork GJV 11am, BJV 11am, GV 12:30pm, BV 2pm

BOYS AND GIRLS WRESTLING DEC. 7 AT 4:30 P.M. AT GHS GYM HOME SWIM MEET DEC. 9 AT 10 A.M. AT THE GUNNISON REC CENTER

(Photos by Aric Olson)

MINDY COSTANZO Powered By Quality Service

(970) 209-23 00 cmin dy @gma il.com ww w .Min dy-Lan d.c om

Thursday, December 7, 2023 • ROUNDUP • B7

Gunnison Country Times

Swim and dive tames Thunderwolves Turner added another firstMountaineers place finish later in the meet, the backstroke events honor seniors at sweeping with a winning time of 2:14.19 Another double winfinal home meet innerthefor200.

Western was Makenna Gregg Petcoff Special to the Times

Western Colorado University upped its dual meet record to 4-0 with a 171-108 victory over visiting Colorado State University Pueblo in women's swimming and diving action on Dec. 2.

The meet, the program's last home event during the fall semester portion of its schedule, served as “Senior Recognition Day.” Coaches and teammates honored seniors Demetra Fellows, Emily Jauch, Jordan Maruska, Anna Maurello and LynDea Turner in a premeet presentation.

Pueblo took the opening event of the meet, the 400-yard medley relay. But freshman Sophia Del Rosario put Western back on track by winning the next event, the 1,000 freestyle, with a time of 11 minutes, 44.73 seconds. Maruska and Turner kept the momentum rolling with wins in the next two events. Maruska captured the 200 freestyle (2:00.88), and Turner touched first in the 100 backstroke (1:01.49).

Lambert, who led in the 50 free, and the 100 free.

Lambert's time of 25.41 seconds in the 50 beat Misha Little (25.48) and Zoe Wolfe (26.37).

The same duo led the 100 with Lambert posting a winning time of 55.53 to edge out Little's 55.73.

Ashlynn Mixon added first places for Western in diving events. She posted a season-high point total of 317.65 in the 1-meter, 11-dive event, and winning the 1m, 6-dive optionals with a score of 218.75.

Teammate Andie Moon took second in both events, posting a season-best 244.75 in the 11-dive event.

Back between the lane lines, Sage Patterson picked up a first-place finish in the final event of the meet. She finished the 400-individual medley in 5:00.45 to lead secondplace Harlie Taylor (5:03.92) and third-place Del Rosario (5:07.19) to the final wall.

Western closed out the meet with a victory in the 400-free relay. Morgan Nielsen, Patterson, Maruska and Little combined for a winning time of 3:45.92 to touch ahead of CSU Pueblo's secondplace time of 3:47.85.

(Courtesy Western Colorado University)

The Mountaineers will close out the fall semester with a trip to Pueblo on Saturday, Dec. 9 for the CSU Pueblo double-dual

with Colorado College and the hosting Thunderwolves.

(Gregg Petcoff is assistant athletic director for communications at Western Colorado University.)

Cowboy signing day Royce Uhrig and Kailyn Japuntich, two outstanding Cowboy athletes, signed letters of intent with collegiate teams on Nov. 30. Japuntich, who notched a second-place state finish in diving last year, signed with the University of Northern Colorado Bears. Two-time state champion wrestler Uhrig will be heading to Alamosa to wrestle for the Adams State Grizzlies next fall. Both athletes celebrated with friends and family at the GHS auditorium alongside faculty and staff.

(Photos by Alex McCrindle)

B8 • ROUNDUP • Thursday, December 7, 2023

Gunnison Country Times

Jolly tales with Saint Nick Santa Clause paid a visit to the Gunnison County Public Library on Saturday, Dec. 2 to spread holiday cheer. Kids and parents alike enjoyed cookies and hot cocoa while Santa read the crowd stories.

(Photos by Aric Olson)

W E S T E R N C O L O R A D O U N I V E R S I T Y M U S I C & GUNNISON BANK

 

   and

     

 

 

2nd Annual Fundraiser

SATURDAY, DECEMBER 9 TH

 

HOLIDAY HOR D’OEUVRES SILENT AUCTION HOLIDAY MUSIC

QUIGLEY HALL

 

ONLINE GIVING:

WESTERNUP.ORG/MUSIC

Food, Fun and Silent Auction begin at 5:00 Concert starts at 6:30

/MUSICATWCU MUSICATWCU @MUSICATWCU

Chad W. Zummach

Executive Vice President 970.641.0320 ext. 1215

czummach@gunnisonban NMLS 1611450