Gunnison Country Times, June 27, 2024

State responds to power losses at Country Meadows

Mobile home park back on the market

Bella Biondini Times Editor

Months of unresolved power outages at Gunnison’s Country Meadows mobile home park have forced the state to intervene. After some back and forth over delayed repairs, owner Ski Town Village LLC put the mobile home park up for sale last week.

Meadows A6

City receives $100,000 for fire station redesign

Jeff Hurd wins Republican nomination in CD3

COMMUNITY: Women on the water, B1

Considering ballot initiative for 2025

Bella Biondini Times Editor

SPORTS: Stingrays kickstart season, B8

NEWS: County grant prevents evictions, A11 OBITUARIES A2 OPINION A4 CLASSIFIEDS A14-A17 SPORTS B8

The City of Gunnison is preparing to return to voters in November of 2025 with a less complicated ballot initiative it hopes will help fund a new fire station.

The existing station houses Gunnison County’s primary fire department, staffed entirely by volunteers who serve an area of nearly 3,000 square miles — excluding Crested Butte. The steel storage building is structurally failing and lacks

sleeping quarters and training space for volunteer firefighters. According to city officials, the station is 20 years past its useful life. But with cost estimates for a new fire house exceeding $20 million, none of the city’s reserves could support a capital project of this size. If a ballot is pursued, it will not be the first time the city has asked residents to help pay for a new station. In 2021, the city proposed a 1% sales tax increase to fund both road maintenance and the construction of a new fire house. That same year, the Gunnison County Fire Protection District (the organization that oversees the fire department in conjunction with the city) proposed its

Stern fills GCEA seat

Bella Biondini Times Editor

Voters have chosen Jeff Hurd as the Republicans nominee for Colorado’s Third Congressional District (CD3). He will face Democratic challenger Adam Frisch in November in the race to represent the Western Slope.

Even with United States Rep. Lauren Boebert’s move out of the district, CD3 remains one of the most contested seats in the upcoming general election. Six candidates entered the Republican race this year, but few pulled ahead in the crowd. Frisch, who was narrowly defeated by Boebert in 2022,

led in fundraising across party lines.

Hurd is an attorney and former president of the Grand Junction Chamber of Commerce. At the polls, Hurd rose above former state Rep. Ron Hanks who described himself as the only “pro-Trump, America first,” and the “most conservative” candidate in the race. The Colorado Republican Party endorsed Hanks in May.

Hurd received 42% of the vote, while Hanks received 28%. The other four candidates —Stephen Varela, Lew Webb, Russ Andrews and Curtis McCrackin — received less than 10% each.

In Gunnison County, Hurd received 568 votes (45%), with

GO WITH THE FLOW: Gunnison River Festival hooligan race contestants showed off their acro-yoga skills atop the rapids at the whitewater park on June 22. For more, see A9. (Photo by Mariel Wiley)

“Fishing allowed me to stop thinking about everything else and focus all of my attention on the present.”

— Ema Muslić , fly fishing guide See story on B1

Roughly 14 million skier visits last winter

Colorado Ski Country USA announced that Colorado saw a projected 14 million skier visits across the state for the 2023-24 season. A skier visit is counted each time a skier or snowboarder visits a mountain resort. This is a decrease of approximately 5% from last season’s record and represents the secondhighest total on record for the state.

The 2023-24 season was also notable for significant resort investments in the workforce and terrain expansions. Two new employee and community child care facilities anchored the season at Copper Mountain and Steamboat Ski Resort. Winter Park opened a new, 330- plus bed employee housing development within walking distance to the base. Aspen Mountain debuted its largest expansion in 40 years: 150 acres of new chutes, glades, and trails called Heroes. Steamboat wrapped the final phase of a three-year expansion called Mahogany Ridge.

New Upper Gunnison board members

Don Sabrowski and Brooke Zanetell were recently appointed to the Upper Gunnison River Water Conservancy District’s board of directors. Sabrowski was reappointed and will continue to represent Division 4 (Taylor River). Zanetell will replace Bill Nesbitt in Division 8 (City of Gunnison). Nesbitt has served on the board since 2008.

Housing Authority survey live

For the first time since 2016, the Gunnison Valley Regional Housing Authority is drafting a new regional housing needs assessment.

This month, the Housing Authority launched the second phase of its data collection process with a valley-wide community survey. The survey, also available in Spanish, will stay open through the end of July and is available at gvrha.org.

OBITUARIES

Lois “Skippy” White

A memorial service will be held for Lois “Skippy” White on July 5 at 2 p.m. at the Community Church of Gunnison, 107 N. Iowa.

Robert “Bob” H. Maurer

Robert “Bob” H. Maurer served in the army reserves from 1947 to 1950 and as a sergeant/cook in the army from Aug. 1950 to April 1952.

Born in Brooklyn, New York, Bob received formal art training at Cooper Union and the School of Visual Arts in New York, where he met the love of his life, Lydia, a fashion illustrator. He married her three-and-a-half weeks later. In 1959, they moved to Denver, Colorado to start a family. There, Bob was the art director for ABC TV. He opened Studio 10, then moved to the foothills of Boulder, Colorado, where he was a graphic designer for the National Center of Atmospheric Research.

In 1972, Bob and Lydia moved to Lake City, Colorado, bought a 100-year-old cabin and hand built an art gallery housing their studio and print shop. Later, they moved to Grand Junction and opened an art school and gallery there.

In 1985, they moved to the Old Chicken Farm Art Center in San Angelo, Texas. In 1986, Bob started computer design. In 1990, they moved back to Colorado and settled in Gunnison. There, they opened a studio and small gallery. They also joined the Paragon Co-op

Gallery in Crested Butte, where artists exhibit their artwork, and gave back to the community by donating their time and a portion of their profit. In January 2007, Bob's life as a husband and artist took another unexpected turn when he said goodbye to his wife and partner after 49 years of marriage. In 2011, Bob helped start the local co-op, Gallery 126, on Main Street in Gunnison.

Bob completed more than 1,200 oil and watercolor paintings—many placing first in art shows and competitions. His artwork has been shown in the Denver Art Museum, the Smithsonian and in private and corporate collections throughout the United States and abroad. Awards include the 2006 Crested Butte Wildflower Festival official poster design, Arts for the Parks Competition National Winner, Cartoonist and Illustrators School Life Drawing Award, The Fine Arts Federation of New York Alexander Medal, and in 2019, third place nationally in the Veterans' Art Competition.

Even with Alzheimer's and dementia, Bob continued to draw until he passed away at the age of 96 on May 23, 2024 at Aspen Ridge Alzheimer's Special Care Center in Grand Junction with family present.

He is survived by his four children, Marc Maurer, Kim Spirek, Lisa Blood and Toby Maurer, grandchildren, Tifanie, Traci, Jasen, Jessica, Amy, Patrick, Daniel, Kristopher, Christianna, Michael, Gillian and Juliana and many greatgrandchildren.

Bob will always be remembered for his artistic talents, dedication to his family and love of sharing his gifts and unwavering spirit.

A memorial service will be held at the Veterans Memorial Cemetery of Western Colorado, 2830 Riverside Parkway, Grand Junction, Colorado on July 9, 2024 at 10 a.m.

James “Jim” Stanley Barron departed this world on June 13, 2024 at the age of 84. He was born to Gloria and Archibald Barron in Boston, Massachusetts on December 19, 1939. His childhood in Harvard, Massachusetts instilled lifelong passions for nature and the outdoors. He attended Springfield College for his undergraduate studies, Stanford University for his master’s degree and Boston University for his doctoral studies in education.

Jim started his teaching and coaching careers as a physical education teacher in Massachusetts. In the 1960s, he moved with his wife to Colorado, where they had two children, Jed and Megan. He dedicated his career to education and held such roles as high school vice-principal and elementary school principal in Colorado Springs, Colorado. He held a professorship level role at the University of Colorado and, finally, as superintendent of schools in Saguache, Colorado.

His retirement brought Jim to Gunnison, where he spent the last 20 years of his life. He loved this special community and enjoyed being a part of the public library board, attending yoga classes, birding and participating in different community events. He was a loyal friend to many.

Jim was an avid reader and outdoorsman who climbed many fourteeners, taught Leave No Trace classes and skied or snowshoed miles and miles of Colorado terrain.

He is survived by his son, Jed and wife Seong-Hee of Seoul, South Korea, daughter, Megan and her husband, Scott of Dedham, Massachusetts, their children, Carter, Elliot and Lila and his siblings, Tom, Bill, Pete and Winnie. Jim is preceded in passing by his sisters, Patty and Connie. He leaves a number of nieces, nephews, other family and many friends.

Per Jim’s request, no memorial services will be held. In lieu of a service or flowers, Jim’s request was that donations be made to the Makindu Children’s Program at makindu. org/donate.

Devin Andrew Kwolek, 33, of Gunnison passed away on June 2, 2024. Devin was born on May 8, 1991, in Hartford, Connecticut. He was the youngest child of Gerald and Maureen “Gilly” Kwolek and "baby" brother to Branden, Dawn, Brian and Tyler.

Devin grew up in Colchester, Connecticut, spending much of his childhood enjoying the outdoors. As a child, he climbed Mt. Washington with his father, Gerald and brother, Tyler, forever fostering a lifelong love for the mountains.

Devin graduated from Bacon Academy in 2009. He went on to further his studies at the University of Connecticut, obtaining a bachelor's degree in psychology in 2014. Throughout high school and college, he

James Stanley Barron

Devin Andrew Kwolek

worked at St. Clement's Castle, assisting with banquets and formal events. There, he gained valuable experience in hospitality and compassion for others.

In 2015, Devin relocated to Crested Butte, Colorado to pursue a culinary career. Over the years, he worked as a chef at various restaurants and resorts, with Pitas in Paradise being the most significant chapter. Pitas played a crucial role in nurturing Devin's love and passion for food, becoming a cherished space where he crafted family meals, fostering a sense of togetherness, safety and fun among friends. Devin's impact at Pitas led to the establishment of a second restaurant in Gunnison and has become the "go-to" place for great food and even better company. Devin's legacy of friendship, affection and charisma will forever live on in the many meals served amongst friends at Pitas. Devin also enjoyed performing standup comedy at open mic nights, with his most prominent routine being "Have you seen my thighs?" He loved making people laugh and expressing his affection through his wellknown bear hugs.

More recently, Devin pursued a career change in the cement industry, working

BIRTHS

Asa James Tulip was born to Angela and Owen Tulip of Gunnison on June 4, 2024 at 7:15 a.m. He weighed 5 lb., 8 oz. and measured 20 in. long at birth. Welcome, Asa!

toward obtaining a CDL license. He found joy in working outdoors in the Colorado mountains, capturing the beauty of the scenery in photographs to share with family and friends. Devin embraced the challenges of winter, navigating snowy roads and tricky mountainous terrain, often capturing stunning images of sunlit mountains against vibrant autumn colors. For many, his spirit will forever evoke the beauty of a sunrise painted in vivid hues of yellow, orange and red.

Throughout his time in Colorado, Devin was a social butterfly and made many friends between the sister towns of Crested Butte and Gunnison, in addition to his childhood friends in Colchester. An avid lover of the outdoors and bringing people together, Devin loved to build intricate fire pits to share fond memories with friends. He also enjoyed traveling abroad, which started as a child to England and Ireland with his family. He then went to Spain with his brother, Tyler, after high school graduation and recently to Belize with his parents and siblings. Devin loved to meet new people, always opening his heart with compassion. He was a great listener, a generous son, affection-

Ryder Eliot Cremer was born to Cara and Zac Cremer of Gunnison on June 11, 2024 at 2:47 a.m. He weighed 6 lb., 14 oz. and measured 21 in. long at birth. He is welcomed by his grandparents, Fran and Chris Cremer of Silverthorne, Colorado and Sue and Linc Leapley of Las Cruces, New Mexico.

ate brother and a much-loved uncle. An avid animal lover with a special affection for cats, Devin particularly loved his own cats, Lady Grey Beard and Starfire. Devin knew how to put a smile on everyone's face with his infectious laugh and quirky sayings, often reserved for the best moments when we needed him the most. Devin will be dearly missed. May he beat on in our hearts and continue to be filled with unconditional love.

Devin is survived by his parents, Gerald and Maureen Kwolek, brothers, Branden Erickson, Brian Kwolek and Tyler Kwolek (Karrie Bordeau), sister, Dawn McNally (Jillian), nieces, Evelyn, Brenna, Keegan and Etoile and nephews, Beckham, Declan and Aelius, along with numerous extended family and friends.

A celebration of life for Devin will be held on July 11, 2024 from 4-6 p.m. at the AuroraMcCarthy Funeral Home, located at 167 Old Hartford Road in Colchester. A private burial for the family only will follow on July 12. In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to the Gunnison Valley Animal Welfare League at gvawl.org.

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Asa James Tulip

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© 2024 Gunnison Country Times

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THE GUNNISON COUNTRY TIMES (ISSN 0892-1113) is published weekly by Alan Wartes Media LLC., 218 N. Wisconsin St., Gunnison, Colorado 81230. Periodical postage paid at Gunnison, Colorado. POSTMASTER: Send address changes to: The Gunnison Country Times, 218 N. Wisconsin, Gunnison, CO 81230-0240

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2024

LETTERS POLICY

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

We will not print letters from candidates for public office.

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

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

OPINION

Think about it: A response, as requested

Ordinarily, I try to avoid tit for tat conversations in print. But this week we publish a letter from Mr. Joe Dix — whom I respect as a passionate and tireless community advocate — that deserves a response.

Like other recent letter writers, he disagreed with what I wrote in a commentary, “Will we choose war?” He and others misunderstood what I said, which has led them to mischaracterize it in their responses. Fair enough. That happens.

But this time Mr. Dix went a step further and misrepresented who I am in an unseemly personal attack. He characterizes my leadership at the Times as an “ominous unseen hand” through “somewhat preachy philosophizing and accusatory writing.” I know very well that I’ve never accused anyone of anything in print, but I will definitely own up to being guided in my thinking and writing by a philosophical view of the world. I would hope we could all say that. Trying to see beneath the surface of things is what makes us human.

I truly believe that the country I love has reached a pivotal crossroads. Which way we go will define our society perhaps for generations to come. Some see that as a binary decision between two candidates or their parties.

My crime, judging by what many letter writers say about it, appears to be that I don’t see it

LETTERS

Apology accepted

Editor:

In response to Bryan Wickenhauser’s letter in last week’s edition, I’d like to say to Bryan, and for all to hear: apology accepted.

Thank you, Bryan, for your public acknowledgement of mistakes made and your public apology. It takes courage to stand up before your community and admit that you have screwed up. I speak from personal experience here.

I also daresay to Bryan, on behalf of your community at large, we forgive you. Let’s remember this sage advice: “Let he who is without sin cast the first stone.”

Now, I’m no biblical scholar, but I think what Jesus is saying is that there ain’t a one of us who hasn’t messed up, done something we regret or wish we

that way, and I resist pressure to get in line and say that I do. Believe me, I take heat for that from all sides, though people on the right tend to be less public about it.

Here (again) is the essence of what I’ve been trying to say: The critical choice inherent in this moment in history is not in which “side” we support, but in how we behave as we work our way through conflict. I believe it matters how we treat each other even when — especially when — the disagreements that divide us are scary and hard. If that is “preachy,” then I am guilty as charged.

I’ll keep on preaching it, because I believe nothing else matters as much as maintaining the ability to conduct our affairs with integrity and mutual respect. To not speak up about that strikes me as wrong and a failure to fulfill the responsibility I’ve shouldered as publisher of the Times . In taking on this role, I never pledged to submit my conscience or my critical thinking to consensus rule. I stand on my right to think for myself and speak what I believe — and I defend everyone else’s right to do that as well. I prove that every time we publish letters that are critical and even hostile toward me or this newspaper — and we publish them all, without exception.

Clearly, not everyone will agree with something we write, but that has never been the standard for judging newspaper editorials. Where would we be if editors and publishers had never taken unpopular or uncomfortable stances on issues of their day: the civil rights movement, the Vietnam War, Watergate, local industries polluting a community’s air and water or public corruption, just to name a few examples. The history of community

could erase some part of our past. Judgment and condemnation are not for us imperfect humans to exercise.

We also appreciate the wonderful amenity you’ve brought to our community in the I Bar Ranch. We are excited for this summer’s season (you never know what that sleeper show is going to be; I’ve got my eye on Floodgate Operators) and look forward to your return to these fun and festive gatherings and to your continued contributions to our community.

Chris Dickey Gunnison

The ‘unseen hand’ of journalism

Editor:

For me, there are four kinds of newspapers. There’s the kind

journalism in America is filled with stories of rocks through windows, literal and figurative. Newspapers exist to “comfort the afflicted and afflict the comfortable,” as the saying goes, and people with good sense don’t want it to be any other way.

If there is an “unseen hand” in what I write, it is my deep belief in the difficult Christian ideal that we must strive to love our enemies and treat them as we wish to be treated. If we lose sight of that, then it is quite possible to be “right” about some issue or another and catastrophically “wrong” at the same time.

Jesus didn’t teach that we must agree with each other — only that in disagreeing we avoid the poison of hatred that leads so often to violence of all kinds.

Applying this ideal to realworld conflict is not new. It was precisely this philosophy that motivated some of the 20th century’s greatest leaders: Gandhi, Martin Luther King Jr. and Nelson Mandela. All sought to navigate incredibly difficult times with non-violence, grace, compassion and even forgiveness — while still holding firm to their beliefs about necessary social change. I’ve argued that it is now our turn to decide whether we will choose noholds-barred conflict or hold ourselves to a higher standard.

Finally, I’ve been challenged to justify my opinion that the recent case against former President Trump that led to conviction was built on a questionable legal foundation — and why that might represent the kind of behavior I’m warning against. I did not, as some claim, suggest that he should not be held accountable for any crimes committed — only that how this case was prosecuted left room for doubt about the

that predominantly represents the views of its readers; the kind that represents the views of the editor, possibly an editorial board and more ominously, the publisher or owner; the kind that takes “just the facts” approach; and what I will call the “unseen hand” of journalism.

The more I read the Gunnison Country Times the more I am coming to the opinion that the Times is parts of two and four. Let me be clear. My concerns are not with editor Bella Biondini or reporter Abby Harrison, the two of whom wrote every news article in the whole of the A section of last week’s Times Because I think we citizens have a responsibility to take part in our community, I try to get to public meetings and activities. I regularly see Biondini and Harrison at the

fairness of the process.

I am not alone in this opinion. Here is what former New York Governor Andrew Cuomo said recently on HBO’s “Real Time with Bill Maher.”

“That case, the attorney general's case in New York, frankly, should have never been brought … If his name was not Donald Trump and if he wasn't running for president. I'm the former AG in New York. I'm telling you, that case would have never been brought. And that's what is offensive to people. And it should be … Because if there's anything left … it's belief in the justice system."

Here are three of the things that have undermined that belief:

• An untested interpretation of the law allowed misdemeanors for which the statute of limitations had expired to be converted into felonies.

• The prosecution relied on the testimony of a convicted perjurer, which the judge allowed the jury to consider.

• The judge instructed the jury that they need not all agree on what crime was committed to return a guilty verdict — a move that is unprecedented. These are not “talking points,” they are verifiable facts. My point is not to defend former President Trump. It never was, no matter how many people claim otherwise. It is to point out that any time we adopt an “ends-justify-themeans” approach to political conflict — no matter how strongly we feel about it — we are making a Faustian bargain that we will almost certainly come to regret.

Think about it.

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

same events where I am. I’ve never seen the Times publisher, and, I guess, owner, Alan Wartes, at the local events where I am.

Wartes sees fit to write much about national and world events, less about local things. For me there is an irony in the Times policy of limiting the number of words in readers’ letters and the policy that “ … favor[s] local topics and discourage[s] argumentative letters … ” and Wartes’ free flow of somewhat preachy philosophizing and accusatory writing. I suppose it’s his paper. Our dollars pay for subscriptions to it and advertising within it. Think about it.

I’m reminded of the advice to write about what you know. That’s what editor Mark Reaman does in his Crested Butte News weekly editorials. Though I’m a step removed

Alan Wartes Times Publisher

LETTERS

from Crested Butte, I always read what Reaman writes. He writes with simplicity and with some elegance, usually with a bit of mirth, occasionally, gentle sarcasm and other times, pointedly. But his writing focuses nearly always on local activities and issues. I reckon Wartes would do well to study Reaman’s writing style.

There’s one more irony I’ve seen evident in the Times Wartes recently wrote about a “ … dangerous departure from the principles of judicial process … prosecuting a presidential candidate on questionable charges … ” implying the 34 guilty verdicts of falsifying business records in the first degree in the recent Trump trial were trumped up and a threat to our Constitution.

Trump was found guilty of all 34 felonies, unanimously, by a jury of citizens chosen by lawyers for the defense and prosecution. We need to trust what our newspapers write. Wartes wants us to believe his view that the legal proceedings were questionable.

As the Times publisher, having a bully pulpit, Wartes, I believe, has a responsibility to be factual. It’s easy to repeat talking points. It’s unfortunate when newspapers do it. It’s ironic that Wartes would use his newspaper to imply that a court, having evidence at hand, charged with finding truth, didn’t find it. But he, without showing evidence, did. Beware the ominous unseen hand. Think about it.

Joe Dix Gunnison

Better off without fireworks

Editor:

I think we, as a community, should open a discussion on the effects of fireworks on veterans, dogs and cats, birds and livestock. The effects can be life-threatening. First, I am concerned about the effects on our veterans.

One summer evening about 35 years ago, in another state, people I knew well — mother, father and their three young children — were preparing for bedtime, when the family was shattered by the first and only flashback the father suffered after his return from serving in Vietnam as a medic. He had a steady job, was not apparently stressed and had never shown signs of violence. That evening he loaded a pistol, origin unknown, and went into the yard of their home and began firing at shrubs and trees, and at a light in the house. The family was terrified and huddled in a closet. First responders endured three intense hours before they could approach and disarm him, and transport him to a hospital.

The flashback he was reliving was of a night over 20 years before, in heavy combat. The medevac helicopter he was in was shot down. Coming into the zone, he had noticed a small cave a hundred yards or so from

the crash site. After giving the most necessary treatment to the survivors, two infantrymen and a fellow medic, he helped carry them and led them through the pitch dark, through shelling and small-arms fire, toward the shelter.

For three hours, they made their way silently as possible, as he shot into the darkness at bushes, shadows behind trees, wherever it seemed that enemy fire was coming from. Once in the cave, he continued to shoot at any indication of movement toward them.

After daybreak, eight hours later, the group was rescued. He received a commendation for leadership and bravery.

He never told anyone about the experience and suppressed it until that Independence Day when some neighborhood fireworks triggered the trauma. It led to a full-blown flashback. He didn’t remember anything about this incident, and guilt overwhelmed him. He received some of the early treatments for PTSD, but he lost his job and his family, and carried guilt and grief all his life.

A few moments of the “thrill” of sudden explosions are not worth putting anyone through severe anxiety, let alone flashbacks. Also, they are not worth terrifying dogs and cats, or killing birds (or destroying their directional capabilities).Our county would be better off without personal fireworks of any sort.

Lora VanRenselaar Gunnison

Thank you for voting

Editor:

I want to extend a very sincere thank you to all the Gunnison County Electric Association (GCEA) members who exercised their right to vote in the recent election of directors.

Nearly 17% of members voted in this year’s election, about the same as last year. We value member participation and have a goal of 25% member participation in elections next year and encourage all members to vote in future elections. Democratic member control is one of the core governing principles of your cooperative.

I also want to thank the candidates and their supporters for promoting a healthy democratic process. Congratulations to Frank Stern on his successful campaign. We look forward to working with Frank. We appreciate the expertise he brings as we continue to pursue our enduring priorities of safety, reliability and business resilience and our strategic priorities, which focus on our members, community, environment, cooperative and employees.

Thank you, Shannon Hessler and Edward Howard, for your support of excellent governance and your desire to make a difference.

GCEA would like to extend special recognition to Mark Daily for his dedicated service and contributions as a member

of the GCEA Board of Directors for the past nine years. Mark was elected to the board in 2015. We are grateful to all the members who make the effort to vote for their directors.

We thank Mark for giving his time, energy and expertise to the governance of our cooperative and for his leadership on the GCEA Board and the Tri-State Generation & Transmission Association Board.

Mark brought his extensive knowledge of the industry and a commitment to sensible business practices to the boardroom for the benefit of the membership. It was a real pleasure working with Mark as we achieved many notable accomplishments over the past nine years. We wish him much success in his future endeavors.

Get this bridge fixed and opened

Editor:

I have contacted the governor's office regarding the despicable attempt of Gunnison County to reroute people via County Road 26 due to the middle bridge repairs on Hwy. 50. It is bad enough that the Colorado Department of Transportation (CDOT) doesn't possess the intelligence to access and fix the bridge. They had to call in special contractors, Kiewit, to do the project for them. What are they being paid for?

I have not traveled to Montrose since February. However, I needed to take care of some business and had no alternative. After sitting in line for 45 minutes — 10 of which were after all vehicles had passed and we had to wait until exactly 9:30 a.m. to traverse the road — I drove over a regular country road full of washboard, potholes and warped areas. I noticed that the road had been widened in some areas. However, there are no ongoing improvements to CR 26 and no need to limit traffic.

The information on the county website is outdated. There is no work being done on CR 26. Neither, I, nor my travel companion saw any heavy equipment or construction cones along the 16-mile country road. If you were using your Godgiven brains, you would have (in three months) chipped and sealed the road for heavier use as an alternative route around the lake in case of future emergencies.

The detour does not require a pilot car. It is not a construction zone. Traffic should flow freely in both directions, simultaneously as a regular detour route. We are all grown-ups and can think about how to drive down a country road without an escort. This is an embarrassment to the entire state.

It has been three months since the tiny weld defect was discovered. CDOT has been on the bridge 8 hours per day

Mike McBride GCEA

Meadows from A1

Residents at Country Meadows, recently renamed Ski Town Village, have been in limbo since the park went up for sale in 2021. Residents tried to purchase the park themselves, and then fought a substantial rent increase with a lawsuit. The park is located just north of town and houses approximately 350 people, many of whom can’t afford to move elsewhere.

The Colorado Department of Local Affairs Division of Housing opened an investigation in May after a park resident notified the agency that 13 homes had been without power since February. Shortly after the complaint against the owner was filed, the Division issued a cease and desist order, requiring them to address multiple violations of the Mobile Home Park Act. The state issues these notices when it believes someone is breaking the law. If they are ignored, the state can pursue legal action.

While the Division was notified that power had been restored at the beginning of June, the landlord has not yet filed an electrical permit with the state. According to the cease and desist order, state electrical inspectors believed repairing the damage would likely require trenching new lines to the lots without power. A permit is typically needed for this type of work to ensure that those conducting the electrical work are qualified and to prevent hazards such as fires and electrical shock.

The Division requested a safety inspection for the electrical work that was performed at the park earlier this month. Assistant County Manager for Community and Economic Development Cathie Pagano was made aware of the electrical problems this spring and also sent letters to the owner noting violations to the county’s land use codes.

In letters to the state and Gunnison County, park manager Mark Hodge claims to have

Fire station from

own property tax increase. Both failed by a narrow margin at the polls.

The city and the fire protection district have different boundaries, but are both served by the Gunnison Volunteer Fire Department. The fire department receives funding from city sales tax, as well as property taxes of those who reside outside of city limits — something that makes paying for a new station more complex than a single ballot initiative. The city has considered consolidation in the past, but it would also require voter approval.

The city is planning to present a simpler ask to voters this time. City Manager Amanda Wilson said it is likely the city and the fire protection district will pursue identical property tax increases, although this has

spent “many hours and many days traveling to and from Gunnison” to restore power to the park.

“If your goal is to mobilize multiple government agencies and ‘non-profit’ organizations to harass trailer park owners so that they regret owning investment real estate or conducting business in Colorado, then you have already accomplished that goal,” Hodge wrote in a letter to the Division of Housing and Gunnison County dated June 18.

On June 21, Ski Town Village put the mobile home park up for sale, just two years after it was purchased. Under the Mobile Home Park Act, residents have 90 days to make an offer to purchase the park and arrange financing. But the park is listed for $5.7 million, more than twice the price in 2021.

Long term outages

The Community and Economic Development Department has been issuing violations to Country Meadows, on county land just north of town, for three years without timely responses, citing evidence of interruptions to water service, poor conditions of the road through the park, overhanging tree limbs and aging sewer lines, Pagano said.

“The infrastructure is in difficult shape,” she said. “It hasn't been well maintained over the years. I have no doubt that it's costly to maintain and replace, and it is causing problems for the residents.”

More than a year ago, the City of Gunnison, which supplies power to the park, informed the new owner that one of the main electrical lines at the park was “faulty” and “not fully functioning,” the cease and desist order states. Over the next six months, park residents went to the city and Gunnison County for help, noting that problems with electrical service at the park “remained unchanged,” according to a letter from the city’s Public Works Director David Gardner in April 2024.

In May, the county contacted the state about reports of

not yet been discussed in detail.

The fire district recently received a $100,000 grant from the Colorado Department of Local Affairs that has doubled the planning budget, with work set to begin before the end of the year. Both the city and the fire protection district will put up a $50,000 match. The intent is to place another question on the ballot in 2025 after the release of more detailed conceptual drawings and cost estimates for a new fire station.

“We found out from the voters that they supported it [in 2021], but a lot of the feedback we got after we didn't pass the first time was that they wanted more solid plans,” said Fire Chief Hugo Ferchau.

The city’s persistence stems from the fire department’s need to reduce response times, have more training space and a safe place to store millions of dollars

13 homes in the park that had been without power for several months. A park resident also filed a formal complaint with the Division, which spurred the state to open an investigation. Because the case is still open, the Division declined to comment The Times also reached out to Hodge, but did not receive a response by press time.

According to the resident’s complaint, which is dated May 6, 2024, the resident had gone without power since February. Some of the tenants were running generators and spending their own money on gas and oil to power them. Others only had electricity in half of their homes. While the park owner said they were going to fix the problem, the residents’ phone calls and texts went unanswered, the complaint states.

After some back and forth between Hodge and the state in May, an electrical inspector told the Division that several contractors called them to discuss the park. But the inspector did not hear back from contractors “to move forward with the repair work,” according to the cease and desist order. An investigator later saw that some homes were sharing generators, and a cord ran across an irrigation ditch full of water.

The owner’s failure to restore power at Ski Town Village prompted the state to issue the cease and desist order on May 15. The Division found the owner to be in violation of the Mobile Home Park Act by failing to maintain a property that is safe for residents; to pay for the cost of maintaining and repairing the electrical lines; to ensure that utility connections are in good working order; and to reimburse residents for the loss of use of their property.

Repair Attempts

But Hodge told a different story in a letter to Pagano and Division program manager Christina Postolowski. He said he had difficulty finding an electrician and that he did not want to see residents without heat in the winter.

Some electricians didn’t answer, others didn’t call back, he said. The Blue Mesa bridge closure eliminated other options in Grand Junction and Montrose. While he had heard a range of possible solutions from electricians, none had “committed to a specific timeframe, a specific solution or a price,” he wrote.

“The ones [electricians] I am continuing to work with have a similar feeling to mine — a desire to make sure the people living

there have electricity restored … During this entire time I have done everything I can to get some to figure out a temporary solution while pursuing a permanent one,” Hodge stated.

Hodge said that he delivered firewood to tenants and purchased and rented generators and extension cords and paid to have them set up by one of the electricians. The cost neared $10,000, he said. He initially had someone refill the generators, but this “proved to be unreliable,” so he told tenants he would reimburse them for gas. The letter said no one had requested reimbursement.

On June 18, Hodge sent another letter to the Division and the county describing how he had addressed the electricity outage, along with other problems on the property, such as tree trimming and road maintenance. The county received a notice the park had been put up for sale less than a week later.

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

The Country Meadows mobile home park, recently renamed Ski Town Village, is located just north of town and houses approximately 350 people. (Photo by Mariel Wiley)

The existing fire station is 50 years old. (Photo by Bella Biondini)

worth of firefighting trucks and gear. An updated building will also help Gunnison maintain its crew of volunteer firefighters, a city department it cannot otherwise afford to pay for.

Led by Ferchau, an employee of the City of Gunnison, the fire department has been made up of volunteers for close to 150 years. The department is only two shy of the full roster (40 volunteers) this year following the recent addition of five new firefighters. On average, the crew responds to more than 300 calls a year, with a number of incidents in remote areas of the county such as Cochetopa Pass and Taylor Park.

Hosting a volunteer fire department comes with large cost savings for the city and Gunnison taxpayers, Wilson said. If the city had a paid fire department, it would spend an additional $4-7 million each

year. Currently, the city has a roughly $1 million budget for its fire services, which covers training, the fire chief’s salary and equipment and uniforms. Today, the cost of outfitting a single firefighter from head to toe can easily surpass $7,000. “We need to maintain and support our volunteer firefighters as much as possible, it is a huge asset … We currently do not have funding for that [a paid department],” Wilson said during a city council meeting in May. “And again, it’s not an optional service.”

This spring, a committee consisting of city council and fire district board members, volunteer firefighters and accountants from the city and the district met to start assessing the feasibility and cost of replacing the fire station. While the station itself is co-owned by the city and the fire district, the city would lead the project and public campaign.

candidates for House of Representatives District 58.

Hanks trailing behind with 329 votes (26%), according to unofficial results on Wednesday morning. Of the 27 Western Slope counties in CD3, 19 elected Hurd. Frisch, an Aspen business and city councilman, ran unopposed for the Democratic nomination.

Voters also selected party

Former Delta County Commissioner and cattle rancher J. Mark Roeber received the Republican nomination with 62% of the vote, besting opponent Larry Don Suckla of Montezuma County at 38%. Democrat and Gunnison local Kathleen Curry ran unopposed. With 2,800 ballots cast, voter turnout in Gunnison County for the primaries was 24%.

For the volunteers From the water heaters to the classroom and kitchen, much of the space is not only out of date, but unsafe. The existing fire station is a 50-year-old metal storage building that contains most of its original systems. When firefighters share meals at the fire station, they are eating in the same space where they clean their gear and fill their air tanks, exposing volunteers to carcinogens, Ferchau said during the meeting. Similar “vintage” fire stations caught on fire this year, resulting in huge financial losses in the districts and areas they serve. The Gunnison station stores 13 pieces of firefighting equipment at $7.5 million in value, and an additional million dollars worth of gear. And like a recent Los Angeles County fire in California in May, the old building does not have fire alarms or sprinklers.

This summer, all of the Gunnison County commissioner candidates ran unopposed within their respective parties. Democratic incumbents Liz Smith and Jonathan Houck will face Republican candidates Lisa Henry and Steve Bathje in November during the general election. Commissioner Laura Puckett Daniels’ term will not expire until 2026.

“It's not the safest place for firefighters over a long term,” Ferchau said. “And that's a big deal.”

The need for a new station also comes with a rising demand for more classroom space to train volunteers, who must learn everything from rope, trench and swiftwater rescue to how to respond to wildland and structure fires. As housing costs have increased, volunteers have purchased property further out of town and away from the station, making it difficult for firefighters to respond to calls from home, Ferchau told the Times . But there’s no real place for them to sleep overnight at the station. Despite the condition of the station, the Gunnison Volunteer Fire Department has continued to maintain a steady base of volunteers. It takes a great deal of time, with volunteers often giving up their evenings and weekends, Ferchau said Looking at

GCEA results

Results are in for the 2024 Gunnison County Electric Association Board of Directors election, which concluded on June 18. With 542 votes (36.6%) Frank Stern will fill the District 7 “at large” seat. Edward Howard received 513 votes (34.7%) and Shannon Hessler received 424 votes (28.7%). Polly Oberosler ran unopposed and will represent District 6. Just under 1,500 valid ballots

similar mountain communities, the paid Aspen Fire Department has more than a $10 million budget, but has half the staff.

“It’s not easy, but we get a lot of good people that want to help … I don't know if you've ever played sports, but it's a lot the same,” he said. “You're working hard together toward a common goal, and that definitely leads you to want to be around each other and work together.”

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

were cast, which is 16.5% of the 9,000 eligible members.

Stern and Oberosler will begin their three-year terms immediately.

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

School board split over renovation project budget

Concern over lack of transparency in spending decisions

Abby Harrison Times Staff Writer

This week, the Gunnison Watershed School District board approved an increase in its renovation budget to $120 million, bolstered by the reception of two grants from the state. The decision proved abrasive for the board members, and some questioned just how involved members should be in making line-by-line design decisions.

At a meeting on June 24, the board approved the budget increase — the second since Gunnison Valley voters approved a bond at the end of 2022 — but requested more transparency about how the executive committee was making spending decisions. In February of 2023, the board delegated power to the executive committee, composed of Superintendent Leslie Nichols, board president Tyler Martineau, the district’s Finance Director Tia Mills and Transportation Manager Paul Morgan, to guide the bond program.

of Education’s BEST program, meant for HVAC and security improvements like door latch detention, a new fence at Gunnison Community School and interior push lock buttons. In order to accept the grant, the district had to increase its budget to account for specific renovations required by the BEST grant. This increased spending does not require an additional ask from Gunnison Valley taxpayers.

When the board approved the $120 million, it also freed up millions in bond funds to spend on design elements, or “alternates.” These items, identified by user and design groups (made of principals, employees, students and parents) are projects they’d like to see in the renovated schools. In order to stay within the original $115 million budget, the district’s owner’s representative, Artaic, pulled out some of those alternates. Those elements would only be restored to the design if the district received more grant funding or had savings left over at the end.

At Gunnison Community School, those items include flooring replacement, paint finishes, replacing the stage curtain and upgrading the PA system. At Gunnison High School, those alternates include bike racks, replacing door hardware, football goal post repairs, fire alarm upgrades and an over $1 million addition of a new fitness room.

“I don't have a slightest idea how the team is making decisions,” VanderVeer said. “That's concerning to me.”

VanderVeer said he wanted the board to have the chance to weigh in on how leftover contingency money — money set aside to account for unknowns in the construction project — might be spent. Currently, there’s $13 million in contingency funds, just over 10% of the budget. As construction proceeds, and the overall risk to the project is expected to decrease, some of that contingency money could be left for other parts of the project.

But the board hasn’t been involved in a line-by-line level of detail for a reason, Nichols said. Months ago, the board (which did not yet include VanderVeer or Coleman) empowered the executive committee to make these decisions after gathering input from employees, principals, parents, students and the board. Further, the resolution states that any “major” decisions must be brought for board approval.

The vote split the board with Anne Brookhart, Jody Coleman and Tyler Martineau voting yes and Mark VanderVeer and Mandy Roberts voting no. Roberts voted no, partially out of health and safety concerns for a synthetic turf field, included as one possible design alternate.

This is the second time the board approved a larger budget. The first was in February of this year when the board signed off on $115 million, due to the district getting higher returns on its bonds than expected. Then in May, the district received just over $5 million from the Colorado Department

The executive committee still has to finalize how to spend money on these design pieces, if they will be funded at all. VanderVeer questioned the transparency of the budgeting process, and wanted to understand in greater detail how certain design elements were being added back into the budget. He was concerned that certain design items would not impact students directly. He brought up the over $230,000 upgrading the board room at Lake School, over $500,000 on exterior canopies on existing doors and over $200,000 on added projectors and displays at Crested Butte Community School.

“We can commit to sharing with you all in as much detail as you'd like to digest how those funds are being spent,” Nichols said. “But to have any waiting, or the board has to approve or ‘see it before you send it,’ doesn't work very well … We are making decisions all the time, and there is a level of trust that this resolution embodies for Tia, Tyler, me and Paul along with Artaic, to make these decisions.”

Executive committees keep the project moving, and Artaic is following guidelines the district set out for the bond project, said Artaic Group Principal Chris Guarino. This centers on safety, overcrowding and maintenance at all district campuses.

“We have heard loud and clear … That we've got to deliver bond promises. And we know it wasn't a landslide election, and we cannot be careless and we must be transparent,” Guarino said. “So that's our goal.”

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

The district’s valley-wide renovation project is well underway. At Gunnison Community School, crews broke ground on the large parking lot off 11th Street to improve the vehicle and bus drop-off loops. (Photo by Mariel Wiley)

River revelry

The Gunnison River Festival returned last week with another series of fun events on and off the water. The festival kicked off with the Taylor Downriver Race for kayakers and rafters on June 21. On Saturday, river rats and spectators flocked to the Gunnison Whitewater Park for a day packed with a swiftwater safety course, a river surf session and the crowd-favorite hooligan race. The festivities will continue with a SUP paddleboard event on Lake San Cristobal in Lake City on July 13. The Upper Gunnison River Water Conservancy District sponsored the festival alongside 28 other local businesses.

(Photos by Mariel Wiley and Abigail Krueger)

This charming single-family home, nestled in Gunnison's prime location, features two spacious living areas, vaulted ceilings, ample storage space, and fabulous upgrades throughout including new carpet, paint, window coverings, and appliances.

Scan here to search the latest Gunnison inventory! inventory!

LETTERS

continued from A5

for three months and the best you can do is let the steel plates sit on the bridge for 2-3 weeks, thinking about bolting them to the few areas in question.

And, to top it off, you close CR 25, for no good reason other than to limit or prohibit traffic from driving this perfectly good alternative route to your 16-mile show route. The 50 residents living around CR 25 would have been minorly inconvenienced for a short period due to increased traffic. However, this would have been minor compared to the thousands of people and delivery drivers you rerouted from Hwy. 50.

Now, you complain about the money, right? Due to this ongoing, slow,and ignorant action by both CDOT and Gunnison

County road crews, local businesses are suffering. This in turn means that the county may not have a lot of money now, but you will have even less in the next budget due to your indigent intelligence in addressing and fixing this bridge issue. Remember, you are all servants to the state of Colorado. As a taxpayer and voter, I say, “Get this bridge fixed, and opened. Allow regular traffic to flow down all roads in Gunnison County, and stop treating the people of this county and travelers like children needing a nursemaid.”

The Gunnison County Stockgrowers’ Association celebrated 130 years of service at its annual banquet this month. Members advocate for the land and livestock industry. (Left to right) Ken Spann and Greg Peterson (Distinguished Service Awards), Walt Cranor (Honorary Lifetime Membership) and Stacy McPhail (Valued Friendship Award).

Soil for the soul

Volunteers tended to the Mountain Roots Food Project garden behind the Gunnison Community School on June 20. The gardeners pulled up invasive cheatgrass, trimmed blooming buds from atop chives and prepared a soil bed for strawberries. Volunteers work at the school garden every Thursday from 3-5 p.m.

(Courtesy Pam Johnston/Gunnison County Stockgrowers’ Association)

(Photo by Mariel Wiley)

Teresa Golden Gunnison

County’s community block grant prevents evictions

State-backed grant program provides emergency funding

Abby Harrison Times Staff Writer

Many of the Gunnison Valley’s residents grapple with housing insecurity each year, facing low vacancy rates in the rental market and pricey forsale homes. But a multi-year grant through the Gunnison County Department of Health and Human Services can help keep locals housed by providing emergency housing funding.

The community service block grant (CSBG) provides money to people who need emergency rent, shelter, or help paying for utility bills and transportation. Families and individuals can also use the grant for one-time medical or behavioral health services, and even for help with hospice or palliative care. In 2023, Health and Human Services assisted 114 households, or a total of just over 240 individuals.

The county received funding, $195,000 split over three years, from the Colorado Department of Local Affairs (DOLA). Health and Human Services has been administering the program for over a decade. The amount of the grant depends on individual need, so it varies from family to family. That number could be anywhere between a couple hundred dollars to over $1,000.

The most common reason valley residents apply for the grant is for rent or mortgage assistance, said Elizabeth Holena, the department's wellness and enforcement services manager. Last year, 80% of surveyed households reported that the grant allowed them to stay in their home. Fifteen percent said they moved to a more affordable home and 5% moved out of the community.

“I think that it is absolutely preventing multiple families from being evicted each year,” Holena said. “There's not really another program that provides that level of assistance.”

Demand has been steady throughout the years. Each applicant can apply only once, in order to make sure the grant is serving as many locals as possible, Holena said. But the department is flexible in order to meet the community’s need, so in “extenuating” circumstances, an applicant might receive money more than once.

Typically, an applicant meets with a Health and Human Services intake worker to review their housing, work and fam -

ily circumstances. In addition to considering funding, the intake worker connects that person with various resources in the community, like the Gunnison Country Food Pantry.

Ninety days after the money is distributed, the department reaches out to check in, Holena said. But this process can progress more quickly if needed. Holena and her team will meet with families right away if the individual is facing eviction or immediate food insecurity.

Applicants who are approved for the emergency funding don’t receive cash. Instead, the department pays vendors directly. For example, if the applicant needs gas, the department pays the gas station.

“Typically, it tends not to be a very quick turnaround unless it's for an emergency hotel room, because there is a process in place to meet families and get to know them,” Holena said.

The grant application is available at Health and Human Services, Project Hope, with the valley’s law enforcement officers and at Gunnison Valley Health. Many employees at these organizations know of the grant in order to connect those in need, Holena said.

Law enforcement recommends the grant most often, Holena said. This is often to find hotel rooms in the winter or the middle of the night, and has been used for families passing through town. The hospital’s case management team includes discharge planners — tasked with ensuring patients leaving the hospital have a safe place to land and the care they need — who also use the grant as a resource. The funds can be used for specialized medical equipment for the home following surgery.

The department recently received for the first time a Homeless Prevention Activities Program grant, also from DOLA. That $20,000 will provide rental assistance for people facing imminent eviction, and is available for those between the ages of 18-24, or a family. More funding is available for each applicant through the homelessness grant (to help with past and future rent), but requires a contract and a case manager.

For more information on the block grant, email Holena at elizabeth.holena@state.co.us.

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

Today

Gear talk with gal pals

hosted a ladies’ night at

Sports on June 19. Rock

offered special discounts on apparel, gear and energy

for the event.

group enjoyed wine and hors

from local chef

catching up with friends and fellow riders.

then walked attendees through basic bike anatomy and demonstrated how to replace a chain and a flat tire.

Erin Smith of Sage MTBI (mountain biking instruction)

Rock ’N’ Roll

’N’ Roll

snacks

The

d'oeuvres

Chris Dressick while

Smith

(Photos by Mariel Wiley)

CPW confirms first Colorado-born wolf pup

This month, Colorado Parks and Wildlife (CPW) found evidence that one wolf pup has been born in Grand County, and it is possible more are present.

This is the first confirmed Colorado-born wolf pup since the voter-approved wolf reintroduction in December. Because these wolves have successfully reproduced, they are officially considered a pack. The pack name is the Copper Creek Pack. CPW biologists have been gathering evidence suggesting a male and female gray wolf pair have been denning, indicating reproduction. Some of this evidence includes GPS collar data.

The collared female’s GPS points stopped uploading

Frequently asked questions

When is the breeding season?

Wolves breed once a year during the late winter months, typically mid- to late February.

When do wolves start denning?

Wolf gestation is roughly 63 days. The animals typically start denning in midto late April.

They frequently reuse dens, with sites varying across habitats. Before the arrival of pups, dens are cleaned, remodeled and often expanded in preparation. Wolves will dig their own den, but can also expand an existing hole abandoned by a coyote, badger or other animal. Wolves may vacate a den if disturbed and relocate to a new site.

How and when will we know if there are pups?

On average, females give birth for the first time between 2 and 5 years of age.

After a gestation period of about two months, pups are born in the spring which coincides with the time local ungulates give

in early April, and resumed uploading later in April. The points for the female's collar showed a very localized position. CPW biologists interpreted this to mean that she was likely in a den, and therefore not in communication with satellites. The lapse in connectivity aligned with the expected timing of wolf reproduction. At that point, CPW staff began diligently working to confirm the den and whether pups are present.

On June 18, CPW biologists confirmed one wolf pup in Grand County. The confirmation occurred during routine wolf monitoring with attempted observations from the air and ground, remote cameras and public sightings. There are no

birth, enabling wolves to take advantage of easier prey.

Pups grow quickly between five and 10 weeks, becoming more physically capable and socially interactive. In early or mid summer, pups are usually moved to an aboveground “rendezvous site,” an area where pups stay with access to resources like water and shelter. Wolves can use one or multiple rendezvous sites per year.

How will we know when pups are present?

CPW staff will diligently monitor wolf locations and behavior to determine if wolves are denning. Depending on location and terrain, it can take weeks or months to determine if wolves have denned.

What is an average number of pups?

Females can give birth to as little as one or as many as 11 pups, with the average litter size falling between four and six. Pup survival rates vary widely by location and are difficult to study. Around half, or slightly more, of pups born often make it through their first year of life.

photos or videos at this time. Although biologists were only able to confirm one pup, wolf litters commonly consist of four to six.

“We are continuing to actively monitor this area while exercising extreme caution to avoid inadvertently disturbing the adult wolves, this pup, or other pups,” said CPW Wildlife Biologist Brenna Cassidy. For additional information about wolves in Colorado, visit cpw.state.co.us and sign up for Gray Wolf Reintroduction eNews.

(Source: Colorado Parks and Wildlife.)

When do wolves disperse?

Wolves have been known to disperse as young as nine months, but most wait until they are between one and 2 years old. While both males and females can leave their natal packs, males are more likely to disperse. Dispersing wolves may spend a few months to a few years by themselves before being able to form new packs with other dispersers or join an established pack.

How long do wolves live?

While captive wolves can live more than 10 years, wild wolves usually only survive 3-4 years.

Are the wolves from Oregon old enough to breed?

All wolves known to be in Colorado were capable of breeding in February 2024.

(Envato)

EMPLOYMENT

LITTLE RED SCHOOLHOUSE is hiring a full-time preschool teacher and a full-time infant/toddler teacher to start now and work through the school year and beyond. Looking for an enthusiastic, patient, nurturing team player who is wanting a stable career that is year-round, full-time. Great pay, fantastic benefits and many perks. This is a rewarding and fun job. Please inquire with resume to Jessica at lilredschoolhouse1@gmail.com.

PAVEMENT MAINTENANCE

TECHNICIANS WANTED TO JOIN THE SEALCO TEAM: $33+ hourly - $1,800+ weekly potential with performance and safety bonuses. Seeking motivated, hardworking and dependable individuals. No experience necessary. On the job training working outdoors. Paid weekly. Must be capable of lifting 60 pounds. Email resumes to Aaron@sealcoincorporated.com or call 970-641-4260.

ASSISTANT OPERATIONS MANAGER for PR Property Management. Full-time, year-round, starting now. Insurance reimbursement, IRA, ski pass. $28/hour DOE. Valid driver’s license and experience required. Please email prpropertyoffice@ gmail.com or call 970-349-6281.

GET PAID to help with the annual 4th of July parade and block party on Elk Ave. Contact director@cbchamber.com.

THE CRESTED BUTTE FIRE PROTECTION DISTRICT is looking for a fleet and facilities manager to ensure our emergency equipment, vehicles, stations and housing units are maintained and ready to serve our community. If you have automotive repair, general maintenance, communications and organizational skills, we want you on our team. Starting pay is $29.28-$34.86 per hour DOQ. Benefits include health, vision and dental insurance, 457-retirement plan with employer match, sick, vacation, family leave programs and annual ski pass. Visit cbfpd.org and click “Join Us” for additional information and application materials.

THE GUNNISON VALLEY REGIONAL HOUSING AUTHORITY (GVRHA) is hiring a property administrator to support the property management function of our affordable housing portfolio. Join our awesome team and contribute to a great cause. $20-$24 per hour DOE with benefits. Priority given to local and bilingual Spanishspeaking candidates. See full job description and how to apply here: gvrha.org/join-ourteam.

WATER TREATMENT FACILITY

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 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, paid sick leave, paid personal leave, employer contribution to retirement plan (5% automatic mandatory employer matching with 1-3% optional additional matching), employer provided uniforms and a wellness benefit/ski pass. Full job description is available at mcbwsd. com. Please submit cover letter and resume to Mt. Crested Butte Water and Sanitation District, P.O. Box 5740, Mt. Crested Butte, CO 81225 or email info@mcbwsd.com. Position is open until filled. MCBWSD is an Equal Opportunity Employer.

ID SCULPTURE IS HIRING

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

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

GUNNISON COUNTY EMPLOYMENT OPPORTUNITIES

Public Health Nurse II –Substance Abuse Prevention

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

Patrol Deputy Sheriff: Full-time, 40 hours/week, the annual salary range is from $70,288-$99,422 plus full benefits.

Detention Deputy Sheriff: Full-time, 40 hours/week, the annual salary range is from $63,162-$89,344 plus full benefits.

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

Building & Environmental Health Inspector and/or Building & Environmental Health Inspector/Plans Examiner Community Development: Fulltime, 40 hours/week, the annual salary range is from $63,162$99,422 depending on experience, plus full benefits.

Juvenile Services Facilitator II Juvenile Services: Full-time, 40 hours/week, hourly range from $30.36-$34.57 depending on experience plus full benefits. Bilingual, English and Spanishspeaking (required).

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

WESTERN COLORADO UNIVERSITY

seeks applicants for the full-time (40 hours/week) Security I position.

Starting pay rate $17.04/hour. This benefitted position is scheduled for night shifts (8 p.m.– 6 a.m.) and is paid an additional 14% ($19.42/ hour) for weeknights and 20% ($20.45/hour) for weekends. Duties include campus/grounds patrol, verifying safe conditions, crowd and traffic control for campus events, incident documentation and working with local law enforcement, as needed.

Western’s benefit package includes Colorado PERA retirement, low-cost insurance plans (with generous employer contributions to medical/dental/vision), employee and dependent tuition benefits, paid vacation, paid sick leave and 11 paid holidays per year. Employees receive basic life insurance and disability insurance at no cost. Employee wellness programs and professional development trainings are available for FREE.

To view the full job announcement and apply, visit western.edu/jobs and click on “View Careers” (AA/EOE).

We are currently seeking:

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

CITY OF GUNNISON EMPLOYMENT OPPORTUNITIES

Utilities Manager

Full-time, $109,200-$134,667/yr

$52.50-$64.74/hr

Responsible for all phases of the operation, maintenance, repair and security of the wastewater treatment plant, wastewater collections system and water distribution system including equipment, vehicles, grounds and the laboratory.

Construction Project Manager

Full-time, $149,100/yr

Up to 71.86/hr

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

Emergency Communications Specialist

Full-time, $54,000-$63,400/yr

$25.96-$30.48/hr

Performs public contact and communications duties necessary for the dispatching of all law enforcement agencies, emergency medical services and fire departments for emergency and non-emergency situations.

Police Officer

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

$33.13-$44.76/hr

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

Part-Time Openings

4th of July Workers - $29.90/hr

Water/Wastewater Operator Full-time

Starting Salary Ranges: Worker $49,700-$55,400

Class “D” $49,700-$58,367

Class “C” $54,600-$64,200

Class “B”

Responsible for the operation of the water supply, distribution and storage systems. They also perform maintenance, repairs and construction of water distribution, sewer collection, irrigation and storm drain systems, installations, repairs and testing on all water meters.

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.

depending on prior construction experience and/or aptitude.

Project Fabricator(s): The ideal candidate for this position has construction trades experience, welding experience, the ability to work well with a team and a positive attitude. Initial responsibilities are to fabricate various components for standard and custom products. Compensation is $23-$30 per hr. depending on prior construction experience and/or aptitude.

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

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

Learn more about what we do at idsculpture. com.

THE GUNNISON BANK AND TRUST is seeking applications for an assistant to the CFO. This is a full-time position that will be responsible for supporting the financial department of the bank. This includes, but is not limited to, the handling of transactions, month-end closing tasks, financial statement preparation, internal/external audit preparations, year-end close-outs, budget preparations, risk calculating and reporting

and other job-related duties as assigned. This position will support general accounting, accounts payable and payroll. Applicant should have a thorough understanding of accounting principles. Essential duties and responsibilities: monitors and maintains the general ledger, performs account analysis and reconciliation of balance sheet accounts and all subsidiary ledgers at month end, compiling and analyzing financial information for month-end reporting, including welldocumented journal entries for approval to ensure financial records are accurate, resolving accounting discrepancies, yearend closing tasks, fixed asset accounting; investment accounting, monitoring cash balances daily. Assist other departments and bank officers as needed. Ability to effectively present information and respond to questions from employees and/or customers. High level of oral and written communication skills, attention to detail, ability to organize work and set priorities to meet deadlines, be an effective team member. Ability to plan, initiate and complete work assignments with a minimum of direction. Comprehensive knowledge of use of financial, worksheet and word-processing software, including Excel and Word. Recognition as a CPA is a highly desirable qualification, with a minimum of four years of progressively responsible experience in accounting. Competitive and comprehensive benefits package includes 401(k), medical insurance, vision insurance, life insurance and disability insurance (ST and LT), paid time off, holiday pay and wellness benefits. Monthly salary range: $4,875-$6,250 DOE. Please email resume to apply@gunnison.bank.

or to submit a resume, please visit theclubatcrestedbutte.com or email jobs@ clubatcrestedbutte.com.

GUNNISON VALLEY MENTORS IS HIRING BILINGUAL PLUS MENTORS IN GUNNISON AND CRESTED BUTTE:

Qualifications: Spanish and English language proficiency, strong interpersonal and academic skills, experience working alongside youth ages 6-17, strong organizational and youth advocacy skills. Innovative approaches to problem solving. Ability to collaborate with community youth and family serving agencies and organizations. Ability to make a two-year commitment, exhibits a growth mind-set. Responsibilities: Works one-on-one with up to 12 referred youth, providing social-emotional and academic support in school and/or community settings. Benefits: Employee wellness stipend, liberal PTO, retirement plan, awesome team, some flexibility in scheduling, although considerable time will be spent in school during the school day. Benefits: Employee wellness stipend, liberal PTO, retirement plan, awesome team and a superb opportunity to elevate young folks into healthy and hope-filled futures. Contact Johnna Bernholtz, CB Senior Case Manager, for job description and additional information at jbernholtz@gvmentors.org.

WET GROCER IS HIRING SUMMERTIME HELP: Apply at the store. 970-641-5054.

GUNNISON RIVER FLY SHOP: Part-time sales in the fly shop, 20 hours per week, set schedule with the opportunity to pick up more hours as needed. Must be knowledgeable about fly fishing and the Gunnison Valley. Must be able to pass a background check and drug test. We are a very friendly, customer-oriented business and any retail sales experience will help. Honesty and integrity are a must, we prosecute all employee theft cases. Women, retirees, veterans and first responders encouraged to apply. Stop in for an application.

GUNNISON COUNTY ELECTRIC

ASSOCIATION, INC. is currently seeking applications for a System Locator/Inspector position. This is a full-time position that will be reporting to the Gunnison Headquarters location. This position will be responsible for accurately detecting and marking existing underground electric lines in a timely manner. During summer months the number of locates per day required is high and requires working in a fast-paced environment while still detecting lines accurately and safely. Diligence is required to complete the high number of locates in a timely manner. Other duties include inspection, GPS and documenting overhead and underground facilities. The pay range for this position is $55,078-$73,445 per year and is paid on

an hourly basis. Starting compensation will be based upon work experience, education and/or skill level. In emergency and highdemand times, 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, visit our website at gcea.coop/about tab/careers tab. Application deadline July 10.

LABORER NEEDED for heavy civil construction work. Please call 970-209-2729 for more info. The work is in Gunnison.

CENTRAL DISTRIBUTING COMPANY is hiring a contract merchandiser. Beverage merchandising position hiring ASAP. Monthly pay. For more information/to apply, please call Lindsey at 970-243-0024.

PUBLIC HOUSE IS SEEKING A MOTIVATED LINE COOK to join the team. This role is directly responsible for all kitchen functions including food, preparation and maintenance of quality standards, sanitation and cleanliness, preparation, plate presentation, portion and cost control. This position will work closely with managers and co-workers to provide excellent service to customers. This position requires 2-plus years cooking experience in a full-service restaurant, problem solving abilities, self motivation and organization. This position also requires knowledge of ingredients for flavor profiles and basic cooking techniques. The ideal candidate will have a culinary certificate and/or degree and knowledge of cuisine and familiarity with wine pairings. This full-time, seasonal position starts at $25-30/hour plus tips, depending on experience and qualifications. The season runs May-Nov. We also offer opportunities for career growth within our organization. If you are passionate about cooking and thrive in a dynamic kitchen environment, we would love to hear from you. For more information and to apply, please visit elevenexperience. com/careers.

ROOFERS/LABORERS WANTED: No experience necessary. All safety gear provided. Starts at $27/hour. Call or text Curtis. 970-452-1476.

ELEVEN IS SEEKING A TEAM-ORIENTED AND FELXIBLE 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 one 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-Oct. Position will start right away. For more information and to apply, please visit elevenexperience.com/careers.

CBMR IS HIRING FRONT OFFICE

MANAGER: Seeking an experienced manager for the Lodge at Mountaineer Square. Managing a team with hotel experience is key. Salary $55-60k. Housekeeping supervisor: Inspect and help clean units for outer properties across Mt. Crested Butte and ensure proper procedures are followed. $22-24/hr. Front desk agent: Lodge at Mountaineer Square is seeking full-time front desk agents for the summer season. $20/hr. Please contact Michael Laird, 970-349-4044 or mlaird@vailresorts. com with inquiries.

ALPINE INN is looking for a front desk attendant. Part-time and full-time positions available. Please call Teresa at 970-2750611.

FACILITIES MANAGER: Crested Yeti Property Management is hiring for a facilities manager/maintenance manager. Full-time, year-round salaried position. Benefits include IRA match, ski pass, PTO and paid fuel. Duties include driving a bobcat for snow removal and general maintenance and minor repairs. Send resume to Hop@CrestedYeti. com.

DO YOU LIKE VARIETY? HELPING

PEOPLE? WORKING WITH AN AWESOME TEAM? Join our caring and supportive practice as a dental assistant. No experience preferred. Happy to train anyone open to learning new skills and who enjoys helping people. Full time, year round, competitive pay and benefits, lots of room for growth. Shoot us an email with your cover letter and resume to amy@crestedbuttedentist.com.

GUNNISON VALLEY MENTORS IS HIRING

A BILINGUAL CASE MANAGER IN CRESTED BUTTE: Qualifications: Spanish and English fluency. BS degree or higher in human services, education, social sciences or related fields desired, although lived experience will be considered. Desire to work with young folks in school and community environments. Strong organizational and youth advocacy skills. Innovative approaches to problem solving. Ability to collaborate with community youth and family serving agencies and organizations. Ability to make a two-year commitment. Responsibilities: Recruit, screen and process potential mentors for referred youth, intake youth and families, organize and attend monthly group recreational activities, provide professional case management services to a caseload of up to 25 school and community-based mentoring partnerships, plan, implement and evaluate mentoring partnerships, arrange and attend workshops, conferences and other professional development opportunities as related to the position, work directly with mentors, mentees and families to build youth resiliency skills. Benefits: Employee wellness stipend, liberal PTO, retirement plan, awesome team, hybrid work option with flexible scheduling. Contact Johnna Bernholtz, CB Senior Case Manager, for job description and additional information at: jbernholtz@gvmentors.org.

position has overall responsibility for the dayto-day operations and managing all aspects of the wastewater department. Important qualifications include a combination of treatment operations, employee supervision, construction and regulatory compliance.

A State of Colorado Wastewater class “B” or “A” and/or Collection class “3” or “4” license or the ability to obtain such within one (1) year is expected (training for certifications provided). A valid Colorado driver’s license is required. Starting salary is $90,000-$130,000 DOQ. Excellent benefits package, including 100% employer-paid premium family health, dental, vision and life insurance, 12 paid holiday days, two weeks paid vacation, paid sick leave, paid personal leave, employer contribution to retirement plan (5% automatic mandatory employer matching with 1-3% optional additional matching), employer provided uniforms and a wellness benefit/ski pass. Full job description is available at mcbwsd. com. Please submit cover letter and resume to Mt. Crested Butte Water and Sanitation District, P.O. 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 DRIVER: JOIN OUR TEAM. PAID CDL TRAINING. Mountain Express is looking to recruit drivers for immediately available shifts. We will offer CDL training at an outside CDL training agency, as well as a sign-on bonus. Starting wage is $22.60/hr. Health insurance is available based on hours worked. Ski locker benefit. Drivers are responsible for safe transport and friendly assistance of passengers on our bus route. Please contact Leah Petito at lpetito@mtnexp.org to apply and for a complete job description, visit mtnexp.org. EOE.

TOMICHI MATERIALS, LLC is seeking concrete ready-mix delivery truck drivers. CDL-B license and pre-employment drug screening required. $30/hour and above DOE. Company-match IRA, health and dental insurance, paid holidays and sick time, vacation earned after 1 year, job attached status available during off-season. Call 970-641-4038 or email jamespfrymoyer@ gmail.com to express interest and obtain an application.

GARAGE / YARD SALES

YARD SALE AT PLOTTS MINI STORAGE: 312 W. Hwy 50. June 29, 8 a.m.-5 p.m.

THREE FAMILY GARAGE SALE: June 28, 8 a.m.-4 p.m., June 29, 8 a.m.-12 p.m. Antique youth bed, antique steam trunk, antique smaller sewing rocking chair, vintage oak desk, camping tents, some camping equip, vintage navy foot locker, housewares, lots of misc. 129 Park Dr.

NOTICE

C-KARS AUTO AND TRUCK REPAIR IS FOR SALE: Owner wants to retire. 970-6414060.

DENTAL PATIENT RECORD

Richmond, Tyler Morgan, Leo Galvez, James Gerweck, Corg Best, Brent Johnson, Joshua Eastman, Ryan Helgerson, Daniel Hatch, William J Barminski.

BOARD OF DIRECTORS WANTED: Mountain Roots seeks dedicated people to shape the future of the organization and advance local food systems. A variety of skills are needed: events, finance/business, advocacy/organizing, leadership, strategic planning and more. Diverse community members, part-time residents, valley-wide encouraged to apply. (Mostly) monthly meetings, abundant fresh food and amazing group of dedicated people. More info at mountainrootsfoodproject.org.

REAL ESTATE

1,500 SQ. FT. RETAIL/OFFICE SPACE

AVAILABLE in the Gunnison Meadows Mall next to City Market. Address: 722 N. Main. $22/ft. NNN = $2,750/month. For more information, call Jordon Ringel, 817-7336947 or visit GunnisonMeadows.com.

GUNNISON RIVER RETIREMENT COMMUNITY CONDO FOR SALE: Two bedrooms on

WASTEWATER TREATMENT FACILITY

SUPERVISOR: The Mt. Crested Butte Water and Sanitation District is accepting applications for a Wastewater Treatment Facility Supervisor. Under the general direction of the district manager, this fulltime position is responsible for directing the wastewater and collection operations for the district and serves as the operator in responsible charge for both systems. This

DESTRUCTION NOTICE: Community Dental Health Clinic / PIC Place at 87 Merchant Drive, Montrose, CO 81401 and the dentists mentioned below will be destroying dental records for their adult patients which are older than 05/2017 and records of pediatric patients which are older than 05/1999 per Colorado Dental Board regulations. If you do not want your records destroyed and wish to retrieve your dental records, please contact us at 970-252-8896 and press option 2. There will be no charge for your records.

Rahul Salunke, Andrew Loomis, Todd Southhall, Christopher Burchette, Tim Howard, Robert Saunders, Terry Butler, Sabrina Butler, Amiee Rawlings, Richelle

HEARING DATE, TIME AND LOCATION:

The Gunnison County Planning Commission will conduct a site visit at the subject property at 277 County Road 50, Gunnison CO on July 18, 2024 from 9:00am – 9:30am followed by a public hearing at 221 N. Wisconsin St., Suite D, Gunnison, CO on July 18, 2023 at 9:45 a.m. in the meeting room upstairs in the Blackstock Government Center, 221 N. Wisconsin St. in Gunnison and/or by ZOOM meeting. If attending by Zoom please go to the online meetings tab at https://www. gunnisoncounty.org/144/Community-andEconomic-Development for the ZOOM meeting link to hear public comments.

APPLICANT: Hartman Castle Preservation Corporation, 303-956-0886, info@ hartmancastle.org

PROJECT LOCATION AND LEGAL

DESCRIPTION: 277 CR 50, GUNNISON, COLORADO, AND LEGALLY DESCRIBED AS TOWNSHIP 49 NORTH, RANGE 1 WEST, N.M.P.M., SECTION 11: TWO PARCELS OF LAND LOCATED IN THE SE ¼ NW ¼ NW ¼ OF SAID SECTION 11, AND FURTHER DESCRIBED IN THE SPECIAL WARRANTY DEED AT RECEPTION NO. 612691, GUNNISON COUNTY CLERK AND RECORDER, COUNTY OF GUNNISON, STATE OF COLORADO.

SUMMONS

DISTRICT COURT, GUNNISON COUNTY, COLORADO

Address: 200 East Virginia Avenue Gunnison, Colorado 81230 (970) 642-8300

Plaintiff: PEARLS MANAGEMENT, LLC, a Colorado limited liability company, v. Defendants: TOWN OF MT. CRESTED

PROPOSAL: The applicant proposes a change in use to use the historic Hartman Castle and grounds used for weddings, events, community gatherings, and educational purposes. The Hartman Castle will be available year-round, and the grounds will be used seasonally. No new structures are proposed.

PUBLIC PARTICIPATION: The public is invited to submit oral or written comments during the online ZOOM meeting, or to submit written comments by email: planning@ gunnisoncounty.org; or letter (Community Development, 221 N. Wisconsin, Suite D, Gunnison, CO 81230), so long as they are received by 5 p.m. the afternoon before the date of the meeting so that they may be submitted for the public record during the hearing.

HOW TO VIEW THE APPLICATION: A copy of the application is available online at: https://www.gunnisoncounty.org/436/PermitDatabase. Select “projects” and type LUC24-00011 in the application number field. If you have questions or issues accessing the files, contact the Community Development Department at (970) 641-0360.

ADA ACCOMMODATIONS: Anyone needing special accommodations as

BUTTE, COLORADO, a home rule municipality; CRESTED BUTTE LTD., a Colorado limited liability company; and ALL UNKNOWN PERSONS WHO CLAIM ANY INTEREST IN THE SUBJECT MATTER OF THIS ACTION

Attorneys for Plaintiffs: HUCKSTEP LAW, LLC

Aaron J. Huckstep, Atty Reg No. 39898 426 Belleview Ave, Unit 303 P.O. Box 2958 Crested Butte, CO 81224 Telephone: (970) 349-2009

determined by the American Disabilities Act may contact the Community Development Department prior to the day of the hearing.

s/ Hillary Seminick, AICP Planning Director, Gunnison County Community Development Department Gunnison Country Times Gunnison, Colorado Publication date of June 27, 2024

13926

PUBLIC HEARING

NOTICE OF PUBLIC HEARING

CONCERNING LUC-24-00022, A LAND USE CHANGE PERMIT APPLICATION FOR A MINOR IMPACT LAND USE CHANGE FOR A STRUCTURE LARGER THAN 5,000 SQ. FT.

LOCATED ON LOTS 6 & 7 OF THE HOMESTEAD SUBDIVISION, AKA 365 RAINBOW LANE, ALMONT, CO

HEARING DATE, TIME AND LOCATION: The Gunnison County Planning Commission will conduct a public hearing on July 18th at 10:20 a.m. in the meeting room upstairs in

Facsimile: (970) 797-1023

E-mail: huck@hucksteplaw.com

SUMMONS BY PUBLICATION

TO THE DEFENDANTS NAMED ABOVE: You are summoned and required to appear and defend against the claims of the complaint filed with the court in this action, by filing with the clerk of this court an answer or other response. You are required to file your answer or other response within 35 days after the service of this summons upon you. Service of this summons shall be

the Blackstock Government Center, 221 N. Wisconsin St. in Gunnison and/or by ZOOM meeting. If attending by Zoom please go to the online meetings tab at https://www. gunnisoncounty.org/144/Community-andEconomic-Development for the ZOOM meeting link to hear public comments concerning this land use change permit application.

APPLICANT: The applicant is Munir Lalani (LFSH CO LLC), represented by Ethan Hampton, Architect.

PARCEL LOCATION: The property is located at 365 Rainbow Ln., Almont, CO. Legally described as lots 6 & 7 of the Homestead Subdivision. Parcel No. 351722003007.

PROPOSAL: The applicant is requesting approval for the construction of a 6,204 square foot single-family residence, including an attached garage over. The proposal is classified as a Minor Impact Project, pursuant to LUR Section 6-102:B – Maximum Building Size Larger Than 5,000 sq. ft. And Aggregate Square Footage Larger than 7,000 sq. ft.

PUBLIC PARTICIPATION: The public is invited to submit oral or written comments at the hearing, or to submit written comments

complete on the day of the last publication. A copy of the complaint may be obtained from the clerk of the court.

If you fail to file your Answer or other response to the Complaint in writing within 35 days after the date of the last publication, judgment by default may be rendered against you by the court for the relief demanded in the complaint without further notice.

This is an action to quiet the title of the Plaintiff in and to the real property situate in Gunnison County, Colorado, more

by email: planning@gunnisoncounty.org, or by letter (Community Development, 221 N. Wisconsin, Suite D, Gunnison, CO 81230), so long as they are received by 5 p.m. the afternoon before the date of the meeting so that they may be submitted for the public record during the hearing. A copy of the application is available in the Community Development Department, 221 N. Wisconsin, Suite D, Gunnison, CO; additional information may be obtained by calling the Planning Office (970) 641-0360.

ADA ACCOMMODATIONS: Anyone needing special accommodations as determined by the American Disabilities Act may contact the Community Development Department prior to the day of the hearing.

/s/ Sean Pope Planner I Gunnison County Community Development Department

Gunnison Country Times Gunnison, Colorado Publication dates of June 27, 2024 13936

Dated: June 21, 2024

/s/ Aaron J. Huckstep

Gunnison Country Times Gunnison, Colorado Publication dates of June 27, July 4, 11, 18, 25, 2024 13924

Dinner and a (deadly) show

To escape the summer heat, actors presented a

show for an audience at the Almont Resort on June 21. Guests enjoyed a three-course meal while watching Firebird Theatre’s “Murder Well Done!” play. Each table

(Photos by Mariel Wiley)

Lights & Sirens

CITY OF GUNNISON POLICE REPORT

JUNE 17

PROPERTY - FOUND — 112 S. SPRUCE ST.

DEATH INVESTIGATION — N. COLORADO ST. PROPERTY - FOUND — 112 W. SPENCER AVE.

PROPERTY - FOUND — 200 E. VIRGINIA AVE.

JUNE 18

PROPERTY - FOUND — 201 W. VIRGINIA AVE.

DEATH INVESTIGATION — W. GUNNISON AVE.

ADMIN - UNASSIGNED INCIDENT — 200 E. VIRGINIA AVE.

CRIMINAL TRESPASS - SECOND DEGREE - FENCED PROPERTY — 307 S. 7TH ST.

ABANDONED VEHICLE — 601 S. 10TH ST. DEATH INVESTIGATION — W. TOMICHI AVE.

ALARM — 232 W. TOMICHI AVE.

JUNE 19

HARASSMENT: REPEATED COMMUNICATIONS — 912 W. GUNNISON AVE.

CONTROLLED SUBSTANCE: UNLAWFUL POSSESSION - EXCEPT MARIJUANA — 821 W. TOMICHI AVE.

ANIMAL - RUNNING AT LARGEMUNICIPAL — 221 N. WISCONSIN ST. VIOLATION OF PROTECTION

ORDER: CRIMINAL ORDER — S. 11TH ST.

THEFT: INTENDS TO PERMANENTLY DEPRIVE — 303 N. WISCONSIN ST.

JUNE 20

ANIMAL: DANGEROUS — 800 E. TOMICHI AVE.

FAILED TO YIELD RIGHT OF WAY WHEN PROCEEDING FROM STOP SIGN — S. BOULEVARD ST. UN-SECURE PREMISES — 400 W. TOMICHI AVE. PROPERTY - LOST — 711 W. RIO GRANDE AVE.

JUNE 21

CRIMINAL TRESPASS - MUNICIPAL — 304 W. TOMICHI AVE.

ANIMAL TREATMENT: FAILED TO PROVIDE FOOD, SHELTER, WATER, CARE — 600 N. COLORADO ST. TRAFFIC - UNSAFE BACKING — 880 N. MAIN ST. PROPERTY - FOUND — 201 W. VIRGINIA AVE.

JUNE 22

THEFT - COMMITS TWO OR MORE THEFTS AGAINST THE SAME PERSON X17 — 900 N. MAIN ST. CRIMINAL MISCHIEF — 505 N. 8TH ST.

CIVIL PROBLEM — 7 FLORESTA ST. ACCIDENT - HIT AND RUN — W. NEW YORK AVE.

JUNE 23

PROPERTY - FOUND — 275 S. SPRUCE ST. CIVIL PROBLEM — 821 W. TOMICHI AVE.

HARASSMENT: STRIKE, SHOVE, KICK — 600 N. COLORADO ST.

RESISTING ARREST: PHYSICAL

FORCE — 200 E. SPENCER AVE.

DISORDERLY CONDUCT - COARSE OR OFFENSIVE — 900 N. MAIN ST.

GUNNISON COUNTY POLICE REPORT

JUNE 18

-Deputies issued a summons for driving when license is revoked

-Deputies assisted the Gunnison Police Department as cover for an unattended death

-Information report - harassment

JUNE 19

-Information report on issues with neighbors not cleaning up after their dogs and frequent barking

-Harassment through social media reported

-Fraud case where someone is trying to rent houses that are only for sale and not owned by the scammer - under investigation

-Deputies assisted the GPD with a possible domestic in progress

JUNE 20

-Information - identity theft report in the Somerset/Marble area

-Deputies assisted the GPD with a trespass call

JUNE 21

-Somerset deputies assisted the Colorado State Patrol with a singlevehicle accident on County Road 12

JUNE 22

-Menacing report between Tincup and Taylor Park - under investigation

-Deputies took a dog found by Blue Mesa to the Gunnison Valley Animal Welfare League. The dog’s owner made contact to pick the dog up.

JUNE 23

-Deputies assisted the GPD with possible domestic in progress

-Deputies assisted the GPD with a dispute in progress

-Deputies assisted the CSP with a car-versus-deer accident on Hwy. 135

-Deputies assisted the GPD with another dispute in progress

JUNE 24

-Somerset/Marble deputies took an information report on a family dispute

-Somerset deputies took an identity theft report

-Deputies issued a summons for driving under suspension

-Deputies took a fraud report

-Deputies assisted the Crested Butte Marshal's office with a recovered stolen vehicle

-Deputies did a welfare check

Join the City throughout the Summer!

During the 1st and 3rd weeks of June, July, and August, come ask questions, share thoughts, and have conversation with officials from your City government! Rain or shine, see you there! Pueden conversar también en español.

Mayor Mondays at Mochas

12:00-1:30pm | July 1st & July 15th

Grab your own coffee or lunch and sit down with Mayor Plata for conversation at Mochas Coffeehouse.

Wednesday Walks with Wilson

12:00-1:30pm | July 3rd & July 17th

Meet City Manager Wilson for a lunchtime walk & talk at the Canal Trail across from Kelley Hall lot on Western’s campus.

Thursday Thoughts at IOOF

4:30-6:00pm | July 18th

Engage with City officials to discuss various projects, ask questions, or share your perspectives.

Care designed for ...

ATHLETES

At Gunnison Valley Health we believe in supporting the valley’s incredible athletes by offering quality care to enhance performance and recovery from injuries.

REHABILITATION & ATHLETIC MEDICINE

We offer a diverse range of cutting-edge services to keep you active and well.

HOSPITAL | 970-641-7268

711 N. TAYLOR | GUNNISON

PRIMARY CARE

GUNNISON | 970-641-2001

322 N. MAIN ST. | GUNNISON

CRESTED BUTTE | 970-349-5684

214 6TH AVE. | CRESTED BUTTE

With family medicine, internal medicine and pediatric care, we can help you be at the top of your game.

GUNNISON | 970-642-8413

707 N. IOWA | GUNNISON

WCU CAMPUS | 970-943-2707

104 TOMICHI HALL | GUNNISON

CRESTED BUTTE | 970-642-8413

305 S. 6TH | CRESTED BUTTE

Dr. Blake Clifton and Dr. Gloria Beim have the skill and expertise you need to recover from acute injuries and return to activity quickly and safely.

WE WORK HARD TO KEEP YOU PLAYING HARDER

GUNNISON | 970-641-8899

112 SPENCER AVE | GUNNISON

CRESTED BUTTE | 970-349-5103

405 ELK AVE | CRESTED BUTTE

TELLURIDE | 970-641-8899

500 W PACIFIC AVE | TELLURIDE

COMMUNITY: Upper Gunnison celebrates 65 years, B3

ART: The power of the summer solstice, B11

SPORTS: U12 softball squeaks past Buena Vista, B8

GUNNISON COUNTRY TIMES • THURSDAY, JUNE 27 2024

Women on the water

Muslić and Digregorio lead fly fishing clinics

Alex McCrindle Times Sports Editor

Wind whipped across the Gunnison River, rippling the brunette ponytail of Gunnisonbased angler Ema Musli ć . She cast her line into a bubbling pool and watched the bobber glide downstream. The afternoon sun reflected off her sunglasses as she waited for a Brook trout to snatch her fly.

Muslić is a guide at Dragonfly Anglers in Crested Butte, and one of just a few women fly fishing guides in the Gunnison Valley. In a male-dominated sport with a reputation for being expensive and pretentious, Musli ć and Westfeather Fly Fishing founder Domenic Digregorio have teamed up to open doors for female anglers. This season, Digregorio and Musli ć have been teaching women's fishing clinics with

Westfeather, giving away free rods and introducing ladies to the water.

“When I first started guiding, I found that a lot of ladies were uncomfortable asking questions to male guides,” Musli ć said.

“I don’t know if they’re intimidated or worried about asking ‘dumb questions,’ but I’ve noticed ladies open up with me, which I really enjoy.”

Fly fishing is an angling technique that uses lightweight flies that mimic aquatic insects. Fly fishermen use an alternative cast that requires looping their line and laying the flies onto the water. This method, considered an art form by most anglers, is notoriously difficult to master.

That, matched with the soaring prices of gear and the sometimes upturned noses and jargon in fly shops, contribute to growing hurdles surrounding the sport. Still, Musli ć carved out a career as a guide over the last four years.

“When I first started guiding in Crested Butte, there were no other girls in the shop besides our manager,” she said. “On our free days, I was always going out fishing with men. That was the

only option. It fueled my dream to teach these skills to ladies.”

Born and raised in Nebraska, Musli ć discovered the sport during a class at the University of Nebraska-Lincoln. After the loss of her best friend her first year of college, she realized the river was one of the only places she could feel at peace.

“After the loss, I wasn’t motivated to do anything for almost six months,” Musli ć said.

“Slowly I started branching out again, and fishing allowed me to stop thinking about everything else, and focus all of my attention on the present. Fly fishing was definitely my form of therapy.”

After graduating, Musli ć moved to the Gunnison Valley and began guiding for Dragonfly Angers. She now teaches outdoor clinics with Westfeather and Uncharted Outdoorswomen, a women-led outdoor education organization.

“I love how the programs through Uncharted and Westfeather focus on teaching, not guiding,” Musli ć said. “My goal is to teach these students

Muslić reels in her weighted line. Fly fishing B2

Ema Muslić casts her line into the Gunnison River east of town. (Photos by Mariel Wiley)

SUMMER PLANT SALE IS ON!

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Fly fishing from B1

how to tie flies, and prepare them to fish on their own. It’s incredibly rewarding to get random messages from past students saying ‘I just went out and caught my own fish!’”

It’s incredibly rewarding to get random messages from past students saying ‘I just went out and caught my own fish!’

Ema Muslić

Fly fishing guide

Three years ago, Digregorio founded Westfeather while guiding for Eleven Experience, an adventure travel company. Now, he’s working full-time out of his apartment, guiding trips to Southeast Asia, Patagonia and Iceland. This season, Musli ć joined the Westfeather

team and began assisting classes for women anglers. The idea for the program began when Digregorio was given a rod at age 5, sparking his passion for the sport.

“I was so lucky to have been taken in by a group of passionate anglers at such a young age,” Digregorio said. “I’m trying to rip down those barriers that prevent access to the sport. If that means creating programs so women feel more comfortable walking into a fly shop, we’ll do that.”

Each Wednesday throughout this summer, Digregorio and Muslić plan to host ladies' classes, teaching everything from casting technique, entomology, tying flies and fish handling.

Two days before the clinic, Musli ć was back on the river casting her line into the stream. She removed a plastic tackle box from her hip pack and poked through the assortment of flies. Her fingers landed on a tiny zebra midge and she tied it to the line. As the sun drifted towards the cliffs and the light intensified, her line went taught and her heart began to race.

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

Muslić has been guiding for four years..

Muslić displays a tiny zebra midge fly, used to imitate the larvae of aquatic insects.

A steady mission through changing challenges

George Sibley Special to the Times

Everyone in the valleys of the Upper Gunnison River watersheds who love our rivers and streams probably has a favorite place for seeing the work of the Upper Gunnison River Water Conservancy District — although we might not know that is what we are seeing.

One of my favorite places for this is in the Gunnison Whitewater Park at the first manmade “rapid” for recreational boaters. The District worked with Gunnison County to put that project together, and acquired the 2003 “recreational in-stream” water right for the park.

It turned out to be an epic battle over the future of Colorado River water.

George Sibley

That first rapid, however, was created where it is in order to raise the level of the river to the headgate for the “75 Ditch.” The ditch, diverted in 1875 to irrigate Alonzo Hartman’s ranch, has the oldest water right in the entire Gunnison River Basin. This means the oldest water right in the valley is linked constructively with one of the newest. Between them lies the valley’s ever-changing history, including the 65-year history of the water district.

The mission of the District is “to be an active leader in all issues affecting the water resources of the Upper Gunnison River Basin.” The District has done this in creative, but often subtle ways like the example above, helping carry our past forward into our emerging future.

Consider the Taylor River: as beautiful a mountain stream as you will find anywhere. Iit looks and runs like a natural river today thanks to the District. In the 1930s, the U.S. Bureau of Reclamation built the Taylor Dam high on the river to store late-season water for down stream irrigators in the Uncompahgre River Valley. This effectively shut off the river in the spring. It turned it into an irrigation canal the rest of the year, “killing” the natural river cycle and a world-class fishery. Reclamation came back in the 1950s to build the Blue

Mesa, Morrow Point and Crystal dams west of Gunnison as part of the massive regional Colorado River Storage Project — reservoirs that drowned the towns of Iola and Sapinero, and killed another, and even more beloved, fishery. Many Upper Gunnison people were not happy with Reclamation in those decades.

To make amends, Reclamation proposed an Upper Gunnison River Project, a set of small reservoirs and canals for local use. The District was created in 1959 to work with Reclamation in bringing that project into being.

Reclamation also promised to “subordinate,” for later development above the dams, the rights to 60,000 acre-feet of the water it would have storage rights for in the Aspinall Unit reservoirs. It also promised to purchase or replace the fisheries it was inundating.

But by the time the three dams we know as the Wayne N. Aspinall Unit were completed in the 1970s, the nation had ceased to invest heavily in western water development, and the Upper Gunnison River Project was abandoned.

Rather than folding, the District began to take on other challenges and opportunities. One of these was resurrecting the Taylor River. Once Blue Mesa Dam was completed, District Attorney Richard Bratton worked with Reclamation, arguing that it would make sense to store the Uncompahgre Valley irrigators’ water from Taylor Reservoir in Blue Mesa, at least a day’s flow closer to the Gunnison Tunnel.

That meant the Uncompahgre water could be moved from Taylor on the seasonal schedule of a natural river. Following the 1975 agreement, the District has convened a “Taylor Local Users Group” of irrigators, rafters, fishermen and Taylor property owners every spring to advise Reclamation on how best to operate reservoir releases to meet local needs.

The District didn’t stop there. The Continental Divide mountains above Taylor Park produced more water than the 106,000 acre-feet captured for the Uncompahgre Valley water users — water coveted by Front Range cities. Soon after the agreement, with the Taylor Reservoir technically “empty” after the Uncompahgre water was moved to Blue Mesa, the District filed on Taylor Park water for a second fill of the reservoir. The water would be used for the fishery, wildlife and other environmental needs as well as supplemental irrigation water.

This unusual request was adjudicated in 1990, and not a moment too soon. In 1986, the City of Aurora filed a claim for a transmountain diversion, the Collegiate Range-Aurora Project. It would pump water up to Taylor Reservoir from a new reservoir near the junction of the East and Taylor rivers

(flooding Almont), and through a tunnel to the Front Range.

Then in 1988 the Natural Energy Resources Company (NECO), a conspiracy of retired Reclamation engineers, filed a much more elaborate plan for a large reservoir in Union Park. It would be filled by pumping water up from Taylor Reservoir, with unappropriated water gathered from all over the Upper Gunnison tributaries. It would also be moved through a tunnel to the Front Range.

In 1988, NECO sold this seemingly fantastic idea to Arapahoe County, pending the granting of all the water rights that NECO had filed on. Aurora abandoned its even more fantastic plan to join Arapahoe.

The Division Four water court became the battleground, and the District went into “protect and defend” mode. Attorneys Bratton and his partner, John McClow, rallied an army of Western Slope water organizations and friends of the court, including Reclamation, against the phalanx of Arapahoe attorneys and engineers. It turned out to be an epic battle over the future of Colorado River water.

The NECO plan finally died an expensive death in 2001, after multiple appeals to the Colorado Supreme Court from Arapahoe County. It was expensive for the winners too. The District asked the taxpayers to double their mill levy — a request readily granted. No major Front Range transmountain diversion efforts have materialized since.

Before that was completed, District water users were threatened by two complex challenges from downstream. One was a “federal reserved water right” for the Black Canyon of the Gunnison National Park. The other was a shared responsibility for the fate of four endangered Colorado River fish species found in the Lower Gunnison Basin.

According to U.S. Supreme Court decisions, when the gov-

ernment reserved public lands for any specific purpose, like a National Park, it implicitly also reserved enough water to carry out that purpose. The National Park Service was charged with “conserving unimpaired” for “this and future generations” some “natural and cultural resource” — in the case of the Black Canyon, a magnificent geological feature and the wild river that was gouging it out.

Then in the 1960s and 70s, another Department of the Interior branch of the federal government built three major dams upstream from the Black Canyon that seriously “impaired” the natural conditions of the canyon and its river.

In the 1970s, the Park Service had applied for, and been given, an unquantified water right for the former National Monument with a 1933 appropriation date. Finally, in 2001, the other shoe dropped. The Park Service applied for a quantification that required a spring flood to purge the canyon of its greenery (dominated by poison ivy) and restore its cutting function. Spring was also the time for water storage.

All hell broke loose, both upstream in the District where many users would be junior to the 1933 decree, and downstream where the absence of spring floods had been considered a blessing. Nearly 400 statements were filed in opposition to the plan by the time the dust settled.

After six years of litigation and some political wrangling, a mediator was hired. In December 2008, a decree went to water court that gave the Park Service a spring flood based on the Upper Gunnison runoff. It would also prevent downstream flooding and not interfere with existing junior water rights in the Upper Gunnison Basin.

The endangered fish plan was not so difficult to resolve, and has been settled with an “Aspinall Unit Reoperation” of increased spring flows overlap-

ping somewhat with the Black Canyon water right releases. Blue Mesa Reservoir storage was somewhat affected, but with little or no harm to water users.

The District has also shown creative leadership in water development. After the state engineer declared the Gunnison River over-appropriated (unable to fill all water rights) in the exceptionally dry water year 2002, state law required anyone wanting a new surface or groundwater right from the river and its tributaries to file an “augmentation plan.” This demonstrated the capability, in the event of a downstream call, of replacing the water they were withdrawing from the river system from some other source. In response, the District leased 500 acre-feet in Blue Mesa to provide augmentation water for certain areas in the valley. The District created a “new source” by raising the outlet works on Meridian Lake above Crested Butte several feet to support new builds in the Crested Butte area.

At this point, the era of water development of the Colorado River and its Gunnison tributary is probably mostly completed. The District has joined the rest of the state in planning processes for the unknowns of changing climate, diminishing waters and population growth. This short overview shows only the diverse breadth and often subtle quality of the work of the organization that has creatively and consistently worked for 65 years to develop, protect and defend the water resources of the Upper Gunnison River and its mountain tributaries.

(George Sibley is a Gunnison writer, thinker and elder of the headwaters.)

The Upper Gunnison River Water Conservancy District held an anniversary celebration with food and music on June 24. (Photo by Bella Biondini)

Yard of the Week

The Top O’ the World Garden Club awarded Colleen and Larry Cope of 317 North Pine Street with Yard of the Week. The couple lives in an 1833 historical home reconstructed by Keith Wallin Construction. Mountain Rain contributed an irrigation system and prepared the yard for further gardening. The Copes opted to plant hardy species — such as snow in summer, dwarf mugo pines and lamium — that could survive frigid Gunnison winters.

Business Yard of the Month

The Top ‘O the World Garden Club awarded Dr. John Schmidt’s Dental Office with Business Yard of the Month. The office is located inside a converted historical home at 317 West Virginia Avenue. At the beginning of each growing season, Spring Creek Landscapes lays the groundwork. Then Schmidt takes over, caring for the prominent, yellow potentilla flowers out front.

(Courtesy Nancy Dean/Top O’ the World Garden Club)

(Courtesy Nancy Dean/Top ‘O the World Garden Club)

Fabric sale

The League of Women Voters will hold a fabric and crafting sale on July 6 from 8 a.m.-12 p.m. at 912 N. Boulevard in Gunnison. No early birds. Call 719.221.6611 for more information.

GVAWL dedication

The Gunnison Valley Animal Welfare League will honor the memory of longtime volunteer Sue Knowles with a “cat-io” dedication celebration on June 29 at 11 a.m. in the shelter at 98 Basin Park Dr. Light snacks will be served. For more information or to arrange to give a brief speech, call 970.641.1173.

Mountain Roots board

Mountain Roots is seeking dedicated board members. Skills needed include event planning, finance/business, advocacy/ organizing, leadership, strategic planning and more. Experience in nonprofit governance or business management, fundraising, community organizing and a commitment to our mission are preferred. All are encouraged to apply. Please send a resume and brief statement of interest to director@mountainrootsfoodproject.org.

Food, film and farm tours

Join Mountain Roots for a screening of the film “Common Ground” at the Gunnison Library on June 29. This free, family event begins with lunch from local producers at 12 p.m., the film screening at 1 p.m. and visits to Parker Pastures and the Living Classroom at 3 p.m. Find more information at mountainrootsfoodproject.org.

Cole Buerger fundraiser

The Gunnison County Democratic Party will hold a meet-and-greet fundraiser for Colorado State Senate candidate Cole Buerger at the home of Mike and Debra Callihan on June 29 at 4:30 p.m. Visit secure.actblue. com/donate/gunnison-river-fundraiser to RSVP.

New hours

The Gunnison Arts Center is now open to the public on Thursdays and Fridays from 11 a.m.-6 p.m and Saturdays from 10 a.m.-5 p.m.

Vacation bible school

The Community Church of Gunnison presents its annual Vacation Bible School on June 30 from 4-6 p.m. and July 1-3 from 8 a.m.-12 p.m. Families can register at ccgunnisonvbs.myanswers. com/jungle-journey.

HCCA hikes

High Country Conservation Advocates (HCCA) invites you to join its HCCA Hikes every Wednesday. View the full season schedule, reserve your spot and find more information at hccacb.org.

Fly fishing lessons

Harmels on the Taylor will offer free fly fishing lessons on select dates throughout the summer. Visit harmels.com or call 708.710.4427 for more information.

Contemporary dance workshop

Crested Butte School of Dance presents a contemporary fusion dance workshop for intermediate to advanced dancers on June 29 from 10 a.m-12 p.m. at the Pump Room, 306 Maroon Ave. in Crested Butte. The cost is $46. Visit dancecrestedbutte. org or contact programs@ dancecrestedbutte.org for more information and to register.

Art heist fundraiser

P.E.O. will hold an interactive art heist mystery theater fundraiser on June 29 from 12:30-4 p.m. at Queen of All Saints Parish Hall, 401 Sopris Ave. in Crested Butte. Part mystery and part scavenger hunt, the event will help fund women’s pursuits of higher education. The cost is $20 for adults and $10 for children. For more information, email mrijks@ mac.com.

CB Museum events

The Crested Butte History Museum will hold its “Tony's Speakeasy” fundraiser on July 2 with poker, whisky and rum

Sundays@6

Blue Recluse will perform at Legion Park at 6 p.m. on June 23. Bring your lawn chairs and enjoy food trucks, vendors and more.

tastings, live music and more. A Second Street-themed walking tour will take place on July 27 at 10 a.m. and history walking tours happen every Tuesday and Thursday at 10 a.m. Learn more at crestedbuttemuseum.com.

Polka dances

The Almont Pavilion at Three Rivers Resort will host free dancing and live music by the Pete Dunda Band. On July 3, enjoy free dance lessons starting at 6 p.m., then dance to the band from 7-10 p.m. On July 4, the Independence Day Dance will happen from 2-5 p.m.

Tin Cup Art Fair

The 8th Annual Tin Cup Art Fair will take place on July 5 in Tin Cup, northeast of Gunnison. The fair will be held in the historic town hall from 10 a.m.-4 p.m. Local artists from Taylor Park and Pitkin will be featured. Admission is free. For more information, call Janet at 970.641.4082.

Park service volunteer

The National Park Service is seeking a volunteer visitor services assistant for the Curecanti National Recreation Area. The visitor services assistant will help with ranger-led programming and interacting with park visitors. For more information, contact Lauren Huckle at 970.641.2337, ext. 206 or apply at "Volunteer Opportunity Detail" on volunteer.gov.

Library wine tastings

Crested Butte Friends of the Library will host “Circling Europe” wine tastings on July 11, Aug. 22 and Sept. 5. The cost is $50 per person and includes light snacks. Tickets can be purchased at the Old Rock Library front desk or email cblibraryfriends@gmail.com for online instructions. All proceeds support Old Rock Library.

Pottery pop-up

Pop in to the GAC on June 29 between 10 a.m.-12 p.m. and pick a pre-made ceramic piece to paint and decorate. The GAC will take care of the rest and your piece will be available for pickup within two weeks. Prices vary depending on the piece. Find more information at gunnisonartscenter.org.

Devo film screening

Crested Butte Devo Junior Bike Week will host a mountain bike short films screening on June 28 at 7 p.m. at the Crested Butte Center for the Arts. Tickets are $15 in advance or $20 at the door. Find tickets and more information at crestedbuttearts.org.

Heart by Heart

The Alpenglow concert series presents Heart by Heart on July 1 at 5:30 p.m. at the CBCA. Heart By Heart plays all the Heart hits such as “Barracuda,”

“Straight On,” “Crazy On You” and “Magic Man,” plus deep album cuts that Heart fans will love. This is a free event.

Mama Lingua

Mama Lingua returns to the CBCA on July 2 at 5:30 p.m. The band weaves original tunes with traditional folk and world music to create a warm, authentic sound. This is a free event in the CBCA courtyard.

Laborer needed for heavy civil construction work.

Please call 970-2092729 for more info.

Work is in Gunnison

ATTENTION

KEBLER PASS TRAILER OWNERS

The Gunnison County Public Works Department is conducting summer road maintenance activities on the Kebler Pass Road and all pull-out and parking areas. No overnight parking will be allowed and all vehicles, including trailers, etc. must be removed from these areas no later than Sunday, June 30, 2024. Trailers not removed will be removed by Gunnison County and the owners will be required to pay towing and storage charges.

If you have questions, call Gunnison County Public Works at 970-641-0044.

Gunnison ‘hams’ smash personal record

Local radio operators add to impressive history

Alex McCrindle Times Sports Editor

As if working in a 19th century telegram office, Gunnison amateur radio operator Brad Wick sat at the desk in his trailer. He was perched on a remote hilltop 15 miles south of Gunnison in the early hours of the morning.

It was 4 a.m., and the sun would soon crest over nearby Cochetopa Pass. Wick rattled off Morse code with two paddles in his right hand. The white light of the monitor and a small lamp hanging overhead illuminated his face. He had been working at his desk in shifts with his partner Randy Martin for 16 hours.

The pair defended their firstplace title at the 2023 Amateur Radio Relay League “Field Day” last weekend on June 22 and 23. The nationwide competition challenged radio operators, or “hams,” from across the United States to tally the most connections made with other operators in 24 hours, almost entirely in Morse code.

This year, the Gunnison team had even more on the line. Wick and Martin were attempting to break their 2023 first-place record of 1,675 connections without the firepower of one of their longest serving members, Mike Wells.

To best last year’s record with just two men, Wick and Martin experimented with a difficult technique, called “single operator, two radio.” Instead of operating one radio each, both men

would operate two radios at once. This meant the pair would be transmitting their frequency, translating Morse code and documenting data between two radios at the same time.

“We were listening to two frequencies at once in Morse code, one in one ear, and one in the other,” Wick said. “Our Morse code speed needed to be sending and receiving 32 words a minute, which is smoking fast — but it worked exceptionally well.”

The Gunnison team worked in shifts, operating for 24-hours straight. When the contest ended at noon on Sunday, Wick and Martin took a deep breath, wiped their weathered eyes and began the five-hours-long process of deconstructing their assembly of radio towers and antennas.

Despite losing a teammate, the pair still miraculously beat last year's record. This year, they logged 1,980 connections and made contact with radios from as far away as New Zealand and France.

The competition exhibited how Gunnison could turn to

amateur radio enthusiasts in the event of a community-wide emergency, like natural disaster. Scott Morrill, Gunnison County’s Emergency Manager, said the team offers a great resource to the city. He referenced the 2013 Colorado floods that wiped out infrastructure in the northern counties, and emergency personnel relied on ham radios to call in assistance.

“It is great to have this resource available in our valley, with really impressive capabilities,” Morrill said. “We know we can call on them.”

After beating their personal record, Wick said the club is even more motivated to keep pushing the line.

“This is the best field day performance we can remember,” Wick said. “Now all our sights are on next year. We’ll try to go even bigger.”

Official field day results will be announced in December 2024.

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

Randy Martin exits the trailer during the 2023 Field Day.

Brad Wick operates a ham radio at his desk in the 2023. (Photos by Jacob Spetzler)

High flyers

A trapeze workshop hosted by the Gunnison Valley Theatre Festival on June 22 tempted participants to quit their day jobs and run away to join the circus. Longtime trapeze performer Steven Cole Hughes demonstrated a series of maneuvers for the group to try, including the “Jesus hang” and the “mermaid.” After brushing up on the basics, teams of three improvised dances to upbeat instrumental songs. Hughes will offer a for-credit, semester-long trapeze course at Western Colorado University next spring.

(Photos by Mariel Wiley)

COUNTRY TIMES • THURSDAY, JUNE 27, 2024

Stingrays battle in Junction

Meeuwsen, Jones and Corey take top times

Alex McCrindle Times Sports Editor

The Gunnison Stingrays swim team started the summer season off with a bang, competing against 22 teams at the Grand Junction Invitational on June 20-23. Russell Meeuwsen was the standout athlete for the Stingrays, earning 33 points and taking second place in the boys 11- to 12-year-old 50-meter freestyle. The Stingrays finished 19th with 98 points.

“Our opening meets this summer have been a roaring success,” said Head Coach Tami Maciejko. “The kids swam well at the massive Grand Junction meet against 400 competitors, and are gearing up for the club championship in August.”

The Stingrays battled against year-round swimmers at Grand Junction last weekend, making the competition tougher than ever. Nine-year-old Stephen Jones was the youngest Gunnison competitor, and also one of the highest scoring. He racked in 16 points total, finishing seventh in

Swimming B10

U12 softball victorious over Buena Vista

Gunnison wins 16-15 in a nailbiting

game

Evan Bjornstad Times Sports Intern

Gunnison’s U12 softball girls defeated Buena Vista at home 16-15 in a tense four-inning brawl on June 22.

The game began with excitement as Gunnison struck out the lead-off Buena Vista batter. But the energy quickly went sour when after walking two batters, the hosts gave up an RBI single that brought both Buena Vista runners home and moved the score to 2-0.

The first inning continued thanks to walks and errors, and Buena Vista enforced the fiverun rule, which automatically ends the inning when either team scores five runs.

Gunnison opened the bottom of the first with three straight walks, and a runner stealing

home. With two runners in scoring position and the pressure on, the hosts delivered and got two runners home with the help of multiple errors from the Buena Vista team.

To seal the tone of the inning, two more runners stole all the bases. Once again, the inning ended with the five-run rule and Gunnison tied the game 5-5.

The top of the second started with two walks from Buena Vista that resulted in the runners stealing home, raising the score to 7-5 with no outs. With more walks and an RBI single, Buena Vista again enforced the five-run rule, taking a 10-5 lead. Gunnison followed in their footsteps to score another five runs with the help of seven walks. The game looked close as ever at 10-10 going into the third inning. Gunnison needed to make a strong defensive effort if they had a chance at sealing the victory.

Gunnison shut Buena Vista's offense down in the third, hold-

ing them to only one run and limiting the lead to 11-10.

With urgency in the bottom of the third, Gunnison came to the plate swinging. The girls scored three times in the inning to put the score at 13-11, and take the lead for the first time all game.

In the fourth and final inning, Buena Vista caught fire at the plate and scored a daunting four final runs, moving the score to 15-13. In Gunnison's final at-bats, the offense executed flawlessly, stealing and scoring on a wild pitch. With runners in scoring position, Gunnison walked off the game with a ground ball hit to the shortstop, scoring one run and finishing the game as a heartstopping home victory, 16-15.

(Evan Bjornstad can be reached at 970.641.1414)

GUNNISON

Leslie Diaz Sabas prepares to lay down a bunt. (Photo by Evan Bjornstad)

The team of Guppies emerge from the depths of the pool at the Gunnison Aquatic Center. (Photo by Mariel Wiley)

Gymnasts score big in Silverthorne

The Gunnison gymnastics team brought electricity to Silverthorne June 21 and 22. Lili Davis led the girls with a first-place, 7.4 score in bars. Jamie Moran took first in vault with a score of 7.7. Eliza Wickenhauser, Autumn Sample and Eliana Mullins all stood on the second-place podium: Wickenhauser with a 7.3 on beam, Sample with a 7.1 on beam and Mullins with 7.0 on floor. Emma Bogart placed third on vault with an 8.3, and was joined on the third-place podium by Cece Marquis, who scored 7.8 on beam. The girls will continue their fast and furious streak in Centennial on June 28 and 29.

Pike perfection

Celebrating our Senior Pets’ Independence

Keep them bagging trails and wagging tails, with IN-HOME vet care Gunnison, Almont,

Members of the Gunnison youth dive club practiced their skills at the Gunnison Aquatics Center on Monday, June 24. The kids learned five types of dives: forward, backward, reverse, inward and twisting. The first session was held from June 24- 27, and the second will begin on July 15.

(Courtesy Sam Denham)

(Photo by Evan Bjornstad)

Swimming from B8

leave

name on

WHEN: July 4th from 7-10:30am

ADMISSION: $15 Adults, $10 kids 12 & under WHERE: Station 1, 306 3rd Street

the Boys 10-and-under 50-meter breaststroke.

Samantha Jones looked fast as ever heading into her senior season at GHS. The 2024 fifth-place state frog kicker placed sixth in the 200-meter breaststroke, and scored 13 points for the Stingrays. Max Milski followed in her footsteps, placing eighth in the girls 10-and-under 200-meter breaststroke to earn 13 total points.

Rising eighth grader Gracen Corey has been pushing the high school girls in the 50-meter freestyle. Her time of 31.36 seconds

notched her a 15th place finish this weekend, and provided 2 points to the team score.

“Sam and Gracen have been on fire this season,” Maciejko said. “They’ve been working really hard, and are standouts at this stage of the season.”

While the older swimmers were shaving seconds off in Grand Junction, the next generation of Stingrays was practicing their strokes at the Gunnison Rec Center. It is one of the largest groups of 4- to-5-yearold swimmers Maciejko has coached in years.

“I have a really cute group of ‘Guppies’ that are absolutely rocking it,” Maciejko said. “They

are putting in almost 500 yards every practice.”

The 2024 summer season will include five more meets across the Western Slope before the Seasonal Club Championship in the first week of August. The championship will be held in Gunnison for the first time in 12 years, and host 300 swimmers from across the state.

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

Chipping for charity

Golf teams from across the valley flooded to Dos Rios Golf Club on Friday, June 21 for the Gunnison Valley Health Foundation scramble tournament. Golfers were treated to 18 holes of tournament play and a community potluck after the scores had been tallied. The proceeds from the tournament were donated to the GVH Foundation.

(Photo by Alex McCrindle)

The Stingrays celebrate an exciting home meet on June 14. (Courtesy Margaret Cranor)

A celebration of the sun

GAC gallery shares power of the summer solstice

Bella Biondini Times Editor

Summer has finally arrived in the Gunnison Valley and the Gunnison Arts Center (GAC) is sharing its glowing warmth at a new gallery titled “Radiance.”

The summer solstice, which marks the official start of summer and the longest day of the year, inspired the creation of the group show. It features artists Amanda Sage, Anders Johnson, Don Seastrum, Joe Bob Merritt and Karolina Szumilas and will be on display in the Tredway Gallery through July 28.

Trying to capture the intensity and influence of the sun, Gallery Manager Jeff Irwin toured Merritt and Sage’s studios and selected pieces with warm oranges and yellows, as well as greens and blues that represent blooming and new life. With those artworks at the gallery’s center, Erwin filled in the spaces with complimentary

images he believed represented the fleeting aspects of the season.

At the bottom of the stairway that leads to the gallery hangs the “The Great Wave of Trainsformation,” a painting cocreated by Sage and Merritt. The pair started this piece onstage during a talk by mycologist Paul Stamets in 2020 at a festival in Costa Rica. Over the course of two years, they developed the painting using the “Mischteknique” — a method that creates of depth when thin glazes of color are placed over old layers of dark and light, Merritt said.

Upstairs, Sage uses painting as a tool for transformation and rebirth with patterns and colors that almost vibrate in front of the eye. In her painting “Spring Seed” violets and reds move the eye across the canvas, while luminous waves depict the promise of life even though the seed has yet to sprout.

A piece from Johnson, titled “Warmth,” illustrates the rising prevalence of wildfires that have begun to characterize summer in the West. It is a painting of Hartman Rocks, with the glow of roaring flames behind the rocks. Johnson combined a collection of different photos and

digitally stitched them together to create the image he would eventually recreate with paint.

He mixed the color orange from the sky into every color he used, making the scene appear hot. While the wildfire and plumes of smoke depicted in the painting is not based on a real event, it was a way for Johnson to reflect on living with the modern threat of fire.

“I wanted the feeling of some familiarity, but also of a place that doesn’t really exist, all at once,” he said.

Since the GAC’s Main Gallery is under renovation, group exhibits have been a way to work around the limited space. In addition to honoring the changing seasons, this is something Erwin said he wants to continue. This fall, the GAC will celebrate the reopening of the gallery with a group show once construction is complete.

“Group exhibits help you engage with more people and conceptually you’re able to hit a little deeper when you have multiple voices in the room,” Erwin said.

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

THIS WEEK AT THE MUSEUM

“Doctors prescribe it….”

Submitted by Larry McDonald

With the “World’s Largest Private Collection of Coors Breweriana” now on full display at the Pioneer Museum, we thought we’d give you a little background this week on the exhibit and its relationship to our “neck of the woods”.

The story begins with a young man growing up in Denver with a challenging childhood, and seeing few options following his graduation from John F. Kennedy High School in 1967, he applied and was accepted to attend Western State College. He arrived in Gunnison with a fondness for alcohol, with Coors beer being his drink of choice. He graduated from Western with a Business Administration degree in 1971 and began a career in local real estate before retiring in 1995 at the age of 45.

bottled beer.” The following year we find this mention in the Gunnison Review-Press, “D. S. Hyman, sole agent for Gunnison and surrounding counties of the celebrated Coors Beer”, and the first ad appears in the 1891 Gunnison Tribune stating the following, “The Golden beer is conceded by all to be the best beer in the market. It is equal in every respect to any imported beer. Doctors prescribe it on account of its purity and abundance of natural carbonic acid. Secured first prize at the last three state fairs. None but the best barley and Bohemian and Bavarian hops used in its manufacture. PURE AND WHOLESOME.”

Gary Fabiano, a selfproclaimed alcoholic, quit drinking altogether in 1990, and at that time began collecting Breweriana (articles containing a brewery or brand name) from his favorite Colorado brewery. Gary’s amazing collection is of “museum quality” items, all pre-1995, the 125th anniversary of Coors, and was acquired through auctions, eBay, shows and purchases from other top collectors.

Coors Brewing Company history here in Colorado dates back to the early 1870’s and following a brief search of digitized historic newspapers, we find our earliest local mention in the December 1, 1883, edition of the Pitkin Independent, “Chrystal Bros. carry the choicest and best stock of groceries, wines, liquors and cigars. Sole agents for Coor’s Export

College students have been known to imbibe in a few adult beverages, and it was a V-Bar-7-Café ad in Westerns Top of the World newspaper dated March 13, 1951, that stated, “If there weren’t a rule against beer advertisements in the TOP we would mention that we now have Coors on tap, but there is, so we will just remind you that we are serving delicious sandwiches and full meals.” And in a 1953 edition, during a Student Council discussion on whether to allow smoking during movies in the college ballroom, Jim Parkinson stated that Coors Company had sent 100 ash trays, free of charge to the Student Association and should be used. Virginia Cornella moved to allow smoking, the motion was seconded and carried. Museum guests that have visited the exhibit are certainly amazed by the fabulous Fabiano Coors Breweriana collection, and we invite those who haven’t yet experienced it to make plans to do so this summer. If so, you may just find yourself a bit thirsty for an ice-cold Coors!

MUSEUM OPEN DAILY 9:00 A.M.-5:00 P.M. FROM MAY 15 THROUGH SEPTEMBER 30.

Admission $15 ages 13+, $5 for ages 6-12, Free for 5 and under. Follow us on Facebook for current information and amazing local history!

“Warmth” by Anders Johnson (Photos by Bella Biondini)

“The Great Wave of Trainsformation” by Amanda Sage and Joe Bob Merritt.

Music on the move

A gaggle of bikers pedaled through the streets of Gunnison in pursuit of Sunny Downpour’s live music during the first music cruise of the summer on June 18. The band kicked off its set at Jorgensen Park before gliding across town to CharMar Park on a flatbed trailer. After reaching CharMar, the group traded their bikes for blankets to relax with family and friends. The Community Foundation of the Gunnison Valley sponsored the cruise.

(Photos by Bella Biondini and Mariel Wiley)

A golden year in brass

Colorado Brass Band celebrates 50th anniversary

Maggie Reid Times Intern

Western Colorado University’s Kincaid Concert Hall filled with excitement when the Colorado Brass Band performed its 50th annual concert on June 22. Avid concertgoers and long-time brass band supporters filled the hall to celebrate the milestone.

John Kincaid, who taught music at Western for more than 30 years, founded the Colorado Brass Band in 1974. Kincaid discovered his love for brass while serving as a stretcher bearer, someone who carried the sick and injured to hospitals, during WWII. While sightseeing in New

Zealand, he heard the practice notes of a brass and percussion band and became fascinated, said Western’s Director of Brass and Bands Brett Keating.

Kincaid quickly became friends with the band members and spent the remainder of his time in New Zealand with them. When the trip was over, he returned stateside and served the remainder of the war.

Afterward, he began teaching music at Western and eventually founded the Colorado Brass Band. He was an active member for more than 40 years before Keating took over the band in 2022.

This year, Keating led the band with the help of guest conductors Tom Davoren of Benedictine College and Michael Mapp of New Mexico State University. The concert featured Western’s Ben Justis as a xylophone soloist with his 2023 U.S. Masters Brass Band Competition winning piece,

“Toccata and Fugue in D Minor'' — an experience Justis called “exhilarating.”

Members of the band range from 17 to 84 years old. Some, such as euphonium player Buddy Laws, have been in the band for more than four decades. Band members believe that they can all learn something from each other, regardless of their age, Keating said.

“It’s a cool merging of generations and it’s fun to see them share that with each other,” Keating said. “I feel honored to be a small part of this rich tradition. Seeing the growth in the band over the last few years, I think Mr. John Kincaid would be proud. We are all excited to see where this band is in another 50 years.”

(Maggie Reid can be contacted at 970.641.1414 or intern@ gunnisontimes.com.)

SUNDAY, JULY 14TH | 9AM

Conductor Brett Keating uses a baton to keep time during the Colorado Brass Band concert on June 22. (Photos by Maggie Reid)

Sunday sounds of the Grateful Dead

Music-lovers packed Legion Park for a free Easy Jim concert during Sundays@6 on June 23. Kids played impromptu games of “duck, duck, goose” and got animal-themed face paint while their families lounged in lawn chairs and on picnic blankets.

Faith Directory

Bethany Church

909 N Wisconsin St.

(behind Powerstop) • 970-641-2144

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

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

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

Check out our website for updates! Or download our app on the App Store by searching, Gunnison Bethany.

B'nai Butte 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

Go to website for location and more details.

New Song Christian Fellowship

77 Ute Lane • 970-641-5034

A Christ Centered Gospel Sharing Community where we want to be part of a community who encourage and support one another in our spiritual journey.

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

Community Church of Gunnison

107 N. Iowa • 970-641- 0925

Pastor Larry Nelson

Sunday Morning Worship 9:30 a.m.

Weekend Services 9:30 a.m. Nursery & Age-Graded Ministry

Weekly Student Ministry

Weekly Adult LifeGroups

Office Hours: Mon-Thurs, 9-4

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

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

Transforming Lives • Building Community

First Baptist Church

120 N. Pine St. • 970-641-2240

Pastor Jonathan Jones

SUNDAY

Sunday School at 10 a.m.

Sunday Morning Worship at 11 a.m.

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

WEDNESDAY (during school year)

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

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

Gunnison

Congregational Church

United Church of Christ

317 N. Main St. • 970-641-3203

Open and Affirming

Whole Earth · Just Peace

Sunday, 10 a.m.

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

Trinity Baptist Church

523 N. Pine St. • 970-641-1813

Senior Pastor - Joe Ricks Sunday Service 9:30 a.m.

Adult Bible Study 8 a.m. trinitybaptistsgunnison.com

Mt. Calvary Lutheran Church

711 N. Main • 970-641-1860

Senior Pastor Robert Carabotta

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

Adult Sunday School – Sunday 9 a.m.

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

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 6:30 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, Sat. at 4 p.m.

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.

(Photos by Mariel Wiley and Maggie Reid)

Sunrise and sweat

Early risers check off fitness goals first thing in the morning

Maggie Reid Times Intern

As the sun rises above the mountain’s peak, alarms ring and the people of Gunnison prepare for the day. Meanwhile, at the Gunnison Rec Center, a group gathered for Katy Smith’s 6 a.m. “Sunrise and Sweat” class, ready to start the day with an intensive workout.

Smith moved to the Gunnison Valley in 2022, right when the Rec Center launched its adult fitness program. After serving in the U.S. Army, and with a background in yoga instruction, she was the perfect fit for the job. The classes she designed, held four times a week, are a combination of strength training and cardio. They are free with a Rec Center membership, and she provides weights, mats and resistance bands. It’s a hassle-free way for residents to stay in shape — if they’re willing to wake up early.

“Katy has brought consistent, challenging and fun fitness opportunities to our community,” said Recreation Advisor Ginny Baylor. “She is passionate about creating accessible wellness for everyone … A 6 a.m. workout class that regularly has over 20 adults speaks for itself. Folks want to be a part of what Katy puts together. They have fun, they move their bodies and they keep coming back for more.”

Through the program, Smith has created a tight-knit community. The early birds bring a level of dedication and excitement that creates an electric atmosphere, even when it gets sweaty. The gym fills with smiling faces and conversation throughout the class, perfect for individuals who love a group fitness environment.

“One of the things people love about my classes is the consistency,” Smith said. “Everyone knows where their mat is, what to expect in the classroom and the layout of the class. I try not to change it up too much.”

Alongside her adult fitness courses, Smith also offers personal training, which she said she enjoys just as much. While some people love group fitness and working out with friends, others prefer a more toneddown, one-on-one approach to their workout routines. Smith is working to create a variety of new classes, such as yoga or pilates, that appeal to different workout personalities.

Even with the new possibilities, she still adores “Sunrise and Sweat” because it prioritizes fitness at the beginning of the day.

“I love reminding people that this is self care, it’s not punishment,” Smith said. “It’s truly: show up, take care of yourself first thing in the morning and then walk through the rest of your day knowing you just crushed it.”

(Maggie Reid can be contacted at 970.641.1414 or intern@ gunnisontimes.com.)

Go Slow or Get Low

Understanding & Preventing Mountain Illness

Thursday, June 27, 2024

6:30 to 9:00 p.m.

Majestic Theater 507 Red Lady Ave #110

Crested Butte, CO 81224

Featuring an education session, opportunity to participate in a quality improvement project with DNP student, Mary Sawyer & FREE screening of an award winning documentary film.

Attendees will have the chance to win a badfish inflatable paddle board and jewlery from a local artist!

Sponsored by

The class gets their blood pumping by running laps. (Photo by Maggie Reid)