• Serving the Grand Valley since 2008 •
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Volume 5 Number 4
INSIDE
Lift-Up’s new exec. director page 3
Mid-January / Mid-February 2013
Welcome to the Grand Valley Recreation Center The Battlement Mesa Activity Center gets a new name
Colorado singer, songwriter page 5
Mesa Vista News page 13
Dr. Dan Smith returns page 13
It's the same community center everyone knows, though as of Jan. 1, it has a new name. The Battlement Mesa Activity Center on Arroyo Drive in Battlement Mesa is now the Grand Valley Recreation Center (GVRC). GVRC Executive Director Anne Huber said the Battlement Mesa Metro District's board of directors decided to change the center's name to be "more inclusive of the greater community." She said the name change process has been "slow and steady. We're now answering the phone with 'Grand Valley Recreation Center.' I Iove the name 'Battlement Mesa,' but now we're joining other 'Grand Valley' organizations, such as the fire department, the historical society and the high school." (Not to mention the name of this newspaper.) Photo by Anne Huber
Page 2, GRAND VALLEY ECHO • Mid-January/Mid-February 2013
Clarification
•• 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
In the mid-December Grand Valley Echo, Vicki Leuallen took the Santa Claus photos that were submitted by Anne Huber of the Battlement Mesa Activity Center (now the Grand Valley Recreation Center). The Echo wants to credit Vicki properly and thank her for her photos.
103.9 FM
TUNE IN! BROADCASTING 24/7! Syndicated Radio Programs • Local Programming KSUN RADIO – THE VOICE OF THE GRAND VALLEY HIGH SCHOOL CARDINALS KSUN thanks all of our dedicated members. Your membership keeps our station on the air. Your contributions continue to be used to expand our program offerings. If you would like to join, please call Floyd at 285-2246. Membership is only $25.
2013 KSUN ANNUAL MEETING We are in the planning stages for our Annual meeting which will be held in the Spring.Last year’s spaghetti dinner, along with our guest, the Assistant General Manager of the Grand Junction Rockies, was definitely a hit. We are trying our best to offer a similar program for everyone to enjoy.Keep tuned…. we will have details soon!
Hope you will find time to tune your radio to KSUN – 103.9 FM.
KSUn radio - THE VOICE OF THE GRAND VALLEY HIGH SCHOOL CARDINALS. BROADCASTING GAMES LIVE!
**
KSUN COMMUNITY RADIO 398 Arroyo Drive, Battlement Mesa • 285-2246 **Not valid on Valentine’s Day
www.ksunradio.org
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
Anne Huber, David Boyd, Rifle Chamber, Stefanie Kilts, Mary Anderson, Rob Ferguson, Rebecca Ruland, David Walck, Shannia Burns, M.E. Denomy, Charlie Hornick, Tom Hall, Kathy Germano, Annick Pruett, Mitzi Burkhart, Betsy Leonard, Ann Galloway, Jim Klink, Bruce Hoggan, DDS, Sue McEvoy, Karen Martsolf
GRAND VALLEY ECHO • Mid-January/Mid-February 2013, Page 3
O U T D O O R S
BLM to hold meeting to hear from boaters using Ruby-Horsethief By David Boyd, BLM public affairs specialist
Before beginning the second year of its camping permit system for the popular Ruby-Horsethief Canyon section of the Colorado River, the Bureau of Land Management wants to hear how people feel the first year went. BLM is hosting a public meeting on Jan. 15 from 5:30-7:30 p.m. at the Two Rivers Convention Center in Grand Junction. Staff from the BLM’s McInnis Canyons National Conservation Area (NCA) will share data collected during 2012, provide updates on how they felt the system worked, and ask how boaters felt it worked. “We want to take what we learn each year and improve how the system runs,” said Katie Stevens, manager of the McInnis Canyons NCA. “Hearing from the people who are using the area is a key part of this evaluation.” Last year BLM began a new camping permit system for the 35 camping spots available along the Ruby-Horsethief stretch of the Colorado River to better manage the increasing use of this popular area between Loma, Colo. and Westwater, Utah. “We worked closely with private boaters and outfitters over several years to develop this permit system A new fee structure is being put into place on Ruby-Horsethief Canyons' river trips near Loma this year. Photo by Carrie Click – and to identify and improve additional campsites,” BLM did not charge a fee for the permits the first year to focus on the permitStevens said. ting system itself. In 2013 BLM will charge a fee for the camping permits based on Under the permit system, boaters wishing to camp in this area between May 1 group size. Fees would depend on the size of group and campsite selected: a small and Sept. 30 are required to obtain a permit in advance. In 2012 permits for Friday group (1-5 people) will pay $20, a medium group (6-14 people) will pay $50, and and Saturday nights were issued by the Grand Junction Field Office by phone or a large group (15-25 people) will pay $100. Fees collected will be used on-site to in-person, with permits available on a first-come, first-served basis beginning the help manage and improve the area, including maintaining campsites and ensuring Monday 60 days before the weekend of use. Camping permits for the nights with rangers are on-site to assist the public and enforce rules and regulations. less demand – Sunday through Thursday – were available at the launch site. “The fee structure has been approved and will be in place in 2013 for camping “We made the mid-week permits available on-site thinking it would be more permits, but we can discuss its implementation and specifics at the meeting as convenient for campers, but our initial impression is that it makes more sense to well,” Stevens said. issue them consistently with the weekend permits,” Stevens said. “We’re also Specific details about the permit system are available by visiting: looking at extending the hours a person can pick-up permits and making them http://www.blm.gov/co/st/en/nca/ mcnca/recreation/boating.html. available electronically. Before we make any adjustments, we need to hear from the boaters using this area.”
LIFT-UP names Kim Loving as new assistant executive director Effective Jan. 1, 2013, Kim Loving is LIFT-UP’s new assistant executive director after serving as the office manager for the past two years. Her wide range of skills, along with her attention to detail and strong work ethic led LIFTUP's board of directors to select her as the new assistant director for the organization. With 15 years of management and bookkeeping experience, Kim keeps a trained eye on all aspects of LIFT-UP's programs and services. She processes all donations, handles all accounting responsibilities and oversees grant writing for the organization. "I'm grateful for this opportunity,” she said. “My goal is to help LIFT-UP continue the great work it has been doing in this region for the past 30 years. We are stewards of the public's trust, and we strive to use their support efficiently to meet the needs of those in our area who are going Kim Loving through hard times." Kim moved to Rifle with her family four years ago from the Lake of the Ozarks area of Missouri, where she and her husband Brook ran their own insulation business for 10 years. They have three children, Zachary, age 18, and Cheyanne and Dillon, age 15. Kim loves spending time with her family, and enjoys reading, crafts, baking with her daughter, and refurbishing furniture. Kim is part of LIFT-UP's dedicated team of five full-time and five part-time employees who works tirelessly to assist local families in need from Parachute to Aspen. “The board recognizes Kim's hard work, her professionalism and the skills she brings to LIFTUP,” said LIFT-UP's executive director Mike Powell, "and we are fortunate to have her as our assistant executive director."
Outdoor Brief Rifle Gap Ice Fishing Tournament is Jan. 19-20 Kids and their parents are looking forward to another fun day on the ice at Rifle Gap. On Jan. 19 and 20, the Rifle Area Chamber of Commerce will be holding the 15th Annual Rifle Gap Ice Fishing Tournament. This contest is a family event and the numbers increase every year. This year as many as 500 contestants are expected. Goodie bags will be provided for every child with a paid adult registration. Each bag will have items such as Chapstick, hot chocolate, single packets of soup, pencils, hand warmers and fishing tackle. Contact the Rifle chamber for more information at 625-2085, riflechamber.com. 71 Tamarisk Trail Battlement Mesa 285-0117 New Hours Tuesday - Saturday 7:00 a.m. to 3:30 p.m.
Come and join us on January 23rd for our
GRAND OPENING Chamber of Commerce Ribbon Cutting (11:30) Drawings Free Bakery Item with each meal Newly expanded Menu Now serving Breakfast
Call us about our Valentine’s Day Dinner
Page 4, GRAND VALLEY ECHO • Mid-January/Mid-February 2013
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.
• Jan. 15: 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. • Jan. 15: 12 p.m. Ladies Who Do Lunch Bunch meet at the Parachute Branch Library for “The Story of a Beautiful Girl” by R. Simon. Enjoy a potluck lunch. 285-9870. • Jan. 15: 2 p.m. Parachute Branch Library’s Annual Meeting, “Happy Feet.” Join the Friends of the Library and their invited guest, Dr. Gerhard Rill, to learn how to have healthy and happy feet. Dr. Rill is a graduate of the Munich School of Orthopedics. 285-9870. • Jan. 18: 6 p.m. Reel Readers. This month’s selection is “Girl Interrupted” by Susanna Kaysen. Read the book and then join your fellow bibliophiles at the Parachute Branch Library to watch the movie. All are welcome to enjoy the screening, whether you’ve read the book or not. There will be refreshments. Discussion will follow the film. 285-9870. • Jan. 19: 1:30 p.m. Fairy Tea Party. Spend a magical afternoon at the Parachute Branch Library with a Fairy Tea Party. Whatever you wish your fairy to be, so shall your fairy be! Space is limited. Call 285-9870 by Jan. 16 for reservations. This event is for children in grades 3-5 only. • Jan. 19: 2 p.m. The Grand Valley Historical Society’s winter meeting features local archaeologist Curtis Martin, the principal investigator for the Colorado Wikiup Project, who will give a presentation on the indigenous Ute Indians of Colorado. Meeting is at the Battlement Mesa Schoolhouse. No charge, but donations to the society are appreciated. • Jan. 19: 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. • Jan. 19-20: The Rifle Area Chamber of Commerce presents the 15th annual Rifle Gap Ice Fishing Tournament. Call 625-2085 for more information or go to rifleco.org. • Jan. 22: 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. • Jan. 29: 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. • Feb. 1: 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. • Feb. 1: Starting today, call Wells Fargo at 285-7848 to see if you qualify and to make an appointment for free tax preparation assistance through the Volunteer Income Tax Assistance Program. Wells Fargo, 71 Sipprelle Dr., Suite 2, Battlement Mesa. • Feb. 4: 3 p.m. The Good the Bad and the Gross at the Parachute Library. Designed for 4-6 graders, this is a hands-on learning experience, challenging youngsters to be ready for the good, the bad, and, yes, the really gross. 285-9870. • Feb. 7: 2 p.m. Those Thrifty ‘30s. Need some practical ideas on how to stretch those dollars? Come to the Parachute Branch Library for this Big Read event. Learn about everything from coupon clipping to making several meals out of one shopping experience as locals Jeanette Osmon and Barbara Barker share some clever ideas. • Feb. 8: 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.
• Feb. 9: 1 p.m. American Girl Tea Party. Come to the Parachute Branch Library for a fun tea party featuring the movie “Kit Kittredge an American Girl” along with various activities and crafts. This program is limited to the first 15 participants who sign up by calling 285-9870. • Feb 12: 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 project for a day of crafting, food and friends. Bring your own lunch, refreshments will be provided. 285-9870. • Feb. 12: 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.
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 Grand Valley Recreation Center has a variety of exercise classes for preschoolers to seniors. Call Anne, 285-9480. • Every Monday at 11 a.m. come to the Parachute Branch Library for Ready to Read, and interactive storytime with Miss Marie. 285-9870. • 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 Sew and Sew Chairwoman Adelia Inman at 285-9096 or 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, 987-3184. • 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. • Tuesdays in February at 9 a.m., Conquer Mouse Fear: The Beginner Computer Class. Learn to love the mouse, the internet and your new email at the Parachute Branch Library. Conquer Mouse Fear provides a small class size and the opportunity for you to get lots of practice with a skilled instructor to guarantee your success. Class is limited to six, so call 285-9870 to reserve your space today. • 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. • 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. • 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 Grand Valley Recreation Center. • Every Wednesday at 10 a.m. bring your youngster to Toddler Time, storytime designed just for toddlers. Come to the Parachute Branch Library to enjoy games, finger play and more. 285-9870. • Every Wednesday at 11:30 a.m., the Parachute Valley Senior Center hosts a luncheon prepared by the Rifle Senior Center. $2.50 for those over 60. Reservations taken Mondays from 9 a.m.-12 p.m.; call 285-7216. • The first and third Wednesday of every month at 3 p.m., the Battlement Mesa Architectural Committee meets at the Grand Valley Recreation Center. Open to the public. 285-9432. • Every last Wednesday of the month from 5-6 p.m., an Alzheimer’s caregiver support group meets at Alpine Hospice, 1517 Blake Ave., Suite 100B in Glenwood. Andrea, 471-9312. • Battlement Concerned Citizens meet the second and fourth Wednesdays of every month at 1:30 p.m. at the Grand Valley Recreation 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 Grand Valley Recreation 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, 285-2318, 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 Emerson-Burger at the Glenwood Insurance Agency, 1605 Grand Ave., Glenwood, from 6:30-8:30 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.
UPCOMING • Feb. 15: 6 p.m. Reel Readers. February’s selection is “The Grapes of Wrath” by John Steinbeck. Read the book and then join your fellow bibliophiles at the Parachute Branch Library to watch the movie. All are welcome to enjoy the screening, whether you’ve read the book or not. Refreshments will be served. Discussion will follow the film. 285-9870. • Feb. 16: River Bridge Regional Center serving Pitkin, Garfield and Rio Blanco counties, hosts a fundraiser for regional children in need at The Orchard in Carbondale. Live music, silent auction, dancing, beer, wine, food. $45/all inclusive; $55/door. Call 9455195 for more info.
GRAND VALLEY ECHO • Mid-January/Mid-February 2013, Page 5
A R T S
The Colorado Heritage Group RECENTLY REMODLED MF HOME New flooring, kitchen cabinets and counter tops, appliances are ready and waiting for you. Battlement Mesa - $117,000
TRADITIONAL ELEGANCE Oversized garage with workbench and custom cabinets galore. Exquisite interior and finishes. Battlement Mesa - $390,000
ALL PURPOSE CRAFT /HOBBY ROOM Bay window breakfast nook, vaulted ceilings, new main level carpet, work center in garage. Battlement Mesa - $209,900
LAND: MINI RANCHETTE SUBDIVISION Borders BLM property, 360 degree views. 8.38 acres includes a 1500 sq.ft. shop, located close to I-70. Battlement Mesa - $225,000
JUST THE PERFECT HOME Quality, condition, construction all top grade. A real charmer. New paint and carpet. A must see. Battlement Mesa - $158,000
STOP PAYING RENT! OWN A HOME Very nice MF home with lots of updating- interior paint and carpet, appliances, water heater. Battlement Mesa - $89,900
GREAT SIZED CORNER LOT Amenity filled community and a nice subdivision. Corner building site with scenic vistas. Battlement Mesa - $45,000 GOLF COURSE COMMUNITY Impact fees are paid, beautiful views of the Colorado River, 2200 sq. ft. minimum. Battlement Mesa - $75,000 JUST STROLL TO TOWN CENTER This lovely subdivision is surrounded by open space and the building site has many options. Battlement Mesa - $39,900 ENJOY THE VIEWS This vista filled lot abuts the 17th fairway of Battlement's golf course. All impact fees are paid. Battlement Mesa - $68,000
READY TO MOVE IN This MF home is neat as a pin. Formal dining and breakfast nook, premier view filled cul-de-sac lot. Battlement Mesa - $115,000
A GEM OF A LOT Premier building site, great views, upscale subdivision, 2200 sq.ft. min. Enormous views for your new home. Battlement Mesa - $65,000
TWO GREAT LIVING SPACES Lower level has two bdrms, bath, man cave or family room. Main level master, living room and kitchen. Battlement Mesa - $199,000
BUILD YOUR DREAM HOME HERE Impact fees paid, soil survey is completed. This lot is ready for you! Call for info on plans. Battlement Mesa - $42,900
GLORIOUS SPACES TO ENJOY Unique stucco ranch, spectacular windows, borders golf course, high end finishes, first class kitchen. Battlement Mesa - $489,000 WALK TO RECREATION CENTER Pristine townhome community. Lots of kitchen cabinetry, master suite, guest bedroom with private bath. Battlement Mesa - $124,500
LET YOUR IMAGINATION FREE This 160 acre parcel is secluded and seasonally accessible. Zoned for agricultural or residential, partially fenced. DeBeque - $215,000
PRIVATE ENTRANCE GET AWAY Oversized kitchen with lots of cabinets and countertops. Laminate flooring in living, tile floors in kitchen. Battlement Mesa - $189,900
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
&
E N T E R TA I N M E N T
Colorado singer and songwriter weaves music and stories on Jan. 18 By Stefanie Kilts, Colorado Mountain College
Colorado singer and songwriter Leon Joseph Littlebird will weave tales of old and new – of Colorado life and Native American ancestry, as told through visuals, flute and guitar – at a concert at the West Garfield Colorado Mountain College (CMC) Campus in Rifle on Jan. 18. Littlebird said the concert will take the audience on a journey through the history of music, life in Colorado and the beauty of nature, all with a message of “peace, compassion and understanding.” The performances will incorporate images and video choreographed to songs and stories. “This is a multimedia experience that draws people in and makes them feel part of it,” he said. He is performing in Rifle as part of the Jim Calaway Honors Series on Jan 18 in Rifle. Littlebird will also be giving a concert on Jan. 17 at CMC’s Spring Valley location southeast of Glenwood Springs. A third-generation native of Colorado with both pioneer and Native American ancestry, Littlebird draws Leon Joseph Littlebird performs a multimedia presentation at Colorado Mountain College’s Clough Auditorium in Rifle on Jan. 18. from his cultural heritage for Photo courtesy of CMC rich and unique musical experiences. His stories of pioneer life are influenced by his great grandfather, one of the original settlers in Blackhawk, Colo., He connects to his ancestral roots of the indigenous Navajo people of northern New Mexico with ancient flute music. Littlebird’s music and stories touch on his respect for the spirit of the mountains and “great appreciation for where we live and what we do in Colorado,” he said. Littlebird performs all over the country. He was a featured musician and storyteller in 17 performances for the Boston Revels at the Sanders Theater in Cambridge. He has performed with Chicago’s West Suburban Symphony, and at the Healing Arts Concerts for the Mayo Clinic in Rochester, Minn. He was voted “Best Entertainer” in Summit County in the Summit Daily newspaper reader’s poll. Littlebird has released four albums, including “Calling the Spirits,” “Talking to the Ancestors,” and “Higher Stakes.” Although Littlebird travels throughout the U.S. and performs at 40 to 50 venues every year, he said he enjoys the opportunity to return to his home state and perform for local audiences. The concerts will also feature percussionist and projectionist Jeff Shook. Shook has lived in Villa Grove, Colo., for the past 30 years and has owned and operated the Villa Grove Trade, a cafe featuring local food and music, for nine years. Rifle’s performance will honor the late Marvelle Couey Littlebird will perform at the Clough Auditorium on Jan. 18 at Colorado Mountain College in Rifle, 3695 Airport Road. The concert features a dessert reception at 6:30 p.m. and the concert at 7:30 p.m. Tickets are $20 for adults and $15 for full-time CMC students and children up to 17 years. Advance ticket sales are available at 947-8367. For more information, call 947-8367 or visit littlebirdmusic.com.
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GRAND VALLEY ECHO • Mid-January/Mid-February 2013, Page 7
S P O R T S
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R E C
Parachute/Battlement Mesa Park and Recreation District “Where The Fun Begins”
The Sunlight Winter Sports Bus is running Wednesdays and Saturdays By Parachute/Battlement Mesa Park and Recreation District Executive Director Mary Anderson
Congratulations to the 2012 Grand River Hospital team on winning the Fall League Boys’ Basketball Championship. Youth wrestling begins in mid-March. Sign up by Feb. 22. Registration is due by Feb. 1 for Youth Soccer for ages under 10, under 12 and under 14 years old. Dog park update. We want to thank the Mount Callahan Community Fund for donating $750 towards the new dog agility equipment. The dog park is located west of the skate park on Battlement Mesa to the north of Bea Underwood Elementary, overlooking the Colorado River. The Sunlight Winter Sports Buses are now operating. A fee of $15 gives passengers reids to and from Sunlight for the entire season. All passengers must have a reservation and a signed registration form to ride the bus. For reservations, call Rifle Recreation at 665-6570, rifleco.org or register at the Rifle Parks and Recreation office, 202 Railroad Ave., Rifle. The Saturday Youth Sports Bus runs on Saturdays through March 30. Call by the Friday before departure to reserve your spot. The pickup location in Parachute is at the old Kum and Go at 7:15 am.; the bus arrives at Sunlight at 9:15 a.m. The bus departs Sunlight at 3:30 p.m. and drops kids off at the old Kum and Go at 5:40 p.m. Season passes are available. Seating is limited. The Wednesday Adult Sports Bus runs through March 20. Call by 8 a.m. the Tuesday before departure to reserve your spot. The bus picks up at the Daylight Donuts in Parachute at 8:10 a.m. and drops passengers off by 4:45 p.m. The bus arrives at Sunlight at 9 a.m. and leaves Sunlight at 3:30 p.m. 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. Parachute/Battlement Mesa Park and Recreation is at 259 Cardinal Way, Parachute, 285-0388, parachutebattlementmesaparkandrec.org. Check out the website; it’s updated frequently.
Congratulations to the Grand River adult volleyball championship team. From left, Josh Allen, Brittany Conrardy, Chelsea Jones and Julio Aguirre.
Photo courtesy of the Parachute/Battlement Mesa Park and Recreation District
Sponsored by
Parachute/Battlement Mesa Park & Recreation District 285-0388 • Where the Fun Begins"
Page 8, GRAND VALLEY ECHO • Mid-January/Mid-February 2013
Chamber News
Battlement Mesa: ‘It’s a little paradise here” By Anne Huber, Parachute/Battlement Mesa Chamber of Commerce
Featured Parachute/Battlement Mesa chamber board member: Bruce W. Hoggan, DDS Anyone who has met Dr. Bruce Hoggan knows that he has an outgoing personality and a lot of energy. I asked him several questions about his family and their move to Battlement Mesa and he gave some very insightful answers. Bruce and his family moved to Battlement Mesa from Germany in July 2010. He had been an Army dentist prior to moving here. When asked where he is from, he named Missouri, Colorado, Utah and Georgia, but he
calls Colorado ‘home.” “God brought me here,” said Bruce in answer to his reason for moving to Battlement Mesa. “I had other plans, but He knew better. After dumping seven years of preparation to settle in Delta, Colorado, my plans changed in one week with inspiration and answers to prayer. I wish I could take credit.” Bruce married his wife in 2000. They have four children; three boys ages 11, 8 and 5 and one girl, 9 months. He says the boys are smart, hardworking and tough, and their daughter is toughening. He describes his wife Millie as phenomenal and says she has tolerated 10 moves including living in Germany for most of his 15-month deployment in Iraq. Millie has an associate’s degree in family science and home schools their two oldest children. Continued on page 16
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 LOCALLY? Maintain uniqueness Our community’s one-of-a-kind local businesses are an integral part of our distinctive regional character. The unique character of our valley is what brought us here and will keep us here and keep visitors coming back. A local economy of diverse, unique businesses also attracts today’s skilled workers and investors who can choose to settle and grow businesses anywhere. Source: buylocalrogue.org – Anne Huber, Parachute/Battlement Mesa Chamber of Commerce
GRAND VALLEY ECHO • Mid-January/Mid-February 2013, Page 9
Grand Valley Fire Protection District
GRAND VALLEY RECREATION CENTER Zumba, Taekwon Do, Tiger Kung Fu, Cardio Sculpt, Total Body Fitness, Yoga, Ballroom Dance, Indoor Cycling, Water Aerobics, Cardio-Sculpt Lite.
Maintaining your smoke detectors
Call for Schedule and Prices • Personal Training Available
By Deputy Fire Chief Rob Ferguson Ping Pong, Pool Tables, Air Hockey Table and Foosball are located in the lobby and are available to everyone. Swimming Pool temp is 84 degrees • Hot Tub is 104 degrees Morning Indoor Cycling is returning on Tuesdays and Thursdays at 8:10 a.m. Monthly Newsletter is posted on the website:
www.bmac-co.org •
Grand Valley Fire Protection District covers a wide area of residential, commercial and some very remote areas with fire suppression, emergency medical services, fire prevention, public education and training in cardio pulmonary resuscitation (CPR). The district covers roughly 321 square miles. This is I-70 from mile marker 66.4 to mile marker 82.5, then all the way north to Rio Blanco County and south to Mesa County, including three-quarters of a square mile of Mesa County.
(www.gvrc.net coming soon)
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
For the month of December 2012, the fire district responded to 51 calls for service. The same period in 2011 resulted in the same number of calls. This past December, there were: 12 fire incidents 1 structure fire 6 fire alarm 1 brush fires/fire outside/trash/rubbish 2 smoke or odor scares/removal 1 power line down 1 gas leak 24 emergency medical calls 7 vehicle crashes 5 public assists 3 dispatched and cancelled en route
If you should have an emergency, please call 911 as soon as possible!
Between Jan. 1-Dec. 31, 2011 call volume was at 577 calls for service. From Jan 1-Oct. 31, 2012 call volume increased to 650 calls for service. This is approximately a 12.7 percent increase in calls for the fire district from 2011.
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
Training hours per crew: 46.25 Green Crew 38.75 Black Crew 23 Red Crew The fire district has started a smoke detector battery program. If you are unable to buy a battery or you simply could use some help changing out the battery in your current smoke detector, give the fire district a call. We will come out and replace your old or dead battery with a new one, and we will make sure your smoke detector is clean and in good working condition. You should be testing your detector monthly and replacing batteries every six months. If your smoke detector is making short, chirping sounds, that usually means the battery needs to be replaced. If you should have any questions, comments or concerns, please feel free to contact Deputy Fire Chief Rob Ferguson at 285-9119 or by e-mail at opschief@gvfpd.org.
Page 10, GRAND VALLEY ECHO • Mid-January/Mid-February 2013
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S C H O O L S
Letter Gratitude Dear Echo: A huge thank you to the Kiwanis Club for providing gifts, cheer and Santa to our young children at the Grand Valley Center for Family Learning. Every year Kiwanis goes all out to be sure our youngsters experience some magic in the season. We appreciate you! Rebecca Ruland Principal, Grand Valley Center for Family Learning Parachute Mrs. Brandeberry's K-1 class
Photo courtesy of Rebecca Ruland
Ugly Sweater Contest Who says teachers don't know how to have fun? Staff members at Grand Valley High School (GVHS) participated in their first "Ugly Sweater Contest" to celebrate the holidays, which in turn also entertained the students for the day. The contest was sponsored by the counseling department at GVHS and also awarded staff members for sporting an "Ugly Sweater" of any kind. First place went to Mike Johnson with a rather hideous arrangement of oddly placed bows. Second and third places were awarded to Rachel Benson and Ryan Frink which both seemed to be aiming for the Christmas tree look. The competition was a fun way for students and staff to show off their Christmas spirit before leaving for the break. – Shannia Burns, GVHS
THIS PAGE SPONSORED BY:
GARFIELD COUNTY SCHOOL DISTRICT NO. 16 www.garcoschools.org
GRAND VALLEY ECHO • Mid-January/Mid-February 2013, Page 11
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S C H O O L S
Grand Valley High School News
Cardinal tracks Cardinals busy with giving, sports, theatre and music By David Walck, assistant principal, Grand Valley High School Grand Valley High School (GVHS) activities update: • GVHS cheerleaders placed fifth at the State Spirit Championships; sophomore Korrie Hurt was selected as GVHS’s first ever Colorado High School Coaches Association (CHSCA) All-State Cheerleader. • GVHS senior football player Stephan Padilla was selected to CHSCA All-State Football. He will participate in the All-State Games this summer at Adams State. • The Denver Post named GVHS senior football players Trent Reidle and Tanner Zimmerman to First Team All-State. Juniors Tyler Scott and Keanu Kamanawa and senior Stephan Padilla were selected to the Honorable Mention Team. • The GVHS Key Club held a food drive during the holidays to benefit local families. Key Club students challenged their classmates to bring in non-perishables. Mark Jansen’s freshmen advisory group brought in the most food donations. The Key Club also donated time and purchased gifts for the Grand Valley Givers Tree. GVHS Key Club is led Julie Lana. • The GVHS National Honor Society was recognized for its annual blood drive. GVHS had 24 students and staff donate blood. • The GVHS Fellowship of Christian Athletes raised money and donated gifts to an orphanage in Mexico to help the children enjoy the spirit of the Christmas season. • The Grand Valley Fine Arts Department presented the Winter Band/Choir. Students were showcased in solo and group performances. Junior Kayla Epperson and freshmen Chandra Davis, Jonathan Smith and Zach Kelty participated in the Best of the West Honor Band. These students joined 200 other talented high school musicians for two days of intense auditions, rehearsals and master classes, culminating in a virtuoso performance. • The GVHS Theatre Co. competed at the state conference. Advisor Mark Gregory was recognized by the Colorado State Theatre Association for his work in developing statewide curriculum in theatre education. • Winter sports are in full swing. Senior Cody Pfau was named champion and selected as outstanding wrestler at the Delta Invitational. This is one of the first times a female has won a weight classification or been selected as outstanding wrestler for the tournament. Junior Will Hinkle took fourth place at the prestigious Grand Junction Central Warrior Classic Wrestling tournament. Basketball teams are continuing their league play. • We are in need of sponsors and volunteers for the CHSAA 3A Region One wrestling tournament to be held at GVHS Feb. 15-16. • GVHS Volleyball will host an adult volleyball league on Monday nights at GVHS January through March. The cost is $160 for a six-person team and $80 for a four-person team. The league starts Jan. 21. Contact the high school at 285-5705 for information. • GVHS Baseball is selling T-shirts, sweatshirts and hoodies to raise money for their spring season. • A girls’ golf coach is needed for the spring season. Visit garcoschools.org to fill out an employment application if interested. If you have any questions please feel free to contact David Walck at 285-5705 or at dwalck@garfield16.org. As always, thanks for supporting the GVHS Cardinals.
THIS PAGE SPONSORED BY:
GARFIELD COUNTY SCHOOL DISTRICT NO. 16 www.garcoschools.org
Page 12, GRAND VALLEY ECHO • Mid-January/Mid-February 2013
GRAND VALLEY ENERGY A monthly column by M.E. Denomy, CPA
Water use facts, watered down
Ever wonder why there are so many tanker trucks driving up and down the roads near oil and gas developments? Many of them are transporting water to well sites to help with the drilling of a new well. Drilling water is used to help “circulate” down the drilling hole. Water is sent down the drilling pipe and alongside it to help bring up the dirt, rock and other materials in the hole after an area has been drilled. The water is also used to help cool the drill bit from the heat that is created from the friction against underground rock. Completion water is used to help fracture the rocks and formations underground so that the gas can flow to the surface. Up to 600,000 gallons of water can be used for the drilling part of the well. An additional one to five million gallons may be used for the completion of the wells, depending on whether the well goes straight down (vertical) or goes across a large portion of underground land (directional or horizontal). In water use terms, a well can use up to 15.3 acre feet of water. A typical four-person family will use about 300 gallons a day. Breaking this down to an equivalent to the number of about 4,400 residents of Battlement Mesa, a typical well in our area may use about four months worth of water. These water-use facts for oil and gas drilling have encouraged brainstorming by the industry. Lately, I have heard of several different companies working on programs to recycle their water. This industry concern for our other precious natural resource certainly is encouraging. Have a great 2013, and remember, keep hydrated. Mary Ellen Denomy, CPA, is a Battlement Mesa resident and an accredited petroleum accountant She has been nationally recognized as an expert in oil and gas issues. Mary Ellen is the immediate past president of the Rocky Mountain Chapter of the National Association of Royalty Owners. If you have questions, contact her at the naro-us.org website or through the Echo.
Echo Briefs Andrew Kingen advances to Star Scout By Charlie Hornick, Echo contributor Andrew Kingen achieved the rank of Star Scout in December. Star Scout is the third highest rank in scouting. Andrew turned 14 on Jan. 4 and has worked hard to achieve his goals. He has been a Patrol Leader of Troop 255 and has been selected to take on the duties of Quartermaster for the troop. Andrew has a total of 44 nights of camping and more than 60 miles of hiking. He has been active in his community, racking up more than 64 Andrew Kingen hours of community service, helping with the Kiwanis Food Drive for LIFTUP and assisting in cleaning the pathway on the bridge across the Colorado River between Battlement Mesa and Parachute. Andrew has several merit badges and has excelled in rifle shooting and archery. Andrew received the Arrow on Light Award in 2010 and the Totin’ Chip in 2011. Along with others in his troop, Andrew has hiked to the top of different mountains above 14,000 feet. Troop 255 is an active and growing troop, 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 11-17 who are interested in learning more about scouting can contact Scoutmaster Travis Sproles at 250-2584. For questions about the local Boy Scout program, contact Executive Director Jim Graham at 625-9999.
Free tax preparation being offered for eighth year in a row By Tom Hall, CPA (retired) Wells Fargo Bank in Battlement Mesa is hosting a free tax preparation site this coming tax season. This is the eighth year that the site has operated in Battlement Mesa/Parachute. The site is affiliated with the Volunteer Income Tax Assistance Program (VITA). VITA is a free federal and state income tax preparation program that began in 1969. I am a retired CPA and I will be preparing returns at the site, assisted by other volunteers. Free tax preparation will be provided for low to moderate income families/individuals. This includes people who are disabled, and those for whom English is a second language, and who are qualified to file the Federal tax form 1040. In order to complete returns within the allotted time, clients with complex business issues, rentals and other subjects outside the scope of the VITA program will be referred to paid preparers. This site prepares returns with credits, such as the Earned Income Credit, Child Tax Credit, Child & Dependent Care Credit, and the Elderly and Disabled Credit. We also handle pensions, Social Security income and railroad retirement income. Because we E-File returns, refunds may be received more quickly. At the time of their appointment, clients must present a picture ID and Social Security cards for spouses and dependents, as well as all relevant tax documents. You should also bring a copy of your 2011 tax return. Both spouses must be present to sign the return before it is electronically filed. Clients for whom English is a second language should bring a translator. Beginning Feb. 1, call Wells Fargo at 285-7848 to make an appointment. You may need to leave a message when the bankers are busy. Wells Fargo is located at 71 Sipprelle Dr., Suite 2 in Battlement Mesa.
GRAND VALLEY ECHO • Mid-January/Mid-February 2013, Page 13
December festivities at Mesa Vista By Kathy Germano, Mesa Vista Assisted Living Residence activity director We had a wonderful holiday and our annual holiday party was a great time for all. In the new year, we are looking forward to our Matter of Balance classes, presented here at Mesa Vista every Wednesday from Jan. 9 through Feb. 27. A Matter of Balance is an award winning program designed to manage falls and increase activity levels. We are very fortunate to have this free class offered at Mesa Vista for our residents and the public. Mesa Vista also hosts a free toenail clinic, provided by Columbine Home Health, on the first Thursday of every month. To schedule an appointment, simply call Mesa Vista at 285-1844. This month’s birthdays are George Atkins on Jan. 2, Shirley Barr on Jan. 7, Virginia Holub on Jan. 24 and Marcelle Church on Jan. 26. Happy birthday to all. We will be enjoying many indoor activities this month and staying warm. We are always grateful for our volunteers and we do have a few mornings or afternoons available for someone to answer phones and manage the front desk. If you have an interest in volunteering, please call or just stop by. Stay warm and enjoy our beautiful snow covered landscape. Resident Georgianna Hathaway enjoying the holiday party with her son Steve White and Photo courtesy of Mesa Vista daughter-in-law, Sylvia.
Health Brief Grand River welcomes back Dr. Dan Smith Dr. Dan Smith, DO, has returned to family practice at Grand River Hospital District’s Grand River Primary Care in Rifle. Dr. Smith previously practiced in Rifle from 1994-2002. For the past eight years, he has been practicing family medicine and urgent care for the Affinity Medical Group in Kaukauna, Wis. The Smiths’ love for western Colorado never diminished, as Dr. Smith, his wife Diane and their three sons continued to visit and vacation on the Western Slope nearly every year. “I feel privileged to be able to come back to this area and work with the great team at Grand River,” said Dr. Smith when asked why he decided to return to his previous position here. “I am looking forward to returning to my passion of providing healthcare in a rural setting and being an active member of the community.” Dr. Smith is seeing patients at the Primary Care Clinic in Rifle. Call 625-1100 to make an appointment. – Annick Pruett, Grand River Hospital District Dr. Dan Smith
Karaoke with Yvette - Thursday, January 17th - 7pm until close. DAILY SPECIALS UNDER $10 JANUARY SPECIALS Grab n Go Breakfast Burrito w/ham $6 +tax Grab n Go Cheeseburger and fries $7 +tax Open 6:30 a.m. - 9 p.m. M-F • 7 a.m. - 9 p.m. Sat.-Sun. 315 E First Street • Parachute, Co. 81635 970-285-1917 • catering 970-285-7091
The Traveler provides rides to seniors and the disabled all year long
Local seniors over 60 or anyone with disabilities needing a ride any time of year, particularly in winter, have a transportation option with The Traveler, a service provided by Garfield County Senior Services. On Tuesdays, the Traveler goes to and from Rifle, and Thursdays round trips to Rifle, Silt, New Castle and Glenwood Springs are provided. On the second Thursday of every month, transportation is available to Grand Junction. The 16-passenger, wheelchair accessible van offers door-todoor, driver-assisted service. Call 625-1366 for information on cost and to inquire about date, time and destination information.
– Mitzi Burkhart, Valley Senior Center
Page 14, GRAND VALLEY ECHO • Mid-January/Mid-February 2013
Nature at Home and Afield By Betsy Leonard
The importance of indoor air quality
Editor’s note: In December, Betsy Leonard discussed the broader perspective of air quality. In this month’s column, Betsy focuses on the importance of indoor air quality.
When we think of air quality, it is typically about the air outdoors, but increasingly, indoor air quality has become an issue to monitor. Believe it or not, the levels of pollutants in the air inside homes, schools, and other buildings can be higher than the level of pollutants in the outdoor air. Research indicates that people spend approximately 90 percent of their time indoors. Some in our society are more susceptible to effects of indoor pollution, namely, the young, the elderly, and the chronically ill, especially those suffering from respiratory or cardiovascular disease. But all of us must pay attention. Recently, in a conversation with EPA Administrator Lisa Jackson, she stated that five to 500 percent of indoor air is polluted, and indoor air is currently not regulated by the EPA. Additionally, there are no regulations in Colorado directly addressing non-occupational indoor air quality. There are many sources of indoor air pollution and they fall into specific categories: combustion sources (oil, gas, kerosene, coal, wood, and tobacco products); building materials (wet or damp carpet, cabinetry, and furniture made of certain pressed wood products); household cleaning products; central heating and cooling systems (including humidification devices); and outdoor sources, such as radon, pesticides, and outdoor air pollution. Environmental tobacco smoke (ETS) is the mixture of smoke that comes from the burning end of a cigarette, pipe, or cigar, and smoke exhaled by the smoker. It is a complex mixture of over 4,000 compounds, more than 40 of which are known to cause cancer in humans. Children are especially vulnerable to secondhand smoke. It can cause or worsen asthma symptoms and is linked to increased risks of ear infections and Sudden Infant Death Syndrome (SIDS). Don’t smoke at home and ask smokers to smoke outdoors. If smoking cannot be avoided, increase ventilation in the area where smoking is taking place. Do not smoke if children are present, particularly infants and toddlers. In addition to tobacco smoke, major combustion pollutants may be released from stoves, space heaters, furnaces, and fireplaces. These pollutants typically occur from malfunctioning devices and improperly vented sources. A variety of particulates may be released; some may be carcinogenic. Also gaseous pollutants from combustion sources include some identified atmospheric pollutants such as carbon monoxide (CO), nitrogen dioxide (NO2), and sulfur dioxide (SO2). Charcoal should never be burned inside and carbon monoxide detectors should be installed in your home. Mold and other allergens can arise from a host of means, but there are two primary classes a) moisture-induced growth of mold colonies and b) natural substances released into the air, such as animal dander and plant pollen. Mold is always associated with moisture and its growth can be inhibited by keeping humidity levels below 50 percent. Use exhaust fans in bathrooms and kitchen, and vent clothes dryers to the outside. Cover mattresses and wash bedding and soft toys frequently in water at a temperature above 130 degrees to kill dust mites. Vacuum carpets and upholstered furniture regularly. Control exposure to pets. Indoor air quality is a complex topic. This column has just scratched the surface. A follow-up column will examine further categories of indoor air pollutants, and will explore remedial actions. Betsy Leonard is an environmental education specialist who lives in Parachute.
GRAND VALLEY ECHO • Mid-January/Mid-February 2013, Page 15
Protect your baby’s oral health By Ann Galloway, NP-C, Grand River Student Health Center
Children’s dental health begins in the womb. According to Cavity-Free at Three, “Caring for your Baby’s Teeth” and “You’re Pregnant!” publications, a baby’s first teeth begin developing around the third month of pregnancy. During pregnancy it is important for the mother to take good care of her teeth and gums. Hormonal changes that occur during pregnancy can increase the risk of developing gum disease, which may affect the mother’s and the baby’s health. Expectant mothers should: • brush their teeth twice a day with a fluoride toothpaste • floss their teeth daily • drink water or low-fat milk and avoid sugary beverages like soda or juice • eat a healthy, balanced diet and be sure to include dairy products to help in the development of the baby’s teeth, gums and bones • avoid sugary snacks • keep regular dental check up appointments during the pregnancy
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
New parents can do several things to help their children have a healthy mouth and remain cavity-free: • Do not put your baby to bed with a bottle of anything other than water. • Wipe baby’s gums with a soft, clean wash cloth after each feeding; even before the baby’s teeth come in. • After the baby’s teeth come in, wipe the teeth after each feeding, especially along the gum line, with a soft cloth or a soft bristled toothbrush. • Brush the baby’s teeth twice a day; once in the morning and once before bedtime. Use a soft, bristled children’s toothbrush and a small dot of fluoridated toothpaste. Wipe off the teeth when finished brushing until the child is old enough to spit out the toothpaste. • Children need an adult’s help with brushing until they are 8 years old. • Make sure you provide healthy food choices as your baby starts eating solid foods. Avoid sugary and sticky foods such as fruit roll-ups, raisins, candy or soda. • Wean from the bottle to a cup by age one. • Dilute juices with water. • Avoid putting things in your mouth and then putting them in the mouth of your baby. Avoid sharing toys and pacifiers between children. Sharing saliva is one way the bacteria that causes tooth decay can be spread. • Make sure your child sees a dentist by their first birthday. If you have concerns about your child’s teeth or gums, make a dental appointment even sooner. Both Medicaid and Child Health Plan Plus (CHP+) offer dental services to children.. • Keep regular dental appointments as recommended by the dentist for yourselves as well as your children. Ask about fluoride varnishes for your child’s teeth.
Remember, baby teeth are important. Prevention of tooth decay is much less costly than treatment. Use of fluoride is one of the single most important ways to avoid tooth decay. Next month, we will look at ways to assure fluoride adequacy for ourselves and our children.
Ann Galloway is a certified nurse practitioner who works at the Grand River Student Health Center in Parachute.
Page 16, GRAND VALLEY ECHO • Mid-January/Mid-February 2013
H I S T O RY
Archaeologist Curtis Martin to speak to Grand Valley Historical Society The Grand Valley Historical Society (GVHS) will hold its winter meeting on Jan. 19 at 2 p.m. at the Battlement Mesa Schoolhouse. The program will feature local archaeologist Curtis Martin, the principal investigator for the Colorado Wikiup Project, who will give a presentation on the indigenous Ute Indians of Colorado. Using several slides of wikiup shelters, tipi frames, tree platforms, and meat-drying and utility racks that have survived in the mountains and plateaus throughout Colorado, Martin will give an overview of the earliest occupants of the state, going back as far as 13,000 years. He will also discuss the methods used for analyzing and dating these archaeological finds. Martin Meceived his bachelor’s and master’s degrees in anthropology from the University of Colorado and has served as project archaeologist at the university’s Mesa Verde Research Center. He also worked on the re-excavation of the Lowry Ruins near Cortez. In addition, Martin has worked as an archaeologist for the Colorado State Highway Department, the Museum of Northern Arizona, and a series of private cultural resource management firms throughout the western United States and in Switzerland. The program is open to the general public at no charge, though donations to the GVHS are appreciated. Refreshments will be served after the presentation. – Grand Valley Historical Society
Chamber’s Dr. Bruce Hoggan Bruce’s approach to his education resulted in his having money saved instead of accumulating debt upon completion of his degrees. He is proud of the fact that he obtained his bachelor’s degree without financial assistance from his family. He took the Army route to pay for dental school. He continued his education by completing an elective residency “for fun.” He misses only two things about the Army: “Living in Europe and legally driving his old and beat-up BMW 150 miles an hour on the Autobahn.” H-Dentistry opened in September of 2010 in a new custom-built office at 225 Callahan Ave. in Parachute and offers almost every service that dentistry has to offer. His favorite services are root canals, extractions and other surgeries. His customers range in age from 12 to 102. He employs three great people who “totally rock.” The H-Dentistry website contains extensive information about dental health and recommendations for preventative care at hdentistry.com.
From left, Bruce and Millie Hoggan on the doctor’s scooter. Dr. Hoggan examines his son Allen’s teeth in his office. Photos courtesy of Bruce Hoggan, DDS
continued from page 8
Bruce joined the Parachute/Battlement Mesa chamber because it is fun to be involved in the community. His business philosophy is “have fun or do something else.” He volunteered to be on the chamber’s board of directors because services were needed. Recently, Bruce introduced an all-new chamber website that has more options for members and visitors to the website. His goal for the chamber is to make chamber membership more attractive to all businesses. “We absolutely love living here,” said Bruce. “We’ve lived in and traveled to and through so much of the world. It is a little paradise here. People, in general, are very friendly to boot!” As always, the chamber is looking for businesses that would like to support our communities by becoming a member of the Parachute/Battlement Chamber of Commerce. For more information, call 285-0388.
GRAND VALLEY ECHO • Mid-January/Mid-February 2013, Page 17
FA I T H
As I See It
• The Echo Worship Directory •
Same color with a range of shades
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 I am indebted to the Reverend Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. for so forcefully, yet peacefully, bringing to the forefront the importance of seeing and treating one another equally. At least once each year I read Dr. King’s “Letter from a Birmingham Jail” written to several leading clergy in the Birmingham area on Easter weekend in 1963. That letter and his famous “I Have a Dream” speech, delivered that same year in August, have not only been a source of encouragement and challenge to millions, but to me personally. I am moved every time I read those now famous addresses. Dr. King was also known for his wonderful sense of humor. He was a man who knew how to make others laugh and often he would prove his point after getting congregations and audiences to laugh at themselves. While I have not been able to find the exact source, I remember a humorous story, which I believe was passed down through him that went something like this: Two college students, one Caucasian and another African American, had become the best of friends. As such, they were able to tease each other and at the same time share true feelings. The African American student had become somewhat annoyed with his friend’s regular reference to him as “colored.” So one day, he gave him this response: “You know, when I was born, I was black. When they took me home from the hospital, I was black. When I am cold, I am black. When I get too much sun, I am black. When I get sick, I am black. When I die, I will be black.” The African American student continued, “But you, when you were born, you were pink. When they took you home from the hospital you were white. When you get cold, you turn blue. When you get too much sun, you turn red. When you are sick, you turn green. And when you die, you will turn purple. Yet, you call me colored.’” Dr. King reminded us that we are all colored. First, we are all descendants of Adam and Eve and then later we are all descended from Noah and his wife. This means we are all related. More importantly we were all made in the image of God, created equally. When Christ came he demonstrated love for all and died for all, without partiality. We now know that we are all various degrees of the same color. One pigment, called melanin, produces our skin color. Melanin has two major forms, which combine to give us the particular shade of skin we have. It is interesting to note that when you trace the migration of the descendants of Noah’s three sons, you find both light and dark-skinned groups. It is even possible for one couple to produce a wide range of skin shades in just one generation of their children. Prejudice, based on skin color, is therefore stupid as well as sinful. We all must see to it that Dr. King’s dream becomes a reality that his children “one day continued on page 19
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-January/Mid-February 2013
Where’s Redstone? Snowshoe Race/Walk circles the Redstone Castle Feb. 2
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.
Sleigh Rides
By Sue McEvoy, Echo staff writer
Would you like to get a little fresh winter air while enjoying some beautiful surroundings? Snowshoers both highly competitive and decidedly not are invited to one of Redstone’s favorite winter events. On the morning of Feb. 2, snowshoe racers and non-competitive walkers who just want to enjoy the scenic trail circling the historic Redstone Castle are invited to Redstone for this fourth annual race and walk. The event starts at 10 a.m. in the west parking lot of the Redstone Inn. Registration is available on the morning of the race at the Church at Redstone starting at 8 a.m. Pre-registration can be completed at Independence Run and Hike located at 586 Highway 133 in the La Fontana Plaza in Carbondale. The 5K (approximately three-mile) course follows a snow-packed single lane road alongside the beautiful Crystal River and underneath the maroon sandstone cliffs that give the Redstone its name. After crossing the wide-open grounds of the Redstone Castle, the course loops into tall forest and circles back to the Redstone Ski Area – or more like the circa-1960 T-bar lift that stands quietly abandoned on the property. The United States Snowshoe Association sanctions the race. A benefit for Hospice of the Valley, registration is $20 and includes a raffle ticket for one of many donated prizes. So strap on some snowshoes (available for rent) and come out to Redstone for the day. And for more information, go to redstonecolorado.com.
Winter Trail Rides Book your winter adventure by calling 963-1144 or (229) 221-4590
For the western adventure of a lifetime… • 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
UNDER SPECIAL USE PERMIT FROM USFS OUTFITTER # 2463
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-January/Mid-February 2013, Page 19
THE ECHO CLASSIFIEDS FOR RENT: FOR RENT - PARACHUTE: Three bedroom, two and a half bath townhome. Fenced patio, opposite park and one-car garage in family neighborhood. All appliances including washer/dryer. N/S, security deposit. $850 per month. Call 618-4930.
SERVICES: SERVICES: Mike's Home Maintenance Service - Providing home service for the Battlement area. Lawns mowed from $15-35. Leaf removal/gutters cleaned. General home maintenance. Minor plumbing. House painting. Tree trimming and clean-up, $45-70/tree. (Note: Globe willows shed multiple limbs and excess leaves - this can be controlled with correct trimming.) Call Mike 285-9330. 12-3 pd SERVICES: Laptop or desktop all brand repair. Broken screen? Running slow? Blue or black screen? Virus? We provide SALES, REPAIR, TRADE-IN, OR RECYCLING. We can fix most problems quickly. Free pick-up and delivery. We accept all credit tfn cards. Call Dick at 250-5154
FOR SALE: FOR SALE: Laptops for Less. Giving a computer as a gift or just need one? Order from COMPUTECH today. Dell, HP and Toshiba laptops from $180 and up. Fully loaded with programs and guaranteed! We now accept all credit cards. Call Dick at 250-5154. tfn 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, jacksalbumattic@comcast.net or info@jacksalbumattic.com Helping to keep the music playing. pd 11-3
As I See It continued from page 17 live in a nation where they will not be judged by the color of their skin but by the content of their character.” I am grateful for what I have witnessed in our community through the clergy here as well as the police force, fire department, school system, and civic organizations. Time after time I have seen a pastor or principal or teacher or public official demonstrate compassion as well as non-biased professionalism. They model their belief that all of our residents here matter, each is important. While I am not naïve to think we have arrived to say we have properly dealt with prejudice, I will say I am greatly encouraged. I expect to see Dr. King in heaven with multitudes in white robes from every shade imaginable, their skin color enhancing their celestial beauty. I hope to thank Dr. King personally for wonderfully demonstrating by words and example that we are all the same color, just different shades.
Health Brief Influenza confirmed in Mesa County; residents encouraged to receive flu vaccine now The Mesa County Health Department, Garfield County’s neighboring county, is reporting increased influenza activity, including hospitalizations, testing, and outpatient doctor visits. It takes up to two weeks for individuals to develop maximum protection from the influenza vaccine and since it may take up to six weeks for influenza to spread in a community, this increased activity serves as an important reminder that it is time to receive an annual flu vaccine if you have not already done so. Influenza begins abruptly with fever, chills and body aches. It is also characterized by a dry hacking cough, sore throat, and watery eyes. Although influenza is a respiratory infection, the whole body can be affected. On average, people who get the flu spend two days in bed and have another four days of restricted activity, including time away from work. Most recover in one to two weeks. Mesa County Health Department recommends staying home when sick, washing hands frequently and covering the mouth when coughing to avoid spreading the illness to others. Complications of influenza include sinus infections, ear infections, bronchitis and pneumonia. Influenza and pneumonia combined are the sixth leading cause of death in the United States. Those at greatest risk of complications from influenza include individuals over the age of 65, those with heart, lung, and kidney disease, diabetes and other chronic disease; children on chronic aspirin therapy; and those with weakened immune systems. Mesa County Health Department is offering the injectable flu vaccine for $20 and the flu mist for $25 if paid at time of service on a walk-in basis at the Grand Junction office located at 510 29 Road. Call 248-6900 for times and appointments. For the most current flu information please call the Mesa County Health Department’s pre-recorded information line at 248-6989 or visit health.mesacounty.us. – Karen Martsolf, Mesa County
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
Logos • Brochures Advertising Book layout & design
970-930-0124 P.O. BOX 1349 • RIFLE, CO 81650
Alyssa Ohnmacht
• 963-2373
TO RUN YOUR AD IN THE GRAND VALLEY ECHO SERVICE DIRECTORY CALL 285-7634 TODAY!
Page 20, GRAND VALLEY ECHO • Mid-January/Mid-February 2013