2011 Grand Valley Echo December by Alyssa Onmach

• Serving the Grand Valley since 2008 •

Providing a voice for community-based organizations and individuals that enrich the life of the Grand Valley Volume 4 Number 3

INSIDE

Season’s Greetings FREE

Mid-December 2011/Mid-January 2012

CARE page 3

Wood stoves page 5

The Living Nativity held on Dec. 2 in Beasley Park in downtown Parachute reflected the meaning of the season with feelings of peace on Earth, good will to men. See story, page 20. Photo courtesy of Charlie Hornick

Pickleball page 10

BLM extends comment period for Draft Colorado River Valley Resource Management Plan By David Boyd, Public Affairs Specialist, Bureau of Land Management

Our Schools pages 17-19

Around the Valley page 22

“Our goal from the beginning of this comment period has been to get specific, detailed comments from the public about our draft alternatives,” said Acting Colorado River Valley Field Manager Karl Mendonca. SILT – The Bureau of Land Management “Several agencies and organizations had (BLM) is extending the public comment requested additional time in order to thorperiod on its Draft Colorado River Valley oughly review the draft and provide Resource Management Plan (RMP) until specific comments.” Jan. 17. “Our goal from the beginning of this BLM will use public comments to The plan will provide a framework help develop a Proposed RMP/Final to guide subsequent management decicomment period has been to get EIS for each of these field offices, sions on 505,000 surface acres and specific, detailed comments from the which are scheduled for release in 707,000 acres of subsurface mineral estate administered by the BLM Field public about our draft alternatives.” 2012. For additional information includOffice in Eagle, Garfield, Mesa, Pitkin, - Karl Mendonca ing how to provide comments or Rio Blanco and Routt counties for the obtain a copy of the either Draft next several decades. visit http://www.blm.gov The Draft RMP for the Colorado River recreation, travel management, energy RMP, Valley Field Office was released for a 90-day development, resource protection, wildlife /co/st/en/BLM_Programs/land_use_planpublic comment period on Sept. 15. This habitat, special designations, grazing, and ning/rmp/kfo-gsfo.html. comment period was set to end Dec. 15. realty actions. BLM opted to extend the deadline until Jan. 17 to give the public additional time to review the detailed, complex draft. The Draft RMP analyzes four alternatives covering all aspects of BLM land and mineral management within the Colorado River Valley Field Office boundaries, including

Page 2, GRAND VALLEY ECHO • Mid-December 2011 / Mid-January 2012

LETTERS TO THE ECHO Send us a letter. Got something on your mind? We’ve expanded our word-count limit to 500 words or less for Letters to the Echo to give you plenty of space to express yourselves. The Echo welcomes your input, opinions, thanks and whatever else you’d like to share with our readers, provided it’s written in a respectful, civil way. (Please, no unsubstantiated attacks, etc.) The Echo reserves the right to edit and proofread letters. Send your words to The Grand Valley Echo, gve@crystalvalleyecho.com, or 274 Redstone Blvd., Redstone, CO 81623. Please be sure to include your name, title if necessary, and where you live. Thanks.

Whoa on park

seem to be rather natural to Colorado, and we can think of worse things to look at.

Dear Echo: This letter concerns a park that’s being proposed to be built next to the Grand Valley Middle School.

Why the rush toward a new park facility in Battlement? The parks and other open spaces we have are under used. How this expensive venture is going to be fully funded and maintained has not been fully disclosed. Property owners are well within their rights to ask, "Why now in this economy?" Assessments to homeowners will surely come down the road when donations run out. We think it makes more sense to pull back and enhance what we already have. The Battlement Mesa Activity Center has plenty of surrounding space for added features. Many residents would prefer to see the heating system for the swimming pool upgraded first. The water temperature is not comfortable and draws few people. This park (put on paper without a lot of public input) is not necessary. As for rocks, there is also a large pile next to Kum ‘n’ Go. What are the Battlement Mesa Company and Common Ground proposing for the eyesore? Rocks do

Carol Abbott, Dave G. Devanney, Garry Evenson, Joanne H. Mayo Parachute and Battlement Mesa

Thank you for all the help at the Craft Fair Dear Echo: Wow, what a great day of shopping! On behalf of the 29th annual Craft Fair, thank you to all the locals who came out to support this annual event. Thank you to the Grand Valley High School for use of the two gyms, hallways and lobby area. Thank you to the Kiwanis Club of Grand Valley/Parachute for their assistance in parking all the vehicles. And a huge thanks to the Grand Valley Wrestling Team and Coach Rick for their participation in helping the vendors load and unload their precious wares. Mary Anderson Executive Director Parachute/Battlement Mesa Park and Recreation District Parachute

y’s Restau m m r 285-9711 an o h t S Inside Phillip’s 66 in Parachute

Proud to sponsor the STUDENT OF THE MONTH ZACH KELLY "Zach is an 8th grade student at the Grand Valley Middle School. He was chosen Student of the Month for Music as Zach is playing his tuba at a 10th grade level. He also participates in football, basketball and track. Zach exhibits great effort in all phases of his life. He is a great model for others in terms of work ethic, goal setting, and respectful attitude. Congratulations Zach." Jory Sorensen, Principal Grand Valley Middle School

echonewspapers.com Thank you to this month’s contributors: All copy submitted to The Grand Valley Echo will be edited and reviewed by our staff for style, grammar and content. The Grand Valley Echo reserves the right to refuse publication of any submitted material that does not meet the publisher’s standard for a positive, informative, educational community newspaper.

David Boyd, Charlie Hornick, Barbara Pavlin, Carrie Godes, Garfield County, Debra Trujillo, Doug Straw, M.E. Denomy, Jack Elsea,

MISSION STATEMENT To provide a voice for local schools, nonprofit groups and civic organizations; to bring attention to the individuals and local businesses that are the fabric of the Grand Valley region; to contribute to the vitality of our small town life. The Grand Valley Echo is published monthly, and is distributed throughout Battlement Mesa and Parachute. Subscriptions are available for a $35 annual fee.

Anne Huber, Dick Ciprich, Mary Anderson, PUBLISHER/DESIGNER ALYSSA OHNMACHT EDITOR CARRIE CLICK ADVERTISING SALES BARBARA PAVLIN

285-7634 DISTRIBUTION/CIRCULATION STEVE PAVLIN Dawn Distribution • 963-0874

274 REDSTONE BLVD., REDSTONE, COLORADO 81623 970-963-2373 • gve@crystalvalleyecho.com

John Michaelis, Vina Klahn, Betsy Leonard, Rob Ferguson, Kathy Germano, Annick Pruett, Dr. Carol Lybrook, Sarah Hunter, Martha Fredendall, Roberta McGowan, Mitzi Burkhart, Keith Lammey, David Walck, Ken Haptonstall, Tarianna Lawrence, Areemio Baltazar, Ceara Friel, Dustin Weist, Jazmin McFarland, Rebecca Ruland, Brian Berg, Veronica Duran, Jeanne Miles

GRAND VALLEY ECHO • Mid-December 2011 / Mid-January 2012, Page 3

N O N P R O F I T S

Mt. Callahan Community Fund grant award recipients included front row, from left, Judi Hayward of the Grand Valley Historical Society and Betty Jo Lindauer of the Grand Valley Education Foundation; back row, Anne Huber of KSUN Radio, Robin Tobin of YouthZone, Rick Blauvelt of the Roaring Fork Valley Early Learning Fund, Mike Powell of LIFT-UP and Julie Olson of the Advocate Safehouse Project.

CARE offering ways to give and receive in Battlement Mesa Animal care and support offered locally By Carrie Click, Echo editor Colorado Animal Rescue (CARE) is one of several regional pet shelters that extend support and care to abandoned and owned animals. Now, the organization is offering ways for the pet-owning public to receive help from CARE in Battlement Mesa. Beginning this January, CARE is adding Battlement Mesa to its CARE Food Bank distribution schedule. Each month, winter road conditions permitting, CARE will distribute dog and cat food if you are having difficulty providing adequate food to your animals due to economic challenges. And for those who’d like to help financially or through volunteer support, opportunities are available, too. “Volunteers are needed!” said Leslie Rockey, CARE director. “Please call CARE if you have

Maggie was adopted from CARE last year and is now enjoying a happy life and a full stomach with her new family. Photo by Carrie Click

even an hour or two a month to help with the Pet Food Bank.” Distribution times are from 8:30-8:45 a.m. in the Kum ‘n’ Go parking lot, at the corner of Tamarisk Trail and Stone Quarry Road on the following days: Jan. 7, Feb. 4, March 3, April 14, May 5, June 2, July 7, Aug. 4, Sept. 8, Oct. 6, Nov. 3,

and Dec. 1. The CARE Pet Food Bank was started in 2011 to assist pet owners in Garfield County and nearby communities in the Roaring Fork, Colorado River, and Crystal River valleys. Besides assisting with nutritional needs, CARE strives to provide pet owners with information about obtaining affordable medical and spay/neuter assistance. “Our goals are to prevent animals from being surrendered to local shelters because of economic reasons, to keep pets with their owners, and to keep our pets healthy and well fed,” said Leslie. The Pet Food Bank is entirely dependent on volunteers, donations of unopened containers of pet food (CARE also accepts kitty litter), and on the financial support of the community for purchasing pet food. Sponsorship opportunities are available and all donations are tax deductible. Contact CARE at 947-9173 and coloradoanimalrescue.org.

Photo by Jennifer Richardson

Mt. Callahan Community Fund awards grants By Barbara Pavlin, Co-Chair, Mt. Callahan Community Fund

The Mt. Callahan Community Fund held its annual Grant Presentation Ceremony on Dec. 6 at the Battlement Mesa Activity Center. Grants were awarded to the following local nonprofit organizations: • Advocate Safehouse Project • The Grand Valley Education Foundation • The Grand Valley Historical Society • K-SUN Community Radio • LIFT-UP • Roaring Fork Valley Early Learning Fund • YouthZone The funds were derived from earnings from the Mt. Callahan Fund Endowment Fund, which included a grant from the Town of Parachute and a generous donation from Wells Fargo Bank this year. Co-chairs Sara McCurdy and Barbara Pavlin presented checks to the grant recipients. Representatives of the receiving nonprofit organizations discussed their organizations and how the awarded funds will be used to benefit our community. The Mt. Callahan Community Fund is a fund of the Western Colorado Community Foundation located in Grand Junction with assets of close to $30 million. Since 2002, the Mt. Callahan Community Fund has been raising money through donations from individuals, businesses, and from various fundraising events for the purpose of awarding grants to deserving nonprofit organizations in Parachute and Battlement Mesa. All the funds raised stay in our community and are awarded to support all age groups from tots to seniors, helping to make our community a better place to live, work and play.

243 E. First Street Parachute, CO 81635

Craft Fair helpers

The Grand Valley High School Wrestling Team with Coach Rick Gallegos helped load and unload vendors' wares at the 29th annual 2011 Craft Fair at the high school on Nov. 19. More than 130 booths displayed holiday gift items to the hundreds of people who attended the fair. Proceeds benefit the Parachute/Battlement Mesa Park and Recreation District's programs.

Photo courtesy of Mary Anderson

Page 4, GRAND VALLEY ECHO • Mid-December 2011 / Mid-January 2012

GO GRAND VALLEY

Your calendar for goings on in and around Parachute and Battlement Mesa Help our calendar grow; let us know. Send public event items to gve@crystalvalleyecho.com. Be sure to include the five Ws (who, what, when, why and where), contact info, cost and anything else readers need to know. • Dec. 20: 12-2 p.m. Ladies Who Do Lunch Bunch feature “Redbird Christmas” by Fannie Flagg at the Parachute Branch Library. 285-9870.

• Jan. 10: 7 p.m. The Page Turners Book Club features “The Women” by T.C. Boyle at the Parachute Branch Library. Call Nancy Scott at 285-6159.

• Neighborhood Watch meets the second Tuesday of the month at 7 p.m. at Parachute Town Hall, 222 Grand Valley Way, Parachute. 285-7630.

• Dec. 20: Santa visits Mesa Vista Assisted Living Residence in Parachute. 285-1844.

• Jan.11: 10 a.m. Toddler Story Time is at the Parachute Branch Library. 285-9870.

• Dec. 21: 2:20-4 p.m. Anime Club for middle and high school students at the Parachute Branch Library. 2859870.

• Jan. 12: 10 a.m. Bilingual Story Time is being held today at the Parachute Branch Library. 285-9870.

• The Glenwood Springs Chapter of HEARTBEAT – Support for Survivors After Suicide – is open to anyone who has suffered the loss of a loved one through suicide – no matter how long ago. This peer group meets the second Tuesday of each month at 6:30 p.m. at the First United Methodist Church in Glenwood Springs. Use the Bethel Chapel entrance of the church, 824 Cooper Street. Call Pam Szedelyi, 945-1398, e-mail pamsz@sopris.net.

• Dec. 22: No Bilingual Story Time is being held today at the Parachute Branch Library. 285-9870.

• Jan. 12: 6 p.m. Learn the art of tatting with Dianne Dayhoff sponsored by Mesa Vista Assisted Living in Parachute. $10 plus supplies. 250-5548 to register.

• Dec. 23: 11 a.m. Ready to Read Story Time at the Parachute Branch Library. 285-9870.

• Jan. 13: 11 a.m. Ready to Read Story Time at the Parachute Branch Library. 285-9870.

• Dec. 24: Christmas Eve.

• Jan. 13: 6-10 p.m. Reel Readers featuring “Memoirs of a Geisha” at the Parachute Branch Library. 285-9870.

• Dec. 24: 2 p.m. The Parachute Branch Library closes at 2 p.m. in observance of Christmas Eve.

• Dec. 25: Merry Christmas!

• Jan. 14: 2-3 p.m. A computer class is being held through the Parachute Branch Library. 285-9870.

• Dec. 25-26: The Parachute Branch Library is closed for the Christmas holiday.

ONGOING

• Dec. 27: 2-3:30 p.m. “Techie” Tuesday for grades 5-8 at the Parachute Branch Library. 285-9870. • Dec. 28: 10 a.m. Toddler Story Time is at the Parachute Branch Library. 285-9870. • Dec. 29: No Bilingual Story Time is being held today at the Parachute Branch Library. 285-9870.

• Dec. 30: 11 a.m. Ready to Read Story Time at the Parachute Branch Library. 285-9870.

• Dec. 31: 10 a.m.-2 p.m. Vaccination clinic sponsored by Divide Creek Animal Hospital and the Garfield County Sheriff’s Department is at the animal hospital, 0471 County Rd. 311 in Silt for dogs and cats. $5/each vaccine; $25/each microchip. Call 945-0453 or 665-0200 for more information.

• Dec. 31: New Year’s Eve. • Jan. 1: Happy New Year! • Jan. 3: 10 a.m. An information session on how to volunteer with Literacy Outreach is being held at the Parachute Branch Library. Volunteers do not need to speak Spanish; just an ability to teach basic, fourth grade level literacy skills to adults. 945-5282. • Jan. 4: 10 a.m. Toddler Story Time is at the Parachute Branch Library. 285-9870. • Jan. 4: At lunchtime, BKS2U is at the Grand Valley High School. 285-9870. • Jan. 5: 10 a.m. Bilingual Story Time is being held today at the Parachute Branch Library. 285-9870. • Jan. 6: 11 a.m. Ready to Read Story Time at the Parachute Branch Library. 285-9870. • Jan. 7: 8:30-8:45 a.m. CARE Pet Food Bank distributes food to those needing help feeding their dogs and cats, at the Kum ‘n’ Go parking lot at Tamarisk Trail and Stone Quarry Road in Battlement Mesa. 947-9173. • Jan. 9: 10 a.m.-8 p.m. Make it Monday at the Parachute Branch Library. 285-9870. • Jan. 9: 10:30 a.m. Learn the art of tatting with Dianne Dayhoff sponsored by Mesa Vista Assisted Living in Parachute. $10 plus supplies. 250-5548 to register. • Jan. 10: 10 a.m. “Tips, Topics and Talks on Tuesday” is at the Grand Valley Fire Protection District Fire Station #1 on Stone Quarry Rd. Learn how to use a fire extinguisher, learn about the “Vial of Life” program and tour the fire station. 0124 Stone Quarry Rd, Battlement Mesa. 285-9119.

• Starting in the new year, the Battlement Mesa Company’s Community Coffee Talks will take place on a quarterly basis. The next gathering will be in March of 2012. Happy Holidays from the Battlement Mesa Company! • The Battlement Mesa Activity Center has a variety of exercise classes for preschoolers to seniors. Call Anne, 2859480.

• The second Tuesday or Wednesday of every month at 6:30 p.m., the Parachute/Battlement Mesa Park and Recreation District Board of Directors meets at the recreation district office, 259 Cardinal Way, Parachute, 2850388, parachutebattlementparkandrecreation.org. • The third Tuesday of every month at 9 a.m., the Battlement Mesa Service Association meets at the Battlement Mesa Activity Center. • Every Wednesday at 11 a.m. is Toddler Time, and every Friday at 11 a.m. is Story Time at the Parachute Library. Both open to young children. Call Michelle at 285-9870. • Every Wednesday at 11:30 a.m., the Parachute Valley Senior Center hosts a luncheon prepared by the Rifle Senior Center. $2.50 for those over 60. Reservations taken Mondays from 9 a.m.-12 p.m.; call 285-7216.

• Every Monday from 12:45-4 p.m., Party Bridge is held at the Battlement Mesa Activity Center. All levels welcome.

• The first and third Wednesday of every month at 3 p.m., the Battlement Mesa Architectural Committee meets at the Battlement Mesa Activity Center. Open to the public. 285-9432.

• The fourth Monday of every month, the Grand Valley Sew and Sew Quilters meet at 9:30 a.m. at the Battlement Mesa Schoolhouse. Call Ann Arrington at 285- 9757 or Mary Galterio at 285-0243 for more info.

• Every last Wednesday of the month from 5-6 p.m., an Alzheimer’s caregiver support group meets at Alpine Hospice, 1517 Blake Ave., Suite 100B in Glenwood. Andrea, 303-704-6377.

• The last Monday of the month, an Alzheimer’s caregiver support group meets from 10-11 a.m. at the Grand Valley United Methodist Church, 132 N. Parachute Ave., 800272-3900, 987-3184.

• Every Monday from 12-1 p.m. the Grand Valley United Methodist Church serves a {B} free soup lunch {EB} at the church at 132 Parachute Ave.

• The first Tuesday of every month at 6:30 p.m., the Grand Valley Citizens Alliance meets at the Rifle Branch Library community room. Leslie, 618-0890. • Every Tuesday at 7 a.m., the Kiwanis Club of Grand Valley/Parachute meets at the Community Room of the Parachute Branch Library, 244 Grand Valley Way, in Parachute. Coffee is at 7 a.m., program begins at 7:30 a.m. • Seniors age 60 and older and disabled of any age may ride The Traveler, a wheelchair-accessible van with doorto-door service from Parachute to Glenwood Springs and to various towns and locations in between in Garfield County. Suggested donation is $8 round trip. The Traveler also travels from Parachute to Grand Junction the second Thursday of the month. Donation is $20 round trip. Call 48 hours in advance for reservations and information at 625-1366. • The second Tuesday of every month at 3:30 p.m. the Battlement Mesa Service Association’s Oil and Gas Committee meets at the Battlement Mesa Activity Center. • The second Tuesday of each month from 10 a.m.-12 p.m., Tips, Topics, Talks on Tuesday is at the Parachute Valley Senior Center; men and women of all ages welcome. 540 N. Parachute, Parachute. • Grand Mesa Chorus rehearses every Tuesday from 6:309:30 p.m., at the Redlands United Methodist Church, 527 Village Way, Grand Junction. All women age 16 and older are welcome to audition. Call Shirley at 255-9419, grandmesachorus.org.

• Battlement Concerned Citizens meet the second and fourth Wednesdays of every month at 1:30 p.m. at the Battlement Mesa Activity Center to discuss issues of concern to the Battlement Mesa community. Open to the public. Dave, 285-2263 or Ron, 285-3085. • Every Thursday at 10 a.m. (except the first Thursday of the month), the Prayer Shawl Ministry meets at the Grand Valley United Methodist Church, 132 N. Parachute, Parachute. Call Sharon, 285-2318, or the church, 2859892, to join in. • Every Friday from 9-9:30 a.m. “Community Connections” hosts interviews with community members on KSUN 103.9 FM. • Every Saturday at 7 p.m., the Parachute Valley Senior Center hosts Bingo Night with cash prizes. Free hot dogs every third Saturday. 540 N. Parachute Ave., 285-1353.

UPCOMING • Jan. 24: 7-9 p.m. Battlement Concerned Citizens open forum at the Parachute Branch Library. Contact Dave Devanney, 285-2263. • Feb. 4: 8:30-8:45 a.m. CARE Pet Food Bank distributes food to those needing help feeding their dogs and cats, at the Kum ‘n’ Go parking lot at Tamarisk Trail and Stone Quarry Road in Battlement Mesa. 947-9173.

GRAND VALLEY ECHO • Mid-December 2011 / Mid-January 2012, Page 5

E N E R G Y

Garfield County exchanges old wood stoves with new high efficiency stoves By Carrie Godes, Garfield County Changing out one old wood stove with a newer, cleaner wood-burning stove reduces emissions by an average of 70 percent. That is equivalent to removing seven old diesel buses off the road. That is just one of the reasons that Garfield County Public Health is piloting a wood stove exchange program for Garfield County residents. Public Health is exchanging old inefficient wood stoves and replacing them with new EPA-certified efficient stoves, at no cost, to qualified participants. Public Health has already begun to swap out several stoves in Garfield County, but they are looking for more participants. “We are looking for low-income homeowners who use old wood stoves or fireplaces to heat their home,” says Paul Reaser, environmental health specialist for Garfield County. “The entire process is relatively quick and easy. As the cold weather sets in, we really hope we can give some people a better way to heat their homes.” “The process was wonderful,” said Eugene Diaz of Silt. Eugene and his wife Eva have lived in their Silt home for 61 years. “We already had a wood stove from years ago, but they came in and put in the new one according to code. They waived all the permit and inspection fees and we made out like a couple of bandits! The installation didn’t take more than an hour.” The health department received funds to run the wood stove exchange program through Colorado

Department of Public Health and Environment settlement and enforcement actions. The funding comes from fines received from violations of environmental laws and regulations. “There are a number of wood stove exchange programs running throughout the United States,” said Paul. “We know that wood smoke contains a number of pollutants that can be harmful to health. The smoke from stoves and fireplaces pollute the air, contributing to smog, and related health problems.” Wood smoke is a mixture of gases and fine particles. The particles can aggravate existing diseases, such as coronary artery disease, heart failure, asthma or chronic bronchitis and emphysema. The gases contain harmful pollutants such as polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons, benzene, and dioxin. No matter what type of wood stove used, Reaser suggests a few guidelines. “If people do heat their homes with wood they can also minimize their risks by using dry, clean wood that has been seasoned for six months,” he said. “Keep the area well ventilated when starting a fire, and close the dampers when the wood is well charred. It will produce more heat and use less wood. Also use smaller pieces of wood and never put anything else like magazines or garbage in a stove. Make sure you have a carbon monoxide detector set up in your home.” EPA studies show that an estimated 70 percent of smoke from chimneys can actually re-enter the home and other neighborhood dwellings. New stoves are

Eugene Diaz of Silt recently received a new efficient wood stove through a Garfield County program.

Photo courtesy of Carrie Godes

more air tight than older models helping to keep inside air cleaner. They also burn an estimated third less wood than older stoves and produce less buildup reducing the risk of house fires. “I’ve noticed that the new stove burns less wood. I’ve noticed how fast it heats up the place, very quickly,” said Eugene. “Eva likes it because I don’t have to go up on the roof to clean it as much because there isn’t as much creosote in the chimney.” The Public Health Department has funding to exchange 35 stoves. Participants must meet income guidelines, live in Garfield County, and be the homeowner. People interested in more information or applications for the program can contact Paul Reaser with Garfield County Public Health at 665-6381.

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Page 6, GRAND VALLEY ECHO • Mid-December 2011 / Mid-January 2012

Obituary

Battlement Concerned Citizens (BCC)

Joe Trujillo Dec. 4, 1925 – Nov. 18, 2011 Joe Trujillo, former resident of Rifle and Battlement Mesa, passed away at the Joni Fair Hospice House in Pueblo on Nov. 18 with his loving wife Joan, grandson, and granddaughter at his side. He was 85. Joe was born in Delta, Colo. to Nestor and Eleanor Trujillo Sr. On Sept. 14, 1947, Joe married Joan E. Audin in Paonia, Colo. They were married for 64 wonderful years. Joe was in the Marine Corps and served overseas during World War II. From 1961-1981, Joe was employed by City Market. After a 20-year retirement, Joe went back to work for Battlement Mesa from 1988-2008. He was a member of the Grand Valley United Methodist Church, Rifle Masons, and the Shriners. His hobbies included woodworking and spending precious times with his three great grandchildren who were the apples of his eyes. Joe was preceded in death by his parents, son Kevin Trujillo, daughter Shayne Trujillo (Boggs), brothers Monte and Pete Trujillo, and sister Florence McClaughy. Survivors include his wife Joan, son Bryan (Tina) Trujillo, daughter Debra Trujillo, and grandsons Darren (Myra) and Jamie (Heather) Trujillo, along with three great grandchildren Adam, Andrew, and Dru, sister June Booth and brother Nestor Trujillo Jr., and numerous nieces and nephews. Memorial services will be held on Jan. 14 at Grand Valley United Methodist Church with Pastor Robert Toll presiding. In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to Sangre De Cristo Hospice, Joni Fair Hospice House, 1107 Pueblo Blvd. Way, Pueblo, CO 81005.

GIVE THE GIFT OF CLEAN AIR THIS SEASON. Stuff your stockings with a FREE radon test kit from Garfield County Public Health. Living green starts from the ground up. Make sure the air in your home is healthy for your family to breathe. Test your home for Radon. Pick up your free radon test kit at Garfield County Public Health next to Valley View Hospital in Glenwood Springs, next to City Market in Rife, or by calling 970-625-5200. Visit www.garfield-county.com or epa.gov/radon

Invitation To A Community Open Forum BCC invites all Battlement Mesa residents to an open forum on January 24th to discuss the status of actions taken by BCC to protect our health and well being. BCC realizes that America needs the energy and all associated jobs, and desires to work together with all citizens, committees, and governing entities of Battlement Mesa, Garfield County, and Colorado to ensure that citizens, health, safety, property values, and quality of life are protected and sustained. When it was announced that Antero Resources would be drilling natural gas wells within the Battlement Mesa Planned Unit Development (PUD) many citizens became concerned about the impact to their health and safety, their homes, and their beautiful community. BCC was formed by citizens to investigate potential impacts if Antero were to drill within the PUD and what could be done to mitigate those impacts. BCC submitted a petition requesting a Health Impact Assessment (HIA) be conducted concerning the health implications of Antero’s drilling intentions. Garfield County contracted with the Colorado School of Public Health to conduct the assessment. First phases of the impact assessment were conducted and produced a draft document listing approximately seventy recommendations that should be implemented before and during any drilling activity. As stated above, BCC’s primary objective is to work with all concerned citizens, committees, and government entities to do everything feasible to preserve our wonderful quality of life here on Battlement Mesa. To further this objective BCC will hold a “Community Open Forum” for citizens to meet, discuss, and join them in this objective. Date and time follows:

DATE: TUESDAY, JANUARY 24, 2012 TIME: 7:00 - 9:00 PM PLACE: PARACHUTE BRANCH LIBRARY Refreshments will be provided, so skip dessert! Presentations and discussions will include: • Some of the important recommendations of the Health Impact Assessment • The process of Antero obtaining a “special use permit” (SUP) from Garfield County • The process of Antero obtaining approval of their “comprehensive drilling plan” (CDP) from the Colorado Oil and Gas Conservation Commission • Developments in legal representation

Each and every resident of Battlement Mesa is invited! For more information, please contact Dave Devanney • 285-2263

GRAND VALLEY ECHO • Mid-December 2011 / Mid-January 2012, Page 7

O I L BLM seeks public comment on local natural gas pipeline SILT – The Bureau of Land Management (BLM) is seeking public comments on a natural gas pipeline proposal that will go from an area south of Rifle to processing facilities in Parachute. Comments should be received by Jan. 20. Bargath LLC is proposing to construct the Kokopelli Phase II Pipeline that would be a buried 16-inch pipeline that would cross 22.3 miles from the Dry Hollow Compressor south of Silt to the Rulison Compressor near Anvil Points. Approximately 7.6 miles would be installed on BLM-managed lands, 0.9 miles on US Forest Service-managed lands, and 13.8 miles on private property. The pipeline would be bored under the Colorado River to avoid impacts to the riverbed, aquatic wildlife and the adjacent riparian ecosystem. Additionally, Williams Production RMT Company LLC is proposing to install two six-inch water lines along a 4.1 mile section of the proposed Kokopelli trench and an additional 0.6 miles of private land outside the trench. The water lines would provide water delivery and collection capabilities to gas fields in this area and reduce water truck traffic. The proposal and map are available on-line: http://www.blm.gov/co/st/en/fo/crvfo/GSFO_MasterPlansOf Development.html. Written comments and questions should be directed to Colorado River Valley Field Office at 2300 River Frontage Road, Silt, CO 81652. Electronic comments may be submitted to BLM_CO_SI_CRVFO_Webmail@blm.gov. Please be aware that your comments, including your name and address, may be made public at any time. – David Boyd, BLM

G A S

Fracking chemicals must be disclosed in Colorado Echo Staff Report

In an unprecedented ruling on Dec. 13, Colorado will now require that energy companies disclose the concentrations of chemicals used in the hydraulic fracturing process when extracting natural gas underground. The new rules go into effect this coming April. Drillers also will have to make public some information about chemicals considered trade secrets, and give 48 hours' notice before pumping the chemicals into the ground. There is a fear that these chemicals – kept secret since companies did not want to divulge what chemicals they use to other competitors in the industry – might be polluting and contaminating groundwater and harming air quality. It’s been reported that some fracking fluids might contain petroleum chemicals, alcohols, hydrochloric acid, diesel fuel, benzene and other chemicals commonly found in gasoline, among other substances. Colorado regulators unanimously approved the new rules Dec. 13. The rules are similar to those in a first-in-the-nation law that Texas regulators implemented Tuesday, but Colorado's go further by requiring the concentrations of chemicals to be disclosed. A story published Dec. 13 in the Glenwood Springs Post Independent, stated that Halliburton Co. and other drilling companies had opposed the rules, saying the chemicals were proprietary. But Jep Seman, an attorney for the Colorado Petroleum Association, said that the rules are good for the state and “workable” for the industry. The Post Independent story reported that the Environmental Protection Agency last week found a possible link between groundwater pollution and hydraulic fracturing beneath Pavillion, Wyo. The EPA found compounds likely associated with fracking chemicals in the groundwater beneath the small central Wyoming community where residents complain their well water smells like chemicals. Health officials last year advised residents not to drink their well water after the EPA found low levels of hydrocarbons. Companies have been fracking for decades, but as drilling expands to more populated areas, residents near wells are concerned about the effects on their health and drinking water. For more information on the new rules, go to fracfocus.org.

Page 8, GRAND VALLEY ECHO • Mid-December 2011 / Mid-January 2012

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LIFT-UP provided Thanksgiving dinner for more than 1,500 local families To donate or find out more about More giving planned for December’s holidays

LIFT-UP, contact 625-4496, liftup.org, or liftup@sopris.net.

By Doug Straw, LIFT-UP LIFT-UP distributed Thanksgiving meal assistance to more than 1,500 local families during the Thanksgiving holiday this year, a 30 percent increase over 2010. More than 6,000 people sat down to Thanksgiving dinner this year – roughly 10 percent of the population for the communities in which LIFT-UP operates – thanks to the generosity of the community. Registration figures included 135 families in Parachute. In addition, 403 families in Rifle received meals, along with 360 families in Glenwood Springs, 190 families in Basalt, 185 families in Carbondale, 100 families in New Castle, 59 families in Silt, and 52 families in Aspen. "About half of the food distributed was donated by the community from food drives and items brought into the food pantries,” said Jeffrene Fowler, LIFT-UP's services manager, “and half was purchased by LIFT-UP at Food Bank of the Rockies or at local grocery stores." The holiday meal assistance included traditional Thanksgiving menu items like

stuffing, potatoes, corn and green beans, and a $10 meat voucher that was redeemable at local City Markets and Clark's Market in Battlement Mesa. "I'm amazed and grateful to see how our community responds to the needs in our region, and I'm happy that LIFT-UP can serve as a channel of assistance to brighten the holiday season for neighbors in need," said LIFT-UP Executive Director Mike Powell. “It’s been a rough year for many of these folks. I want to thank all of the supporters and volunteers that help make this tremendous outreach possible." LIFT-UP is also distributing holiday meals in December in time for Christmas. The special holiday meal assistance is provided in addition to the regular services provided from LIFT-UP's seven area food pantries, which are serving an average of more than 2,000 people per month, and The Extended Table Soup Kitchen in Glenwood Springs that serves more than 1,100 meals per month. To donate or find out more about LIFT-UP, contact 625-4496, liftup.org, or liftup@sopris.net.

Shop locally and support your local chamber businesses! PARACHUTE RADIO SHACK 316 E 1st street next to Napa Auto Parts M-F 9 am – 6 pm and Sat 9am -4 pm

970-285-2111

The Colorado Heritage Group 73 Sipprelle Drive Suite J-1 Battlement Mesa ,CO 81635

MARY LEE MOHRLANG Cell (970) 216-5058 MaryLee@KW.com BRANDY SWANSON Cell (970) 319-3574 BrandySwanson@KW.com

GRAND VALLEY ECHO • Mid-December 2011 / Mid-January 2012, Page 9

O I L

GRAND VALLEY ENERGY A monthly column by M.E. Denomy, CPA

O Christmas Tree The temperatures are sure cold around here and I worry a little about the folks who have to work on the wellsites. Carhartts only go so far. At least they have a Christmas tree on the wellsites to “enjoy.” Actually an oil and gas well Christmas tree is the configuration of valves that are used to turn on and off the production. The shape of the valves looks a little like a Christmas tree, thus the name that it was given. There are so many other parts of the sites that are necessary for the production of the oil and gas. There is the dehydrator that takes the water out of the gas stream so that it does not freeze in the lines. There is a separator that splits the oil, water and gas and sends them in various ways. The water goes to one tank, usually underground. The oil goes to another tank, usually above ground. The gas goes through a pipeline on its way to be used to warm us up after being out in these cold times. There are pieces of equipment that look like big fans called compressors. These compressors increase the pressure of the gas, so that it can fit and travel better in the pipelines. The sites have meters, usually in their own little housing units and many have solar panels to run the equipment. Imagine, we use new technology to help produce oil and gas. There are also tanks on many of the sites with glycol in them. This chemical helps to keep the water from freezing the equipment and boy, do we need that now. This list of equipment is some of what is put on a wellsite after the well is producing. There are numerous different pieces of equipment that are used during the drilling of the well. So, Merry Christmas to all of you and crank up the heat. Thank goodness we have it. Mary Ellen Denomy, CPA, is a Battlement Mesa resident and an Accredited Petroleum Accountant She has been nationally recognized as an expert in oil and gas issues. Mary Ellen is the immediate past president of the Rocky Mountain Chapter of the National Association of Royalty Owners. If you have questions, contact her at the naro-us.org website or through The Grand Valley Echo.

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Happy New Year

By David Boyd, BLM

GRAND JUNCTION – Bureau of Land Management (BLM) has posted information for public review and comment about lands in northwestern Colorado proposed for several upcoming oil and gas lease sales. As part of recent reforms to the federal oil and gas leasing process, BLM now conducts additional reviews of parcels proposed for quarterly oil and gas lease sales and provides the public with multiple opportunities to review and comment on the proposals. Before beginning the Environmental Assessment for the Aug. 9 lease sale, the Grand Junction Field Office is accepting initial public comments. One parcel is being evaluated for this sale five miles southeast of Collbran. The environmental assessment of this parcel will also be available for public review once it is drafted. Environmental reviews for parcels proposed for the May 10 lease sale are now available for review and comment. The Little Snake Field Office in Craig is evaluating six parcels in Moffat County and one in Rio Blanco County. The environmental review and a map of these proposed parcels are online: www.blm.gov/co/st/en/fo/lsfo.html The White River Field Office in Meeker is evaluating 33 parcels in Rio Blanco County. The environmental review and a map of these proposed parcels are online: http://www.blm.gov/co/st/en/fo/wrfo/index.html Specific information about how to comment is available at the specific websites listed above. Comments will be most helpful if received by Jan. 4. The next quarterly oil and gas lease sale in Colorado is scheduled for Feb. 9 . Six parcels within the Little Snake Field Office (three in Moffat County and three in Routt County) are being offered, as well as two geothermal parcels in Gunnison County. The deadline for submitting protests for this lease sale is 4 p.m., Dec. 12. All protests must be received by the BLM Colorado State Office, located at 2850 Youngfield St., Lakewood, CO 80215. Additional lease sale information can be obtained online at: www.blm.gov/co/st/en/BLM_Programs/oilandgas/leasing.html, or one of the bureau’s field offices, or the BLM Colorado State Office Public Room in Lakewood (address above).

ksun christmas gala fundraiser december 3, 2011 7 – 10 p.m. at the Activity Center $30 Donation in Advance/$35 Donation at Door Tickets available at the following locations: Alpine Bank • Battlement Mesa Activity Center Wells Fargo Bank • Old Mountain Gift and Jewelry

KSUN COMMUNITY RADIO 398 Arroyo Drive, Battlement Mesa • 285-2246

www.ksunradio.org

**Not valid on Valentine’s Day

G A S

Northwest Colorado BLM lands proposed for upcoming oil and gas lease sales available for review

YOUR SOURCE FOR EMERGENCY WEATHER AND AMBER ALERTS

We would love to have you support our station!

Page 10, GRAND VALLEY ECHO • Mid-December 2011 / Mid-January 2012

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You play pickleball? Boomer-generation game is sweeping the country – and Battlement Mesa By Jack Elsea, Echo contributor Pickleball is the fastest growing game in the U.S. and is being played at the Battlement Mesa Activity Center. Almost every day, at least during the fall and winter, a group of seniors – mostly men – square off for daily battle. Teams are arranged, and the net positioned. The ball is procured, and play commences. The game arrived here locally, thanks to the efforts of Wayne and Kathy Morris. While visiting their daughter in Virginia, the Morrises had the opportunity to experience the game. Upon his return, Wayne then purchased the necessary equipment and started lining up potential players. Over a three-year period, the group has steadily increased in numbers. Pickleball is a net game, combining badminton, tennis and table tennis. The ball resembles a wiffle ball and the paddle looks like a ping-pong paddle on steroids. The court and the speed of the game is about a third that of tennis, but still you get plenty of exercise. The game has become the rage of the boomer generation. The origin of pickleball dates back to 1965 in Washington state where the originator, Joel Pritchard, a representative of the U.S. House, devised the game. So the story goes, Prichard had a family dog, a Cocker Spaniel named Pickles, who was quite inept in fetching errant shots, but was quite good at hiding the ball. Thus the game had a name. Last summer, at the Western Colorado Senior Games held in Grand Junction, three Battlement Mesa players vied for the gold medal. John Santos, a former tennis teaching pro and yours truly competed in the open division of doubles and came away with the silver medal. We lost our very first match, then battled our way back through the losers bracket to play for the championship. The

BMAC member profile: Michael Swartz

The championship match with, left, John Santos and, right, Jack Elsea in Photos courtesy of Jack Elsea foreground.

next day, Kathy Morris and I took gold in the mixed division without ever dropping a game. It is an easy game to learn; kind of a simpler form of tennis and fun for everyone. If you are interested in participating or would like to see how the game is played, contact me, Jack Elsea, at 285-1200 for information and times.

Tin Cup Indoor Golf Club Update Make sure you get your Tin Cup Golf Club information in by Jan. 1 for your free membership to the Battlement Mesa Activity Center’s (BMAC) Tin Cup Indoor Golf Club. You can leave your completed club sheets at BMAC's front desk. More than 75 golfers attended our series of demo days in November. All were amazed at the technology and info given by the software to help your game. The netting has arrived and has been installed. For further information or tee times call 250-5154. – Dick Ciprich

By Anne Huber, Battlement Mesa Activity Center

Michael Swartz, 19, made a surprise visit to the Battlement Mesa Activity Center (BMAC) this week after being absent for about eight months. It was a surprise because he wasn’t immediately recognized by staff who used to see him nearly every day for most of his life. Michael, at 5’ 8”, had dropped 55 pounds from 225 to 169. Michael graduated from Grand Valley High School in 2011. He said that during his school years he was in denial about his weight, ate a lot of junk food and wasn’t very active. In the fall of 2010, he talked to an Army recruiter who told him that he needed to lose weight to join. Michael took this directive to heart and in December 2010, he began a program of diet and exercise that would help him achieve his goal of joining. He credits a friend and former member of the activity center with helping him know how to work out and eat. His regimen is fairly simple: tuna, salads, apples, bananas and other fruit. I asked him about vegetables; this caused him to make a face and he confessed to eating just the raw ones in his salads. He works out in a gym and runs two miles every other day. The running was hard at first. Now that he has met his weight loss goal, he allows himself two of his former favorite foods once every couple of weeks – a cheeseburger and a cookie or two from McDonalds – but still no soft drinks. He drank only water during the weight loss phase but drinks some coffee and iced tea now. Michael’s transformation is impressive. He walks and talks with confidence and is positive about his future. He feels that joining the Army will put him on a path to his ultimate career goal of becoming a policeman. His Army job will be Petroleum Supply Specialist. He reports to Fort Jackson, S.C. in March for 10 weeks of boot camp. The staff at BMAC wish Michael all the best and congratulate him on his successful program to fitness! The BMAC is looking for other fitness-related stories. If you would like to share a successful program for fitness, please contact Anne Huber at 285-9480.

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GRAND VALLEY ECHO • Mid-December 2011 / Mid-January 2012, Page 11

S P O R T S

Thank You for your Support

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Parachute/Battlement Mesa Park and Recreation District - “Where The Fun Begins”

Happy Holidays to all who help with Park and Rec programs By Mary Anderson, Parachute/Battlement Mesa Park and Recreation District executive director

Happy Holidays to every volunteer, coach and sponsor that has helped with the Parachute/Battlement Mesa Park and Recreation District’s programs!

Steve and Sherry Keinath and the Keinath Ranch from the Grand Valley Park Association

Adult Coed Volleyball: Eight teams are playing against each other each Tuesday night at the Battlement Mesa Activity Center. Games are held at 6:30 and 7:30 p.m., and there is fun for everyone. There will be another league of adult coed volleyball beginning in January. Sign your team up soon for the winter session. Thank you to the senior class members who are babysitting during the adult volleyball games as a fundraising activity. You are appreciated. Youth Girls Volleyball: Third through eighth graders are welcome. Practices will be held on Mondays and Tuesdays at St John Elementary beginning on Jan. 9. Fee to participate is $55. The games will be held on Saturdays in February. Marilyn Bulger will be the head coach. Youth Basketball for Boys: Boys basketball will be held beginning in January and running through early March for third through sixth graders. Fee to play is $55 plus a $35 refundable uniform fee. The boys will play with other area towns. Practices will be held twice a week with games on Saturdays. Pre-register your child by Jan. 4. Coaches are needed. Youth Wrestling: Kindergartners through sixth graders are welcome March through May. Wrestling is open to both boys and girls. Tony Serna will be the head coach. The fee to participate is $100, which includes fees into six league tournaments. Youth Spring Soccer: Registration for spring soccer is due by Jan. 19, and practices begin in March. Fees are $65. This is a competitive league and is for youth ages 8-13. Early registration is required due to the large number of teams to be scheduled throughout the league.

Parachute/Battlement Mesa Parks and Recreation is at 259 Cardinal Way, Parachute, 285-0388, parachutebattlementparkandrecreation.org. Check out the website; it’s updated frequently. Battlement Mesa Activity Center Tennis Association News

Tennis Club: Fun on and off the court By Vina Klahn, Battlement Mesa Tennis Association

www.bmac-co.org 970-285-9480 Beginning Ballroom, Fox Trot, Cha Cha and Jitterbug, Wednesdays, 7:15 p.m. Intermediate Ballroom, Review and add steps, Wednesdays, 8:00 p.m.5 Classes start January 4, 2012 • Sign up early to reserve your spot. Indoor Cycling is back! Mondays at 9 a.m. - Sign up in advance to reserve a bicycle Ladies Night Out, Thursday, Feb. 2, 2012 A pinochle group is forming. Call BMAC for more information. Get your art work ready for “Anything Goes” Art Show, February 2012 Drop in for: Zumba, Total Body Fitness, Advanced Step, Morning and Evening Water Aerobics, Taekwon Do, Kung Fu, Ballroom Dance (January), Belly Dance and Yoga Call for more information on these events and fitness classes at BMAC

Check out BATTLEMENT MESA METROPOLITAN DISTRICT'S new website for valuable information about water & wastewater operations, district management, documents, employment & association management.

www.bmmetrodistrict.com

The DesOrmeau home was a grand setting for the Tennis Club's annual Christmas party! Bill's and Mary's beautiful decorations made the atmosphere festive and their hospitality was thoroughly enjoyed by the 17 members in attendance. Libations and ham were provided by the club, accompanied by tasty side dishes brought by club mem- At the Battlement Mesa’s Tennis Club bers. The white elephant gift exchange provided lots of Christmas party Dec. 1, from left, seated, Don laughs and some anguish. Ann Chance was sorely disap- Chance, Bud Madeen, Anne Madeen, Hope pointed when Anne Madeen claimed the bottle of fine Perrine, Suzanne Michaelis; standing, Pete Perrine, Bill DesOrmeau, Vina Klahn, Mary wine, leaving her with a plaque of bathroom rules DesOrmeau, Susan Smith, Lee Smith, Don instead. Barr, Joy Kemper, Sherrill Barr, Ann Chance, The club presented the DesOrmeaus with a gorgeous and John Shepherd. Not pictured: the phoplant in appreciation for hosting the party, as well as tographer, John Michaelis. Photo by John Michaelis Bill's diligent work in getting lighting repaired or replaced at the courts. The weather has made it possible to play most regularly scheduled days, even though the attire often includes long johns and gloves. Ladies play on Monday, Wednesday, and Friday beginning at 10 a.m. Gentlemen still have claim to the courts on Tuesday, Thursday, and Saturday; however, they are having some difficulty rounding up enough players. No social events are planned for the immediate future, but invitations to join the club are always open. Our dues, unlike many other fees, haven't changed in years. Singles may purchase a year's membership for $10 and couples for $18. Current members are reminded that time for 2012 dues is approaching and can be paid at the activity center. Community members who have an interest in joining or have questions may contact Joy Kemper at 285-6545 or Vina Klahn at 285-6718.

970-285-9050

Sponsored by: Sherry Johnson

Mary Lee Mohrlang, CRS, GRI 970-216-5058 Brandy Swanson, 970-319-3574 73 Sipprelle Drive, Suite J-1, Batlement Mesa, CO 81635

Virtual Tours www.MohrlangJones.com

GRAND VALLEY ECHO • Mid-December 2011 / Mid-January 2012, Page 13 New ASE Mechanic Gunther Boldt

“We will treat your vehicle like it’s our own… with your safety in mind.” – Owners, Bonnie & Bobby Hancock

Hours: Mon. - Fri., 8 am to 6 pm Sat. by appt.

Nature at Home and Afield By Betsy Leonard

We have 3 bays open for auto repair & a 4th bay coming soon! We do brakes, exhaust, struts, shocks, front end & rear end work. We offer fleet management.

What! We don’t live in a desert?

Ever since global explorations began, biologists and explorers have recognized there are huge areas of land that share the same average temperature and amount of precipitation. Each biogeographic realm is actually a mosaic created by variations in climate, topography, and the composition of regional soils. So, these broad, vegetative subdivisions, together with the animals and other organisms living there, are known as biomes. Biomes include many different types of organization, such as desert, tundra, grasslands, forests, and scrublands. The biome is the largest category scientists use to classify ecosystems. Some people think that Battlement Mesa and Parachute are in the desert. They are not. In fact, Battlement Mesa and Parachute are located in the semidesert shrublands biome. We have changed the vegetation where we live because we have added water; but look out into the natural areas. Low, greenish-gray expanses of shrubs in arid lowlands mark the appearance of semidesert shrublands. The height and density of the shrubs varies, and the plants are usually short and uncrowded, interspersed with a few grasses and forbs because a dry climate and poor soils place serve limitations on plant growth. The climate of semidesert shrublands is typified by hot summers and cold winters, with temperatures in January and February often below freezing. Annual precipitation averages less than 10 inches, occurring in the critical spring and winter periods. During the summer, high daytime temperatures and low humidity conspire to produce high rates of evaporation. Soils developing on shales such as the widespread Mancos Formation are typically high in clay and silt. Water from brief thunderstorms does not easily penetrate these soils, so there tends to be significant runoff. High evaporation rates during the hot, dry summers leads to a concentration of salts. You may notice a white crust on the surface of the soil in low places. Sandy soils are very well drained and quickly absorb falling rain. It is known, I’m sure, that we live on the Colorado Plateau, not in the Rocky Mountains. Some of the common plants include greasewood, saltbush, rabbitbrush, winterfat, foxtail barley, Indian ricegrass, and big sagebrush. Semidesert shrublands are used for cattle grazing and some acreage has been converted to agricultural production. Recovery of the range is slow due to low annual precipitation. Because of the accumulation of salts, some plant species may become toxic to livestock. Poisoning and death of hungry animals may occur if they have had little or nothing to eat. For a quick contrast, a desert has a hot, dry climate also, but the soils are different than a shrubland. When rain does fall, it falls in heavy, brief pulses. The unprotected soils erode rapidly during violent thunderstorms and windstorms. The vegetational cover is minimal. Because of the low humidity, sunlight penetration through the atmosphere is high and the ground heats up rapidly. At night, the heat quickly radiates back into the air. Although there is some similarity to the desert, we live in a totally different biome, the semidesert shrubland. Betsy Leonard is an environmental education specialist who lives in Parachute.

Page 14, GRAND VALLEY ECHO • Mid-December 2011 / Mid-January 2012

Grand Valley Fire Protection District By Grand Valley Deputy Fire Chief Rob Ferguson Grand Valley Fire Protection District covers a wide area of residential, commercial and some very remote areas with fire suppression, emergency medical services, fire prevention, public education and training in cardiac pulmonary resuscitation (CPR). The district covers roughly 321 square miles. This is I-70 from mile marker 66.4 to mile marker 82.5, then all the way north to Rio Blanco County and south to Mesa County, including three-quarters of a square mile of Mesa County. If you should have any questions, comments or concerns, please feel free to contact Deputy Fire Chief Rob Ferguson at 285-9119 or by e-mail at gvfpdops@sopris.net. For the month of November 2011, the fire district responded to 41 calls for service: 7 fire incidents If you should 2 structure fires Training hours per crew: 4 fire alarms have an Green Crew: 19 hrs 1 brush fires emergency, Black crew: 31.5 hrs 21 emergency medical calls Red Crew: 48.5 hrs please call 4 public assists 911 as soon 9 motor vehicle crashes

as possible!

Want to know more about the fire district? Visit our website at grandvalleyfire.org. Here you will find all the minutes for board meetings and financial statements. The fire district will also be having an election in 2012 for board member positions that will be vacated in May 2012. Want info from around Garfield County? Visit garcopublicinfo.org. Carefully decorating Christmas trees can help make your holidays safer. • When decorating Christmas trees, always use safe tree lights. (Some lights are designed only for indoor or outdoor use, but not both.) Larger tree lights should also have some type of reflector rather than a bare bulb and all lights should be listed by a testing laboratory. Never use electric lights on a metal tree. • Follow the manufacturer's instructions on how to use tree lights. Any string of lights with worn, frayed or broken cords or loose bulb connections should not be used. • Always unplug Christmas tree lights before leaving home or going to sleep. • Never use lit candles to decorate a tree, and place them well away from tree branches. • Try to keep live trees as moist as possible by giving them plenty of water daily. Do not purchase a tree that is dry or dropping needles. • Choose a sturdy tree stand designed not to tip over. • When purchasing an artificial tree, be sure it is labeled as fire-retardant. • Children are fascinated with Christmas trees. Keep a watchful eye on them when around the tree and do not let them play with the wiring or lights. • Store matches and lighters up out of the reach of children, preferably in a locked cabinet. • Make sure the tree is at least three feet (one meter) away from any heat source and try to position it near an outlet so that cords are not running long distances. Do not place the tree where it may block exits. • Safely dispose of the tree when it begins dropping needles. Dried-out trees are highly flammable and should not be left in a house or garage, or placed against the house. Have a great holiday and be SAFE!

FOR RENT Battlement School House owned by Grand Valley Historical Society. We are offering the building for single event rent.

The building consists of two rooms, parking, a complete kitchen and rest room plus 10 tables and 150 chairs. Complete serving of china, silverware, glass ware available for nice parties. Great dance floor, too. Capacity 75 For organization meetings & meals, holiday/birthday/anniversary parties, neighborhood gatherings and family reunions. For more information contact: Judith at 285-9696 or Michelle at 285-7828

Mesa Vista News Ula and her accordion entertain during the holidays By Kathy Germano, Mesa Vista Assisted Living Residence activity director Season’s Greetings from Mesa Vista! We had a very successful bake and craft sale last month and we want to thank all who participated, from your purchases to your donations, that benefited our activity fund. Thank you! The month of December is a busy one indeed. We attended the Live Nativity scene on Dec. 2 at Beasley Park. Youth groups from St Johns Elementary School and Grace Bible Church are caroling for us. The preschool children from the library’s Story Time hour are joining us for stories and songs. Our annual Holiday Party, with entertainment by Ula with her accordion, is Dec. 16 at 6 p.m. Santa is visiting our residents on Dec. 20. Our welcoming committee is hosting a luncheon at Mesa Vista for seniors from the Rifle Senior Center. We hope to continue this affair through next year. Mesa Vista is sponsoring a tatting class in January. Dianne Dayhoff will be teaching the art of tatting on Jan. 9 a.m. at 10:30 a.m. and again on Jan. 12 at 6 p.m. The cost is $10 plus supplies and the public is invited. The class is limited to 10 people so if you have an interest in learning this lost art form, please contact Dianne at 250-5548 to reserve your place. Celebrating December birthdays are Muriel Stewart on Dec. 9, Linda Gray on Dec. 20 and Mary Bushong on Dec. 28. Happy Birthday! Our doors are always open. If you would like to join us for an activity or a tour, just give us a call. Until next month, have a safe and happy holiday! Mesa Vista Assisted Living Residence in Parachute/Battlement Mesa is part of the Senior Housing Options network of residences and apartments providing housing for older adults in Colorado.

Grand River Student Health Center in Parachute receives donation for dental services The Grand River Hospital District (GRHD) Volunteer Association recently presented a $10,000 check to Grand River Hospital District to support a children’s dental program in Parachute. The money is being directed to provide preventative dental care for children in the Garfield School District No. 16 and will go to establishing dental care at the Parachute Student Health Center. The center opened in November 2010. GRHD CEO Jim Coombs and Lois Kame, clinical director of the Parachute Student Health Center received the funds from moneys raised at GRHD Volunteer Association’s fundraiser, the Grand Wine Affair, held in Rifle this fall. “There is such a huge need for basic dental care services for children in this community,” said Lois. “So many health-related issues can be prevented with a simple thing like good quality dental care at an early age.” GRHD Volunteer Association President Larry Sweeney explained how Parachute was selected to receive this year’s donation. “Each year we select different types of projects around the district,” he said. “When we heard about the need for dental services at the Grand River Student Health Center in Parachute, we all immediately agreed that this was a great project to support with our fundraiser this year.” The new dental program in Parachute is scheduled to begin offering low cost and no cost services in January. The $10,000 will be used to provide varnishes and cleanings as well as oral hygiene education. – Annick Pruett, Grand River Hospital District

GRAND VALLEY ECHO • Mid-December 2011 / Mid-January 2012, Page 15

H E A LT H

The Tooth of the Matter All I want for Christmas are my two front teeth By Carol Lybrook, DDS Since 1946, every holiday season surrounds us with the words and lyrics of a song written by Don Gardner called, “All I Want for Christmas Is My Two Front Teeth.” This special holiday song is popular with children but true for some adults as well. Crowns and conventional bridges or dentures may not be the only options when replacing missing teeth. For some people, dental implants offer a smile that looks and feels very natural. But, do implants work if you have diabetes? According to the American Dental Association, the idea of combining dental implants and diabetes has long been thought foolish, in particular in the case of uncontrolled diabetics. Uncontrolled diabetics are far greater risk of oral infections that weaken their jaw bone tissue, making the successful fusion of the jawbone and the titanium implant rod very difficult. Dental implants and diabetes have a much better chance of being compatible in people who have their diabetes under control.

Difficulties for diabetic patients in dental implants Because the life expectancy of individuals continues to increase, dentists providing dental implant treatment can expect to see an increasing number of patients with diabetes mellitus. Today, there are little data available concerning the clinical outcomes involving the use of implant treatment for patients with diabetes mellitus. There are three types of diabetes mellitus: Type 1 (insulin dependent), Type 2 (non-insulin dependent), and gestational. Individuals suffering from diabetes, especially uncontrolled diabetics, have a higher risk of developing bacterial infections of the mouth. These infections may impair your ability to process insulin, resulting in greater difficulty with controlling your diabetes. Periodontal diseases will be more severe than those of a non-diabetic and treatment more difficult. However, well-controlled diabetics have a lower incidence of decay and periodontitis. Implant procedures and periodontal surgery are routinely successful on well-controlled diabetics.

Diabetic people not far away from dental implants It has become increasingly common for controlled diabetic patients to be considered as candidates for dental implants. Screening for diabetes and trying to ensure that implant candidates are in metabolic control are recommended to increase the chances of successful Osseo integration. Antibiotic protection and avoidance of smoking also should be considered. Diabetes mellitus is no longer considered to be a contraindication for implant-supported prostheses, provided that the patient's blood sugar is under control, and that there is motivation for oral hygiene procedures.

Are you a candidate for dental implants? The ideal candidate for a dental implant is in good general and oral health. Adequate bone in your jaw is needed to support the implant, and the best candidates have healthy gum tissues that are free of periodontal disease. Dental implants are intimately connected with the gum tissues and underlying bone in the mouth. Since periodontists are the dental experts who specialize in precisely these areas, they are ideal members of your dental implant team. Not only do periodontists have experience working with other dental professionals, they also have the special knowledge, training and facilities that you need to have teeth that look and feel just like your own. If you feel you are a candidate, talk to your dentist because there is an option with dental implants. And, you will not have to experience another holiday season singing ... “All I want for Christmas is my two front teeth.” Happy Holidays from all of us here at Lybrook Dental Center. See you in 2012. Dr. Carol Lybrook and her husband, Dr. Scott Lybrook, operate Lybrook Dental Center in the Southgate Plaza in Parachute.

Get a handle on heartburn By Sarah Hunter

Heartburn is nasty. It can keep you up at night, make you avoid the food you love, and cause you to feel downright miserable. Common heartburn symptoms include a burning feeling in the chest, usually after eating, a hot, sour, acidic, or salty tasting fluid at the back of the throat, difficulty swallowing, a feeling that what you just ate is sticking in your chest or throat, and sometimes chronic cough, sore throat, or hoarseness. If you have these symptoms and suffer from heartburn, you aren’t alone. About one in 18 people have heartburn. There are lifestyle changes you can make to help ease your pain, though. Some require a little foresight, but you won’t miss the heartburn after. Try to eat small meals frequently. When you stuff yourself full, heartburn is more likely to happen, so try to keep yourself satisfied with smaller meals more often. Avoid eating these meals too close to bedtime though. Avoid the foods that make it happen. This list includes spicy food, red meat, fried foods, citrus, onion, tomatoes, butter and oils, peppermint, chocolate and caffeine, especially fizzy sodas. Monitor yourself and take note of what you eat that causes your heartburn symptoms. There’s another reason not to drink too much alcohol. Lots of alcohol or alcohol too often is a bad recipe for those suffering from heartburn. Lose that extra weight. A 2003 study found a strong link between heartburn symptoms and body mass index. Obese people were three times more likely than people of a healthy weight range to have heartburn and acid reflux. Don’t squeeze into the skinny jeans. Clothing that’s too tight around the middle can force acid from your stomach into your esophagus, causing more discomfort than those ill-fitting pants. If lifestyle and diet changes aren’t enough to halt your heartburn, see your doctor. He or she can talk with you about prescription options that may help. Grand River Hospital and Medical Center in Rifle offers EsophyX TIF, which is a minimally invasive surgery that rebuilds the valve that plays a role in chronic heartburn and acid reflux. Patients have reported a significant improvement in quality of life and a fast recovery time. If your symptoms are interrupting your life, this may be an option to discuss with your family doctor.

Page 16, GRAND VALLEY ECHO • Mid-December 2011 / Mid-January 2012

The Battlement Mesa Service Association

Echo Briefs

BMSA: Battlement Mesa online

Literacy Outreach needs volunteers

By Keith Lammey, President, Battlement Mesa Service Association

Literacy Outreach needs your help teaching basic literacy skills to adults including basic reading, writing and math to native English speakers and oral English skills to non-native speakers. Volunteers do not need to speak Spanish or have prior teaching experience, just a desire to help, the ability to read and speak English, and three hours of time per week to work with an adult. Literacy Outreach will provide interested volunteers with more information regarding the requirements and rewards at a volunteer informational session on Jan. 3 at the Parachute Branch Library at 10 a.m. Literacy Outreach is a local nonprofit providing individual tutoring for adults with literacy skills below the fourth grade level. Please call 945-5282 for more information. – Martha Fredendall

Salvation Army bell ringers: Money donated here stays here Volunteer bell ringers for the annual Salvation Army Red Kettle Campaign are accepting donations during this holiday season at locations throughout the Roaring Fork and Colorado River valleys, from Aspen to Parachute. Funds go to help individuals and families in need. Money donated here stays here. For more information, call 945-6976 or The Salvation Army, P.O. Box 2964, Glenwood Springs, CO 81602. – Roberta McGowan, Salvation Army

“Tips, Topics and Talks on Tuesday” features Grand Valley Fire District January's “Tips, Topics and Talks on Tuesday” will be held at the Grand Valley Fire Protection District Fire Station #1 at 0124 Stone Quarry Rd., Battlement Mesa, on Jan. 10 at 10 a.m. The public is invited and will be welcomed by Grand Valley Fire Chief David Blair. The highlight of the event will be a demonstration of the correct use of home and car fire extinguishers. Utilizing a fire contained in a fire pan, the on-duty crew will have each person attending come forward in turn so they can pull the extinguisher pin and learn how to douse a fire. Next, the group will learn how to use the "Vial of Life" program to alert an ambulance crew of health and personal information in an emergency. Everyone will take home a brochure explaining how and where to display this information. Light refreshments and tour the two-year-old facility will round out a morning packed with vital information. Mark your calendar. – Mitzi Burkhart

BLM winter closures in effect in Colorado River Valley SILT, Colo. – Annual winter closures to motorized vehicles on certain lands managed by the Bureau of Land Management’s (BLM) Colorado River Valley Field Office went into effect on Dec. 1 to protect critical big game winter range and prevent road damage. These seasonal gate closures occur annually from Dec. 1-April 30 at several points in the Castle Peak area in Eagle County, East Elk Creek in Garfield County, and on Light Hill and the Crown in Pitkin County. All of the areas continue to be open to non-motorized recreation opportunities such as hiking, snowshoeing, horseback riding and skiing. The lower gate at Transfer Trail above Glenwood Springs will also be closed Dec. 1 to maintain snow conditions for snowmobiling. “We appreciate the public’s cooperation in helping us protect wildlife and public lands,” said Karl Mendonca, acting field manager for the Colorado River Valley Field Office. BLM’s Wolcott and Gypsum campgrounds in Eagle County are closed for the winter and will reopen this spring when conditions allow. For additional information or to report violations in these areas call the BLM Colorado River Valley Field Office in Silt at 876-9000. – David Boyd, BLM

Battlement Mesa has had an online presence for several years, so most residents are familiar with battlementmesacolorado.com. Many of you are regular visitors to the site, and if you haven’t visited the site recently, you should. The website address hasn’t changed but the website has a brand new look, a plethora of new information, and many new features. When you view the new site, you will notice that the old “Battlement Mesa, The Colorado Dream” logo has been replaced by our new logo. You’ve probably already seen the new logo on some of our community signage, on Battlement Mesa correspondence, or at the new Battlement Mesa “city government” office at 401 Arroyo Dr. You will also notice that this is Battlement Mesa, Colorado’s website rather than a Battlement Mesa Service Association (BMSA) site. We think that you will like the comprehensiveness of the new site and its ease of navigation. The site has five major information groups: • Explore Battlement Mesa • Government Services • Community Services • Businesses and News • Activities and Events As the title suggests, under “Explore Battlement Mesa” you will find general information about our community including: • History • Location • Climate/Weather • Lifestyle, • Planned Community • Real Estate • Visitor Information • Education • Photo Gallery • Videos and Slide Shows Under Government Services, you can access information about the BMSA, the Grand Valley Fire Department, the BMMD, the GarCo Sheriff’s Office, as well as information on each of our village associations. The Community Services section includes information about the BMAC, clubs and organizations, churches, area hospitals, radio, TV and media, Mesa Vista, senior citizen services, and transportation. The Businesses group includes a complete business listing, pages on key Battlement Mesa businesses and a classified advertisement section. The last section, News, Activities and Events, expands on the News and Upcoming Events section that appears on the home page and highlights our golf course, parks and recreation, outdoor adventures and performing arts activities that are available in the area. Yes, that’s correct, we have a Video page. As you would expect, the content is thin but stay tuned and you’ll soon find more. And, in case you missed it, there is a sixminute video on the home page. To view it, click on the arrow that is in the middle of the small Battlement Mesa waterfall photo on the right side of the home page. Other new features include a new digital newsletter which you can sign up for (from the home page), a link to the Battlement Mesa Facebook page, (yes we are on Facebook), a new RSS feed that enables you to be notified when selected new information is added to the website, four new event calendars, several online web forms, the ability to live stream (i.e. listen to) KSUN radio on your computer, and the ability to read the online version of The Grand Valley Echo from our site. And, just in case you need information that isn’t obvious in the menu hierarchy, a “Search By Keyword” feature is provided at the top right on the home page. In addition, you can view the sitemap of the entire website by clicking on “Sitemap” in the lower section of any page. The best part is, we are working on and hope to add additional features including a MLS listing capability (called a RETS feed), the ability to conduct community surveys, and the ability to generate podcasts. We’ve attempted to unveil our community’s secret clubs and organizations but we must admit that some of them have eluded even our best efforts. We know that you’re out there somewhere and we’re eager to help spread the word about your club or organization (no political groups, please). Please contact us if your organization isn’t listed or if the information about your club or organization is incorrect on the website. We encourage you to sign up for the newsletter, tell us what you like and don’t like about the site, to visit often and to spread the word about our new website. Welcome aboard, Battlement Mesa!

GRAND VALLEY ECHO • Mid-December 2011 / Mid-January 2012, Page 17

From Grand Valley High School

O U R

Extra-curricular activities have positive impacts on students

From District No.16

By David Walck, Grand Valley High School Assistant Principal and Activities Director Grand Valley High School is fortunate to offer a variety of activities to help enhance the classroom experience and provide opportunities so that students can excel outside the classroom. Research shows that involvement in extra-curricular activities has a positive impact on the academic success of the participants. Academic and behavior expectations help push these participants to a high level of success. At Grand Valley High School (GVHS), 82 percent of the student body is involved in one of the 13 activities and 14 athletic programs at the school and are required to maintain academic eligibility in order to participate. This is an outstanding participation rate compared to other schools similar in size. This fall, the activity participants had a lot to celebrate. Here are a few of the notables: • Senior David Witt was selected as Colorado IBM Hero of the Week for his outstanding academic performance while maintaining strong involvement in activities. His name was mentioned at a Broncos game and on Denver television/radio stations as one of the few Western Slope recipients for 2011. • Sophomores Kayla Epperson and Erin Schuckers were selected to perform in the District 8 Honor Band in Aspen and at the Best of the West showcase in Grand Junction. • Junior Brenden Neulieb was one of handful of students invited back to the second round of the University of Northern Colorado Math Contest. He will compete this January for final placing. He is a member of the GVHS Math Club. • Sophomore Kyler Quinn and Junior Michael Schmitt were recognized at the state and national level for their performance on technology-based assessment through the Technical Students of America Club. • Junior Isaiah Martinez represented Grand Valley at the state cross-country meet. • Senior Emily Marbas was selected to play in the All-State softball games. • The “Think Pink” night for breast cancer awareness raised several thousand dollars by the efforts of our community members and students. • The GVHS Theatre Department showcased their talent by having three outstanding performances of “Steel Magnolias.” The winter and spring seasons look to be filled with even more successes. We obviously have a lot to be thankful for at GVHS. Our activity sponsors and coaches are at the heart of this success. Every high school teacher sponsors or coaches at least one of our extra-curricular programs. Many of these individuals give of their time and expertise for little or no stipend. In addition, the tremendous support from our booster club and private donors only help sustain these great activity programs. You will either see or hear about new equipment, facility upgrades, and field trips that have only been made possible through donations from private and anonymous donations. The school district has not spent any district funds on these new improvements. The mission of the activities department is to provide a wide variety of opportunities for students to experience success while gaining experience and skills that will last the participant a lifetime. Together, the educators, community members and private sponsors, are making an impact at Grand Valley High School. If you have any questions or concerns with the activities department, please feel free to contact Assistant Principal and Activities Director David Walck at 285-5705 or dwalck@garfield16.org.

S C H O O L S

Getting up to date By Ken Haptonstall, Ph.D., Garfield School District 16 superintendent

In an effort to increase our communication with the local community, the school district has been making some changes to our website, as well as enlisting the help of external “helpers.” The school district has added more information about district goals, both short-term and long-term, under the communications tab, information directly from the superintendent under the administration tab, and information about each school, including current maintenance projects, costs for utilities, and efforts to reduce energy costs. There is a bi-weekly newsletter, under the communications tab, that will give you insight to news from around the district. You can also find our district budget by clicking on the business services tab, under administration. Coming in January, the district will start a new Facebook page, as well as look to other social media technologies to better meet the information needs of the local and broader community that the school district serves. All of this work is being done through the kind work of locals who are donating their time to ensure the most up-to-date information we have is transmitted to our public.

Page 18, GRAND VALLEY ECHO • Mid-December 2011 / Mid-January 2012

O U R

S C H O O L S

Grand Valley High School News

Most Improved Student at GVHS

By Tarianna Lawrence, GVHS At Grand Valley High School, the student chosen as most improved for the month of November was Sara Sirotek. To receive the title of Most Improved Student, you have to strive to improve as a student and improve accountability among the students at Grand Valley High School. Sara said that she earned Most Improved Student because she studied more, and she came to school more and got to all of her classes. She also said that her grades improved dramatically. Sara is involved in cheerleading, F.C.C.L.A, drama, math club, and she also has a job at Sonic. Sara is very excited to graduate and stated, “Yeah, I am definitely excited to graduate, because I will be the first in my family to leave and go do something with my life.” Sara is enjoying her senior year, and she says the only downfall is it has gone by so fast. She plans on going to a veterinarian school for six to eight years, to become a surgeon. Way to go Sara, and good luck with your future endeavors!

We are proud of you David!

By Artemio Baltazar, GVHS David Witt was selected by Colorado High School Activities Association as the IBM Hero of the Week for the state of Colorado, on the week of Nov, 28- Dec. 2. IBM stands for International Business Machines, and it is a major sponsor for CHSAA. David is a senior at Grand Valley High School, and has participated in many CHSAA activities since his freshman year; for example, wrestling and football. His dedication and hard work has allowed him to go to state for wrestling his freshman, sophomore, and junior year. Mr. Walck nominated Witt for this award, and as a result he has been mentioned in The Denver Post and during the Denver Broncos game. "I worked really hard to get where I am at and it is nice to see it pay off a little bit," said Witt. Witt was recognized for his community involvement, leadership, citizenship, classroom success, and participation in CHSAA activities. He has always done his best work in the community and at a local level, and for this reason CHSAA has nominated him at the state level. The recognition of the IBM comes with great responsibility and honor that Witt will remember forever. Great job David and keep up the good work

An adventure for Grand Valley students By Ceara Friel, GVHS This year the GVHS music department made a trip to see “The Lion King” at the Buell Theatre in Denver. Hundreds of people came to the event filled with excitement. The play handed out laughter, song, and emotions. The event was so colorful that it felt as if you were watching the movie live. “I thought it was fantastic, and was amazed by the actors and actresses, the lights, the singing, the costumes, and everything else. I had the time of my life on that trip,” stated student Kaitlyn Brooks. The details in the play were so realistic and breathtaking. The light had the tendency to trick the audience in some scenes, and the sculptures that were made were fantastic. The music performed during the show was perfect, and the singing was very impressive. The band was under the stage to create a more natural setting and create a more real-life feeling for the show. After the event ended, actor Ben Lipitz, who played the carefree warthog Pumba, made a speech about their fundraiser. After it was mentioned, hundreds of visitors donated as each actor walked around the Buell Theatre with buckets full of money. It was mentioned earlier that the money not only went to the performance, but it also went to 50,000 Colorado students each year. The money also went to education programs and other programs that support theater arts. Not only did the show give a wonderful and phenomenal performance, but it was also a great experience for the students and staff at GVHS to be a part of. Anyone who has the opportunity to see the program should do so because it really is the opportunity of a lifetime

Striver of the Month By Dustin Weist, GVHS Sophomore Cara Young showed academic and athletic excellence by being named Striver of the Month for November. She was recognized for her great grades and extracurricular activities in Drama and Band. Young is also a part of Art Club, Knowledge Bowl and cheerleading. With these accomplishments, she became the Striver of the Month. When asked how she felt about being Striver of the Month, Cara said, “It feels really good that the students are being recognized for their hard work in class.” Not only does Cara demonstrate her excellence in the classroom, but outside the classroom as well. She continuously goes above and beyond the “normal” student duties by helping her peers and her community as well. Congratulations Cara for your accomplishments!

A well-earned Student of the Month By Jazmin McFarland, GVHS There is no surprise that senior Emily was Marbas titled Student of the Month for November at Grand Valley School. High Emily has been able to demonstrate a strong work ethic and other great qualities and characteristics through her school work, school involvement, and her service to the community. Emily played softball at Grand Valley High School for both her junior and senior year, and she will be playing golf in the spring. Emily is president of the Grand Valley Key Club, and has been working on many projects to get high school students involved in their community. She is also involved in Fellowship of Christian Athletes, Knowledge Bowl, and National Honor Society. Hoping that all of her hard work and dedication to her schoolwork and involvement within the community will pay off, Emily has been striving towards becoming a student at CU Boulder. When asked what Emily has been doing in order to accomplish her goals of attending CU and working towards becoming a doctor Emily says, “I work hard in my classes and I have been applying for scholarships.” Out of 1,300 applicants, Emily is a semi-finalist in for the Boettcher Scholarship. In order to receive the Boettcher Scholarship students must have scored at least a 27 on the ACT and be within the top 5 percent of their class. If Emily is to receive this it would be a great honor as she will be granted a fullride scholarship to any school in Colorado. “I’m excited about being a finalist, but I’m also nervous at the same time,” Emily explains as she talked about the opportunity she has been blessed with. Emily Marbas is a well-earned Student of the Month, and has demonstrated that hard work pays off. Thank you Emily for your contributions to Grand Valley High School and to the community. We wish the best for you and hope you are able to receive this scholarship as well as accomplish your goal of attending CU Boulder.

THIS PAGE SPONSORED BY:

GARFIELD COUNTY SCHOOL DISTRICT NO. 16 www.garcoschools.org

GRAND VALLEY ECHO • Mid-December 2011 / Mid-January 2012, Page 19

O U R Involving Parents and Children Grand Valley Center for Family Learning

S C H O O L S

Terrific Kids for November

Your greatest contribution to your child’s education By Rebecca Ruland, principal, Grand Valley Center for Family Learning Thomas Friedman, accomplished author of such books as “The World is Flat,” published an article in the Nov. 19 issue of {I} The New York Times {EI} about a parent’s role in education. While he affirms the need for high quality teachers and instruction, he also cites research about parent partnerships. Of the many ways a parent can support their child’s learning and success, what has the most impact? He reviewed a study from the Organization for Economic Cooperation and Development that looked at the world’s leading industrialized nations such as Singapore, Finland and Shanghai and their 15-year-olds. The students were tested on their reading comprehension and their ability to use what they have learned in math and science to solve real problems. When they interviewed the parents of students who scored well on these tests, they discovered that 15-year-old students whose parents often read books with them during their first year of primary school showed markedly higher scores than students whose parents read with them infrequently or not at all regardless of socioeconomic backgrounds. For some parents, limited time, language barriers or other factors/perceptions may prevent the daily routine of reading with/to children, even though this is the most inexpensive and powerful investment a parent can make in their child’s success. To support parents in this endeavor, beginning in January, our school will be collaborating with the Raising a Reader program to offer a three-class series called, Preparing Your Child for Reading Success. The curriculum is based on a four-year study from the University of Texas and teaches methods for building language and vocabulary, comprehension, as well as the ability to ask questions. This will require a three-night commitment spread over several months. We will have a bilingual facilitator, dinner and child care. Certificates of completion will also be provided. This series promises to be new, thought-provoking and useful. Please join us! Grand Valley Center for Family Learning is located at 100 E. Second St., Parachute, 285-5702.

The Parachute/Battlement Mesa Kiwanis Club sponsors Bea Underwood and St John elementary schools’ Terrific Kids. The program promotes character development and self-esteem. “TERRIFIC” is an acronym meaning Thoughtful, Enthusiastic, Respectful, Inclusive, Friendly, Inquisitive and Capable.

Bea Underwood Elementary School November’s Terrific Kids from Bea Underwood are, from left, first row, Bill Coelho (Kiwanis representative), Stephanie Gonzalez, Emma Jewell, Andrea Clegg, Chase Caudill, Alexa Dunahoo, Brian Berg (principal); second row, Tabitha Call, Janae Bond, Carlos Ortiz, Ellie Gardner, and Jenna Wood.

Preschool teachers, with the help of parents, hosted a Thanksgiving feast fit for kings. This event was enjoyed by nearly 200 people. Photo courtesy of GVCFL

From Bea Underwood Elementary School St John Elementary School

By Principal Brian Berg Happy Holidays! The staff and I at Bea Underwood Elementary appreciate your wonderful children and we wish you the best for the coming year. At Bea Underwood we pride ourselves in always improving. Your ideas, suggestions and feedback have been vital to our improvement plan. Education is about involving the whole community. Now the school district needs your input as we move towards a future of more state funding cutbacks. To some people, the future looks bleak. However, I look to the future as an opportunity to work together to create a new plan for education in Garfield 16.

November’s Terrific Kids from St John’s are, from left, first row, Levi Williamson, Ismael Pantaleon, Cheryl Wilkie, terrific girl whose name was missing (let us know who you are), Ethan Langstaff; second row, Bill Coelho (Kiwanis representative), Anahi Ruiz, Catrina Mayes, Kylie Miller, Shaya Chenoweth, Chase Dooley, Brandon Millius, and Kathy Keeling (principal).

Congratulations to all of November’s Terrific Kids!

THIS PAGE SPONSORED BY:

GARFIELD COUNTY SCHOOL DISTRICT NO. 16 www.garcoschools.org

Page 20, GRAND VALLEY ECHO • Mid-December 2011 / Mid-January 2012

FA I T H Living Nativity turns Parachute into Bethlehem By Charlie Hornick, Echo contributor

The town of Parachute looked a little like Bethlehem, at least at Beasley Park on Dec. 2. Several from area churches worked hard to share the Christmas story in readings, Christmas carols, and drama. The gazebo was turned into a stable and 28 in costume provided a setting for the fourth annual Living Nativity. One-month-old Micah Paul Farmer performed as the star of the program, playing baby Jesus. He had practiced for the program by doing lots of sleeping so when the time came for him to do his part, he gave a stellar performance. His mother, Kim, held him by the manger as his father, Jasson, played Joseph and looked on. The program, consisting of Scripture readings and carols, was put together by Father E.J. Rivet of the All Saints Episcopal Church. Lois Smith was the stage manager and assisted all in playing their parts in the program. Bob Toll, pastor of Grand Valley United Methodist Church led the caroling and, along with the people from his church, welcomed all into their fellowship hall for a time of hot chocolate, hot cider and cookies. The cast for the beautiful angels included Faith Humphrey, Raeanna Humphrey, Deisy Bernabe, Melissa Kingen, Michaela Puga and Rylie Sackett, as they were led by the lead angels, Krista Humphrey and Celina Sackett. Those who filled the role of the shepherds who watched their flocks by night and came to witness the sign of the baby in the manger were Kaleb Farmer, Noah Farmer, Preston Johnston, Kade Sackett, and Kyson Sackett. They were led by the chief shepherds, Amy Hamilton and Leif Sackett. Joe Worline, with a crown and toga, played the part of Herod. The wise men who inquired of Herod were Joseph Johnston, Steven Puga, and Benjamin Smith. Nathan Humphrey did an amazing job making the evening fun as the head wise guy. Desiree Smith was Elizabeth, the pregnant cousin of Mary, and the Roman guards were Andrew Kingen, Anthony Smith, Jonathan Smith, and Conner Sproles. The Scripture readers were Pastor Rich Counts of the Grand Valley Christian Church, Pastor Bob McNew of the Lighthouse Assembly of God, Jane Rivet, Trish Wilkerson, and Lisa Johnston. The choir that inspired all who came to join in the caroling consisted of Joe Casun, Deb Trujillo, Anita Elliott, Linda Elliott, and Bob Toll, with accompanist BJ Lindauer. Alice Smith worked hard at putting the cast together and was the costume designer and outfitter. Teri Richards worked hard at seeing that the whole event came together as somewhat of a producer, and assisted with advertising the event. Larry Sacca made the Bethlehem Star. Ron Miller and Pastor Jed Johnston coordinated the sound. And I assisted in the planning and preparation. The donkey, Newman, that was a big hit again this year, was provided by Valerie Cox. Kyle and Megan Zapel transported him to the event. Caley Gredig provided the goats, Pepper and Cream Puff, as well as two newborn kids that were a major attraction. The town of Parachute assisted again in allowing Beasley Park to be the appropriate scene for this year’s event and the Parachute Police Department blocked off part of Parachute Avenue for the people and animals to have an easier and safer access. The Living Nativity again this year gave all who attended an opportunity to reflect on the true meaning of Christmas and provided precious moments together of “peace on earth, goodwill toward men.”

Happy Holidays

Merry Christmas and have a Blessed and Safe New Year from all of us at VJ's Please join us for New Year’s Eve! Open 5:30 a.m. - 9 p.m. M-F • 6:30 a.m. - 9 p.m. Sat.-Sun. 315 E First Street • Parachute, Co. 81635 970-285-1917 • catering 970-285-7091

BEAT THOSE WINTER BLUES AND COME TAN WITH US IN OUR 12 MINUTE BRONZING BEDS. During the winter months, Colorado's water becomes very hard and brutal on our skin, nails and hair. Our water molecularly changes during the winter months. Our skin becomes cracked and dry. Treat your dry feet and hands to a spa pedicure or spa manicure. Replinish the moisture lost in your skin, hair and nails. We have the solution for the dry winter months.

TANNING SPECIALS: Single tan $6.00 10 Tanning sessions $35.00 Unlimited monthly $45.00

Hours: Tue. - Fri. 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. • Sat. 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. • Evenings available by appointment

101 CARDINAL WAY ACROSS FROM FAMILY DOLLAR IN PARACHUTE •

285-6664

GRAND VALLEY ECHO • Mid-December 2011 / Mid-January 2012, Page 21

As I See It Keeping Christ in Xmas By Pastor Charlie Hornick, Grace Bible Church Some of my fellow Christians have shared their concern about seeing the word “Xmas” on billboards and store windows. Without understanding the meaning of the “X,” some have concluded that using “Xmas” is an attempt to nudge Christ out of Christmas. However, the letter “X” in “Xmas” is the Greek letter “chi” and has for centuries been a symbol for Christ. Not only does the Greek word “Christos” start with “chi” but also the symbol reminds us of the cross that was at the center of Christ’s mission to Earth. Some trace the “X” as a symbol of Christ back to the first century when it had widespread use in the time of Constantine in the fourth century. We do know that it was used in early English in the 13th century and that “Xmas” and “Xianity” were common in early printed materials. The inventor of the printing press, Johannes Gutenberg, used “X” as a symbol for Christ quite often. Our Webster’s Dictionary acknowledges “Xmas” as “Christmas.” I am sure that there are some who write “Xmas” because they are too lazy or too hurried to write out the word. Advertisers may use it to save ink and space. No doubt there are probably some who want to “X” out the one who split history down the middle and made the greatest impact on the world than any other. I seldom use “Xmas” because of those who are misinformed about its meaning and I do not enjoy dealing with the hype and hysteria of a few unapprised zealots. Still these factors cannot take away the Christian origin of “Xmas.” The issue of taking Christ out of Christmas is not so much how we spell the word as it is in how we live its meaning. There are many ways we crowd out Christ. Commercialism, materialism, bad attitudes, impatience, and angry tempers declare we have lost what Christmas is supposed to be. The news of people hurting each other in the mad rush to buy Black Friday specials was a far cry from “Peace on Earth, Good will to men.” I heard of a 5-year-old who offered her own version of the Lord’s Prayer. “Forgive us our Christmases as we forgive those who Christmas against us.” Perhaps it’s time to add her words to the liturgy. But I have seen the true spirit of Christmas demonstrated in many ways in our Parachute/Battlement Mesa community already this year. Many are demonstrating the spirit of giving to others, displaying kindness and generosity, and focusing on things that matter. It was great to see the Living Nativity this year at Beasley Park for the fourth year in a row. It was a joy being together with those from different churches and backgrounds to read the Christmas story, sing Christmas carols, and reflect on the amazing gift of God. Our local LIFT-UP and area churches delivered many Thanksgiving baskets and will also deliver many Christmas baskets – all in a spirit of goodwill and caring. Our youth with Grand Valley Givers are doing a tremendous job along with the help of others in the community with the Christmas Giving Tree. Many families are having their season brightened by the thoughtful gifts of a warm item of clothing and a special gift for each child. Some of our area churches also were involved in giving well over 100 boxes for Samaritan’s Purse Operation Christmas Child. Children throughout the world in poverty-stricken areas will receive a wrapped, shoe size box with such things as a toothbrush, pen, pencil, crayons, toys, and knick-knacks. What really keeps Christ in Christmas is what is in the heart, not what is under the tree. And the spirit of Christmas needs to be all year round, not just on one day of the year. Mother Theresa said it well. “It is Christmas every time you let God love others through you. Yes, it is every time you smile at your brother and offer him your hand.” That’s the way to keep Christ in Xmas throughout the year!

FA I T H

• The Echo Worship Directory • To be listed in The Echo Worship Directory, please contact gve@crystalvalleyecho.com to set up an account, there is a small monthly fee of $10.

All Saints' Episcopal Church 150 Sipprelle Dr. Battlement Mesa 285-7908 Pastor's mobile: 985-5797 The Reverend Edmond-Joseph Rivet, Priest-in-charge Website: allsaintsepiscopal.info Church e-mail: office@allsaintsepiscopal.info Pastor e-mail: frej@allsaintsepiscopal.info SUNDAY Sunday Eucharist: 10:30 a.m. Choir: 9:30 a.m. Children's Godly Play: 10 a.m. WOW: Worship On Wednesday Contemplative Eucharist: 6 p.m. Soup Social: 6:30 p.m. Episcopal Theology: 7 p.m.

••• Crown Peak Baptist Church 101 W. Battlement Parkway Parachute 285-7946 crownpeakbaptist.com Rick Van Vleet, Senior Pastor Dan LaRue, Associate Pastor Matt Loftin, Youth Pastor Brian Jarrett, Minister of Music Sunday Morning Worship – 8:30 a.m. & 11 a.m. Sunday Morning Bible Study for all ages – 9:45 a.m. (Children's Church offered during 11 a.m. service) Wed. Night Dinner 5:30 p.m. Wed. Night Programs 6:30 p.m. (Adult, Children & Youth Groups) Small groups meet throughout the week ... Visit our website for more information.

Grace Bible Church

The Lighthouse

755 Spencer Parkway P.O. Box 6248 Battlement Mesa 285-9862 Charlie Hornick, Pastor Jed Johnston, Family Life Pastor Chastity McGillivray, GBC Child Care Missionary Intern, Amy Hamilton

(Assembly of God) 1833 S. Battlement Parkway Battlement Mesa 285-7236 or 379-5947 (Pastor's cell) Pastor: Dr. Robert C. McNew

SUNDAY Blessing Up for Church Broadcast 8 a.m. - 103.9 FM Sunday School: 9:30-10:15 a.m. Morning Worship: 10:30 a.m. Evening Service: 5:30 p.m. Youth / Children’s Activities Grace Bible Church Child Care: Mon – Fri. Boy Scouts – Call for days/times Awana: Tuesdays 6:30pm (Sept. – April) High School Youth: Sundays 5:00-7:00 p.m. Middle School Youth: Wed. 7:00-8:30 p.m. *Bible Studies, Special Activities (Call for times and places) Website: grace-bible-church.com 24-Hour Prayer Line: 256-4693

••• Grand Valley Christian Church Second Street & Parachute Avenue Parachute Richard Counts, Pastor 285-7597, 260-1080 e-mail: office@mygvcc.info Church Office 285-7597 Sunday worship 10:00 a.m.

••• Come -- Experience God's Power for life & living Know -- Christ through a loving family for fellowship Grow -- In Christ through a foundation of discipleship Go -- With Christ in a ministry of service with a focus for evangelism

••• Faith Baptist Church 235 N. Railroad Ave. Parachute John Yadloski, Pastor 285-7424 Sunday Sunday School: 9:45 a.m. Morning Worship: 11 a.m. Children’s Church: 11:15 a.m. Wednesday Bible Study: 7 p.m.

•••

Grand Valley United Methodist Church

SERVICES Sunday school: Sunday, 9:30 a.m. Worship service: Sunday, 10:30 a.m. (Children's Church & Nursery) Ladies’ Bible study and luncheon: Tuesday, 12-2 p.m.

••• Shepherd of the Mesa (WELS) Website: shepherdofthemesa.org Bill Cornelius, Pastor 987-3093 Youth Directors: Kristy and Rory Roder, Brandon Downing WORSHIP: Sunday at 10 a.m. Bible Information Class: Monday at 7 p.m. Family Bible Study: Wednesday at 7 p.m. Location: Historic Battlement Mesa Schoolhouse on County Road 300 Lutheran Catechism: Wednesday at 3 p.m. Women’s Bible Study Group: Monday at 9:30 a.m. Location: 12 Rosewood Way In Home Bible Study throughout the week. Call for times and locations in your area.

••• Wellspring of Life Church at Grand Valley Middle School

132 N. Parachute Ave. Parachute

0364 Sipprelle Drive Parachute

Dr. Bob Toll, Pastor Pastor David Bartlett Sunday Worship Service: 10 a.m. Contact Us P.O. Box 125, Parachute, CO 81635 285-9892

Sunday Service Time: 10 a.m. Youth and Children’s Sunday School 210-5795 210-5849

••• grandvalleyumc@qwestoffice.net

•••

Page 22, GRAND VALLEY ECHO • Mid-December 2011 / Mid-January 2012

A R O U N D

T H E

VA L L E Y

Bells will be ringing… Members of the Kiwanis Club of Parachute/Grand Valley are busy ringing the bell for the Salvation Army's Red Kettle Campaign in front of Clark's Market in Battlement Mesa. They are, from left, Bob Prendergast, Steve Randol, who's the Kiwanis Red Kettle volunteer coordinator, and Dan Chance, all of Battlement Mesa. Photo by Roberta McGowan

Where’s Redstone?

PUBLISHER’S NOTE: Where’s Redstone – and why should you care? The Grand Valley Echo’s nine-year old sister, The Crystal Valley Echo, is based in Redstone and is the monthly newspaper for the Crystal Valley. Besides, Redstone is a perfect, quick getaway for Grand Valleyites. Get to know your sister: Come visit.

By Carrie Click, Echo editor The weather outside is certainly cold, but it’s not exactly a white Christmas in the Grand Valley – at least at press time. We’re hoping things will change – who doesn’t love a fresh blanket of the white stuff on Christmas morning? – but in the meantime, if you want to get a blast of Old Man Winter, you might want to head up the Crystal Valley to Redstone. Redstone is only about an hour away from Parachute and Battlement, but since it’s several thousand feet higher and in another ecosystem, the snow sticks. You can walk around the village, or throw snowballs at

each other in Redstone Park. If you want to take it easy, take a sleigh ride (or a carriage ride if the snow is skimpy) up and down Redstone Boulevard – or even a winter horseback ride with Avalanche Outfitters. And if you travel upvalley on the weekends, you can take a tour of the Redstone Castle, which is all decorated for the holidays. Just getting to Redstone is a pleasant experience. Redstone is located on Highway 133, 18 miles south of Carbondale. Take I-70 to Glenwood Springs and Highway 82 to the junction of Highway 133 at Carbondale. Think snow, happy holidays and hope to see you in Redstone!

New this year…

Back by popular demand…

Winter Trail Rides

Winter Sliegh Rides

Christmas Tree Rides Call for reservations…

Book your winter adventure by calling 963-1144 or 963-2526

redstonecolorado.com

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THE HEART OF REDSTONE WITH A UNIQUE SELECTION OF CENTERPIECES FOR YOUR HOME! REDSTONE CASTLE TOUR TICKETS AVAILABLE HERE! OPEN YEAR ROUND • OPEN DAILY

970-963-1769 225 Redstone Blvd. • Redstone

REDSTONE CASTLE TOURS Friday, Saturday, Sunday, Monday • 1:30 p.m. Tickets: $15 adults, $10 seniors, children 5-18 Children under 5: FREE (FOR GROUP TOURS CALL 970-963-9656) Tickets available at Tiffany of Redstone, the Redstone General Store and Crystal Club Cafe. CASH OR CHECK ONLY

www.redstonecastle.us

GRAND VALLEY ECHO • Mid-December 2011 / Mid-January 2012, Page 23

THE ECHO CLASSIFIEDS FOR RENT: FOR RENT: BATTLEMENT MESA – 3 BD/2 BA condo, washer/dryer, AC, 1 car garage, lots of storage; activity center dues included. First month rent ($1,200) and security ($1,200) due upon signing. NS, pets considered. Call 704-0373.

THE GRAND VALLEY ECHO CLASSIFIED ADS Only $10 for up to 40 words! (25¢/word after that).

Classified ads MUST be prepaid. Mail your check to: 274 Redstone Blvd., Redstone, CO 81623 and E-MAIL YOUR AD COPY TO: gve@crystalvalleyecho.com

SERVICE DIRECTORY For all your professional plumbing needs Service Work • Boilers • Water Heaters Furnaces • Coolers • Remodels • Leaks Gas • Controls • Radiant Heat

Rocky Mountain Pizza & Cones CHRISTMAS SPECIALS Any large pizza, 12 wings and a 2 litre drink for OR Two Family Pepperoni Pizzas only $1999

970-285-2253 • 71 Tamarisk Trail

Steve’s Painting & Decorating Inc. New Construction, Commercial & Mold Prevention

#1 IN A #2 BUSINESS 24 HOUR EMERGENCY SERVICE! DEBEQUE TO ASPEN RESIDENTIAL • COMMERCIAL • MUNICIPAL • Electronic locate • Rooter work • Unclog lines and drains • RootX Treatments • Hydro-jet of lines/grease traps • Septic tank inspections • Camera/Video inspection of lines 2” to 36” CALL RICK or SCOTT

Carrie Click Writer + Proofer + Editor • Basic and Full Service Oil Changes • Automatic Transmission Flushes • Tire Sales • ASE Certified Mechanic on duty full-time

970-930-0124

285-9217

P.O. BOX 1349 • RIFLE, CO 81650

120 S. Columbine Ct. • Parachute

Help for any writing project

970-930-0056 clickintoplace@yahoo.com

TO RUN YOUR AD IN THE GRAND VALLEY ECHO SERVICE DIRECTORY CALL 285-7634 TODAY!

Page 24, GRAND VALLEY ECHO • Mid-December 2011 / Mid-January 2012