2013 Grand Valley Echo March

• Serving the Grand Valley since 2008 •

Providing a voice for community-based organizations and individuals that enrich the life of the Grand Valley FREE

Volume 5 Number 6

INSIDE

Mid-March / Mid-April 2013

Farewell Antero, hello Ursa New oil and gas company purchases mineral leases under Battlement Mesa, in and around Silt, and in the Piceance Basin

By Carrie Click, Echo editor

Groundbreaking page 3

Bountiful Baskets page 3

Tae Kwon Do page 7

Our schools pages 10-12

Described by one of its executive staff as a “tiny” oil and gas exploration and production company, the Houston-headquartered Ursa Resources Group II has joined other energy industry players with interests in the Piceance Basin’s and Grand Valley’s natural gas reserves.

The privately-held Ursa Resources paid $325 million last October for mineral leases previously held by Antero Resources, which is a much larger publicly-traded company with corporate headquarters in Denver. Although the purchase was made last fall, Ursa’s actual operations start on March 31.

According to Don Simpson, Ursa’s vice president of business development, Antero sold its Colorado assets because of Antero’s growing focus on its eastern operations in West Virginia, Don Simpson is Ursa Resources' vice president of business development. Ursa Pennsylvania and Ohio. purchased local mineral leases from Antero Resources last fall; Ursa begins Photo courtesy of Ursa Resources The lease sale includes about 60,000 acres located in four areas: operations March 31. the Piceance Basin north of Parachute; the Battlement Mesa planned unit development (PUD) and areas surrounding it; on land both north and south of Silt; and in the Thompson Divide area in south Rifle. In contrast, Antero employs about 150 people.

Ursa has established offices in Denver and Rifle in anticipation of southwest of Carbondale. Nearly all of the acquired leases are generating natural gas production in the area, and Simpson has located in Garfield County, with a small portion in Mesa and Pitkin moved to Denver from Houston counties. new company, Ursa’s principals and employees For a relatively Of particular interest to Parachute and Battlement Mesa resihundreds of years of experience in the oil and gas indusrepresent dents is what Ursa plans to do with the mineral leases the compatry. ny now owns directly underneath Battlement Mesa. For those liv“About 80 percent of us are ex-Shell employees,” said Simpson. ing in the area, reaction about the acquisition runs from optimism by design. Shell is a big company with a good reputation.

“That’s over the possibilities of gas field jobs coming to the area to curiosiwork well together.”

We ty about what will happen next. eight other principals, Simpson has an extensive Like Ursa’s “We in Battlement Concerned Citizens [BCC] are waiting to hear Besides earning a bachelor’s in petroleum energy background. what Ursa’s plans are for natural gas development in and around land management and general business from Louisiana State Battlement Mesa,” said Dave Devanney, a member of BCC, the University and an executive MBA from the University of local citizens’ group that monitors local energy industry activities a 25-year career at Shell to become Houston, he moved on from and how they may affect area residents. “We are hoping to hear that a part of Ursa’s team.

Ursa will be able to extract their natural gas without drilling in the He is joined by Ursa President and CEO Matthew Steele, who PUD by using current drilling methods and hopefully horizontal worked at Shell and was an independent consultant and founding drilling methods. partner of several oil and gas prospecting companies before heading However, Simpson said Ursa Resources is not intending to drill up Ursa.

Matt Hackworth, Ph.D., vice president of new ventures, in the PUD anytime soon. also worked at Shell in several capacities worldwide, as did Dan “We will try to stay out of the PUD as long as we can,” said of subsurface for Ursa. vice president Wrona, Simpson. “We have no immediate plans to drill this year in the Providing the capital for Ursa’s acquisitions and operations is PUD; however, we do have plans to drill outside [of the PUD].”

Denham Capital Management, a $4.5 billion private equity firm.

“We have some of the wealthiest energy investors in the world Who is Ursa?

The company, which was founded in 2008, has about 20 people investing with us,” Simpson said. “And they’re not just providing working at its Houston headquarters. Fifteen staff members are continued on page 5 employed in its Denver office, and five employees work at its office

Page 2, GRAND VALLEY ECHO • Mid-March/Mid-April 2013

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.

HAPPY SPRING

Mother Nature and Father Time Dear Echo: If I can find a lawyer to take the case on contingency, I will file a suit for parental abuse. Having reached the number of 87 years, I believe I am exhibit A evidence and will not need additional proof of damage.

Guilty parties are Mother Nature and Father Time with the possibility of adding Old Man Winter. I asked my older brother to join the suit and he said he would. He added that I should seek triple damages.

Jack E. Blankenship Battlement Mesa

Have a story idea?

Contact the Echo gve@crystalvalleyecho.com

Nalini's Restaurant 257 1ST STREET • PARACHUTE

285-0199 Now Open 6am-7pm

New Breakfast Menu • Omelettes • Eggs any style served with country potatoes, fruit, or sliced tomatoe

• Eggs Benedict • Avocado Eggs • French Toast • Crepes • Variety of Pancakes

Also, a variety of pupusas and Mexican food

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

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.

Ursa Resources, Annick Pruett, Rifle Funeral Home, Julie Lana, Sara McCurdy, KSUN, Renelle Lott, Don Chance, Keith Lammey, Mary Anderson,

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.

Anne Huber, Bob Haynes, Rob Ferguson, Parachute/Battlement Mesa Chamber of Commerce, Jeanne Mills, Cassie Tigert, Addyson Harper, Jessie Pressler, Charlie Hornick, Debbie Crawford Grand Valley Center for Family Learning, Sierra Berger, Miguel Valles, Haley Johnson, Tanner Zimmerman, Tarianna Lawrence,

DISTRIBUTION/CIRCULATION STEVE PAVLIN Dawn Distribution • 963-0874

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

Ivan Arizaga, David Walck, Kathy Germano, Barbara Barker, Ann Galloway, Kimberly Henrie, David Boyd

GRAND VALLEY ECHO • Mid-March/Mid-April 2013, Page 3

G R A N D

Obituary

VA L L E Y

N E W S

James Leland Rhodes Dec. 7, 1946 – Feb. 20, 2013 James Leland Rhodes of Parachute passed away Feb. 20 at Grand River Hospital in Rifle.

He was 66.

Jim was born on Dec. 7, 1946 in Fort Collins to Clarence L. and Isla Ruth Rhodes. He grew up in Spokane, Wash. where he graduated from West Valley High School in 1964.

Jim was active in youth programs at Spokane Valley United Methodist Church. Jim loved to sing and toured the Pacific Northwest as part of the Valliairs Trio. After graduation he worked for the railroad and in Alaska on a survey team.

As a young man Jim lived and worked in the Denver area as a Realtor. In 1990, while living in Montana, he met his life partner, Maxine. Together they moved to Spokane where Jim owned several businesses.

In 2001, he moved to Parachute, joined the Royal Order of Moose and eventually retired.

Jim's greatest passions were fishing, classic cars, football, his golden retriever Buddy and an ice cold beer. Jim will be greatly missed by his loved ones and many friends.

Jim leaves behind his life partner, Maxine; daughter Dawn M. Rhodes and daughter-in-law Jan Cormack both of Dalbeattie, Scotland; daughter, Jennifer and son, Christopher; brother Larry (Claire) Rhodes, niece, Sarah and nephew Stephen all of Surrey, British Columbia; Aunt Alice Louise Mooney of Glenwood Springs; and Aunt Lois Rhodes of Denver.

Cremation has taken place and a memorial service will be held at a later date.

In lieu of flowers the family suggests donations to Hospice of the Valley in Basalt or the Food Bank of the Rockies - Western Slope Online condolences may be made at riflefuneralhome.com.

From left, Grand River Health CFO Randy Glassman, E. Dene Moore Care Center Administrative Director Dusty Dodson, Grand River Board Treasurer Mike Miller, Keith Lammey, Grand River Health Board Member Tami Sours, Garfield County Commissioner Tom Jankovsky, Parachute Town Manager Bob Knight, Parachute Mayor Judy Beasley, Director of Clinic Services Lois Kame, Grand River Board Vice President Marcia Kent , Grand River CEO Jim Coombs and Dr. Kevin Coleman.

Photo courtesy of Annick Pruett

Grand River Health Clinic West breaks ground

More than 150 community members from Parachute and Battlement Mesa gathered on March 5 as Grand River Health officially broke ground on its new 36,000-square-foot medical facility in Battlement Mesa.

The new facility will offer a state-of-the-art medical clinic, an occupational health and safety center, physical therapy, and lab and diagnostic imaging services and is scheduled to open in the first quarter of 2014.

– Annick Pruett, Grand River Health

Bountiful Baskets now delivering weekly to Parachute Bountiful Baskets Food Co-op has become a part of the Parachute/Battlement Mesa community. The co-op is distributed at the Grand Valley Fire District Station on Stone

Quarry Road.

Parachute participants can order on a weekly basis. As a group, the co-op is able to purchase high quality produce at wholesale prices and then items are distributed evenly among site participants. It is a great way to bring healthy food to the table at an affordable price.

Bountiful Baskets is not a business; it is a completely volunteerrun food cooperative that utilizes its purchasing power as a group to buy items at wholesale prices.

Conventional produce baskets are offered every week. The contribution is $18 a week for first time participants and $15 for returning participants plus a processing fee of $1.50 each week to cover costs.

Organic baskets are also available

for an additional $10.

Baskets contain a variety of fruits and vegetables from order to order. Participants may choose from extra items (at extra cost) such as breads, specific fruit or vegetable packs, granola and cases of fresh fruit.

Participants may order as often as they like. All orders are made online at bountifulbaskets.org, beginning at 12 p.m. on Monday until 8 p.m. on Tuesday each week. Baskets are picked up the following Saturday between 10:45 a.m and 11:30 a.m.

Participants who do not pick up their baskets during the set time donate their baskets to the fire station.

If you are interested in Bountiful Baskets, please stop by the fire station any Saturday duringpick-up times to see what types of items are available.

– Julie Lana, Bountiful Baskets

Page 4, GRAND VALLEY ECHO • Mid-March/Mid-April 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.

• March 16: 1 p.m. Celebrate St. Patrick's Day at the Parachute Branch Library by going green. Come to the library for face painting lessons, search for the gold coin and more. This program is limited to middle school students. Free. 285-9870.

• March 17: Happy St. Patrick’s Day. • March 19: 12 p.m. Ladies Who Do Lunch Bunch meet at the Parachute Branch Library for a discussion of “Heading out to Wonderful” by Robert Goolrick. Enjoy a potluck lunch. 285-9870.

• March 21: 1 p.m. Wii Bowling Challenge: Grumpy Old Men vs. The Gracious Ladies at the Parachute Branch Library, 244 Grand Valley. Cabin fever setting in this winter? Sign up for a Wii Bowling Challenge and have more fun and exercise than you have had in years. Learn what a Wii is, and then learn to bowl the modern way.

Participating men will challenge the ladies. Wii Bowling is fun to play and to watch. Free. 285-9870 or gcpld.org.

• March 25: 3 p.m. Anime Club at the Parachute Branch Library, 244 Grand Valley Way. Do you love Manga and Anime?

Join us to talk about your favorites, get recommendations, and practice your drawing skills. Free. 285-9870 or gcpld.org.

•March 26: 10 a.m. The Battlement Mesa Ladies Golf Club hosts Welcome to Golf Season Coffee at the Fairways Cafe pro shop. Women golfers of any and all ability levels are welcome to have some coffee, catch-up after a long winter, and preview the coming season which will include a Solheim “Experience.”

• March 26: 1 p.m. Make & Take Ornament Club at the Parachute Branch Library, 244 Grand Valley. If you start now, you'll be set for the holidays. Every month the library holds a class on crafting a different, one-of-a-kind ornament. This month’s ornament is an easy to cut and hand sew felt ornament. Participation is free, but registration is required. Call 285-9870 or stop by the Parachute Branch Library to register and to receive a materials list.

• March 27: 1 p.m. Popcorn and a movie at the Parachute Branch Library, 244 Grand

Valley Way. Kids are invited to come to the Parachute Branch Library for a matinee screening of “Diary of a Wimpy Kid: The Dog Days.” Popcorn will be served. Free.

285-9870 or gcpld.org.

• March 28: 10:30 a.m. Marble marble madness at the Parachute Branch Library, 244 Grand

Valley Way. Free. Kids in grades 1-8 are invited to create amazing marble mazes

Come celebrate spring break with some marble madness.

For more info 285-9870 or gcpld.org.

• March 28: 2 p.m. Photo U at the Parachute Branch Library. High school students are invited to explore the world of digital photography. Whether you’re interested in landscape photography or

portraiture, check out this program to learn about capturing the picture and then what you can do with it. Bring your own camera or check out one of ours, and begin the journey. Sign up is required. To check out a camera you need a valid GCPLD library card. Call 285-9870 with any questions or to pre-register.

• March 30: 1 p.m. The Grand Valley-Parachute Kiwanis Club will hold its annual Easter Egg Hunt on the grounds of the Grand Valley Recreation Center. In case of inclement weather, the hunt will be held inside the center. Parachute and Battlement Mesa children through the age of 10 are invited to hunt for some of the 1,000 eggs that will be hidden. The Easter Bunny will be in attendance so parents can take a keepsake photo of their children.

• April 1: April Fool’s Day. • April 2: 9 a.m. E-mail for beginners at the Parachute Branch Library. Email is an environmentally friendly, super easy and fast way of communicating, and, it’s free. This is a five week class, with classes held every Tuesday through April 30. By the end of the program, you will be very comfortable with all the features of e-mail, specifically Gmail.

Reserve your seat today by calling 285-9870 or for more info visit gcpld.org.

• April 4: 5:30-8:30 p.m. The Energy Advisory Board meeting to encourage positive communication and responsible energy development is at the Rifle Branch Library, 207 East Ave., Rifle. For topics and more, go to garfieldcounty.com/oil-gas/energy-advisory-board.aspx, or contact Denice Brown at 625-5915.

• April 8: 3 p.m. The Good the Bad and the Gross: Oil & Water Don’t Mix edition, 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. Program is limited to the first 15 participants who sign up by calling 285-9870.

• April 9: 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.

• April 11: 6 p.m. KSUN’s annual meeting is at the Grand Valley Recreation Center featuring keynote speaker, Cecil Lammey, Denver Sports ESPN Station’s NFL Insider. A lasagna dinner will be served. Tickets are $15 can be purchased at the Grand Valley Recreation Center and at Alpine Bank. 285-2246.

ONGOING • March Madness Marble Counting. Come to the Parachute Branch Library anytime in March for March Madness Marble Counting. Check out our jar of marbles, and guess the correct numbers of marbles (without losing your marbles), and win our Cabin Fever basket.

• 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.

• 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.

• 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 second Monday of every month at 1 p.m., the Grand Valley Citizens Alliance meets at the Rifle Branch Library community room. Leslie, 618-0890.

• 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., 800272-3900, 987-3184.

• 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.

• Pinochle club, every Tuesday at 1:30 p.m. Want to learn to play pinochle or improve your skills? At the Valley Senior Center, 540 N. Parachute Ave, Parachute. Enjoy pinochle, a good time and snacks. Instructors are happy to assist everyone of any age, and the group meets to enjoy the game and to socialize. Feel free to drop in any Tuesday.

Call 285-9755 for more information.

• 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, 2850388, 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. continued on page 14

GRAND VALLEY ECHO • Mid-March/Mid-April 2013, Page 5

Echo Briefs Battlement Mesa Ladies Golf Club season starts April 2 The Battlement Mesa Ladies Golf Club is hosting a Welcome to Golf Season coffee at 10 a.m. on March 26 at the Fairways Cafe pro shop.

Women golfers of any and all ability levels are welcome to have some coffee, catch up after a long winter, and preview the coming season.

The 2013 ladies golf season will begin on April 2, with a general meeting at 8:30 a.m., followed by a 1-2-3-Waltz shot gun start at 10 a.m.

– Sara McCurdy, Battlement Mesa Ladies Golf Club

2013 KSUN annual meeting to feature Cecil Lammey, ESPN Radio’s NFL Insider Cecil Lammey is the keynote speaker for KSUN Community Radio’s upcoming annual meeting on April 11 at the Grand Valley Recreation Center in Battlement Mesa. KSUN, Battlement Mesa’s community radio station is planning an exciting evening of football conversation, along with a lasagna dinner.

Cecil Lammey is an NFL Insider for the Denver Sports ESPN Station 102.3; he is also a fantasy football expert for The Denver Post. Come listen to his breakdown of the courtship between the Denver Broncos and Peyton Manning.

Lammey’s experience comes from the numerous games, Super Bowls and NFL drafts he has

attended and covered. Hear his take on the upcoming NFL draft and what it will bring for the Broncos.

Complementing the evening’s entertainment will be a wonderful lasagna dinner prepared by Alain Senac, former owner of Easy Cuisine. Doors open at 6 p.m. with a cash bar available.

Tickets are $15 and can be purchased at the Grand Valley Recreation Center and at Alpine Bank.

– KSUN

exemption appears on the tax notice as a reduction of the total amount of taxes due. Qualifying seniors must have owned and lived in their homes since Jan. 1, 2002, have attained the age of 65 by Jan. 1, 2012 and filed the exemption application

by July 15, 2012.

– Renelle Lott, Garfield County

Parachute Visitors Cabin needs volunteers New online payment portal for Garfield County property tax payments A new system for online payments is available for Garfield County property taxpayers. The new payment portal allows taxpayers to complete property tax payments by credit cards or Echecks, with automatic posting to property tax records and immediate verification of payments.

To utilize the online payment portal, taxpayers may visit the Garfield County website treasurer’s home page at garfield-county.com/treasurer.

Online payments have a $3 additional fee for Echeck payments, and a 2.5 percent convenience fee charge for credit card payments. There is a minimum charge of $3.95.

Payments for property taxes may also be made to the treasurer’s office by cash, check or money order, or through bill pay options offered by banks.

The state legislature has funded the Senior Homestead Exemption for tax year 2012. The

The Parachute I-70 rest stop Visitors Cabin is opening for the season on April 1.

The cabin is staffed by volunteers from the Parachute and Battlement Mesa areas. Additional volunteers are needed for the upcoming season. If you are interested, contact Dave Devanney at 2852263 or Don Chance at 285-5627.

Volunteers may serve any day of the week, including weekends. The morning shift runs from 9 a.m.-1 p.m. and the afternoon shift from 1-5 p.m.

Volunteering at the cabin is an interesting and rewarding experience. You will meet and greet travelers from all over the world, answer their questions and assist them with maps, brochures and travel directions.

Wi-Fi is available in the cabin so that visitors and volunteers may use their laptops, tablets and smartphones.

– Don Chance, Visitors Cabin volunteer coordinator

Cover story

from page 1

funding for natural gas. They’re also [backing] alternative energy like solar, geothermal and wind.”

Business friendly Simpson said the company has not had much opposition to its energy industry activities in other parts of the country.

“We didn’t have much pushback in North Dakota and Montana,” he said. “They’re pretty business friendly.”

He said Colorado is different. He’s seen more divergent groups coming forward to express their opinions – more so than anywhere else – and he’s worked in the energy industry in multiple regions around the world.

“I’ve never witnessed so many splintered groups as I have here,” Simpson said. “There’s Common Ground, the Rifle, Silt, Parachute, New Castle [RSPN] group, there’s Silt, there’s Peach Valley, there’s the Thompson Divide Coalition and Wilderness Workshop… so many people want a say.”

Simpson said that Ursa’s bottom line is to reach energy reserves with minimal impact. He explained his company’s philosophy to a community meet-and-greet gathering in Battlement Mesa on March 5.

“This [was] an opportunity for the community to meet and ask questions of some members of Ursa’s team and for Ursa’s team to meet the community and share its current plans of development with the community,” said Kirby Wynn, Garfield County oil and gas liaison.

“We all need to work together,” Simpson added. “It’s better to work things out.”

Page 6, GRAND VALLEY ECHO • Mid-March/Mid-April 2013

Battlement Mesa Service Association

Battlement Mesa’s oil shale history

By Keith Lammey, Battlement Mesa Service Association Based upon the size of the crowd that attended Andrew Gulliford’s talk about Colorado oilshale’s past and future, there seems to be a lot of interest in that segment of our local history.

Andrew Gulliford’s book, “Boomtown Blues” tells much of our area’s oil shale history. Dr. Gulliford’s hour-long talk was both informative and entertaining. He is a professor at Fort Lewis College in Durango and a former Silt resident.

Most residents know that any local history discussion wouldn’t be complete if it didn’t include the boom and bust history of the area. Nearly everyone who lives in or has visited the Grand Valley has heard the sad tale of one of Parachute’s first residents, Mike Callahan, and his cabin: Despite warnings from Native American residents, Callahan built his fireplace out of shale rock. When he built a fire in his new fireplace, the kerogen in the shale rock burned, which then caught his new log cabin on fire.

Despite the lessons of Mike Callahan and his unfortunate loss, many Parachute and Battlement Mesa residents don’t seem to really understand what shale rock is, how plentiful it is in western Colorado and Utah, and why it is so difficult to extract the kerogen from the rock. Anyone wishing to know more about shale should read, “What Every Westerner Should Know About Oil Shale: A Guide to Shale County” by the Center of the American West. A copy of this 61-page report is available on BattlementMesaColorado.com.

The report’s authors describe Colorado’s Piceance Basin oil shale beds as “the richest known deposits.” They refer to an estimate of the shale deposits’ size by James Bartis, a senior policy researcher at the RAND Corporation, who, in 2005, estimated the combined Colorado, Utah and Wyoming Green River Formation shale deposits at 800 billion barrels, or more than triple Saudi Arabia’s proven reserves. (One barrel equals 42 gallons of oil).

The first oil shale boom began 100 years ago in 1913 when the US Geological Survey identified the large oil shale deposits in our region. Three years later, in 1916, President Woodrow Wilson withdrew 45,444 acres in Colorado and 86,584 acres in Utah from the public domain and designated it as the Naval Oil Shale Reserve.

The year 1916 was just prior to World War I and the US was worried about having an adequate source of fuel during the anticipated war. It is amusing to read now, but then Secretary of the Interio, Franklin K. Lane assured us that, “it is now possible to work selected deposits of shale in [economic] competition with the oil from oil wells, and that these oil-shale reserves can be considered of immediate importance to the oil industry and to the defense of the nation.”

According to the report, by 1922 approximately 100 firms were fully engaged in the effort to extract kerogen from oil shale but any hope of success was wiped out by the subsequent Great Depression.

Interest in oil shale re-ignited during World War II as the result of oil shortages. In 1944 Congress passed the Synthetic Liquid Fuels Act and the Bureau of Mines opened a new research project at Anvil Points, near Rifle. Work at Anvil Points ended in 1956 when the government suspended the funding for the Anvil Points facility, in part, because the war had ended and oil seemed plentiful.

The period of plentiful oil came to an abrupt halt following the 1979 Iranian Revolution and subsequent oil embargo. In 1980, President Jimmy Carter, signed the Energy Security Act of 1980. The act created the Synthetic Fuels Corporation which provided loans, price guarantees and other financial incentives for so-called synfuels projects.

In May 1980, Exxon paid $400 million to buy out Atlantic Richfield Company (ARCO) and The Oil Shale Company (Tosco) to develop the 22-square mile Colony Oil Shale Project north of Parachute. The project was projected to cost $5 billion, according to Exxon. Most residents thought they’d struck gold until it all ended on May 1, 1982, also known as Black Sunday, but you probably know that story.

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IMMACULATE, EASY CARE RANCH Transom windows add sunlight and views, xeriscape landscaping, cozy den/office, eat-in kitchen.

Battlement Mesa - $158,000 WALK OUT FINISHED BASEMENT Entry courtyard with deco fence, tiled kitchen, entry and laundry, living room with vaulted ceilings.

Battlement Mesa - $229,900 CUSTOMIZED MASTER CLOSET Custom bookcases in library and loft, wet bar, very large laundry with lots of storage and sink.

Battlement Mesa - $375,000

IMAGINE THE POSSIBILITIES Newly remodeled, versatile unit with office/ store front space and a 1400 sq.ft. workshop with garage door.

High traffic area close to I-70, restaurants and shopping.

Rifle - $199,900

LAND: NEW WORKSHOP ON 8.38 ACRES Premium views in all directions, utilities to property line, well in place, 1500 sq.ft. brand new workshop.

Parachute - $225,000 TAKE A LOOK AT THIS LOT Nice home site in a covenant protected subdivision. 1600 sq.ft. minimum, great amenities.

Battlement Mesa - $45,000

WALL TO WALL SPACIOUSNESS Well designed and maintained ranch, laundry room, aggregate driveway and patio, move-in ready .

Battlement Mesa - $195,000 ROOM FOR ANYTHING AND EVERYTHING Family room down, living room up, five bedrooms, chef's kitchen with island bar, open space scenery.

Battlement Mesa - $289,900 TILED FAMILY ROOM, WET BAR Cathedral ceilings on main floor of this elegant townhome, loads of room, chef ready kitchen.

Battlement Mesa - $199,000 GEORGEOUS GOLF COURSE VIEWS Beautiful stucco home in park-like setting, hot tub, bonus room for guests, walls of windows.

Battlement Mesa - $489,000 FLEXIBLE FAMILY FLOOR PLAN Very large kitchen with center island, built-in hutch. Laminate flooring in living, family and dining.

Battlement Mesa - $176,900 BETTER THAN RENTING MF home, cul-de-sac street location, split bedroom plan, extended patio, walk to elementary.

Battlement Mesa - $89,900

GOLF COURSE COMMUNITY Impact fees are paid, beautiful views of the Colorado river, 2200 sq.ft. minimum.

Battlement Mesa - $75,000 BEST BUY IN EAGLES POINT Enjoy the amenities of Battlement Mesa, Great subdivision with views and walking trails.

Battlement Mesa - $39,900 BREAK GROUND THIS SPRING Upscale golf course subdivision, lot overlooks 17th tee with spectacular views of the Battlements.

Battlement Mesa - $68,000 THE SCENERY IS FOREVER Expansive lot , golf course subdivision, serene setting, tap fees paid, versatile building envelope .

Battlement Mesa - $65,000 ONE OF THE LAST LOTS LEFT Monument Creek Village subdivision in amenity filled Battlement. Site specific building plans available.

Battlement Mesa - $42,900 LOOKING FOR A GET-AWAY? Secluded 160 acres north of De Beque, unimproved acreage bordering some BLM, 360 degree views.

DeBeque - $215,000

WILDLIFE, SPACE AND PRIVACY Walk-out ranch - 3600+sq. ft. play room, living and family room, five bedrooms, large deck, brick patio.

Parachute Rural - $415,000

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-March/Mid-April 2013, Page 7

S P O R T S

Battlement Mesa Tae Kwon Do

&

R E C

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

Spring and summer mean baseball, softball, soccer – and more

By Parachute/Battlement Mesa Park and Recreation District Executive Director Mary Anderson

Battlement Mesa Tae Kwon Do held testings in January and February for promotion in rank. From left, Senior Master Bob Haynes, Cayden Sproles, Conner Sproles (both promoted to first gup high red belt); Caleb Hughes, promoted to seventh gup high yellow belt, and Bruce and Allen Hoggan promoted to eigth gup yellow belt.

Congratulations to all who tested!

Current programs: • Youth Sports - baseball, softball, soccer, tiny tot soccer, tball and wrestling. Call 285-0388 for program information.

• Adult sports - softball. Call 285-0388 for program information.

• The Sunlight Winter Sports Bus requires that all passengers have a reservation and a signed registration form to ride the bus.

For reservations and cost, call Rifle Recreation at 665-6570, rifleco.org or register at the Rifle Parks and Recreation office, 202 Railroad Ave., Rifle.

• Sarno Sports Talk, a national sports radio show with a local twist is live on KSBP-KSUN Community Radio 103.9 FM. Catch the show Mondays at 12:30 p.m. and Fridays at 10:30 a.m. with host Eric Sarno. Also available on the web at ksunradio.org , email ksunradio@comcast.net or on twitter @SarnoSportsTalk.

KSUN Radio is located at the Grand Valley Activity Center. For more information call 285-2246.

This summer: • The second annual Challenger Sports British Soccer Camp returns this summer. There were more than 60 participants last year. The camp runs Aug. 5-9. For more information, visit challengersports.com or call Eric at 285-0388.

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.

Sponsored by

Parachute/Battlement Mesa Park & Recreation District 285-0388 • Where the Fun Begins" Attending the February testing, top row from left, Senior Master Bob Haynes, Joy Kelty, Gordon Hoyt, Dr. Bruce Hoggan, Caleb Hughes, Master Dan Griffin (testing official); second row, Bailey Hoyt, Connor Sproles, Cayden Sproles, Allen Hoggan. Kneeling, Ben Lopez, testing conductor.

Photos courtesy of Bob Haynes

Monday through Friday 9:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m.

Saturday 9:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m. • Closed Sunday

We are a full service salon offering: Family Hair cuts, Framesi Italian Colors, Perms, Waxing, Tanning, Spa Pedicures and Nail enhancements along with Shellac Nail Color.

We have a vast variety of handbags and wallets as well.

LX Maui Midnight and Mary Anderson barrel racing in Arizona. LX Maui Midnight and Mary Anderson won $900 and a trophy headstall. LX Maui Midnight and Mary Anderson ran five competitive barrel racing runs in seven days.

Photo courtesy of Mary Anderson

101 CARDINAL WAY IN PARACHUTE, CO •

285-6664

Page 8, GRAND VALLEY ECHO • Mid-March/Mid-April 2013

Chamber News Clark’s Market’s Vinnie Tomasulo joins chamber board Vinnie Tomasulo is a new of the member Parachute/Battlement Mesa Chamber of Commerce Board of Directors. By returning to Parachute in 2012, Vinnie is coming home to the town where he grew up and graduated high school before going off to college.

Vinnie has a degree in economics and business from the University of New Mexico and has worked in banking and real estate and is now combining education and life experience as the manager of Clark’s Market in Battlement Mesa. Citing a May 2012 Echo article, it’s Vinnie’s way of giving back to his hometown.

Vinnie says he joined the chamber because he

feels it is very important that Clark’s be an active member in the community in every possible way and the chamber is a great vehicle for that.

He agreed to be a board member because he felt he could be an asset and bring some new blood to the board.

As for goals, he really wants to do everything he can to ensure the continued vitality of the local economy. He feels that all business organizations in our community, no matter what size, should be working together to keep our money local when possible because buying and selling local benefits us all.

– Anne Huber, Parachute/Battlement Mesa Chamber of Commerce

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? Invest in the community: Local businesses are owned by people who live here, work here and are invested in the community with much more than just their dollars. According to buylocalrogue.org and localfirstchicago.org, this makes locally-owned and operated businesses less likely to leave and more likely to be invested in how their business decisions affect the community.

– Parachute/Battlement Mesa Chamber of Commerce

GRAND VALLEY ECHO • Mid-March/Mid-April 2013, Page 9

Grand Valley Fire Protection District Fire district ramping up for wildland fire season

By Deputy Fire Chief Rob Ferguson

103.9 FM

TUNE IN! KSUN THANKS ALL OF OUR DEDICATED MEMBERS. YOUR MEMBERSHIP KEEPS OUR STATION ON THE AIR.

2013 KSUN ANNUAL MEETING WELCOMES CECIL LAMMEY, AN ESPN NFL INSIDER Please join us on April 11th which will be held at the Grand Valley Recreation Center. This year’s keynote speaker will be Cecil Lammey, an NFL Insider for the Denver Sports Station 102.3 ESPN. He is also referred to as a fantasy football expert. He has been covering NFL happenings since 2003, including trips to numerous bowls and the NFL drafts. Let’s hear what he thinks of the 2013-14 Denver Bronco draft hopes.

Our event will include a lasagna dinner, prepared by Alain Senac (formerly of Easy Cuisine) and a great time with our keynote speaker. Tickets are $15.

Hope you will find time to tune your radio to KSUN – 103.9 FM. You can catch all of the high school basketball games live!

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

www.ksunradio.org

GRAND VALLEY RECREATION CENTER GVRC CAN BE A PART OF YOUR 2013 FITNESS GOALS MAKE AN APPOINTMENT WITH A PERSONAL TRAINER or sign up for a weight room safety class TIFFANY CHAPMAN – 970 234 6867 • TOM MOHER – 625-2847 Ongoing Classes – Join Anytime – Zumba, Cardio Sculpt, Total Body Fitness, Taekwon Do, Tiger Kung Fu, Indoor Cycling, Water Aerobics & Yoga New Morning Classes for Indoor Cycling, Cardio Sculpt Lite & Introduction to Taekwon Do For hours, class schedule and prices call 285-9480 or check the website:

www.gvrc.net Battlement Mesa Metropolitan District oversees the operations of the water and wastewater plants and also owns Grand Valley Recreation 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 Recreation 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

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 cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR). The district covers roughly 321 square miles. This is I-70 from mile marker 66.4 to mile marker 82.5, and all the way north to Rio Blanco County and south to Mesa County, including three-quarters of a square mile of Mesa County.

For the month of February 2013 the fire district responded to 52 calls for service: 8 fire incidents 5 fire alarms/carbon monoxide alarms 3 fire outside/trash/rubbish 31 emergency medical calls 5 vehicle crashes 4 public assists 3 gas leaks/hazmat assignments 3 dispatched and cancelled enroute

If you should have an emergency, please call 911 as soon as possible!

Training hours per crew: 108.5 Green Crew 76.5 Black crew 108.5 Red Crew The fire district is starting to ramp up for wildland fire season. We will be testing our pumps, inspecting hand tools, and testing our fire hoses. Staff will conduct their annual wildland pack test. This is a three-mile hike with a 45-pound backpack that each person must wear and they must complete the hike in no longer than 45 mins and 45 seconds.

We will also be doing our annual refresher classes for wildland firefighting.

We are still issuing burn permits up until Memorial Day. No burning is allowed after dark. Once the winds start kicking up, all open burns will need to be extinguished by noon each day. Please remember to have enough clear space between your home and any brush to minimize your home’s risk to wildland fires. This area could be 30 feet or more depending on vegetation and how steep the slope is of your property. Residents should be aware that the fire district will not be conducting any prescribed burns this year. This is as a result of last year’s prescribed burns throughout the state.

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. Make sure your smoke detector is clean and has a good battery in it. You should be testing your detector monthly and replacing batteries every six months.

If your smoke detector is making a short, chirping sound that usually means the battery needs to be replaced. Remember if you have a question you can always call the fire district office and we will be glad to help you.

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-March/Mid-April 2013

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Terrific Kids for February 2013 The Parachute/Battlement Mesa Kiwanis Club sponsors Bea Underwood Elementary School and Grand Valley Center For Family Learning’s Terrific Kids.

The program promotes character development and self-esteem. “TERRIFIC” is an acronym meaning Thoughtful, Enthusiastic, Respectful, Inclusive, Friendly, Inquisitive and Capable.

Grand Valley Middle School Black bear attacks in Colorado

By Cassie Tigert, GVMS Did you ever wonder if people really get attacked by black bears in Colorado? In fact, people do. Most victims are hikers who go really far up in the mountains and get attacked by black bears. In 2012, lots of people got attacked by black bears.

Most black bear attacks happen in the mountains. Some attacks happen in Aspen.

Black bears can get into homes, and if a bear is in the house, it could attack those inside and kill them.

People don't expect to get attacked by black bears, so we should make some kind of warning to let residents know what kind of bears are here in Colorado. We should make signs to put up saying, “Black bears in the area,” to let the hikers know they are at risk.

Bikers and joggers get attacked regularly. When most joggers are jogging, they listen to music and cannot hear what is around them, so it’s easy to imagine a bear attacking them unexpectedly. Bikers could get attacked because they ride their bikes down the trails so fast, bears could easily be hiding in the bush, waiting for the noisy biker to come within range. If bikers hear a noise in the bush, they probably won't have time to stop, and they might lose control and crash in the bear’s territory.

Black bears might look cute and friendly, but don’t let the face fool you. Black bears can be dangerous. People who feed bears are breaking the law and doing something extremely unsafe. If you keep feeding bears, they will keep coming back regardless of time or convenience. If you stop feeding them, they will come to get the food because they know it’s there.

All and all, there are many reasons people get attacked by black bears here in Colorado. So please, be careful while you’re hiking in the mountains and keep your trash covered.

Are children smarter or more socialized because of the internet?

Bea Underwood Elementary School February’s Terrific Kids from Bea Underwood are, from left, first row, Bill Coelho (Kiwanis representative), Mallory Goodman, Colton Clark, Arianna Adams, Opal Morganthaler (Kiwanis representative); second row, Samual Hemmert, Adrian Mancinas, Emilio Garcia, Kayla Rider; third row, Kathy Keeling (BUE principal), Clayton Baker, Kenlei Edgar, Savannah Drinkhouse, and Jacob Photo courtesy of Jeanne Mills Andersen Not pictured: Bailey Gaskin

By Addyson Harper, GVMS These days, children and teenagers are wasting their lives away on electronics, but are any of these devices actually benefiting our youth in some way?

Today, 87 percent of 12-17 year olds are online, according to a 2005 Pew Research Center report. That is a 24 percent increase in the past four years, and some parents are concerned with the information being given to their children.

Michigan State University psychologist Linda Jackson, PhD, performed tests that show that internet use may improve standardized reading test scores. The thought is that spending so much time on the computer and on various social networks can even help younger children learn to read. Some people even prefer their children to learn online because you can combine the fun of learning with activities that seem like games. The internet is actually a classroom masked in social networks and search engines.

Think about how often you use the computer in your average day. Weekly? Daily?

Hourly? Maybe by the minute? Even if the internet is helping our reading capabilities, it may not be helping our physical physique.

These days if you get a new cell phone it’s the best thing since cotton candy; but whatever happened to getting a new board game, sitting with the family and doing something productive? Just because you have a cell phone doesn’t mean you should spend all of your time texting until your thumbs are sore. You should go outside every once in awhile as well. It’s a good idea to also go outside and stay active, no matter what.

Make sure you're making the right choice because technology can either benefit your life or control it.

Let’s make it illegal

Center for Family Learning January/February’s Terrific Kids from Bea Underwood are, from left, back row Bill Coelho (Kiwanis representative,) Opal Morgenthaler (Kiwanis representative,) Talia Velasquez, Andrew Horner, Rachel Swidell, Clancy Swindell, Victor Chaparro, Kadence Johnson; front row Mrs. Ruland, Leela Lutz, Josias Carrasco, Madelyn Chavarria, Rebekah Tollefson, Giselle Ortiz, Kaelee Sabata, and Chloe Williams

By Jessie Pressler, GVMS I think that it should be illegal to smoke cigarettes.

There are many reasons smoking cigarettes should be illegal. To start, there are way too many young people starting to smoke, who aren't even the legal age. There are smoking ads in other countries which show children smoking probably so adults don't think it’s that bad. The legal smoking age is 18, but teens think it’s really cool to smoke and they pressure their friends into it. Usually, teens get away with smoking cigarettes if they have a smoking parent, because they won't be able to smell it on them or anything.

Another reason smoking should be illegal is that it can kill you. Nicotine is a drug and cigarettes could have rat poison in them.

Smoking should be illegal for all people, and we should make it illegal right away in America and possibly in other countries as well. The public could save a lot of money without so many more new people becoming addicted each year. America should make smoking illegal because it will make our country healthier and happier. This is why I think that cigarettes should be illegal.

Photo courtesy of GVCFL

THIS PAGE SPONSORED BY:

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

GRAND VALLEY ECHO • Mid-March/Mid-April 2013, Page 11

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Grand Valley High School News When asked how it feels to be rewarded for being the most improved student of the month, he responded, “I felt successful, confident, and known.”

Three words that say it all.

He also stated “I studied for tests and didn't mess around. I'm sure I did what I had to do to earn the award.”

Congratulations Jesus for getting it done in school and being responsible for your education.

Student of the Month Trent Reidle

By Haley Johnson, GVHS

Varsity boys round up for their last home game for the Photo courtesy of Sierra Berger 2012-13 season.

Fighting Until the Very End

By Sierra Berger, GVHS The Grand Valley Cardinal Boys Basketball team fought hard from beginning to the end. No matter what came their way, victory or defeat, they always pushed themselves to greatness.

The boys proved that they aren’t a team to mess with and that they are full of talent. They started off playing on a rough patch. Many key players were injured but the others stuck together and played their hearts out. Every player put everything they had into each game and fought for each other.

After school the boys would be in the gym working hard to show up at the next game prepared to play better than they did in the game before.

Practices provided the boys with confidence in their minds, hearts and basketball shoes. Cardinal boys proved that they’re a team capable of defeating any team in the state.

Senior Trent Reidle said, “It didn’t end the way we wanted, but we fought back from a tough start.

Sometimes things don’t always go as planned, but that’s how we learn from things and keep moving on.”

Even though their season was cut short, the boys still played well. They played not only for themselves, for Grand Valley High School and the community that they have made so proud.

The boys had a season full of ups and downs, but they always walked off the court with their heads held high. Good job Cardinal boys.

Most Improved Student Jesus Marin

By Ivan Arizaga, GVHS The Most Improved Student for the month goes to senior Jesus Marin. With his strong work ethic he has earned this award and proven to both the staff and his peers that he is committed to academic success.

This is Jesus’ first year here at Grand Valley and it has been tough. However, he has always pushed himself forward to continue achieving.

Grand Valley High School selects four students every month out of the whole student body for the community and the school to honor for their personal achievements.

Senior Trent Reidle is honored as a Student of the Month.

When asked what his greatest achievement are, he stated, “Winning All-State in football for the wide receiver position.”

And when asked who motivates him, he answers simply “My teachers and coaches.” His plans for the future consist of majoring in economics at Dennison University.

Although Trent is going off to fulfill his dreams, his legacy will be left behind him at Grand Valley as a hard worker, a good athlete and an outstanding student.

Student of the Month Jordan Scott

By Tarianna Lawrence, GVHS Jordan Scott is an exceptional person who has high goals and is determined to succeed. Grand Valley High School is proud to present her with the award of Student of the Month.

What did you have to do to earn this award?

Jordan: “I am very involved and keep my grades up.”

What activities are you involved in?

Jordan: “I am in volleyball, basketball, soccer, key club, and F.C.A.” What do you plan on doing when you get out of high school?

Jordan: “I plan on pursuing further education going wherever the good Lord takes me from here.”

Who is your hero?

Jordan: “My hero is my Mom. She always has a smile on her face and is truly an inspiration; I love her to death and I know that I can come to her with anything.”

Jordan deserves this award. She has a great relationship with her peers, with God and with her family. Congratulations Jordan, on receiving this award. Grand Valley wishes you the best of luck in your future and hope you achieve all your dreams.

“I can do all things through Christ who gives me strength.” (Philippians 4:13).

GVHS state competitors get ready to begin their fight to the finish.

Photo courtesy of Miguel Valles

The best in the west

By Tanner Zimmerman, GVHS Exhausted GVHS senior wrestler Michael Salazar found his arm raised in victory after the Western Slope regional wrestling tournament championship match.

The tournament was a success for Salazar, who wrestled and defeated four opponents to win the 160-pound title at the tournament in his home gym.

The road to the last match wasn’t easy. “The second match, I found myself almost getting pinned, I scrambled to bridge and get out of the move that would have pinned me. I honestly got lucky, but I was determined to ride the match out because I was up in points to win. There’s no feeling that can explain how I felt after my hand was raised to be Grand Valley’s only regional champ; it was a dream come true,” said Salazar.

Salazar was also proud of his fellow GVHS wrestlers Jr. Stagg, Cody Pfau, Will Hinkle, Bryan Hegwood and Tucker Shultz who did not win their weight classes but advanced to state.

Salazar was pleased with his performance at the regional tournament and was excited to represent his school for the fourth time at the state tournament at the Pepsi Center in Denver.

Wrestler Cody Pfau also made huge strides by making history not only for the school, but for female wrestlers at a state level meet by winning her first-ever state wrestling match.

All the wrestlers worked tremendously hard to make it to state and the results included: State level Junior Will Hinkle went 0-2. Senior Tucker Schultz went 1-2 and finished his career. Senior Stagg went 3-2 and finished 6th, ending a great career at GVHS. Senior Michael Salazar went 3-2 and finished 6th ending his great career at GVHS. Junior Bryan Hegwood went 2-3 and finished in 6th place.

Needless to say, we are proud of our wrestling program and the success our athletes have had, along with legendary coach Rick Gallegos who always puts an exceptional team on the mat. Now, it is time for the wrestlers who still have time left to put in the time and effort to better themselves for next season, looking for a shot to be crowned best in the west.

THIS PAGE SPONSORED BY:

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

Page 12, GRAND VALLEY ECHO • Mid-March/Mid-April 2013

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Cardinal Tracks

Cardinals wrestlers go to State 3A Tournament

state and earned First Team All Conference. At 160 pounds, senior Michael Salazar was Regional Champion, qualified for state and earned First Team All Conference.

At 170 pounds, junior Bryan Hegwood took second, qualified for state and earned First Team All Conference. Congratulations to Coach Gallegos and Coach Frink on sending six athletes to state.

By David Walck, assistant principal, Grand Valley High School Grand Valley High School (GVHS) activities update: • A huge thank you to the sponsors and volunteers who helped make the 3A Region 1 Wrestling Championships a success. We had many volunteers who stepped up to make the regional event one of the best in recent years. Thanks to Alpine Bank, Wells Fargo, Josten’s, Rick and Denise Gallegos, Clark’s Market, City Market and Daylight Donuts for their donations.

• The GVHS Wrestling Team completed their season with much success, competing in the 3A Region 1 Tournament at GVHS. The Cardinal team took fifth place out of 12. At 106 pounds, senior Cody Pfau took second, qualified for state and earned All Conference Honorable Mention. At 113 pounds, sophomore Jacob Hegwood took sixth place. At 126 pounds, Jr. Miguel Valles took sixth place. At 138 pounds, senior Tucker Schultz took third, qualified for state and earned All Conference Honorable Mention. At 145 pounds, senior Junior Stagg took third and qualified for state. At 152 pounds, junior Will Hinkle took second, qualified for

• GVHS then competed in the 3A State Tournament. Senior Cody Pfau made wrestling history by winning her first round match to become the first ever female wrestler to do so. Unfortunately, she went 2-2 and finished her illustrious career without a medal. Junior Will Hinkle went 0-2 and did not place. Senior Tucker Schultz went 1-2. Senior Junior Stagg went 3-2 and finished with a sixth place medal and a great career at GVHS. Senior Michael Salazar went 3-2 and finished with a sixth place medal and a great career at GVHS. Junior Bryan Hegwood went 2-3 and finished with a sixth place medal. Congrats to all the GVHS wrestlers.

Also, a huge thanks to senior Jordanne Williams for all of her efforts managing the team.

For more on the wrestling team, see Tanner Zimmerman’s story “The Best in the West” page 11.

• The GVHS Drama Club and International Thespian Society members raised an amazing $1,431.03 for their “Pennies for Patients” fundraiser that benefits leukemia research.

• Our spring sports programs have started their seasons with success and optimism. Go to garcoschools.org for up-to-date information and a calendar of schedules. If you would like to get the weekly announcements, send an e-mail to dwalck@garfield16.org to be added to the mail list.

• GVHS Band and Choir students competed at the CHSAA Solo and Ensemble.

The participants are given a score of one through four, with one being the highest honor. GVHS senior Sam Vaskin received a one in percussion; junior Hanna Cornelius received a one; freshman Jon Smith received a one; sophomore Ethan Ball received a one; junior Kayla Epperson received a two; freshman Chandra Davis received a two; and junior Desiree Smith received a two. Congrats to all.

• Congratulations to senior Patrick Avila, junior Shania Burns, and senior Alex Hughes on representing GVHS at the regional National History Day competition at Colorado Mesa University.

• Congratulations to senior Tanner Zimmerman on signing to play football at Colorado Mesa University. We are proud of you.

• Parents of athletes and activity participants, go to lynnjshorephotographist.zenfolio.com to check out pictures from different GVHS events. The pictures are for sale.

•GVHS is working on a grant to improve the athletic facilities. We are hoping to use our facilities in conjunction with Parachute/Battlement Mesa Park and Recreation programs and other entities. If you are interested, you can help support this project with a financial contribution so that we can make the 30 percent needed to earn the grant. We have already raised $230,000 and still need to raise $70,000.

If you have any questions please, contact Assistant Principal and Activities Director David Walck at 285-5705 or at dwalck@garfield16.org. As always, thanks for supporting the GVHS Cardinals.

Senior Tanner Zimmerman, center, has signed to play football with Colorado Mesa University, with mom Angie, father Jim, and coach Mike Johnson standing by.

Photo courtesy of David Walck

GRAND VALLEY ECHO • Mid-March/Mid-April 2013, Page 13

SENIORS

Mesa Vista News Spring has sprung at Mesa Vista

By Kathy Germano, Mesa Vista Assisted Living Residence activity director

Spring is in the air and Mesa Vista residents had their first outing to Corn Lake in Grand Junction. We fed the hungry geese and ducks and had a wonderful time.

Mesa Vista is again hosting a the toenail clinic in every even month: April, June, August, etc.

There will be a registered nurse available for diabetic patients. Please call 285-1844 to schedule your appointment. This is a free service sponsored by Columbine Health. Donations are welcome.

We are very excited about the new medical clinic being constructed in Battlement Mesa and the residents enjoyed the groundbreaking ceremony.

The residents are also very excited that there will be a new park practically outside their front door.

We will be celebrating Saint Patrick’s Day with a party on March 15 at 7 p.m. Snacks, beverages and karaoke are planned.

We are starting a new program called “Paying it Forward for Seniors.” We invite the community to join our senior residents for lunch Monday, Wednesday, Thursday or Friday at 12:30 p.m. The cost is $5 and reservations should be made a day ahead by calling 285-1844. We look forward to the community sharing lunch and time with our residents.

Celebrating the only birthday in March is Georgianna Hathaway on March 8. Happy Birthday Georgianna.

Carolyn at Corn Lake.

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

**

Photo courtesy of Kathy Germano

Page 14, GRAND VALLEY ECHO • Mid-March/Mid-April 2013

Living

Tips and Hints

Calendar

continued from page 4

Household How-to Hints

• 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.

Light your grill with spaghetti

• Every Thursday at 7 p.m. Celebrate recovery from alcohol & drug addiction downstairs at the Crown Peak Baptist Church, 101 W. Battlement Pkwy, Parachute. All denominations welcome. Call 285-0217.

By Barbara Barker

• 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.

• To clean pull cords on Venetian blinds, put an old sock on your hand, dip it in a combo of dish soap and water and rub up and down on the cords against your other hand covered with a towel to catch the drips. Rinse the cords with another old sock dipped in clean water. If the cords are really dirty, use a scrub brush and soapy water.

• Old cell phones can be donated to a good cause at cellphonesforsoldiers.com. Old or broken phones are sold to a recycling company; the profits buy phone cards for soldiers overseas.

• When drying clothes, throw a microfiber cloth in the dryer. This works much better than dryer sheets.

• To keep the shower curtain liner from billowing in and clinging to you while you shower, either safety pin or sew fishing weights or heavy metal washers every six to 12 inches at the bottom of the liner.

• Years of grime and dirty hands can create a sticky surface. Use a microfiber cloth and some apple cider vinegar to remove the gunk. Pour a little vinegar on the cloth and rub back and forth with the wood grain. Do one small section at a time, then wipe with a clean water-dampened cloth and buff dry. If this does not work, use a wood cleaner, not a furniture polish that can leave a waxy buildup.

• Clean leather couches that are cracking with a drop of gentle liquid fabric soap in a cup of water, using a damp microfiber cloth, or use a leather cleaner. Dry with a clean towel. Recondition yearly with a good commercial product. Oil does not help and saddle soap is a leather cleaner, not a conditioner.

• To clean lace curtains that have become discolored from water in rusty pipes, soak them in full-strength white vinegar overnight. Wash with detergent, rinse in cold water and air dry. Last ditch idea: Tint them beige using tea bags.

• Recycle wrapping paper tubes by covering them with acid-free tissue paper and roll your clean linens around them to prevent the fabric from creasing when stored.

• Toasting nuts before using them in baking recipes intensifies their flavor. Also, toasted nuts are not as likely to end up on the bottom of the baked goods.

• Stop chasing the pie dough around the counter while rolling it out. Wipe the countertop with a damp sponge, and then place waxed paper on the damp surface.

• Vinegar keeps frost from forming on your car. Wipe or spray the outside of the car windows with a solution of three parts white vinegar to one part water. This treatment will last for several weeks.

• To condition tools and keep rust from invading, rub them down with hair conditioner when you clean them.

• Going on vacation? Do not announce your plans on Facebook. Newspapers piled up on the driveway are a sign no one is at home. Also, have someone check your door for flyers and announcements. Have someone make tracks in the snow and shovel the driveway in winter.

• Use a piece of spaghetti to light the grill or the hard to reach wick of a candle in a vase.

• If you have a wireless mouse, use it on a light-colored surface to prolong the life of the batteries. Using the mouse on dark, dull, or rough surfaces forces the tracking sensor to work harder, thus depleting its battery power.

She’s back by popular demand. After a break, Barbara Barker of Battlement Mesa is writing her column for the Echo again. Enjoy.

• 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 • April 9: 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.

• April 15: 11 a.m.-1 p.m. The Parachute Branch Library is hosting the St. Mary Bloodmobile for a special blood drive.One donation can help as many as four people, and the St. Mary's Regional Blood Center supplies blood to all hospitals on the Western Slope. It's safe, fast, and the easiest way to save a life.

Donors must be 16 and older, and donors ages 16 and 17 must present a photo ID. For more info. 2859870 or visit gcpld.org.

• April 20: 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.

• May 2: 5:30-8:30 p.m. The Energy Advisory Board meeting; 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.

GRAND VALLEY ECHO • Mid-March/Mid-April 2013, Page 15

Echo health briefs Second annual Health and Wellness Expo scheduled for April 27 in Glenwood Springs The second annual Health & Wellness Expo, a nonprofit community event, is being held at the Ramada Inn in Glenwood Springs on April 27 from 10 a.m.-4 p.m.

Stephanie Stanfield has been appointed the event’s cochairperson. She has facilitated and chaired a wide variety of events throughout the valley and state, including health fairs, competitions, workshops and seminars. Stanfield offers energy therapies, angel card readings and much more through her company, Live Your Present Moment.

You can learn more about energy modalities, prevention and stress management during the expo.

You may reach Stephanie Stanfield via e-mail at drsteph5@gmail.com. For more information about the Health & Wellness Expo, visit healthandwellnessexpogws.com.

Call for vendors for Health & Wellness Expo Vendor and sponsorship applications are currently being accepted for the second annual Health & Wellness Expo in Glenwood Springs.

The event will be held from 10 a.m.- 4 p.m. on April 27 at the Ramada Inn and Suites.

The Health & Wellness Expo is produced locally to provide information and education about integrative health and preventative wellness solutions that are available throughout the valley. The event will feature more than 30 educational vendor booths, informative speakers and interactive activities for all ages.

For more information about this event or to obtain a booth vendor application, visit healthandwellnessexpogws.com or call Dr. Stephanie Stanfield at 379-4193.

– Kimberly Henrie, KingHenrie Health and Fitness

Grand River Health Women’s Health Team welcomes Dr. Mary J. Glode Dr. Mary J. Glode, FACOG recently joined Grand River’s expanding Women’s Health team in Rifle.

Dr. Glode received her medical degree in 1997 from Creighton University School of Medicine in Omaha, Neb. She later completed her OB/GYN residency at the University Of Missouri-Kansas City.

In 2001, Dr. Glode began her practice with Women’s Health Associates in Glenwood Springs, where she offered a full scope of OB/GYN services.

When asked why she has chosen to practice at Grand River Health in Rifle Dr. Glode says, “I decided to focus my practice on GYN only,” she said. “I wanted to stay local and continue the relationships I have built over the years with my patients and colleagues.

“Grand River is doing some amazing things,” she continued. “They are constantly investing in cutting-edge technology and they are dedicated to expanding their services to meet the needs of the community. Grand River is a top-notch facility. The focus on quality and personal care is exactly what I was looking for. Taking care of each patient, as a person first, with a hometown feel is exactly what I want for my patients and for myself.”

Dr. Glode currently lives in Glenwood Springs with her husband, Dr. Kelly Glenn, and their two dogs, a St. Bernard named Hank and mastiff named Lila. In her free time, she enjoys hiking, traveling and reading.

Dr. Glode began seeing patients at Grand River Hospital and Medical Center on March 11 and she will offer fullscope gynecology including surgical and hormonal services. To make an appointment, please call 625-1100. For more information, please visit grandhriverhealth.org.

– Annick Pruett, Grand River Hospital Districtt

March is National Nutrition Month: "Eat Right, Your Way, Every Day”

By Ann Galloway, NP-C, Grand River Student Health Center

March is National Nutrition Month® (NNM), which the Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics created to focus attention on the importance of healthy food choices and good eating habits by providing nutrition education and information. The 2013 NNM theme is "Eat Right, Your Way, Every Day.” This theme reflects the influence of culture, ethnicity, personal preference and lifestyle on a person's nutrition, and encourages each individual to develop a personalized nutritional plan that reflects these influences.

Below is a short quiz developed by the Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics for NMM: True or False: Snacking may keep you from becoming very hungry and overeating at mealtime.

True. Eating healthy snacks such as fat-free yogurt, fresh fruit, or whole grain crackers and low-fat cheese in small portions can provide your body with enough fuel to prevent hunger and make it less likely to overeat at meals.

True or False: A healthy eating plan includes only low-fat foods.

False. The goal should be to eat food low in solid fats such as saturated fats, trans fat and cholesterol. Use oils instead of solid fats when preparing foods.

True or False: Vegetarian diets are healthful.

True. Most people, including children, can healthfully follow a vegetarian diet with good planning. A wellplanned vegetarian diet includes fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and fat-free or low-fat dairy or dairy alternatives. It is low in saturated fats, trans fat and cholesterol, salt and added sugars. Protein sources depend on the type of vegetarian diet and may include eggs, milk, cheese, yogurt, soy-based products, rice, beans and nuts.

True or False: Eating too many carbohydrates will cause weight gain.

False. Eating too many calories will cause weight gain whether the calories come from carbohydrates, fats or proteins. At least half of the grains you eat should be whole such as whole grain breads, cereal, rice and pasta. Inactivity adds to the risk for weight gain. Adults need at least 30 minutes of physical activity most days of the week. Children and adolescents need at least 60 minutes of physical activity daily.

True or False: Fad diets work.

True. It is true that many people lose pounds quickly on fad diets but over the long term, it is difficult to maintain that loss. Fad dieters often return to poor eating habits and regain the weight they lost. Many fad diets require you give up foods or entire food groups that are needed for good health. The best way to reach and maintain a healthy weight is to develop a healthy eating plan you can follow for life and get regular physical activity.

True or False: Eating sugar causes diabetes.

False. If you don't have diabetes, eating sugar won't cause you to get diabetes. Foods high in sugar are high in calories and eating too much of high calorie foods can lead to weight gain. Being obese and inactive increases the risk of developing diabetes.

True or False: A person's daily salt intake should be limited to about 1 teaspoon.

True. According to the 2005 dietary guidelines for Americans, daily sodium intake for most people should be 2,300 milligrams or less. That is the approximate amount of sodium in a teaspoon of salt. Limiting sodium may reduce the risk of high blood pressure. Most sodium comes from processed foods so reading the nutrition facts on food labels is very important to see how much sodium is in each serving of food.

True or False: Frozen or canned fruits or vegetables are not as nutritious as fresh.

False. There is little nutritional difference between fresh and frozen or canned fruits or vegetables. In fact, canned or frozen produce is generally processed at its peak, so it may contain more nutrients than fresh produce. However, many frozen or canned produce have added sugar or salt so carefully read the food labels before purchasing these items.

True or False: A person will gain about 10 pounds a year by eating an extra 100 calories a day.

True. Adding a 100 calories per day adds up to about a pound of weight gain per month. But the reverse is also true: you can lose 10 pounds a year by cutting 100 calories per day and increasing your physical activity to 30 minutes per day.

Do you have healthy eating habits? Do you: Consider nutrition when making food choices?

Avoid skipping meals?

Include three or more whole grain foods daily?

Eat at least two cups of fruits and two cups of vegetables daily?

Vary vegetables with dark green and orange varieties?

Include three cups of low-fat or fat-free milk, yogurt or cheese daily?

Choose lean meats and poultry?

Vary protein with more fish, beans and nuts?

Try to limit saturated fat and trans fat?

If you answered yes to the majority of these questions, congratulations: You are a healthy eater.

Ann Galloway is a certified nurse practitioner who works at the Grand River Student Health Center in Parachute.

Page 16, GRAND VALLEY ECHO • Mid-March/Mid-April 2013

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

Of course…taxes As I looked up over my stacks of paper, I realized that I needed to get my column done for this month. As I always tell everyone, do what you do best, so here is my column about taxes.

Every royalty owner in the state of Colorado receives a special form that just arrived from the operator of the wells. It is a form that looks similar to a W-2, but it is specific for filing a severance tax return in Colorado. For those folks who get royalties, three returns should be filed: Federal, Colorado and Severance.

Last year, the state of Colorado legislature passed bill HB 121314 that exempts those people who have had less than $250 severance tax withheld and their tax liability is less than $250.

This means that you could choose to not file the severance tax return if you had less than $250 withheld and you do not owe any more severance tax. This also means that the state of Colorado gets to keep your money if you do not file to get your refund.

Just a little bit about where the severance tax dollars go. The money received from severance tax does not go into the general fund to be used in any way that the state sees fit. Severance tax dollars have special assignments and one of them is for the purpose of grants to local communities, particularly ones that have oil and gas impacts. Did you know that some of the parking lot of the Grand Valley Recreation Center was funded with severance tax dollars? Local governments, schools and communities can apply for the grants if they have projects that will benefit the region.

Well, back to work….the deadline approaches.

Mary Ellen Denomy, CPA, is a Battlement Mesa resident and an Accredited Petroleum Accountant She has been nationally recognized as an expert in oil and gas issues. Mary Ellen is the immediate past president of the Rocky Mountain Chapter of the National Association of Royalty Owners. If you have questions, contact her at the naro-us.org website or through The Grand Valley Echo.

Echo BLM Briefs BLM extends Grand Junction Resource Management Plan comment period The Bureau of Land Management (BLM) has extended the public comment period on its Grand Junction Resource Management Plan (RMP) until June 24. When finalized, the plan will provide a framework for subsequent management decisions for the next several decades on more than a million surface acres and 1.2 million acres of subsurface mineral estate in Mesa and Garfield counties, with small amounts in Montrose and Rio Blanco counties. BLM released the draft plan for public review on Jan. 14.

BLM is extending the public comment period on the draft an additional 60 days in response to requests from the Mesa County Commission and others.

BLM has scheduled the additional community meeting April 6 at 4 p.m. at the Two Rivers Convention Center, 159 Main St. in Grand Junction. Written comments will be accepted at the meeting.

More than 500 people attended the five public open houses BLM held in January and February to kick off the public review and comment period of the draft.

Following the close of the public comment period, BLM will use the comments to help develop the proposed RMP and travel management plan, which are currently expected to be completed in winter of 2014.

For additional information including how to provide comments or to view a copy of the draft RMP, visit blm.gov/co/st/en/fo/gjfo/rmp/rmp.html.

As with other submitted public comments, your entire comment, including your personal identifying information, may be made publicly available. While you can ask in your comments to withhold your personal identifying information from public review, there is no guarantee that BLM will be able to do so.

BLM requests public comment by March 30 for new management plan for Roan Plateau The Bureau of Land Management (BLM) is conducting additional environmental analysis for the Roan Plateau planning area in northwestern Colorado. The new planning effort and supporting environmental analysis will address deficiencies in the BLM’s earlier environmental analysis and Resource Management Plan Amendment identified by the U.S. District Court for the District of Colorado.

The announcement initiated a public scoping period, which is an opportunity for the public to identify issues and review planning criteria. For more information about the supplemental enivironmental impact statement and how to provide scoping comments, visit on.doi.gov/wyiqos.

The BLM held two scoping meetings to help answer questions and take written comments.

Scoping comments need to be received by March 30 and may be sent to: roanplateau@blm.gov, via fax at 876-9090 or can be mailed to BLM, Colorado River Valley Field Office, Roan Plateau Comments, 2300 River Frontage Road, Silt, CO 81652.

Be aware that your entire comment, including your personal identifying information, may be made publicly available. While you can ask in your comments to withhold your personal identifying information from public review, there is no guarantee that BLM will be able to do so.

Following the scoping period, BLM will develop a new management plan and a SEIS that will analyze a full range of alternatives for extracting the natural gas resources associated with the plateau, including the so-called “community alternative” and a no-action alternative, and consider the cumulative effects on air quality of oil and gas drilling in the surrounding region. When a draft of these alternatives is complete, it will be released for public review and comment.

BLM Grand Junction accepting comments on special recreation permits The Bureau of Land Management (BLM) Grand Junction Field Office is accepting public comment on 32 Special Recreation Permit (SRP) renewal applications.

The BLM requires SRPs for commercial activities, as well as for competitive and organized group events on BLM public lands. SRP applications are available for review at the Grand Junction BLM office.

The BLM uses a permit system for managing economic aspects of recreation, and to ensure sustainable and diverse recreational opportunities for all visitors. Supporting local economies and providing quality recreation experiences for the public by making public lands available for these activities is integral to BLM’s management objectives. Not only does the BLM collect “fair value” on behalf of the public when any of these types of activities take place on public lands, but the BLM also manages commercial recreation to protect the natural resources that make recreation on public lands desirable.

To find out whether a particular activity on public lands requires an SRP or to provide comments on these renewals, contact Carrie Surber, 2815 H Road, Grand Junction, CO 81506, or csurber@blm.gov. Comments must be received by March 20.

Be aware that your entire comment, including your personal identifying information, may be made publicly available. While you can ask in your comments to withhold your personal identifying information from public review, there is no guarantee that BLM will be able to do so.

– David Boyd, Bureau of Land Management

GRAND VALLEY ECHO • Mid-March/Mid-April 2013, Page 17

FA I T H

As I See It

• The Echo Worship Directory •

Put on your best yes face

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

Grace Bible Church

Meditation and Spiritual Growth 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!

Bible Study: 7 p.m.

We must never underestimate just how vital the “yes faces” in our community are. What is a yes face?

Perhaps the best way to describe it is to point one out.

Chuck Swindoll tells the story of a group of people who were travelling with Thomas Jefferson during his presidency; these travelers were about to cross a swiftly moving river with waters that had peaked due to a recent downpour. One lone and fearful traveler who came upon the group watched as one man after another crossed on horseback with great caution but also with a looks of fear because of the danger of the swiftly moving current.

Then the lone traveler asked Jefferson if he would take him across, to which he readily agreed. The man climbed behind the president on his horse and the two began the crossing together. When they made it safely to the other side of the river, somebody asked the lone traveler, “Why did you ask the president for this favor?” The man was shocked when he discovered whom he had just asked to help him. He then replied, “All I know is that some of your faces had ‘No’ written on them and on some the answer was ‘Yes.’ His was a yes face.”

Yes faces can take on many forms and lots are needed to counter all of the no faces we encounter along our life’s journeys. “No, I don’t want you around;” “No, you can’t do that.

And I dare you to even try;” “No, your kind aren’t welcome here;” “No, it can’t be done;” “No, I don’t think you’re good enough;” “No, not if I have anything to say about it.”

But then, it’s like an oasis in the desert when the yes face comes around. “Yes, certainly, I want you here with us;” “Yes, it is so good to see you;” “Yes, you can join us and be a part of our team;” “Yes, you are welcome anytime;” “Yes, it can be done;” “Yes, you can do that. We have faith in you.”

Certainly we all know that it is appropriate to say no as well as yes depending on the circumstances, but we all have to say that there are definitely yes faces who have made a significant impact on our lives. Their love, encouragement, truth, support and courage is read on their facial expressions as well as displayed by their actions and words toward us. Their eyes seem to be brighter, their smiles cheerier, their countenances more welcoming. Even when they may have to say no, they continue to have a yes face.

Who are the yes faces making such an impact in the Parachute and Battlement Mesa area? The parents, teachers, coaches, administrators and staff at the school along with community members who show up for games, meets, matches, science fairs, concerts, plays, talent shows, etc. and display their enthusiasm with excitement and encouragement. They are the Kiwanis, Scouts, 4-H, and other community volunteers who are there to increase the joy and the opportunities for each of the youth.

The yes faces are those in our community who not only support local events but also local businesses. The economy has had its effect on local businesses. The yes faces say to local establishments, “Yes, we are glad you here.” “We hope you can weather the present storm.” “You are vital to our community.”

Proverbs 27:10 says, “Better is a neighbor who is near than a brother far away.” Yes faces in a community are those who have learned that they can add to their extended families by being there for each other, during times of joy as well as hardship.

You can also find several yes faces in our churches. Over the past weeks our community has grieved the deaths of several individuals who have made a major impact on our lives. Those who died happened to be yes faces but there were many yes faces who surrounded the grieving families with love and support. Even in the midst of grief, their faces say, “Yes, you can and will get through this.” A resurrected Savior has a yes face.

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.

•••

Crown Peak Baptist Church 101 W. Battlement Parkway Parachute 285-7946 crownpeakbaptist.com Rick Van Vleet, Senior Pastor Dan LaRue, Associate Pastor Mike Metcalf, Associate Pastor Tim Hughes, 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

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

•••

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.

•••

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-March/Mid-April 2013

Where’s 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.

Sleigh Rides Winter Trail Rides Book your winter adventure by calling 963-1144 or (229) 221-4590

Mount Sopris looms in the background scenic drive up the Crystal Valley Photo by Alyssa Ohmacht on your way to Redstone.

Come to Redstone for Easter

By Carrie Click, Echo editor

Spring comes to Parachute and Battlement Mesa a bit earlier than it does in Redstone, but spring does come to the Crystal River Valley during late March and April.

This has been a fairly mild winter, though Redstone and the Crystal River Valley still have a layer of snow covering the ground. It’s a perfect time to make a wonderful escape so close to home.

Easter is celebrated in the Crystal Valley on March 31 at the area’s two churches and with a memorable sunrise service on top of McClure Pass high above the valley.

The historic Redstone Inn is offering its Easter Sunday Brunch and spring lodging specials abound at the inn and at area lodges.

And spring provides visitors to take full advantage of the inn’s amenities, which include a full restaurant and bar, carriage rides, and tours of the Redstone Castle on the weekends.

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 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!

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

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REDSTONE CASTLE TOURS

For more information and and upcoming events visit:

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)

redstonecolorado.com

Tickets available at Tiffany of Redstone, and the Redstone General Store CASH OR CHECK ONLY

www.redstonecastle.us

GRAND VALLEY ECHO • Mid-March/Mid-April 2013, 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 and dryer, AC, balcony with storage closet. 1 car garage with 6x8 separate room and closet for storage and a storage closet outside. $1,050/mo. rent, security negotiable, NS, pets considered, Rec Center dues included. Call 704-0373.

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 28512-3 pd 9330.

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. tfn We accept all credit cards. Call Dick at 250-5154

FOR SALE: FOR SALE: Exercise bike for sale - $25. Good condition.

Call Barbara, 970-285-7634.

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

Charles “Chick” Dassance, Ph.D. named interim president of Colorado Mountain College In his first two weeks as interim president of Colorado Mountain College (CMC), Charles “Chick” Dassance, Ph.D. has hit the ground at a gallop.

He is learning quickly about the college, its students and employees, and the communities it serves. He’s been meeting with as many people as he can, reading reports and budgets and documents of every stripe.

As a former president of two community colleges, Dassance knows something about bringing stability to institutions while continuing to pursue innovation. In 1996 he was hired as president of what was then known as Central Florida Community College, in Ocala, Fla. During the next 15 years, he led the college’s transformation into prominence and record enrollment.

Among the initiatives he oversaw there was the introduction of bachelor’s degrees, something CMC introduced last year. After Dassance retired in 2011 from the renamed College of Central Florida, he was honored with the title of president emeritus.

Dassance is overseeing the 11-location community college in north-central Colorado while CMC’s elected board of trustees seeks and appoints a president for the permanent position.

“The board of trustees clearly wants CMC to be a college that will be a source of pride for the citizens of our service area, and I look forward to working with the board on finding the right leader for the college’s future,” Dassance said.

Charles “Chick” Dassance, Ph.D. is the new interim president for Colorado Mountain College. He is overseeing operations at all of the college’s 11 learning locations in north-central Colorado.

Photo courtesy of CMC

– Debbie Crawford, Colorado Mountain College

THE GRAND VALLEY ECHO CLASSIFIED ADS Only $10 for up to 40 words!

(25¢/word after that).

Classified ads MUST be prepaid.

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

SERVICE DIRECTORY • 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-March/Mid-April 2013