• Serving the Grand Valley since 2008 •
Providing a voice for community-based organizations and individuals that enrich the life of the Grand Valley Volume 5 Number 2
INSIDE
FREE
Mid-November/ Mid-December 2012
I-70's Exit 72:
A new way to exit and access West Parachute Food Drive page 3
Sports & Rec page 7
Our Schools pages 10 & 11
New nurse practitioner page 16
Exit 72, the West Parachute interchange, officially opened on Oct. 31 – but don't try to access it just yet. Closed signs are still in place as of press time so that roundabout and road construction work can be completed. Although there's still work to be done, crews moved quickly; just a month earlier on Oct. 9, the on and offramps were still dirt and looked a long way off from being finished. Construction was moved up from 2013 to this year, with work beginning in late March. The new interchange, at $12 million, was designed to free up congestion at the main I-70/Parachute interchange, providing easier access for energy industry traffic. And with Encana's new field office now open nearby and just north of the interstate, town officials and energy industry leaders anticipate that the area surrounding the new exit will eventually fill in with commercial entities. Photo by Carrie Click
Page 2, GRAND VALLEY ECHO • Mid-November/Mid-December 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.
A politically-motivated boycott at VJ’s Ribbs? Dear Echo: Jean and Geno Johnson of VJ’s Outlaw Ribbs in Parachute have been boycotted by a number of Republicans after they hosted a breakfast for Garfield County Democrats on Oct. 13. Four days after the event, Geno was allegedly contacted by a customer and learned from two Parachutebased energy industry employees that someone had sent an email to employees telling them to boycott VJ's because they hosted the Democrats. In addition, former Bronco Vance Johnson texted his mother Jean a screen shot he took of his Facebook page, where someone had posted a racist death threat for “helping Democrats.” Vance is a Republican. Since then, several things have occured: Several people tried to locate the actual email and/or to find the photo and boycott post on the Internet. West GarCo Dems via the Battlement Concerned Citizens contacted an energy industry company for their response, in which they denied knowledge of any such memo/email and that they “would not condone or tolerate this type of behavior.” Colorado Sen. Gail Schwartz, while meeting with energy executives in Denver, sternly spoke to them about what she had learned. They assured her they would make sure that their employees were not involved. I alerted West GarCo Dems to please support the Johnsons through dining at their restaurant and alerting sympathetic community members. The Republican party and the Tea Party have held multiples of events at VJ's. For the Republicans who are all about the Constitution and protecting small businesses, they are running a small business out of business over their politics. The Johnsons have been losing hundreds of dollars a day for almost an entire month. They need our help and our voices. Parachute and Battlement Mesa can ill afford the approximately 15 people that will be left unemployed if the Johnsons are forced out of business. Things we can do immediately: Support VJ's Outlaw Ribbs with your business and enlighten/encourage others to Write letters to editors making our communities aware, supporting the Johnsons, and calling out the political divisiveness and bigotry for what they are; Thanks much for reading this and for any ideas and support you can provide myself and/or the Johnsons in getting their business back. I always believe in the power and the heart of the people. All the best, Kim Wille Carbondale
PEO IW says thank you
Dear Echo: The members of the Philanthropic Educational Organization’s (PEO) Chapter IW would like to thank all who attended our annual Fall Fashion Show on Oct. 20.
Your support helps us award scholarships for local women so they can continue their education. We would also like to give a special thank you to the following: Battlement Mesa Activity Center for the use of their facility; Plum Creek Cellars, DeBeque Canyon Winery and Carlson Vineyards (all located in Palisade) for their participation with their wines; Herberger’s, Miller’s Dry Goods, Christopher & Banks/CJ Banks, Dress Barn, Children’s Place and Gymboree for supplying the clothes for our models; and Old Mountain Gifts and Jewelry for supplying jewelry for our models to wear. We would also like to thank our BILs (husbands of the PEO sisters) for being our wine stewards and escorts again this year. Without the support of the community and these businesses, our fashion show wouldn’t have been as successful as it was. We hope to see you all again next October. Karen Klink PEO IW Public Relations
News from Fran Storm, a favorite former Grand Valleyite The Echo received the following letter from Fran Storm, who lived in Battlement Mesa for many years and was an integral part of the Battlement Mesa Activity Center and the community. We thought readers would like to know what Fran has been up to since she left the area. Dear Echo: It is fun to keep up with Battlement Mesa via your paper. I am indeed busy in my new community, president of the Seniors, first vice president for the SAC Wayne County division, a New York senior group, on the hospitality committee for the King’s Daughters and chairperson of the Village Christmas event. I have tried sitting. It doesn't work. There are so many wonderful cultural events in this area. I am a happy camper. I certainly miss my friends and the mountains of Colorado, making new memories with the lakes and wine of Upper New York state and the people who live here. Take care and continued success with the paper. Fran Storm
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.
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.
PUBLISHER/DESIGNER ALYSSA OHNMACHT EDITOR CARRIE CLICK ASSISTANT COPY EDITOR JAE JULGRAN ADVERTISING SALES BARBARA PAVLIN
285-7634 The Grand Valley Echo is published monthly, and is distributed throughout Battlement Mesa and Parachute. Subscriptions are available for a $35 annual fee.
DISTRIBUTION/CIRCULATION STEVE PAVLIN Dawn Distribution • 963-0874
274 REDSTONE BLVD., REDSTONE, COLORADO 81623 970-963-2373 • gve@crystalvalleyecho.com
Charlie Hornick, LIFT-UP, Renelle Lott, Greg Rippy, M.E. Denomy, Rifle Funeral Home, the Jays, Dr. Laurie Marbas, Battlement Mesa Ladies Golf Club, Sara McCurdy, Mary Anderson, Rob Ferguson, Colorado Mountain College, Kelsy Been, St. Mary’s, Anne Huber, Jeanne Miles, Ashlynn Speakman, Sierra Berger, Shannia Burns, Collin Weeks, Joy Kemper, Cary Parmenter, Kathy Germano, Mitzi Burkhart, Mt. Callahan Steering Committee, Annick Pruett, Ann Galloway, Betsy Leonard, KSUN Community Radio, Roberta McGowan, Grand Valley United Methodist Church, PEO Chapter IP
GRAND VALLEY ECHO • Mid-November/Mid-December 2012, Page 3
Food drive for LIFT-UP is making a difference By Charlie Hornick, Echo contributor
Volunteers serve guests at The Extended Table Soup Kitchen in Photo courtesy of LIFT-UP Glenwood Springs.
LIFT-UP's Extended Table Soup Kitchen now extends to Rifle LIFT-UP began hosting an Extended Table Soup Kitchen in RIfle each Tuesday from 5-6 p.m. beginning Oct. 16 at the Rifle United Methodist Presbyterian Church in the Lovell Building, 200 E. Fourth St. in Rifle. The Extended Table started in 1995 and has been serving nutritious meals each weekday for the past 17 years in the basement of the First United Methodist Church in Glenwood Springs. The meals are prepared and served by volunteer groups. Last year the Glenwood location served 13,400 meals. This year about 1,200 meals per month have been served to roughly 60 people each weeknight. LIFT-UP is pleased to be able to now offer this service to anyone in need in the Rifle area. – LIFT-UP
The Grand Valley/Parachute Kiwanis Food Drive took place on Oct. 27 on “National Make a Difference Day.” Thanks to a multitude of volunteers, more than three tons of food is now available for the holidays and for the coming year for the valuable ministry of LIFT-UP. Hundreds of households gave food and many volunteers assisted in collecting and sorting the boxes, cans and packages. Those who witnessed the diligent work of youth and adults at the St John Community Center came away with big smiles. Well over half of the volunteers were young people. The Builders Club from Grand Valley Middle School and the Key Club from Grand Valley High School, along with volunteers from Grace Bible Church stuffed fliers into the plastic bags donated by Clark’s Market. Close to 3,000 bags were then distributed a week before the food drive throughout area by these youth along with Boy Scout Troop 255, the Kiwanians, employees of the Town of Parachute and other volunteers from the community. Residents were asked to fill the sacks with non-perishable items. The response was phenomenal. On the beautiful and sunny day of the food drive, Top, Boxes of food are loaded onto volunteers filled the gym at St John and sorted the trucks after they are sorted, center. food, which was then transported to the new LIFT-UP Bottom, Boy Scout Food Bank in Parachute. Connor Sproles The LIFT-UP Food Bank serves local families in delivers a box of need. LIFT-UP is an acronym for Life Interfaith Team food to the LIFT-UP Food Bank. on Unemployment and Poverty. Utilization of the food bank has increased more than 100 percent in the past Photos courtesy couple of years. This year’s food drive will prove to of Charlie make the holidays brighter and easier for many. Hornick
Page 4, GRAND VALLEY ECHO • Mid-November/Mid-December 2012
G O 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. • Nov. 17: 11 a.m.-4 p.m. Home for The Holidays Shopping Event is at the Battlement Mesa Activity Center, 0398 Arroyo Dr., Battlement. • Nov. 17: The 30th annual Craft Fair is at the Grand Valley High School gymnasium. Original, hand crafted items; shop at home for gifts or for items for your home that are unique. There will be home baked goods for sale, as well. The school groups will have a few booths too. parachutebattlementparkandrecreation.org. • Nov. 17: 7-10:30 p.m. Battlement Mesa Schoolhouse Community Dance. Come at 7 p.m. for a dance class; dance starts at 8 p.m. Dances are held monthly, on the third Saturday of the month. Free, though donations gratefully accepted. Susanne, 250-6262; Judi, 285-9696. • Nov. 20: 7 a.m. The Kiwanis Club of Grand Valley/Parachute meets in 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. • Nov. 20: 10 a.m. Tips, Topics and Talks on Tuesdays. “Pamper Yourself Day" Treat yourself to hand dips and chair massages. Put your creativity to use in making holiday gift bags. Refreshments will be served. Everyone is welcome. Valley Senior Center, 540 N. Parachute Ave. • Nov. 20: 12 p.m. Ladies Who Do Lunch Bunch meet at the Parachute Branch Library to discuss “Defending Jacob” by William Landay. Enjoy a potluck lunch. 285-9870. • Nov. 22: Happy Thanksgiving. • Nov. 26: 3 p.m. Anime Club. Meet at the Parachute Branch Library to talk about your favorites, get recommendations, and practice your drawing skills. 285-9870. • Nov. 27: 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. • Nov. 30: 6-8 p.m. Opening reception for Jack Roberts’ painting exhibit at CMC Rifle. 3695 Airport Rd. Rifle. RSVP to Crystal Schiller at 947-8361. • Dec. 1: 7 p.m. KSUN Holiday Gala at the Battlement Mesa Activity Center. Advance tickets are $30 and available at the activity center, Alpine Bank and Old Mountain Gift and Jewelry.
• Dec. 4: 7 a.m. The Kiwanis Club of Grand Valley/Parachute meets in 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. • Dec. 5: 1 p.m. Crochet for Christmas at the Parachute Branch Library, 244 Grand Valley Way. Know how to make a simple chain? Need some very quick Christmas gifts? Bring a “G” crochet hook and a hunk of yarn. Class limited to 10, so sign up now by calling 285-9870 or stopping by the library. • Dec. 6: 5:30-8:30 p.m. The Energy Advisory Board meets to encourage positive communication and responsible energy development at the Rifle Branch Library, 207 East Ave., Rifle. For topics, more, go to garfield-county.com/oilgas/energy-advisory-board.aspx, or contact Denice Brown at 625-5915. • Dec. 6: 6 p.m. Wrap it Up. Need time and space to wrap up those gifts? Join us at the Parachute Branch Library for big tables and lots of space so you can wrap away. And don’t worry, no one will tell your loved ones what they’re getting for Christmas. Even enjoy some refreshments while you toil away. 285-9870. • Dec. 8: 9 a.m.-12 p.m. Grand Valley United Methodist Church in Parachute has its annual Holiday Cookie and Craft Sale in the church’s Fellowship Hall at 132 North Ave. • Dec. 8: 1-4 p.m. Holiday Home Tour, presented by the PEO Chapter IP tours four Battlement Mesa and Parachute homes. Ticket are $10; proceeds provide scholarships to local graduating students. To purchase tickets, call 285-5627 or 2851112. • Dec. 8: Kid’s Christmas at the Battlement Mesa Activity Center. Mr. and Mrs. Claus will be there with gifts for the children. Cookies will be provided by the Grand River Hospital. • Dec. 11: 7 a.m. The Kiwanis Club of Grand Valley/Parachute meets in 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. • Dec. 11: 10 a.m. Tackle it Tuesday at the Parachute Library. Calling all quilters, stampers, needle crafters and scrapbookers. There will be tables, irons, ironing boards and cutting mats all set up for your convenience. Drop in and bring your proj-
ect for a day of crafting, food and friends. Bring your own lunch, refreshments will be provided. 285-9870. • Dec. 11: 3:30-5 p.m. The Battlement Mesa Service Association’s Oil and Gas Committee meets at the Battlement Mesa Activity Center. The public is welcome. 285-9432. • Dec. 14: Last day to submit comments regarding the BLM’s draft White River Resource Management Plan Oil and Gas Amendment. For more info go to www.blm.gov/…oom/2012/august/blm_ proposes_plan.html .
ONGOING • The Parachute Branch Library hosts Story Times, including Toddler Story Time, Ready to Read Story Time and Bilingual Story Time on a regular basis each week. Lots of other reading clubs and events for all ages meet at the library as well. 285-9870. • The Battlement Mesa Activity Center has a variety of exercise classes for preschoolers to seniors. Call Anne, 285-9480. • Castle Tours: Guided holiday tours of the Historic Redstone Castle Saturdays & Sundays at 1:30 p.m. Tickets available at Redstone General Store and Tiffany of Redstone. $15 for adults and $10 for seniors / children, free for kids under 5 yrs. More info 963-9656 or redstonecastle.us. • Every Monday from 12:45-4 p.m., Party Bridge is held at the Battlement Mesa Activity Center. All levels welcome. • Every Monday from 12-1 p.m. the Grand Valley United Methodist Church serves a free soup lunch at the church at 132 Parachute Ave. • 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 Roxie Jones at 285-9791 and Patsy Noel at 285-2472 for more info. • 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., 800-272-3900, 9873184. • 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. • Every Tuesday, a group plays pinochle at 1:30 p.m. at the Parachute Valley Senior Center. Call Cheryl at 285-9755 for information or to arrange a needed ride. The senior center is located at 540 N. Parachute Ave., Parachute. • 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. • Grand Mesa Chorus rehearses every Tuesday from 6:30-9:30 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. • Neighborhood Watch meets the second Tuesday of the month at 7 p.m. at Parachute Town Hall, 222 Grand Valley Way, Parachute. 285-7630. • 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. • 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, 285-0388, 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 11:30 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. • 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. • Every last Wednesday of the month from
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**Not valid on Valentine’s Day
5-6 p.m., an Alzheimer’s caregiver support group meets at Alpine Hospice, 1517 Blake Ave., Suite 100B in Glenwood. Andrea, 471-9312. • 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 Paul, 285-7791. • Common Ground meets the fourth Wednesday of the month at 3:30 p.m. at the Battlement Mesa Activity Center. The group is comprised of citizens from Parachute and Battlement Mesa who are committed to working together for a better community. All residents interested in contributing their time and energy for the betterment of Battlement and Parachute are encouraged to attend. • 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, 2852318, or the church, 285-9892, to join in. • The first Thursday of every month from 5:30-8:30 p.m., the Energy Advisory Board meets to encourage positive communication and responsible energy development at the Rifle Branch Library, 207 East Ave., Rifle. For topics, more, go to garfield-county.com/oil-gas/energy-advisory-board.aspx, or contact Denice Brown at 625-5915. • The second Thursday of every month, One Moment meets, which is a support group for bereaved parents who have experienced pregnancy loss, stillbirth, or early infant loss. Meetings are led by Marcia Villarreal and Amanda EmersonBurger at the Glenwood Insurance Agency, 1605 Grand Ave., Glenwood, from 6:308:30 p.m. 963-7110, 379-5387. • Seniors age 60 and older and disabled of any age may ride The Traveler, a wheelchair-accessible van with door-to-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 • Every Friday from 9-9:30 a.m. “Community Connections” hosts interviews with community members on KSUN 103.9 FM.
GRAND VALLEY ECHO • Mid-November/Mid-December 2012, Page 5
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Commissioners approve funding for air emissions study By Renelle Lott, chief communications officer, Garfield County The Garfield Board of County Commissioners (BOCC) has signed a formal agreement with Colorado State University (CSU) to provide substantial funding for an academic study to collect data on air emissions surrounding well pad activities in Garfield County. The BOCC committed $1 million towards the $1.77 million study from its Oil and Gas Mitigation Fund. The balance of study funding will come from gifts to CSU, including from oil and gas companies. The air emissions study will be conducted over a three-year period beginning this fall, and concluding in the fall of 2015. The BOCC expressed unanimous support for the
project and finalization of the intergovernmental agreement (IGA) now allows CSU researchers to conduct the study. The IGA outlines that the purpose of the project is to quantify air emissions emitted from natural gas drilling and well completion operations, which include hydraulic fracturing and flow back processes. Air emissions will be measured at various distances, upwind and downwind, from several well sites across Garfield County. The project scope is not designed to, and will not consider or quantify impacts, including health impacts, that potential pollutants or their concentrations may have. Instead, the air emissions data will be made available for public use. The IGA requires timely disclosure of any hazardous conditions that may
GRAND VALLEY ENERGY A monthly column by M.E. Denomy, CPA
Getting prepared for tax season Indeed it is only November, but us accountant types are already prepping for our special time. No, I don’t mean Christmas, but tax season. I know all of you are saying “Ugh, not yet”, but being prepared for the future certainly can help you make good decisions. All of the candidates for office were talking about the need to beef up Medicare in order to ensure its survival. To help protect Medicare, in 2010, the government passed a new tax that will be charged only against certain types of income and only upon people who exceed a certain level of income. For folks who receive oil and gas royalty income, interest income, dividend income and other income that is considered “passive income,” they may have to pay an additional 3.8 percent tax to help beef up Medicare starting in 2013. Income must exceed $200,000 for single people or $250,000 for married couples before the tax kicks in. Those whose income is less than $200,000 will not have to pay this tax except for those who have their income in what is called a trust. Trusts actually have to be set up, usually with a lawyer. Oil and gas royalty income, as well as other types of passive income, could be taxed at an income rate of as low as $12,000 if there is not some pre-planning done with your tax preparer. Now, that you are prepared for the next tax season, get those turkeys and pumpkin pies ready and have a happy Thanksgiving.
be discovered in the course of the study. CSU will provide progress reports and submit monthly invoices to the county; however, documents, data, methodologies and results will remain confidential property of CSU until all data are collected, reviewed and provided as a whole to the public at the conclusion of the study. The proposal from CSU for the study, titled Characterizing Air Emissions from Natural Gas Drilling and Well Completion Operations in Garfield County, Colorado, and the associated IGA, as well as press releases regarding the study, are available on the Garfield County website at garfield-county.com/airquality/air-emissions-study.aspx.
Garfield County Federal Mineral Lease District announces fall grant recipients By Greg Rippy, GFMLD
The Garfield Federal Mineral Lease District Board of Directors recently awarded grants to the following entities during its fall 2012 grant cycle. Awards in the traditional grant program were made to: Garfield County Library District - $50,000 Glenwood Springs Parks & Recreation $270,000 Town of New Castle - $231,000 Parachute Park & Recreation - $ 350,000 City of Rifle - $217,000 Ross Montessori School - $150,000 Town of Silt - $319,328
Awards in the mini grant program were made to: Battlement Mesa Metropolitan District $23,250 Town of Carbondale - $24,690 Garfield County Housing Authority - $18,000 Garfield County Library District - $24,690 Garfield School District No. 16 - $25,000 Town of New Castle - $25,000 City of Rifle - $25,000 Town of Silt - $25,000
The grants awarded for the fall 2012 grant cycle totaled $1,777,958.10. The grants awarded for the traditional grant program totaled $ 1,587,328.10. The grants awarded for the mini grant program totaled $190,630. The spring 2013 grant cycle will begin in February with award announcements anticipated in April.
Settlement reached in lawsuit by Grand Valley entities against Garco’s commissioners By Renelle Lott, Garfield County
The Garfield Board of County Commissioners (BOCC) signed a settlement agreement in midOctober with the Western Colorado Congress, Paul Light, and the Grand Valley Citizens Alliance regarding a lawsuit alleging the BOCC violated Colorado’s Open Meetings Law (OML). The agreement centered on a March 27, 2012 meeting in Vernal, Utah, which the commissioners addressed in public meetings in advance, but did not provide notice of the meeting. Under the settlement, the BOCC is sending a letter to the Bureau of Land Management (BLM) notifying the BLM that Resolution 12-14, which was submitted as the BOCC’s public comments on BLM’s 2012 Oil Shale and Tar Sands Programmatic Environmental Impact Statement, has been rescinded. The BOCC agreed to pay $7,500 in attorney’s fees to plaintiffs. “As I said at the time we rescinded the resolution, I do not believe that continued litigation is in the best interest of the citizens of Garfield County,” Commissioner Mike Samson said. The BOCC also agreed not to consider adopting a resolution that addresses the BLM’s 2012 Oil Shale and Tar Sands Programmatic Environmental Impact Statement in the future, unless the BOCC has publicly posted a notice at least 14 calendar days prior to the public meeting at which the resolution will be considered, and that the BOCC will hear public comment on the proposed resolution prior to making a decision. The lawsuit against the BOCC was dismissed as part of the settlement.
Page 6, GRAND VALLEY ECHO • Mid-November/Mid-December 2012
O B I T U A R I E S
Frederick William Hopper Sept. 16, 1921 – Sept. 28, 2012
Lori Kay (Kemper) West Dec. 29, 1961 – Oct. 21, 2012 Lori Kay West of Fresno, Calif. passed away on Oct. 21 after a long battle with cancer. She was 50. She was preceded in death by her husband Robert West III. She is survived by her two children, Tamara, 23 and Robert (BJ) IV, 19, and a brother, Lindsey Kemper, of Millikin, Colo. Lori was the daughter of Leon Kemper of Estes Park, Colo. and Joy Kemper of Battlement Mesa. Lori was a loving mother and loved by all who knew her. Lori was an advocate of advanced education and both of her children are in college. Tamara is studying psychology and working with children with disabilities and BJ is learning computer science. Lori loved animals and was a caretaker to any stray cat or dog. A memorial was held by her children for Nov. 4 at their home in Fresno.
"Some bright morning when this life is over, I'll fly away--" On Sept. 28, 2012, Fred boarded his final glider flight to the heavens leaving behind his beloved wife Mary; his daughters Tracy Tatro and Kirn Dominguez (Jesse); grandchildren Chris Tatro‚ and Shannon Tatro Ponce; nephews Tommy, Fred, Ricky and Eddie Johnson and families. He also leaves behind many dear and long-time friends. Fred was 91. Fred grew up in Denver's Park Hill neighborhood, enjoying adventurous family forays into the mountains and excursions on Denver's big boxy street cars. He graduated from D.U. with degrees in chemistry, math and physics. He was interested in the electronics industry from the days of crystal set receivers to the marvelous devices of today. Along with two other D.U. graduates he founded Rocky Mountain Research Lab, now Great Western Inorganics. For many years, he worked for Martin Marietta. Fred was a member of the team on the first Mars mission in 1976. In 2011 he was a member of the final Western Slope Honor Flight to Washington DC for World War II veterans. He will be remembered for his great love of his family. Hobbies were mathematics, photography, writing, cartooning,skiing, flying, fishing, hiking and biking. "I'll fly away to a place where joys will never end" To honor Fred's memory donations may be made to Colorado State Veterans Nursing Horne, 851 E. Fifth St., Rifle, CO 81650 Online condolences may be made at rifleruneralhome.com.
Dear Heather, Four years ago you left us. We miss you every single day, and ask on this anniversary that people stop and remember Heather for a few minutes, her smile, her kind nature, and her joy in life. Heather, we know that you are watching over all of us. We miss and love you so very much. – Mom and Dad
GRAND VALLEY ECHO • Mid-November/Mid-December 2012, Page 7
S P O R T S
Battlement Mesa Ladies Golf Club gives out 2012 awards The Battlement Mesa Ladies Golf Club scramble and luncheon, held on Oct. 2, recognized members for their achievements during the season. DiAnn Robertson is this year’s 18-hole Low Gross Club Champion and Nancy Swenson is the nine-hole Low Gross Champion. Connie Stiers finished the tournament as 18-hole Low Net winner and Barb Pavlin is the nine-hole Low Net winner. The match play winners this year are Connie Stiers for 18 holes and Nancy Swenson for nine holes. Their runners-up are Sue Knuth and Judi Gentilcore. The top seven places in the season-long points game went to Sue Knuth, Betty Mosby, Karen Elsea, Nancy Swenson, Paula Coons, Barb DiAnn Robertson is the Pavlin and Connie Stiers. Battlement Mesa Ladies Golf Club Margaret Cooke received the Most Improved Player award for 2012; 18-hole Low Gross Champion. Barb Pavlin played every Tuesday of the season; and the Ringer Board Photo courtesy of Battlement winners are Sandi Saxton and Paula Coons for the 18-hole players and Mesa Ladies Golf Club Barb Pavlin and Sharon Temple in the nine-hole competition. In new awards this year, the club recognized the members who scored the most chip-ins, birdies and eagles. Margaret Prater was the only member who executed a chip-in that resulted in an eagle; Karen Elsea posted seven chip-ins and Paula Coons and Sue Knuth scored three birdies each. The 2012 season went very well and the club is looking forward to April when the new season begins. – Sara McCurdy, Battlement Mesa Ladies Golf Club
Holiday safety preparedness tips from the Red Cross By Grand Valley Deputy Fire Chief Rob Ferguson • Stay in the kitchen when you are frying, grilling or broiling food. If you must leave the kitchen unattended for even a short period of time, turn off the stove. • If you are simmering, baking, boiling or roasting food, check it regularly, remain in the home while food is cooking and use a timer to remind you that the stove or oven is on. • Avoid wearing loose clothing or dangling sleeves while cooking. • Keep kids away from cooking areas by enforcing a "kid-free zone" of three feet around the stove. • Keep anything that can catch on fire such as pot holders, oven mitts, wooden utensils, paper or plas-
tic bags, food packaging, towels or curtains away from your stovetop, oven or any other appliance in the kitchen that generates heat. • If you must use a turkey fryer, make sure it is outdoors and in an open area away from all walls, fences or other structures that could catch on fire. Also keep the fryer away from moisture that can cause serious burns from steam or splattering hot oil. Always follow the manufacturer’s instructions. • Smoke alarms save lives. Install a smoke alarm near your kitchen and use the test button to check it each month. Replace all batteries at least once a year. • After your Thanksgiving guests leave, ask a family member to perform a home safety check to ensure that all candles and smoking materials are extinguished
Echo Briefs Local artist Jack Roberts’ paintings featured at CMC Rifle exhibit Parachute’s Judi Hayward is sponsoring an art exhibit at Rifle’s Colorado Mountain College campus starting on Nov. 30. The exhibit focuses on the work of Jack Roberts, who for 50 years, depicted the history and spirit of western life in his own distinctive style. In his studio located near Redstone he created as many as 40 paintings a year. Jack’s son, Gary Miller of Rifle will discuss his father’s work at an opening reception from 6-8 p.m. at the Rifle campus, 3695 Airport Rd. Rifle. RSVP to Crystal Schiller at 947-8361 if you would like to attend the reception. – CMC
Karol Sacca receives librarian award Parachute Branch Library Manager Karol Sacca recently received the Lucy Schweers Award for Excellence in Paralibrarianship at the 2012 Colorado Association of Libraries Conference. This award is given to a librarian who displays outstanding leadership and service, as well as
excellence in the library, information or media field within the state of Colorado. Nominees must directly or indirectly serve patrons and communities in a way that goes beyond basic requirements of his or her job. Karol was selected among a number of nominees from throughout Colorado. – Kelsy Been, Garfield County Libraries
St. Mary’s Christmas Bazaar Find that special gift at St. Mary’s traditional Christmas Holiday Bazaar, beginning at 8:30 a.m. on Nov. 17 at Seventh and Birch streets in Rifle. The bazaar will feature vintage linens, dated collectibles, unique ornaments, gift baskets, hand-crafted items, bling, home decor and much more. Stock your pantry with homemade goodies and garden-fresh canned goods from the country kitchen. Enjoy hot cinnamon rolls and beverages from 8:30-10:00 a.m. and then stay for lunch. Soup, beverage and dessert will be served from 11:30 a.m.-1 p.m. Raffle tickets will be available for an authentic American Girl doll, complete with wardrobe, book and hand crafted decorated cradle. For further info, call 625-5115 or email divagram@q.com. – St. Mary’s
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Parachute/Battlement Mesa Park and Recreation District
The 30th annual Craft Fair is on Nov. 17 at Grand Valley High School By Mary Anderson, Parachute/Battlement Mesa Park and Recreation director
Fall soccer has wrapped up. The U12 Girls are league champions. Thank you coaches and referees. Battlement Mesa/Parachute New Community Park: Proceeds from the Common Ground Community Classic Golf Tournament totaled more $11,000. In addition, the Park and Recreation District will be receiving a grant from the Garfield County Federal Mineral Lease District (FMLD) in the amount of $350,000 to help with Phase One of the park’s construction. Obtaining the grant was a team effort and we are all very pleased that the FMLD board chose the district to receive some of the funds available. Adult Co-ed Volleyball: There are nine teams participating in the fall season. Games are scheduled at 6:30 p.m. and 7:30 p.m. on Tuesday evenings at the Battlement Mesa Activity Center. Babysitting is provided for the little ones. This is always a fun program for adults. Stop by if you would like to watch some of the adult volleyball action. Youth Girls Basketball: There is a third/fourth grade team and a fifth/sixth grade team in the 2012 fall Colorado River League. Practices are held on Wednesday and Thursday evenings, and games are held on Saturdays. Practices are at the St. John Community Center. Tiny Tot Basketball: For youngsters K–second grade. The little ones learn the basics of basketball. Practices are held two times per week, from 5-6 p.m. at Bea Underwood Elementary on Wednesdays and Thursdays. Thirtieth Annual Craft Fair: The 30th Annual Craft Fair is on Nov. 17 at Grand Valley High School. The doors open at 9 a.m. We appreciate the high school allowing us to transform the school into a one-day shopping extravaganza. Kitchen towels, quilts, wood items, metal art, photography, jewelry, paintings, Christmas wood items for the entryway to your home, puzzles, pottery, ceramics, handmade soaps and both products, knit hats, fleece vests and throws, dried packaged dips and salsas, fresh peach salsa, fused glass products, intarsia wood items, candles, fabric and tapestry bags, stocking stuffers, dog collars and liver treats for pets,, antique bird houses, one of a kind decorated old windows, fudge, cream caramels, jackets, scarves, purses, wild horse calendars, jams, jellies, floral bouquets, wreaths, baby blankets, decorative metal art, elk antler and rifle cartridge writing pens and home baked goods plus there will be a concession stand with proceeds benefiting the school’s junior class. Poinsettias will also be for sale in the lobby. The recreation district’s five-member board of directors holds meetings on the second Tuesday or Wednesday of each month at 7 p.m. at the district office, 259 Cardinal Way. The board members are elected biannually by the members of the community. Current board members are Jason Fletcher, Denise Gallegos, Ron Palmer, Michael Richards and Marilyn Bulger. Check out the website for more information at parachutebattlementparkandrecreation.org.
Sponsored by
Parachute/Battlement Mesa Park & Recreation District 285-0388 • Where the Fun Begins"
Page 8, GRAND VALLEY ECHO • Mid-November/Mid-December 2012
Chamber News Featured Parachute/Battlement Mesa Chamber of Commerce member: Nancy Jay By Anne Huber, Parachute/Battlement Mesa Chamber of Commerce Nancy Jay and her husband Craig have lived in Battlement Mesa for 18 years. They moved from Colorado Springs to be closer to family. Nancy and Craig have been married for almost 28 years, and she and Craig had a beautiful daughter, Heather. Nancy recently had a change of careers
and now works as the financial assistant in the Battlement Mesa Company accounting offices. Nancy really likes using her education in accounting. It was a big change from the 17 years she spent at Wells Fargo Bank. Nancy is a firm believer that change is a good thing. “I was asked to fill a vacant position back in the mid ‘90s and have been an active member and board member ever since,” said Nancy about her When asked her involvement in the chamber. “My most current term is once again a fill-in position for a resigning board member.” Nancy said she tries to get the best return on all of the chamber’s investments.
I really enjoy being treasurer,” she said. “My accounting background has been a great help in understanding the different types of accounts and products that are available.” Nancy’s personal goal is to see an increase in participation of members and businesses that want to see this community grow. She feels that the chamber should be the center the Parachute and of Battlement Mesa business communities. “If we don’t have excited and energetic volunteers that won’t happen,” she said. Nancy serves on several nonprofit boards in the community and believes that volunteers make a difference and keep our community thriving when times are hard.
Shop locally and support your local chamber businesses! parachutecolorado.com The next general membership meeting is Sept. 13 at 12 p.m. at the Battlement Mesa Firehouse.
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
WHY SHOP AT HOME? Reason #3
For every $100 spent in independently owned stores, $68 returns to the community through taxes, payroll and other expenditures. If you spend that in a national chain, only $43 stays here. Spend it online and nothing comes home.
GRAND VALLEY ECHO • Mid-November/Mid-December 2012, Page 9
Grand Valley Fire Protection District Be fire savvy for the holidays By Deputy Fire Chief Rob Ferguson
Treating Adults & Children Specialist in orthodontics and dentofacial orthopedics
NOW SERVING PARACHUTE & BATTLEMENT MESA Brian J. Burton DMD,MS Affordable monthly plans available Most Insurance and credit cards accepted
• Complimentary initial exam • Clear or metal traditional braces • Surgical cases • Invisalign • Temporary Orthodontic Implants • Damon Orthodontist system 970-243-6455 225 Callahan Avenue • Parachute, Colorado
For the month of October 2012 the fire district responded to 41 calls for service. The same period in 2011 resulted in 51 calls. In October, there were: 13 Fire incidents 0 Structure fire 1 Fire alarm 9 Brush fires/fire outside/trash/rubbish 1 Smoke or odor scares/removal 1 Electrical wiring/equipment problem 20 Emergency medical calls 3 Vehicle crashes 4 Public assists 1 Dispatched and cancelled enroute Between Jan. 1 to Oct. 31, 2011, call volume was at 485 calls for service. From Jan. 1 to Oct. 31, 2012 call volume has increased to 534 calls for service. This is approximately a 10.1 percent increase in calls for the fire district from last year.
If you should have an emergency, please call 911 as soon as possible!
Training hours per crew 67 hours - Green Crew 47 hours - Black crew 51 hours - Red Crew The fire district would like give a huge thanks to the Battlement Mesa Service Association (BMSA) for the use of the building located at the intersection of North Battlement Parkway and County Rd 300A. The firefighters are practicing search techniques, vertical roof ventilation, breaching walls for emergency egress of a building, hose evolutions, forcible entry and many more valuable firefighting skills. Thank you very much BMSA. The holidays are coming. Remember, cooking is the leading cause of home fires and fire-related injuries on Thanksgiving. The occurrence of cooking fires is nearly double on Thanksgiving than on any other day of the year. Be careful preparing those awesome holiday meals. Have a safe and wonderful holiday season.
www.bmac-co.org • 970-285-9480 Home for the Holidays Shopping [FREE Event] Saturday, November 17; 11 AM – 4 PM Contact Tracy Miller 285-6671 for info. Thanksgiving hours: Wednesday Nov. 21; 8:00 AM – 3 PM Thursday Nov. 22; CLOSED Black Friday Zumba Party November 23; 10 AM – 12 PM $10 AARP Safe Driving Class Thursday, Nov. 29; 8:30 AM – 12:30 PM Veterans and their family free this month AARP members $12 and non-members $14 KSUN Christmas GALA Saturday, December 1; 7:00 – 10:00 PM Tickets available $30 each
Women’s Self-Defense Class Sat., Dec.r 8; 1 – 3 PM $55/person Santa Claus and Kids’ Christmas • FREE Saturday December 8; 1:00 – 3 PM BMSA Annual Meeting Wednesday, December 12; 7:00 PM Call BMAC for information on fitness and martial arts classes & water aerobics Monthly newsletter available online at www.bmac-co.org
NEW NAME JANUARY 2013: GRAND VALLEY RECREATION CENTER
Battlement Mesa Metropolitan District oversees the operations of the water and wastewater plants and also owns Battlement Mesa Activity Center. The BMMD website has valuable information about all district operations, district management, documents and employment. The BMMD Board of Directors meetings are held at the district office; 401 Arroyo Drive (across from the Activity Center) on the 4th Thursday of each month at 9 AM. November and December meetings are the 3rd Thursday. Meetings are open to the public.
www.bmmetrodistrict.com 970-285-9050 Office Hours: Monday - Friday 8 am - 5 pm
Willow Ridge apartments in Battlement Mesa involved in structure fire By Rob Ferguson, Grand Valley Fire Protection District
On Nov. 4, at 12:14 pm Grand Valley Fire Protection District (GVFPD) was called out for a structure fire located at 854 West Battlement Parkway Building D. Upon arrival, fire crews found unit 204 fully evolved with fire with the fire quickly spreading through the common attic space into the next apartment. The fire was controlled by two engines, one ladder and 15 firefighters.The fire was under control in approximately 35 minutes. The fire was contained to the two fire units and roof. Two apartments were a total loss with heavy water damage in four other units.The 16-unit building was evacuated without any injuries to any occupants or fire personnel. Battlement Mesa Company was able to house all evacuees from the building while the fire is being investigated.The four units involved are under police control until Colorado Bureau of Investigations (CBI) is finished with the investigation. Garfield County Sheriff’s Investigators, along with CBI fire investigations completed the investigation. The cause of the fire was determined to be arson and a 13-year-old Battlement Mesa male resident was issued a summons for fourth degree arson. The Ninth Judicial District Attorney’s Office and Garfield County Youthzone contributed in the charging determination. Both the mother and the juvenile were cooperative during the investigation. To maintain the integrity in the prosecution of this case, no further information will be released. GVFPD personnel and Garfield County Sheriff’s Officers will remain on scene overnight. GVFPD would like to thank Colorado River Fire Rescue, Garfield County Sheriff’s Office and Battlement Mesa Company for their help with the incident.
Page 10, GRAND VALLEY ECHO • Mid-November/Mid-December 2012
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Terrific Kids for October 2012 The Parachute/Battlement Mesa Kiwanis Club sponsors Bea Underwood Elementary’s Terrific Kids. The program promotes character development and self-esteem. “TERRIFIC” is an acronym meaning Thoughtful, Enthusiastic, Respectful, Inclusive, Friendly, Inquisitive and Capable.
Striver of the Month: Austin Martinez By Ashlynn Speakman, GVHS
Basketball player, track participant and a Fellowship Christian Athlete Club member, all describe Grand Valley High School Striver of the Month Austin Martinez. When asked how he earned the award, he replied “I think I got this award because I work hard at everything I do, and also I am very responsible when it comes to school work.” Strivers of the Month are academically focused with responsibility and content grades and have personal goals. “One goal I have for the year is to get better,” said Austin, “whether it’s academically or through sports. Also, I want to do well on tests like TCAP and further my knowledge.” Striving for greatness, Austin Martinez is a well deserved student for this reward.
Bea Underwood Elementary School October’s Terrific Kids from Bea Underwood are, from left, first row, Cali Jackson, Kylee Walker, Mickie Davis, Justin Miller; second row, Kathy Keeling, principal, Bailey Hoyt, Hayden Grice, McKatie Hemmert, Colby Scott; third row, Dylan Mueller, Canyon Shope, Leslie Monterosso, and fourth row, Joel Montoya, Hope Bruhn, and Opal Morganthaler, Kiwanis representative. Not pictured: Dylan Sprague, Jordyn Pittman. Photo courtesy of Jeanne Miles
Congratulations to all of October’s Terrific Kids!
Striver of the Month Austin Martinez
THIS PAGE SPONSORED BY:
GARFIELD COUNTY SCHOOL DISTRICT NO. 16 www.garcoschools.org
•• TOO MUCH NEWS TOO FEW ADS •• The amount of advertising and sponsorships sold determines the size of the paper. We’ve had to cut many valuable, informative stories because the page count of the Echo is so small. Advertise your business or consider sponsoring the Echo if you find value in receiving this newspaper every month. • ADVERTISING SALES • BARBARA PAVLIN, 285-7634
GRAND VALLEY ECHO • Mid-November/Mid-December 2012, Page 11
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Grand Valley High School News she got to park out in the front of the school in the visitors and staff section because of winning Student of the Month. “It was great!,” she said. “Everyday, I would drive to the front of the school and have a huge grin on my face!” Lauren is a great student and is destined to go far with the rest of her high school career and life. She is an inspiration to us all.
good grades. That would be good for me.” Grand Valley High School is very proud of Loy. He should feel honored to be recognized for his positive efforts.
Attention student drivers! By Collin Weeks, GVHS
Student of the Month Lauren Paskett
No Time to Quit Now By Sierra Berger, GVHS Lauren Paskett was named the October Student of the Month at Grand Valley High School. Lauren is an inspiring student who never stops pushing herself to achieve great things. When asked who inspires her the most, Lauren replied, “Thor! I hope one day I can achieve his magic perfection.” Lauren’s goals keep her moving forward and remind her that every little thing counts. Lauren is involved in basketball, soccer, National Honor Society, Fellow Christian Athletes, and Key Club. She loves helping the community and showing a little bit of her competitive side. “They help me push myself to keep doing my best and reach new goals,” she said. “I love being active and it brings joy to my life.” She is a great athlete that many students look up to and is a great team leader. Lauren sees what is in front of her and knows what steps she needs to take to get there. “I want to focus on my education beyond high school,” she said. “I want to work on getting scholarships and planning my college career.” Lauren was also excited when she found out that
The Most Improved Student for October is sophomore Loy Vandiver.
Most Improved Student: Loy Vandiver By Shannia Burns, GVHS When asked how he earned this award, Loy replied, “I stepped it up to get good grades and to be on top of my school work because if you’re behind it is harder for you to have good grades.” Loy was very excited to earn this honor because “I really don’t win awards so this award means a lot to me.” When asked what some of his goals are for high school, Loy answered “To graduate high school with
Driving has always been a form of freedom, and for most of us, the main way we get around. One of the highlights of a teenager’s life is getting a driver’s license. For most, it’s a sign of growing up and even a rite of passage. From running errands, picking up siblings to being able to drive to the movies with friends, driving around like an “adult” is a great feeling. “Graduated Drivers Licensing or GDL, affects the steps required to get your license and also the specific restrictions you’ll need to obey until you turn 18” states the Colorado Department of Transportation. GDL laws set certain restrictions on teen drivers. These laws include passenger restrictions, cell phone bans and curfews. The passenger restrictions allow teens to only drive with passengers who are 21 and older for the first six months after obtaining their license. During the second six months, a teen may only drive with one passenger under 21. There are some exceptions, including siblings and passengers with medical emergencies. Using a cell phone while driving is illegal in Colorado for drivers 18 and younger. There is an enforced curfew for teen drivers. Teens are not allowed to drive between midnight and 5 a.m. These laws may aggravate many teenagers, but they are enforced to help ensure the safety of teen drivers and those driving around them, For more information on teen driving laws, visit coloradodot.info. For more on student driving, see Parachute Police Chief Cary Parmenter’s article on page 12.
THIS PAGE SPONSORED BY:
GARFIELD COUNTY SCHOOL DISTRICT NO. 16 www.garcoschools.org Have a Blessed Thanksgiving! Plan your Holiday Party now at VJ's Enjoy the GOODMAN Band November 17 We will be CLOSED Thanksgiving Day
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
Page 12, GRAND VALLEY ECHO • Mid-November/Mid-December 2012
Nature at Home and Afield By Betsy Leonard
Water quality – a local perspective
Located behind the grey apartments in Battlement Mesa and visible from the walking path is a small body of water about 300 feet below the path. Most of this water comes from a natural runoff. However, there seems to be a constant source of water coming into this body of water and the amount of algae on the surface varies as conditions change. We can study this small water patch as a microcosm of the larger issue of the quality of water bodies. First, what is meant by “water quality”? This is the chemical, physical and biological characteristics of water. It is also a measure of the condition of water relative to the requirements of one or more biotic species and or to any human need or purpose according to the Journal of Environmental Quality. There are several measurements of a water body’s health, including temperature, pH, turbidity, dissolved oxygen, hardness and suspended sediment. Water temperature is important to swimmers and fishermen, but also to industries and algae. Temperature can affect the ability of water to hold oxygen and it hinders the ability of organisms to resist certain pollutants. For example, trout require colder water with higher dissolved oxygen levels to survive. Temperatures in our little pond are probably elevated because there is not much depth to the water, there is no circulation, and algae is thriving on the surface. PH is a measurement of the acidic or basic status of the water; it ranges from 0-14, with seven being neutral. When the pH is less than seven, this indicates acidity, whereas a pH greater than seven indicates a base. Water that has more free hydrogen ions is acidic and when water has more free hydroxyl ions, it is basic. So, what does this mean? Well, for instance, water coming out of an abandoned coal mine can have a pH of two, which is very acidic and would kill any fish trying to live in it. In thinking about pH, each number represents a 10-fold change in the acidity/basicness of the water. Water with a pH of four is 10 times more acidic than water with a pH of five. We would have to measure the pH of our pond; you cannot tell by looking. Turbidity is the amount of particulate matter that is suspended in the water, making the water cloudy or opaque. Materials that contribute to turbidity include clay, silt, finely divided organic and inorganic matter, plankton, soluble colored compounds, and microscopic organisms. Our pond is very dark, so the turbidity is high. During a rainstorm, particles from the surrounding land are washed into the Colorado River making the water a muddy brown color, indicating water with higher turbidity levels. You cannot tell by looking at a body of water how much oxygen is in it. Rapidly moving water, such as mountain streams, tends to contain a lot of dissolved oxygen, while stagnant water contains little. Bacteria in water can consume oxygen as organic matter decays. Nutrients can contribute to algae growth. Our pond does not have a complete algae bloom (eutrophication), but it no doubt has decreased levels of oxygen. The amount of dissolved calcium and magnesium in the water determines its “hardness.” Where water is hard, such as here, you may notice that it is difficult to lather up when washing your hands or clothes. Hard water can damage equipment. That is why we must spend money to soften our water. As runoff, our pond probably has hard water too. Finally, suspended sediment is the amount of soil moving along in a stream. It is highly dependent on the speed at which the water is flowing; fast-flowing water can pick up and carry more soil than calm water. If land is disturbed along a stream and protection measures are not taken, then excess sediment can harm the water quality of a stream. It is unclear about the amount of suspended sediment in our pond. Learning about water quality is important because it can be impacted by many different things, including industrial processes. We must all learn to be vigilant to protect our water sources. Betsy Leonard is an environmental education specialist who lives in Parachute.
Rules of the road for teen drivers By Cary Parmenter, Chief of Police, Parachute Police Department The rules of the road apply to drivers of all ages, but there are certain additional restrictions that all teen drivers need to know. Passenger restrictions Teens with a permit: - No passengers other than a driving instructor, parent, legal guardian or a licensed adult 21 years of age or older (authorized by parent/guardian). Teens with a license: - For the first six months, no passengers under 21, unless a parent or other licensed adult driver is in the vehicle. - For the next six months, one passenger under age 21 (unsupervised). - Siblings and passengers with medical emergencies are exceptions. - At any time, no more than one passenger is allowed in the front seat. Mandatory seat belts: By law, all teen drivers and passengers must wear individual seat belts, no sharing. This is a primary violation and you can get stopped for only this reason. Cell phones and texting banned: -Teens under age 18 are prohibited from using a cell phone, for either talking or texting, while driving. Teens can be fined and may risk losing their license. Exceptions include emergency calls to the police or
fire department. This is a primary violation and you can get stopped for only this reason. Curfew: -For the first year as a licensed driver, teens must abide by a curfew. There is no driving between midnight and 5 a.m. unless accompanied by an instructor, parent or legal guardian. Exceptions include driving to/from school/work (a signed statement from school/work required), medical emergencies and emancipated minors. Curfew laws may vary by city or county. The curfew laws in the town limits of Parachute are from 11 p.m. to 5:00 a.m. To properly follow the curfew in your area, please confirm restrictions with your local government. Zero tolerance for drunk driving: Eight young people die every day in the US in alcohol-related crashes. Talk with your teen about the dangers of driving drunk or riding with someone who has used alcohol or drugs. Driving under the influence of alcohol, even a trace of alcohol on minor drivers, is punishable by law. For a refresher on all traffic laws, review the Colorado Department of Revenue's Drivers’ Handbook. For more information on teen driving and the Graduated Driver Licensing (GDL) visit coteendriver.com. For information on approved courses and driving schools, go to colorado.gov/revenue/dmv
Low-income energy assistance available By Renelle Lott, Garfield County The Low-income Energy Assistance Program (LEAP) is now available to eligible households through the end of next April. Qualifying limitedincome households may receive assistance to pay for a portion of their home energy bills. For the 2012-13 heating season, Garfield, Eagle and Pitkin counties have contracted with Discover Goodwill of Southern and Western Colorado to administer the program. Discover Goodwill has administered the LEAP program for El Paso County for more than 15 years. “By contracting with Goodwill, households seeking assistance will receive their benefits more quickly and at a lower cost to the county,” stated Tricia Murray, economic security division manager for Garfield County Department of Human Services. Households may qualify for LEAP assistance if anyone within the home is a US citizen or legal permanent resident. Heating costs are paid directly to an energy provider or are included in the rent as long as gross monthly household income is within income guidelines. The maximum gross monthly household income limit of 150 percent of the Federal Poverty Guidelines, based on the number of eligible household members, is as follows:
1 - $1,397 2 - $1,892 3 - $2,387 4 - $2,882 5 - $3,377 6 - $3,872 7 - $4,367 8 - $4,862 Each qualified household may receive only one LEAP benefit for the winter season. Factors such as income, type of heat being used, type of dwelling and number of people in the household are considered before an amount is awarded to an applicant. Funds for home heating system repairs may also be available. Additional resources for those struggling with high heat bills are available through the Governor’s Energy Office Energy Management Program, also known as the Weatherization Program. Those who qualify for LEAP, Temporary Aid to Needy Families (TANF), Old Age Pension (OAP) or Supplemental Security Income (SSI) automatically qualify for these weatherization services. Request an application by mail or for more information on LEAP and other available resources, call Discover Goodwill at 888-775-5327 or Heat Help at 866-432-8435. For more information on the weatherization program, call 800-332-3669 or visit nwccog.org .
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
BOOK YOUR HOLIDAY PARTY NOW!
For more information contact: Judith at 285-9696 or Michelle at 285-7828
GRAND VALLEY ECHO • Mid-November/Mid-December 2012, Page 13
Mesa Vista News Thanksgiving Day and beyond at Mesa Vista By Kathy Germano, Mesa Vista Assisted Living Residence activity director
Everyone at Mesa Vista wishes you a happy Thanksgiving. From left, Georgianna Hathaway, Ruth The residents had a grand Halloween party with Graves and Virginia Holub. food, beverages, costumes and karaoke galore. All have been working hard on the crafts to be sold at the 30th annual Craft Fair in Parachute on Nov. 17 from 8 a.m. to 4 p.m. Mesa Vista will be in space number 87 in Santa’s Workshop, so be sure to stop by. Mesa Vista will also be hosting a scrumptious bake sale at the residence on that same day. Many of the recipes used for the bake sale come from our residents’ old recipe favorites. Come by for a tour, free hot chocolate, popcorn and meet our community. The residents will enjoy a traditional dinner on Thanksgiving Day. Pepper Bowden, the residence’s wonderful and talented dietary manager/cook, has a busy schedule coming up. The residents will be celebrating the holiday season with their families on Dec. 14 with the annual Holiday Gala, complete with dinner and entertainment. Celebrating birthdays in November are Marge Koteskey celebrating 99 years on Nov. 10 and CC Cervantes on Nov. 17. Happy Birthday ladies! Hope to see you soon at the Craft Fair and our bake sale. Until then, many happy days.
Valley Senior Center holds Pamper Yourself Day on Nov. 20
Nov. 20 is Pamper Yourself Day during this special Tips and Talks on Tuesday at Parachute's Valley Senior Center. A day of relaxation awaits, beginning at 10 a.m. Treat yourself to hand dips and chair massages given by Claudia Santa Cruz and Carla Delgado. Put your creativity to use in making holiday gift bags and doing word search puzzles while listening to variety of holiday music. Refreshments including cider, donuts, and cheese and crackers to top off this festive Tips and Talks on Tuesday event. There will not be a Tips and Talks on Tuesday program in December. – Mitzi Burkhart, Valley Senior Center
FUEL Up Your FLEET! AUTOMATED PROPRIETARY CHARGE CARD SYSTEM Available 24 hours daily Car Wash Fleet Card Program Available at the following Phillips 66 Stations
PARACHUTE GRUB N SCRUB 28 Cardinal Way • Parachute
Car Wash / Dominos / Shommy’s Restaurant Shommy’s Restaurant Now Open – Asian/American Cuisine
RED RIVER QUICK MART 1-70 at South Rifle • 702 Taghenbaugh Blvd.
Dominos Pizza - 625-0505
THE CORNER STORE & LASER CAR WASH 9th & Railroad • Rifle
Touch Free Carwash / Convenience Store
BOOKCLIFF CAR WASH 1st & West Ave • Rifle
Touch Free Carwash / Convenience Store
SWALLOW OIL COMPANY • 945-8823 WHOLESALE GAS & OIL
Rifle - 970-625-1467 • Eagle - 970-328-7788
Page 14, GRAND VALLEY ECHO • Mid-November/Mid-December 2012
N O N P R O F I T S Mt. Callahan Community Fund
Mt. Callahan Community Fund: 10 years of serving the community
The Colorado Heritage Group A NEW HOME BY CHRISTMAS Ready to move in and in great condition. Split bedroom plan, MF home, new carpet and paint. Battlement Mesa - $99,900
By Mt. Callahan Community Steering Committee
In this column, the Mt. Callahan Community Fund (MCCF) invites representatives of local nonprofits that MCCF has funded to write about their organizations. In this way, you can get to know these remarkable groups and how they benefit Parachute and Battlement Mesa. This year marks the 10th anniversary of Mt. Callahan Community Fund (MTCCF), an endowed charitable fund managed by the Western Colorado Community Foundation which serves the Battlement Mesa and Parachute communities. Ten years ago, a group of civic-minded individuals realized that thriving communities are where neighbors take care of neighbors. With the goal of creating a continuing source of revenue to assist the many needs of a healthy community, several enthusiastic leaders in Battlement Mesa and Parachute took action. Under the guidance and energy of Maryann McKinley and an initial $25,000 donation from Unocal, a matching grant from the Boettcher Foundation was obtained and the Endowment Fund was established. Since then, the fund has grown to more than $100,000. MTCCF has granted $75,350 to worthy causes and organizations in our community with funds from donations from local businesses and individuals and earnings from the Endowment Fund. In 2008 the "100 for 100" campaign was initiated to celebrate the 100th Anniversary of the Town of Parachute's founding and to build the MTCCF Endowment Fund in order to support the funding of yearly grants to the communities of Parachute and Battlement Mesa. The Friends of the Campaign each donated $5,000 and the Town of Parachute pledged $25,000 over a period five years. Plaques at the Town of Parachute and the Battlement Mesa Activity Center display these generous donors: Alpine Bank of Battlement Mesa, Judith Hayward, Betty and George Letson, Ivo and Betty Lindauer, Tom and Lou Roess, Lynn and Lynn Shore, and the Town of Parachute. It's important to note that all the funds that MTCCF grants are used locally. You can see the benefits all around you. When you visit the Battlement Schoolhouse, notice the lovely landscaping. And if you attend one of their dinner parties, notice the beautiful new china, silverware and tablecloths. MTCCF helped with the historic restoration also. Children enjoy the new modular skate park, soccer goals and nets, picnic tables at Callahan Ballpark, new playground equipment, and be sure to check out the new dog agility equipment at the dog park at the Saddleback Recreation Center. MTCCF has contributed funds for each of these projects through the Park and Recreation District. MTCCF also supports the Early Learning Center in 10 classrooms in Parachute and Battlement Mesa. KSUN has benefited from grants for new programming and computer software. LIFT-UP continuously receives funds for the food pantry and general operating support in Parachute. MTCCF has granted funds to Meals on Wheels, the Senior Center, various local schools for musical instruments, English/Spanish dictionaries and student scholarships. These are just some of the ways the MTCCF has had a positive impact in making our community a better place to live, work and play. The Mt. Callahan Community Fund is administered by a volunteer steering committee composed of local citizens. If you are interested in supporting community organizations through MTCCF, please contact Barbara Pavlin at 285-7634 or Sara McCurdy at 285-9182 or send your donation directly to the Mt. Callahan Community Fund, P.O. Box 104, Parachute 81635.
Sponsored by: Mac & Sara McCurdy
Sponsored by: Barbara Pavlin
Sponsored by: Mary Lee Mohrlang
Sponsored by: Sherry Johnson
FLEXIBLE FAMILY FLOORPLAN Very large kitchen with center island, built in hutch. Laminate flooring in living, family, kitchen and dining. Battlement Mesa - $189,900
SEASONED WITH LOVE AND CARE Open vistas from secluded patio, pristine condition in and out, living room with corner fireplace. Battlement Mesa - $162,000 UPGRADES GALORE MF home with 1500 plus sq. ft. All new appliances and flooring. Fenced yard, garage and storage building. Battlement Mesa - $117,000 ELEGANT STYLE AND SETTING Unique custom home, river rock fireplace, master on main, loft, library, gourmet kitchen. Battlement Mesa - $390,000
GOOD LIFE WISE INVESTMENT Premier building site, upscale golf course subdivision with enormous views for your new home. Battlement Mesa - $75,000
THE PERFECT PLACE... for your perfect home. Buildable lot with stunning views in every direction. Tap fees paid. Battlement Mesa - $65,000 VIEWS IN ALL DIRECTIONS Great landscaping and outside space in this well kept MF home. Eat-in kitchen, covered patio. Battlement Mesa - $115,000 FLEXIBLE TOWNHOME PLAN Bright and airy breakfast nook, formal dining room, two living areas, quality upgrades throughout. Battlement Mesa - $199,000 EFFICIENT TOWNHOME PLAN Walk to Battlement Activity Center and shopping, perfect 2nd home, weekend or vacation retreat. Battlement Mesa - $110,000 TIMELESS DESIGN AND QUALITY Master suite with walk-in closet and huge shower, hardwood interior doors, full wall fireplace. Battlement Mesa - $229,000 PATIO WITH CUSTOM SEATING Window filled townhome, large master suite, workshop/craft room, open living dining and study. Battlement Mesa - $124,500
LAND: WHERE YOUR DREAM BEGINS! Corner lot in Eagles Point Sbdv. surrounded by views. Impact and tap fees paid, walking trails. Battlement Mesa - $45,000 BE READY TO BUILD THIS SPRING This lot has several building sites and a great location. Walk to shopping and activity center. Battlement Mesa - $39,900 OUTRAGEOUS VIEWS Various size building lots, walking trails, entry fencing and landscaped common areas. Battlement Mesa starting at $71,000 INVEST IN YOUR FUTURE Upscale subdivision, covenant protected, 2200 sq. ft. minimum. Level lot site with super scenery. Battlement Mesa - $68,000 USE YOUR IMAGINATION The house and site plan for this building site is available. Begin your life's dream here. Battlement Mesa - $42,900 WIDE OPEN VIEWS AND SPACES Unimproved 160 acres zoned for agricultural-single family, varied topography, partial fencing. DeBeque - $215,000 START WITH THE WORKSHOP... Finished shop on 8.38 acres in a covenant protected rural sbdv. Fantastic scenery, borders BLM . DeBeque - $215,000
SO NICE TO COME HOME TO Master suite has soaker tub and tiled shower, oak kitchen cabinetry, study with window seat. Battlement Mesa - $174,500
mohrlang • swanson The NAMES that mean EXCELLENCE in Real Estate…
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.MohrlangSwanson.com
GRAND VALLEY ECHO • Mid-November/Mid-December 2012, Page 15
Local program receives Meals on Wheels Association of America grant By Annick Pruett, Grand River Hospital District Delivering more than just a meal became a whole lot easier this winter with a grant from the Meal on Wheels Association of America. The grant money will be used to purchase a new fourwheel-drive Ford Escape. Grand River Hospital District has run the Grand River Meals On Wheels program for more than 35 years out of the hospital’s kitchen. The program has grown to delivering more than 10,000 meals for the last three out of four years. Volunteers deliver up to 90 meals a day, five days a week, to Parachute, Rifle, Silt and New Castle, ensuring that the area’s homebound seniors, disabled and recovering get the nutrition and daily contact they need. Grand River has received smaller grants from the national Meals on Wheels program ranging from $100 to $1,500. This year, Grand River was awarded the Small Program, Large Impact Grant for $20,000, designed specifically for small and rural Meals on Wheels programs. The grant is sponsored nationally by Walmart. The need identified for the Grand River Meals on Wheels program was an emergency delivery, all-weather vehicle that can deliver in the worst of weather conditions. Safe delivery of meals can be very difficult during inclement weather and often impossible without a 4WD vehicle. Through rain, sleet and snow, the new 2013 Ford Escape 4WD vehicle from Columbine Ford will help Grand River Meals on Wheels deliver meals safely, no matter what the weather conditions bring. Thank you Walmart, Meals on Wheels Association of America and Columbine Ford for the care you give to the seniors in our community. Interested in volunteering to become a Meals on Wheels driver in Western Garfield County? Call Kaaren Peck at 625-6423. For more information, go to grhd.org.
103.9 FM
TUNE IN! BROADCASTING 24/7! Syndicated Radio Programs • Local Programming YOUR SOURCE FOR EMERGENCY WEATHER AND AMBER ALERTS 2012 KSUN christmas GALA KSUN will hold it's 2012 Christmas Gala on Saturday, December 1st at the Activity Center. Our dinner/dance from 7 to 10 pm promises to be a great night of entertainment and outstanding food! Tickets are $30 in advance and are available at the Activity Center, Alpine Bank and Old Mountain Jewelry. KSUN MEMBERSHIP DRIVE STILL GOING STRONG Many thanks to those that have supported our recent KSUN membership drive. Your funds are definitely appreciated and needed to keep KSUN on the air. But it is certainly not too late to join. Membership is only $25. Please call Floyd, our station manager, at 285-2246. You can help us reach our goal of $2,500.
KSUn radio - THE VOICE OF THE GRAND VALLEY HIGH SCHOOL CARDINALS. BROADCASTING GAMES LIVE!
KSUN COMMUNITY RADIO 398 Arroyo Drive, Battlement Mesa • 285-2246
www.ksunradio.org
What you need to know about pertussis By Ann Galloway, NP-C, Grand River Student Health Center
Pertussis, also known as whooping cough, is a serious and highly contagious respiratory infection caused by the bacteria Bordetella pertussis. Whooping cough is common in the United States and the incidence is rising. In 2000, there were 7,867 cases of whooping cough reported in the US and in 2011, there were 18,719. The year 2010 had the highest incidence rate since 2000 with 27,550 reported cases. In Colorado this year alone, there have been 1,026 cases reported from January through October. These numbers may be low since many pertussis cases are not diagnosed and not reported. Whooping cough is spread when an infected person coughs or sneezes and another person breathes in the bacteria. Anyone can get whooping cough but it is often a more severe disease in infants and young children who have not had the pertussis vaccine. Even those who have had the recommended doses of the vaccine can get whooping cough because immunity gained from the vaccination typically wanes over time. Symptoms of whooping cough usually appear seven to 10 days after exposure to the bacteria but can develop four to 21 days after exposure. Cold-like symptoms such as low fever, runny nose and mild cough are the first symptoms noted.The disease is most contagious during this early stage. The cough becomes more severe within two weeks and the infected person may develop fits of coughing episodes that can include vomiting, breathlessness, a change in facial color, and/or a whooping sound upon inspiration after the coughing episode. Coughing may last up to two months and coughing fits are more frequent at night. Whooping cough is treated with antibiotics and an infected person is considered contagious until they have completed five days of an appropriate antibiotic. Even though the antibiotics will reduce the contagious period, cough symptoms are not reduced unless the antibiotics are taken in the very early stages of the illness. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, an effective vaccine is available for whooping cough. The vaccine is given in combination with the diphtheria and tetanus vaccine. For infants and children, the vaccine is called DTaP for diphtheria, tetanus and pertussis. The recommended schedule for vaccination is five doses of DTaP vaccine given at ages 2, 4, 6, and 15 to 18 months and between 4 to 6 years old. Tdap is the name of the diphtheria, tetanus and pertussis vaccine that is given to adolescents and adults. A single dose of Tdap is recommended at 11 to 12 years of age. The Colorado Department of Public Health and Environment expanded its recommendations in 2010 due to the increased number of reported pertussis cases in Colorado. The expanded guidelines recommend a one-time Tdap vaccination for the following two groups if they live in a household with an infant or if anyone is a care provider for an infant. Adults 65 years of age and older and children 7 to 10 years of age should receive the vaccine if they are not up-to-date on their pertussis vaccinations. Ann Galloway is a certified nurse practitioner who works at the Grand River Student Health Center in Parachute.
Page 16, GRAND VALLEY ECHO • Mid-November/Mid-December 2012
H E A LT H
Battlement Mesa clinic welcomes Tami Griffith, CRNP By Annick Pruett, Grand River Hospital District Tami Griffith, CRNP has recently joined the staff at the Grand River Medical Clinic in Battlement Mesa. Griffith, a family nurse practitioner, comes to Grand River from St. Mary’s Family Residency Clinic in Grand Junction where she spent the last two years. Prior to that, she practiced in Grand County at the Granby Medical Center. Tami received her BSN from McNeese State University in Louisiana, and her master’s in family nurse practitioner from the University of South
Alabama in 2002. Tami is originally from Fairhope, Ala., a town of about 8,000 people. “Rural health is what I love,” she said, explaining why Grand River is such a good fit for her. “Working in smaller communities, you have the opportunity to build strong connections with your patients and their families. That’s so much more difficult to do in larger areas and cities.” Tami and her husband Jeff currently live in Grand Junction. They plan to relocate to Battlement Mesa this coming summer.
Diabetes: It is time to take action against this deadly disease By Dr. Laurie Marbas
Diabetes is a growing trend in America and many of us have family members or friends with this potentially debilitating and deadly disease. According to the Centers for Disease Control, more than 25 million American adults have diabetes and 79 million have prediabetes. Diabetes is the seventh leading cause of death in America and costs us over $174 billion annually. The personal and financial burden of diabetes is not going to improve until Americans take responsibility for our own health starting with education. There are three types of diabetes including type one, which occurs after there is damage to the pancreatic beta-islet cells that produce insulin. Type one diabetes accounts for up to 10 percent of all diabetics and usually occurs through an autoimmune process in childhood although some adults can present with type one as well. Symptoms include increased thirst and urination, rapid weight loss, blurry vision and fatigue. Type one diabetes requires insulin treatment immediately. Type two diabetes is the most common; more than 80 percent of cases, and will manifest when the pancreas cannot produce enough insulin to keep pace with increasing glucose (blood sugar) in the blood. The majority of patients are obese adults and the their cells are also insulin resistant, meaning they do not respond to insulin as well as normal cells. Insulin is the key that brings glucose into a cell to be used for energy, but insulin resistant cells have been exposed to such high levels of insulin for years that they soon require more insulin than an individual’s body can produce.Type two diabetics usually also have hypertension and elevated cholesterol. More children are also being diagnosed with type two diabetes, because of obesity. Symptoms are similar to those in type one but are usually milder.Treatment often starts with oral medications but unless lifestyle modifications, including weight loss and healthy diet occur, many will require insulin. Serious complications such as blindness, amputation, heart disease and stroke are frequent when blood sugars remain uncontrolled. Gestational diabetes is the third type. It occurs during pregnancy and is the least common type. Treatment requires dietary modification and usually insulin because it is essential to control blood sugars to prevent fetal complications. Women who receive prenatal care are routinely tested for diabetes. Women who had gestational diabetes are 35 to 60 percent more likely to develop diabetes within 10 years. What can you do to prevent diabetes or find out if you are one of the seven million Americans un-diagnosed with diabetes? First, if you are overweight, have hypertension or elevated cholesterol, a family history of diabetes, or a previously abnormal blood sugar test you are at risk. Prevention and early detection is key to stopping the evolution of diabetes. See your primary care provider and ask to be tested, engage in daily exercise, and remove junk food and processed food from your diet, and eat more fresh fruits, vegetables, beans and nuts.
Tami Griffith, CRNP
Cayden Sproles advances to Life Scout By Charlie Hornick, Echo contributor Cayden Sproles has achieved the rank of Life Scout. Life Scout is the second highest rank in scouting next to the coveted Eagle Scout. Cayden is 11 years old and has advanced quickly through the scout ranks. He is presently the senior patrol leader of Troop 255. He was chosen for this leadership position by his fellow Scouts, some of whom are much older than Cayden. Cayden has a total of 53 nights of camping, 81 miles of cycling and 60 miles of hiking. He has been involved in 26 service projects and has racked up 114 hours of community service. Cayden was recently active in the Kiwanis Food Drive for LIFT UP and assisted in cleaning the pathway on the bridge across the Colorado River between Battlement Mesa and Parachute. Cayden, a sixth grader, is also a member of the Polar Bear Club and the Fourteeners’ Club, having hiked to the top of different mountains above 14,000 feet. This past year, Cayden became certified in cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR). Cayden has also excelled in areas outside of scouting. He is a Red Belt in Taekwondo and is in his fourth year of the Truth and Training Club of Awana at Grace Bible Church. Cayden is an animal lover and has a bearded dragon named Dexter. His hobbies include camping, shooting sports, crossbow, knife and tomahawk throwing, and building just about anything. Cayden’s Troop 255 is co-sponsored by the Grand Valley/Parachute Kiwanis and Grace Bible Church. The boys meet weekly at Grace Bible Church in Battlement Mesa. Boys ages 11 to 17 who are interested in learning more about being involved in scouting can contact Scoutmaster, Travis Sproles, at 250-2584. For questions about the Boy Scout Program can contact Executive Director Jim Graham at 625-9999.
GRAND VALLEY ECHO • Mid-November/Mid-December 2012, Page 17
FA I T H
As I See It
• The Echo Worship Directory •
Thanksgiving, after the election
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.
By Pastor Charlie Hornick, Grace Bible Church Giving thanks after an election is easy. We can find lots of reasons for gratitude. The political ads on TV have ceased. Our phones have finally stopped ringing with someone on the other end asking us to take a survey. The amount of daily mail is back to normal. But, our reasons for thanksgiving have to go deeper than a sigh of relief that the annoyances of an election are finally over. In the scriptures, the apostle Paul instructs us to give a priority to praying and giving thanks for all people, specifically mentioning that we do so regarding kings and for all who are in authority. The reason he gives is that we might lead peaceful and quiet lives that are godly and dignified. I suspect we all could use some more peace and quiet. I need to mention, before I go on, that I am writing this before the election. Therefore, I do not know who the winning candidates will be for the various offices. I am not sure who will be our president for the next four years. The admonition to give thanks for all in authority remains the same regardless of who is in office. If who I think is the best man wins or loses does not change the instruction to be thankful. So, I have to be. Wait, rather, I can be. Or should I say, I should be thankful. I used to gag at the thought of giving thanks for some people. Especially during campaigns, before an election, if we believed half of what we heard from the political ads, we are sure to believe that that the country is going down the tubes if the wrong candidate wins. However, I have discovered that giving thanks for people in public office has done something for me. It has changed my perspective in many ways. First, when I take the time to give thanks, it somehow opens my eyes to the fact that none, or at least almost none, of the political jobs is easy. Even getting elected involves a whole series of obstacles and, in a lot of cases, attacks. Then, there are the pressures of the office. Last time I checked, I know of no politician who pleases all of the people all of the time. Sometimes our leaders encounter people with harsh and unjust (as well as just plain stupid) criticisms. Adlai Stevenson quipped, “In America any boy can grow up to be president, but that is a risk he has to be willing to take.” He said that many years ago. Hopefully, now we can say that any boy or girl could grow up to be president. Anyone who does needs to be respected for what it takes to get there and what is involved after they arrive. My belief in God assures me that anyone who gets there does so because God has some special purpose for him or her and for us. Many of our elected officials work very hard, spending long hours in meetings, on the phone, public speaking and going over mountains of reading material. The higher the office, the more horrendous the decisions and the costlier the mistakes. I have focused on the president on the first part of this article, but I think that our giving thanks should be for all who are in public office. I am finding that there are numerous times giving thanks in our local area has come naturally. I attended the grand opening of the west Parachute interchange on Oct. 31. It is obvious that many worked hard to make this multi-million dollar project a reality. Literally decades of dreaming, planning, discussing, debating, calling, writing, working, etc. went into this project. We owe many a debt of gratitude. Recently, I was at the scene of a fire where I witnessed many of our public officials, fire department, police department, local businesses, local churches, charities and neighbors responding to assist families in a crisis. Living here is a blessing. By here I mean in America and in this community. We are truly blessed.
Grace Bible Church
Group twice a month at 7:00 p.m.
0755 Spencer Parkway P.O. Box 6248 Battlement Mesa, CO 81636 285-9862
Our church has been active in serving the area for 122 years! Come Join Us This Sunday!
Charlie Hornick, Pastor Jed Johnston, Family Life Pastor Chasity McGillivray, GBC Child Care Director Jonathan & Bethany Koehn, Ministry in Spanish Stephen & Amanda Chapman, Church Planting
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: 11:00 a.m. Choir: 9:30 a.m. Children's Sunday School: 11-11:30 WOW: Worship On Wednesday Eucharist: 6 p.m. Repast 6:30 p.m. Study: 7 p.m.
Sunday Blessing Up for Church Broadcast 8:00am 103.9 FM Sunday School: 9:30-10:15am Morning Worship: 10:30am Youth / Children’s Activities Grace Bible Church Child Care: Mon – Fri. Boy Scouts – Call for days/time Awana: Wednesdays 6:30pm (Sept. – April) Middle & High School Youth (Call for times) Boy Scout Troop # 255 – Mondays at 6:00pm *Bible Studies, Special Activities (Call for times and places) Email: pastorch@grace-bible-church.com Website: www.grace-bible-church.com 24-Hour Prayer Line: 256-4693 •••
•••
Grand Valley Christian Church
Crown Peak Baptist Church
Second Street & Parachute Avenue Parachute
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. 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.
Richard Counts, Pastor 285-7597, 260-1080 e-mail: office@mygvcc.info Church Office 285-7597 Sunday worship 10:00 a.m. •••
Grand Valley United Methodist Church 132 N. Parachute Ave. Parachute, Co. 81635 970-285-9892 grandvalleyumc.qwestnetoffice.com grandvalleyumc@qwestoffice.net We are a Christ-centered congregation committed to biblical and theological openness and inclusiveness. SUNDAY MORNING SCHEDULE Adult Sunday School: 8:30 a.m. Children’s Sunday School: 9:00 a.m. Worship Service at 10:00 a.m. Fellowship Time with refreshments at 11:00 a.m. We have a Communion Service on the First Sunday of every month Our “Awakening Chorus” Choir practices on Wednesdays at 7:00 p.m. We Invite you to Attend our Special Services on Thanksgiving, Christmas Eve, Ash Wednesday, Maundy Thursday, Good Friday Tenebrae Service, Easter Sunrise Service and Breakfast. We offer many volunteer opportunities to support community agencies. We host a free luncheon every Monday open to all. We offer a community garden that is free to all. Meditation and Spiritual Growth
•••
The Lighthouse (Assembly of God) 1833 S. Battlement Parkway Battlement Mesa 285-7236 or 379-5947 (Pastor's cell) Pastor: Dr. Robert C. McNew 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) (A member of the Wisconsin Evangelical Lutheran Synod) We worship on the St. John Community Center Campus (just off of Stone Quarry Road) at 10:00 am on Sunday Mornings and at 7:00 pm on Wednesday Evenings. Everyone Welcome! Weekly Schedule: Monday 9:00 am Ladies Bible Class 9:45 am Kids’ Club, pre-school through 2nd Grade 1:00 pm 8th Grade Catechism 2:00 pm 7th Grade Catechism 3:00 pm 3rd through 6th Grade Bible History Tuesday 9:00 am – 12 noon Office Hours 7:00 pm Pause to Praise Radio Program on KSUN 103.9 Wednesday 9:00 am – 12 noon Office Hours 7:00 pm Soup, Sandwiches and Scripture Thursday 9:00 am – 12 noon Office Hours 7:00 pm Leadership Meeting 3rd Thursday of the Month Sunday 10:00 am Worship 11:00 am SIS (Sisters in Service) meets the 3rd Sunday of the Month 3:00 pm Youth Group meets the 2nd Sunday of the Month Pastor Bill Cornelius Pastor’s Cell Phone (970)-987-3093 E-mail shepherdofthemesa@q.com Web site: www.shepherdofthemesa.org •••
Wellspring of Life Church at Grand Valley Middle School 0364 Sipprelle Drive Parachute Pastor David Bartlett Sunday Service Time: 10 a.m. Youth and Children’s Sunday School 210-5795 210-5849 •••
Page 18, GRAND VALLEY ECHO • Mid-November/Mid-December 2012
Where’s Redstone? The Grand Illumination means the start of the holidays in Redstone
PUBLISHER’S NOTE: Where’s Redstone – and why should you care? The Grand Valley Echo’s nineyear 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 Sue McEvoy With its first blanket of snow, the holiday season has arrived in the Crystal Valley. Lodges, shops and restaurants are making preparations for the festivities. The Redstone Inn is a favorite Thanksgiving dinner tradition for locals and visitors alike. The quaint village of Redstone is all decorated with Christmas lighting by residents and merchants in preparation for Redstone’s traditional welcome to the holidays – the Grand Illumination celebration the day after Thanksgiving on Nov. 23. Santa sets up at the Redstone Inn during the afternoon and invokes the spirit of the season. And for Grand Illumination, a busy afternoon and evening is in store: 1-4 p.m. Santa greets children at the Redstone Inn 4-5 p.m. Caroling down the Boulevard 4:30 p.m. Bonfire lighting, as well as luminary lighting along the Boulevard 5 p.m. Tree lighting at the Redstone Inn 5-8 p.m. Caroling at the bonfire Redstone's shops and restaurants remain open during Grand Illumination, so it’s a great time to get some early holiday shopping done. Warm cheer and shops full of unique gift items are all part of the season now. It’s easy to step back in time with a sleigh ride through the quaint historic village on its one street, Redstone Boulevard. A visit to the Redstone Castle, open for guided tours on Saturday and Sunday, is a chance to see and hear how one of America’s wealthiest industrialists, John Cleveland Osgood, built a coal and steel empire here in Colorado. The castle still features gold-leaf ceilings, Honduran mahogany paneling and Tiffany light fixtures, as well as much of Osgood’s furniture. Just getting to Redstone is a pleasant experience as you leave the busy highways and cruise along the West Elk Scenic Byway starting in Carbondale. The two-lane road winds along with the Crystal River and is soon surrounded by the towering cliffs of red sandstone that give the town its name. 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. Hope to see you in Redstone!
Christmas Tree Rides
Sleigh Rides
Join us for a winter sleigh or wagon ride and go home with your Christmas Tree! $25/pp for sleigh or wagon ride; Ages 6-12 $10, 5 & under, free $40 for the tree • Hot cocoa included Make reservations at The Redstone Inn: 963-2526. PLEASE CALL 24-48 HOURS IN ADVANCE.
Christmas Tree Rides
Book your winter adventure by calling 963-1144 or (229) 221-4590
Winter Trail Rides
Grand Illumination in Redstone Nov. 23rd • SLEIGH RIDES
For the western adventure of a lifetime…
UNDER SPECIAL USE PERMIT FROM USFS OUTFITTER # 2463
• Hourly or full day trail rides • Carriage or wagon rides • Pack trips to scenic Avalanche Lake • First-class, fully guided or drop camp hunts for elk, bear, mule deer, mountain goat or bighorn sheep
Bolling Jones, Owner Randy Melton, Outfitter
970-963-1144
www.redstonestables.com • avalancheoutfitters@gmail.com
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
REDSTONE CASTLE TOURS
REDSTONE ART CENTER New owners: Michael and Stephanie Askew
Tickets available at Tiffany of Redstone, and the Redstone General Store
970-963-1769 225 Redstone Blvd. • Redstone
Saturday, Sunday • 1:30 p.m. (Daily tours start May 14th) Tickets: $15 adults, $10 seniors, children 5-18 Children under 5: FREE (FOR GROUP TOURS CALL 970-963-9656)
CASH OR CHECK ONLY
888-963-3790 • REDSTONEART.COM
www.redstonecastle.us
GRAND VALLEY ECHO • Mid-November/Mid-December 2012, Page 19
THE ECHO CLASSIFIEDS FOR RENT: FOR RENT: Battlement Mesa - 3 bedroom (1 master with large walk-in closet), 2 bath upstairs, end-unit condo. Laundry room with washer/dryer, AC, balcony with closet, 1 car garage with storage room and closet. Rec Center dues included. $1,000/mo. rent; security deposit negotiable. NS, pets considered. Call 704-0373. FOR SALE: FOR SALE: 10’ Garage Door. White w/small decorative windows. In Redstone. You pick up. $300. 970-963-2373 WANTED: WANTED: Cash for your records. Buying and selling old records 33s, 45s and 78s. Clean out your garage and your storage. Jack's Album Attic 285-0215, jacksalbumattic.com, jackor salbumattic@comcast.net info@jacksalbumattic.com Helping to keep the music playing. pd 11-3 WANTED: Geezer garage band seeking geezer bandmates. Are there any exgarage band rock stars out there interested in revisiting their misspent youth? If so, let's see if there are enough of us around to piece together a group. Nothing serious – just jamming for grins. I'm in my 60s, a drummer/percussionist (R&B, blues, R&R and jazz) and can host some sessions at my home in Battlement Mesa. Call Bobby at 285-1624. SERVICES: Pictures by Teresa Stevens. Old West Photo Studio.Next to the Chop Shop Salon. 424 Minter Ave., DeBeque, CO 81630. For an appointment call 5897196. Bring the family, have some fun and take home some memories. PD O/N
Echo Briefs The 2012 KSUN Gala is on Dec. 1 Mark your calendar for 7 p.m. on Dec. 1 for a night of good food, great entertainment, and celebration with friends at the Battlement Mesa Activity Center. Gala details are being finalized with the help of three wellknown chefs, Alain Senac, former owner of the Easy Cuisine, Margaret Cooke, former owner of the White Buffalo and Jane Chapman, current owner of Bodacious Bites. These folks will work hard to prepare a wonderful holiday meal. The gala will be a great night for welcoming in the holiday season with friends. After dinner, Mr. DJ will help everyone kick up their heels with a great mix of musical selections. Whether you prefer Ol’ Blue Eyes or the Village People, you will find your feet ready to move. Tickets are $30 in advance and are available at the activity center, Alpine Bank and Old Mountain Gift and Jewelry. KSUN appreciates your support for its fundraiser. This event helps keep our voice heard. – KSUN Community Radio
Holiday Cookie and Craft Sale on Dec. 8 Grand Valley United Methodist Church in Parachute will hold its annual Holiday Cookie and Craft Sale on Dec. 8 in the Fellowship Hall at 132 North Ave. from 9 a.m. to noon. Fill the container of your choice from trays of homemade holiday cookies. Get in the spirit of season with the aroma of freshly baked cookies. Homemade candy and crafts will also be available. – Grand Valley United Methodist Church
Salvation Army seeks community’s help The Salvation Army is asking for the community's help in providing winter supplies for families and individuals in need. Topping the list of needed items are blankets, sleeping bags, tents, winter gear and stuffed animals. Please drop off donations at the Salvation Army office, 918 Grand Ave. in Glenwood Springs on Mondays, Tuesdays and Thursdays between 10 a.m. and 2 p.m. For more information, call 945-6976. – Roberta McGowan, Salvation Army
Holiday Home Tour takes place Dec. 8 As temperatures begin to fall, four homeowners in Battlement Mesa and Parachute are busy decorating their homes for the PEO’s annual Holiday Home Tour. The Philanthropic Educational Organization’s (PEO) Chapter IP is sponsoring this fundraiser that will be held on Dec. 8 from 1-4 p.m. Ticket are $10. The proceeds will be used to provide scholarships to graduating students in the community. This year’s tour includes homes in Canyon View Village, Monument Creek Village, Stoneridge Circle and Parachute. Cookies and coffee will be provided at the Stoneridge Circle home. The homeowners are excited to share their Christmas collections and decorating styles with visitors. To purchase tickets, call 285-5627 or 285-1112. Tickets are also available for purchase at each of the homes during the tour. – PEO Chapter IP
SERVICE DIRECTORY • Basic and Full Service Oil Changes • Automatic Transmission Flushes • Tire Sales • ASE Certified Mechanic on duty full-time
#1 IN A #2 BUSINESS 24 HOUR EMERGENCY SERVICE! DEBEQUE TO ASPEN
285-9217 120 S. Columbine Ct. • Parachute
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
970-930-0124 P.O. BOX 1349 • RIFLE, CO 81650
Sprinkler Winterization • Fall Clean up Trees – Shrubs – Patios Waterfeatures 876-5981 Licensed • Insured
TO RUN YOUR AD IN THE GRAND VALLEY ECHO SERVICE DIRECTORY CALL 285-7634 TODAY!
Page 20, GRAND VALLEY ECHO • Mid-November/Mid-December 2012