Gunnison Country Times, February 13, 2025

NEWS: Spann Ranches receives national recognition, A13

COMMUNITY: A friendship that crossed oceans, B1

SPORTS: Five GHS wrestlers win regionals, B4

A4

B4

MetRec commits $1.2 million for outdoor field

Funding enables school district to pay for turf at CBCS

Bella Biondini Times Editor

In what board president Cassia Cadenhead called the “largest capital decision in MetRec’s lifetime,” the board has pledged $1.2 million to help the school district cover the cost of a new synthetic turf athletic field in Crested Butte.

The project’s supporters, which include coaches, students and parents, hope the new field will increase outdoor

playing time for all of the valley’s athletes, whether they are part of a Gunnison Watershed School District (GWSD) sports team, an adult rec league or a summer youth program. Relieving demand in the North Valley will also free up space in Gunnison, as Crested Butte athletes often commute south when their fields are covered in snow.

The Gunnison County Metropolitan Recreation District (MetRec) board, which discussed the request during a regular meeting on Jan. 29, unanimously agreed to cover one-third of the cost of the new field and playground at the Crested Butte Community School. The commitment came MetRec A6

Report reveals university’s local economic impact

Researchers estimate Western brings over $150 million to county

Abby Harrison Times Staff Writer

It may come as no surprise that Western Colorado University students and staff populate the hills of the East River Valley to catalogue plant species, move downed timber off trails in the Gunnison National Forest, bus tables at local restaurants or work with kids in the school district. Now, the impact of this work (and more) on the valley has been captured and converted into real dollars from research released last fall.

Western, located in the heart of Gunnison, is a public university

City to evaluate inner workings of irrigation ditches

Goal is to ensure longevity of aging system

Bella Biondini Times Editor

Before the water is turned on this year, the City of Gunnison will begin an in-depth investigation of its municipal irrigation ditch system. The intent is to keep the ditches, well-loved by Gunnison homeowners who use the free water to keep their lawns and gardens green, up and running.

To do so, the Public Works Department needs a greater understanding of how much money and manpower is

required to maintain the deteriorating ditch system. With the help of Western Slope engineering firm SGM, the city will take a closer look at the condition of Gunnison’s ditches, and assess and prioritize big-budget repairs. A draft ditch master plan will be released in October, pending community and city council discussion once the data is collected. The document — a clear vision on how the city will manage the ditch system well in the future — will be finalized by the end of the year. According to a 2024 report from the former Public Works Director, more than 200 culverts are in a state of disrepair. City crews also discovered roughly 20 deteriorating pipes that cross Western A8 Ditches A7

TIES AND TIARAS: Gunnison Valley dads and daughters hopped to the beat during the seventh annual Daddy Daughter Dance on Feb. 8. For more, see A11. (Photo by Mariel Wiley)

“We

— Sanal Taskinli

Foundation Committee and served on the Foundation board of directors for five years.

Roberts resigns from school board

The Gunnison Watershed School District received a letter of resignation from school board secretary Mandy Roberts on Feb. 10. Roberts has served on the board since 2021.

This initiated a 60-day window in which the board must accept and review applications and choose a replacement. The seat will still expire in November when the district holds a regular school board election.

The board will hold a special session on Thursday, Feb. 13 on Zoom at 12:30 p.m. to formally declare a vacancy. More information on how candidates can apply will follow after the meeting.

“Due to personal conflicts in the needs of my family I feel like I must make this choice so that I can be fully present with them at this critical time … I hope that a suitable replacement would be found in someone that might share my values and concerns and offer the balance to the board as I feel I have done,” Roberts said in a statement to the Times

Vail and CBMR lift workers

reach agreement

Vail Resorts and the Crested Butte Lift Maintenance Union have reached a new tentative agreement through August 2027. Negotiations were scheduled to conclude on Feb. 12, according to a statement from Crested Butte Mountain Resort (CBMR) Communications Manager Katie Lyons. She said that until a contract is finalized, neither party will accept media requests. More details were not available by press time.

The CBMR lift mechanics, a group of 12, considered going on strike in January, citing low pay despite the physical demands and sometimes dangerous nature of the job alongside high turnover.

Ethel Marie Rice passed away peacefully at her home in Gunnison on Jan. 19, 2025. Ethel was born in Crested Butte on March 15, 1940, the only child of Oliver and Ruth Rice. Ethel proudly called herself a “coal miner’s daughter” and the family followed mining opportunities in western Colorado. She spent most of her childhood in the North Fork Valley living in both Hotchkiss and Paonia. Ethel graduated from Paonia High School in 1958. Immediately after high school Ethel accepted an appointment to clerical position working for the FBI within the Department of Justice and moved to the Washington, D.C. area. After a year back east, she knew her heart was in Colorado and she returned home. Ethel was the first person in her family to attend college. She enrolled at Western State College (now Western Colorado University) which started her lifelong love affair with the Gunnison Valley. Ethel graduated in 1963, earning an art degree. She then attended the University of Washington and received a master’s degree in library science in 1965.

Ethel returned to Gunnison in 1965 where she began her 36-year career at Western working at the Leslie J. Savage Library from 1965-2001, as the technical services and special collections librarian. In addition to her library duties, Ethel was an active member of the faculty senate for 14 years including serving as vice-chair. She also contributed for 19 years to the Campus

In her personal time, and later in her retirement, Ethel continued to embrace her love of art and her love of exploring the Gunnison Country. For many years she could be found driving her prized International Scout over mountain passes and backcountry routes and in later years enjoying long drives over Black Mesa and Kebler Pass to visit friends over in North Fork. She continued to collect art with a focus on paintings by local and regional artists, many pieces created by Western students and faculty. Additionally, she was proud of her work in supporting the development of Western’s art curation and gallery management program efforts.

Reflecting on her personal experience as a first-generation college student, she established three student scholarships to give others the opportunities she valued during her own time at Western. A lover of art, Ethel made a gift commitment of $1 million in 2000 to establish an endowed chair in art, and her work in philanthropy was recognized in the congressional record.

In addition to these gifts and her annual giving through the decades, she has designated a portion of her estate proceeds to benefit Leslie J. Savage Library and to support local valley students attending Western through the Gunnison Valley Promise.

In her passing, Ethel leaves behind a patchwork of wonderful friends and rich relationships across Gunnison County and the North Fork Valley in Delta County. Her neighbors were her family, and she was always a fun and engaging friend at dinners, holiday celebrations and just chatting away an afternoon on the front porch. Iris and Porter Houck and Erin and Cael Medina, the neighboring kids on either side of Ethel, grew up with the blessing of having what amounted

to a bonus grandmother, as she grew close to them and celebrated their accomplishments and growth over the years. Ethel also made deep and meaningful relationships with families as a hospice volunteer. She was well known for walking all over town, often with her beloved dog Daisy, her constant companion and sidekick.

Although she might have been best known for her generous philanthropic contributions, those who were lucky enough to know Ethel closely were privileged to know the heart of someone who deeply cared for her friends, her community and Western. In one of her last conversations with a neighbor she expressed gratitude for a life spent on the Western Slope, finding a true calling and career at Western and the satisfaction of knowing her quiet actions and efforts made Gunnison and Western better places.

A celebration of life for Ethel will be held on March 25 from 4-6 p.m. in the West Wing of the Leslie J. Savage Library on the campus of Western Colorado University. Ethel will be laid to rest in the Hotchkiss Cemetery alongside her parents later this spring.

Gregory Lloyd Huckle

On Jan. 31, 2025, Gregory Lloyd Huckle passed away peacefully surrounded by family on his beloved farm. He is survived by his wife Linda, daughters Lauren and Kelsey, and grandchildren Claire and Kaia.

Greg was born in Syracuse,

New York in 1950. While he would have found appreciation and joy living in any part of the country, the Huckle-Alick family would eventually call the Western Slope of Colorado home. Greg was happy to strike up a conversation with just about anyone, but if you never had the opportunity to meet him, you have likely come across one of his many projects in Gunnison County.

“I had a great life, great family, lots of friends, and now I don’t have to deal with a-holes anymore.”

A celebration of life for Greg Huckle will be held on Friday, March 14 from 4-6 p.m. at the Horsefly Brewery in Montrose, Colorado. Please RSVP to hucklekels@gmail.com.

Paul Sammons, 92 of Gunnison, Colorado went home to be with the Lord on Feb. 5, 2025, surrounded by family and friends. A beloved father, grandfather, brother, uncle and friend, Paul will always be remembered for his kindness, love of people and his service to the community.

Born on March 22, 1932 in Gunnison to Alva James Sammons and Lorelia (Brandenburg) Sammons, Paul grew up on the family ranch in Powderhorn, Colorado with his brothers, Perry, Glen, Don, and sisters, Ruth, Ruby and Ila. Paul attended the one-room schoolhouse in Powderhorn from first through eighth grade and graduated from Gunnison High continued on A3

audrie Townsend Broker/Owner

Ethel Marie Rice

Paul Sammons

School in 1950.

Paul married Marie McDonough, the love of his life and soul mate on June 16, 1951, and together they raised three children, Ed, Lois and Bill. Paul worked on the family ranch until he enlisted in the U.S. Army and served from September 1954 until he was honorably discharged in July 1956. While stationed in Nurnberg Germany, Paul served as company clerk.

In 1957 Paul and Marie moved to Brighton, Colorado where they owned and operated the Gunnison Cattle Chute Company, manufacturing cattle handling equipment and operating a welding and machine shop. Paul served on the Brighton Volunteer Fire department for 13 years and was fire chief for three years.

In 1970 Paul began a new journey when he attended Community College of Denver studying fire science and technology. This new education led Paul to a new career as the first paid fire marshal for the City of Brighton. Paul had a great love and respect for all those in the fire service and missed the great camaraderie of those he served with. Friendships formed with these special people were

lifelong. While in Brighton, Paul was the recipient of the Distinguished Service Award. Paul was very interested in the fire service and would probably have made it his career if he had not decided to pursue a business opportunity in Gunnison.

In January 1973, Paul and Marie moved their family back to Gunnison to purchase the NAPA Auto Parts store. They moved the store several times, and then purchased and remodeled an older Safeway store, adding Ace Hardware. At one time Paul and Ed owned NAPA Auto Parts stores in Gunnison, Crested Butte, Delta and Montrose. Paul was also active in the Gunnison Volunteer Fire Department.

Paul and Marie sold the Gunnison and Crested Butte stores in May of 1993, and enjoyed traveling in their semiretirement. Marie passed away April 16, 2009, after nearly 58 wonderful years together.

Paul thoroughly enjoyed managing the nursery at Ace Hardware and volunteering at the Gunnison Pioneer Museum for many summers after selling the stores. The interactions with people greatly enriched these experiences for Paul. Paul also enjoyed snowmobiling, restoring old International tractors, hunting, fishing, camping and

Winter returns

4-wheeling. Paul considered it a great honor to be selected as one of the Cattlemen’s Days Parade Marshals in 2016.

Serving as Eastern Star Worthy Grand Patron with Margaret Rominger was one of the highlights of Paul’s life. It was a wonderful time for both Paul and Marie. Margaret and Harold remained dear friends for life.

Paul was preceded in death by his mother, father, brothers Perry and Don, and sisters Ila and Ruth. Paul is survived by his sister Ruby Hollenbeck and brother Glen Sammons, his three children, Ed (Margie) Sammons, Lois (Kim) Ruggera, and Bill (Christine) Sammons, as well as his grandchildren Lonnie (Jessica) Sammons, Stacey (Josh) Howell, Kevin Vader, Bryan Vader, Evan Sammons, and Lane Sammons. Paul is also survived by his twelve great grandchildren and one great-great grandson.

A service to celebrate Paul’s life will be held Feb. 15, 2025, at 10 a.m. at Gunnison Community Church, 107 North Iowa, Gunnison.

In lieu of flowers, please make donations to Forever 4-H in care of Gunnison County Extension Service or the Gunnison Pioneer Museum.

Clouds form over the Mill Creek castles on Saturday, Feb. 8. With snow finally in the forecast, many Gunnison Valley locals are hoping it brings an end to the false spring that arrived at the beginning of the month.

I want to sincerely thank you for trusting me with your real estate needs. Your support makes my journey in this business truly rewarding. Whether you bought your dream home, or sold a cherished property, it has been an honor to be a part of your story. I look forward to continuing to serve you and your referrals in the future!

Your neighbor, Teresa

CLIENT TESTIMONIAL:

"Teresa recently helped me purchase my first home, a condo. From showing to closing she was completely transparent, tirelessly diligent and eminently helpful in making sure that we got the best deal and that everything was as clear and went as smoothly as possible. She earned my trust and will certainly earn yours too. Highly recommended!!" --EG

When you are ready to buy or sell, contact your trusted real estate partner Teresa Anderson

(Photo by Bella Biondini)

970.641.1414

© 2025 Gunnison Country Times

Publisher/Owner Alan Wartes publisher@gunnisontimes.com

Editor Bella Biondini bella@gunnisontimes.com

Staff Writer Abby Harrison abby@gunnisontimes.com

Photo Editor Mariel Wiley mariel@gunnisontimes.com

Sports Editor Alex McCrindle alex@gunnisontimes.com

Advertising Manager Steve Nunn steve@gunnisontimes.com

Advertising Assistant Bobbie Corn bobbie@gunnisontimes.com

Production Manager Issa Forrest issa@gunnisontimes.com

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

Hours: 9 a.m. - 4 p.m. Monday through Friday

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.

A day in the rain

Writing is an odd and onerous task. Consider the following. A mother stands on a street corner in West Gunnison, watching her children clamber onto the school bus. The temperature is below zero, and her breath appears in small clouds around her as she watches the bus turn the corner. I walk by many mornings after, and each time she’s there, in a slant of blue-white light, waiting until the bus fades from view.

As a journalist, I typically believe we should let the work speak for itself. That being said, I’m leaving the Gunnison Country Times , and would like one chance to speak for the work. I can’t distill the thousands of hours I’ve spent here into lessons learned, but I can tell you about this woman, and why I choose to write about her, and strive to write for her.

The life of this woman is entirely unknown to a writer, but through great effort, she can try to bind this scene into words. The writer does not know the destination. She mostly fumbles with over-exertion, praying that the imprecision of her first attempt can be whittled to a mature point. Is the light a slant or a beam? Is it sky-blue or cerulean? As novelist and essayist Annie Dillard put it: “The line of words is a fiber optic, flexible as a wire; it illuminates the path just before its fragile tip. You probe it, delicate as a worm.”

This task feels nearly impossible when it is in service of a news story, something that is equal parts factual and formulaic; a story that communicates essential information, but strives to be elegant and readable. This task has plagued me for two and a half years, and each edition, it got harder.

When I started this job in

LETTERS

Personal action is required

Editor:

The notion that "we always get the government we deserve" resonates deeply within democratic societies. Whether we actively participate in the electoral process or not, our government is a reflection of the collective will and apathy of the people. This idea challenges us to think on

September 2022, I knew nothing about Gunnison. My family has mined coal and grown fruit in the North Fork Valley for over 100 years, but for all those summers running the Paonia ditch banks, I knew little of the valley over Kebler Pass. But you learn a lot about a place as a journalist, in large part because I was welcomed into your homes, offered a tentative trust that grew with time. Your generosity, candor and vulnerability has reinforced my commitment to this job. It has affirmed my belief that journalism is truly collaborative.

In order to cover a town as a journalist, you also have to be aware of its seasonal rhythms, its people and the way it's governed. This means hundreds of hours in public meetings, days spent hunched over the desk working through board packets or heavily-redacted police records. It is one of a journalist’s many basic tasks to demystify, and explain how committees, budgets and initiatives work without losing sight of the people within them. And always be concise, be rigorous in assertion of fact.

And there is satisfaction in the feeling that facts are simple, unchangeable creatures lying in wait for the journalist to unearth them. But two and a half years of reporting in our town has shown me that while some facts are uncomplicated, the truth of what they mean to people is not. The value we attach to experience distorts it; human subjectivity makes truth a servant to our desires, rather than an arbiter of them.

This is why the job is so grueling. The people in this town — those who lost their homes when the Frontier Land mobile home park shuttered, the men and women who walk hundreds of miles with heavy packs to keep our trails safe, the devoted teachers in the school district or ranchers who face mounting burdens to make ends meet — are tricky to write. There’s no tidy axiom that can capture them fairly. The best we can do is strive for precision.

Don DeLillo put it like this in in a letter to David Foster Wallace:

“I realized that precision can

our roles as citizens, and to evaluate the impact of our actions or inactions on the political landscape.

In recent years, political discourse has become increasingly polarized, with citizens expressing strong opinions about their leaders. Statements like “He's not my president,”and “We don't deserve this” are common, and reflect widespread dissatisfaction and division. However,

be a kind of poetry, and the more precise you try to be, or I try to be, the more simply and correctly responsive to what the world looks like — then the better my chance of creating a deeper and more beautiful language.”

A year ago when I lived in east Gunnison, I often ran into the same man on Signal Peak. One morning, we got caught in a thunderous rainstorm and we stood motionless under a veil of cold rain, abandoned by the flock of birds that usually lines the telephone wires. The expanse of sagebrush seemed to quiver beneath the beating rain, and I was reminded of the first rancher I met here. Two years ago, on a rainy day under a shed with a tin roof, he gestured to the rattling noise and said: “like pennies from heaven.”

There is a strangeness and beauty within these moments, in the rancher’s shed or the back reaches of Signal. Great journalism aspires to write these scenes well. For this reason, I’ve fallen short. In writing about you, the people of Gunnison, I sacrificed depth for compression. I still struggle against these limits, capturing a community’s little intimacies while remaining in the bounds of journalism.

For me, this question is worth the time to untangle. In a recent job interview, I was asked why I wanted to stay in journalism, particularly in light of the promises of the Trump administration to target the press. The answer is threefold and the first is probably annoying as it is moralistic in nature. I think this job is too important. Journalism is a basic, civic function that should serve its community both in explaining the world, and revealing it.

Our newsroom broke stories on the bankruptcy of Gunnison Rising; the purchase of the Crested Butte Old Town Inn by a private equity fund; the myriad reasons Gunnison Valley Family Physicians and Wonderland shuttered. I see this act of unveiling as a basic public good, striving for the utility of those who plow Monarch Pass during the winter, or the people at Gunnison County

these sentiments underscore a fundamental truth: the government that emerges, whether we approve of it or not, is a product of the democratic process, including the influence of those who abstain from voting. Let’s be clear. Donald Trump is our president. He was elected by a popular vote of the American people. Voting is our voice and reflects our collective view. It’s a pretty accurate view.

Health and Human Services who distribute food stamps. The second is that I am surrounded by persevering colleagues at papers large and small. I see ambitious writing that inspects life-threatening failures in government, private tech and party politics. I read stories with complex characters who are neither heroes nor villains, who remind me to reject stereotypes. The journalists I know spend hundreds of hours fact-checking, doubling back with sources and working overtime to include essential context. In short, these are writers who try too hard to do this job well.

Bella Biondini, Alex McCrindle and Mariel Wiley are among these chosen few. Journalism requires people of equal passion, sacrifice and humility. This includes owners Alan and Issa, and our sales manager Steve. I thank them for their tireless effort to print a local newspaper, a bulwark against the mindless clutter of the internet.

For some of us in the valley, life will get harder under Trump. Some of us will watch in horror as our neighbors lose health care or their jobs, while others are taken from their families and sent away. We’ll pray, we’ll post, we’ll say to our friends that our country is dystopian, use words like “tyranny” while our own lives remain unchanged. But therein lies my final reason to stay in journalism.

I expect an outpouring of everyday bravery, moments of extraordinary spirit or resolution in the face of risk. I hope the “neighborliness” of this small town is capable of a great courage. But in order to summon it, our writer — the one within you and me — must first see the mother on the corner and feel the love she has for her children; see our rancher closing his eyes to the sound of rain, caught in child-like wonder.

(Abby Harrison can be contacted at abbyathenaphoto@ gmail.com.)

Using Heritage Foundation data — collected over nearly 40 years of voting in the seven most closely politically divided states, and encompassing more than 400 million votes — the number of identified fraudulent votes totals approximately 250. The result of the 2024 presidential election reflects the will of the American voting public.

Abby Harrison Times Staff Writer

A genuine commitment to community

Like my friend and former newspaper colleague Delaney Keating, and no doubt countless others, I too was saddened upon learning of the passing of Dick Bratton. It’s impossible, however, not to reflect upon the 92 years that Dick’s enthusiasm, curiosity and creativity graced this planet without smiling.

What a life. Dick was a doer. The imprints of his actions run throughout this community, whether people know it or not.

My guess is that most boaters or anglers on the Taylor River are unaware of how their pursuits are benefited today by the complex legal maneuverings he spearheaded in the mid-1970s. The “second right” on the Taylor Reservoir was a ground-breaking maneuver — a “case of first impression” before the Colorado Supreme Court, Dick liked to point out. It helps assure that Taylor River water flows are more predictable and beneficial, for aquatic life as well as recreational endeavors.

How many students (or faculty, for that matter) at Western Colorado University know that if not in part for him, the entrance to campus would very likely have been a Wendy’s? Or, that the scholarships they receive are thanks in part to the foundation he helped establish?

Individuals may not know of these deeds. But this community, collectively, will not forget them.

I consider myself lucky to

have known a person with a community legacy as extensive as Dick’s. I also consider myself lucky to have known the person beyond the accomplishments. Dick was a fun guy to shoot-thebreeze with.

As was pointed out in the wonderful tribute that was published in last week’s paper (my compliments to the obituary writer(s)!), it was hard to run into Dick without being brought into a conversation of one topic or another.

Often, it’d be about the Nuggets. Or the Mountaineers or Cowboys …

“Did you see what (insert name of athlete) did last night?” he’d say to whomever was listening in line at the coffee shop.

His knowledge and interest in all things (and people) of Colorado was even more impressive. If he found out you grew up in Colorado, he invariably knew someone who could have been your middle school track coach.

Delaney was right, though, about the “love-hate” relationship this town had with one of its most influential leaders. More than anything, I’d argue, that largely just goes with the territory of occupying a leadership role. Ours is a society quick to critique.

Dick was a dreamer who had big ideas. Big proposals will inevitably inspire big opposition. Not every idea of Dick’s was popular.

Better than most, I’d say, Dick was good at not letting disagreements get in the way of relationships. Politically, he was a lifelong Republican who had no qualms about going to bat for a Democrat, putting principles (like knowledge of and interest in matters of legitimate importance to western Colorado) above partisanship.

Gunnison Rising will go down locally as one of Dick’s

most controversial ideas. I suspect he’d be the first to say that things haven’t turned out, thus far, exactly how he’d envisioned.

But his original vision, the one he dreamed of and loved to brainstorm about long before the official annexation process even began, was pretty impressive. A lot of things about it — centrally located public lands agency center; modern and expanded fairgrounds facility; mixed-use residential site in which nearby trail and creek accesses were enhanced and protected — made a lot of sense.

Love the idea or hate it, it’s impossible for me not to appreciate the mind and heart that created it. Because it did arise from a genuine affection for this community.

Late in his life, I think Dick’s true colors were on display daily — in the mornings at the coffee shops, in the evenings at the bar with a glass of wine or on weekends at the big game. He loved so many things about Gunnison, and he loved being around people who shared in the joys of living here.

The last time I saw him was at a Western football playoff game just a few months ago. How appropriate that the Mountaineers gave Dick such a memorable farewell season. Lord knows, he’d have been talking about this one, and how so-and-so did such-and-such and how what’s-his-name is related to you-know-who, forever.

(Chris Dickey is the former owner and publisher of the Gunnison Country Times . He can be reached at chrisdickey2021@gmail.com.)

Mindy Costanzo, a long-time broker in Gunnison, shares her insights on today’s market conditions: As we move into 2025, this is an excellent time to buy. Following the election season and President Trump’s inauguration, we are seeing a surge in buyer inquiries across our phones, emails, and websites. We have a growing list of qualified buyers ready to act immediately on the right property—whether it’s a

or

For sellers, this is an opportune moment to capitalize on their investment, while buyers are seizing the chance to enter the market before property values potentially rise further. It’s the perfect storm for both sides of the transaction.

Costanzo | Broker Associate 970.209.2300 | mindy@bbre1.com Mindy-Land.com

I believe it is crucial to engage with local political organizations, ask their advice and understand their political platforms. For instance, asking Gunnison County Democrats what they are doing to combat policies they oppose — such as those from the Trump administration — can provide insight into grassroots efforts and strategies. Similarly, querying Gunnison Republicans about their pride in our president can reveal the values and priorities that guide their support. Voicing your views to our elected and party officials, either directly or through print, can affect policymakers’ decisions. If you don’t vote, don’t take an active part in local, state and national governance, I reckon you can’t complain. As I’ve opined, Gunnison

Country Times publisher Alan Wartes tends to philosophize based loosely on local references, while Crested Butte News editor Mark Reaman writes more directly about local goings-on. In my view, this is particularly true when it comes to politics, and truer regarding national politics (which is all local, to paraphrase Tip O’Neal).

Wartes writes we should “wait and see,” which, to me, is subtle support for the actions of the Trump administration. Reaman calls out Trump’s unlawful actions, but also tacitly accepts a wait and see approach. Both approaches are unsettling — particularly the former.

The Trump administration insinuates it will ignore some courts. The Republican Congress is unwilling to act. Separation of powers, embodied in our Constitution, is in jeopardy. We can’t wait.

Personal action is required! Contact your elected representatives, no matter their party, local and otherwise. Let them know that you will watch and listen for their views and actions in response to Trump’s efforts to radicalize our government. Tell them that their actions will govern your vote and your public support — or lack thereof.

Joe Dix Gunnison

Warning: You must opt in for 2024 TABOR refund

Editor: This year when you file your state taxes, in order to receive your TABOR refund you must check the “Opt In” box. Otherwise, you will not receive

Chris Dickey Special to the Times

lower priority. But over the past couple of years, this conversation has changed, said Superintendent Leslie Nichols.

on the heels of MetRec’s recently released draft regional recreation plan, which illustrated the community’s strong desire and need for more outdoor field space.

For MetRec it only made sense to help the school district see the project through as the renovation team — led by owner’s representative Artaic Group — tried to stretch tax dollars as far as possible.

“[This] was a real, viable opportunity for the community, and it would also help us achieve our vision and make something happen,” said MetRec Executive Director Derrick Nehrenberg. “I really felt like the school district and Artaic have done an amazing job taking our pledge and turning it into something like the miracles of the loaves and fishes.”

Although MetRec’s contribution will not cover the entire $3.8 million cost, the school district will use the money to build a new synthetic turf field at Crested Butte Community School. It will also leverage the cash to install two new natural grass fields and an eight-lane rubber track in Gunnison at a cost of $2.7 million. Prices include new playgrounds at both schools.

The funding will be pulled out of MetRec’s north subdistrict reserves, which have grown since the passage of ballot 6B in 2022. The measure increased the north district’s property tax revenue to fund recreation projects, and generates more than $1 million annually.

When the school district started laying out plans for its districtwide renovation project, it turned to the community for guidance. In the beginning, residents wanted the school district to prioritize the “nuts and bolts,” such as deferred maintenance, and classroom and playground upgrades. Field space was deemed a much

The lack of outdoor field space has created pinchpoints in the valley’s recreation programming. When Crested Butte students travel south for practice because their field is occupied or still covered with snow, it can make schedules tighter in Gunnison. The commute also puts added stress on athletes and parents. And with the recent addition of girls soccer and hockey, and boys lacrosse programs, the competition for field space is greater than ever, said Julia Kidd, former athletic director at Crested Butte High School.

“I've had, over the years, to work tirelessly to find places for these sports to be played,” Kidd said. “We've shoveled, we've traveled, we've shared field space, we've played in the gym. We've gotten really creative, but it's difficult … We do a lot with minimal resources, but I'm really excited to see that there's a move to change that.”

In 2024, the school district was also able to increase its overall renovation budget after a stroke of luck selling its bonds on the market. It also received more than $5 million in state grants. The additional money allowed the school district to fund more project “alternates,” or parts of the design that were lower on the priority list and ultimately removed to keep costs within budget. Fueled by the growing need for space, the school district penciled new fields into its plans this winter.

While the project team initially planned to lay down sod on both ends of the valley, school board members considered the pros and cons of shifting to synthetic turf. North Valley residents advocated for turf, tired of seasons cut short and in some years, those that began without a single afterschool practice on grass.

According to Artaic, a synthetic surface, which can be

plowed more easily and requires less maintenance, would triple the amount of annual playing time available in Crested Butte. The proposed synthetic turf field would also be approved for Colorado High School Activities Association (CHSAA) competitions.

The turf will have natural infill that is manufactured without long-lasting PFAS chemicals. This is in response to community members worried about the possible student health and environmental impacts of the traditional plastic, non-recyclable material found in synthetic turf.

The school district also wanted to cater to the recreation needs of the wider community with this project. It widened the Crested Butte field so it can accommodate youth soccer programs, and committed to plowing it to extend sports seasons and open up more opportunities for events during the spring and fall. The idea is that the school’s facilities “belong to the whole community,” Nichols said, and the district remained committed to making the new space as available as possible.

But the desire for the moreexpensive synthetic turf, paired with complex engineering, have pushed the project over-budget. To ensure the field is level and can fit into the tight footprint of the CBCS campus, the design includes ramps and retaining walls. Sports netting will provide some separation from the nearby playground and parking lot.

As the cost for the new field escalated, the renovation team became concerned that it wouldn’t be able to close the gap. In order for the school district to renovate fields this summer, the school district has to commit soon, said Artaic project manager John Usery. The field decision was being weighed against millions of dollars worth of other school district building improvements.

Facing a tight timeline to get the work done, Nichols told MetRec

the field project would stall without a financial commitment of at least $1 million.

“[This field has] only been brought back on the table through a lot of community voices expressing just how important it is … We're not going to get there without just a little bit more with all the other pressures that we still have remaining in this project,” Nichols said.

MetRec’s contribution also ensures the school district will be able to build a rubber track and overhaul the irrigation system at the Gunnison Community School athletic fields. Minimal in design, not engineered, barely irrigated and managed by a skeleton crew of staff and volunteers, the existing fields are truly “homegrown,” Nichols said.

While the school board considered synthetic turf in Gunnison as well, the design team noted a greater need for a track with high jump, long jump and triple jump pits. Historically, Gunnison athletic teams have relied on Western Colorado University for practice space. But some of the university’s policies have changed to preserve the longevity of its facilities. Now there is more pressure on the school district to provide the same recreation opportunities for students and residents, she said.

“Western's new facilities are gorgeous, and they have all kinds of pressures and needs on those as well,” Nichols said. “It's time for this next step for the school district.”

While he was in “fully in favor” of the project, MetRec board member Earl Marshall said the question the board faced was how to balance the school district’s request in light of the $150 million worth of needs presented in MetRec’s developing regional recreation plan. The draft, released last month, offers a comprehensive look at recreation amenities throughout the Gunnison Valley, while highlighting what residents believe is missing. Outdoor multi-

use fields sat near the top of the priority list; the second-highest need for the North Valley and third for Gunnison.

“How do we move forward in a way that is equitable?” Marshall said.

Cadenhead agreed and said she felt hesitant to hold onto MetRec's growing pot of money in the north subdistrict. If MetRec didn’t spend anything, it would have close to $2.3 million left in its reserves by the end of the year. At the same time, she said MetRec should also be mindful that the project doesn't serve the needs of everyone.

“We need to find a way to make a meaningful contribution that makes this project go, while still having a treasure chest so that we can solve more problems and help more people,” she said.

Since he first became involved with MetRec as a board member almost a decade ago, Nehrenberg said he consistently heard of a “need for fields.” Starting in late 2023, he met with the school district several times about building additional outdoor field space as part of the district-wide renovation project, and pledged MetRec support for one-third of the price. At the time, the “back of the napkin” cost was around $3 million, he said.

Even after fulfilling the school district’s ask, Nehrenberg said MetRec should have enough funding to pursue rec path planning — another high priority in the new regional plan. But with a budget that’s larger than ever, Marshall requested that the board develop a procedure that makes sure MetRec is ready to handle these kinds of community requests in the future. Up until now, the board has only handed out much smaller checks, most as a part of its annual grant program.

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

The school district’s renovation plans include two new natural grass fields and an eight-lane rubber track at the Gunnison Community School. (Photo by Mariel Wiley) MetRec from A1

under Hwy. 50 and Hwy. 135. The estimated cost to fix them exceeds $2 million. Replacing an additional 225 road crossings would cost more than $30,000 apiece. While it is too early to know how much of these costs will be passed onto water customers in the future, one thing is clear, said public works director Pete Rice.

“Nobody's interested in shutting off the ditches, that's not what this project's about,” Rice said.

Today, the city’s Public Works Department manages 26 miles of open ditches that provide free irrigation water to approximately 40% of Gunnison residents. After weeks of preparation each year, water begins rushing through the irrigation ditch system in mid-May. Funneled from the Gunnison River at a headgate north of town, up to 41 million gallons of water flows through the ditches through September.

Many of the pipes date back to the 1960s. Due to their age, maintenance costs are rising, and it takes a significant amount of staff time to clear the ditches each spring. Crews typically dedicate two to three weeks to clean out debris and fix problems before the water is turned on.

“Between [water] treatment, distribution and ditches, the water department is pretty thin,” Rice said.

This spring, engineers will do site visits before the ditches are turned on, and again during the summer when water is flowing. SGM will evaluate the physical

City water department crews conduct daily cleanings when the irrigation

condition of the ditch system, and measure how much water residents are using. Engineers will also review municipal groundwater well records.

The unused ditch water either returns to the river, or seeps into the ground where it helps recharge the aquifer underneath town — eventually feeding into the wells that supply town with its drinking water.

The city could be potentially facing millions of dollars in renovations to keep the ditches operational long-term, with minimal reserves to support large projects. But Gunnison is not alone. Much of the nation’s infrastructure — roads, bridges and water and wastewater systems — is aging. At the same time, resources to maintain them have been limited, said City Manager Amanda Wilson.

In recent years, the city has spent roughly $40,000 annual-

ly on personnel to manage the ditches. The capital project budget is much more variable year to year, and it is not uncommon for the city to overspend if infrastructure fails unexpectedly. For example, in 2025 the city will have to replace a pipeline under Hwy. 50. With the master plan, SGM will help the city figure out how to spread out costs over time, and look for grants and other funding opportunities to help prop up Gunnison’s ditch fund.

“[The hope] is it doesn’t feel like such a big hit all at once, but we’ve kicked the can for a very long time,” Wilson said.

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

The City Center

Your local government’s weekly community ad. Have questions? Call us at (970) 641-8080.

City Council Meetings gunnisonco gov/CouncilMeetings

2nd & 4th Tuesday of each month.

City Hall, 201 W. Virginia Ave., 5:30pm. Meetings typically last 2.5 hours, stay as long or as little as you like. All people and languages are welcome. Agendas available online the Friday before meetings.

Coffee with the City

Presented by the Gunnison Chamber Board of Directors and the City of Gunnison

Thursday February 27, 2025

8:00am-9:30am with coffee provided Gunnison Public Library - 1 Quartz Street

Update on the Land Development Code from Mayor Diego Plata

Mayor Pro Tem Marisela Ballesteros Community Development Team

MEETING NOTICE-RTA

The next meeting of the Gunnison Valley Transportation Authority (RTA) will be February 21, 2025 at 8 a.m. at the Commissioners’ Room in the Gunnison County Courthouse – 200 E. Virginia Ave., Gunnison, CO. For copies of the Board of Directors meeting packet, please go to gunnisonvalleyrta.com/meetings or call Scott Truex at 970-275-0111. Two or more County Commissioners may attend these meetings.

ditches are first turned on in the springtime. (Courtesy City of Gunnison)

$394,000

Stunning

Only

$725,000 MLS# 812949

2,400 S.F., 3 Bedrooms & 2 Bathrooms

Granite countertops, hardwood floors, and hot water baseboard heat

2 Car Garage, plus a pole barn for storage or RVs

Excellent views of valley and mountains, mature trees Easy access off maintained County Road

$1,650,000 MLS# 814484

2,916 S.F. Custom home in Dos Rios Subdivision

4 Bedrooms & 3.5 Bathrooms

Open concept living/dining area, wood burning fireplace, mudroom

3 Car Garage, Covered Patio, and Hot Tub In-law quarters-own entrance, kitchen, bath & W/D

MENTAL HEALTH MATTERS: Finding Hope & Mental Wellness

Join writer Luther Kissam V as he provides us with a first-hand experience of his journey with bipolar disorder and finding peace and stability. Thursday, February 13, 2025

Center for the Arts 606 6th Street Crested Butte, CO 81224 4:30 p.m.

Food and beverages from the Secret Stash 5:00 p.m.

Presentation begins

Whether “manic with planets” or using “the rust of mars” to describe anger, poet Luther Kissam V draws on the celestial, the terrestrial and sometimes the mundane to explore mental health. Have I Told You About My Superpowers is a collection of deeply personal poems that address the chaos and calm of bipolar disorder, and the process that leads to balance. Join Kissam and local behavioral health professionals to discuss the mental wellness of our community and the resources currently available.

that brings thousands of students into the valley each year. Similar to other large institutions like Gunnison Valley Health and the Gunnison Watershed School District, Western also employs hundreds of staff, administrators and professors, most of whom live, and spend their money in the Gunnison Valley.

In October 2024, researchers at the Leeds School of Business at University of Colorado Boulder released an economic impact study on the university’s financial contribution to Gunnison County between Western’s fiscal years of 2021 and 2023. Researchers also calculated the impact on the Gunnison region, which includes eight adjacent counties, and the state.

The study found that during those years, Western generated between $129 million to over $153 million within Gunnison County. The study also found that Western supported an average of over 1,200 jobs per year in Colorado.

“[The study] reinforces the importance of Western to this valley, to this community, to this region and to the state of Colorado,” Western President Brad Baca told the Times. “I think it’s important to keep [this] in front of policy makers and decision makers at the state or local level.”

Economic impact refers to the economic activity — such as income, jobs or GDP — generated and distributed through the economy from any institution, like Western Capturing this impact is a multifaceted process, which includes plugging numbers into computer models, gathering visitation records, event calendars and breaking down enrollment numbers.

“It's not just taking their budget and multiplying it by two. We get very detailed data on what they're buying … We don't just understand what they are spending on people, but we also understand where those people live,” said Brian Lewandowski, Leeds’ executive director of the Business Research Division.

Leeds’ Business Research Division works with governments, private companies, universities and nonprofits across the country. Baca reached out to the division to solicit the report, after years of seeing their work on the economic impact of the CU system.

Western shared a wealth of financial information with the team, including operating and capital expenses, and employee salaries and benefits. Lewandowski said due to the volume and specificity in Western’s shared data, researchers feel the economic modeling is very accurate.

Wages paid to employees generate tens of millions of dollars; in 2023, Western spent over $35 million. The same goes for capital projects and operating expenses. In 2023, Western spent over $28 million on operating expenses, up almost 20% from 2022. Capital expenses that year were much lower, at $4.9 million.

Baca noted that the report only accounts for capital con-

struction expenditures made on Western Colorado University’s dime, and does not include construction funded by a private donor, such as the Paul Rady School of Computer Science and Engineering, or the Mountaineer Bowl Events Complex. Those projects represent nearly $100 million in expenditures.

“Those had pretty robust impacts on the local economy, in terms of bringing in workers who are staying in hotels or renting places, eating in the restaurants and buying local supplies from hardware stores and lumber yards,” Baca said.

The university provided a detailed survey of universityrelated events like sports competitions, conferences, concerts, commencement and homecoming. In 2023, the university estimated that over 22,000 people visited campus, up nearly 5% from 2021. These visitors spent $2.4 million in 2023, calculated using an average daily spending amount.

But lodging also brought in millions. In 2023, the university estimated that visitors booked over 13,000 nights related to Western events, which — using average daily rates for hotels in Gunnison County — translates to nearly $2.5 million in lodging revenue.

The CU team used IMPLAN, an economic modeling software that uses county-specific data, to capture Western’s less obvious impacts. IMPLAN allowed researchers to estimate “upstream” impacts, such as when Western contracts with or buys goods from other companies. This could be a local caterer feeding visitors during a conference. It also captures “induced” impacts, such as employees spending their salaries in the community. For example, IMPLAN can estimate the impact of Western employees who buy groceries at City Market, new clothes at Walmart or purchase an annual ski pass.

Like most computer modeling software, IMPLAN makes a number of assumptions and has to account for things like “leakage,” when the university makes purchases from out-of-state companies (identified by zip codes). Those dollars can no longer be counted as local economic impact, and could include computers or tech manufactured and ordered from another state.

Not every piece of data could be localized. The research team used 2016 survey data from the University of Colorado Boulder to estimate Western student expenditures, as there was no local data to pull from. In 2023, total student spending was estimated at over $30 million, which includes housing, groceries, recreation and entertainment. Researchers adjusted those data for inflation in 2021-23 values to reduce error.

“It [Western] is bringing in that outside money and that outside investment that's helping fuel the local economy,” Lewandowski said. “It’s also creating a future source of labor, people who want to stay there and live there and work there.”

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

Happy birthday to you!

Community members gathered at the Gunnison County Library to celebrate the 60th anniversary of Curecanti National Recreation Area. National Park Service ranger Jaron Boerner-Mercier shared the history of the Curecanti before guiding attendees through a creative exercise to design their own insignia for the recreation area based on their favorite memories there. Later, NPS park ranger Lauren Huckle brought out a black bear hide, elk antlers and a replica of an allosaurus dinosaur skull for the group to see.

(Photos by Mariel Wiley)

ample space for your vehicles and storage needs. The extra space above the garage, accessible via exterior stairs, presents exciting opportunities. Whether you need additional storage or dream of an ADU (Accessory Dwelling Unit), the potential is yours to explore with City of Gunnison approval. Don’t miss the chance to make this new construction your forever home. Contact us now to schedule a viewing and witness the epitome of contemporary living!

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

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

Joint program will increase access to cancer screenings

Joelle Ashley Special to the Times

Gunnison Tough, Living Journeys and the Gunnison Valley Health (GVH) Foundation have created a new cancer screening access fund. The program will support prostate, colon, lung and uterine cancer screenings, offering up to $2,000 per applicant to ease financial barriers for underinsured and uninsured community members.

United by a shared vision, the three organizations have each committed $25,000, creating a $75,000 fund for 2025. The intent is to provide early detection and care to those in need.

While the fund prioritizes prostate, colon, lung and uterine screenings, breast screenings will remain under the support of the Gunnison Tough screening program. This program continues to enhance comprehensive breast care at GVH, utilizing over $1.1 million in state-of-the-art diagnostic equipment donated by Gunnison Tough.

2 Ridge Lane MLS# 817530 $330,000 2 bedroom/2 bath home with 1 car attached garage located in

“This initiative is about so much more than funding; it’s about hope and solidarity,” said Heidi Sherratt, executive director of Gunnison Tough. “By combining our strengths, we’re breaking down barriers to early detection and ensuring that every person in our community has access to lifesaving care. Early detection is not just critical — it’s life-changing.”

Applications for the access fund will be managed by Gunnison Valley Health, ensuring a supportive process for individuals seeking assistance.

LETTERS

“This fund embodies the spirit of collaboration and community care that defines the Gunnison Valley,” said Living Journeys Executive Director Julie Reid. “Together, we are creating a safety net for our neighbors, ensuring no one has to choose between their health and their financial well-being. This partnership reflects our collective belief that we are stronger when we work together.”

The cancer screening access fund will be reassessed annually to address evolving community needs and ensure its ongoing impact. Applications opened on Feb. 1. For more information about the fund, eligibility and how to apply, visit gunnisonvalleyhealth.org or contact the GVH Foundation at 970.642.8406.

(Joelle Ashley is the marketing and communications director for Gunnison Valley Health.)

continued from A5

a TABOR refund check.

Give thanks to our Democrat state legislature for this requirement. It is interesting that we are automatically registered to vote and receive a mail-in ballot, but not to get our own money back from the state of Colorado.

Remember that your Gunnison County Republican Party advised you. Not the Democrat Party. You get what you vote for.

Cori Dobson, Neil Watko Gunnison County GOP

On the subject of immigration

Editor:

their inheritance. The rest of the chapter concerns the description of the borders of the land of Benjamin that the tribe of the children of Benjamin acquired.

The other six tribes inheriting lands also had descriptions of their borders. Borders are a huge part of God's word. Chapters 18 and 19 of Joshua are just a small part of the Old Testament concerning this topic. Borders also define a person's private property. Private property allows the owner protection, privacy and ensures one owner won't encroach on his neighbor.

All this is biblical and should be defended. God is our defender, our high tower and fortress. He provided for us because of his love for us. He is not a God of confusion.

I'd like to thank Jon Matuszczak for his letter in the Jan. 30 edition of the Times concerning the subject of immigration.

Establishing borders to protect a country is biblical. Borders are enclosures to protect an area and its people from invasion, disease, violence and the high expense that incurs when dealing with these problems. A country is not a country without borders.

In the book of Joshua, chapter 18, seven tribes of the children of Israel had not received their inheritance from the Lord. Joshua told them to go and acquire the land according to

Immigration laws have a purpose. People cannot just move into a country, and have an “all expenses paid” life on the backs of the American taxpayer. We who are citizens of this country have — in some cases — insurmountable expenses. We cannot provide, or pay for others that are not supposed to be here, nor should we. They need to go back to their own countries.

We have the responsibility to steward what God gave us and he gave us this country and our private parcels to take care of.

Jo Laird Gunnison

Like father, like daughter

Dads and daughters arrived at the Community Church of Gunnison in their finest attire for the seventh annual Daddy Daughter Dance on Feb. 8. The duos (and some trios) danced the night away to pop and rock classics. Gunnison MomCo. hosted the event.

(Photos by Mariel Wiley)

Slush shred

(Photos by Mariel Wiley)

Spann Ranches named commercial producer of the year

The North American Limousin Foundation (NALF) recognized Spann Ranches, Inc. of Gunnison at the 2025 Ken Holloway Genetics on Ice Benefit Auction in Oklahoma City in January.

“We are deeply honored and humbled to be selected for the Commercial Producer of the Year by the North American Limousin Foundation,” the Spann family wrote in a Facebook post on Jan. 6. “We are always striving to be better for our ranch, our communities, and our industry. It means the world to us to be recognized by our peers.”

Spann Ranches is a fifth generation cow-calf and feeder cattle producer headquartered in the high mountain valley of Gunnison, Colorado. The ranches are owned and operated by the Spann and Washburn families, the descendants of the ranch founders, Lang, Virgil and Lee Spann. With supporting ranches in Crested Butte, Almont, and Olathe, and a farm and 800 head calf backgrounding feedlot in Delta, the Spann family runs up to 900 mother cows. It also raises high-quality feeder cattle, including 400 outstanding bred yearling heifers a year.

The Spann cattle move with the seasons. Calving takes place in April on the headquarters ranch in Gunnison. They are then moved to the high country in Crested Butte in the summer, and return to the Uncompahgre Valley at Olathe and Delta for the winter.

Nearly three-fourths of the cow herd are black-white faced F1 Hereford-Angus, or 25% Lim-Flex cross cows. They are bred annually to Lim-Flex bulls to generate true terminal cross steer and heifer calves. Lim-Flex cattle are a hybrid composition of Limousin and Angus or Red Angus genetics. The Lim-Flex calves have proven to consistently perform at some of the highest levels in the industry.

Spann Ranches operates a sophisticated cattle recordkeeping system the family has

developed over the past three decades using Excel spreadsheets. Beginning within 12 hours of a calf’s birth, animals are tagged, tracked and evaluated throughout their life.

Jan Washburn operates computer inputs at the chutes during processing, pregnancy checking and weaning. This provides timely and objective production information, and allows for efficient real-time decision-making and longerterm marketing and management planning. The entire ranch crews are trained to assist in that process.

(The North American Limousin Foundation is in the business of customer service and genetic evaluation while providing tools to enhance its members’ profitability and maintaining integrity of the herdbook.)

During the month of March - Women's History Month - the Gunnison Chamber is celebrating our amazing community of Valley WOMEN.

We are seeking your nominations during February to honor a special someone to be included in the Chambers public recognitions in March!

To learn all about this fun new campaign and how to participate follow the link HERE: https://form.jotform.com/250196975865070

or this code!

28 - MAR 1 & MARCH 6 - 8

Back: (L) Trent Coleman, NALF board director, (R) Austin Hager, NALF board president. Front (L to R): Mark Anderson, NALF executive director, Doug Washburn, Jan Washburn, Susan Rivale, Bill Rivale, Ken Spann and Val Barnica.

GUNNISON WATERSHED SCHOOL DISTRICT

See GWSD website for details gunnisonschools.net

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

HOURLY OPPORTUNITIES

Special Services Office Manager

CBES - Permanent Substitute Bus Drivers Food Service

Substitute teachers

PROFESSIONAL OPPORTUNITIES

SPED Teacher - GHS

GES Music Teacher

GES STEAM Teacher

COACHING

GHS - Assistant Girls’

Basketball Coach (C team)

GHS - Girls’ Diving/ Asst. Swimming coach

GHS - Head Football Coach

CBHS - Assistant Track & Field coach

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

HOT TUB TECHNICIAN: Part-time year round position with growth opportunities. Pay starts at $25/hour plus incentives. Prior experience, weekend shifts and skilled repair work pays more. AWD work van, work clothing and ongoing training provided. We respect and value our employees. Call CB Hot Tub at 970-275-5700.

THE TOWN OF CRESTED BUTTE seeks applicants for a Planner I to join the Community Development team.

The Planner I works closely with all the Community Development divisions, multiple Town departments, the Board of Zoning and Architectural Review (BOZAR), the Town Council, regional partners within the Gunnison Valley, and the Crested Butte Community. The Planner I assists/leads some smaller case review and processing of development applications to BOZAR.

The Planner I assists in the development and amendment of long-range plans and regulations that guide the growth and development of Crested Butte. The Planner assists some case work for the housing division. The Planner I is a communication resource for the Community Development Department assisting crafting and distributing in public notices; creating and distributing the advertisement of community events; crats and distributes the Department’s new letters; other media to raise public awareness, and performs related work as assigned. This year-round position includes an excellent benefits package with 100% employer paid health, dental, vision, life insurance, and contribution to retirement plan after one year of employment. Starting salary is $61,000 to $85,406 annually, DOQ. Full job description is available on the Town’s website at www. townofcrestedbutte.com/jobs. Please submit application, cover letter, and resume via email to jobs@crestedbutte-co.gov. Position is open until filled. The Town of Crested Butte is an Equal Opportunity Employer.

GUNNISON COUNTY EMPLOYMENT OPPORTUNITIES

Patrol Deputy

Sheriff: Full-Time, 40 hours/week, the annual salary range is from $72,397.26 to $102,405.83 plus full benefits.

Take home vehicle & uniform allowance provided by the Sheriff’s Office.

Detention Deputy

Sheriff: Full-Time, 40 hours/week, the annual salary range is from $65,056.55 to $92,022.40 plus full benefits.

Uniform allowance provided by the Sheriff’s Office.

Heavy Equipment Operator

Public Works: Full-Time, 40 hours/ week, hourly range from $23.60 to $31.69 plus full benefits.

Shop Technician

Public Works: Full-Time, 40 hours/ week, hourly range from $26.51 to $35.61 plus full benefits.

Public Trustee Specialist

Treasurer: 40 hours/week, hourly range is from $23.60 to $28.69, depending on experience, plus full benefits.

Recycling Technician

Public Works: Full-Time, 40 hours/ week, hourly range from $23.60 to $28.69 plus full benefits.

Administrative Assistant –

Alternative Services

Sheriff: Full-Time, 40 hours/week, hourly range from $22.47 to $25.59 plus full benefits.

Eligibility Technician – Bilingual

HHS: Part-Time, 20 hours/week, hourly range from $23.60 to $28.69 plus full benefits.

Eligibility Technician/Economic

Security Specialist

HHS: Full-Time, 20 hours/week, hourly range from $23.60 to $28.48 plus full benefits.

Accountant I

Finance: 40 hours/week, hourly range is from $27.84 to $33.84, depending on experience plus full benefits.

Deputy Finance Director

Finance: 40 hours/week, monthly salary range is from $9,071.59 to $11,028.17, depending on experience, plus full benefits.

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

GUNNISON VALLEY HEALTH IS HIRING:

Medical Assistant, (will train!)$20.84 - $25.53/hour DOE

Patient Access Representative, FT - $18.90 – $23.55/hour

Care Associate, FT - $18 - $20/hour DOE

Benefits Eligibility: Medical, dental, vision, health care FSA, and dependent care FSA: All active employees working 40 or more hours per pay period are eligible for benefits on the first of the month following date of hire. PRN staff are not initially eligible for benefits. Please visit our website for more indepth position descriptions, specific qualification requirements and to apply online at gunnisonvalleyhealth. org/careers or call HR for questions 970-641-1456. (PRN = as needed). All offers of employment are contingent upon the successful completion of a negative 10 panel drug screen test, criminal background check, reference checks, infection prevention procedures (TB test, Flu Shot, immunization records, etc.), physical capacity profile and acknowledgement of policies.

ADAPTIVE SPORTS CENTER SUMMER

INSTRUCTOR: The Adaptive Sports Center is seeking qualified adaptive instructors to facilitate exceptional adaptive sport and recreation activities for the 2025 Summer Season. Pay ranges from $21-$30/hour based on experience. Benefits for full time seasonal staff include pro-forms, certification and membership dues, exam reimbursement, paid sick days, 5-day stipend and a 401(k) match. More information and summer application is at https://www.adaptivesports. org/careers . Applications are due March 15.

VOLUNTEER COORDINATORAMERICORPS POSTION: Gunnison Country Food Pantry seeks a passionate Volunteer Coordinator. This AmeriCorps position (15-20 hrs/week) involves volunteer recruitment, scheduling, training, and retention. Ideal candidates have strong

CITY OF GUNNISON EMPLOYMENT OPPORTUNITIES

Utility Billing Clerk

Full-Time, $53,300-$62,600/yr

We’re looking for a Utility Billing Clerk to join our team! In this role, you’ll be responsible for processing utility bills, maintaining customer accounts, and assisting with payments and inquiries. Your ability to handle data with precision while delivering excellent customer support will make a direct impact on our community. If you thrive in a fast-paced environment and enjoy working with numbers and people, this is the perfect opportunity for you!

Emergency Communications Specialist

Full-Time, $56,900-$66,800/yr

Make a difference in public safety! Responsibilities include receiving and relaying emergency and non-emergency calls, assessing situations, making critical decisions in life-threatening situations, and accurately processing requests for assistance. The role involves operating telecommunications equipment, including radio, telephone, and computer-aided dispatch systems.

Equipment Operator

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

organizational and communication skills, a commitment to community service, and a valid driver’s license. Spanish language skills preferred. Benefits include a bi-weekly living allowance, education award and professional development opportunities. Service Term: March 10 – Dec. 14, 2025. To apply, email healthyfutures@ mountainrootsfoodproject.org and director@ gunnisoncountryfoodpantry.org

Make a difference in Gunnison County—join the team today!

WE AT THE INN AT TOMICHI VILLAGE are seeking a friendly, professional and reliable Front Desk Associate to join our team. This part-time position will involve providing excellent customer service, managing front desk operations and supporting our team in creating a welcoming environment for our clients. To apply stop at the Front Desk at 41883 US Hwy 50.

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

LITTLE RED SCHOOLHOUSE is hiring one more amazing teacher to complete our team! Looking for someone who truly loves working with kids, is patient and kind, has a flexible schedule, is hardworking and reliable, and a team player! This position is part to full time and has some time with infants and toddlers and some time with 3-4 year olds. Come be a part of this rewarding career with awesome pay, benefits and a stable year round full time job. Please submit resume via email to Jessica at lilredschoolhouse1@gmail.com THE CLUB AT CRESTED BUTTE is hiring

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

Part-Time Openings

Lifeguards: $23-$29.33/hr.

The City of Gunnison offers a competitive benefit package, including 75% of medical, dental and vision premiums paid for the employee and their dependents, 5% of gross wages in a retirement plan, 3 weeks of vacation (increasing based on the years of service), 13 paid holidays and 12 days of sick leave per year.

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

a Restaurant Manager. This is a full-time

JOURNEYMAN LINE WORKER POSITION:

To place a 25-word COSCAN Network ad in 91 Colorado Newspapers for only $300, contact your local Newspaper or email rtoledo@colopress net

Income taxes MUST BE FILED to get Colorado TABOR REFUND OF $177 TO $277 (most taxpayers) My $79 remote tax preparation special includes 1040 Colorado Electronic Filing and hard copy or PDF Additional forms extra Enrolled Agent with 33 years experience danataxprep@yahoo com 303-489-3375

COLORADO PRESS ASSOCIATION NETWORK

To Place a 25-word COSCAN Network ad in 91 Colorado Newspapers for $300 Contact your local Newspaper or email rtoledo@colopress net

overtime hours is required. On-call, outpost, and applicable overtime pay will apply. Upon meeting eligibility requirements this position offers health care benefits, retirement benefits, paid time off and paid scheduled holidays. To see the complete list of duties and qualifications and to learn how to apply please see our website at: www.gcea.coop (about tab, careers section). Deadline to apply is Feb. 25.

PROJECT HOPE OF THE GUNNISON

VALLEY seeks a Bilingual Advocate for a 25-27 hour/week position to serve victims of domestic violence, sexual assault, human

CALL FOR NOMINATIONS

A CALL FOR NOMINATIONS

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

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

Sue Wallace (Designated Election Official) Gunnison County Metropolitan Recreation District – 710 South 9th Street, Gunnison, Colorado Sue Wallace – 970-901-6851 Gunnison County Metropolitan Recreation District – 970-641-8725 DEO@gcmetrec. com

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

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

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

Sue Wallace - Designated Election Official Signature

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

NOTICE OF INTENT TO DISPOSE

NOTICE OF INTENT TO DISPOSE: To the following parties that have their

Gunnison,

THRASHER FOUNDATION

Does your basement or crawl space need some attention? Call Thrasher Foundation Repair! A permanent solution for waterproofing, failing foundation, sinking concrete and nasty crawl spaces FREE Inspection & Same Day Estimate $250 off ANY project with code GET250 Call 1-888-717-0104RNET

LITTLE RED SCHOOLHOUSE IN CB

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

GVRHA is hiring a full-time experienced Office Manager to support all aspects of the organization including communications, operations, accounting support and community engagement. The ideal candidate will receive all incoming visitors, calls and general emails, has excellent communication skills (verbal and written), and QuickBooks experience is a plus. Strong organization skills, keen attention to detail, knowledge of and experience with website and social media platforms also required.

fiscal, human, and other resources to effectively provide mandated services to the public. The salary will depend on qualifications will start at $55,00, this position is FLSA Exempt Status.

Application, resume and letters of recommendation shall be submitted to: April Quintana, Human Resources Director; PO Box 100, Saguache, CO 81149, aquintana@ saguachecounty-co.gov, 503 3rd Street, Saguache, CO 81149 – Phone 719-6552231 or Fax 719-655-2635.

Applications will be accepted until the position is filled.

QUALIFICATIONS:

Master’s degree preferred; bachelor’s degree required in the field of sociology, education, public or business administration, or closely related field. Combinations of experience and education may be accepted.

maintaining physical condition necessary for sitting for prolonged periods of time and travel to and from various destinations.

REQUIREMENTS:

Pre-employment drug test for illegal drugs including marijuana.

Pre-employment: Must pass a criminal background check.

Valid Driver’s License: A valid driver’s license is required.

NOTICE

PARAGON ART GALLERY is currently seeking a new artist member to join our co-operative. Only artists local to Gunnison and Crested Butte are eligible to apply. Applications can be picked up in person at 132 Elk Ave. in Crested Butte

REAL ESTATE

trafficking, and/or stalking. To apply, send resume, cover letter, and 3 references to: director@hope4gv.org. See further info on our website at hope4gv.org/employment.

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

GVRHA offers a comprehensive benefit package including paid holiday, vacation, and sick days, generous employer contribution towards medical, dental and vision insurance for both employee and dependents, and 3% employer match to a Simple Ira. Preference given to bilingual candidates. This is a nonexempt position and pays $23-$26/hour. Please send resume to: hiring@gvrha.org. For more information, visit http://gvrha.org/ join-our-team .

SAGUACHE COUNTY DEPT. HUMAN

SERVICES DIRECTOR:

JOB SUMMARY: Responsible for the administration, monitoring, supervision, and performance of the county Department of Human Services programs, as mandated by federal and state laws and regulations and by county directives. Oversee the daily operations of the Department of Human Services. Plans, make decisions, and take appropriate action on issues as they arise, both internally and externally. Manages

Minimum of five (5) years managerial experience responsible for the provision of human service programs. Knowledge of organizational structure, program development, and functions of federal, state, and local human service programs, including budget and finance, with particular reference to their implications at the county level.

Knowledge and familiarity with management practices and procedures, budgeting and financial management, public administration, and personnel management. Thorough knowledge of Colorado’s social service laws and regulations.

Knowledge of principles and practices of social casework, social welfare administration, social research, and community economic, social and health resources.

Ability to establish and maintain effective working relationships with other county departments, community groups and agencies, and members of the public.

Ability to maintain high ethical standards and professionalism when interacting with community members, clients, and members of the public.

PHYSICAL CONDITIONS:

Essential and marginal functions may require

PRIME RETAIL SPACE NEXT TO CITY MARKET IN GUNNISON: 1,500 sq. ft. of prime ground floor retail space available in the Meadows Mall next to City Market in Gunnison - Huge parking lot, tons of foot traffic, excellent 135 highway visibility - Rent is $2,750/month NNN - For more information, call Jordon Ringel at 817-733-6947 or visit GunnisonMeadows.com.

CO-WORKING SPACE for Impact Cafe for not for profit organizations and other like minded organizations at 235 N Main (rear) Conference room, Podcast station and waiting room. $175 monthly which includes coffee and 24 hour access. 847-769-7800 or LiskorInternational@gmail.com.

or

to February 21, 2025 Units 217 & 220 – Renee Gulliksen

Gunnison Country Times Gunnison, Colorado Publication dates of February 13 and 20, 2025 16166

NOTICE OF NAME CHANGE

Public Notice is given on January 24, 2025 that a Petition for a Change of Name of an Adult has been filed with the Gunnison Combined Court.

The Petition requests that the name of STEVEN RAY HAMILTON be changed to STEVEN RAY HAMILTON

Cinda S Fry Clerk of Court /s/ Cinda S Fry

Gunnison Country Times Gunnison, Colorado

Publication dates of February 6, 13 and 20, 2025 16112

NOTICE TO CREDITORS

In the Matter of the Estate of:

Ethel Marie Rice

Deceased

Case Number 2025PR1

All persons having claims against the above named estate are required to present them to the personal representative or to District Court of Gunnison County, Colorado on or before June 15, 2025 or the claims may be forever barred.

Jonathan D. Houck Personal Representative 421. N. Boulevard St. Gunnison, CO 81230

Gunnison Country Times

Gunnison, Colorado

Publication dates of February 13, 20 and 27, 2025 16174

NOTICE TO CREDITORS

In the Matter of the Estate of:

JESSIE MARIE WEAVER, a/k/a JESSIE M. WEAVER, a/k/a JESSIE WEAVER

Deceased

Case Number 2025PR30002

All persons having claims against the above

named estate are required to present them to the personal representative or to District Court of Gunnison County, Colorado on or before June 13, 2025 or the claims may be forever barred.

Dale Weaver, Personal Representative c/o Hoskin, Farina & Kampf, P.C. Post Office Box 40 Grand Junction, Colorado 81502

Gunnison Country Times

Gunnison, Colorado Publication dates of February 13, 20 and 27, 2025 16171

NOTICE TO CREDITORS

Estate of Sally Ann Duck a/k/a Sally A. Duck, Deceased

Case Number 2025PR30000

All persons having claims against the above named estate are required to present them to the personal representative or to the District Court of Gunnison, County, Colorado on or before June 9, 2025, or the claims may be forever barred.

John J. Malensek, Personal Representative of the Estate of Sally Ann Duck a/k/a Sally A. Duck 3995 County Road 10 Gunnison, CO 81230

Please contact through counsel: Jacob A. With, Atty. #:40546 Law of the Rockies 525 N. Main Street Gunnison, CO 81230 970-641-1903 ex. 2

Gunnison Country Times

Gunnison, Colorado Publication dates of February 6, 13 and 20 2025 16118

PUBLIC HEARING

NOTICE OF BOARD OF ADJUSTMENT

PUBLIC HEARING

CONCERNING LUC-24-00046, A LAND USE CHANGE PERMIT APPLICATION FOR A SETBACK VARIANCE

A PARCEL OF LAND LOCATED AT LOT 4 IN BLOCK 6, TOWN OF SOMERSET, GUNNISON COUNTY, COLORADO PARCEL NO. 3185-170-06-002

HEARING DATE, TIME AND LOCATION: The Gunnison County Board Adjustment will conduct a public hearing on March 6, 2025 at 9:00 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 concerning this land use change permit application.

APPLICANT: Debra Pennington

PARCEL LOCATION: Lot 4 in Block 6, Town of Somerset. Parcel No. 3185-170-06-002.

PROPOSAL: The Applicant is requesting a variance from Gunnison County’s 15 foot side and rear setbacks. The Applicant would like to place a 16’ x 40’ shed on their .1 acre lot in the Town of Somerset. The shed would be 10 feet from the southeast parcel boundary, 5 feet from the southwest parcel boundary and 7.52 feet from the northeast parcel boundary.

PUBLIC PARTICIPATION: The public is invited to submit oral or written comments at the hearing, or to submit written comments 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/ Rachael Blondy Planner II Gunnison County Community Development Department

Gunnison Country Times Gunnison, Colorado Publication date of February 13, 2025 16184

PUBLIC HEARING

NOTICE OF GUNNISON COUNTY BOARD OF COUNTY COMMISSIONERS AND PLANNING COMMISSION JOINT PUBLIC HEARING CONCERNING LUC24-00053, A LAND USE CHANGE PERMIT APPLICATION FOR A 2-LOT SUBDIVISION MINOR IMPACT APPLICATION

A TRACT OF LAND LOCATED WITHIN THE E1/2 OF SECTION 10, AND IN THE W1/2 OF SECTION 11, TOWNSHIP 49 NORTH, RANGE 1 WEST OF THE NEW MEXICO PRINCIPAL MERIDIAN, SAID TRACT OF LAND ALSO BEING A PORTION OF PARCEL 1 OF THE DOS RIOS RANCHES, INC AS DESCRIBED IN BOOK 385 AT PAGE 294 OF THE RECORDS OF THE CLERK AND RECORDER OF GUNNISON COUNTY

PARCEL NO. 3787-000-00-109

HEARING DATE, TIME AND LOCATION: The Gunnison County Board of County Commissioners and Planning Commission will conduct a public hearing on March 20, 2025 at 9:00 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-and-Economic-Development for the ZOOM meeting link to hear public comments concerning this land use change permit application.

APPLICANT: Dunbar Family Partnership LLC

Parcel Location: A Tract Of Land Located Within The E1/2 Of Section 10, And In The W1/2 Of Section 11, Township 49 North, Range 1 West Of The New Mexico Principal Meridian, Said Tract Of Land Also Being A Portion Of Parcel 1 Of The Dos Rios Ranches, Inc As Described In Book 385 At Page 294 Of The Records Of The Clerk And Recorder Of Gunnison County Parcel No. 3787-000-00-109

PROPOSAL: The Applicant is proposing a subdivision of 111.505 acres south of Gunnison, into a 102.6 acre and a 7.31 acre parcel. The owner wishes to subdivide off the 7.31 acres to sell to the current lessee to maintain the agricultural uses. The tenant would like to own the acreage that contains the ranching storage and operations structures. By owning that acreage, he can improve upon the structures at his discretion and cost. No additional buildings or roads are expected as a part of this application.

PUBLIC PARTICIPATION: The public is invited to submit oral or written comments at the hearing, or to submit written comments 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/ Rachael Blondy Planner II Gunnison County Community Development Department

Gunnison Country Times Gunnison, Colorado Publication date of February 13, 2025 16187

PUBLIC HEARING

NOTICE OF GUNNISON COUNTY PLANNING COMMISSION AND BOARD OF ADJUSTMENT JOINT PUBLIC HEARING CONCERNING LUC-24-00057, A LAND USE CHANGE PERMIT APPLICATION FOR A 4-UNIT RESIDENTIAL BUILDING REMODEL MINOR IMPACT APPLICATION AND SETBACK VARIANCE

A PARCEL OF LAND LOCATED AT LOTS 1 THROUGH 8, BOTH INCLUSIVE, AND LOTS 17 THROUGH 24, BOTH

INCLUSIVE, BLOCK C, STEPHENSON

ADDITION, TOGETHER WITH THE WEST 10 FEET OF ROLLER STREET FROM THE SOUTHERN BOUNDARY OF MAIN

STREET CONTINUING SOUTHERLY TO THE NORTHERN BOUNDARY OF GUNNISON STREET AND ADJACENT TO THE LOTS 1 AND 24, AND THE ALLEY

BETWEEN LOTS 1 AND 24, BLOCK C, AND THE EAST – WEST ALLEY

ADJACENT TO LOTS 1 THROUGH 8

INCLUSIVE, AND LOTS 17 THROUGH 24, INCLUSIVE, BLOCK C, ALL WITHIN THE STEPHENSON ADDITION OF THE DISINCORPORATED TOWNSITE OF OHIO CITY, COUNTY OF GUNNISON, STATE OF COLORADO

3185-170-06-002

PARCEL NO.

HEARING DATE, TIME AND LOCATION:

The Gunnison County Planning Commission and Board of Adjustment will conduct a public hearing on March 6, 2025 at 9:20 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-and-EconomicDevelopment for the ZOOM meeting link to hear public comments concerning this land use change permit application.

APPLICANT: Reno Living Trust

PARCEL LOCATION: A Parcel Of Land

Located At Lots 1 Through 8, Both Inclusive, And Lots 17 Through 24, Both Inclusive, Block C, Stephenson Addition, Together With The West 10 Feet Of Roller Street From The Southern Boundary Of Main Street Continuing Southerly To The Northern Boundary Of Gunnison Street And Adjacent To The Lots 1 And 24, And The Alley Between Lots 1 And 24, Block C, And The East – West Alley Adjacent To Lots 1 Through 8 Inclusive, And Lots 17 Through 24, Inclusive, Block C, All Within The Stephenson Addition Of The Disincorporated Townsite Of Ohio City, County Of Gunnison, State Of Colorado. Parcel No. 3695-262-06-003

PROPOSAL: The Applicant is proposing

a 4-unit residential building remodel of The Mother Lode in Ohio City. The Applicant is requesting a variance from Gunnison County’s 15 foot side setback. The Mother Lode has an existing, nonconforming side setback of 13’ 6” on the eastern boundary. They would like to extend the existing setback by 25’ 11” to the south as part of the residential addition.

PUBLIC PARTICIPATION: The public is

invited to submit oral or written comments at the hearing, or to submit written comments 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/ Rachael Blondy Planner II Gunnison County Community Development Department

Gunnison Country Times

Gunnison, Colorado Publication date of February 13, 2025 16185

REQUEST FOR PROPOSAL

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

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

SUMMONS

DISTRICT COURT, GUNNISON COUNTY, COLORADO

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

Plaintiff: SAW CONTRACTING LLC, a Colorado limited liability company, v. Defendants: ADAM MASONBRINK

Case No. 2024CV30050

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

Facsimile: (970) 797-1023

E-mail: huck@hucksteplaw.com

SUMMONS BY PUBLICATION

TO THE DEFENDANT NAMED ABOVE:

You are summoned and required to file with the Clerk of this Court an Answer or other response to the attached Complaint. If service of the Summons and Complaint was made upon you within the State of Colorado, you are required to file your Answer or other response within twenty-one (21) days after such service upon you. If service of the Summons and Complaint was made upon you outside of the State of Colorado, you are required to file your Answer or other response within thirty-five (35) days after such service upon you.

If you fail to file your Answer or other response to the Complaint in writing within the applicable time period, judgment by default may be entered against you by the Court for the relief demanded in the Complaint, without any further notice.

The following documents are also served herewith:

District Court Civil Cover Sheet

Complaint

Exhibit A to Complaint

This Summons is issued pursuant to Rule 4, C.R.C.P., as amended. A copy of the Complaint must be served with this Summons. This form should not be used where service by publication is desired.

TO THE CLERK: If the Summons is issued by the clerk of court, the signature block for the clerk or deputy should be provided by stamp, or typewriter, in the space to the left of the attorney’s name.

Signed this 11th day of February, 2025 /s/ Aaron J. Huckstep

Gunnison Country Times Gunnison, Colorado Publication dates of February 13, 20, 27 and March 6, 13, 2025

16211

WATER RESUME

DIVISION 5 WATER COURT- JANUARY 2025 RESUME (This publication can be viewed in its entirety on the Colorado State Judicial website at: www.coloradojudicial.gov).

12. PURSUANT TO C.R.S., §37-92-302, AS AMENDED, YOU ARE NOTIFIED THAT THE FOLLOWING PAGES COMPRISE A RESUME OF THE APPLICATIONS AND AMENDED APPLICATIONS FILED WITH THE WATER CLERK FOR WATER DIVISION 5 DURING THE MONTH OF JANUARY 2025. The water right claimed by this application may affect in priority any water right claimed or heretofore adjudicated within this division and owners of affected rights must appear to object and protest within the time provided by statute or be forever barred. 25CW3011 GUNNISON COUNTY, CRYSTAL RIVER, ROARING FORK RIVER, COLORADO RIVER. Marble Airfield, LLC, c/o Anne Marie McPhee, Oates, Knezevich, Gardenswartz, Kelly & Ticsay, P.C., 533 E. Hopkins Avenue, 3rd Floor, Aspen, CO 81611, (970) 920-1700. Claim for Finding of Reasonable Diligence. Conditional water right: Gallegos Pond #1. Information regarding Original Decree: Date of Decree: 3/8/2012; Case No. 11CW11; Court: Water Division 5. Legal description: NW 1/4 NW 1/4, Sect. 27, Township 11 S, Range 88 W of the 6th P.M., 950 ft from N section line and 450 ft from the W section line. Source: Seeps and springs tributary to the Crystal River, tributary to the Roaring Fork River, tributary to the Colorado River. Approp. Date: 9/6/2008. Decreed Amt: 2.5 af, conditional. Decreed Use: fish culture, wildlife and stock watering. If claim to make absolute: N/A. A detailed description of the work performed towards developing the subject water right

and map with the location of the subject water right are on file with the Court. Owner of land where the structure is located and will be used: Applicant. (5 pages of original application, including map).

YOU ARE HEREBY NOTIFIED THAT YOU HAVE until the last day of MARCH 2025 to file with the Water Clerk a verified Statement of Opposition setting forth facts as to why this application should not be granted or why it should be granted in part or on certain conditions. A copy of such statement of opposition must also be served upon the applicant or the applicant’s attorney and an affidavit or certificate of such service shall be filed with the Water Clerk, as prescribed by Rule 5, CRCP. (Filing Fee: $192.00) KATHY POWERS, Water Clerk, Water Division 5; 109 8th Street, Suite 104 Glenwood Springs, CO 81601. Gunnison Country Times Gunnison, Colorado Publication dates of February 13, 2025 16216

WATER RESUME

DIVISION 5 WATER COURT- JANUARY 2025 RESUME

(This publication can be viewed in its entirety on the Colorado State Judicial website at: www.coloradojudicial.gov).

14. PURSUANT TO C.R.S., §37-92-302, AS AMENDED, YOU ARE NOTIFIED THAT THE FOLLOWING PAGES COMPRISE A RESUME OF THE APPLICATIONS AND AMENDED APPLICATIONS FILED WITH THE WATER CLERK FOR WATER DIVISION 5 DURING THE MONTH OF JANUARY 2025. The water right claimed by this application may affect in priority any water right claimed or heretofore adjudicated within this division and owners of affected rights must appear to object and protest within the time provided by statute or be forever barred.

25CW3014 (2018CW3049, 10CW59, 02CW278, 96CW135, 96CW136, 96CW137, 96CW138) IN PITKIN COUNTYAPPLICATION FOR FINDINGS OF REASONABLE DILIGENCE Board of County Commissioners of Pitkin County, Colorado, c/o Jennifer M. DiLalla, Molly K. Haug-Rengers, Moses, Wittemyer, Harrison and Woodruff, P.C., 2595 Canyon Blvd, Suite 240, Boulder, CO 80302 1. Name, mailing address, email address, and telephone

number of applicant: Board of County Commissioners of Pitkin County, Colorado (“Pitkin County”), c/o Richard Y. Neiley, County Attorney, 530 E. Main St., Suite 301, Aspen, CO 81611 2. Conditional water rights: Corral Spring; Clementine Ditch No. 2, First Enlargement; Kohner Pipeline; and Kohner Pond (“Subject Water Rights”). All of the Subject Water Rights were decreed in the District Court for Water Division No. 5. A map showing the approximate locations of the Subject Water Rights is attached as Exhibit A; the map was attached to the most recent diligence decree for the Subject Water Rights, in Case No. 18CW3049, as Figure 1. 3. Pitkin County’s ownership: Pitkin County acquired the Subject Water Rights by deed dated July 7, 2020, and recorded in the real property records of Pitkin County on July 9, 2020, at Reception No. 665808. 4. Corral Spring: 4.1 Original decree: Case No. 89CW287, entered July 5, 1990. 4.2 Subsequent decrees awarding findings of diligence: Case No. 96CW135, entered November 6, 1996 (“96CW135 Decree”); Case No. 02CW278, entered March 1, 2004 (“02CW278 Decree”); Case No. 10CW59, entered April 12, 2012 (“10CW59 Decree”); Case No. 2018CW3049, entered January 27, 2019 (“18CW3049 Decree”). 4.3 Legal description: In the SE1/4 of the SW1/4 of Section 29, Township 8 South, Range 89 West of the 6th P.M. at a point 50 feet North of the South line and 2450 feet East of the West line of said Section 29. 4.4 SOURCE OF WATER: SPRING TRIBUTARY TO AN UNNAMED TRIBUTARY TO THOMPSON CREEK, TRIBUTARY TO THE CRYSTAL RIVER, TRIBUTARY TO THE ROARING FORK RIVER. 4.5 Appropriation date: July 29, 1989. 4.6 Amount: 0.10 cfs absolute for livestock watering purposes and 0.1 cfs conditional for domestic purposes. 4.7 Use: Domestic and livestock watering purposes. 5. Clementine Ditch No. 2, First Enlargement: 5.1 Original decree: Case No. 89CW288, entered August 2, 1990. 5.2 Subsequent decrees awarding findings of diligence: 96CW135 Decree; 02CW278 Decree; 10CW59 Decree; 18CW3049 Decree. 5.3

Legal description: On the West bank of Clementine Creek at point whence the SE

corner of Section 29, Township 8 South, Range 89 West of the 6th P.M. bears South 45 degrees 15 minutes East, a distance of 1,996.66 feet. This location may also be described as being in the NW1/4 SE1/4 of Section 29, Township 8 South, Range 89 West of the 6th P.M. at a point 1,380 feet north of the south line and 1,430 feet west of the east line of said Section 29. 5.4 Source of water: Clementine Creek, tributary to Thompson Creek, tributary to the Crystal River, tributary to the Roaring Fork River. 5.4.1 Alternate point of diversion: The decree entered in Case No. 10CW59 changed 0.1 cfs of the 1.31 cfs decreed to the Clementine Ditch First Enlargement to the Corral Spring located in the SE1/4 of the SW1/4, Section 29, Township 8 South, Range 89 West of the 6th P.M., at a point 820 feet North of the South Section line and 2,570 feet East of the West Section line of said Section 29. 5.5

Appropriation date: July 29, 1989. 5.6

Amount: 1.21 cfs conditional. 5.7 Use: Irrigation of 3 acres and to fill Kohner Pond, as described in paragraph 7 below. 6. Kohner Pipeline: 6.1 Original decree: Case No. 89CW289, entered June 26, 1990. 6.2

Subsequent decrees awarding findings of diligence: Case No. 96CW135 (Consolidated Case Nos. 96CW136, 96CW137, 96CW138) (Case Nos. 89CW287 through 89CW290), November 6, 1996; Case No. 02CW278, March 1, 2004; Case No. 10CW59, April 12, 2012; Case No. 2018CW3049, January 27, 2019; all in Division 5. 6.3 Legal description: On the left bank of Clementine Creek in the SW1/4 SE1/4 of Section 29, Township 8 South, Range 89 West of the 6th P.M. at a point 670 feet North of the South line and 1,630 feet West of the East line of said Section 29. 6.4 Source of water: Clementine Creek, tributary to Thompson Creek, tributary to the Crystal River, tributary to the Roaring Fork River. 6.5 Appropriation date: July 29, 1989. 6.6 Amount: 0.195 cfs. 6.7

Use: Domestic use in nine cabins, stock watering, and the irrigation of lawn and landscaped areas. 7. Kohner Pond: 7.1

Original decree: In the Matter of the Application for Water Rights of Ellen Kohner, in the Roaring Fork River, or Its Tributaries, Tributary Involved: Clementine Creek, in

Pitkin County, Case No. 89CW290, entered June 26, 1990, District Court, Water Division 5, Colorado. 7.2 Subsequent decrees awarding findings of diligence: 96CW135 Decree; 02CW278 Decree; 10CW59 Decree; 18CW3049 Decree. 7.3 Legal description: The NW abutment of the Pond embankment is located in the NW1/4 SE1/4 of Section 29, Township 8 South, Range 89 West of the 6th P.M. at a point 3,100 feet South of the North line and 1,600 feet West of the East line of said Section 29. 7.3.1 Alternate storage locations: The decree entered in Case No. 10CW59 approved alternate locations of storage of 0.72 acrefeet for irrigation, piscatorial, and augmentation uses, as follows: 7.3.1.1 0.06 acre feet at the Cabin Pond No. 1: The center line of the dam at the spillway is located in the NE1/4 of the SE1/4 of Section 29, Township 8 South, Range 89 West of the 6th P.M. at a point 2270 feet North of the South section line and 950 feet West of the East Section line of said Section 29. 7.3.1.2 0.1 acre feet at the Cabin Pond No. 2: The center line of the dam at the spillway is located in the NE1/4 of the SE1/4 of Section 29, Township 8 South, Range 89 West of the 6th P.M. at a point 2340 feet North of the South section line and 930 feet West of the East Section line of said Section 29. 7.3.1.3 0.04 acre feet at the Cabin Pond No. 3: The center line of the dam at the spillway is located in the NE1/4 of the SE1/4 of Section 29, Township 8 South, Range 89 West of the 6th P.M. at a point 2390 feet North of the South section line and 980 feet West of the East Section line of said Section 29. 7.3.1.4

0.52 acre feet at the Corral Pond: The center line of the dam at the outlet pipe is located in the SE1/4 of the SW1/4 of Section 29, Township 8 South, Range 89 West, of the 6th P.M., at a point approximately 820 feet North of the South Section line, and 2570 feet East of the West section line of said Section 29. 7.4 Source of water: Clementine Creek, tributary to Thompson Creek, tributary to the Crystal River, tributary to the Roaring Fork River. 7.5 Appropriation date: July 29, 1989. 7.6 Conditional amount: 0.72 acre-feet absolute for all purposes and 9.28 acre-feet conditional for all purposes. 7.7

Use: Irrigation of 3 acres, aesthetics, piscatorial, and augmentation purposes. 8. Detailed outline of work and expenditures toward completion of the appropriations and application of the water to beneficial use: 8.1 Diligence period: The diligence period for the Subject Water Rights is January 2019 to January 2025 (“Diligence Period”). During the Diligence Period, the County acquired and then worked diligently to develop the Subject Water Rights, complete the appropriations, and place the water to beneficial use, as demonstrated by the following representative but non-exhaustive list of activities and expenditures. 8.1.1 Pitkin County spent approximately $4 million to acquire the land on which the Subject Water Rights are decreed to be used, along with the Subject Water Rights themselves. The property is now known as the “TD Ranch Preserve.” 8.1.2 As described in Exhibit B, Pitkin County worked with the Aspen Valley Land Trust (“AVLT”) and Great Outdoors Colorado to obtain funding for the TD Ranch Preserve acquisition. AVLT subsequently finalized and recorded a conservation easement on the TD Ranch Preserve. 8.1.3

Since acquiring the Subject Water Rights in July 2020, Pitkin County leased the water rights for active agricultural production. A copy of the 2023-2024 lease is attached as Exhibit C; and an aerial photo showing the place of use is attached as Exhibit D. Paragraph 9 of the lease describes the lessee’s obligation to place the Subject Water Rights to beneficial use. 8.1.4 Since 1983, the owner of the Subject Water Rights has maintained a Special Use Permit from the United States Forest Service (USFS) for a ten-foot right-of-way for the operation and maintenance of a buried pipeline for water transmission on the TD Ranch Preserve. Pitkin County pays the USFS an annual Special Use Fee of approximately $160 to maintain the permit. 9. Names and addresses of owners or reputed owners of the land upon which any new diversion or storage structure, or modification to any existing diversion or storage structure is or will be constructed or upon which water is or will be stored, including any modification to the existing storage pool: Pitkin County.

Faith Directory

Bethany Church

909 N Wisconsin St.

(behind Powerstop) • 970-641-2144

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

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

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

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

B'nai Butte Jewish Congregation PO Box 2537 Crested Butte, CO 81224

305-803-3648 bnaibutte@gmail.com

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

Feb.14 at 5-6 PM; Special Tu BiShvat, Birthday of trees” children’s activity/service

Feb.14 at 5-6 PM, 6-8 PM : Tu Bishvat shabbatluck service, pls bring a dish/drink to share.

Feb. 15 at 10:30 AM-12 noon: “Kibbitz with the Rabbi” at the Daily Dose in CB- new location

Feb. 15 at 6:30 PM, Havdalah/dessert service, pls bring a dessert to share, CB South Feb. 16 at10:30 AM- 12 noon; Today’s Torah, in Gunnison

For more details and locations go to bnaibutte.org

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

New Song Christian Fellowship

77 Ute Lane • 970-641-5034

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

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

Community Church of Gunnison

107 N. Iowa • 970-641- 0925

Pastor Larry Nelson

Sunday Morning Worship 9:30 a.m.

Weekend Services 9:30 a.m.

Nursery & Age-Graded Ministry

Weekly Student Ministry

Weekly Adult LifeGroups

Office Hours: Mon-Thurs, 9-4 For more info: ccgunnison.com or email info@ccgunnison.com

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

Transforming Lives • Building Community

First Baptist Church

120 N. Pine St. • 970-641-2240

Pastor Jonathan Jones

SUNDAY

Sunday School at 10 a.m.

Sunday Morning Worship at 11 a.m.

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

WEDNESDAY (during school year)

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

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

Gunnison

Congregational Church

United Church of Christ

317 N. Main St. • 970-641-3203

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

Trinity Baptist Church

523 N. Pine St. • 970-641-1813

Senior Pastor - Joe Ricks

Sunday Service 9:30 a.m. Adult Bible Study 8 a.m. trinitybaptistsgunnison.com

Mt. Calvary Lutheran Church

711 N. Main • 970-641-1860

Senior Pastor Robert Carabotta

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

Adult Sunday School – Sunday 9 a.m.

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

St. Peter’s Catholic Church

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

St. Peter’s - Gunnison Sat 5 p.m. & Sun 10:30 a.m., 12 p.m. (Spanish) Mass

First Sunday of every month bilingual Mass 11 a.m.

Queen of All Saints - Crested Butte, 401 Sopris Sun 8:30 a.m. Mass

St. Rose of Lima - Lake City

Communion Service, Sun. at 10 a.m.

Based on the foregoing, Pitkin County respectfully requests that the Court enter a decree (i) granting this Application; (ii) finding that Pitkin County has exercised reasonable diligence in developing and completing the appropriations of the Subject Water Rights during the Diligence Period; and (iii) continuing those conditional water rights in full force and effect for six years from the month in which a final decree is entered in this case. YOU ARE HEREBY NOTIFIED THAT YOU HAVE until the last day of MARCH 2025 to file with the Water Clerk a verified Statement of Opposition setting forth facts as to why this application should not be granted or why it should be granted in part or on certain conditions. A copy of such statement of opposition must also be served upon the applicant or the applicant’s attorney and an affidavit or certificate of such service shall be filed with the Water Clerk, as prescribed by Rule 5, CRCP. (Filing Fee: $192.00) KATHY POWERS, Water Clerk, Water Division 5; 109 8th Street, Suite 104 Glenwood Springs, CO 81601.

Gunnison Country Times

Gunnison, Colorado Publication date of February 13, 2025 16217

The Good Samaritan Episcopal Church

307 W. Virginia Ave. • 970-641-0429

Rev. Laura Osborne, Vicar

First Sunday of each month –11 a.m. Holy Eucharist, Rite II Alternating at Good Samaritan and All Saints in the Mountains

Check our websites for location Second Sunday-Fifth Sunday –9 a.m. Holy Eucharist, Rite II Children’s Sunday school –2nd and 4th Sundays, monthly Office hours: M-TH 9 a.m. – 4 p.m. Taize – 1st Wednesday, monthly - 7 p.m. goodsamaritangunnison.org

Visit our partnership church: All Saints in the Mountains, Crested Butte Meeting Second-Fifth Sundays at 5 p.m., Holy Eucharist, Rite II 403 Maroon Ave, Crested Butte

Visit our website for location of 11 a.m. Holy Eucharist, First Sunday of each month allsaintsinthemountains.org

Church in the Barn 8007 County Road 887 Waunita Hot Springs Ranch • 970-641-8741 Sundays, 10:30 a.m. Non Denominational Come as you are.

Church of Christ

600 E. Virginia • 970-641-1588

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

Sunday Morning Worship: 10:30 a.m.

Sunday Evening Worship: 6 p.m.

Wednesday Night Bible Class: 7 p.m.

Lights & Sirens

CITY OF GUNNISON POLICE REPORT

FEBRUARY 5

TRAFFIC - CARELESS DRIVING —

200 E. SPENCER AVE.

FAILED TO (PROVIDE/PROPERLY USE) (FORWARD/ REAR) FACING CHILD RESTRAINT SYSTEM (1-3 YOA) — 1498 W. TOMICHI AVE.

VIOLATION OF PROTECTION ORDER: CRIMINAL ORDER — S. 12TH ST.

ASSAULT: SECOND DEGREEWITH INTENT — S. 14TH ST.

FEBRUARY 6

MUNICIPAL CODE VIOLATION —

405 W. TOMICHI AVE.

WELFARE ASSIST — 910 W. BIDWELL AVE.

FEBRUARY 7

PROPERTY - FOUND — 916 W. VIRGINIA AVE.

ANIMAL - RUNNING AT LARGEMUNICIPAL — 400 N. 8TH ST.

WELFARE ASSIST — 1313 W. OHIO AVE.

DRIVING UNDER THE INFLUENCE OF ALCOHOL PER SE 0.08 — 200 E. DENVER AVE.

ANIMAL - VICIOUS / DANGEROUS - MUNICIPAL — 122 FLORESTA ST.

FEBRUARY 8

ACCIDENT — 1 AIRPORT RD.

THEFT - LICENSE PLATES — 508 N. COLORADO ST.

THEFT - LICENSE PLATES — 700 E. GEORGIA AVE.

ADMIN - UNASSIGNED INCIDENT — E. DENVER AVE.

ADMIN - UNASSIGNED INCIDENT

— BLAZE TRAIL RD.

CRIMINAL TRESPASS: FIRST DEGREE - VEHICLE — 501 E. GEORGIA AVE.

DISTURBING THE PEACE — 600 N. COLORADO ST.

CRIMINAL TRESPASS: FIRST DEGREE - VEHICLE — 720 ESCALANTE DR.

THEFT: INTENDS TO PERMANENTLY DEPRIVE — 400 E. OHIO AVE.

THEFT: INTENDS TO PERMANENTLY DEPRIVE — 500 E. GOTHIC AVE.

THEFT: INTENDS TO PERMANENTLY DEPRIVE — 500 E. GOTHIC AVE.

THEFT: INTENDS TO PERMANENTLY DEPRIVE — 500 E. GOTHIC AVE.

FEBRUARY 9

TRAFFIC - NPOI — N. 11TH ST.

TRAFFIC - DUS HTO — 38000 W. HWY. 50

GUNNISON COUNTY SHERIFF’S REPORT

FEBRUARY 4

- Harassment report - Information report – paper service

- Information report – welfare check

- Agency assist to Colorado State Patrol – car vs deer

FEBRUARY 7

- Traffic infraction – speeding - Assault – 2nd degree

- Information report – trespassing

FEBRUARY 8

- Information report – structure fire - Agency assist to Mt. Crested Butte Police Department

FEBRUARY 10

- Agency assist to Colorado State Patrol – cold hit and run

- Agency assist to Gunnison Police Department – dispute - Information report – unattended death

MONDAY: 1-4 p.m.

WEDNESDAY: 1-7 p.m.

THURSDAY: 10 a.m - 2 p.m.

DERMATOLOGY SERVICES

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

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

• Skin Cancer Treatment: Early detection and Mohs surgery.

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

• Cosmetic Services: Botox® injections.

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

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

• Gunnison Valley Orthopedics in Crested Butte: Tuesdays

more information or to schedule an appointment, call

MOUNTAIN CLINIC

The only state licensed emergency center and certified urgent care provider on the mountain. Located at the base of the Silver Queen Lift.

Mountain Clinic | 970-641-3927 12 Snowmass Rd., Axtell 100 Mt. Crested Butte, CO 81225

URGENT CARE CLINIC

O ering convenient care for minor injuries and illnesses that can’t wait for a doctor’s appointment. No appointment necessary and open seven days a week.

Urgent Care | 970-648-7105 707 North Iowa St. Gunnison, CO 81230

EMERGENCY DEPARTMENT

Our Emergency Department (ED) is a fully-sta ed eight bed ED which provides emergency care 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. Care by Board Certified Emergency Physicians and nursing sta who are either certified in emergency nursing or hold advanced degrees. Emergency Department 711 North Taylor St. Gunnison, CO 81230

Your Health System

We received the American Heart Association’s Get With The Guidelines® - Stroke Silver quality achievement award which recognizes our commitment to ensuring stroke patients receive the most appropriate treatment based on nationally recognized, research-based guidelines.

A friendship that spanned oceans

Gunnison woman meets near 30-year pen pal in Turkey

Abby Harrison Times Staff Writer

The woman was surrounded by commuter chatter spoken in a language she did not understand, which spurred her to walk faster through the evening crowd at Budapest’s Kelenföld railway station. Katy Murtaugh was in search of a woman she’d never met, but whose mannerisms, unique gait and family she’d been eager to get to know for years.

When Murtaugh found this woman, she hastened toward her and they embraced. One cried, the other stood paralyzed and in shock, unable to fully grasp the emotions running through her. Her only thought was, “Oh my God, oh my God, I can touch you!”

Amid the thousands of private lives jostling through the railway station that night, Murtaugh and Sanal Taskinli were insulated in their own world: one of friendship sustained by decades of letters and calls, now made physical on a fall evening in September of 2024. Murtaugh, a Gunnison native, had traveled from Gunnison to Budapest to meet her pen pal of almost 30 years.

“Friendships are very important for me, and I know they are Pen pals B2

Sanal Taskinli and Katy Murtaugh take a selfie on a trip abroad in 2024. (Courtesy Katy Murtaugh)

Gunnison local Murtaugh and Taskinli of Turkey sent hand-written letters back and forth during their youth.

for Katy as well. I care for my friends always,” Taskinli said. “We made such an effort to keep each other in our lives for many years. But also, we were interesting to each other, someone on the other edge of the world.”

“I had to make it happen to go meet her … I don’t want to live to be 90, and I haven’t met her.”

Katy Murtaugh

Pen pal

Their friendship dates back to the late 90s, when Murtaugh was in Yvette Whitley’s seventh grade social studies class at Gunnison Middle School. As part of a class project, Whitley asked Murtaugh if she wanted a pen pal in Turkey. Over 6,000 miles away, Taskinli, who attended an English-speaking school in the city of Akhisar was asked the very same thing: to take on a mystery friend, sight unseen.

The letter writing quickly outgrew its school-time prov-

enance for both girls. They sent letters nearly every month, exhilarated by the promise of a reply. Taskinli recalled running along the streets of Akhisar, the same ones trod by trade merchants during the Roman, and later Ottoman, empires, to the post office. She was eager to see if her family’s small mailbox might contain an envelope with American post markings. Murtaugh, thumbing through a binder of Taskinli’s old letters, pointed to the Turkish postage with a similar sense of wonder, at the fact that this message had traveled across two oceans to reach her.

“It was like I could tell her anything … It was easy to talk to her, and I felt like she could easily talk to me. We had that close connection that we've always had, even though we were million miles apart,” Murtaugh said.

None of the dramas of girlhood proved too trivial for the young writers. On stationery decorated with cartoon dolls, beach scenes and flowers, they wrote “little diaries,” Taskinli said, of cute boys at school, the outcome of a tennis tournament or the parental mandate to tidy one’s room. Over the years, correspondence moved to email, Facebook messenger, WhatsApp and voice calls, and evolved to include marriage, children, illness and lost jobs.

For each, the correspondence was about both learning and sharing. Taskinli and Murtaugh knew little of the other’s home-

Love is in the air

town, or the regions’ politics, social customs and weather. Taskinli read of Murtaugh regular skiing adventures while living in an arid town with an average year-round temperature in the 40s. She saw snow twice in Akhisar, but it never stuck to the ground, she said. When Murtaugh made it to Turkey last year, she was eager to learn how things like elections and the health care system worked.

“She was sending me photos, and it was a totally different type of life,” Taskinli said.

The friends planned to meet in New York City in 2020, but the trip was canceled when Covid lockdowns began. It would have been Taskinli’s first trip to the United States. She was excited for her first Broadway show and to enjoy the club scene. In subsequent years, reunion plans fell to the wayside, but after Murtaugh grandmother passed away, she felt a renewed urge to see her longtime friend.

“I had to make it happen to go meet her … I don’t want to live to be 90, and I haven't met her,” Murtaugh said.

She made the trip in the fall of 2024, which included six days in Hungary’s capital city. The women had met only days before but they traveled with the comfort of family, Taskinli said, without awkwardness or stifled conversation.

They strolled along the Danube River and looked south toward Buda Castle,

the historical palace complex of the Hungarian kings of Budapest, first completed in 1265. Murtaugh recalled the shimmering light cast from the Hungarian Parliament Building at night onto the surface of the Danube. Days later, they shared more of their lives, stretched out on the shores of Lake Venice, tired from kayaking.

“Our souls were connected, it was just the bodies which didn't meet. From the first moment, I was really very comfortable with her, talking to her, or doing my usual things at home around her,” Taskinli said.

Murtaugh jotted it all down in her journal, including her other stops in Munich, Prague, Vienna, and Split. The pair visited Florence and Modena where they went to the Enzo Ferrari Museum and saw generations of the Italian-made automobile.

In Modena, she also bought a red leather jacket from a handsome merchant. Taskinli urged her to go back, just to say “thank you.”

Now back in their respective countries, the friendship is back to its usual format: messaging. They still send a Christmas package each year without fail, filled with chocolates, tea and local crafts. Taskinli said that when her son is older, she would like to visit Murtaugh in Gunnison, whose mountains and snow she only knows through postcards.

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

Members of the Resiliency Project festooned Main Street with colorful paper hearts on Feb. 11, just in time for Valentine’s Day. Each red heart showcased drawings and messages about each author’s favorite things about Gunnison. Lake preschool and kindergarten students, Western Colorado University students, Gunnison Senior Care Center residents and other community members contributed hearts to the project. The Resiliency Project is a joint effort of the City of Gunnison, the Gunnison Country Chamber of Commerce and the Gunnison Community Foundation.

(Photos by Mariel Wiley)

The pair’s many letters throughout the years included photographs, magazine clippings and drawings.

PEOPLE & HAPPENINGS

Melanin Mountain Project

Melanin Mountain Project would like to invite everyone to celebrate Black stories, voices and visionaries this month by joining us for our fourth annual Film Festival. This year, we are presenting six films at the Majestic Theater promised to inspire, uplift, challenge and entertain. We'll kick off with Annie on Feb. 23 at 4 p.m. and continue through the end of February. Trailer and full schedule at melaninmountainproject.com.

Down Valley Draw Club

Join us Feb. 13 from 6:30-9 p.m. at the Double Shot Cyclery

A free, informal, all-level creative meet up in and around Gunnison CO. BYO-everything and remember to tip your bartender!

Summer reading program

Join The American Association of University Women and members of the community on Feb. 22 from 10-noon at the Library, 1 Quartz Street, Gunnison for a fundraiser supporting the

Summer Reading Program at the Gunnison and Crested Butte Libraries which encourages students read and get involved with family activities during the summer. For more information call Ronda at 970.641.2638.

Western ski weekend

Join us on March 1-2 for the Western ski weekend. This event is open to the entire Western communiity-alumni, parents and families and friends of Western are welcome.

Registration is $10. March 1 is Mountaineers Day on the Mountain at CBMR and AprèsSki Party at The Elevation Hotel Matchstick Lounge & Billy Barr and March 2 is Breakfast in the Backcountry @ the Crested Butte Nordic yurt.

Cupid's Comedy Death Match

Join Subject2Change this weekend at the Mallardi for Cupid's Comedy Death Match!! Our hilarious improv troupe will take on all of love's themes while competing to the death... wait it's to the death?... I don't know, you'll have to come to find out. That's the 14-15 at 7

GUNNISON ARTS CENTER BRIEFS

African drumming workshop

Join us Feb. 13 for a fun and engaging drumming class led by Fara Tolno from Guinea, West Africa. In this all-levels session, you'll experience the rhythms of hand drumming while learning about West African culture. Drums provided or bring your own. Ages 7+ (kids under 7 must be accompanied by an adult). Youth Session: 4:30-5:15 p.m. | Adult Session: 5:30-6:30 p.m.

Big + Little Art

Join us Saturdays, February 15 - March 8 from 9:30-10:30

a.m. for a creative, bonding experience in our Big + Little class with Kit Wijkowski! Explore art and movement through painting, sculpture, music, and dance while fostering creativity and connection. Ages 2-5.

Gemstone wire wrap rings

Join us Feb. 15 for a handson jewelry class with Anette Akelson! Learn to create beautiful gemstone wire wrap rings in this beginner-friendly workshop. Perfect for both new crafters and experienced makers. Ages 8+ (under 12 must have an adult present). Bring the whole

CB CENTER FOR THE ARTS BRIEFS

Toast your hot toddy

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

The Motet

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

p.m. at the Mallardi Cabaret Theatre. Tickets at cbmountaintheatre.org.

Barbara East painting unveiling

Join the Gunnison Valley Cattlewomen, the Gunnison County Stockgrowers' Association and the Gunnison County CSU Extension Office for an unveiling of Barbara East's painting, "For Many Generations to Come". The afternoon will feature an exploration of the historical significance of the painting with the artist, Barbara East. The unveiling will be held on Feb. 23 at 1:30 p.m. at the Gunnison County Public Library.

NOW- FEBRUARY 21ST

YOUR STORIES. YOUR STATION!

family for a fun, creative experience. Youth Session: 11:30-1:30 p.m. | Adult Session: 4-6 p.m.

Mini art camp

Join us Feb. 17-18 from 9-11:30 a.m. for a fun-filled art camp for 3rd - 5th graders. Campers will explore drawing, painting, ceramics and mixed media while learning new techniques and expressing their unique styles. Each day includes guided projects, games, and lots of creative time!

BruHaus + Crooked Stave Brewing Co.

Join the Wine + Food Festival and BruHaus Feb. 15 at 6 p.m. for an exclusive beer dinner featuring Crooked Stave brewery. Indulge in a thoughtfully crafted prix fixe menu, where each course is expertly paired with Crooked Stave’s innovative brews, celebrating bold flavors and creative brewing techniques. A perfect evening for beer and food enthusiasts alike! The cost is $95.

Kissidugu kids camp

Give your kids a fun and fulfilling February break with immersion in an engaging and dynamic afternoon cultural arts camp on Feb. 17-20 from 12-3:30 p.m. This camp will be targeted to ages 8-12 and will explore the art of storytelling through music, dance and

stories on stage. Each day will include a variety of themes and music and movement classes taught by Angela Carroll and Fara Tolno, as well as arts, crafts and games. Drums and any other instruments will be provided for use. The cost is $135 for all four days or $75 for two days.

Après Jazz: Gypsy Jazz Social Club

Cap off a great day on the slopes or join us after work for some casual jazz in the KinderPadon Gallery at the Center for the Arts. On Feb. 18 at 5 p.m. the local Gypsy Jazz Social club will treat everyone to their mysterious yet strangely familiar blend of jazz and folk music.

KBUT’s Winter Pledge Drive is here! Help us reach our $75,000 goal and Donate today to become a member of YOUR local community radio station. Call us at 970.349.7444 or visit kbut.org to show your support.

ALL DONORS ENTERED TO WIN THE GRAND PRIZE:

• (1) Trip to Nepal; Everest Region 3 Pass Trek

• Oct 26th-Nov 15th

• International Flight NOT included

• As described:Nepal 21-day Three Pass | Karuna Ventures

• Trip is transferable. Details and restrictions listed on website

• $4,600 total value (no cash value & not for resale)

Courtesy of the Karuna Project: Reconnecting Humans to Humanity

Five GHS wrestlers crowned regional champs

Cowboys set program record and fly into state tournament

Alex McCrindle Times Sports Editor

The Cowboy wrestling teams found their rhythm at the regional championships on Feb. 7 and 8. For the first time in program history, five GHS grapplers took home a first-place medal. Now, eight Cowboys, fueled with confidence, will charge into the state championships in Denver this weekend.

“It just gives me chills thinking about regionals,” said boys Head Coach Mike Seijo. “We took only six guys, and still finished fifth as a team. That’s remarkable and shows that even though we don’t have a lot of guys, the ones competing are tougher than nails.”

Uhrig wrestles Gracie

Titans hockey ends on high note

Spann hattrick highlights final home game

Alex

McCrindle Times Sports Editor

Although missing out on postseason qualification, the Crested Butte hockey team finished the season with statement victories against Woodland Park and Aspen, proving the program has a bright future ahead.

The Titans finished with a 6-13 overall record, and sit sixth in the stacked, 4A Mountain League with a record of 5-9.

“The leadership of my seniors Carson Zummach, Marshall Spann and Matej Voldan had a lot to do with keeping the locker room fresh and as steady as possible,” said Head Coach Joey Otsuka. “They had a lot to do

with our success in the last three weeks. We were finally able to have identities for different lines, and the players on those lines were buying into their roles.”

The boys put together a barnburning, 7-0 shutout over the Woodland Park Panthers in the final home game of the season on Feb. 7. Spann dazzled the senior-night crowd with a hattrick in his final outing on the Jorgensen ice. The senior captain scored two in the first period, assisted by Mason Weitman and Luke Hartigan, and added a third in the second period. Hartigan, Tanner Maltby, Zander Zacher and Ethan Suazo joined him on the scoresheet in the 7-0 thumping.

The Titans maintained their blistering offense the following day, away against the Aspen Skiers on Feb. 8. Hartigan and Suazo hushed the home crowd within minutes, each beating the

goaltender in the first period. Armed with a 2-0 lead, the Titans continued to pepper the Skiers net into the second period. Max Dukeman and Jake White scored and assisted back-to-back goals in the period, and senior Voldan put the icing on the cake with a Suazo-assisted goal to lead 5-0.

The Skiers pulled one back minutes before the second intermission, but Charlie Reamer and Suazo added two more for good measure. The Titans finished their season with a 7-1 battering over their northern rivals.

Amidst the offensive revival, Otsuka said he was most impressed with the boys’ defensive workrate.

“Players often focus on offense, because it's the sparkly thing that makes you look cool,” Otsuka said. “But no one cheers Tanner Maltby when he’s absolutely hounding the offense on the other team. It’s guys like

Cobin O’Connor that understand the defensive nature of the game. Those are the lessons you learn when you start on line three or line four. Finally, at the end of the season, the players started to understand that.”

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

Roxie

Varner of Meeker in the 140-lbs semifinal. (Photos by Mariel Wiley)

(Alex

Luke Hartigan flies into the attacking third against Caprock Academy on Jan. 10. (Photo by Mariel Wiley)

Wrestling B6

Mountaineers cage Grizzlies on senior night

Western ends Adams State’s two-year win streak

Gregg Petcoff Special to the Times

The No. 13 Mountaineer wrestling team gave its seniors a proper send off on Feb. 7, earning a 30-14 Rocky Mountain Athletic Conference win over visiting Adams State University.

Prior to the start of the dual, the team recognized five wrestlers who will be graduating from the program at the end of the season. One by one, Pratt Williams, Lawson Hayman, Dean Noble, Cole Hernandez and Cole Gray joined their coaches on the mat.

Trailing 14-9 after the 157lbs match, the Mountaineers began their finishing sprint with Walker Heckendorf's 8-3 decision at 165-lbs. Heckendorf notched two takedowns in the first period, and surrendered only one escape and an early third-period reversal. Hernandez, ranked No. 1 in the nation, took a 15-3 advan-

tage over Adam State’s Dallas Porter right from the start. Hernandez had the starting choice in the second and picked neutral. Less than a minute later, he finished off an 18-3 technical fall that gave Western its first lead of the night, 17-14.

Gray was commanding in his match at 184-lbs. He scored a takedown and gave up an escape in both the first and second periods to head into the third leading 6-2. The senior earned an escape for a 5-point lead, and then added another takedown leading to his 11-2 major decision.

Even more dominant was Sage Harrison at 197-lbs. A mid-period takedown in the first gave Harrison an 11-0 lead into the second. Harrison took Adam State’s Josh Coon to the mat at the start of the second. Soon after, he rolled Coon to his back and completed the Mountaineers' second pin of the night.

Riley Butt, at 285-lbs, finished off the string of wins with a 10-4 decision. Ahead 3-1 after the first and 6-2 after the second, Butt allowed an escape to start the third and then added another takedown to light up the raucous crowd.

Western's initial pin in the dual came early when Devin Gomez recorded one in his bout at 133-lbs. Gomez trailed 6-2 after the first, but rallied in the second to take a 9-7 lead. At the start of the third, Gomez quickly got Romero on his back for a fall at the 5:30 mark —tying the team score at 6-6.

Adams State went back in front with a 15-2 major at 141-lbs, but Noble pulled the Mountaineers to within a point in the 149-lbs match. Noble, No. 3 in the nation, piled up riding time with a first period takedown and eventually battled his way to a 7-5 decision over Kieran Thompson.

The Western victory ended the Grizzlies’ two-year win streak, and improved the Mountaineers' record against Adams State to 14-6.

(Gregg Petcoff is the assistant athletics director for communications at Western Colorado University and can be reached at gpetcoff@western.edu.)

Despite a number of late injuries and declining results at the end of the regular season, the GHS boys found their groove at the right time. Facing off against 12 rival 3A schools in Grand Valley, the Cowboys made their presence known from the beginning.

Damyon Funk kickstarted the team with a pin and technical fall in his opening matches in the 113-lbs bracket. The senior then faced Hunter Mars of Bayfield in the championship, an opponent who defeated Funk earlier this season. Despite the previous defeat and a lingering shoulder injury, the senior won on a 6-3 decision to claim his first regional championship.

“I was so proud of Damyon for avenging that win against his regional opponent, and coming back from his injury,” Seijo said. “Winning a close match like that was huge for his confidence.”

Cody Casebolt also hit the mats in flying form. The junior overpowered his first two opponents in the 126-lbs division, earning back-to-back pins. Casebolt won by forfeit in the quarterfinal, and forced a lengthy break ahead of the

championship. After his long wait on the sidelines, the junior faced off against crowd favorite Jaysen Skeen of Grand Valley. Casebolt silenced the home fans with an early takedown, and traded escapes to hold the lead. It ended in a 4-1 decision for the Cowboy — marking his second consecutive regional championship.

Brock Fry earned his first regional title after sweeping through the quarterfinal and semifinal with consecutive early pins. The senior then matched up with Tanner Hoover of Middle Park in the championship, and despite a slow start, won the 132-lbs division on a 13-8 decision. The victory marked Fry’s first regional title after he took fourth in 2024.

Sophomore Zach Benson added a fourth, first-place win to the GHS tally in the 138-lbs bracket. The underclassman, boasting a 39-4 overall record his second year, continued to lead from the top of the podium. Benson coasted through his opening matches, and won by technical fall over Logan Valencia of Bayfield in the final. After taking second place his freshman year, the victory marked his first regional championship.

Freshman Lincoln Hemmert also shined in his debut sea -

son, and earned a fourth-place finish and state qualification.

While the boys battled in Grand Valley, the girls enjoyed the luxury of home-mat advantage. Sixteen rival 4A schools piled into the GHS campus over the weekend, yet still, the small but fearsome Cowboy team left its mark.

Sophomore star Roxie Uhrig came, saw and conquered amidst the cheers of her home student section. Uhrig toppled her first two opponents, and then defeated Amanaki George of Moffat County by technical fall in the 140-lbs championship. The victory marked Uhrig’s second consecutive regional title after her freshman win in 2024.

Additionally, Evelyn Cope finished second place for the Cowboys in the 130-lbs division, and scrappy senior Isabelle Crown took third in the 105-lbs bracket. The three girls qualified for state, and will chase glory alongside the boys team at the Ball Arena on Feb. 13-15.

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

Grady Buckhanan signs for Minot State

After leading the GHS football team in total yardage this fall, star running back Grady Buckhanan signed a letter of intent to play with the Minot State Beavers, based in North Dakota. Family, friends and coaches, decked out in red and green, showed their support at the

baseball team this spring, before making the jump to collegiate athletics and joining his older brother,

GHS auditorium on Feb. 5. Buckhanan plans to lead the Cowboy

Sam, on the Beavers squad.

(Photo by Alex McCrindle)

Evelyn Cope greets Miriam Jimenez of Moffat County after winning the semifinal.

Six Points All Stars shred the slopes

The Six Points All Stars Special Olympics team tore up the tracks at the Western Region Winter Games at Sunlight Resort in Glenwood Springs on Jan. 31. Competing in both Nordic and alpine events, the All Stars led from the front over the course of the day. On the skinny skis, Jeffrey Crawley took first place in the 500-meter, and second in the 100-meter and 2.5K. Ricky Glatiotis sealed three, firstplace runs in the 500-meter, 200-meter and 50-meter Nordic races. Johnny Iniego also joined the top of the podium in the 5K and 2.5K races. Tony Haus took the only alpine ribbon of the day, finishing first and second in downhill races.

Ricky Glatiotis celebrates atop the podium. (Courtesy Brian Smith/Six Points)

Eric Fullmer and Jade Hanna receive their ribbons.

Jeffrey Crawley and Kiko Surillo warm up after long races on the slopes.

‘Grateful

for Gunni Gals’

Throughout March, the Gunnison Country Chamber of Commerce will celebrate Women’s History Month with a “Grateful for Gunni Gals” campaign. Community members can nominate a woman in their lives who has inspired them, who contributes to the health and wellbeing of others or is an “unsung hero.” Each nominee will be included in the campaign and receive a ticket for the upcoming fashion show celebration on March 27. To submit a nomination, scan the QR code below.

At Gunnison Valley Orthopedics, our Total Joint Program offers shoulder, hip, ankle and knee replacements to help you regain your active lifestyle.

REDISCOVER YOUR FREEDOM:

Robotic Precision: Our surgeons use Zimmer Biomet’s ROSA® Knee System for robotic-assisted knee replacements, ensuring optimal implant positioning and personalized care.

Tailored Treatment: We replace diseased knee bone with a prosthesis that mimics natural movement, helping you enjoy a pain-free, active life.

SCHEDULE YOUR CONSULTATION AT 970-641-8899

Did You Know? Chronic absence has many negative consequences for students, parents, schools, and communities. By high school, it can put students off track for graduation

Grateful for Gunni Gals Women's History Month NOMINATIONS

During the month of March - Women's History Month - the Gunnison Chamber is celebrating our amazing community of Valley WOMEN.

We are seeking your nominations during February to honor a special someone to be included in the Chambers public recognitions in March!

To learn all about this fun new campaign and how to participate follow the link HERE: https://form jotform com/250196975865070 or this code!

¿Sabías que...? El ausentismo crónico tiene muchas consecuencias negativas para los estudiantes, padres de familia, las escuelas y las comunidades Las ausencias crónicas pueden desviar a los

(Courtesy Celeste Helminski/Gunnison Country Chamber of Commerce)