Gunnison Country Times, March 28, 2024

NEWS: RMBL receives $1 million for new research,

Valley’s first Spanish-speaking, licensed daycare opens in Gunnison

Daisdasa family child care center already at capacity

Abby Harrison Times Staff Writer

(Editor’s note: Mayte Burton acted as interview interpreter.)

Paola Tapia stood at the front of the small room, bouncing a child on her hip. At the same time, she spoke in Spanish to a crowd of parents sitting on a colorful rug, doing paperwork. She thanked them for allowing her to love their children like they’re her own.

As of mid-March, Tapia is Gunnison County’s first licensed family child care home provider whose native language is Spanish. A family child care home provider cares for kids in a home setting rather than a separate, usually larger space —

TODAY

NEWS: District Judge J. Steven Patrick to retire, A12

COMMUNITY: The grit behind Maciejko’s coaching legacy, B1

SPORTS: Spring Sports Preview, B6

OBITUARIES A2

OPINION A4

CLASSIFIEDS A15-A18

SPORTS B6

Western to offer nursing degree Program meant to ease valley’s years-long nurse shortage

Abby Harrison Times Staff Writer

By the fall of 2025, Western Colorado University will offer, for the first time, a full-time nursing degree and certification program. Administrators hope it will improve the persistent nursing shortage in the Gunnison Valley, exacerbated by a rising cost of living and pandemic-era retirements.

Last week, Western received just over $1.5 million from the Opportunity Now Colorado grant program, which is funneling $85 million into bolster-

ing Colorado's workforce. That money will help build out a program that allows nurses to be fully trained, and start practicing, locally.

Western intends to unveil a certified nurse aid (CNA) certificate program by this fall, followed by a traditional four-year Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) and an accelerated BSN program by the fall of 2025. The goal is to recruit 20 students each year for the traditional track, and 10 per year for the accelerated track and CNA certificate.

Gunnison Valley Health is supporting Western as it builds out the new program. The GVH Foundation Board committed $20,000 in scholarship money for the inaugural cohort in 2025 and will welcome students

Nursing A6

City resumes 3-mile plan process

Studies will show how much development city utilities can support

Bella Biondini Times Editor

After some delays, the City of Gunnison’s 3-mile planning process has resumed, this time with a focus on exactly how much development its existing utility system can support.

A 3-mile plan, required by state for all municipalities, covers the areas directly outside of city limits where Gunnison can “reasonably” expand, said City Manager Amanda Wilson. The city’s existing 3-mile plan was adopted more than 20 years ago, and needs to be updated. The ongoing project will create a set of building guidelines for future development on adjacent Gunnison County land that may eventually be annexed into the city. New construction in these areas needs to be compatible with the city’s land development code, and connect to Gunnison’s network of roads, utilities and sidewalks.

3-mile plan A8

(Left to right) Ruby Hernandez and her mother, Rosa sit with Mileivi Hernandez and her son, Darrel, at the Daisdasa Family Daycare on Monday, March 25. Owner Paola Tapia recently received her license to run the home-based child care center. Daisdasa is located on the west side of Gunnison. (Photo by Abby Harrison) Daycare A6

— Tami Maciejko, GHS swim coach

Partial boat ramp opening at Blue Mesa

The Lake Fork boat launch opened with limited hours and boat inspection services on March 25. Operational hours are 7 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. daily.

Starting on Saturday, March 30, full decontamination services will be available. To prevent aquatic invasive species from entering the reservoir, boats launched with electric or gaspowered engines are required to be inspected prior to launching.

Blue Mesa Reservoir has remained about 40% ice free this winter, and many anglers have been launching boats from shore to access the open waters. Since the reservoir is typically frozen over this time of year, inspection services are generally not available.

New Cranor Hill garage

The City of Gunnison is building a new storage garage at the Cranor Hill Ski Area to store its small, but expensive snowcat. The project, approved by city council on March 26, will cost just under $250,000.

The groomer does not fit in the existing shed and sits uncovered, and out in the elements year-round. According to Parks and Rec Director Dan Vollendorf, the snowcat is an “invaluable” piece of equipment. The city purchased it from Gunnison County roughly six years ago for a fraction of its market cost. It is unlikely the city could purchase another snowcat for less than $300,000, he said.

Correction

In “City receives $1.75 million for water treatment plant project,” the Times stated that the money the city received was congressional dollars from Sen. Michael Bennet, John Hickenlooper and Rep. Lauren Boebert. Boebert voted against the overall spending bill. The Times apologizes for the error.

Jan Mina Parker

On March 12, while backcountry skiing in the West Elk Mountains and in the arms of her husband, Jan Mina Parker died peacefully of natural causes.

Jan led a multi-dimensional life packed with interests and accomplishments. She had a successful career in electrical engineering before retiring in 2019. She traveled and experienced Europe and the Americas. She was a master gardener and adventurous cook. She was an athlete who competed in The Grand Traverse ski race with her husband and she was a ceramic artist, always exploring new techniques.

Jan was born Aug. 22, 1963 and grew up with her parents and siblings in Sioux Falls, South Dakota, where she graduated in 1981 from Washington

Truett Roy Summer

Truett Roy Summer was born to Nelle E. and Robert D. Summer of Gunnison on Jan. 26, 2024 at 3:51 p.m. He weighed 7 lbs., 8 oz. and measured 19 in. long at birth. He is welcomed by his grandparents, Bob and Lynn Summer

Senior High School. At the University of Minnesota (UMN) she earned a Bachelors of Science degree in Engineering. She met her husband, Marcel Medved, while they were both earning Master of Business Administration degrees, also at UMN. They were married in 1996.

Jan and Marcel lived in Minneapolis, Minnesota and Athens, Georgia before moving in 2005 to their mountain home in Crested Butte. Jan thrived in this active, creative and engaged community. She volunteered with organizations that reflected her love of the outdoors, the arts and her community. She found collaborative support for her artistic expression and process at the Crested Butte Clay Studio and the Paragon Gallery.

Jan is survived by her husband, Marcel Medved, her mother, Sue Rich Parker, her siblings, Joan Parker (Michael Makely) and James Stephen “Jim” Parker (Anne Hoeger Parker), as well as cousins, nieces and nephews. She is preceded in death by her father, James William Parker.

A celebration of life will be held on April 6 from 4-7 p.m. at the Crested Butte Nordic Center’s Magic Meadows Yurt.

and Jeni Rogers of Gunnison, Randy and Katy Foser of Grand Junction, Colorado and great-grandparents, Mari and Rod Rogers of Gunnison and Janet and David Brusman of Vandalia, Ohio. Truett is also welcomed by his big brothers, Charlie (6) and Everytt (3).

Alondra Medina Díaz

Alondra Medina Díaz was born to Gabriela Diaz Morales and Alvaro Medina Matias of Gunnison on March 5, 2024 at 10:18 p.m. She weighed 6 lbs., 7 oz. and measured 20 1/2 in. long at birth. She is wel -

A celebration of life will also be held in Minneapolis in August, details forthcoming. To honor Jan and in lieu of flowers, the family suggests sending donations to the Crested Butte Nordic Center or to an organization that reflects Jan’s loves and life.

Roger Keith Wright

Roger Keith Wright passed away peacefully at his home in Fruita, Colorado, on Jan. 8, 2024 at the age of 77. He was born on Dec. 26, 1946 in Gunnison to Wanda Mae (Lockhart) and Calvin “Dee” Wright. He grew up in Gunnison and graduated from Gunnison High School in 1965.

Roger worked at the Spencer and Hill Gas Station and the Westside Grocery Store. He also worked for the Gunnison, Glenwood Springs

comed by her grandparents, Crescenciana Morales Bernabé and Javier Soto Cayetano, Linda Medina Matias and Honorio Díaz Valentín, Ma. Camila Bernabé Zeferino and Aureliano Morales Matias and Lucia Valentín Vargas, all of El Nayar, Nayarit, México. Alondra is also welcomed by her big brother, Alonso Gael Medina Torres and big sister, Lucero Medina Díaz.

and Carbondale police departments, and in Carbondale for the Pitkin Iron Corporation at Mid-Continent Coal and Coke Company. His final career was driving a truck.

Roger married Phyllis Doyel in Dove Creek, Colorado, on March 2, 1996. He enjoyed spending time with family and his dogs, watching the Denver Broncos, fishing, hunting, camping, dancing and riding his Honda Gold Wing.

Roger is survived by his wife, Phyllis Wright, sons, Keith Wright (Angela), Kenny Wright (Kim) and Josh Quigley (Brandy) and siblings, Wanda “Marie” Evans (Lester “Ed”), Calvin Wright (Cindy) and Deanna Snyder (Richard). Extended family includes son, Kevin Eaton and daughters, Amber Sword-Burgess and Brandy Guthrie, 21 grandchildren and 16 great-grandchildren. Roger is preceded in death by his parents, Calvin “Dee” and Wanda Wright, grandson, Lee Wright and nephew, Wesley Snyder.

A celebration of life for Roger will be held on June 29, 2024 in Gunnison at 1 p.m. at the American Legion Post 54, located in Legion Park at 501 East Virginia Ave.

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Baker to face first degree murder charges in district court

Wickenhauser set for hearing, Danni headed for trial

Abby Harrison Times Staff Writer

Zachary Baker, 28, accused of killing two men near Blue Mesa in early May of 2023, will face two counts of first degree murder in Gunnison District Court. If he is found guilty on the charges, he could face life imprisonment.

By law, all felony charges in Colorado must be tried in district court — and Baker was initially charged with felony counts of first degree murder. However, before proceeding to trial, prosecutors must demonstrate that the evidence supports “probable cause” to justify classifying the offenses as felonies.

At a preliminary hearing on March 18, the court found this to be the case on both counts of first degree murder. At the hearing, the court admitted evidence and heard from Gunnison Sheriff’s Department Detective Skye Wells and Sheriff’s Deputy Ross Downs. Colorado Bureau of Investigation (CBI) agents Dave

Yocum and Ben Russell also testified.

On May 9 of 2023, the Gunnison County Sheriff’s Office arrested Baker in connection with the murder of Estefan Coronado, 33, of Fruita, Colorado and Colin Williams, 45, of Clifton, Colorado. According to an arrest affidavit, Baker shot the men from behind in a truck as it was traveling down Hwy. 50 near Sapinero in the early morning hours of May 8.

In October of 2023, Gunnison District Court Chief Judge Steven Patrick set bail at $500,000 for each of the two first degree murder charges — amounting to a bail of $1 million. Baker has been held in the Gunnison County Detention Center since he was arrested. The case is set for a plea hearing on March 28 at 11:30 a.m.

Wickenhauser, Danni Locals Bryan Wickenhauser and Dominic Danni were both arrested in September of 2023 on felony drug warrants. The men were accused of selling cocaine to undercover law enforcement officers at local music venue I Bar Ranch in August of 2023, according to an arrest affidavit.

Danni and Wickenhauser were charged with Illegal

Distribution of Schedule II Narcotics, a class 3 drug felony, and Conspiracy to Distribute Illegal Narcotics, a class 1 drug felony.

The Gunnison Police Department, joined by members of the 7th Judicial District Task Force (including agents from the Drug Enforcement Administration and Colorado Bureau of Investigation) made the arrests after multiple surveillance operations at I Bar Ranch. During those operations, both Danni and Wickenhauser allegedly sold undercover agents cocaine, according to the arrest affidavit.

Wickenhauser had an arraignment, or formal reading of the charges, on Feb. 22. His lawyer, Denver-based Ryan Brackley, initially waived his right to arraignment and requested extra time to review evidence in the case. Wickenhauser is set for a status hearing on April 8 at 9 a.m. His bond was set at $60,000 initially, and later reduced to $30,000.

Danni pleaded not guilty to both charges at a hearing on March 5 and requested a jury trial that has been scheduled for August 26-30 of 2024.

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

Winter lingers in Crested Butte

The sun rises over Mount Axtell outside of Crested Butte on Saturday, March 23. Crested Butte Mountain Resort closes in less than two weeks, but the spring backcountry season has just begun.

(Photo by Bella Biondini)

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Excited to serve

Editor:

I am appreciative of the chance to lead the Gunnison County GOP Republicans and serve the community.

I was elected to this position in December of 2023. Upon moving to this area, I knew I wanted to contribute as a public servant. Initially, I ran for the school board to serve the people in our community. I have been actively participating in the monthly GOP meetings for a few years now.

These meetings usually take place on the first Saturday morning of each month at Palisades Restaurant and are open to the public. We have engaged in various community events over time, and I am eager to enhance our community involvement further.

In the short time that I have been privileged to serve as a public servant, we have seen increased interest and are thankful for those who have volunteered to help enhance, develop and accomplish more in our community.

If you are interested in local, state and national affairs and wish to learn more about the local GOP group, please visit our website at gunnisoncountyrepublicans.org, or check out our Facebook page Gunnison County Republicans. I am excited to continue serving this group and our community.

Cori Dobson

Gunnison County GOP

Early detection saves lives

2024

2024 Member

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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.

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Together, let’s raise awareness, spread knowledge and encourage everyone to get screened because your health matters. If you need more information about colorectal cancer screening or any type of cancer support, please feel free to reach out to Living Journeys.

Julie Reid

Living Journeys

At the detriment of this state and its people

Editor:

The title of Jason Blevins’ article reads, "Two Colorado Parks and Wildlife commissioners confirmed despite opposition from hunters, recreation groups." This is from the March 12 issue of The Colorado Sun.

The two commissioners, Jessica Beaulieu and Jack Murphy, are Gov. Jared Polis' picks from last July. (There was a third, a Gary Skiba, but he resigned himself from consideration). Ms. Beaulieu is an attorney for the University of Denver's Animal Law Program, and Mr. Murphy manages the Urban Wildlife Rescue unit.

According to the article, Beaulieu testified before the state Senate in support of SB-31 in 2022 — calling for the banning of mountain lion hunting in Colorado — which failed to pass at the time. The supporters of SB-31 are now working to get it on this November's ballot.

the appointees. Will said the appointees had stirred 'social turmoil' that was hindering the agency's mission."

My concern is that traditional users of so-called "wild spaces" versus animal rights activists might get at each other's throats, thus hamstringing sound wildlife management at the detriment of this state and its people.

After my viewing a video of Gov. Polis speaking at the University of Denver's newly established Sturm College of Law, where one may earn an Animal Law Degree, I now believe that this "social turmoil" division Colorado Sen. Will named is foreboding of something worse.

Jon Matuszczak Gunnison

Learn about the Gunnison Basin Roundtable

Editor:

I am writing to highlight the crucial role of the Gunnison Basin Roundtable (GBRT) in water management discussions and solutions in western Colorado.

engaged in water education programming for children up to 18 years old in the Gunnison Basin.

As Colorado grapples with complex water challenges, the GBRT plays a vital role in fostering cooperation and innovation. By building relationships and leveraging local expertise, these entities pave the way for sustainable water management practices.

I encourage readers to visit gunnisonriverbasin.org/roundtable to learn more about the Gunnison Basin Roundtable and its bi-monthly meetings. For questions regarding the 2024 Water Education Grant, please email sunshinecreativesllc@gmail.com.

Savannah Nelson Gunnison Basin Roundtable

Democracy is worth defending

Editor:

Editor: Living Journeys provides financial assistance, emotional support and enrichment programs to Gunnison Valley residents affected by cancer. We are committed to helping individuals and families in their time of need, but wouldn't it be great if we didn't have to?

March is colorectal cancer awareness month and I am writing to remind everyone reading this to get screened if you're 45 or older, experiencing symptoms related to colorectal cancer (blood in stools, fatigue, weight loss) or have a family history. Sadly, two-thirds of deaths caused by colorectal cancer could have been prevented with proper screening.

Currently, colorectal cancer is now the No. 1 cause of cancer death in men and the No. 2 cause in women in adults under 50 and diagnoses are expected to increase by 140% in the next six years for that same demographic.

Early detection saves lives! There are a variety of tests, many of them affordable at home options, available depending on your risk factors. However, a colonoscopy is the “gold standard” because it can identify and remove polyps (the precursor to cancer) in the same procedure.

Mr. Blevins goes on to state that, "despite fierce opposition from Western Slope lawmakers, hunters and recreation groups," and in spite of them flooding "senators with emails and phone calls in the last week, urging a 'no' vote on the three appointees … ," the Democratcontrolled Senate confirmed two of them anyway.

What was telling was "State Senator Janice Marchman, a Democrat from Loveland, (who) read the top outdoor recreation activities listed in the 2019 Statewide Comprehensive Outdoor Recreation Plan, noting that hiking, camping, fishing, wildlife viewing, picnicking and running all ranked above the state's 18th most popular pursuit: hunting."

Perhaps Sen. Marchman was unaware of (or cares little about) the Colorado Wildlife Council's data which says that $3.25 billion in hunting and fishing revenue is brought into this state annually, along with an estimated 25,000 full-time jobs in all 64 counties. Another Colorado Democrat, Sen. Kevin Priola from Henderson, stated the obvious by saying (beyond hunting), lawmakers "need to be cognizant of other uses of wild spaces in our state."

According to Mr. Blevins, "Senator Perry Will, a Republican from New Castle, who (served) more than 40 years with Colorado Parks and Wildlife, spent almost an hour urging his colleagues to oppose

Covering over 8,000 square miles, the Gunnison Basin extends from the Continental Divide to GBRT facilitates water-related issues, education and collaborative solutions. It comprises a diverse group of stakeholders, ensuring representation from various sectors and interests. Alongside the Gunnison Basin, eight other basin roundtables exist throughout the state.

One of the key aspects of the roundtable structure is its membership composition, which emphasizes inclusivity and local representation, with appointed, at-large and non-voting members, and the Gunnison Basin director on the Colorado Water Conservation Board. The roundtables ensure that all stakeholders within the basin have a voice in decisionmaking processes.

The GBRT has established bylaws and leadership positions tailored to the unique needs of the Gunnison Basin. As part of its ongoing responsibilities, the GBRT undertakes comprehensive water needs assessments, collaborating with local governments and water providers to propose effective solutions.

The GBRT serves as a platform for public involvement, fostering transparency and engagement. In addition to conducting open meetings (every other month, including an upcoming meeting on May 20 in Montrose, available both in-person and via Zoom) and encouraging public participation.

The GBRT also offers opportunities for funding, including Water Supply Reserve Funds and its 2024 Water Education Grant (open until March 25), which is available for anyone

Two weeks ago, the Gunnison County Democrats held our Caucuses and County-wide Assembly. The atmosphere was fun, positive and hopeful! Among other matters, we nominated Jonathan Houck and Liz Smith to continue their great work as our county commissioners and Gunnison Country’s own Kathleen Curry as our candidate for the Colorado House District 58 seat.

We also unanimously adopted this statement as our guiding value for this year’s important election:

“Gunnison County Democrats believe that the economy should work for everyone, health care, including reproductive freedom, is a right, our diversity is our strength, and democracy is worth defending.”

We will remain positive, speak the truth and promote what good government can do. Who you vote for clearly makes a difference, and we urge all who are eligible to confirm your registration and to vote. Our democracy gives us that right and depends on it!

Jim Starr Gunnison County Democratic Party

Birthday bash

Six Points employees met at the Old Miner Steakhouse to celebrate Donnie Schneider’s 65th birthday on Wednesday, March 20. Schneider has been a Special Olympics athlete for decades, but is considering retirement after the 2024 games.

Putt-putt for the people

The Fred Field Center was transformed into a mini-golf course for the first annual Putt-Putt Challenge suicide prevention fundraiser on March 23. Over 20 local businesses made and donated putt-putt holes. After trying their hand at each hole, players voted for the most challenging, most creative and best overall putt-putt hole. All donations go toward a new Gunnison Valley men’s support group, Brothers Helping Brothers, which will soon host weekly dinners and outdoor activities.

(Photo by Mariel Wiley)

(Photos by Mariel Wiley)

Daycare

from A1

like the Tenderfoot Child and Family Development Center or Little Adventures Child Care Center (formerly Wonderland Nature School).

The years-long shortage of child care providers in the Gunnison Valley is compounded by a similar, if not greater, need for bilingual or Spanish-speaking providers.

Tapia’s center, Daisdasa Family Daycare, is located on the west end of Tomichi Avenue. The center is already at capacity with eight kids, ranging in age from 4 months to 10 years old.

“Daisdasa” is an anagram of her four kids’ names: David, Israel, Dara and Sara.

“This is a pilot project that we can be so proud of. Proud that [Tapia] can provide quality child care for our communities, for the Spanish community overall,” said Gunnison County Health Navigator Mayte Burton. Burton helped Tapia through the licensing process.

The demand for early child care education in the Gunnison Valley is escalating. Nearly every child care center in the valley has a waitlist — including children yet to be born. Since 2016, four child care home providers have shut down, equating to 30 spots lost in the

Nursing from

A1

for clinical rotations in each department — like Obstetrics or Medical-Surgical nursing.

The 8-10 week CNA program will be available to high school and university students, community members and existing GVH staff. Students who already have a bachelor’s or master's degree can complete the accelerated BSN in one year. The curriculum for the new programs have not been finalized, and the Western still needs approval from the Colorado State Board of Nursing.

“Without a doubt, introducing an innovative blend of nursing programs at Western is going to transform the landscape of health care across the Gunnison Valley and Western Slope,” said Exercise and Sports Science professor Lance Dalleck. Dalleck led the grant application.

A tiered approach

Last summer, Western received a $50,000 grant from the state to fund the planning. This $1.5 million will now help get the program off the ground by allowing Western to purchase equipment for clinical rotation training and hire faculty.

As the grant money dwindles, Western will shift spending to its general fund, and support the fledgling program with student tuition dollars. The university will continue to apply for grants and work with the Western and GVH foundations on long-term fundraising, Dalleck said.

Western already offers a pre-

Gunnison Valley. At the end of February, Wonderland Nature School folded after years of financial distress, and another center took its place.

Although Gunnison’s few child care centers can serve bilingual or Spanish-speaking families, their capacity to do so is limited without multiple Spanish-speaking staff members, said Lana Athey, coordinator at the Gunnison Hinsdale Early Childhood Council. The early childhood council works to expand early childhood services and education opportunities in both counties.

At least three child care centers in the valley have hired a staff member who speaks Spanish or is bilingual, Athey said. But at Daisdasa, children who have yet to learn English, or know very little, might feel more comfortable. Tapia speaks some English, but primarily communicates with children and families in Spanish.

“Now more children whose first language is Spanish are able to be cared for by someone who speaks their language and has a better understanding of their culture and traditions,” she said. “This allows for deeper connections.”

A mother’s mission

Tapia started looking after young children in 2020, after working in hotels and cleaning

nursing program as an emphasis in its biology department. In this track, students earn a biology degree with a focus on health care professions like nursing, medical technology or chiropractic care. But those students have to eventually leave the valley if they want to complete a BSN degree.

They usually continue their education at University of Colorado, Adams State College or Colorado Mesa University, if not out of state, said biology lecturer and health professions advisor Emily McMahill.

“Either way, they had to go somewhere else to complete the process,” McMahill said. “That was a driving force of [focusing on] people who want to be trained locally, and are interested in staying in the surrounding rural areas.”

Western’s new programs will create a “tiered” approach that allows students, current health care workers or retired people to start or continue their nursing education. New students could begin a four-year degree, while nursing assistants or older residents can go back to school to get certified.

“The idea behind the three programs was to show that we could quickly be responsive to the needs of nursing shortages, and that there were also long-term, sustained pathways for getting nurses into rural locations, including here in the Gunnison Valley,” Dalleck said.

Western is working with GVH to shape its CNA certificate course. In Colorado, nurse aids don’t need state certification to practice, but it increases their salary range and improves patient care if they do, McMahill said. Certification has always

houses. Years of getting home with only enough time to put her kids to bed chipped away at her, she said. Most days, her daughter cried herself to sleep.

“I realized that my daughter was growing so fast, and that I needed to be with her,” Tapia said. “So I started taking care of her. [Soon], I started taking care of kids for other people.”

Tapia started as a family,

been required in a skilled nursing facility, like the Senior Care Center. GVH hires non-certified nurses at the hospital, but then helps them become certified, said Vice President of Operations Wade Baker.

The nursing program will initially be housed in Hurst Hall, home to Western’s biology programs. The long-term vision is to have a standalone “satellite” space for the nursing program, Dalleck said. GVH executives are looking at its property to determine if they could offer that additional classroom space, and even help with renovation, Baker said.

“GVH is committed to looking at GVH-owned space to be used for this,” he said.

‘Grow our own, keep them here’

Staffing shortages in the valley’s health care field have spanned years. The pandemic spurred a wave of burnoutbased retirements, and the health care industry has yet to recover, said Chief Nursing Officer Nicole Huff.

Each year, prospective doctors and nurses have declined jobs at GVH because they can’t find an affordable place to live. Even as GVH continues to build and buy houses — now up to 37 units — for health care workers, the housing market continues to present a runaway challenge for all public and private employers.

As of this month, GVH currently has over 60 open fulltime positions, with nursing and nursing support roles representing just over half of those vacancies. The persistent shortages have forced GVH to spend over $1 million dollars on traveling nurses over the years. Although

friend and neighbor (FFN) caregiver, an informal, but more flexible and affordable option for families. The designation includes neighbors, friends and grandparents who look after young children. These providers are legally exempt from having a license, and can serve up to four children at home.

More than half of all Colorado families rely on FFN

child care, according to the Colorado Department of Early Childhood. The early childhood council offers an FFN support group for providers in the Gunnison Valley. Here, they receive CPR classes, classroom materials and get connected with educational courses on early childhood.

continued on A7

tighter budgeting and increased recruitment and retention efforts has allowed GVH to reduce its spending on travelers since last year, the number of vacancies has not improved.

Western administrators and GVH executives have toyed with the idea of a nursing program for decades, Baker said. With the addition of Western’s nursing degree program, GVH can cultivate workers locally. Many staff leave the valley to pursue a nursing career and don’t come back, as nurses are often recruited for jobs during clinical rotations, Huff said.

“It's really hard to come back here, especially with the economy the way it is, or they get hired on into a bigger hospital,” she said. “We are hoping to grow our own and keep them here.”

GVH already offers a CNA certificate program through its Senior Care Center, the larg -

est user of CNAs in the system. Technical College of the Rockies also offers the program. Western’s new program is likely to take some pressure off current instructors, Baker said.

“Oftentimes, we only have one instructor,” Baker said. “And that instructor is usually a nurse that works on the floor. It creates all sorts of challenges. Having a partner like Western that could would be a great compliment … It's hard to think we can have too many CNA classes.”

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

A child climbs new furniture in Daisdasa’s playroom. (Photos by Abby Harrison)

Students sit in a Western Colorado University nutrition class on March 26. Nutrition is currently a required class in the pre-nursing track.

(Photo by Abby Harrison)

Although the exact number of FFN providers is hard to quantify, Athey estimates there are at least 10. Tapia started attending some of these workshops, which spurred an interest in becoming licensed.

Tapia applied for her license with the support of staff from Gunnison County Health and Human Services and the early childhood council. The license process meant months of late nights and over 50 hours of online coursework, not including studying or homework.

“I didn't have much patience with my kids. I didn't understand their behaviors until I started studying ... I now approach them when they start to calm down, and start asking them what happened,” Tapia said.

She put any money earned right back into her child care business. A license required additional regulations for her space, forcing her to renovate. She soon rented the downstairs area in her apartment building and began outfitting it with child care necessities: changing stations, cubbies and tiny chairs and tables.

“This is the thing that we need, giving people the power to make any dream come true,” Burton said. “When we immigrate, we don't know what we are going to do in another country. And this is a really rewarding job.”

Licensed child care home providers have more access to funding and coaching opportunities, and can look after more kids, Athey said. It also increases a provider’s credibility, as they’re governed by state regulations and receive child carespecific education. Including Tapia, there are now six licensed family child care home providers in Gunnison County.

“We’re trying to grow more home providers,” Athey said. “We thought if a lot of these women in the FFN group are Spanish-speaking, we’re can increase access to licensed care for more families while supporting individuals in creating a business.”

Tapia signed on to accept families under the Colorado Child Care Assistance Program (CCCAP), which helps parents or guardians who are working, homeless or in school, get a portion of their child care costs covered. The coverage is determined by their income level. Reimbursement rates from the state tend to lag behind private payer rates, but Tapia said she always wants to accept CCCAP families.

“I’d rather have a kid smile, than any money in the world,” she said. “I love being with them. I love to be here. I finish tired, but I will do it every day.”

Tapia’s work starts early and ends late. After the children are dropped off by their parents each morning, it’s an endless stream of singing and dancing, changing diapers, eating and napping. Each child at Daisdasa gets two meals and two snacks before going home each day. After the kids leave, Tapia’s two youngest kids play while her older son, Israel, helps her clean and disinfect the space.

Her long-term vision is to serve more kids by moving into a larger space. She hopes to accept more CCCAP families, as well. Those interested in learning more about FFN or getting a license can contact the early childhood council at 970.641.3244.

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

Tapia speaks to parents.

continued from A6

But the Public Works Department has not yet studied the city’s ability to actually deliver utilities to these areas — an essential piece of future planning in the 3-mile area. The department hopes to have preliminary data by the summer.

Since the city’s last 3-mile plan, several boundary lines have changed, including the annexation of Gunnison Rising to the east of town and the VanTuyl Ranch to the west. City and county officials hope the new plan will make the building permit review process in this zone more efficient, and help limit urban sprawl.

“It's not necessarily about creating barriers, it's more about creating opportunities for what our community really needs, such as housing or a ‘makerspace’ for people that might have a small welding business … Rather than every little thing having to go through a six-month long review process,” said Gunnison County Planning Director Hillary Seminick.

The city and the county started the update in September of 2022 with “sub-area” planning, which targeted the areas experiencing the most development pressure from builders. This included land directly north along Hwy. 135 (named the North Gateway Community) and west of Gunnison along Hwy. 50 (West Gateway). The city recently added a parcel south of VanTuyl Ranch.

The 3-mile update started with the community’s conceptual vision for these areas. With input from residents, the planning team decided which areas could eventually house neighborhoods and apartment complexes and which could become commercial and industrial zones. The draft also estimates the density of new development, or the number of housing units and buildings city infrastructure could support.

The city is not considering the annexation of the 3-mile area in its entirety, Wilson said. But because the 3-mile zone is much larger than the city boundaries (which is less than 5 square miles), the planning team has to determine which areas the city can actually serve with utilities. It is also constrained by bordering public lands and the natural boundary created by the Gunnison River.

“Three miles is huge,” Wilson said. “It's not when you're looking at Denver, or when you're

talking about pretty much anywhere in the Front Range … The city is not going to serve utilities within this giant three mile boundary, because there's physical constraints to it that just make it not feasible. We have to figure out where that line is.”

Builds in rural areas are subject to fewer regulations, and typically rely on individual wells and septic systems. When builders approach the city and ask for their property to be annexed, it's often because they want utilities, Wilson said. But if the city doesn’t know how and if it can connect new builds to water, sewer and electricity, it can delay projects and potential annexation agreements.

The planning team terminated its contract with design consultant Houseal Lavigne in October of 2023, stalling the project until this year. According to Wilson, the company wasn’t a “good fit.” The city and county are now working with Colorado-based Design Workshop, the same consultant that is working on the Crested Butte to Crested Butte South trail.

The planning team expects the 3-mile plan to be finished by 2025. This summer, the city will work with separate consultants to create models that will show how much growth the city’s existing utilities can support and where expansions would be needed.

“I'm excited to move forward on this,” Gunnison City councilor Matt Schwartz said during a meeting on Feb. 27. “We're going to get a lot better quality development all around the city as the demand continues to rise.”

At the center of the 3-mile plan is a community-based vision of what future development will look like along Gunnison's main corridors. At prior public meetings, residents have expressed a desire to see infill and to avoid urban sprawl into the surrounding farmlands and open space.

“What we've heard from the community as a whole — if there's anything that people are absolutely unanimous upon — it's for action to be taken to mitigate sprawl,” said Community Development Director Anton Sinkewich. “They don't want to see the outskirts of Gunnison growing to look like anywhere in America.”

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

The 3-mile radius around Gunnison is highlighted in yellow. (Courtesy City of Gunnison) 3-mile

Farmers to the front

Poets, many wearing straw hats, filled the Western University Center Theater to share nature-themed verses for the Farm and Garden Poetry Slam on March 23. The writers donned their finest workwear for a “dress like a farmer” contest to win farm-fresh eggs and locally-grown tulips. The Gunnison Valley Producers’ Guild hosted the event.

‘Matter

(Photos by Mariel Wiley)

The California-based EDM giant Vandelux performed to a soldout crowd at Public House in Crested Butte on

March 21.

(Photos by Bella Biondini)

Hyper-spectral images to shed light on the future of Gunnison’s forests

RMBL receives $1 million for new research

Bella Biondini Times Editor

An aerial photo of the East River watershed shows trees and open meadows in varying shades of green. But looking through an infrared lens, the trees quickly change color, some aspen illuminated in bright blue, and others in yellow. Although these shades are invisible to the human eye, the trees’ unique color signatures contain clues about how the Gunnison Valley’s forest may be altered by drought and wildfire in the decades to come.

New research at Gothic’s Rocky Mountain Biological Laboratory (RMBL) using hyper-spectral imagery will give scientists a better understanding of how climate change will impact forests in the Upper Colorado River Basin. The project is backed by just under $1 million in congressionally directed spending from Sen. Michael Bennet and John Hickenlooper. Planning is set to begin this year.

“As Colorado and the West

face the worsening effects of climate change, this funding will support the Rocky Mountain Biological Laboratory’s work to manage the Colorado River Basin water and forest health to meet our state’s changing needs,” Bennet said in a press release on March 12.

The money will pay for the collection of hyper-spectral images in portions of the Taylor and East River drainages in 2025. While a regular camera only captures red, green and blue, this remote sensor, mounted on an airplane, breaks up the light reflecting off trees,

soil and the wider landscape with more than 400 bands of color. The result is a high resolution neon image.

The technology, part of a new wave of rapidly advancing sensors that will soon be mounted on satellites, was pioneered by NASA. These hyper-spectral sensors cost tens of millions of dollars apiece and are placed on planes flown by the Boulderbased National Ecological Observatory Network. The organization maintains only a few of these sensors, which are in high demand across the country.

Adding to the scientific story

In hyper-spectral images, tree species have different color signatures. Scientists use the colors to infer how much water is present in a tree’s canopy and leaf structure and the amount of photosynthesis occurring. In early stages of environmental stress, trees will start to lose water from their tissue and drop leaves, said Ian Breckheimer, RMBL’s project lead. Photosynthesis is the tree’s ability to capture sunlight and grow, another mark of its overall health.

Studying these features will

allow RMBL to predict which trees are likely to die, and map areas that are suffering from beetle kill or are at a higher risk of wildfire. It will also help researchers see how water moves through the mountain system after the snow melts.

While forests provide timber, habitat for wildlife and opportunities for outdoor recreation, they are also instrumental in what happens to the region’s snowpack, Breckheimer said.

“One of the biggest uncertainties is how well forests in

continued on A11

1105 N Pine St., MLS #810392, $845,000. Welcome to your dream home in the picturesque

Van Tuyl Village subdivision! This brand-new, 3-bedroom, 2.5-bathroom property is a testament to modern design and quality craftsmanship. As you step inside, you’re greeted by an open and inviting kitchen-dining 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!

1105 N. Pine OPEN HOUSE!

Come check out this newly built home in the Van Tuyl neighborhood. Snacks and beverages will be provided and you can enter to win a $50 gift certificate from Natural Grocer. There will be 2 open houses: Thursday April 11th 3- 6 PM and Saturday April 13th 11-2 PM. See you there!

Hyper-spectral imagery allows researchers to make detailed maps of different plant types. This section of meadow and floodplain southwest of RMBL looks fairly uniform in a true color image (left), but a hyper-spectral image from 2018 (right) reveals meadows with very different plant species. (Courtesy Ian Breckheimer/RMBL)

continued from A10

the Upper Colorado River Basin are going to be able to deal with increasing drought and climate change,” he said. “This project is one powerful way of adding to the scientific story that will help us tease that apart.”

This is not the first time RMBL has captured hyperspectral images of the East River Basin. In 2018, the same crew did a similar airborne survey — one of the first in a mountain environment. Collecting a second data set in 2025 will give researchers a snapshot of seven years of change, allowing the RMBL team to ask a new set of questions about the future.

“What are the things we could see in 2018 that were predictive of forest mortality, the encroachment of willows into the alpine or the spread of sagebrush into environments that were formerly meadow?”

Breckheimer said.

Scaling up Western Colorado University students will have a chance to participate in the project thanks

to a new partnership between RMBL and Western’s Rady School of Engineering. Students will help RMBL interpret the massive pools of data the project is expected to produce. Rady’s incoming aerospace program, set to start in the fall of 2025, will also help RMBL prepare for the arrival of the next generation of satellites.

“Field biologists are often out there with a notebook and pen collecting data … Now, with these advancements in remote sensing, engineering opens up ways that we can see the world,” said RMBL Executive Director Ian Billick.

Remote sensing is the acquisition of information from a distance, often using satellites or drones. New technology is expected to expand the limits of field biology, allowing scientists to substantially scale up the measurements they take in the field, Billick said. For example, RMBL researcher David Inouye has been using small plots around Gothic to monitor the timing and abundance of the blooms of more than 100 species of wildflowers for nearly

five decades.

Inouye will continue to collect long-term data from his observations that cannot be replicated with remote sensing. But with the rise of increasingly powerful drones and satellites, scientists may eventually be able to measure plant flowering times for the whole basin, rather than just isolated plots around Gothic.

The increasing scale of the data available is a “fundamental step forward” for field science and understanding how the earth works, Billick said.

“We've really struggled to figure out how to connect the different pieces of the ecosystem because we were locked into the scale of human observation … It's a real transformation in how field science is done. It's not a matter of degree, to where we'll just have a lot more information, we'll actually be able to ask completely new questions.”

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

Amanda Henderson (RMBL) dips a plant sample in liquid nitrogen for chemical analysis during the 2018 hyperspectral imaging study at RMBL. Lab measurements of leaf chemistry help interpret the data from overhead flights.

Judge Patrick to retire after three decades

Departure

creates district court vacancy on Western Slope

Judge J. Steven Patrick, a chief judge for the 7th Judicial District, will step down on July 1, 2024. His retirement will mark 33 years of service in western Colorado, and nearly five decades as a lawyer.

The 7th Judicial District includes Delta, Gunnison, Hinsdale, Montrose, Ouray and San Miguel counties. A district judge serves an initial provisional term of two years after being appointed by the governor. Afterward, the incumbent judge faces a formal election and if voted in, serves a six-year term.

Colorado’s constitution mandates that district judges retire by the age of 72, and Judge Patrick recently turned 70. Rather than wait for the approaching deadline, he made the choice to step down. He was first appointed as Gunnison District Judge in January of 1993 and last elected in 2020.

Patrick attended Yale Law School in the mid-70s, around the same time as Supreme Court justices Clarence Thomas, Samuel Alito and Sonia Sotomayor.

“One of the attractive things [about being a judge] was that rather than advocating for a particular position, you're trying to apply the law to the facts,” he said.

Judge Patrick lives in Gunnison. He worked at a law firm in Denver for a while before moving to Gunnison in 1979 for some “trial experience.” He planned to return to the Front Range, but like many who move to Gunnison, he never left.

He served in the Gunnison District Attorney's Office from 1979-1981, before spending a decade in private practice. He was appointed as Gunnison District Judge after serving as Gunnison County Judge and Municipal Judge for Gunnison, Crested Butte and Mt. Crested Butte.

Throughout the decades, one difficult part of the job remained steady: It’s nearly impossible to predict people’s behavior, he said.

“[You don’t know] whether someone is likely to learn from an experience and be successful in life, or whether they're going to do whatever punishment is

imposed, and continue to conduct themselves in a similar fashion … You can't predict the future, and it makes all those kinds of decisions very hard,” he said.

The 7th Judicial District Nominating Commission will meet at the Montrose County Justice Center on April 29 to interview and select the nominees. Gov. Jared Polis will then appoint the new judge. The current annual salary for this position is just over $193,000.

The members of the nominating commission include two Gunnison Valley residents: Sally Hays of Gunnison and Aaron Huckstep of Crested Butte. It also includes Paul Major of Telluride, David Inouye of Hotchkiss, Alvin Lutz of Lake City, and Anna Cooling and Martha Whitmore, both of Montrose.

To be eligible, the applicant must be a U.S citizen who meets voting registration requirements, also called a “qualified elector,” in the 7th Judicial District. They must have practiced law in Colorado for at least five years.

“The legal system is always evolving,” Judge Patrick said. “But we have core principles tied largely to the Constitution. [We have] the presumption that our system is fair and people have an opportunity to have their disputes resolved by a system that's not based on power, money or station in life.”

The completed application must be submitted by 4 p.m. on April 8. To suggest a candidate, a letter must be submitted to a member of the nominating commission by 4 p.m. on April 1.

Applications are available on the Colorado Judicial Branch’s home page: courts.state.co.us/ Careers/Judge.cfm.

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

(Courtesy Dana Petri)

Slush fest

Sledders and shredders braved the slush during the 2024 Sleds and Kegs party in Crested Butte on March 23. Riders whizzed down a snowy chute on sleds as the nearby crowd danced to live DJ sets. The dress code included neon vintage ski gear, light-up cowboy hats and the finest speed shades. Proceeds from the event were donated to Crested Butte nonprofits.

Bethany Church

909 N Wisconsin St. (behind Powerstop) • 970-641-2144

Two services at 9 a.m. and 10:30 a.m.

FREE lunch for college students following the 10:30 a.m. service gunnisonbethany.com

9 a.m.: Family Service with nursery & children’s church

Check out our website for updates!

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

B'nai Butte Congregation

PO Box 2537 Crested, Butte CO 81224 305-803-3648 bnaibutte.org

Serving the Jewish communities of Crested Butte, Gunnison and the East River Valley in Colorado Spiritual Leader Rabbi Mark Kula is available for you at RabbiMarkKula@gmail.com bnaibutte@gmail.com

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

Faith Directory

Community Church of Gunnison

107 N. Iowa • 970-641- 0925

Pastor Larry Nelson

Christmas Eve Service 7:00 p.m.

Sunday Morning Worship 9:30 a.m.

Weekend Services 9:30 a.m.

Nursery & Age-Graded Ministry

Weekly Student Ministry

Weekly Adult LifeGroups

Office Hours: Mon-Thurs, 9-4

For more info: ccgunnison.com or email info@ccgunnison.com

Join us in-person, listen to our broadcast on 98.3 FM, or view online stream on YouTube

Transforming Lives • Building Community

First Baptist Church

120 N. Pine St. • 970-641-2240

Pastor Jonathan Jones

9:30 a.m.

Share & Prayer Fellowship

10 a.m.

Sunday School Classes

11 a.m. Morning Worship Service

6 p.m. Evening Service

Wednesday 7 p.m. - Children's Patch Club

Gunnison Bible Institute

Thursday 7 p.m. - College & Career Christian Fellowship firstbaptistgunnison.org.

Church of Christ

600 E. Virginia • 970-641-1588

Sunday Morning Bible Class: 9:30 a.m.

Sunday Morning Worship: 10:30 a.m.

Sunday Evening Worship: 6 p.m.

Wednesday Night Bible Class: 7 p.m.

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

Children’s Christmas Program

Sunday, December 17th at 10 a.m.

Christmas Eve Candlelight Service at 7 p.m. Christmas Day Service at 10 AM

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.

Rocky Mountain

Christian Ministries

1040 Highway 135 (1/4 mile N. of Spencer Ave.) • 970-641-0158

Sunday Morning Worship 9:30 a.m.

Nursery and Children’s ministry through Middle School

“Remedy” Worship Nights Small Group Ministries mcmchurch.org

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 Mass Service, Sun. at 10 a.m.

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

(Photos by Mariel Wiley)

EC ELECTRIC IS SEEKING

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

Top pay & Benefits.

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

www.ec-electric.com/careers

GUNNISON WATERSHED SCHOOL DISTRICT

See GWSD website for details

gunnisonschools.net

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

HOURLY OPPORTUNITIES:

Bus Drivers

Food Service

Lead Custodian - Lake School Substitute Teachers

PROFESSIONAL OPPORTUNITIES:

School Psychologist - District Newcomer Teacher and Integration Specialist

COACHING:

GHS - Speech and Debate

GHS - Assistant Girls

Basketball Coach

GMS Track and Field Coach - (Shot Put and Discus) (Sprints and Long Jump)

Please contact:

Superintendent’s Office

JoAnn Klingsmith

800 N. Boulevard 970-641-7760

jklingsmith@gunnisonschools.net

GUNNISON COUNTY EMPLOYMENT OPPORTUNITIES

Motor Vehicle/Recording

Technician Clerk and Recorder: 40 hours/ week, hourly rate range from $21.82-$24.85 plus full benefits.

Case Management Aide

HHS: 40 hours/week, monthly salary range from $4,966-$6,037 plus full benefits.

Caseworker I

HHS: 40 hours/week, monthly salary range from $5,263-$6,399, plus full benefits.

Public Health Nurse II –Substance Abuse Prevention

Juvenile Services: 20 hours/ week, hourly rate range from $33.79-$41.08 plus partial benefits.

Seasonal

Public Works: Guaranteed 40 hours/week, hourly rate range from $20.58-$23.43 depending on experience, plus partial benefits.

Outdoor work that includes traffic control, fencing, tree and brush removal, trail work, recycling, equipment training and much more, all in a 4-day work week.

Patrol Deputy

Sheriff: Full-time, 40 hours/week, monthly salary range from $5,857$6,669 plus full benefits.

Detention Deputy

Sheriff: Full-time, 40 hours/week, monthly salary range from $5,263$5,992 plus full benefits. Only work 14 days a month.

West Central Public Health Partnership (WCPHP)

Capacity Coordinator: Part-time, 10-20 hour per week, hourly rate range from $28.64$32.62 plus partial benefits.

Heavy Equipment Operator I: Full-time, 40 hours/week, hourly rate from $22.91-$26.08 plus full benefits.

Seasonal Weed Program Technician: 40 hours/week, for 6 months. This seasonal position is set to start in May and end in Oct., hourly range from $22.91-$26.08 plus partial benefits.

Permit and

Right-Of-Way Manager:

Full-time, 40 hours/week, monthly salary range from $5,857-$7,120 plus full benefits.

Landfill Foreman: Full-time, 40 hours/week, hourly rate from $31.88-$36.29 plus full benefits.

Accountant I

Accounts Receivable:

Full-time, 40 hours/week, monthly salary range from $4,684-$5,333 plus full benefits.w

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

CITY OF GUNNISON EMPLOYMENT OPPORTUNITIES

Chief Water Operator

Full-time, $72,800-$85,500/yr

Leads Water department staff and performs a variety of skilled technical duties and skilled labor in the operation and maintenance of the city’s nine (9) potable water wells, water distribution system, wastewater collections system, irrigation ditches, etc.

Construction Project Manager Full-time $83,200-$112,400/yr

This is a temporary, full-time position that is anticipated to be renewed annually for technical oversight for a 5-7 year long, $50 million, multi-phased design and construction program for the city’s water system improvements project.

Police Officer

Full-time, $68,900-$93,100/yr

$33.13-$44.76/hr

Performs technical, professional, and administrative duties related tomaintaining the security of the city, protecting constitutional guarantees of all persons, protecting life and property, preserving public peace and order,preventing, solving and detecting crimes, facilitating the safe movement of people and vehicles and other emergency services as needed. POST Certification not required. The city will pay for the police academy if needed and pay a cadet wage of $50,900 while attending the academy. Includes a $15,000 signing bonus. Increased wages over above-listed salary available for working nights. Personal liability insurance paid by the City of Gunnison. Housing is available.

Part-Time Openings:

Special Events/Project

Assistant - Up to $24.23/hr.

Tree Dump GatekeeperUp to $24.23/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.

professional general contractor seeks full-time, detail-oriented carpenters for a variety of carpentry needs, including back out framing, finish trim work, custom millwork and potential for other custom work. Competitive salary DOE, fuel stipend, vacation pay, health insurance, ski pass among top benefits. Please submit resume to david@davidgrossgc.com or call 970901-1798.

INFANT TEACHERS: Tenderfoot Child and Family Development Center is adding staff members to our infant team. Both lead and assistant teacher positions available to work with children from birth-18 months old. Parttime and full-time positions with paid time off, free child care and continuing education. $15.42 - $21.93/hour, depending on experience. Email tfootdirector@gmail.com or call 970-642-1949 for more information. EOE.

NTERPRISES OF MONTROSE LLC.

NOW HIRING:

APPRENTICES, RESIDENTIAL WIREMAN, JOURNEYMAN ELECTRICIANS

Skills/qualifications:

• High-end residential and commercial experience a MUST.

• Team player

• Physical, hands-on environment

• Must have basic hand tools.

• Employer will provide specialty tooling.

EXCELLENT WAGES AND BENEFITS!

Please email a resume to reception@raelectric.com.

Gunnison.

LAKE CITY, COLORADO APPRENTICE LINE WORKER POSITION AT GCEA: Gunnison County Electric Association, Inc. is currently seeking applications for an apprentice line worker position. This is a full-time position that will be reporting to the Lake City, CO, outpost location. This position will assist with the installation, repair and maintenance of overhead and underground electrical power lines and auxiliary equipment. The pay range for a lineman position is between $88,608-$118,144 a year. Starting pay will be dependent on qualifications and experience and will be paid on an hourly basis. Pay increases over time are based upon progress. Being oncall on a regular basis as well as working overtime hours is required. On-call, outpost and applicable overtime pay will apply. Upon meeting eligibility requirements, this position offers health care benefits, retirement benefits, paid time off and paid scheduled holidays. To see the complete list of duties and qualifications and to learn how to apply, please see our website at:gcea.coop (about tab, careers section). Deadline to apply is April 9, 2024.

ROCKY MOUNTAIN TREES AND LANDSCAPING now hiring for our 40th summer season. Come join a team that’s deeply rooted in the Gunnison Valley. Visit rockymountaintrees.com/employment/ to view available positions.

QUICK DRAW CLEANING is hiring carpet, duct and window cleaning technicians. $2230/hour, full and part-time. Serving all of Gunnison County and Lake City, a clean driver’s license is a must. Please email resume to djquickdraw@yahoo.com.

GARDENING EMPLOYMENT: Butte-iful

Gardens is hiring for the 2024 season. Looking for individuals who are available May-Oct. Previous garden experience preferred but not required. Ability to lift 50 lbs. Ability to work independently or with a group. Positive, easy going attitude a must. Pay starts at $25 an hour and goes up from there. If interested, please contact butteifulgardens@gmail.com.

ELEVEN IS SEEKING A PERSONABLE AND TEAM-ORIENTED WELLNESS

THERAPIST to provide wellness treatments, classes and activities for Eleven guests at Scarp Ridge Lodge, Sopris House, Taylor River Lodge and the Movie Cabin located in and around Crested Butte and Almont, CO. This role will embody the Eleven standard by exceeding guest expectations in all areas of the service, ensuring comfort, satisfaction, and safety for guests while remaining professional. This position requires certification, CPR/First-aid certification, and a valid driver’s license. The ideal candidate will be a flexible team player and interact positively with high-expectation clients, as well as quickly learn to effectively operate software systems. This is a part-time, seasonal position starting at $100-$222 per wellness treatment, depending on the treatment type. The summer season runs May through October. For more information and to apply, please visit elevenexperience. com/careers.

CONSTRUCTION LABORER: David Gross

General Contractor is hiring full-time, hourly construction laborers. Duties include driving dump trailers, job site cleaning, receiving and handling of materials and variety of other needs. Must have current driver’s license. Please submit resume to david@ davidgrossgc.com or call 970-901-1798.

DESIGN-ORIENTED GARDENING

BUSINESS is looking for a full-time seasonal operations manager. Experience in perennial garden design, greenhouse care and crew management necessary. Please email resumes to horizonfinegardens@ gmail.com or 970-275-1020.

INTEGRATIVE DENTISTRY in Crested

Butte is looking for a full or part-time dental assistant position to join our fun, high-energy, passionate dental team. Pay is dependent on experience, however no dental experience is necessary. Benefits are available to fulltime employees. Send your resume to info@ integrativedentistrycolorado.com.

INTERESTED IN A CAREER WITH BENEFITS? The Gunnison Bank and Trust, 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/hr. DOE. Robust benefits package includes 401(k), medical insurance, vision insurance, life insurance and disability insurance (ST and LT). Send resume to LBeda@gunnisonbank.com.

LOCAL LAWN CARE SERVICE COMPANY looking for full-time, seasonal employee, four 10 hr. shifts, Tues.-Fri., May through Oct. Zero turn mower operation, grass trimming and general yard maintenance experience preferred. Sprinkler system knowledge and

maintenance a plus. Pay range $20-30

DOE. Submit resume or contact j2funke@ gmail.com.

HIGH-VOLUME, PROFESSIONAL GENERAL CONTRACTOR seeks fulltime, experienced controller with 5+ years experience. Duties include overseeing general ledger and accounting functions, balance sheet reconciliation, maintaining accounting systems access controls and oversight of accounting managers including accounts receivable, accounts payable, billings functions and payroll preparation. Successful candidates will be detail-oriented and proactive in our fast-paced environment, with proficiency in Quickbooks and experience in ProCore a bonus. Competitive base salary and benefits. Please submit resume to david@davidgrossgc.com or call 970-901-1798.

STAFF ENGINEER POSITION: Gunnison

County Electric Association is currently seeking applications for a staff engineer. This is a full-time position that will be reporting to the Gunnison Headquarters location. This position ensures future capacity needs are met and that the system is built using proper specifications. This position has supervisory duties. This is a salaried or exempt position, and the pay range is between $119,250$159,000 annually. Actual compensation offer to candidate may vary outside of the posted hiring range based upon work experience, education and/or skill level. Upon meeting eligibility requirements, this position offers health care benefits, retirement benefits, paid time off and paid scheduled holidays. To see the full job description and qualifications needed as well as to learn how to apply, please visit our website at gcea.coop/about-us/careers. Deadline to apply is April 12, 2024.

ELEVEN IS SEEKING A TEAM-ORIENTED

AND FLEXIBLE LODGE AND PREP COOK to support the Colorado Culinary team with food preparations, transportation and meal service throughout Eleven’s entire Colorado footprint. This position will systematically execute food prep and transportation with quality and efficiency, as well as assist the team with managing food inventory and maintaining a clean, food-safe and organized kitchen. This position requires at least 1 year of food and beverage experience. The ideal candidate will have a team orientation with flexibility and willingness to do what is needed to complete Colorado Culinary team goals and meet guest needs and expectations. These are full and part-time seasonal positions starting at $21/hour depending on experience and qualifications.

The summer season runs from May through Oct. For more information and to apply, please visit elevenexperience.com/careers.

FULL OR PART-TIME MAINTENANCE

POSITION: Alpine Getaways is seeking a full or part-time maintenance tech to perform basic duties. Full-time employees may receive health benefits. $25-$30 per hour DOE. Please contact Erik at erik@ alpinegetaways.com or call 970-349-0539.

administrative responsibilities. This position will assist with all day activity bookings for the summer season, selling all Irwin Guides products. This position will also assist with marketing activities and management of the Irwin Guides retail space. This position requires 3+ years in an administrative role and knowledge of the outdoor industry and local activities and locations. This position also requires residence in the Gunnison Valley and the ability to work in-person at the Irwin Guides Crested Butte office, as well as ability and willingness to work flexible hours. The ideal candidate will have orientation to detail, sensitivity to deadlines and responsiveness to delegation, as well as comfort working independently in a fastpaced team environment. This full-time, seasonal position starts at $20-$22/hour, plus inclusion in the staff tip pool, depending on experience and qualifications. The summer season runs May through Oct. For more information and to apply, please visit elevenexperience.com/careers.

DOS RIOS GOLF CLUB is currently accepting applications for the upcoming season. Full and part-time line and prep cooks (pay DOE). Bar, wait and cart staff. All shifts available. Weekend availability required. Bar and grill open Apr. 1. Please stop by and fill out an application in person at 501 Camino Del Rio. 970-641-1482. Ask for Stacie.

WANT TO WORK 32 HOURS AND GET PAID FOR 40 HOURS? CB South

Metro District is hiring for a full-time Road Manager and Heavy Equipment Operator. This position would be responsible for planning, organizing, and directing all activities and staff related to the district’s roads and maintenance. Duties include road maintenance, snow removal, drinking water operations, wastewater operations and other day-to-day tasks of running a utility. This job requires the applicant to have motor grader and heavy equipment experience. Applicants must be 18 years of age and have a valid Colorado driver’s license. The successful applicant is eligible to receive an elite, full benefit package. Full job description, requirements, pay ranges and benefits are available on the district’s website at cbsouthmetro.net. Email resume to info@cbsouthmetro.net or drop off at 280 Cement Creek Road.

operations, employee supervision, construction and electrical/mechanical/ maintenance repair. A State of Colorado Water B and Distribution 3 license or the ability to obtain such within one (1) year is mandatory (training for certifications provided). Operators are required to take on-call responsibility including select weekends and holidays. A valid Colorado driver’s license is required. Starting salary is $74,200-$91,000 DOQ. Excellent benefits package, including 100% employer-paid premium family health, dental, vision and life insurance, 12 paid holiday days, two weeks paid vacation, employer contribution to retirement plan (5% automatic mandatory employer matching with 1-3% optional additional matching), employer provided uniforms and a seasonal ski pass. Full job description is available at mcbwsd.com. Please submit cover letter and resume to Mt. Crested Butte Water and Sanitation District, PO Box 5740, Mt. Crested Butte, CO 81225 or email info@mcbwsd.com. Position is open until filled. MCBWSD is an Equal Opportunity Employer.

MOUNTAIN EXPRESS SHOP

TECHNICIAN: JOIN OUR TEAM. Mountain Express is looking to recruit a shop technician for immediately available shifts. Applicant required to hold a CDL class BP-2 with no air brake restrictions, or we will pay for you to obtain one. Starting wage is $22.60/hr. Health insurance is available based on hours worked. Ski locker benefit. Shop technicians are responsible for daily fueling and cleaning of fleet vehicles and other related tasks at the direction of the shop supervisor. Please contact Leah Petito at lpetito@mtnexp.org to apply. For a complete job description, visit mtnexp.org. EOE.

DO YOU HAVE MAINTENANCE SKILLS?

Are you looking for a full-time, year-round position in the valley with great pay, health insurance, on-call pay, company vehicle, company phone, paid vacation, ski or health and wellness pass, 5-day work week and more? Iron Horse Property Management is adding another position to our maintenance team and we are looking for the right individual to help maintain our luxury homes. We are looking for someone who has a great work ethic, maintenance skills, is punctual and wants to quit having multiple jobs to make it in the valley. If this sounds like you and you have a clean driving record, then please send your resume to steve@ ironhorsecb.com. Qualified applicants will be contacted for an interview. No phone calls please. Pay DOE.

BARISTAS: Hiring for the summer season. Mochas Coffeehouse and Bakery in Gunnison is seeking baristas to join our team. Must be able to complete all aspects of the job as an equal member of the team in a positive and fun work environment. Hourly pay plus tips and shift meals. Drop your resume off or fill out an application at Mochas, 710 N. Main St.

ELEVEN IS SEEKING A TEAM-ORIENTED AND FLEXIBLE HOUSEKEEPER to ensure application of the highest Eleven standards for cleanliness of guest rooms and common areas for all Eleven properties in Colorado. This position will work with the housekeeping and lodge teams to complete daily and checkout cleans for all guest rooms according to Eleven standards, and accommodating guest schedules. This position requires proficiency with English and an understanding of Material Safety Data Sheet (MSDS) procedures, as well as ability to work flexible hours. The ideal candidate will have a strong understanding of the needs of a hospitality company with high standards of excellence and the ability to succeed and maintain a positive attitude in a fast-paced, dynamic environment and adapt quickly to ever-changing needs of a growing company. This full-time, summer seasonal position starts at $22/hour. The summer season runs May through Oct. For more information and to apply, please visit elevenexperience.com/careers.

WATER TREATMENT FACILITY

THE CLUB AT CRESTED BUTTE is hiring the following part-time and full-time seasonal positions for summer 2024: Housekeeper, $21-23/hr., front desk attendant, $16-20/hr. (weekends required), clubhouse attendant, $16-18/hr., line cook 21-25/hr + gratuity, market attendant, $16/hr + gratuity, assistant market manager, $1819/hr + gratuity, beverage cart attendant, $16/hr + gratuity, server/bartender $16/hr + gratuity, lead bartender, $18-22/hr + gratuity, host/hostess, $16/hr + gratuity, dishwasher, $20/hr + gratuity. Employee benefits include complimentary golf and employee discounts. For more information or to submit a resume, please visit theclubatcrestedbutte.com or email jobs@clubatcrestedbutte.com.

IRWIN GUIDES IS SEEKING A FLEXIBLE AND DETAIL-ORIENTED SALES

ASSOCIATE to assist with the management of Irwin Guides operations, including day sales, guide operations, sales and marketing duties, retail management and

FOREMAN: The Mt. Crested Butte Water and Sanitation District is accepting applications for a full-time Water Treatment Facility Foreman position to be part of a team environment focused on operation of the water plant and distribution system for Mt. Crested Butte. Important qualifications include a combination of treatment

THE TOWN OF MT. CRESTED BUTTE is hiring a full-time, year-round accounting clerk position. The position of accounting clerk is responsible for overseeing cash receipting, sales tax management and utility accounts for the town. This position involves meticulous attention to detail in handling financial transactions, ensuring compliance with relevant regulations and contributing to the overall efficiency of the finance department.

IS SELLING 1000’ OF CHAIN LINK FENCE, including top rail and posts. Call Paul Morgan at 970596-0450 for additional information.

RANCHING

GOOD BLACK BULLS

Yearling Gelbvieh and Balancers:

Low birth weight, good conformation, good weaning weight and low PAP scores for high altitude performance. Plus, polled and good disposition.

Trich tested to go anywhere.

The

Call John and Debbie Hawks 970-596-4292 or 970-417-1897

REAL ESTATE

PALISADES AFFORDABLE HOUSING COMMUNITY

Palisades Apartments is currently accepting applications for our waiting list. Our 2 bedroom, low income apartment community is income-based. You must meet restrictions.

Our newly renovated 2 bedroom apartments are a must see. Apply in-person at 600 N. Colorado in Gunnison.

We are a no smoking property.

For further information please contact us at 970-641-5429 or palisadesmanager@ silva-markham.com

FOR

2,000 SQ. FT. SHOP SPACE AND OFFICE OR SHOWROOM FOR LEASE: Located close to the Gunnison Airport on South 11th Street. Lease required. 970-209-3676.

DREAM HOUSE ON THE GUNNISON

RIVER: 203 Tomichi Trail, Gunnison, CO 145 ft. riverfront private fishing. Across from the 18th green, Dos Rios Golf Course, five minutes from the GUC airport. 1 acre w/50 trees on quiet cul-du-sac. No HOA fees, Airbnb unrestricted. 2 story stucco, 3 bed 2 bath. Southwest accents throughout. West side large deck and patio. 1st floor pine heart flooring, beamed ceilings, fireplace, chef’s kitchen, floor-to-ceiling pantry. Primary is entire 2nd floor, ensuite, fireplace, walk-in closet of your dreams, large tub w/jets, walkin shower w/three heads.

Floor-to-ceiling windows throughout. Bidding starts at $1.7M. Buyer agents welcome, $25K. Text 970-596-8089.

SENIOR HOUSING AVAILABLE: Mountain

View Apartments 2 bedroom apartment for rent. Applicants must meet HUD requirements: low income, minimum of 2 person household, elderly or disabled. Rent is dependent on income. Contact GVRHA at 970-641-7900 with questions and for an application.

FOR LEASE: Approximately 2,000 sq. ft. shop/office located on S. 11th close to the airport. Commercial zoning. Call 970-2093676 for information.

1,500 SQ. FT. RETAIL/OFFICE SPACE AVAILABLE in the Gunnison Meadows Mall next to City Market. For more information, call Jordon Ringel, 817-733-6947 or visit GunnisonMeadows.com.

Lights & Sirens

CITY OF GUNNISON POLICE REPORT

MARCH 18

INFORMATION — 503 N. WISCONSIN ST.

CRIMINAL ATTEMPT — 100 S. 7TH ST.

WELFARE ASSIST — W. TOMICHI AVE.

PROPERTY - FOUND — 124 E. VIRGINIA AVE.

ADMIN - UNASSIGNED INCIDENT

— 100 N. TELLER ST.

MARCH 19

THEFT: INTENDS TO PERMA -

NENTLY DEPRIVE X3 — 900 N. MAIN ST.

NUISANCE CODE VIOLATION — 206 S. 10TH ST.

THEFT: TWO OR MORE THEFTS IN 6 MONTHS — 900 N. MAIN ST.

PROPERTY - FOUND — 910 W.

BIDWELL AVE.

WELFARE ASSIST — W. TOMICHI

AVE.

CIVIL PROBLEM — 1011 W. RIO

GRANDE AVE.

DISTURBING THE PEACE - ALLOWING OTHERS — 1706 W.

TOMICHI AVE.

CRIMINAL POSSESSION OF A FORGED INSTRUMENT — 312 S. 12TH ST.

MARCH 20

DISTURBING THE PEACE — 1706 W. TOMICHI AVE.

DISORDERLY CONDUCT: UTTERANCE/GESTURE/DISPLAY — 1099

N. 11TH ST.

INFORMATION — 900 N. MAIN ST.

SEXUAL EXPLOITATION OF A

CHILD: POSSESSES/VIES — 1099

N. 11TH ST.

MARCH 21

DRIVING UNDER THE INFLUENCE - DRUGS — 100 E. VIRGINIA AVE

MENACING: USE OF A WEAPON — 519 W. TOMICHI AVE.

HARASSMENT: FOLLOWING — 300 N. COLORADO ST.

NUISANCE CODE VIOLATION — 403 E. TOMICHI AVE.

ANIMAL - NUISANCE ABATEMENT - MUNICIPAL — 412 N. 12TH ST.

FRAUD — 1313 W. OHIO AVE.

MARCH 22

ADMIN - UNASSIGNED INCIDENT

ASSAULT: SECOND DEGREE -

STRANGULATION — E. TOMICHI

AVE.

ANIMAL: NUISANCE ABATEMENT - NOISE — 606 N. 7TH ST.

MARCH 23

NUISANCE CODE VIOLATION — 412 E. TOMICHI AVE.

MEDICAL CALL — S. WISCONSIN S

MARCH 24

ASSAULT: FIRST DEGREE WITH

DEADLY WEAPON — 800 N. COLO-

RADO ST.

THEFT: INTENDS TO PERMANENTLY DEPRIVE — 300 ES -

CALANTE DR.

ACCIDENT — E. NEW YORK AVE.

DOMESTIC VIOLENCE — 911 N. MAIN ST.

GUNNISON COUNTY SHERIFF’S REPORT

MARCH 19

-Information report on a found dog

-Deputies assisted Emergency Medical Services with a medical call

-Deputies assisted the National Park Service for a person who fell through the ice on the lake

MARCH 20

-Deputies responded to verbal disturbance in progress and possible trespass

-Information report - assisted EMS with a paraglider who crashed near the Dillon Pinnacles

MARCH 21

-Agency assist to the Gunnison Police Department for a disturbance at a local business

-Information report on a possible trespass in Somerset -Wildland fire call

-Dog at large call - owners located

MARCH 22

-Deputies took two people into custody for vehicular eluding, reckless driving, 3rd-degree trespass and driving while ability impaired on dirt bikes

-Deputies assisted the GPD with a domestic in progress

-Deputies issued a citation for driving when license is revoked - habitual traffic offender, speeding and driving an uninsured motor vehicle

-Deputies took one person into custody for an out-of-county warrant

MARCH 23

-Deputies stopped a vehicle on a possible DUI but released this person after finding out that it was a possible medical situation

-Somerset deputies issued a citation for speeding and driving with a denied driver’s license

-Deputies took a report from a contractor who was trying to clear a job site and were asked to “trespass” one person who was on the property, as their service was no longer needed

MARCH 24

-Deputies assisted the GPD with a disturbance in progress

MARCH 25

-Information report on some abandoned vehicles that deputies assisted the tow company with, making sure they weren’t entered as stolen on some property being cleared in the county

-Deputies checked on a dog who was reported as possibly dead on the side of a road - they learned that this was a very old dog that couldn’t hear very well and just liked to lie there

April

Expert Care. Designed for you.

Care designed for ... BREATHING EASIER

At Gunnison Valley Health, our specialized respiratory care team are here to help you breathe easier.

PULMONARY FUNCTIONS TESTING

Pulmonary Functions Tests (PFTs) determine the functionality of your lungs and is the gold standard in lung testing. The test can determine the lungs’ ability to move air in and out and oxygenate your body.

RESPIRATORY THERAPY | 970-648-7132

711

CARDIOPULMONARY REHABILITATION

Designed for cardiovascular and pulmonary patients recovering from a cardiac or pulmonary event. The program builds around the patient’s whole health and lifestyle to get the heart and lungs working properly again.

CARDIOPULMONARY REHABILITATION | 970-641-7201

711 N.

SLEEP CENTER

| GUNNISON

We offer at-home and hospital-based sleep studies in our high elevation sleep center. If you are experiencing sleep disturbances and want to explore if a sleep study is right for you, talk with your primary care provider.

SLEEP CENTER | 970-642-4811 711

TOBACCO CESSATION PROGRAM

Commit to Quit is a smoking cessation program designed to help you stop using tobacco by developing an action plan that modifies your behavior and coping techniques to eliminate tobacco.

RESPIRATORY THERAPY | 970-648-7132 711

High school expulsion, grit...

...and overcoming prejudice

The story behind Maciejko’s coaching legacy

Alex McCrindle Times Sports Editor

Tami Maciejko marched onto the pool deck with an intense stare and clipboard in hand. It was late January and the Gunnison Aquatic Center pulsed with energy as visiting Pagosa Springs took on the Cowboys swim team. The poolside stand of bleachers shook underfoot, and the humid building filled with whistles and cheers.

Maciejko surveyed her squad of black-capped swimmers, looked down at her heat sheet and called over Sam Jones. The Gunnison High School junior nodded at her coach’s instructions. It wasn’t long ago that

Jones was a timid elementary school student, hiding behind her mother, afraid to swim. Now she prepared to compete in the 100-yard breaststroke, an event she would take fifth in at state.

Maciejko had been along for the whole ride.

Jones is one of hundreds of athletes to swim under Maciejko’s watchful eye. For 45 years, the veteran coach has taught Gunnison families how to swim and been a beacon of progress for women’s athletics. Whether teaching toddlers

how to float on their backs or senior racers to shed time, Maciejko’s stubborn and honest character has become a staple in Gunnison athletics. Her coaching philosophy is built on commitment and hard work — virtues she learned working

her way to the top of ski racing podiums.

“Tami is the one person who believed in me, even when I didn’t believe in myself,” said former swimmer and 2021 GHS graduate Alexandra Riser. “She has played a huge role in my life, and she never gave up on me. She taught me consistency, dedication and how to show up, even on the toughest days.”

Quite literally, Maciejko started swimming before she could walk. She grew up near a hot spring in a small town in eastern Oregon. In the heated water Maciejko fell in love with the sport. She balanced her two passions, swimming in the summer and downhill ski racing in the winter.

In high school, Maciejko’s budding ski-racing career took a massive leap. She finished 10th at the U.S. Nationals and had her sights on bigger mountains and prestigious trophies. However, in the early

Maciejko B2

Maciejko holds up a team photo of the 1964 Stingrays team.

Tami Maciejko (Photos by Mariel Wiley)

Maciejko from B1

1970s, especially in small-town Oregon, school administrators didn’t take kindly to female athletes missing class. After skipping her 10th day of school for a ski competition, Maciejko was promptly expelled.

“In high school, my principal told me I was ruining my childbearing years and I wasn’t meant to have muscles or to be athletic,” Maciejko said. “He kicked me out of school, but my stepdad, who was also my ski coach, kept telling me, ‘You can get educated anytime, let’s go ski.’”

Maciejko clipped back into her bindings after being kicked to the academic curb. She joined the elite Mission Ridge Ski Academy in Washington, and began training with toplevel downhill skiers and attending a local junior college. Maciejko suffered through the intense workout schedules and dictatorial curfew rules. In the early season, coaches would drench the hillsides with water and the skiers would practice carving in ice-rink conditions.

“We were all fighting to go to races,” Maciejko said. “We would ski down these rivers of ice, making as many turns as we could, just trying to ski more laps than the others”

Then there was the curfew. Maciejko recounts watching the boys being punished for staying up late playing poker. They were dragged outside to run in the early hours of the morning until they threw up. It was a cutthroat and competitive system, and like high school, female athletes faced demeaning comments and discrimination.

“The comments directed toward the girls were really inappropriate, but I learned to take it in stride.” Maciejko said. “We were all happy to be in a sport. Girls were expected to be

cheerleaders or to play intramural sports to impress the guys. A lot has changed.”

After high school, Maciejko made the jump to collegiate ski racing and moved to the Gunnison Valley to attend Western State College in 1977. She began lifeguarding and teaching swimming at the pool at Dos Rios her second year. She hasn’t stopped since.

Over her 45-year career, Maciejko has taught swimming all across town, from Western to the old Super Courts facility just north of town and now, the Gunnison Rec Center. High school swim coaching was a natural addition, and she has now coached both the Cowboys girls team and the Stingrays summer team for decades.

To this day, a piece of her hard-nosed ski background merges into swim coaching. Her high school swimmers rise with the sun in the summer months and train everyday in the winter. It is one of the reasons the team, although small, has achieved continuous success at the regional and state competitions.

In Jones’ case, the Cowboy swimmer wouldn’t be anywhere near a pool without the persistence of Maciejko.

“When I was little I hated swimming,” Jones said. “I would scream and cry and not go anywhere near the water. Tami always asked me to swim, even though I was super unathletic, and my parents had written it off. Finally I said yes, and now Tami has become like a grandmother to me.”

Through the grueling practices, her “hard-love” mentality, and sometimes a few shed tears, Maciejko’s love for coaching is rooted in her love and dedication to her athletes. Now, all eyes are on the summer season, and it’s full speed ahead.

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

Maciejko flips through photo albums of skiing photos, and her early days at the Dos Rios pool.

Rotary scholarship

Gunnison Rotary Club is seeking applications for scholarships. Four $2,000 awards are available, including four-year college, Western Colorado University and a CTE scholarship. For more information, visit rotaryclubofgunnisonco.com or email gunnisonrotary@gmail.com with questions. Applications are due April 1.

Middle school summer program

Gunnison Middle School presents the 2024 Summer Experience program, featuring 41 different courses from outdoor adventures to music, art, cooking and more. Parents can register current 5th-8th graders from March 29-April 12 at gunnisonschools.net. For more information, please email gmssummer@ gunnisonschools.net.

Crested Butte dance classes

Crested Butte School of Dance registration opens on March 29 at 9 a.m. for Block 4 classes and April 5 at 9 a.m. for Block 5. Scholarships are available for both youth and adults. Visit dancecrestedbutte.org to view schedules, create accounts, register and apply for scholarships. Contact programs@dancecrestedbutte.org for more information.

Sacred feminine circle

Cultures that lived in relationship with the sacred feminine were earth-centered, body affirming, egalitarian and peaceseeking. Join the sacred women's

circle group to share what's working for you and be inspired by other women on April 2 at 7 p.m at 403 Maroon Ave. in Crested Butte. Contact Rev. Kelly Jo Clark with questions at 970.209.1613.

Underdog Rescue fundraiser

Gunnison Gallery will host the 18th annual Cat and Dog Art Show to benefit Gunnison Underdog Rescue from April 1-30. Anyone may enter one dog and one cat 8.5 x 11 inch photograph or painting with the theme ”FURever Friends.” The fee is $5 per entry and the deadline is March 30 at 3 p.m. Public voting for $5 runs from April 5-25. Email photos to gunnisongallery124@ gmail.com and drop by the gallery at 124 N. Main St. to pay entry fees. Call 970.641.6111 for more information.

Youth nicotine anonymous

Nicotine Anonymous for Young Adults meets every Wednesday from 2-3 p.m. at 601 6th St. in Crested Butte and from 4-5 p.m. at the Fred Field McDonough Room in Gunnison. This is a mutual support group with no religious affiliation. Contact ajohnson@gunnisoncounty.org with questions.

Overeaters Anonymous

Overeaters Anonymous meets on Thursdays from 11 a.m.-12 p.m. at The Last Resort, 114 Wisconsin St. in downtown Gunnison. This is an open meeting.

GUNNISON ARTS CENTER BRIEFS

Fundamentals of Qigong

Practice Qigong with Heidi on March 30 at the Gunnison Arts Center. Qigong is a gentle practice of flowing movements that improves balance, strength, mobility and calm. This class is for beginners of all ages and advanced practitioners with a fun, group atmosphere. Pay what you can with a suggested donation of $10-$15. Register online at gunnisonartscenter.org.

Clay classes

Registration is open for spring clay classes at the GAC. Beginner Wheel Throwing takes place on Thursdays from April 4-May 9.

SENIOR CENTER PROGRAMS

Ongoing Senior Services

• April 3 (12pm – Special Time!): Book Club. If you are new, please call ahead to Judy (973) 584-4987.

Delivery Assistance Hotline: (970) 641-7959 - assistance with ordering, pick-up and delivery of groceries and prescription medications. This includes deliveries from the Food Bank.

• April 10 (12:45pm): Gunnison Valley Trails & Tales with Kay Peterson-Cook. Learn about how some of your favorite trails came into being by someone who was there! Kay, one of the Senior Center’s hike leaders, will share some of her experiences creating recreational trails in the Valley, and some of the tales that went along with those adventures. Please RSVP!

• April 17: Input Session with Gunnison County – 135 Corridor Safety. Come share your experiences & ideas about how to improve the safety of the 135 corridor in and around Gunnison. Your voice is very important! Light refreshments provided. RSVP requested!

Intermediate Wheel Throwing is on Wednesdays from April 3-May 8. Both classes run from 5:30-8:30 p.m. Daytime Handbuilding/ Wheel Throwing for all levels is on Thursdays from 10 a.m.-1 p.m. Find more information and register at gunnisonartscenter.org.

‘Big + Little Art’

Get creative with your little one while exploring different art forms and movement at the GAC on Saturdays, April 6-May 4, from 9:45-10:45 a.m. Please wear play clothes. This class is for ages 2-5 with one adult present during class for every two children. Find more information and register at gunnisonartscenter.org.

CB CENTER FOR THE ARTS BRIEFS

End of season party

Join the Crested Butte Center for the Arts for Deadhead Ed’s End of Season Party on April 4 from 8-11 p.m., featuring the sensational tunes of the Grateful Dead by Easy Jim. Tickets prices range from $35-$55 and may be purchased at crestedbuttearts. org.

Artist reception

The CBCA will host an opening reception for “Where are they now?” to celebrate the artist, David Chatfield, on April 4 from 5-7 p.m. Find more information at crestedbuttearts.org.

Senior Meals: (970) 641-8272 for advance orders OR (970) 641-2107 for same-day service Pick-up or delivery only! Meals served Mondays, Wednesdays, & Fridays Please note: all meals, all days are $4 during this time Order in advance if possible! Upcoming menu:

• April 19 (4pm): Community Meal & Social Hour! Program on the Great Sand Dunes National Park. RSVPs required! $5 for members/$10 for non-members –payable at the door.

• March 27: Lasagna, green beans, salad, garlic bread, dessert

• March 30: Salisbury steak, mashed potatoes, corn, rolls, fruit, dessert

Regular Activities: Mondays – Bridge @ 1 pm; Tuesdays – Canasta @ 1pm; Wednesdays

• April 1: Stew, carrot/raisin salad, Mandarin oranges, rolls, dessert

– Book Club @ 1 pm on 1st Weds. of month; Thursdays – Bridge @ 1 pm; Fridays – Art Club @ 12:30 pm & Mahjong @ 1 pm

All RSVPs and more info on Senior Center programs: egillis@gunnisonco.gov or 970-6418272.

Senior Shopping Hours:

• City Market – Mondays, Wednesdays, Fridays (7AM – 8AM)

• Safeway – Tuesdays & Thursdays (7AM – 9AM)

FITNESS @ THE REC CENTER – Sign up at the Rec Center front desk!

Mondays

Wednesdays

the

• Walmart – Tuesdays (6AM – 7AM)

Tuesdays @ 10AM in the Leisure Pool

• Gunnison Vitamin & Health Food Store – Monday - Saturday (8AM – 9AM)

• Clark’s Market (Crested Butte) – Every day (8AM – 9AM)

SENIOR MEALS

Self-reporting Form: www.gunnisoncounty.org /covid19.

Mondays, Wednesdays & Fridays @ 11:30 am. $5 per meal. Advanced orders appreciate (24 hours). Pick-ups between 11 – 11:15 am (advanced orders only).

ORDER MEALS: 970-641-8272

If you have symptoms but are otherwise OK, please fill out the form. If you cannot fill out the form, call the Call Center (970) 641-7660.

Menu: (all meals come with dessert!)

• Mon., April 1: Easter Ham, scalloped potatoes, green bean casserole, salad

• Weds., April 3: Taco Salad, peaches

• Fri., April 5: Creamy Chicken & Garlic Casserole, roasted zucchini, cheesy biscuits

Call Center: (970) 641-7660. If you are having symptoms, cannot fill out the online form, or your symptoms are worsening, call the Call Center DO NOT go to your doctor ’s or the hospital If it is an emergency, call 911

Walk-in & visitors welcome! Homebound adults ages 55 & up eligible for delivery. If you need a ride, call GVH Senior Bus @ 970-596-6700 (call in advance) or call the Senior Center 970-641-8272.

ONGOING SERVICES

Please practice social isolation. Remain 6 feet or more from others when needing to be out, but staying at home if at all possible.

Gunnison Country Food Pantry – Mondays (1 – 4 pm), Wednesdays (1 – 7 pm), Thursdays for 60+ (10 am – 2 pm). Contact: 970-641-4156, Located on the SW Corner of Main St. & Ohio Ave.

GVH Senior Bus: 7 days a week, 9 am – 4 pm. Call in advance! 970-596-6700.

Crested Butte Senior Bus: Monday thru Friday, 9 am – 4 pm Services Montrose & Grand Junction for medical appointments. Call at least 1 week in advance, or more. 970-275-4768.

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

The Gunnison Senior Center & Community Recreation Center is closed until April 30th

VETERANS’ VOICE

‘I

A career in service takes a heavy toll

Craig Isham Special to the Times

I began my Army career in February of 2003, shortly after the tragedy of the September 11 attacks. Like so many young people across this land, I felt the call to arms resonating on my heart and mind. Our country had been attacked and an unspeakable toll of human lives had been taken. I believed it to be a matter of honor, and my patriotic duty to serve.

I remember hearing the stories of my grandfather being drafted to fight in World War II, and leaving behind the family homestead on Willow Creek, right here in Gunnison County. He fought in the Pacific Theatre, hopping from island to island and fighting his way toward our eventual victory over Japanese Forces on Aug. 15, 1945. Now, almost 60 years and two generations later, I felt honored to don the uniform of my country as my grandfather had done.

In my naïve youth, I often played at war with my brother and friends. My awareness regarding the realities of war was limited to John Wayne movies and our family encyclopedias showing pictures of great victories and honored heroes. I was aware war was bad, but my innocent mind could not comprehend its true darkness. Now, as a young man boarding a bus to Basic Training, I felt an odd mixture of excitement and nervousness as I kissed my new bride goodbye.

After Basic I was stationed at Fort Bragg, North Carolina, where I received two announcements that would change my life forever. First, my wife shared the

news that she was pregnant, and second … I was being deployed. Suddenly, I found myself in the middle of a personal awakening regarding the realities of war. No longer just a game, the uncertainty of war loomed over my fledgling family as I recorded messages for my unborn son, comforted my wife and prepared my will. Soon, having returned from my first tour, I found myself surrounded at BBQs and social functions. Questions like, “What’s it like over there?” became a point of discomfort as I shied away and sought a quiet corner of the room to hide from the anxiety crowds now brought. I was anxious to leave and return to the world I had become

accustomed to. Within six months, I had reenlisted and was again kissing my wife goodbye as she held our son tightly against her bosom. Another flight across the world, another weapon, another battlefield, another scar, another promotion, another reenlistment — and so my world continued to turn. By my last deployment, my perception concerning the realities of war had been forever altered. Gone was the laughter and excitement of my childhood games. Men I had never met before, now carried the loving moniker “brothers,” and their loss was received with the same heart wrenching grief as any family member.

The list of horrors witnessed,

brothers killed, regrets lived with and nightmares endured, now grew like a cancer in my heart and mind. Suddenly I found myself avoiding social outings outright. My family, which now included my two daughters, had to live with my rage, nightmares, doubts and constant unease. Every year, the memories and anniversaries of fallen brothers come into my household with the regularity of any holiday.

Now retired, with over 20 years of service and over 53 months in combat, I struggle to recall my youth. That magical time before my heart was turned to stone and my mind became a perpetual battlefield. But alas, my parents no longer recognize me. This is my new and eter-

nal view of the realities of war. I am reminded of the words of General Douglas MacArthur. “The Soldier above all others prays for peace, for it is the soldier who must suffer and bear the deepest wounds and scars of war.”

Now, I no longer play at war; I survive it daily. I am broken, but somehow holding my life together, alive, but not living. My body fails me as injuries and years of abuse take their effect. I am angry, I am scared and I am hurting. I am an American Veteran, and I fight on.

(Craig Isham is a Gunnison resident and a retired veteran of the United States Army.)

Craig and Amy Isham in 2005 just after the birth of their son, John. (Courtesy Craig Isham)

Western hosts Preview Day

Prospective Western students and their families wandered through a sea of tables in the Mountaineer Field House on March 22 for Preview Day. Representatives from academic departments such as math, art and outdoor education chatted with visitors, who picked up Western-branded tote bags on their way out.

Spring fling

Fans of the KWSB radio station packed into Western’s University Center Ballroom for the first annual spring formal on March 22. Attendees danced to local DJ sets beneath swirling disco lights. KWSB 91.1-FM, “The Penguin,” is Western’s on-campus, student-managed radio station. It has broadcasted radio shows, music and public service announcements to Gunnison Valley listeners for more than 55 years.

The BLM Gunnison Field Office is closing gates on BLM roads in the Gunnison Basin as part of the annual closure from March 15-May 15 to protect Gunnison sage-grouse during their mating and nesting season. The closures are in coordination with Gunnison County, Gunnison Ranger District, and Colorado Parks and Wildlife. The gates will reopen on May 15.

For specific information on closures on BLM lands, contact the Gunnison Field Office at (970) 642-4940.

(Photo by Mariel Wiley)

(Photos by Mariel Wiley)

Cowboy distance runners Jemma Petrie, Spencer Hays and Madelyn Stice. (Photo by Mariel Wiley)

Titans lacrosse leans into senior leadership

New coach propels varsity program forward

Alex McCrindle Times Sports Editor

In its second year as a varsity program, the Crested Butte Titans lacrosse team has its sights on a bigger and brighter season. Last season, the Titans exceeded all expectations and went toe-to-toe with the top teams in the league. Still, the season ended with a 5-9 overall record, and has left the senior players hungry for more.

This season, former Assistant Coach Carter Brock was promoted to head coach. He has been coaching with West Elk Lacrosse since 2020, and is now in his second year with the Titans. Now he is looking to take the young program to new heights.

“Our head coach last year was exactly what we needed to start the varsity program,” said senior Jack Pierson. “Now, Coach Brock has what we need to pick up the pace, and strengthen this team to the next level.”

Brock will rely on senior leaders Jack Pierson and Gavin Fischer to guide the 31-player roster. Pierson, a GHS senior attacker entering his fourth year with the Titans, trained with the Western Colorado University club team this winter. Co-captain Fischer is the Titans’ starting goalie, and will play a large role in leaving behind a legacy for the budding program.

“I’m hoping to bring more leadership this year,” Fischer said. “We’re getting a lot of young talent into the team this year — some new defenders, a strong back-up goalie and players that will bring a lot to the team. I want to teach the younger guys and help them grow.”

The Titans’ had a rocky start to the season. Despite a promising 3-3 draw against Summit in the opening scrimmage on March 7, the boys slid against

Seniors:

William Lane

Cy Davis

Riley Davis

Weston Miller

Jack Pierson

Gavin Fischer

Ty Pulliam

Trey Smolen

Jack Barnes

Juniors:

Luca Meyer

Fraser Birnie

Colten Huisman

Greg Blaco

Tanner Maltby

Jordan Silva

Rowan Dishmon

Sophomores:

Hayden Moran

Dawson Eastep

Luke Walton

AJ Hegeman Vinny

Zach

Merrick

Freshmen:

Aspen, Grand Junction and Fruita Monument to start the year 0-3. Crested Butte bounced back to local rivals Montrose, winning 9-4 on March 16. The boys will work to dial in their system ahead of the key league matchup to Telluride on March 22 at home. Scores were not available by press time.

“This team has learned to fight hard through games,” Brock said. “We showed a lot of resilience last year, and there is a lot to look forward to in this upcoming season. I’m expect-

ing our senior class to step up as leaders. But it will be our junior and sophomore core that will gain experience and grow the program.”

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

(Photo by Mariel Wiley)

2024

Baseball capitalizes on winning culture

Cowboys hope to turn heads this year

Alex McCrindle Times Sports Editor

When it comes to gritty teams, this group of Cowboys can win games on resilience alone. Coming off an electric end to the 2023 season, the GHS boys baseball team is ready to bring its fighting spirit back to the diamond.

“We have a lot of experience back, and I think our guys can compete with anyone,” said Head Coach Tom Perceival. “The boys put in a lot of work this summer, and are coming off successful football, wrestling and hockey seasons. It all contributes to us taking a big step this season.”

Last year, the boys wrestled through a difficult start to the season, winning only two games out of their opening nine. As the weather warmed, so did the Cowboys. Slowly, the wheels started turning and the boys added more wins to the record. GHS motored into the playoffs, and went neck-andneck with a 22-6, powerhouse Montezuma-Cortez team. Only a sixth inning, two-out, two-run homer snatched the upset away from the Cowboys, and the team was eliminated 7-4.

This season, GHS is led by three-sport athlete Hunter

Vincent, senior slugger Mason Williams and junior pitcher Talon Kibler. Many of the players were a part of the high-flying Cowboy football team that went deep into the playoffs this fall. Now, they hope to bring the same energy into baseball season.

Postseason glory won’t come easy, however. The Cowboys are up against the challenging 3A Western Slope Conference, with teams like Delta and Coal Ridge that had strong seasons last year. Still, optimism is high inside the GHS locker room.

“This team has a good chance of doing something special this year,” Vincent said. “Similar to our football season, I think we can get past the first round of the playoffs and reach that state tournament.”

As with most spring sports, practice begins when the field defrosts. The Cowboys opened the season with an away, 10-4 victory against Monte Vista on March 8. The team then traveled to Delta and fell to Cedaredge and Pagosa Springs on March 15-16.

GHS will open its league campaign against Olathe away on March 29, and return to the high school field when the Gunnison weather complies.

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

Seniors:

Gifford Jauregui

Rigiberto Mincer

John Parker

Hunter Vincent

Mason Williams

Juniors:

Rylee Berry

Grady Buckhanan

Kahne Chippiani

Talon Kibler

Oliver Parker

Jacob Riser

Marshall Spann

Sam Sunderlin

Holden Vickers

Kellan Yoder

Sophomores:

Evan Bjornstad

Colin Bloomer

Jake Ebbott

Cesar Marmolejo

Landon Miller

Vinny Nicolli

Ethan Pierce

Ryder Vincent

Freshman:

Deegan Bennett

Ian Busby

Carbon Kruthapt

Joan Martinez

George Perez

Jack Stone

Parker Vick

Hector Vasquez

(Photo by Mariel Wiley)

Girls golf returns to the links

Schwartz hopes to lead young team back to state

Alex McCrindle Times Sports Editor

Golf is a fickle game. Success comes with consistency, patience and a whole lot of composure. It is difficult to achieve any of these on a tight schedule — and that is exactly what the young Cowboys girls golf team is up against this spring. Just a few short weeks after hitting a golf ball outside for the first time this season, the girls will play a competitive round in Delta on March 28.

Head Coach Kevin Mickelson said the goal each season is to improve little by little.

“Our goals are always the same,” Mickelson said. “We want to grow the game, and we are going to get better, every single week, one tournament at a time.”

This season, the team lost 2023 state qualifier Aiden Tomlin, who traded her golf shoes for track spikes. However, 2022 state qualifier and senior Allie Schwartz, who competes in mountain biking and hockey throughout the year, will return

to the course and attempt to make the state tournament again.

“Allie has a perfect temperament for golf,” Mickelson said. “She always prepares and works for the best, but she takes what comes because she understands how difficult the game of golf can be. That’s why she’s had so much success.”

Shwartz will lead a team of 15 underclassmen, some with very little golf experience.

“I’m hoping to grow this year as a leader and player, improve my swing and keep getting better,” Schwartz said.

Until the Dos Rios Golf Course opens, the girls will continue to practice indoors. They have spent the last weeks putting on hard surfaces, hitting wiffle balls into nets and chipping on the fields outside GHS.

This spring’s fast and furious golf schedule will take the girls all over Colorado. The season will open at the challenging Devil’s Thumb Golf Course in Delta on March 28, and play in Grand Junction, Alamosa, Vail and the Front Range. The state tournament will take place at the Olde Course in Berthoud on April 20 and 21.

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

2024 GIRLS GOLF ROSTER 2024

Seniors:

Allie Schwartz

Stephanie Harvey

Sophomores:

Annie Harvey

Kamryn Noble

Joey Madrid

Macy Trezise

Faith Pederson

Freshmen:

Kaya Burnett

Natalia Sabino

Reese Japuntich

Maja Bryja

Abby Hulick

Emily Eckert

Jorah Abila

Althea Stansbery

(Photo by Mariel Wiley)

Track and field rises together

Junior girls and senior boys can reach new heights this spring

Alex McCrindle Times Sports Editor

The GHS track and field team is in its second year of a rebuild. A stacked team of junior girls and senior boys have their eyes on state qualification and record times. Led by all-star distance runners Madelyn Stice, Jemma Petrie and Spencer Hays, and sprinters Bodin Bichon and Sienna Gomez, the Cowboys may turn some heads this spring.

This year, the squad boasts 45 athletes, with 12 freshmen who will strap on high school spikes for the first time. Head Coach Stacey Mickelson hopes the young energy will lead the program toward podium finishes for years to come.

Last spring, the boys team missed out on state, but 10 girls qualified and put up impres -

sive times in Lakewood. Stice finished fifth in the 3200-meter run, and achieved a personal best time in the 800-meter run — earning her 14th place with a time of 2:27.92. The 4x800meter relay team, composed of Stice, Petrie, Catalina Schwab and Izabella Hartzell placed eighth in 10:19.92.

Also at state, the 200-meter sprint relay of Gomez, Eden Williams, Caroline Sudderth and Aubrey Welfelt competed, but did not place. Individually, Gomez took eighth in the triple jump, and Angela Hindes finished seventh in the high jump.

“Hopefully, this year some of the boys can rise to the occasion and make it into the top eight teams to qualify for state, and our girls start to achieve some of their bigger goals,” Mickelson said.

On the girls side, it is anyone’s guess how far the runners can go. Juniors Stice and Petrie have podium finishes at the top of their goals.

2024 TRACK AND FIELD SCHEDULE

Seniors:

Bodin Bichon

Rowen Downum

Luke Ebbott

Spencer Hays

Vojta Jirka

Julian Ryter

Izabella Hartzell

Justine Mowery

Megan Vanderveer

Josephine Wishard

Juniors:

Jackson Dalleck

Garret Maclennon

Shane Mensing

Arno Mortensen

Tyler Richter

Lee Brunsting

Kathryn Frey

Nicholine Friedrichsen

Sienna Gomez

Angela Hindes

Amara Lock

For seniors Hays and Bichon, leaving a legacy will be their motivation for the spring season.

“I want to make it to state

“I definitely want to PR in all of my events, and keep placing higher at state, but I also want to be a role model for the younger athletes,” Stice said. “A lot of people ask me for running coaching. I want to have a positive impact, run with them and help them succeed.”

and see the hard work pay off,” Hays said. “I’m also excited to see the 4x800-meter relay team shed time, and to encourage the younger guys to stick with the sport, push through the hard workouts and watch the results come.”

The track and field teams were forced into a semi-indoor preseason due to winter weather and a practice schedule at Western Colorado University’s facilities. In recent weeks, the distance runners have been running miles across town, while the sprinters lapped hills to train for the upcoming meets.

The Cowboys’ first meet took place on March 23 in Hotchkiss. The teams will head to Grand Junction on March 30 for its second competition of the season. Results were not available by press time.

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

Jemma Petrie

Catalina Schwab

Madelyn Stice

Eden Williams

Sophomores:

Cooper Boardman

Cruz Dominguez

Penn Sleightholam

Rose Kowal

Lily O’Connell

Caroline Sudderth

Aiden Tomlin

Aubrey Welfelt

Freshmen:

Lawson Forman

Cooper Mickelson

Luke Vader

Karter Williams

Caleb Woodward

Bella Gomez

Jade Hanna

Kayden McDonough

Lucy Orgill

Maya Petrie

McKenzie Singer

Merci Williams

(Photo by Mariel Wiley)

GHS baseball home schedule delayed

The Cowboy baseball season is off to a slow start. The team’s first home game, scheduled for March 26, was delayed by winter weather. Despite the mud,, the Cowboys have finally started practicing on their home field and currently hold a 1-2 overall record. The ballplayers will travel to Olathe on March 29 for their opening league game of the season, and hope to play at home on Tuesday, April 2 at 2 p.m.

Titans lacrosse stumbles in opening games

The Titans lacrosse team has been battling through a challenging start to the season. On March 22, the boys lost 16-2 to league rival Telluride in Crested Butte’s home opener. On Saturday, the Titans fought toe-to-toe with the Vanguard School, but came up short 11-10. This week, on March 25, Crested Butte notched an important 10-7 league victory over Durango. The mixed results moved the Titans to a 2-5 overall record, and 2-3 in the 4A Mountain League. Next up, the boys will travel to Telluride to face the Miners on March 29.

Jack Pierson carries the ball against the Miners. (Photos by Mariel Wiley)

Jack Pierson celebrates alongside Dawson Eastep and AJ Hegeman in the loss to Telluride.

Vinny Nicolli slides into home base at a JV away game last week. (Courtesy Evan Bjornstad)

Freshman catcher Jack Stone makes a throw to second base.