Gunnison Country Times, January 30, 2025 by Alan Wartes Media

CBMR lift workers consider a strike

Negotiations this week went well, union says

Abby Harrison Times Staff Writer

Mariel Wiley Times Photo Editor

Vail Resorts faces the possibility of another labor strike after settling with ski patrollers in Park City, Utah earlier this month — this time, from a group of employees at Crested Butte Mountain Resort (CBMR).

The Crested Butte Lift Maintenance Union, composed of 12 lift maintenance technicians,

NEWS: Kattnig faces 10 counts of sex assault, A3

COMMUNITY: Fat Tire treadmarks lead home, B1

SPORTS: GHS girls basketball wins three in a row, B4

OBITUARIES A2

OPINION A4

CLASSIFIEDS A15-A17

SPORTS B4

School district responds to anonymous letter

Ackowledges ‘improper’ disposal of vehicles; policy change

Abby Harrison Times Staff Writer

The Gunnison Watershed School District has asserted that its employees did not embezzle money from the district or violate its own policies, in response to an anonymous writer who sent letters across the community alleging various crimes had been committed.

The 23-page letter, which the author did not sign, accused Transportation Director Paul Morgan of embezzling money from taxpayers through improper disposal of district vehicles, and violating other board policies concerning accounting and inventory management. The district identified Morgan in a formal response to the school board. The anonymous letter, sent to school board members and administrators, political leaders within the community and both newspapers, also accused Superintendent Leslie Nichols and Finance Director Tia Mills of allowing these issues to persist.

In the district’s response,

Flight, bus service in valley continue to expand

Board discusses ‘off-kilter’ relationship with Vail Resorts

Bella Biondini Times Editor

Additional flights from United Airlines and a seconddaily bus route to Denver means residents will have more options when they make travel plans this year.

If the airlines stick to their plans, the Gunnison-Crested Butte Regional Airport (GUC) will offer at least two flights a day out of the valley year-round, even during the shoulder sea-

sons, for the first time. This February, residents will also gain access to Bustang service twice daily to Denver. Bustang is operated by the Colorado Department of Transportation (CDOT). Its “Outrider” bus service moves passengers across the Western Slope with routes that run between the mountain towns of Crested Butte, Telluride and Durango.

While the Rural Transportation Authority (RTA) is subsidizing the extra Bustang service with the help of Chaffee County, the added flights are the result of a growing passenger base. Keeping the boosted service in the spring and fall when the flow of tourists slows down will depend on full airRTA briefs A12

Nathan Rodekuhr, Chris Hebert, Rob Alexander and Timothy Sisk, all current or former employees of Crested Butte Mountain Resort, picketed at the Crested Butte 4-Way on the morning of Jan. 24. The group braved the cold to show solidarity with the Crested Butte Lift Maintenance Union, who are in contract negotiations with Vail Resorts. (Photo by Mariel Wiley)

“Skiing both sides of the Continental Divide is super exciting to me as a European. It’s like we’re skiing both sides of the world.”

— Eva Egbert, Monarch Mountain See story on A18

Sawtooth phase two applications open

Applications for the second phase of Gunnison County’s Sawtooth affordable housing development are now open. The apartments will be ready for occupancy in March and consist of 32 studio, one-bedroom and two-bedroom units. Applications are open now through 5 p.m. on Feb. 11.

The Gunnison Valley Regional Housing Authority will host an information night at the Fred Field Center from 5-7 p.m. on Jan. 30. More information can be found at gvrha.org Gunnison Valley may see decrease in federal funding

On Jan. 28, the Trump administration announced it would pause all federal grants and loans. U.S. District Judge Loren AliKhan temporarily halted the effort, but confusion and concern persists about which funds will be affected.

In the Gunnison Valley, the freeze could prove perilous for the many government departments and nonprofits up and down the valley that rely on these grants to function. It remains unclear how state pass-throughs (money states dole out on behalf of the federal government) will be affected. For example, Gunnison County received over $23 million in federal dollars through 2024 and 2025, much of that from state pass-throughs. The City of Gunnison currently has about $4 million dollars in pending federal grant funds that support infrastructure improvements. Nonprofits like Gunnison Valley Mentors, the Gunnison Country Food Pantry, Rocky Mountain Biological Laboratory and many more receive federal dollars.

Correction

The story titled “City addresses immigration amidst community fear” in the Jan. 23 edition of the Times incorrectly stated that Marketa Zubkova works for the Hispanic Affairs Project. The Times apologizes for any confusion.

L. Richard (Dick) Bratton

L. Richard (Dick) Bratton passed away on Jan. 28, 2025. A full obituary will follow next week.

Roy H. Kastning

The circle of family and friends of Roy H. Kastning wishes to belatedly announce his passing. Born July 24, 1946, Roy left us on Sept. 8, 2024. He is survived by his brother Jeff and adopted children Andrew and Amelie Kastning/Barry, plus four “adopted” grandchildren. Roy left an incredible and varied legacy with many amazing chapters. Son of decorated WWII Army Air Corps serviceman Robert Kastning and mother Evelyn Kastning (Ficklin) of pioneer Delta County families, he was born at Fitzsimmons Hospital in Denver and spent his early childhood as a military brat in

BIRTHS

Texas and Portland, Oregon. He graduated from George Washington High School in Denver while his dad taught aerial photography at Lowry Air Force Base. Photography would be the recurring theme throughout his life. He graduated from Colorado State University in 1968 with a degree in wildlife biology. One of his closest friends and fellow wildlife majors, John Ellenberger, was responsible for Roy’s connections to Gunnison County, where John served as a Division of Wildlife biologist. With the generous GI bill rules of the time, he moved to Gunnison where he got the equivalent of a second degree from Western State College in art in 1972 after serving as an Air Force photo reconnaissance technician in Vietnam. In classic Roy fashion, he formed close friendships with several WSC professors and his mentors, primarily Lee Johnson, Dale Enquist, Harry Heil and Don Radovich.

In a story often repeated, Roy fell in love with the Elk Mountains and the community of Gunnison County and remained connected for the next 50 years. After starting a very small photo business in Boulder, he convinced his cousin Bill Kastning to move to Gunnison County where they

sured 19 inches at birth. He has an older brother named Owen who is 3 ½ years old. His grandparents include Ned and Lucinda Stoll from Larchment, New York and Skip and Lois Tucker of Santa Fe, New Mexico. His great grandparents are Anita Wanner of Naples, Florida and Carolyn Stoll of Sarasota, Florida.

added onto a historic residence at 208 W. New York Ave. creating a photography lab, dark room and studio facilities that also supported his parents’ very successful portrait photography business in Delta County. In Gunnison, the business did many high school senior and family portraits, weddings and more while also doing custom film and photography lab work for the public. Alas, the economic downturn of the early 80’s forced a downsize and move to Crested Butte. Clients included Crested Butte Mountain Resort, Duane Vandenbusche, and families throughout both ends of the valley. In 1988, Roy and Bill ended their partnership to both pursue work in the construction industry, with Roy morphing his artistic talents into a career in construction design work using his parents’ home as his office. He was a pioneer of computer generated drafting of plans and developed a symbiotic relationship with Williams Engineering in Gunnison. His hands-on knowledge building his own structures plus partnering with good friends who were carpenters and construction contractors in both Gunnison and Crested Butte helped him generate plans that every contractor appreciated greatly. In the last chapter of Roy’s life

UNDERCONTRACT

he partnered mostly with Eric Kowal designing homes in Gunnison. While doing all this design work, Roy continued to create beautiful artwork at his offices near Cedaredge. Roy’s enduring legacy in our community included an amazing variety of friendship from every conceivable part of our county … many of them quite close. His greatest love was camping in the mountains and deserts of Colorado and Utah as well as attending as many music concerts as he could with this same group of friends, mostly in Telluride. Everyone loved him and his quick comeback humor. Every contractor and client became a good friend to his detriment as he never charged the fee he deserved for the quality of work he delivered. Roy! … We will see you “down the road” but meanwhile we will all miss you greatly.

Joanne Reitinger

Joanne Reitinger passed away peacefully on Jan. 25, 2025 in Longmont, Colorado. A full obituary will follow at a later date, with service(s) to be held in Gunnison sometime this coming summer.

sured 20 inches at birth. His grandparents include Dennise and Guy Geiger from Statesville, North Carolina, Sabrina Cunniff and Joshua Pope of Watauga, Texas. His great grandparents are Patricia and Steve Morgan of Statesville, North Carolina, Dorothy Cook and Jerry Cunniff of Fortworth, Texas, Carol and Richard Pope also of Fortworth and Darryl Giliberti (deceased) and Vera Malato (deceased).

Caleb Stoll Tucker

On December 20 at 5:10 a.m.

Caleb Stoll Tucker was born to parents Sarah Stoll and Seth Tucker of Crested Butte. He weighed 7 lbs. 10 oz. and mea-

Cain Lee Geiger

On December 17 at 9:18 a.m.

Cain Lee Geiger was born to parents Rhiannon Geiger and Nathan Geiger of Gunnison. He weighed 6 lbs. 9 oz. and mea -

Former GHS teacher faces 10 counts of sexual assault

Preliminary hearing set for Feb. 21

Abby Harrison Times Staff Writer

Former Gunnison High School math teacher and basketball coach Thomas Kattnig now faces ten felony charges of sexual assault on a child from someone in a position of trust, and two misdemeanor charges of harassment.

Kattnig worked in the Gunnison Watershed School District for nearly 30 years. Last summer, he was charged with a felony count of “sexual assault on a child by one in a position of trust” in late May. At the time of his arrest, he’d already been placed on leave by the district for nearly six months, following a report from a student that they may have been touched inappropriately. (For more on Kattnig’s arrest, see the June 6, 2024 edition of the Times). Soon after the charge came down from the Gunnison District Attorney’s Office, Kattnig resigned.

The charge was based on a student’s testimony that Kattnig inappropriately touched them on a bus on the way to an away basketball game in Cedaredge in late 2021, according to the arrest affidavit. This is also why the case is being handled in Delta District Court, and was investigated by law enforcement officers in both counties.

The District Attorney’s office submitted a second and third amended complaint over the next six months, in which the number of charges grew to seven, and then 12. Kattnig now faces ten felony charges of sexual assault on a child, all includ-

ing the designation of being perpetrated by one in position of trust. Several charges add language specifying a pattern of abuse, or that the alleged victim is less than 15 years old. Court records suggest that the charges are related to five separate alleged victims.

“The Gunnison Watershed School District added — and made mandatory — adult sexual misconduct training for all staff, conducted this year by Colorado School Safety Resource Center.”

Kattnig appeared in Delta District Court several times over the last six months for the purpose of entering a plea. At each hearing, either Kattnig's defense counsel Daniel Shaffer or Deputy District Attorney Brannon Jordan requested more time to review the charges and negotiate. Jordan said the DA’s office offered one plea agreement, but Kattnig and his lawyer refused it. At a hearing on Jan. 27, Kattning did not enter a plea and the case was continued to a preliminary hearing on Feb. 21, from 1-5 p.m. A preliminary hearing allows the court to determine if prosecutors have enough evidence for probable cause, and

to proceed to trial.

The school district conducted its own investigation prior to Kattnig’s formal arrest, which ended in April. Since then, the district has not received any further formal complaints that prompted investigation, Superintendent Leslie Nichols told the Times . The district is continuing to cooperate with law enforcement as necessary, she said.

Since Kattnig’s arrest, the district has initiated more sexual assault awareness training for its staff, Nichols said. The district already requires annual mandatory reporter training, which will continue. It added — and made mandatory — adult sexual misconduct training for all staff, conducted this year by Colorado School Safety Resource Center.

The administration is also designing improved training around harassment and discrimination, which includes sex-based harassment. This is meant to bolster teachers’ ability to recognize various forms of these behaviors early, and prevent them from continuing.

In district health education classes, students learn to differentiate between safe and unsafe touch, and what consent is. They also have access to Safe2Tell, an anonymous online reporting platform where they can share concerns about harassment, suicide, bullying, threats made against the school and more.

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

970.641.1414

Publisher/Owner Alan Wartes publisher@gunnisontimes.com

Editor Bella Biondini bella@gunnisontimes.com

Staff Writer Abby Harrison abby@gunnisontimes.com

Photo Editor Mariel Wiley mariel@gunnisontimes.com

Sports Editor Alex McCrindle alex@gunnisontimes.com

Advertising Manager Steve Nunn steve@gunnisontimes.com

Advertising Assistant Bobbie Corn bobbie@gunnisontimes.com

Production Manager Issa Forrest issa@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:

OPINION

A look over the horizon in 2025

2025 is a month old now and one thing has already become clear: This is going to be a busy and challenging year. I admit, that’s probably putting it too mildly, but it can’t hurt to start there and save the more colorful descriptions for later when we have the benefit of hindsight.

With this in mind we recently held an overnight Gunnison Country Times staff retreat at Waunita Hot Springs. That was a good choice. The waters, the delicious food, the inviting spaces for relaxation and reflection — not to mention the pitch-perfect Pringle family hospitality — all formed exactly the right setting for taking stock of where we’ve been as a hometown newspaper and for taking aim at what lies ahead.

with high standards of accuracy and integrity. No one in the group complained about that, but it was nice to set aside some time to purposely acknowledge it and renew our commitment to each other through it all.

That led naturally to a discussion about the 2025 stories that are poised to put us — and the community as a whole — to the test. On top of perennial local issues like housing, economic development, water, sustainable tourism and more, this year will also see a number of “big picture” developments that are more likely than usual to make themselves felt closer to home. It’s not always the case that a change in the White House holds so much potential for change for average Americans. It helps when we can see that coming and reaffirm that we’re all in this together.

Here are some of the national news items I see on our community’s horizon:

and easy answers will be hard to come by.

• COVID. This is likely to be the year when emerging data about the true cost of our response to the pandemic will become impossible to ignore. In particular, we’ll find it harder and harder to look away from mounting evidence that the COVID vaccine has caused serious injury and death to large numbers of people. All over the world, researchers and policy makers alike are sounding the alarm in the hope of stemming the damage being done, but also to acknowledge the injured and find solutions to their need for care. That becomes a local issue once we begin to ask: Who among us falls into that category? What can be done to help them? As painful and contentious as that conversation may be, it is one we will be following in 2025.

• Energy development. Traditionally, only a small portion of northern Gunnison County has been subject to oil and gas exploration and development. But those areas could come under renewed scrutiny under the Trump administration’s commitment to energy independence. In addition, what might that mean for coal extraction at the only remaining mine in the county? We’ll keep our eyes open.

• The economy. On this subject, we could see movement in either direction due to President Trump’s policies. Will inflation and interest rates ease up, as hoped? Or will tariffs backfire and make matters worse? At the Times , we’ll pay attention to local indicators and report on trends that matter to the community.

9 a.m. - 4 p.m. Monday through Friday 2025 Member

Much of the conversation included the personal, even intimate, affirmation of why we each choose to belong to such a difficult and marginally rewarding (financially, at least) profession. It’s a lift to cover so many stories week in and week out,

LETTERS

Random act of kindness

Editor:

LETTERS POLICY

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.

Thank goodness for small and random acts of kindness. They especially can help during this dang cold snap, which can turn even the routine chores into … well, at least bigger chores and occasionally more.

Tuesday afternoon I decided to see if my old, beat-up pick-up would start, since it hadn’t the previous two times I’d tried it. It surprised me and did, albeit quite reluctantly, so I proceeded to putter downtown to take care of errands. (I know, I know, some might ask: Getting too cold for your trusty townie, Dickey? To which I answer, “Darn right I’m getting soft and am indeed in jeopardy of being one of those weeds that winters like this can blow right out of town.”)

I’m no mechanic. But I think my truck — a ’92 F-150 that my son dubbed many years ago, and appropriately, in my view, “Cowboy,” — has eight cylinders. It sounded like maybe two of them were firing as we puttered up Main Street and stopped at the light at Virginia. As fate or good fortune or both would have it, we were in sight of Stephanie and Ryan

• Immigration. As we’ve already begun reporting, Trump administration policy changes are very likely to have a visible effect here at home. Even on a local scale, the challenge we face is no less daunting than what confronts us as a nation — how to restore the meaning of the word “illegal” in the context of immigration without sacrificing compassion and the collective commitment to honoring our shared humanity. This is advanced work for any society

Dawes’ Toggery Elevated store when Cowboy just up and died. Right in the middle of Main Street.

I get out, begin waving already cold-and-cranky motorists around my stranded steed when out runs Stephanie to the rescue. With either a superwoman-like strength that surely runs in the family (Eastmans), or perhaps with the aid from ice-rink like street conditions and just a touch of gravity, Stephanie singlehandedly pushes Cowboy through the intersection while I steer it to a waiting parking spot (plenty of those on these January days) on Virginia Ave. I think the temperature had warmed up to 8-below at this point.

Crises averted, I high-five Stephanie in thanks, politely decline her offer to step inside for cocoa and cookies (not really, but you get the drift) and tell Ryan, who had finally layered up sufficiently enough to step outside, that his wife had already taken care of the situation.

There’s nothing like a little collective misery — such as days, weeks, (months?) of bitterly cold temps — to bring people to the “I guess we really are in this thing together” mindset.

• Education. Many of President Trump’s planned initiatives have the potential to trigger immediate changes in federal education policy. That could then create implementation challenges for Western Colorado University and the Gunnison Watershed School District. How will those changes manifest themselves in the classroom? Will they involve funding disruptions? These are just a few of the important questions that will need answers in the months ahead.

That’s just the short list of things that are easy to anticipate. Chances are, the list will grow over the year to include things we didn’t foresee. In any case, in Gunnison we have a clear advantage as we look ahead. First, we have you, citizens who care enough to engage and work hard to make our community the best it can be. And, unlike many towns across America, we still have a homegrown newspaper dedicated to helping with that.

(Alan Wartes can be contacted at 970.641.1414 or publisher@gunnisontimes.com.)

And if you think this example is illustrative, it doesn’t even begin to touch on the kindness and support my wife, Kirsten, has received since breaking her arm in one of Gunnison’s rash of slipping-on-the-ice situations.

And, fret not. Cowboy eventually fired up again and, after warming up for about an hour, began purring like a kitten. Ok, maybe a geriatric kitten with lungs that sound like it has had a lifelong affinity for cheap cigars, but running nonetheless. Cold-induced inconveniences? Bring ‘em on. With a little help from our friends, there’s not much we can’t handle.

Chris Dickey Gunnison

Regarding "City

addresses immigration amidst community fear"

Editor: It's rather ironic as I type this letter to have just read that Federal agents recently rounded up dozens of Venezuelan Tren de Aragua gang members in an overnight raid in north Denver. The raid gathered up cash, guns and drugs. Drugs such as "Tusi"

or "pink cocaine," that the gang distributes throughout the U.S., poisoning our people.

For those who wish to not cooperate with federal authorities on rounding up and deporting people from all over the world who have broken our immigration laws and those who have done far worse, know that you are aiding and abetting in an unlawful manner if you obstruct a federal officer in enforcing the law.

As to the "refugee" apologists who have expressed their opinions on these pages, I suggest that you look up "applying for refugee status in the U.S." before writing anything further concerning the 20 million or so who have poured over our so-called border these four long years.

We Americans are a generous and forgiving people (some say we have a bad memory), but we have laws in which millions of people have broken, and the current administration is trying to correct that by enforcing those laws.

Jon Matuszczak Gunnison

Alan Wartes Times Publisher

New board member at GHA

Editor: The Gunnison Home Association would like to welcome Stuart Schneider as a new board member. The Gunnison Home Association is a group of volunteers that have a heart for the seniors in the Gunnison community. The GHA was established in 1973. The mission of the GHA is to assist in the provision of basic needs and amenities to seniors in the Gunnison Valley. The GHA built the Senior Health Care Center, the Willows Assisted Living Facility and the Palisades Senior RV Park. So far in 2025, GHA has given $129,000 to the senior community in donations and grants. The GHA will be accepting grant applications again in September.

Don Crosby, Sharon Mills, Linda Rees, Rogene McKiernan, Polly Oberosler and Debbie McVey Gunnison Home Association

Liquor store legislation

Editor:

This bipartisan bill, SB25 -33, is critical to Colorado’s 1,600 local, family-owned liquor stores. It is relevant to the 430 members of the Colorado Brewers Guild, craft wine and spirit makers, small to medium alcohol wholesalers, local

chambers of commerce and community groups from across Colorado.

Forty to 50% percent of state local liquor stores are in jeopardy of going out of business, the majority of which are minority- or women-owned businesses with deep community roots. This economic collapse will devastate our craft alcohol industry, negatively impact local economies and communities, commercial real estate and nonprofits. It would leave Coloradans with little choice other than to buy national brand alcohol from meganational retailers at prices they dictate due to the lack of competition from local stores.

SB25 -33 will:

• Help Colorado’s local, mom and pop, independent liquor stores compete fairly and restore much-needed competition in the retail alcohol industry, The bill stops the issuance of new liquor-licensed drugstore licenses (LLDS) to national grocery chains and big box stores. All current chain LLDS’s selling “hard alcohol” will be “grandfathered-in” and renewed.

• Maintain the most critical sales channel for Colorado’s craft beer, wine and spirits that are almost exclusively sold by local independent liquor stores, since national chain grocers and big box stores sell mass-produced, national brands of beer, wine and spirits. Independent liquor stores and craft alcohol industry have worked together to market, sell

Perfect pitches

and grow small craft alcohol businesses and have created some of the state’s most iconic and successful craft brands.

• Protect public safety and decrease underage access to alcohol by ensuring that hard alcohol, often sold in small, easily concealable bottles, is not available in the majority of grocery and big-box retailers that casually display and sell these regulated and controlled substances across the entire store, where youth commonly shop.

• Honor the will of the voters and update Colorado liquor law to reflect the new reality of the alcohol marketplace since Nov. 2022 when voters rejected “chain liquor stores” (Prop. 124) by 62% and passed Prop. 125 to allow wine in all grocery and convenience stores. Voters have not been in favor of allowing hard alcohol to be sold in grocery chains and big-box retailers. Polling suggests that voters strongly oppose the sale of hard alcohol via grocery chains and big box retailers.

Peter Cook Gunnison

The Crested Butte Creative District hosted a grantwriting workshop for local artists at the Crested Butte Center for the Arts on Jan. 22. Led by experienced grantwriter Maryo Ewell, the group learned the do’s and don’t’s of how to fund their creative projects by applying for grants.

(Photo by Mariel Wiley)

passed a strike “authorization” vote on Jan. 20 with an overwhelming majority. An authorization vote precedes the actual decision whether to strike. In press releases and interviews, members cited low pay despite the physically demanding and hazardous nature of the job, alongside high worker turnover. Lift mechanics are tasked with keeping the chairs spinning, and make on-the-spot repairs to keep skiers safe multiple times per day.

The union had a threehour negotiation with Vail on Monday, Jan. 27, which “went well,” according to union president Thomas Pearman. Pearman has worked with CBMR for four years, three of those as a lift mechanic.

“We definitely turned the page. Vail came to the table ready for a bargain,” Pearman told the Times. “We think that's largely due to our strike authorization vote and the outpouring of support we've got from the community with our petition and our strike fund.”

Vail Resorts is a publicly-traded mountain resort company valued at nearly $7 billion dollars. According to SEC filings, the company brings in hundreds of millions of dollars a year in profit from the 42 mountain resorts it owns in four countries, including CBMR.

Vail is working toward an agreement with the union and agreed the bargaining session this week was a step forward, CBMR Communications Manager Katie Lyons wrote in an email to the Times. If the union chooses to strike, CBMR will remain open, she added.

CBMR’s lift mechanics unionized in June of 2023, and are represented by the United Mountain Workers (UMW), a branch of the Communication Workers of America (CWA) AFLCIO Local 7781. Crested Butte Ski Patrol, also represented by United Mountain Workers, is currently under contract with Vail set to expire next November.

At the start of last year, the mechanic’s union entered negotiations with Vail, requesting higher wages and a variety of other benefits like merit increases, stipends for work gear and more professional development, Pearman said. Lift technicians at CBMR currently make $21 an hour, and are asking for $23. But the union did not receive a formal reply for over nine months, Pearman said. At that point, the workers were offered the same wages they currently receive.

“We're in an era where most large companies are intentionally harsh on organized labor … It took seven or eight months to pass a wage counter back to the lift mechanics, which is directly intended to make the union tired and burned out, and is pretty classic bad faith bargaining," said United Mountain Workers president Max Magill.

Vail provides workers with uniforms and a boot stipend, but does not provide any money for skis or a snowboard, which mechanics use to get around the mountain to make repairs,

Pearman said. Lift mechanic Rob Alexander said he has not received a raise in two years, and promotions within the crew have been a fight with Vail. Alexander has been a CBMR employee for ten years, and a part of the lift maintenance crew since 2019.

“It makes it more difficult to show up every day when I know I’m making the same money I was two years ago. And the negotiations aren’t really progressing, which has an effect on everyone’s personal mental health,” Alexander said.

Lyons wrote that bargaining with new unions takes time.

“As this is a first-time contract with a new unionized group, there are more topics to discuss and work through as we build the contract from scratch,” she wrote. “New contracts simply take more time, and we have a long history of reaching agreements with unionized employee groups.”

Last Friday morning, a cacophony of honks and cheers broke through the usual quiet that blankets the town of Crested Butte. Drivers, including a Rural Transportation Authority bus driver, rolling through the 4-Way Stop laid on their horns and others pumped fists out of car windows in support of a group of union picketers on the streetcorner.

The picketers, all current or former staff members of CBMR’s lift maintenance department, held signs that read “CBLM needs living wages” and “Honk for CBLM.” Locals stopped by on their way to work to supply the picketers with baked goods, and an employee from local restaurant, McGill’s, arrived with mugs of hot chocolate.

“We just want to be able to do more than just love our jobs,” said Nathan Rodekuhr, a CBMR lift mechanic for almost two years. “We want to be paid fairly. We want better training. We want to keep people working at lift maintenance to build the skillset that’s required to run the mountain. I want to build a career out of this job and have a future with the mountain that I love.”

In the last several years, many mechanics who had clocked 15-20 years on the crew left, taking over a century’s-worth of collective experience with them, Pearman said. The area’s oldest lift was installed in 1983. The mountain has four brands of lifts, meaning the types of repairs made on each varies widely. Lift technicians are also required to keep pace with upgrades in lift technology from major manufacturers.

The demanding and technical nature of lift maintenance, coupled with the hazardous conditions, has pushed many off the mountain and into jobs with a safer work environment and better pay, Pearman said. Mechanics work 40-50 feet in the air, in specialized baskets, traveling tower to tower to install heavy equipment. They’re out before the sun, in the bitter cold, with ski patrol making sure the lifts are running even in avalanche terrain.

“If the lift were to turn on or something was energized when we're in the positions that we're in, we could be seri-

ously harmed,” Pearman said. “It requires a lot of trust from the other people that things are being done right.”

Unlike seasonal CBMR employees, mechanics work year-round. In summer months, the crews are some of the only people on the snowless swaths of mountain. They take the lifts apart to clean and inspect them, moving hundreds of pounds of metal, before stringing the chairs back on the line between the two terminals.

As of Jan. 27, of the eight open positions posted on CMBR’s job site, five were maintenance-related jobs, including a lift electrician and an experienced maintenance technician. Usually, the crew employs three electricians, but currently only has one, Pearman said. This means mechanics are often expected to learn the electrical workings of the machines, but aren’t compensated for this extra knowledge and labor. The work of a lift technician is

highly-skilled mechanical and electric work, requiring either formal certification or an apprenticeship. Colorado is home to one of the country’s only universitylevel programs that offers formal coursework for lift mechanics, as part of a larger associates degree. In the Colorado Mountain College (CMC) Skilled Crafts & Trades department, students learn all aspects of multiple departments such as ski patrol,

Passersby supplied the group with baked goods.

A valley resident delivered hot chocolate from McGill’s to the picketers.

lift maintenance, snowmaking and grooming.

More negotiation troubles

The strike authorization makes the maintenance crew the second group of Vail workers in recent months to consider strike as a negotiating tool. Park City ski patrollers were on strike from Dec. 27 to Jan. 8.

Like the CBMR lift technicians, workers requested a wage increase, better benefits and working conditions. Another cache of Vail-employed ski patrollers at Keystone Resorts are also in contract negotiations. Citing slow response from Vail and issues in the terms of the new contract, they staged a “collective walk-in,” in December, according to reporting in the Summit Daily News. This is a less disruptive form of protest meant to get management’s attention.

Strikes could prove costly for Vail, not simply in the possibility of closing resorts during the high season, but in legal fees. On Jan. 9, Park City skier and Illinois resident Christopher Bisaillon filed a class action lawsuit in the United States District Court of Utah alleging that Vail deceived hundreds of thousands of consumers when it failed to disclose that the union was on strike; it was called an “epic failure and intentional deceit.” The complaint describes three-hour long lines for access to less than 20% of the resort’s terrain.

The lawsuit may be the first time in history that a ski resort is being held to task by ticket holders over a strike. The argument alleges that the public was harmed by the lack of transparency, while Vail “continued to collect tens of millions of dollars” from the same

skiers. Since the lawsuit was filed, Vail has promised to discount next year’s passes for the skiers affected by the strike, according to reporting from KPCW in Utah.

For one of Vails’ shareholders, Late Apex Partners (for which Vail is its largest position), it’s too little too late. Just a week after the strike authorization, Late Apex publicly called for an overhaul of the board and the resignation of CEO Kirsten Lynch, CFO Angela Korch and executive chairman Rob Katz.

The company’s “poor judgement” and the lack of accountability for managers have not only put shareholders at risk, but damaged the company’s reputation immensely, Late Apex stated in a Jan. 27 letter sent to Vail’s board of directors. In a nearly 100-slide powerpoint, the firm highlighted Vail’s negotiations with unionized ski patrollers (including Crested Butte Ski Patrol) calling the strike in Park City "disastrous."

“The core skiing community has labeled Vail the ‘Evil Empire,’ … Lynch and Korch are principally responsible for recent value destruction. Having demonstrated zero control over the business, their names have become toxic to employees, guests, and investors,” the letter read.

When Park City ski patrol went on strike, several patrollers from CBMR, and other Vail resorts across the West, were called to work in Utah to keep the chairs spinning while local workers refused to cross the picket line. However, if lift maintenance goes on strike, filling the gaps might prove impossible as the required technical knowledge is so specific.

“If we were to go on strike, the company [Vail] said they would bring in folks from other resorts. But in the end, the more time you spend with these machines, the

better you are at getting them going,” Alexander said. Ultimately, the goal for both parties is to avoid a strike, as the repercussions in rural, tight-knit resort towns tend to reverberate through the community, Magill said. United Mountain Workers represents ski patrollers across the Mountain West — in Purgatory, Solitude, Telluride and the Arapahoe Basin — and one other lift maintenance team at Park City. According to Magill, UMW is the only ski workers union in the country representing lift mechanics.

“Everybody suffers,” Magill said. “These ski communities are small and closely knit, and that does not exclude local management at our ski resorts, or other departments … I went on strike and it was heartbreaking. I cried my eyes out to leave some of my best friends in the locker room who the union can't protect to walk off a job … It just hurts everybody involved, and we don't want to have to play this card that shouldn't have to be played.”

The CBMR lift mechanics union also started a strike fund on GoFundMe, meant to cover lost wages if the union decides to go on strike. So far, donations have ranged from a few dollars to $1,000, many from anonymous donors. As of Jan. 29, the fund had raised over $11,000.

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

(Mariel Wiley can be contacted at 970.641.1414 or mariel@gunnisontimes.com.)

The City Center

Your local government’s weekly community ad. (970) 641-8080

City

“The City Center” Runs Every Week! We want to know

How often do you look at or read the ad?

Do you seek out the ad or come across it and stop?

Does “The City Center” help you hear about and understand City news and announcements?

What version of “The City Center” do you read?

(In-print, on social media, shown by someone else, other )

Do you know when and where City Council meetings happen because of “The City Center”?

What do you wish was announced in “The City Center” that you have not seen or heard about?

How likely are you to keep looking for and reading “The City Center”?

Respond to the Communications Assistant: Digital Survey at gunnisonco.gov/CityCenter (970) 641-8141 or eyoung@gunnisonco.gov

Stop by the City Hall Clerk’s Office to share!

area, adorned with cherry cabinets and equipped with state-of-the-art stainless steel appliances. The tiled shower and bathtub add a touch of luxury to the bathrooms, while the master bedroom boasts its own oasis with a reading nook or small office space. The 2-car detached garage features 8-foot doors and 10-foot ceilings inside, providing ample space for your vehicles and storage needs. The extra space above the garage, accessible via exterior stairs, presents exciting opportunities. Whether you need additional storage or dream of an ADU (Accessory Dwelling Unit), the potential is yours to explore with City of Gunnison approval. Don’t miss the chance to make this new construction your forever home. Contact us now to schedule a viewing and witness the epitome of contemporary living!

TBD W Denver Ave. MLS# 816647 $599,000 Spectacular 2.5 acre level lot located in Gunnison’s new subdivision Elk Ranch. This parcel is located just outside City limits on the west side of town and seller has it set up to be built on immediately. Lot has a well permit already in place along with the required approval for well from the Upper Gunnison Water Conservancy District which can be transferred at closing. Buyer of lot may also pay for tap fees to hook into the City water and sewer main that will be extended north by City this fall. There is a shared road/driveway into the subdivision and it will be completed by this fall as well. Lot has been surveyed and a building envelope has been established for a single family residence but other dwellings such as barns/sheds etc. will be allowed. Come enjoy some country living with incredible views of mountains up Ohio Valley and the Palisades while being so close to town.

457 Ute Dr. (Arrowhead) MLS# 820145 $40,000 Beautiful, secluded 1 acre lot located on the north edge of the Arrowhead subdivision off of the main road. Bring your RV or plan to build your private mountain retreat on this sloped, nicely treed lot with plenty of wildflowers and wildlife to be seen. This subdivision is quaint community located on the Alpine Plateau Road and has quick access to the Arrowhead Lodge where you can enjoy food and drink on their outdoor patio along with occasional live music. Come discover what living in the Rockies is all about! 2 Ridge Lane MLS# 817530 $330,000

Wise words

Each year, the Gunnison Rotary Club distributes free dictionaries to Gunnison Community School third grade students. Rotarians visited five classrooms on Jan. 24 to hand out copies of the Scholastic Children’s Dictionary. The students will use their new dictionaries as references for schoolwork and to strengthen their reading comprehension skills.

Fossils with friends

Hundreds of millions of years of earth’s history came to life during a community rock and fossil identification event at the Gunnison County Library on Jan. 25. Western Colorado University geology professor Ryan King started the afternoon with a presentation about trace fossils, which serve as geological records of the activities of past organisms. Trace fossils can include footprints, burrows and nests. After the presentation, geologists helped attendees identify rocks, minerals and fossils.

(Courtesy Lauren Kugler/Gunnison Rotary Club)

(Photos by Evan Bjornstad)

Bustang adds second daily Crested Butte route

Discontinuing Telluride-Grand Junction route

The Colorado Department of Transportation's Bustang Outrider is updating its service schedule next month, including adding a second daily round trip on its Crested Butte to Denver route. Adding another trip will provide passengers with another option on Outrider’s busiest route.

“Our Crested Butte to Denver route is consistently one of Outrider’s most popular, averaging nearly 800 passengers every month,” said Paul DesRocher, director of CDOT’s Division of Transit and Rail. “After carefully assessing the needs of our riders, and coordinating with our statewide partners, we determined that adding another roundtrip was essential if we were going to provide passengers with the best service possible.”

The partnership includes funding from Gunnison and Chaffee counties, with each one providing an annual cash match, allowing for the second round trip.

“We are excited to see the expansion of service between our valley and the rest of the state,” said Scott Truex, executive director of the Gunnison Valley Rural Transportation Authority. “This service will provide better connections across the statewide rural transit system and enough capacity to meet the needs of passengers along the route. We are grateful for CDOT and Chaffee County’s efforts to improve this service and look forward to our continued partnership.”

"After hearing from several constituents who were unable to use the Bustang service because buses were already full by the time they reached our local stops, we contacted CDOT about possibly expanding the Outrider service in Chaffee County. That led to an agreement to expand the service,” said Chaffee County Commissioner Gina Lucrezi. “Chaffee County is committed to continued advocacy for expanded local and regional transit for our community members and visitors and we are grateful to CDOT for their responsiveness to our region's transit needs."

Another service change is the discontinuation of the Telluride-Grand Junction

route due to low passenger usage. However, daily service continues along the same route via the DurangoGrand Junction line, which stops in the same cities and towns previously served by the TellurideGrand Junction route. Additionally, the San Miguel Authority for Regional Transportation is starting new transit service between Montrose and Telluride on Feb. 17, 2025. SMART will be providing information on specific stops in the near future.

NEW BUS SCHEDULE STARTS FEB. 1

EASTBOUND:

• Departs Crested Butte at 5:15 a.m. and arrives at Denver Union Station at 11:10 a.m.

• Departs Crested Butte at 1:15 p.m. and arrives at Denver Union Station at 7 p.m.

WESTBOUND:

• Departs Denver Union Station at 6:30 a.m. and arrives at Crested Butte at 12:30 p.m.

• Departs Denver Union Station at 1:45 p.m. and arrives at Crested Butte at 7:35 p.m.

(Source: Colorado Department of Transportation)

CUTE AS CAN BE fully remodeled, move-in ready, Dos Rios condo on the main level with a deck that overlooks the golf course and seasonal pond. 1 bedroom/ 1 bath, 680 square foot unit makes it easy to enjoy the Gunnison summer’s and lock and leave as needed. Tons of built-in storage,new flooring, new stainless steel appliances, electric heat and an electric fireplace! Great year-round opportunity in the Valley as well. Sharedlaundry facility next door. Enjoy cross country skiing right out your door!

113 Shavano Dr. Unit 110 C

$229,000

BEAUTIFUL QUARTZ CREEK RANCH

... with an idyllic setting, Excellent hay meadows and pastures as well as a nice ranch home, a rented mobile home, exceptional pipe corrals, large greenhouse, productive garden area, fruit and vegetable cellar, various barns, sheds and shops for outbuildings. Good deeded water rights and a very nice meandering stretch of Quartz Creek runs through the property. This is a very special 298 + acre ranch that has been loved, nurtured, maintained and improved by the same family for nearly 90 years. Call for your appointment to see the ranch and take in the expansive views, enjoy the sound of the trout stream, breathe in the fresh mountain air and imagine the tranquility of owning your very own paradise personified.

$2,950,000

For additional information and photos or your appointment go to: www.monarchrlty.com or Call Matt Robbins, 970-596-0715.

Matt Robbins, CRS, GRI Monarch Realty, Inc. 970-596-0715 • matt@monarchrlty.com

Helminski announces May departure from chamber

Led chamber through COVID, bridge closures

Chris Dickey Special to the Times

Citing that the “time is right to pass this awesome organization on to the upcoming leader,” Celeste Helminski announced that she will be stepping down as the executive director of the Gunnison Country Chamber of Commerce at the end of May.

The chamber’s board of directors is assembling a search committee to find the next executive director, according to board president Cheryl Dillard. Helminski said it was the right time for a change of leadership.

“I am excited to share my chamber knowledge and experience with the next fearless leader,” Helminski wrote in a weekly newsletter that goes out to chamber members.

Helminski began her post at the chamber in May of 2017. During her eight-year tenure, she championed Gunnisonarea businesses during the chaos and uncertainty of a global pandemic and through several years of local highway disruptions. She is perhaps most wellknown for tirelessly pounding the pavement, snapping photos of local businesses and promoting their goods and services on social media, in the Times and elsewhere.

"From putting on events to playing an instrumental role in helping Gunnison's businesses grow, we are extremely proud of and grateful for all she has accomplished during her years as executive director,” Dillard said. “Her frequent in-person visits to our business community have been crucial, in our opinion.”

In 2024, the Gunnison Country Chamber of Commerce:

• Welcomed 33 new members

• Greeted 27 new businesses, business locations or new owners

• Collaborated on seven Business After Hours events

• Coordinated four learning workshops and hosted two “coffee hours” with leaders and administrators at the City of Gunnison

• Coordinated the annual Summer Forecast event, four Mid-week on Main Street music gatherings at IOOF Park, hosted a downtown Labor Day celebration and collaborated with the city on the annual Holiday Greenback Exchange

“The silver lining of the pandemic was how relationships across the state and country were strengthened by this solidarity of challenge,” Helminski said. “The amount of resources that the Gunnison chamber can bring to our members today is amazing, diverse and abundant.”

The Gunnison chamber also owns and operates the Visitor Information Center, which saw a decrease in foot traffic last year that is attributed — much like the community’s overall lackluster tourist-based business performance — to the Hwy. 50 bridge closures that began in late April of 2024.

Local sales tax revenues last year appear to be flat. Through September, according to the

most recent data available on the city’s website, Gunnison generated $7.8 million in sales tax collections, representing a 0.2% decline from the previous year.

“Travelers did change their plans around the highway challenges,” Helminski said, adding that phone and email inquiries for visitor information already appear to be rebounding for this year.

“This promising uptick in inquiries has us hopeful that Gunnison visitation and traffic return for summer 2025 and beyond.”

This year also marks the 100th anniversary of the organization, initially forming as the Gunnison Business Association in 1881. The first mention of a Gunnison area chamber in the local newspaper appeared in 1884.

“That’s quite a history,” Helminski said. “I hope I have done my predecessors justice.”

(Chris Dickey is the former owner and publisher of the Gunnison Country Times)

Celeste Helminski (left) dances during a Music Cruise during the summer of 2024. (Photos by Mariel Wiley)

Celeste Helminksi (fifth from left) stands with a group in IOOF Park during a luminaria lighting event last month.

Nichols stated that no embezzlement has occurred, all funds from vehicle sales were received and properly accounted for and that it has received clean results from an annual third-party audit during her entire tenure. The district first became aware of a possible issue with how cars and trucks were being inventoried and disposed of in early 2024 when a district employee expressed concern. Over the course of two days, the administration investigated the issue and ended making one policy more specific to avoid confusion in the future.

“I am proud of our immediate response, our immediate implementation of appropriate processes and our continual striving to improve.”

Leslie Nichols Superintendent

Nichols further acknowledged that the way several district vehicles were disposed of was “improper” and not in line with expectations of a public entity, as some were traded for contracting services and not put out for public bid. That manner of trading vehicles for service resulted in a benefit to the dis trict, through work completed on its schools, but not to Morgan directly, Nichols wrote.

“It's full of a lot of misinfor mation, and that was a lot of the motivation for our response,” Nichols told the clear to me that it comes from a place of personal vendetta.”

Both Mills and Nichols said the anonymous nature of the let ter was frustrating, as no outside community member (exclud ing the district employee who surfaced concerns in early 2024) came to the administration regarding the matter.

“To assume it's somebody who feels that their concerns weren't addressed? There were never concerns raised. That's the frustrating part,” Mills said. “I don't think that's a valid assessment or understanding of the letter, because no one ever raised concerns for us to manage improperly.”

A mystery writer

On Tuesday, Jan. 21, the dis trict received 15 identical piec es of mail at its office at 800 N. Boulevard St. in Gunnison. These were addressed to board members and administrators, and one kitchen manager. The return address was the same as the delivery address on each.

A copy of the letter received by

the Times bore two school bus stamps and, according to postal markings, was sent from Grand Junction.

The anonymous writer accused the district of improper disposal of up to 17 vehicles, including selling some of them to Morgan’s former employees and trading them for labor to local contractors working on district projects. The content includes an introduction, emails between district employees, excerpts of board policies and grainy photos of former district vehicles that were disposed of in prior years.

Of the vehicles the letter-writer included, five were sold for cash that was properly deposited into school accounts, Nichols wrote in her response. Others were scrapped and traded for in-kind services from local contractors, for dirt work like landscaping and hauling at Gunnison Community School and Pathways. All vehicles scrapped or traded for services had reached the end of their useful lives, she wrote.

Mills was made aware of a possible issue about a year ago, when an employee emailed her regarding a concern that vehicles were being disposed of without going to a public bid. Within days of being made aware of these concerns, she verified a list of the district’s current assets, properly accounted for vehicles that were scrapped or sold and spoke with the district’s auditor regarding best practices — all before updating the district’s inventory management policy.

Mills said the district’s inventory management policy prior to early 2024 was too “vague” and the team responded by refining

Radiology Cash-Pay Pricing

Take control of your health with a ordable options for essential imaging services like MRIs, CT scans and more. No insurance? No problem. Our straightforward cash-pay prices give you the ﬂexibility to get the care you need without the ﬁnancial guesswork.

For more information or estimates: 970-641-7208

View the full price list at: WWW.GUNNISONVALLEYHEALTH.ORG/RADIOLOGY DID YOU KNOW?

¿SABÍAS QUE?

1.) Gunnison Watershed School District has 2066 students enrolled.

2.) Our school district enrollment has a 24-year average growth rate of 3%.

3.) GWSD is one of the largest employers in the Gunnison Valley, employing over 400 local team members.

Gunnisonschools.net/jobs

1.) El Distrito Escolar de Gunnison Watershed tiene 2.066 estudiantes matriculados.

2.) La matriculación en nuestro Distrito escolar tiene una tasa de crecimiento promedio del 3% en 24 años.

3.) El Distrito Escolar de Gunnison Watershed es uno de los empleadores más grandes en el valle de Gunnison, empleando a más de 400 miembros locales del equipo.

Daddy Daughter Dance

plane seats. But Bill Tomcich, the RTA airline consultant, told the Times he believes the market will continue to support these flights in the future.

Due to strong ticket bookings, United added two daily flights into the spring schedule, as well as for April and May — all on its own dime. Looking ahead, United has also added a third daily flight from Denver for the busy summer months, from late June all the way through the third week of September.

Crackpots, Crackshots & a Cannibal

Gunnison Times MERCH

“In years gone by, we talked about, ‘What's the ideal schedule: the midday turn versus the overnight flight?’” Tomcich said during an RTA meeting on Jan 10. “The optimum schedule is actually to have them both … Kudos to the community for stepping up and supporting the service, because that's what really makes it work.”

Following a busy holiday season at the airport, bookings are solid for the remainder of the winter with “double-digit” increases for each month, Tomcich said. United added a fourth-daily flight to Denver in February and March, in addition to the Saturday non-stop flight to Chicago that will start President’s Day weekend. This is the first time in almost a decade that GUC will offer direct flights to Chicago. It's an attempt to serve a growing number of Vail Resorts Epic Pass holders in the greater Chicago area. So far, the flights are 50% booked, Tomcich said.

This month, the Tourism and Prosperity Partnership (TAPP), the organization tasked with marketing the valley to visitors, doubled its spending in markets around the country as the height of ski season approached. Executive Director John Norton said TAPP continues to “overspend” in Chicago to try and fill the new flights. The goal is to request more Chicago service from United next year.

RTA is incentivizing United with a $118,000 minimum revenue guarantee (MRG), a cost the organization has to cover if airplane seats don’t fill. Norton said TAPP requested some financial help from Vail Resorts for advertising, but the company refused.

Crested Butte Mayor and RTA board member Ian Billick asked if there was a way to improve both the local marketing and transportation organizations’ relationship with Vail Resorts. Prior to the ownership change, the ski resort has historically been a strong partner on transportation, he said. In the past, the resort owners contributed millions to subsidize airline service, as these same flights carried out-of-town skiers into the valley.

“Vail is a little bit like the dragon that sits on a big pile of gold in their cave,” Billick said. “We’ve gone from a very strong partnership with them, thinking strategically and long-term, to we can't even get them to do a little bit of advertising … It seems like they're just going to push all of the liabilities and

responsibilities off onto us to advertise their business while they feed off their declining stock price. It just seems like we are fundamentally off-kilter on our relationship with the ski resort.”

It’s a relationship that has the potential to become even more strained following the weekslong ski patrol strike at Park City Mountain Resort over the holidays. Vail was unwilling to negotiate the ski patrol union's request for higher wages, resulting in long lift lines and limited open terrain. Ski patrollers from Crested Butte, Breckenridge and Keystone (all resorts owned by Vail) were temporarily assigned to Park City. Following the strike, Vail stock prices tumbled.

Norton said TAPP, alongside County Commissioner Jonathan Houck, plans to send a letter to and request a meeting with Bill Rock, the president of Vail’s Mountain Division. Their intent is to discuss ways to “produce some return on investment” at CBMR, including an expansion into Teo 2 and possible base area improvements.

“Long-term, there has to be collaboration between [Vail and] the communities we’re in,” Billick said. “We saw this break down in Park City.”

Gaps in public transit

Last year the RTA carried just under 400,000 passengers, with ridership up over 20% over 2023. As passenger counts rise, the organization continues to discuss expansions. Within its newly adopted strategic plan, the board outlined the locations of three new “park and ride” locations: Brush Creek Road, Crested Butte South and north Gunnison. These would be similar to the Ohio Creek stop, which has a small parking area adjacent to the bus waiting area.

The park and rides, designed to increase accessibility for those who do not live close to an existing bus stop, have been added to the CDOT’s longrange plan. The Crested Butte projects could be pursued within the next three years.

During the meeting, county commissioner Laura Puckett Daniels said Joni Reynolds, the director Gunnison County Health and Human Services, shared her thoughts on how public transit could be improved to serve the residents she sees in her office. The west side of Gunnison still lacks RTA bus service, and no connectiv-

ity exists between Gunnison, Montrose and Grand Junction, Puckett Daniels said.

For those who don’t have a personal vehicle or a driver’s license, and have appointments in Montrose, the options are limited. Reynolds noted incidents where residents took the Bustang to Denver, and then from there, hopped on the bus line to Grand Junction — sometimes not until the following morning.

“It's too prohibitive,” Puckett Daniels said. “People end up really in a pinch.”

CDOT has waffled back and forth on whether to launch a Bustang line between Gunnison and Montrose for a number of years, but the service has not yet come to fruition. It was in the transportation agency’s plans until the start of Little Blue Creek Canyon construction, and then before the closure of the Blue Mesa Reservoir middle bridge last year. Puckett Daniels said the RTA will continue to advocate for the service.

While it still may be awhile before Gunnison residents can catch a bus to Montrose, twice daily Bustang service to Denver will begin on Feb. 1. The service will cost the RTA roughly $100,000 annually unless CDOT finds additional funding. Chaffee County is covering the other half of the local cost match.

RTA Executive Director Scott Truex said there is a chance CDOT decides to cover the entire cost of the service in the future. Years before the Bustang existed, the RTA subsidized a bus service from Gunnison to Denver and slotted a spot for it in the organization’s annual budget. After the first year, CDOT took over operations and later rebranded it to the present-day Bustang. Still, the board remained wary of possible state transportation budget shortfalls. “I would be surprised if there wasn't going to be some tug of war around that with CDOT,” said county commissioner Liz Smith.

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

Rural Transportation Authority busses shuttled just under 400,000 passengers around the valley in 2024. (Photo by Mariel Wiley)

A convincing Bob Ross look-alike led a sold-out painting workshop at the Gunnison Arts Center on the evening of Jan. 25. Brushstroke by brushstroke, the artists created colorful nature scenes on their canvases. In honor of the late celebrity painter, mistakes were lauded as just “happy accidents.”

(Photos by Evan Bjornstad)

Ski for free at Cranor

Thanks to a donation from the Crested Butte Snowsports Foundation, daily lift tickets at Cranor Ski Hill are available at no cost every Wednesday from 1 p.m. to 4 p.m. through Feb. 12. The nonprofit CB Snowsports Foundation supports youth skiing in the Gunnison Valley through need- and merit-based scholarships for athletes and grants for partnering snowsports organizations.

(Photos by Mariel Wiley)

Faith Directory

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 Jewish Congregation

PO Box 2537 Crested Butte, CO 81224 305-803-3648 bnaibutte@gmail.com

Serving the Jewish communities of Crested Butte, Gunnison and surrounging areas.

Spititual leader: Rabbi Mark Kula is available for you at RabbiMarkKula@gmail.com bnaibutte.org

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. newsonggunnison.net

Community Church of Gunnison

107 N. Iowa • 970-641- 0925

Pastor Larry Nelson

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

First Baptist Church

120 N. Pine St. • 970-641-2240

Pastor Jonathan Jones

SUNDAY

Sunday School at 10 a.m.

Sunday Morning Worship at 11 a.m.

Sunday Evening Service at 6 p.m. (during school year) WEDNESDAY (during school year)

Truth Trackers Kids Club at 6:30 p.m.

Youth Group for Teens at 7:30 p.m. firstbaptistgunnison.org. Gunnison

Congregational Church

United Church of Christ

317 N. Main St. • 970-641-3203

Open and Affirming Whole Earth · Just Peace Sunday, 10 a.m. Casual, Relaxed, “Come As You Are” Worship gunnisonucc.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. trinitybaptistsgunnison.com

Mt. Calvary Lutheran Church

711 N. Main • 970-641-1860

Senior Pastor Robert Carabotta Assoc. Pastor Jacob With Childrens Sunday School – Sunday 9 a.m.

Adult Sunday School – Sunday 9 a.m.

Divine Service of the Word – Sunday 10 a.m.

St. Peter’s Catholic Church

300 N. Wisconsin • 970-641-0808 Fr. Andres Ayala-Santiago gunnisoncatholic.org crestedbuttecatholic.org or call the Parish Office.

St. Peter’s - Gunnison Sat 5 p.m. & Sun 10:30 a.m., 12 p.m. (Spanish) Mass First Sunday of every month bilingual Mass 11 a.m.

Queen of All Saints - Crested Butte, 401 Sopris Sun 8:30 a.m. Mass St. Rose of Lima - Lake City

Communion Service, Sun. at 10 a.m.

The Good Samaritan Episcopal Church

307 W. Virginia Ave. • 970-641-0429

Rev. Laura Osborne, Vicar

First Sunday of each month –11 a.m. Holy Eucharist, Rite II

Alternating at Good Samaritan and All Saints in the Mountains

Check our websites for location

Second Sunday-Fifth Sunday –9 a.m. Holy Eucharist, Rite II

Children’s Sunday school –2nd and 4th Sundays, monthly Office hours: M-TH 9 a.m. – 4 p.m. Taize – 1st Wednesday, monthly - 7 p.m. goodsamaritangunnison.org

Visit our partnership church: All Saints in the Mountains, Crested Butte Meeting Second-Fifth Sundays at 5 p.m., Holy Eucharist, Rite II 403 Maroon Ave, Crested Butte Visit our website for location of 11 a.m. Holy Eucharist, First Sunday of each month allsaintsinthemountains.org

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.

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.

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

CBCS - Health Assistant Bus Drivers Food Service

Substitute teachers

PROFESSIONAL OPPORTUNITIES

SPED Teacher - GHS

Band Teacher - GHS and GMS

Social Studies Teacher - GHS

GES Music Teacher

GES STEAM Teacher

COACHING

GHS - Assistant Girls’ Basketball Coach (C team)

GHS - Girls’ Diving/ Asst. Swimming coach

GHS - Head Football Coach

GHS - Cross Country Coach

CBHS - Assistant Track & Field coach

Please contact: Superintendent’s Ofﬁce JoAnn Klingsmith 800 N. Boulevard 970-641-7760

jklingsmith@ gunnisonschools.net

TOWN OF CRESTED BUTTE seeks applicants for a Planner I to join the Community Development team. The Planner I works closely with all the Community Development divisions, multiple Town departments, the Board of Zoning and Architectural Review (BOZAR), the Town Council, regional partners within the Gunnison Valley, and the Crested Butte Community. The Planner I assists/ leads some smaller case review and processing of development applications to BOZAR. The Planner I assists in the development and amendment of longrange plans and regulations that guide the growth and development of Crested Butte. The Planner assists some case work for the housing division. The Planner I is a communication resource for the Community Development Department assisting crafting and distributing in public notices; creating and distributing the advertisement of community events; crats and distributes the Department’s new letters; other media to raise public awareness, and performs related work as assigned. This year-round position includes an excellent benefits package with 100% employer paid health, dental, vision, life insurance, and contribution to retirement plan after one year of employment. Starting salary is $61,000 to $85,406 annually, DOQ. Full job description is available on the Town’s website at www.townofcrestedbutte. com/jobs. Please submit application, cover letter, and resume via email to jobs@ crestedbutte-co.gov. Position is open until filled. The Town of Crested Butte is an Equal Opportunity Employer.

THE CLUB AT CRESTED BUTTE is hiring a Restaurant Manager. This is a full-time yearround position with medical, retirement, and vacation benefits. The annual salary range is $65,000 to $70,000 DOE. For more information or to submit a resume please visit: theclubatcrestedbutte.com.

CITY OF GUNNISON EMPLOYMENT OPPORTUNITIES

Equipment Operator

Full-Time, $60,300-$70,900/yr

Operates a variety of City-owned heavy equipment, vehicles and tools in the construction and maintenance of City streets and alleys, curbs and gutters, sidewalks, traffic/street signage and other City infrastructure and services. Drives garbage and recycling trucks with hydraulic lifts on a rotational basis with other team members along designated routes.

Part-Time Openings Lifeguards: $23-$29.33/hr.

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), 13 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.

GUNNISON VALLEY HEALTH IS HIRING:

Grow your career with GVH! We will provide on the job training for you to become a certified Medical Assistant!$18-24.40/hour 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 at gunnisonvalleyhealth. org/careers or call HR for questions 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.

POWERSTOP is looking for head cook. Pay is $50,000 minimum, position also offers paid time off and health insurance reimbursement. Pay is based on 40 hours a week. Applications must be able to work mornings or evenings and weekends. Resumes to be in a sealed envelope attention Sean. Drop off at Powerstop.

LITTLE RED SCHOOLHOUSE IN CB SOUTH is hiring a full time teacher! This position is with 4 year olds and there is lots of potential to sub in other classrooms to create a full time position. This is a wonderful family environment with fabulous kids and teachers! Creativity, flexibility, and calmness under pressure are traits that help with success in this job. Multiple ways to grow in the field. Great pay, huge benefits, and year round stable employment. Please inquire with resume and interest letter to lilredschoolhouse1@gmail.com.

LITTLE RED SCHOOLHOUSE is hiring one more amazing teacher to complete our team! Looking for someone who truly loves working with kids, is patient and kind, has

Place a 25-word COSCAN Network ad in 91 Colorado Newspapers for $300 Contact

a flexible schedule, is hardworking and reliable, and a team player! This position is part to full time and has some time with infants and toddlers and some time with 3-4 year olds. Come be a part of this rewarding career with awesome pay, benefits and a stable year round full time job. Please submit resume via email to Jessica at lilredschoolhouse1@gmail.com

THE TOWN OF CRESTED BUTTE seeks applicants for a Human Resources Technician to join the Finance & Administrative Services team. The HR Tech provides advanced office support to various Human Resources functions including, but not limited to the following specialized areas: recruitment, compensation, benefits administration, confidential data management and general administration; provides information and assistance to staff and the public; coordinates Human Resources related events and activities; provide clerical duties, as required, assists with projects and special assignments as requested by professional and management staff; and performs related work as assigned. This year-round position includes an excellent benefits package with 100% employer paid health, dental, vision, life insurance, and contribution to retirement plan after one year of employment. Starting salary is $29.33 – $35.19 per hour DOQ. Full range of pay grade extends to $41.06 per hour. Full job description is available on the Town’s website at www.townofcrestedbutte. com. Please submit application, cover letter, and resume via email to jobs@crestedbutteco.gov. Position is open until filled. The Town of Crested Butte is an Equal Opportunity Employer.

INTERESTED IN A CAREER WITH BENEFITS? The Crested Butte Bank, a branch of the Gunnison Bank and Trust Company, has an opening for a full-time teller to join the operations side of our growing bank. Applicants should have strong customer service skills, the ability to multi-task, and a willingness to learn. GB&T fosters a learning environment where you will gain exposure to multiple areas of the bank with a strong foundation in operations. Pay starting at $18.50. Robust benefits package includes 401(k), medical insurance, vision insurance, life insurance and disability insurance (ST and LT). Pooled transportation is available. Send resume to abrown@crestedbuttebank.com or lbeda@ gunnisonbank.com.

REAL ESTATE

MAIN STREET GUNNISON: 3BR/1BA W/D gas fireplace. Dogs allowed. $2,500. mtohomes@gmail.com.

SHARED OFFICE AVAILABLE AT THE ICELAB: 110SqFt, Fiber Internet, $260 a month. Email ben@icelab.co for more info.

OFFICE SPACE FOR RENT: 307 N Main Street, Gunnison, CO second floor office space, approximately 330 square feet, available January 15, 2025, $525/ month includes utilities (electric/garbage collection). Please call 970-642-4655 to request a viewing appointment.

OFFICE

AVAILABLE FOR LOCAL

and Acceptance form from the

Election Official (DEO): Tonya Carr (Designated Election Official) 216 North Colorado St Gunnison, Colorado 81230 (DEO Address) 970-707-3047 (DEO Telephone) gunnisoncd2006@gmail.com (DEO email) The Office of the DEO is open on the following days: Tuesday-Thursday from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. The deadline to submit a Self-Nomination and Acceptance is close of business [4:00pm] on February 28, 2025 (not less than 67 days before the election).

Affidavit of Intent To Be A Write-In-Candidate forms must be submitted to the office of the designated election official by the close of business on Monday, March 3, 2025 (the sixty-fourth day before the election).

NOMINATIONS

the Ragged Mountain Fire Protection District office: 3688 Highway 133 Somerset, Co 81434

970-929-5500

The Office of the Ragged Mountain Fire Protection District is open on the following days: Monday from 10:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m., Tuesday from 1:00 pm to 4:00 pm and Friday from 10:00 am to 2:00 pm.

The deadline to submit a Self-Nomination and Acceptance is close of business on Friday, February 28, 2025 (not less than 67 days before the election).

NOTICE IS FURTHER GIVEN, an application for an absentee ballot shall be filed with the designated election official no later than the close of business on Tuesday preceding the election, April 29, 2025.

Designated Election Official Signature

Eric J. Gross Attorney P.C. P.O. Box 608 Carbondale, Co 81623

Phone 970-778-0826

Email: ejg@roaringforklaw.com

Gunnison Country Times

Gunnison, Colorado Publication date of January 30, 2025 16046

CALL FOR NOMINATIONS

§1-13.5-501, 1-13.5-1102(3), 32-1-905(2), C.R.S.

TO WHOM IT MAY CONCERN, and, particularly, to the electors of the Gunnison County Metropolitan Recreation District, Gunnison County and a portion of the northwest corner of Saguache County, State of Colorado; NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that an election will be held on the 6th day of May, 2025, between the hours of 7:00 a.m. and 7:00 p.m. At that time, two directors will be elected to serve 4-year terms. Eligible electors of the Gunnison County Metropolitan Recreation District interested in serving on the board of directors may obtain a Self-Nomination and Acceptance form from the District website at www.gcmetrec. com and from the Designated Election Official (DEO):

Sue Wallace (Designated Election Official)

Gunnison County Metropolitan Recreation District – 710 South 9th Street, Gunnison, Colorado

Sue Wallace – 970-901-6851

Gunnison County Metropolitan Recreation District – 970-641-8725 DEO@gcmetrec. com

The Office of the DEO is open on the following days: Monday-Friday from 10:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. The deadline to submit a Self-Nomination and Acceptance Form to the designated election official is at 4:00 p.m. on February 28, 2025 (not less than 67 days before the election).

The deadline to submit an Affidavit of Intent

To Be A Write-In-Candidate Form to the designated election official is at 4:00 p.m. on Monday, March 3, 2025 (the sixty-fourth day before the election).

NOTICE IS FURTHER GIVEN, an application for an absentee ballot shall be filed with the designated election official no later than 4:00 p.m. on Tuesday preceding the election, April 29, 2025

Sue Wallace - Designated Election Official Signature

Gunnison Country Times

Gunnison, Colorado Publication dates of January 30, February 6, 13 and 20, 2025 16090

CALL FOR NOMINATIONS

TO WHOM IT MAY CONCERN, and, particularly, to the electors of the Gunnison County Fire Protection District of Gunnison and Saguache Counties, Colorado.

NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that an election will be held on the 6th day of May 2025, between the hours of 7:00 a.m. and 7:00 p.m. At that time, two directors will be elected to serve 4-year terms. Eligible electors of the Gunnison County Fire Protection District interested in serving on the board of directors may obtain a Self-Nomination and Acceptance form from the District Designated Election Official (DEO): Deborah Ferchau 417 S. 10th Street, Gunnison, CO 81230 (970) 417-0687 debferchau@hotmail.com

The Office of the DEO is open on the

following days: Monday - Friday from 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m.

The deadline to submit a Self-Nomination and Acceptance form is close of business 5:00 p.m. on February 28, 2025 (not less than 67 days before the election). Affidavit of Intent To Be A Write-In-Candidate forms must be submitted to the office of the designated election official by the close of business on Monday, March 3, 2025 (the sixty-fourth day before the election).

Gunnison Country Times

Gunnison, Colorado

Publication dates of January 30 and February 6, 2025

16063

NOTICE TO CREDITORS

Estate of David Klauser, Deceased, Case Number 24PR25

All persons having claims against the above named estate are required to present them to the personal representative or to District Court of Gunnison County on or before May 16, 2025, or the claims may be forever barred.

Markus Klauser PO Box 2252

Crested Butte CO 81224-2252

Gunnison Country Times

Gunnison, Colorado

Publication dates of January 16, 23 and 30, 2025

15944

PUBLIC HEARING

Notice of Public Hearing

The Town of Pitkin

A Public Hearing will be held during the Regular Town Meeting on Tuesday, February 18th at 7:00 p.m. at the Newcomb Community Center located at 801 State Street, Pitkin, CO to receive public comments regarding a Zoning Change Request. Property owners of 601 State Street, Pitkin, CO have applied for a zoning change from residential to

commercial zoning. For details, please visit the Town website at https://thetownofpitkin. colorado.gov/2025-meeting-packets or contact the Town Clerk at thetownofpitkin@ gmail.com

Gunnison Country Times Gunnison, Colorado Publication date of January 30, 2025 16101

REQUEST FOR PROPOSAL

Mt. Crested Butte Playground Introduction: The Town of Mt. Crested Butte is seeking proposals from qualified contractors/ vendors for the design and construction of a new playground at the Ted Scheske Town Park. The objective is to create a safe, inclusive, and engaging environment for children of all abilities to play, learn, and interact. The new playground will enhance the community space and provide a valuable recreational area for visitors and families. This is currently the only playground area in the town of Mt. Crested Butte. Proposals are due March 24, 2025 at 5:00 PM (MST). Question Deadline is March 1, 2025at 5:00 PM (MST). For any questions or to submit a proposal please contact Addison Ives at aives@mtcb. colorado.gov or 970-349-6632. Please go to https://mtcb.colorado.gov/request-forproposals for more information.

Gunnison Country Times

Gunnison, Colorado Publication dates of January 30, February 13 and March 6, 2025 16089

REQUEST FOR PROPOSAL

The Town of Mt. Crested Butte (“Town”) is soliciting proposals for the Statement of Qualifications (“SOQ”) from individuals and/ or firms (“Consultant”) capable of providing professional grant writing services on behalf of the Town.

The Town seeks to increase its awareness and pursue viable grant opportunities, including applying for grants which address Town needs associated with projects, service delivery, and civic events. It is the goal of the Town to obtain grants that leverage Town funds and minimize the utilization of tax dollars.

The selected Consultant shall provide assistance in researching, preparing and securing local, state, and/or federal grants that support qualifying government services and as related to the various Town Departments, including Administration, Public Works, Community Development, and Marketing.

The selected Consultant shall be an independent contractor and shall not be an employee, agent, or servant of the Town. Consultant is not entitled to workers’ compensation benefits from the Town and is obligated to pay federal and state income tax on any money earned pursuant to the Town contract (Professional Services AgreementPSA).

The selected Consultant will be expected to enter into a Professional Services Agreement (Attachment A) with the Town consistent with the terms of this SOQ. The non-exclusive agreement with the selected Consultant will have a term of twelve (12) months beginning on or about January 27, 2025 with the possibility of the Town renewing the contract for up to three (3) additional 12 (twelve) month terms, subject to Town annual appropriations and TABOR. For the full proposal please go to https:// mtcb.colorado.gov/request-for-proposals . For questions regarding the position please contact Jeff Smith at jsmith@mtcb.colorado. gov or 970-349-6632 ext 103.

Submittal of Proposal: Proposals shall be submitted electronically (pdf) by Monday, February 17, 2025 at 3:00 pm (MST) to Tiffany O’Connell, Town Clerk at the email: toconnell@mtcb.colorado.gov.

Gunnison Country Times

Gunnison, Colorado Publication dates of January 30 and February 6, 2025 16066

EARLY BIRDS!

WINTER PLEDGE DRIVE

No Name Basin set for December 2025 opening

Alex McCrindle Times Sports Editor

On a brisk February day in 1938, a community dream manifested atop the windwhipped summit of Marshall Pass. Members of the Salida Ski Club rattled up the Denver and Rio Grande railway for 5-mile ski runs down the Continental Divide. They lugged 7-foot-long wooden planks in the train cars, and once they summited, were met with the joyous sounds of polka music and singalongs. In those days, the club paid a dime for each train ride back up the pass.

But locals dreamed of a future hill to join the likes of regional ski areas Winter Park, Wolf Creek and Pioneer. In under a year, Monarch Mountain was founded at the crest of the divide, just 12 miles north of Marshall Pass. It has been independently owned and operated ever since.

Today, 86 years after the birth of Monarch, locals await another milestone. In December 2025, the mountain plans to unveil a new lift, opening up 377 acres of new terrain, 10 runs and 1,000 additional vertical feet in the No Name Basin area. The expansion will crown Monarch as the only ski resort in the country to access both sides of the Continental Divide.

“Skiing Monarch is a state of mind,” said Gunnison Valley historian Duane Vandenbusche. “It’s the high elevation, the blue skies, spectacular runs and family-oriented environment that makes it such a special place.”

Monarch, majority-owned by Bob Nicolls since 2002, began tree removal, restoration work and erosion control in July of 2024. By using a cut-to-length loading machine and additional equipment to haul lumber, runs began to weave along the coniferous hillside. The construction crews then smoothed down stumps and debris in a process called mastication. By last fall, Monarch revealed seven future runs, and a site for a future, fixed-grip triple ski lift.

This spring, Monarch will finish cutting trees and masticating the remaining runs. Then Skytrac, a ski lift company based in Utah, will begin installing the lift, which is scheduled to open at the end of this year. Monarch also plans to build a ski patrol outpost and warming hut near the bottom terminal, expected

to open in the summer of 2026. Situated just beyond the western edge of Monarch’s extreme Mirkwood terrain, the No Name Basin drops off into a sea of steep, tree-cut chutes. The future top terminal will be located behind the Shagnasty run, near the top of the Breezeway lift. It will also be accessible from the top of the Panororama Lift.

“I like to say we’ll be skiing where both oceans begin,” Monarch Sales Manager Eva Egbert said. “It’s a bit of a stretch, but skiing both sides of the Continental Divide is super exciting to me as a European. It’s like we’re skiing both sides of the world.”

At the edge of the No Name rim, skiers are met with a terrace overlooking Monarch’s previously inaccessible western reaches. The Tomichi Dome looms prominently over the sagebrush plains. In the distance, Uncompahgre Peak rules over the San Juans, while Gunnison sits protected by vast plains. The new trails snake through the trees, accessing both groomed and mogul terrain and glade access. While most of the runs will receive an intermediate rating, the No Name lift run will offer a steep, ungroomed trail and earn a black diamond badge.

“If ever there was an area in the world that was made for skiing, it’s Monarch,” Vandenbusche said. “Elevation 11,000, 350 inches of snow each year, steep terrain, dry champagne powder and right on the doorstep of the Saguache Range.”

The plan to expand into the No Name Basin persisted

for over three years, but was delayed by the pandemic and the location’s rich historical significance. The mountain is home to one of three prehistoric “game drive” sites in Colorado, dating back to 3,000 B.C. Ancient tribes used stone embankments, called game drives, to snare deer, mountain sheep and elk. Archaeologists have since discovered scattered hunting encampments, making Monarch the southernmost game drive in the state.

With guidance from US Forest Service archaeologists, Monarch designed the trail systems and lift terminal locations around these heritage sites. The crews conducted the first wave of tree cutting over a layer of snow, and will begin the lift installation in similar conditions to prevent soil disruption.

The mountain’s connection to history is likely to seep into the future lift and run names in the No Name area, Egbert said. Vandenbusche has already recommended a handful of ideas, harkening back to the prehistoric hunting site, the nearby Madonna Mine and the Salida Ski Club’s railroad trips.

“We have a lot of great beginner areas and advanced terrain, but Monarch really needed more intermediate, cruisy groomer stuff and that is exactly what this project provides,” said Monarch Ski Patroller Zach Moore. “It’s an entirely different feel in No Name.”

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

The edge of No Name Basin looks out over the Tomichi Dome and the San Juans. (Photo by Alex McCrindle)

Skiers board the Denver-Rio Grande railroad atop Marshall Pass in the late 1930s. (Courtesy Duane Vandenbusche)

JANUARY 21

Lights & Sirens Karaoke Kickoff

—

JANUARY 22

DRIVING UNDER THE INFLUENCE - ALCOHOL — N. MAIN ST. WELFARE ASSIST — N. BOULEVARD ST. PROPERTY - FOUND — IOWA ST.

JANUARY 23

TOBACCO VIOLATION - UNLAWFUL POSSESSION RE1J — 1099 N. 11TH ST.

JANUARY 24

CRIMINAL TRESPASS: FIRST DEGREE - VEHICLE — 902 W. HWY 50 MUNICIPAL CODE VIOLATION — 134 E. TOMICHI AVE.

JANUARY 25

ALARM — 102 S. MAIN ST. ALCOHOL VIOLATION - UNDERAGE PURCHASE — 202 E. TOMICHI AVE. WELFARE ASSIST — N. TELLER ST. DOMESTIC VIOLENCE — W. RIO GRANDE AVE.

JANUARY 26

ALCOHOL VIOLATION - UNDERAGE POSS/CONSUMPTION — 226 N. MAIN ST. ACCIDENT - HIT & RUN — 900 N. MAIN ST.

ASSAULT: SECOND DEGREE - OFFICER/FIRE/EMS BODILY INJURY — 510 W. BIDWELL AVE.

GUNNISON COUNTY SHERIFF’S REPORT

JANUARY 21

- Non-injury accident report

JANUARY 22

- Fraud and deceit report

JANUARY 23

- Information report-vin inspection

JANUARY 24

- Information report-vin inspection - Fraud and deceit report

JANUARY 25

- Traffic infraction report

JANUARY 26

- Assault in the 2nd degree report

JANUARY 27

- Warrant arrest – in county

CRIME STOPPERS is asking for help identifying the person or people responsible for an assault. On Dec. 29, 2024, during the early morning hours, a 27-year-old male was stabbed multiple times while attending a private event at the Fred Field Heritage Center in Gunnison.

If you can identify the person or people involved, contact the Gunnison Police Department at 970.641.8200.

If you have information about this crime or any other crime, contact CRIME STOPPERS at 970.641.8280. You may remain anonymous and may be eligible for a cash reward of up to $1,000.

CRIME STOPPERS solicita su ayuda para identificar a la persona o personas responsables de un asalto. El 29 de diciembre de 2024, durante las primeras horas de la mañana, un hombre de 27 años fue apuñalado varias veces mientras asistía a un evento privado en el Fred R Field Heritage Center (Rodeo). Si puede identificar a la persona o personas involucradas, se le solicita que se comunique con el Departamento de Policía de Gunnison al 970.641.8200 o con “Crime Stoppers”. Si tiene información sobre este delito o cualquier otro delito, comuníquese con CRIME STOPPERS al 970.641.8280. Puede permanecer anónimo y puede ser elegible para una recompensa en efectivo de hasta $1,000.00.

Healthy Skin

INTRODUCING DERMATOLOGY SERVICES

Your skin deserves expert care. At Gunnison Valley Health, we’re excited to bring advanced dermatology services right here to the valley. From routine skin checks to specialized treatments, we’re here to keep your skin healthy and thriving.

At Gunnison Valley Health, we’re making it easier than ever to prioritize your skin health with expert care, less wait times and convenient locations.

Dr. Nickolas Poulos is a board-certiﬁed dermatologist with expertise in:

• Skin Cancer Treatment: Early detection and Mohs surgery.

• Medical Dermatology: Care for acne, eczema, psoriasis and more.

• Cosmetic Services: Botox® injections.

Dr. Poulos will have clinics in Gunnison and Crested Butte:

• GVH Specialty Clinic at the hospital: Mondays, Wednesdays and Fridays

• Gunnison Valley Orthopedics in Crested Butte: Tuesdays

Fat tire tread marks lead home

Prodigal cycle race returns to Crested Butte for its 10th anniversary

Jacob Spetzler Special to the Times

The light was flat and grey on the morning of Jan. 24 in the North Valley, obscuring subtle details in the snowdrifts piled around the Crested Butte Community School. The drab weather offered stark contrast for the trickle of colorfully-clad cyclists atop bikes with abnormally large tires. The bikers rode through the field and trails surrounding the school, preparing for the 10th anniversary Fat Bike World Championship, which had returned to its birthplace in Crested Butte after five years on the road.

Nora Hageman, a fat bike racer in the making, practices on her Strider ski bike after the race began. (Photos by Jacob Spetzler)

Fat bikes mirror standard mountain bikes in all aspects except for their ginormous tires. The average Fat bike tires are around 4 inches wide, and are unique in that cyclists can ride them on snow or sand, a task that’s usually difficult with mountain bike tires. The Fat Bike World Championship is a race designed for a niche sport still in its early competitive years.

“You go to a bike race to watch human suffering. Pushing the limits. But then it’s more than that. It’s about the smiles and the creativity. We’ve got such an amazing community that embraces it.”

Dave Ochs Race director

The competition was set to begin at 11 a.m., and racers began coalescing near the start line. The giddy athletes made final mechanical adjustments, situating saddle heights and affixing their racer cards to the front of the bikes as race director Dave Ochs briefed the crowd on the course.

The route this year was just over 5 miles, with 342 feet of elevation gain, and ran through the Town Ranch section of the Crested Butte Nordic ski trails at the base of Crested Butte Mountain, and up into the rolling hills near the town of Mt.

Crested Butte. There were two sections: the main Worlds Race, which consisted of five laps for 83 of the racers, and the threelap Fun Race, in which the remaining 37 cyclists competed.

Ochs, who has been organizing events in Crested Butte for two decades, dreamed up the concept of a Fat Bike competition when he was working for the Crested Butte Chamber of Commerce. His experience within the genre of “cult world” sports – championships for niche sports such as Skimo, and the Single Speed Bicycle Worlds (similar to the Fat Bike Worlds but for bicycles with only one gear) were a huge inspiration. And like so many other valley events, the great idea was born over a beer.

“It was 2015 when fat biking was experiencing a lot of its growth and emergence,” Ochs said. “In true Crested Butte fashion, we were joking around at the bar. We had just put on the Skimo National Championships so we thought why not put on the Fat Bike World Championship?”

The first race was in 2016, and for two years, Ochs staged the event under the umbrella of the Chamber of Commerce before he became the first executive director of the Crested Butte Mountain Bike Association (CBMBA) in 2017. Fat Bike Worlds remained in Crested Butte until 2021. The 2020 race was held just weeks before the first major coronavirus outbreak in the valley, and the pandemic laws remained strict a year later. Ochs knew if he wanted to put on the event, it would have to move locations. So, when the Sublette County Chamber of Commerce in Wyoming expressed interest, he leapt at the opportunity.

In 2022 and 2023, the race again moved, this time to New Richmond, Wisconsin. The spread of the sport is key to Ochs’ philosophy of race organizing, he said.

“They did not have a fat biking amenity in New Richmond, but after the race they were psyched not just from the

bike club point of view, but the community point of view,” he said. “Now they do have a groomed trail on their golf course. They have the tools and equipment to do it. The event truly worked for them, it brought attention to their area and the sport.”Last year, the event was held in Leadville. Ochs said he tries to give each place two years of the event to make the gear and logistics investment worthwhile, but the hometown poetry in returning to Crested Butte for the event’s 10th anniversary was important, he said. Next year, it will return to Leadville.

Visitors mingled with locals and the crowd was alive with a funk and style unique to Crested Butte. The aid stations carried whiskey and beer to facilitate the race mentality. After the race, supporters and family members partied at the Crested Butte Center for the Arts to the tune of Led Zeppelin covers, courtesy of the band Ten Years Gone.

Ethan Moyer of Leadville and Brittni Birdsong of Alamosa took first in the men and women’s division of the main event. For the Fun Race, Lakewood’s Kristin Knudson and Crested Butte’s Joey Padden earned the top spots.

Through his multi-state event planning, Ochs said the Fat Bike Worlds is one event he doesn’t think he’ll ever get tired of coordinating.

“I used to throw a lot of events 25 years ago and I’ve kind of gotten tired of it, just because of old age,” he said. “But it’s amazing to me, especially this year. You go to a bike race to watch human suffering, and that’s what it’s all about. Pushing the limits. People are doing that here, but then it's more than that. It’s about the smiles and the creativity. We’ve got such an amazing community that embraces it.”

(Jacob Spetzler is the former photo and sports editor of the Gunnison Country Times)

Race director Dave Ochs makes announcements before the race.

Ethan Moyer is tailed by Ryan Graber as they begin their second lap of the main race. Moyer went on to win first place while Graber came in second.

Joey Padden, a Crested Butte local, listens to Ochs’ pre-race talk. Padden went on to win the men’s division of the Fun Race.

Costume contest winners Tim and Sharon Nuccio dressed as Maverick and Goose from Top Gun.

Veteran breakfast

Veteran Breakfast at American Legion Post 54, Feb. 1 at 9 a.m. t0 11 a.m. Bring your loved ones and enjoy heart-shaped pancakes to celebrate the upcoming Valentine's Day! All veterans, their families, friends and supporters are welcome.

Daddy Daughter dance

Join us for the 7th annual Daddy Daughter dance on Feb. 8 from 6-8 p.m. at 107 N. Iowa

St. Tickets are $20 for father and daughter plus $5 per extra daughter. Ticket includes Dj, desserts, refreshments, photo booth and a night full of fun and laughter!

Crested Butte School of Dance

Adult Block 3 registration is now open, and scholarship applications will be accepted through Feb. 3. This block will run Feb. 24 to April 11 and feature the following dance styles: ballet, tap, hip

hop, jazz, contemporary, aerial, dance conditioning, belly dance, hooping, dancercise and fan fundamentals. Most classes are open for full registration or drop-ins! Visit dancecrestedbutte.org to view schedules, create accounts, register for classes, purchase punchcards and apply for scholarships. Contact programs@ dancecrestedbutte.org for more information.

Move the Butte

This year's production will showcase 140 adult community members performing a wide range of dance styles, including ballet, tap, aerial, hip hop, latin, pop, lyrical, contemporary, fire dance, hoops and more. Move the Butte is a CB winter tradition that brings the whole Gunnison Valley together under one roof at the Center for the Arts. All four shows will sell out, so mark your calendars for Feb. 3 when tickets go on sale at noon! Purchase tickets at movethebutte.com/tickets.

GUNNISON ARTS CENTER BRIEFS

The Valley of Fools

Join a clown troupe of misfits Jan. 31 at 7 p.m. and Feb. 1 at 2 p.m. and 7 p.m. .as they bring raw humor and heart to the stage in The Valley of Fools. With every stumble and slip, they reveal the honest truths of the human experience. Doors open 30 minutes before curtain.

Ceramic heart boxes

Join Hannah Willis on Feb. 1 for a fun, hands-on class! Create a heart-shaped box using handbuilding techniques, perfect for holding special treasures.

Youth + Family Class from 9:30 a.m.- 12 p.m. Ages 6+ (6 requires a parent)

Adult Class from 4- 6:30 p.m. Ages 18+

Crackpots, Crackshots & a Cannibal

Step back to 1880 and discover the wild, mostly-true story of four legendary figures who stayed in Gunnison during the gold rush

Alpenphunk: Antibalas

Antibalas, a Brooklyn-based musical collective, was founded in 1997 by Martín Perna, with members from the Soul Providers/Dap Kings band. The group debuted in May 1998 and soon after, Amayo, a Lagos native and afrobeat enthusiast, joined as lead vocalist. The show is on Jan. 31 at 8 p.m. and the cost ranges from $45-$85.

Ski patrol fundraiser

Join us for the 43rd annual Wall to Wall Community Fundraiser on Feb. 8 at 7 p.m. Will they need to adjust attitudes or will they be wall to wall??!! Boot Juice will be providing the entertainment for this year’s event. Don't miss it! The cost is $35+.

BOARDS AND COMMISSIONS NOTICE

Gunnison County is currently accepting letters of interest for the vacancies listed below.

Letter of Interest will be accepted for the

Letters of interest will be accepted until Wednesday, Febuary 5th, 2025 via: Gunnison County Administration Office

Mail: 200 E. Virginia Avenue, Gunnison CO 81230

Email: bocc@gunnisoncounty.org

Online: https://gunnisoncounty.org/boardapp

Interviews will be held on Tuesday, February 11th, 2025.

Please provide all contact information with your letter, including an email address.

You may request more information by calling (970) 641-7600.

on Feb. 7 and 8. Featuring live music, dance and unforgettable characters like Doc Shores, Ellen "Captain" Jack and Alferd Packer. Doors open at 6:30 p.m. and the curtain goes up at 7 p.m.

Broadway Bound

Join Macy Vinther for six Tuesdays beginning Feb. 4 from 4-5:30 p.m. for Broadway Bound! In Broadway Bound, young performers (ages 8-13) will develop vocal, movement, and acting skills in a fun, supportive setting. The class ends with a final showcase performance for family and friends. A class where your child will learn to act, dance and sing for musical theatre.

Strengthen and lengthen

Join this fun, effective class starting Feb. 4 from 6-7 p.m. to build core strength, stability, and flexibility. Perfect for all levels— whether you’re new to fitness or an experienced mover. Ages: 16+.

Toast your hot toddy

On Feb. 14 from 5-7 p.m. warm up your Valentine’s Day with our Hot Toddy Mini-Seminar with Renee Newman from Montanya. It is the perfect prelude to an unforgettable evening with The Motet. The cost is $25.

The Motet

Formed over two decades ago, the funk six-piece The Motet have learned to work as an interlocking unit, with each member bolstering one another towards the best creative output.This symbiosis has led to a unique style and cohesive musical chemistry, as seen in the band's immaculate live performances and seamless blend of funk, soul, jazz, and rock. The show is on Feb. 14 at 8 p.m. and the cost ranges from $45-$75.

SWIMMING: Cowboys compete at home, B5

HOCKEY: Titans offense thrives against Caprock, B6

GUNNISON COUNTRY TIMES • THURSDAY, JANUARY 30, 2025

GHS girls basketball speeds away from Miners

Gomez’s 17 points, 13 rebounds leads Cowboys to league win

Alex McCrindle Times Sports Editor

The GHS girls basketball team maintained their impressive form on the road this week, and defeated the North Fork Miners 55-46 on Jan. 25. The league victory extended the girls streak to three games, following wins over Aspen and Meeker on Jan. 17 and 18.

Now, the Cowboys boast an 8-5 overall record, and sit second in the 3A Western Slope League with a record of 6-1.

“Even though we’re a smaller team physically, we’re doing a much better job battling for the basketball, boxing out and

Kylee McDougal dripples past a Cedaredge defender on Jan. 10. (Photos by

Mountaineers stifle Yellow Jackets

Western takes No. 1 seed in RMAC

Drew Dunathan Special to the Times

The Western Colorado University women's basketball team earned its third straight Rocky Mountain Athletic Conference (RMAC) win after defeating Black Hills State with a final score of 56-51 on Jan. 25.

The Mountaineers won the tipoff, allowing senior Rachel Cockman to hit Brooklyn Seymour for an open layup and take the early lead. Junior Ivey Schmidt capitalized on a Black Hills miss, grabbed the defensive board and found sophomore Jayda Maves for a 3-pointer. The Yellow Jackets tied the game at 5-5 after back-to-back buckets.

Moments later, Western

gained an 18-13 advantage with 2 minutes left in the first quarter. Black Hills put up 6 consecutive points to take the lead 19-18 heading into the second.

Graduate Jayde Tschritter was immediately sent to the charity stripe to start the quarter, tying the game at 19 apiece. Two layups in a row for the Yellow Jackets extended their edge, but Cockman and Schmidt combined for 6 to make it a 1-point game.

Buckets were traded, but the Mountaineers were still down until sophomore Alyssa Eckroth hit a shot from behind the arch to equalize 30-30. Black Hills responded with a 3-pointer, but Cockman hit the last shot of the half to send the Mountaineers into the locker room down just a single point.

After the break, Cockman grasped the lead for Western with a turn-around jumper. Freshman Penelope Urquhart, junior Chloe Daniels and

Eckroth scored to push the Mountaineers up, 43-35.

Into the final quarter, the Mountaineers held a 4-point advantage. Seymour gave Western a 6-point cushion, but with 4 minutes left, the Yellow Jackets narrowed the gap to 50-49.

Cockman took charge, and polished off back-to-back layups to secure a 54-49 advantage with just 2 minutes on the clock. The Mountaineers overpowered the Yellow Jackets in the final moments to win 56-51. The Mountaineers will travel to face RMAC opponent University of Colorado, Colorado Springs on Thursday, Jan. 30 at 5 p.m.

(Drew Dunathan is the assistant athletics communications director at Western Colorado University, and can be reached at ddunathan@western.edu.)

Evan Bjornstad)

Basketball B6

Rachel Cockman fights to the rim. (Courtesy Western Colorado University)

GHS swim team cruises in the San Juans

The GHS swim team shined at the Durango High School Invite on Jan. 25. Facing off against the Durango Demons and Pagosa Springs Pirates, the Cowboys racked up points from its talented senior class and exciting underclassmen. Sam Jones led the team with 32 total points. The senior took first place in the 200-yard IM and the 100 breaststroke, and led the 200 freestyle relay team to a first-place finish alongside teammates Catalina Schwab, Maya Petrie and Audrey Meeuwsen. Aiden Tomlin also reached the summit of the podium. The junior placed first in the 100 freestyle with a time of 1:04.10. Freshman Elora Jones placed second in the 100 backstroke and third in the 200 freestyle, while fellow underclassmen Meeuwsen won the 100 butterfly. Junior Moriah Greenhalgh took second in the 100 breaststroke, and Petrie rounded out the team score with a second-place time in the 200 IM and third-place time in the 100 backstroke. Collectively, the Cowboys placed second with 280 points, just shy of the Durango Demons.

In his new book Life After Dead Pool, journalist Zak Podmore brings to life the magnificent terrain of canyon country and its complex water politics presenting an ultimately hopeful portrait of a Colorado River on the brink of rebirth In the words of the New York Times, Podmore shows how climate change in the Southwest offers the "opportunity for a more sustainable future ”

Kathryn Frey and Maya Petrie study the heat sheet at a home duel on Jan. 22. (Photos by Evan Bjornstad)

Sam Jones greets her teammates before a heat.

getting rebounds,” said Head Coach Chad Terry. “We’re also not getting rattled when the other team goes on a run, or things aren’t going well for us.”

Terry credited the girls leadership, and their ability to play as a team and share the basketball. Against Aspen, 10 girls contributed to the score, and seniors Kylee McDougal, Sienna Gomez and Yaslin Hernandez each put up double-digits.

“We’ve been playing together since seventh grade, so we have a really strong chemistry,” Hernandez said. “When some of us aren’t having our games, we know it’s time to pass the ball instead of shoot, and let other girls lead.”

Despite the back-to-back victories, the Cowboys faced a league rival against the 7-5 Miners. North Fork flew out of the gate to the rhythm of its home crowd, and took an immediate 10-2 lead. Still, the Cowboys remained calm at the rim, and answered the Miners hot offensive start. At the end of the first quarter, GHS flipped the score and led 13-12.

The Cowboys increased their lead by 2 points in the second quarter. Gomez took control on both sides of the court, finishing

plays at the rim and rebounding on defense. But the Miners walked into the locker room still within reach, trailing by just 3 points.

GHS stormed onto the court after the break and finally found separation from North Fork. Three-pointers from seniors Maria Sabas and McDougal fired the Cowboys ahead, and started the 15-point quarter. Junior Ashlyn Cowan and senior Hernandez added key buckets to the score to take a 38-28 lead. The Miners responded in the fourth and put together an 18-point quarter to compete until the very end. Still, the Cowboys fought back, and outscored the Miners 55-46.

Gomez’ 17 points and 13 rebound double-double, alongside 14 points from McDougal were key to the victory. Cowan and Hernandez rounded out the field with 9 points apiece.

The Cowboys put their win streak on the line against North Valley rivals Crested Butte on Jan. 28. Scores were not available by press time. Following a five-game away run, the girls will host Crested Butte on Feb. 12 at 5:30 p.m.

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

Titans hockey rebounds against Eagles

The Crested Butte Titans hockey team bounced back from an overtime loss to Pueblo County last week with a 5-1 away win over league rival Caprock Academy on Jan. 24. Goals in the opening period from Matej Voldan, Cobin O’Conner and Marshall Spann catapulted the Titans out to a 3-0 lead. In the second, the Crested Butte offense polished off the game with two more goals from O’Connor and Voldan. It ended 5-1 for the Titans, and moved the boys to a 3-12 overall record. Crested Butte will return to the Jorgensen Ice Rink on Jan. 31 at 7 p.m. to face Durango.

Eden Williams looks for a teammate.

Jonah Zobs passes the puck to Cole Hawley.

Max Dukeman and Carson Zummach race back on defense against Caprock Academy at home on Jan. 10. (Photos by Mariel Wiley)

Matej Voldan charges toward the boards.

Redford’s Treasure Fund supports endof-life care for pets

Mariel Wiley Times Photo Editor

For most pet owners — bar those with long-lived creatures like tortoises or parrots — saying goodbye to a furry best friend is a heartbreaking inevitability. But from a dog or cat’s point of view, their owner’s love and care encompasses their entire lives, especially as they near the end.

Pet owners want to make their animal’s twilight hours as comfortable and painless as possible, but veterinary end-of-life care can be costly. Local organization Redford’s Treasure Fund is aiming to make that experience more accessible by offering financial assistance to pet owners seeking end-of-life care for their animals. Since its inception, the fund has raised more than $30,000 dollars.

Redford’s Treasure Fund makes palliative veterinary care more accessible to pet owners without insurance. Pet owners or their pets’ veterinarians can apply for funding through the Gunnison Valley Animal Welfare League. While the fund is intended for use by Gunnison Valley

One dog’s treasure

residents, applicants from across the country may still apply.

Gunnison Valley resident Melanie Miller established the fund in Dec. 2023 with help from the Community Foundation of the Gunnison Valley, not long after the “love of her life,” a dog named Redford, lost his battle with cancer and a host of other diagnoses.

“He was this super handsome and kind golden retriever that would never hurt a fly,” Miller said. “I just wanted to leave a little legacy for him, because he meant so much to me.”

In the last year of Redford’s life, he became a patient of the Gunnison-based Home Together Veterinary Services. Home Together offers in-home treatment and is operated by Certified Hospice and Palliative Care Veterinarian Ashley Portmann.

The practice is broken into two branches: palliative care and hospice. Palliative care focuses on symptom and pain management following a serious injury or chronic illness. Hospice is palliative care for patients with terminal diagnoses.

This kind of care is important because it provides pet owners with a plan to manage their pet’s experience towards the end of their pet's life, as well as offering support and a little bit of hope, Portmann said.

“[Animals] don’t necessarily know that they have cancer. They probably feel different, but they

On X-Games mode

don’t know those scary things that are going on under the surface,” Portmann said. “But they live in the moment, and if we can keep those moments happy and positive … and make sure they’re staying comfortable, they just get a much better quality of life for, oftentimes, a lot longer.”

End-of-life care is a newer specialization in the veterinary field, having been established just over a decade ago, Portmann said. Because of this, many pet

owners aren’t aware that this is an option, oftentimes opting to have their animals put down in an effort to end their suffering.

This is compounded with the fact that palliative or hospice veterinary care can be costly, and isn’t always covered by pet insurance, if pet owners even have it in the first place.

“It’s expensive, and it felt like a luxury to have her [Portmann’s] support, knowledge and access to medicine to make Redford’s

life better for the last six to eight months of his life,” Miller said. “I had to learn how to give him shots and care, and Ashley made that possible. Me being able to pay for it also made that possible. I just wanted people to be able to have that time and to know that their pets would be taken care of.”

(Mariel Wiley can be contacted at 970.641.1414 or mariel@gunnisontimes.com.)

Crested Butte local Aaron Blunck put on a high-flying show while competing in the 2025 X-Games Men’s Ski SuperPipe on Jan. 25 in Aspen. For the first time this year, the X-Games introduced a new playoff structure into each of its events. Blunck placed eighth in the qualifying rounds, with his best run scoring 71.66 out of 100. Blunck did not continue on to finals following a hard fall during his second run. Earlier in the evening, snowboarder Chloe Kim tied snowboarder Shaun White’s record for the most gold medals ever won in the X-Games snowboard SuperPipe event. Both athletes have been awarded eight medals in the event.

(Photos by Mariel Wiley)

Redford with owner Melanie Miller near their home south of Crested Butte. (Courtesy Melanie Miller)

Your local newspaper has never been more important.

Please consider supporting quality journalism by subscribing to the Gunnison Country Times.