• 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 3
INSIDE
Mid-December 2012 / Mid-January 2013
Santa and snow ... plus new babies and a new year come to Parachute and Battlement Mesa
Raptor flight cage page 3
Our Schools pages 10 & 11 Samuel Allen spends some time with Santa at the Battlement Mesa Activity Center (soon to be called the Grand Valley Recreation Center), and snow finally comes to the Grand Valley. Merry Christmas and Happy New Year. Photo courtesy of Anne Huber
Meals on Heels page 12
Mesa Vista News page 13
Page 2, GRAND VALLEY ECHO • Mid-December 2012/Mid-January 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.
Grand Valley Gratitude Dear Echo: Thank you to all of the families who participated in the Shepherd of the Mesa Boys and Girls Basketball League. We had around 60 kids learning basic basketball skills and having fun. A big thank you to all the coaches and helpers who shared their abilities and talents with the kids. There were nearly 40 coaches and helpers participating. We have so many talented people in our community, looking for ways to help our youth.Thank you to Anne Huber and all the staff at the Battlement Mesa Activity Center. They all are so helpful and willing to go the extra mile to serve people. It was a pleasure to see the community involvement for the benefit of kids and families. Thank you. Pastor Bill Cornelius Battlement Mesa
This golden eagle is trying out the new flight cage at the Western Colorado Wildlife Rehabilitation Center near Silt. It will complete its rehabilitation before being released back in the wild. Photo courtesy of Eugene Pickett
New large raptor flight cage now at wildlife center By Eugene Pickett, Echo contributor A new large raptor flight cage has been constructed at the Western Colorado Wildlife Rehabilitation Center near Silt. This wildlife center has been rehabilitating wildlife from hummingbirds to elk and from mountain lions to bears for more than 25 years. The construction of this building is one of the many projects the volunteers of Colorado Parks and Wildlife (CPW) do each year. The building is made of metal and is more than 100-feet long by 40-feet wide with one end open to the outside. There are approximately 1,200 slats installed at the open end to provide an outside view for the raptors. The CPW volunteers are part of a western Colorado volunteer program, which is managed from the CPW regional office in Grand Junction. The volunteers in the Parachute and Rifle area provide support to three different volunteer projects. The main team is the Wildlife Rescue Team who are trained to pick up injured and orphaned wildlife and transport them
either to the veterinarian service at the Arrowhead Clinic in Fruita or to the rehabilitation center. The second team is made up of what is known as the Bear Aware team. They are trained to speak to the public and educate them about human activities that attract bears. This team is called to go into problem bear areas and talk to residents about possible problems and safety precautions regarding bears. The third volunteer team manages the Grand Valley Bluebird Project in the Parachute and Battlement Mesa areas. This team currently monitors 115 bluebird nesting boxes each year. They have also provided another 50 to 60 nesting boxes in the rural areas of Rifle, and Wallace and Parachute creeks. Approximately 180 mountain bluebirds a year have been fledged from these boxes. This building is a result of the generous donations of supporters of the wildlife center and grant money that the center’s staff has been able to obtain. Neither the federal or state governments provide any funding to the center and its operations.
Thank you to this month’s contributors: All copy submitted to The Grand Valley Echo will be edited and reviewed by our staff for style, grammar and content. The Grand Valley Echo reserves the right to refuse publication of any submitted material that does not meet the publisher’s standard for a positive, informative, educational community newspaper.
MISSION STATEMENT To provide a voice for local schools, nonprofit groups and civic organizations; to bring attention to the individuals and local businesses that are the fabric of the Grand Valley region; to contribute to the vitality of our small town life.
PUBLISHER/DESIGNER ALYSSA OHNMACHT EDITOR CARRIE CLICK ASSISTANT COPY EDITOR JAE JULGRAN ADVERTISING SALES BARBARA PAVLIN
285-7634 The Grand Valley Echo is published monthly, and is distributed throughout Battlement Mesa and Parachute. Subscriptions are available for a $35 annual fee.
DISTRIBUTION/CIRCULATION STEVE PAVLIN Dawn Distribution • 963-0874
274 REDSTONE BLVD., REDSTONE, COLORADO 81623 970-963-2373 • gve@crystalvalleyecho.com
Desiree Smith, Anne Huber, Eugene Pickett, Renelle Lott, Bob Campbell, Rifle Funeral Home, Mary Anderson, LIFT-UP, Rebecca Ruland, Jeanne Miles, Grand Valley Center for Family Learning, Tanner Zimmerman, Sierra Berger, Shannia Burns, Ivan Arizaga, Jordan Scott, Kelsey Been, Annick Pruett, Battlement Mesa Metro District, Kathy Germano, Betsy Leonard, Ann Galloway, Karen Martsolf, Dr. Carol Lybrook, Parachute Branch Library, Charlie Hornick, Sue McEvoy, Tanny McGinnis
GRAND VALLEY ECHO • Mid-December 2012/Mid-January 2013, Page 3
G R A N D
VA L L E Y I T E S
National 4-H Congress a “life-changing experience” for Desiree Smith By Desiree Smith, Garfield County 4-H Council president
Editor’s note: Desiree Smith, the Garfield County 4-H Council president, attends Grand Valley High School. She recently was selected to participate in the National 4-H Council in Atlanta, Ga. Here she writes about her experience at the conference.
Left, Grand Valley High School student Desiree Smith is the Garfield County 4-H Council president. Right, Desiree, far left in back, with Garfield Photos courtesy of the Smith family County 4-H Council members.
Over Thanksgiving break, I was honored to attend the National 4-H Congress in Atlanta, Ga., a leadership conference for young adults who are selected by their states to attend. These 4-Hers gather together to learn how to better themselves, their 4-H programs, and their communities. Only nine delegates from Colorado were selected to attend this event, and I was proud to represent Parachute and Garfield County. I’m beginning my seventh year in 4-H and have participated in several projects including Cake Decorating, Child Development, Scrapbooking, and Rabbits. I have held several leadership positions in my club, The Morrisania Mesa Sodbusters, as well as in the Garfield County 4-H Council of which I am currently president. At National 4-H Congress, I was given the opportunity to learn from several different speakers on how to “Become a Catalyst of Change” – the conference’s theme – in my community. In Atlanta, I participated in community service projects and got to tour the CNN headquarters building. I met several people from around the country including Alaska, Hawaii and Puerto Rico. I was also honored to represent our state as our state flag bearer during the flag ceremony. I learned new leadership skills that will help me when leading my county this year as the Garfield County 4-H Council president. It was not only my experience that allowed me to participate in this opportunity, but people who have supported me throughout my 4-H career. I would like to thank the Colorado State 4-H Foundation, the Garfield County 4-H Foundation, the Garfield County 4-H Council, and members of our own community for providing the monetary support that allowed me to participate in this life-changing experience.
Haydon Metcalf selected as 2012 National American Miss Junior Teen
Left, Haydon Metcalf reacts to the announcement she is the new National American Miss Junior Teen in Anaheim, Calif., and right, following the pageant.
Photo courtesy of the Metcalf family
By Carrie Click, Echo editor
Haydon Metcalf has won a number of titles since she began competing in pageants at age 12. Now 16, she is a Parachute native. Haydon was born at Valley View Hospital in Glenwood, but has lived in Parachute “since the day after I was born,” she said. This past Thanksgiving, Haydon ventured from her hometown when she added yet another title to her list when she traveled to Anaheim, Calif. to compete for the National American Miss Junior Teen crown. She won the entire pageant, competing with girls from all over the country. “She is the first girl from Colorado to win a National Queen title,” said Lori Metcalf, Haydon’s mom. Haydon’s parents Jason and Lori Metcalf own and operate Metcalf Excavation. However, even though this is the second national title Haydon has won – she also won the title of National Cover Miss in 2008 – the titles most meaningful to the Grand Valley High School junior are the ones she’s earned for her personality. “Winning Miss Personality is awesome because it reflects who I am as a person,” said Haydon. “Winning Miss Colorado and winning the national title has changed my life forever, but winning Miss Personality and being a first runner-up nine times feels pretty good because that is voted on by my fellow competitors.” Haydon said she enjoys participating and believes they have helped her confidence, and have made her more comfortable being in front of both large and small groups of people. “I love being on stage,” she said. “I used to be more comfortable in front of 100 people than 10, but now I do fine in interviews [with small numbers of people]. I’ve gotten rid of my jitters. I just go in and I’m myself. I was recently selected to be my school’s spirit chair, and now I can get up in front of the entire school.” Haydon said despite the sometimes negative perceptions that people may have towards pageants because of incidents like the Jon Benet Ramsey tragedy and reality TV shows about young girls participating in pageants, she always has had positive experiences. “In the pageants I participate in, girls 12 years old and younger are not allowed to wear make-up – not even tinted lip gloss,” she said. “It’s really more about natural inner beauty.”
Page 4, GRAND VALLEY ECHO • Mid-December 2012/Mid-January 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.
• Dec. 17: 2 p.m. Join us for “A Very Funny Christmas” at the Parachute Branch Library, featuring Will Ferrell in the holiday classic, “ELF. ”Holiday cupcakes will be served. 285-9870. • Dec. 18: 7 a.m. The Kiwanis Club of Grand Valley/Parachute meets in the Community Room of the Parachute Branch Library, 244 Grand Valley Way, in Parachute. Coffee is at 7 a.m., program begins at 7:30 a.m. • Dec. 18 : 12 p.m. Ladies Who Do Lunch Bunch meet at the Parachute Branch Library “The Christmas Pearl” by Dorothea Benton Frank. Enjoy a potluck lunch. 285-9870. • Dec. 19 : The Valley Senior Center extends an invitation to all area seniors 60 and older to attend our holiday lunch, featuring generous portions of traditional holiday fare. Reservations are required. Please call 285-7216 between 9 a.m and noon Dec. 17 to reserve your spot. The cost is $2.50 per person. The center is located at 540 N. Parachute Avenue . • Dec. 21: Take & Make it at the Parachute Branch Library. Need something to keep the kids busy before the big day? Need a last minute fun gift that kids can craft? Stop by the library anytime on Dec. 21, and grab one of our to-go craft kits. Kits are limited. 285-9870. • Dec. 21: 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. • Dec. 24: All six branches of the Garfield County Public Library District will be closed on Dec. 24 and Dec. 25. Normal library hours will resume on Dec. 26. • Dec. 25: Merry Christmas. • Dec. 26: 3 p.m. Anime Club. Meet at the Parachute Branch Library to talk about your favorites, get recommendations, and practice your drawing skills. 285-9870. • Dec. 31: All six branches of the Garfield County Public Library District will close at 5 p.m. on and will remain closed Jan. 1 in celebration of the new year.. Normal library hours will resume Jan. 2. • Jan. 1: Happy New Year. • Jan. 1: The Battlement Mesa Activity Center officially becomes the Grand Valley Recreation Center. • Jan. 8: 7 a.m. The Kiwanis Club of Grand Valley/Parachute meets at the Community Room of the Parachute Branch Library, 244 Grand Valley Way, in Parachute. Coffee is at 7 a.m., program begins at 7:30 a.m. • Jan. 8: 9:30 a.m. The Parachute Branch Library will hold Health And Fitness 101 featuring professional presentations about living a healthy lifestyle. Lunch will be served. Call 285-9870 to reserve your spot by Jan. 4. • Jan. 8: 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. • Jan. 8: 3:30-5 p.m. The Battlement Mesa Service Association’s Oil and Gas Committee meets at the Battlement Mesa Activity Center (now the Grand Valley Recreation Center). The public is welcome. 285-9432.
• Jan. 14: 3 p.m. The Good the Bad and the Gross at the Parachute Library. Designed for 4-6 graders, this is a hands-on learning experience, challenging youngsters to be ready for the good, the bad, and, yes, the really gross. 285-9870. • Jan. 15: 2 p.m. Parachute Branch Library’s Annual Meeting, “Happy Feet.” Join the Friends of the Library and their invited guest, Dr. Gerhard Rill, to learn how to have healthy and happy feet. Dr. Rill is a graduate of the Munich School of Orthopedics. 285-9870.
ONGOING • The Parachute Branch Library hosts Story Times, including Toddler Story Time, Ready to Read Story Time and Bilingual Story Time on a regular basis each week. Lots of other reading clubs and events for all ages meet at the library as well. 285-9870. • The Battlement Mesa Activity Center (now the Grand Valley Recreation Center) has a variety of exercise classes for preschoolers to seniors. Call Anne, 285-9480. • Come to Redstone and take a guided holiday tour of the historic Redstone Castle Saturdays and Sundays at 1:30 p.m. Tickets available at Redstone General Store and Tiffany of Redstone. $15 for adults and $10 for seniors / children, free for kids under 5 yrs. More info 963-9656 or redstonecastle.us. • Every Monday from 12:45-4 p.m., Party Bridge is held at the Battlement Mesa Activity Center. All levels welcome. • Every Monday from 12-1 p.m. the Grand Valley United Methodist Church serves a free soup lunch at the church at 132 Parachute Ave. • The fourth Monday of every month, the Grand Valley Sew and Sew Quilters meet at 9:30 a.m. at the Battlement Mesa Schoolhouse. Call Roxie Jones at 285-9791 and Patsy Noel at 285-2472 for more info. • The last Monday of the month, an Alzheimer’s caregiver support group meets from 10-11 a.m. at the Grand Valley United Methodist Church, 132 N. Parachute Ave., 800-272-3900, 987-3184. • The first Tuesday of every month at 6:30 p.m., the Grand Valley Citizens Alliance meets at the Rifle Branch Library community room. Leslie, 6180890. • 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 (now the Grand Valley Recreation Center). • Neighborhood Watch meets the second Tuesday of the month at 7 p.m. at Parachute Town Hall, 222 Grand Valley Way, Parachute. 2857630. • 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.
•• TOO MUCH NEWS TOO FEW ADS •• The amount of advertising and sponsorships sold determines the size of the paper. We’ve had to cut many valuable, informative stories because the page count of the Echo is so small. Advertise your business or consider sponsoring the Echo if you find value in receiving this newspaper every month. • ADVERTISING SALES • BARBARA PAVLIN, 285-7634
HOMES
• The second Tuesday or Wednesday of every month at 6:30 p.m., the Parachute/Battlement Mesa Park and Recreation District board of directors meets at the recreation district office, 259 Cardinal Way, Parachute, 285-0388, parachutebattlementparkandrecreation.org. • The third Tuesday of every month at 9 a.m., the Battlement Mesa Service Association meets at the Grand Valley Recreation Center (formerly the Battlement Mesa Activity Center). • Every Wednesday at 11:30 a.m., the Parachute Valley Senior Center hosts a luncheon prepared by the Rifle Senior Center. $2.50 for those over 60. Reservations taken Mondays from 9 a.m.-12 p.m.; call 2857216. • The first and third Wednesday of every month at 3 p.m., the Battlement Mesa Architectural Committee meets at the Grand Valley Recreation Center (formerly the Battlement Mesa Activity 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 (formerly the Battlement Mesa Activity Center). to discuss issues of concern to the Battlement Mesa community. Open to the public. Dave, 285-2263 or Paul, 285-7791. • Common Ground meets the fourth Wednesday of the month at 3:30 p.m. at the Grand Valley Recreation Center (formerly the Battlement Mesa Activity Center). The group is comprised of citizens from Parachute and Battlement Mesa who are committed to working together for a better community. All residents interested in contributing their time and energy for the betterment of Battlement and Parachute are encouraged to attend. • Every Thursday at 10 a.m. (except the first Thursday of the month), the Prayer Shawl Ministry meets at the Grand Valley United Methodist Church, 132 N. Parachute, Parachute. Call Sharon, 285-2318, or the church, 285-9892, to join in. • The first Thursday of every month from 5:30-8:30 p.m., the Energy Advisory Board meets to encourage positive communication and responsible energy development at the Rifle Branch Library, 207 East Ave., Rifle. For topics, more, go to garfield-county.com/oil-gas/energy-advisoryboard.aspx, or contact Denice Brown at 625-5915. • The second Thursday of every month, One Moment meets, which is a support group for bereaved parents who have experienced pregnancy loss, stillbirth, or early infant loss. Meetings are led by Marcia Villarreal and Amanda Emerson-Burger at the Glenwood Insurance Agency, 1605 Grand Ave., Glenwood, from 6:30-8:30 p.m. 963-7110, 379-5387. • Seniors age 60 and older and disabled of any age may ride The Traveler, a wheelchair-accessible van with door-to-door service from Parachute to Glenwood Springs and to various towns and locations in between in Garfield County. Suggested donation is $8 round trip. The Traveler also travels from Parachute to Grand Junction the second Thursday of the month. Donation is $20 round trip. Call 48 hours in advance for reservations and information at 625-1366 • Every Friday from 9-9:30 a.m. “Community Connections” hosts interviews with community members on KSUN 103.9 FM.
FOR THE
HOLIDAYS!
In an effort to find some wonderful adult cats forever homes, the Colorado Animal Rescue in Glenwood Springs and the Eagle Valley Humane Society are teaming up to offer FREE adult cat adoptions for Christmas Week. (December 21st through December 29th). We both have some wonderful cats that would love a forever home for the holidays!
947-9173 www.coloradoanimalrescue.org
GRAND VALLEY ECHO • Mid-December 2012/Mid-January 2013, Page 5
G O V E R N M E N T
Garfield County adopts 2013 budget By Renelle Lott, Garfield County
Jack Blankenship, left, receives a plaque from Adam Ford for his 15 years of service in the Garfield County Sheriff’s Auxiliary. Photo courtesy of Bob Campbell
Sheriff’s Auxiliary holds Christmas party The Garfield County Sheriff’s Auxiliary held their annual Christmas party at Bodacious Bites restaurant in Battlement Mesa on Dec. 5. In addition to the regular members of the auxiliary, Sheriff Lou Vallario and two of his staff and their guests were also in attendance. The high point of the party was Adam Ford presenting Jack Blankenship with a plaque recognizing his 15 years of service in the auxiliary. Jack has retired after faithfully serving the community for these many years. Jack’s retirement has left two openings in the auxiliary. If you are interested in trying to fill Jack’s shoes, contact Bob Campbell at 2856492. One must pass a background check and have a valid driver’s license. The auxiliary is a group of volunteers who patrol Battlement Mesa daily in their police cruiser, handle VIN inspections, sell dog and cat licenses, and assist with traffic control in Garfield County as asked. They also serve the community in many other ways. – Bob Campbell, Garfield County Sheriff’s Auxiliary
Garfield County adopted its budget and appropriated $116,693,384 for the 2013 fiscal year on Dec. 10. The county’s fund balance will direct discretionary expenditures for specific infrastructure improvements to local municipalities, but it will still retain a projected balance at the end of 2013 in excess of $100 million. Projected revenues for 2013 are expected to decrease by $8.5 million in large part due to the completion of construction on the West Parachute Interchange, and associated intergovernmental grant revenues during 2012. However, 2013 property tax collections are budgeted to increase $2.3 million or four percent. Human service and other grant allocations will be similar to 2012 amounts. Sales tax is projected to increase $2 million to $8.5 million as previous refunds are complete, and investment earnings have increased $370,000 due to investment of cash in higher-interest securities. Overall expenditures have decreased $29 million from 2012. Of this, $28 million is attributed to the early payment of Certificates of Participation (COP) financing ($15.7 million) on the Garfield County Administration Building, the Road and Bridge facility on Hunter Mesa, and the Garfield County Jail and Sheriff’s office, as well as an interchange construction project ($12.3 million). Discretionary expenditures will increase in 2013 by more than $3 million, due to planned grants to local municipalities. Road & Bridge capital expenditures will increase by $2 million in 2013, as projects on county roads initiated in 2012 are completed in 2013. The operating budget has decreased by approximately $7.6 million from the 2012 amended budget, due to various trimming of expenditures countywide, and a decision to fund the Garfield County Air Show every two years, instead of annually. Capital expenditures in support of operations have decreased by over $2 million, including a savings of $647,000, from eliminating interest payments for buildings under the COP financing. The 2013 county budget maintains a total personnel expenditure matching that of 2012, despite increases in health insurance costs and a budgeted three percent performance pay increase, which the commissioners will review in March of 2013. The 2013 Garfield County proposed budget is available online at garfieldcounty.com/finance/2013-proposed-budget.aspx.
Santa comes to Battlement Mesa From left, standing, Kirsten Medina, Jordyn Pittman, Santa, Baby Adyson Pittman, Jaycee Pittman and Mrs. Claus; in front, seated, and Alexis Jenkenson and Taylor Pittman enjoy a special visit from the Clauses to the Battlement Mesa Activity Cener on Dec. 8. More than 100 children stopped by for a visit. Refreshments were served and every child received a gift. Photo courtesy of Anne Huber
Page 6, GRAND VALLEY ECHO • Mid-December 2012/Mid-January 2013
O B I T U A R I E S Clarence "Wayne" Payton Aug. 22, 1926 – Dec. 1, 2012
Clarence “Wayne” Payton of Battlement Mesa passed away on Dec. 1. He was 86. Wayne was born to Chester Arthur Payton and Mabel Catherine Rasmussen, and grew up in the Grand Junction area. He especially enjoyed his memories of Loma and Parachute Creek. Wayne served in post-World War II Germany and worked in the Colorado Fuel and Iron Steel Mill for 30 years. Upon retirement, Wayne was able to live his dream ranching at his home on the family property on Battlement Mesa. Wayne is survived by his wife of 62 years, Alberta (Gardner), son Rand (Theresa), daughter Ann (Steve) Williams and five grandchildren: Shawna (Ablajan Haytek) Katie, and Brett (Britney) Williams, and Eric (Diana) and Michael Payton. His great grandchildren are Alexandria and Isabella Payton and Conner Williams. Wayne was preceded by his brothers and sisters Dale, Warren, Dorothy, Fred and Madge Peak. Lily and Norman are still hanging in there. Wayne was an avid outdoorsman who loved hunting, fishing and river rafting. Services were held on Dec. 6 at the old Battlement Mesa Schoolhouse in Battlement Mesa. Online condolences may be made at rifleruneralhome.com.
Arthur L. Rinker
The Colorado Heritage Group
OWN A MASTERPEICE Stucco ranch borders golf course, multi use bonus room, gourmet kitchen, elegant great room and dining. Battlement Mesa - $489,000
PEACEFUL PRIVATE SETTING This custom home showcases a floor to ceiling river rock fireplace, gourmet kitchen, library and large trex deck. Battlement Mesa - $390,000
LAND:
A HOME FOR ALL LIFESTYLES View filled large redwood deck and courtyard entry. Quality built home, two fireplaces, tile flooring. Battlement Mesa - $209,900
May 16, 1936 – Dec. 4, 2012
Arthur L. Rinker, 76, of Parachute passed away Dec. 4. He was 76. Art was born in Hillsgrove, Pa. to Francis and Marie (Brey) Rinker. He married his high school sweetheart, Florence (Flo) Baumunk, on March 24, 1955 in Montoursville, Pa. They shared 56 years of marriage. Art spent eight years in the Navy, serving during the Korean War. He enjoyed outdoor activities, fishing, snowshoeing, building design, traveling with Flo, volunteer work and spending time with family and friends. After 30 years of service for GTE Government Systems as a facilities planner/architect, he retired in 1993 after which he and Flo moved to Colorado. Art was the beloved husband of Flo; treasured father to son, Lynn (Stacey) Rinker; and daughter Gay (David Ronnow) Rinker; and grandfather "pap pap" to Lauren, Hayden and Colter; he also leaves behind his brothers Donald, Maynard and Kenneth; sister Marcia; and many nieces, nephews and friends. He was preceded in death by his parents. A Celebration of Life was held on Dec. 11 in Parachute. In lieu of flowers the family suggests donations to Alpine Hospice, 1517 Blake, Suite 100B, Glenwood Springs, CO 81601; or Grand Valley United Methodist Church, 132 N. Parachute, Parachute, CO 81635. Online condolences may be made at riflefuneralhome.com
SPACIOUS LIKE NEW MF HOME Upgrades throughout with new laminate floors, kitchen cabinets, counters and appliances. Hobbyists dream garage. Battlement Mesa - $117,000
MAKE A SMART INVESTMENT Large lot in Eagles Point Subdv. Many home site possibilities. Dream now and build later. Battlement Mesa - $45,000 USE YOUR IMAGINATION Design the home of your dreams in this exclusive subdivision. Buy now and build later. Battlement Mesa - $75,000 SEVERAL CHOICE LOTS Eagles point subdivision, 1600 sq. ft. minimum, every lot has a spectacular view. Battlement Mesa - starting at $71,000
START WITH THE WORKSHOP..... Finished shop on 8.38 acres in a covenant protected rural subdv. Fantastic scenery, borders BLM. Battlement Mesa - $225,000 BEGIN HOME OWNERSHIP HERE Master bath with garden tub plus shower. Laminate wood floors. This MF home is neat as a pin, in and out. Battlement Mesa - $115,000 EXPAND YOUR LEISURE TIME Townhome with formal and informal living, upper and lower deck, two fireplaces, beautiful home. Battlement Mesa - $199,000 TIME TO ENJOY LIFE Easy living in this townhome. Center fireplace in living/dining room, breakfast nook, tile countertops. Battlement Mesa - $124,500 WHAT A GREAT DEAL THIS IS! MF home with attached two car garage, fenced yard, garden tub and shower in master bath. Battlement Mesa - $89,900
BEST BUY IN EAGLES POINT Enjoy the amenities of Battlement Mesa, live in a greatsubdivision with views and walking trails. Battlement Mesa - $39,900 WRAP UP THIS LOT FOR CHRISTMAS Upscale golf course subdivision. Lot overlooks the 17th tee. Great views of the Battlements. Battlement Mesa - $68,000 COUNT THE WAYS... You will enjoy the amazing scenery when you build your dream home here. Flat lot, easy build, great views. Battlement Mesa - $65,000 ONE OF THE LAST LOTS LEFT Monument Creek Village Subdv. an amenity filled Battlement. Site specific building plans available. Battlement Mesa - $42,900 LOOKING FOR A GET AWAY? Secluded 160 acres North of DeBeque. Unimproved acreage with 360 degree views. DeBeque - $215,000
NOT TOO BIG OR TOO SMALL Absolutely charming ranch, lots of extras, awnings, fireplace, views, covered front porch, just like new. Battlement Mesa - $158,000
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 **Not valid on Valentine’s Day
Virtual Tours www.MohrlangSwanson.com
GRAND VALLEY ECHO • Mid-December 2012/Mid-January 2013, Page 7
S P O R T S
Dear Community Members and Gas and Oil Employees; Our Mission was and continues to be that of providing excellent quality home cooked meals for our customers, especially those workers away from home. We wish you a Blessed Christmas and a Happy and Prosperous New Year. Thank you for your patronage. The Johnsons
Open 6:30 a.m. - 9 p.m. M-F • 7 a.m. - 9 p.m. Sat.-Sun. 315 E First Street • Parachute, Co. 81635 970-285-1917 • catering 970-285-7091
&
R E C
Parachute/Battlement Mesa Park and Recreation District “Where The Fun Begins”
Youth wrestling begins in mid-March By Parachute/Battlement Mesa Park and Recreation District Executive Director Mary Anderson
Plans continue for work to begin on the new community park, which is located on approximately six acres below the Grand Valley Middle School. Thank you to all the wonderful support from the local businesses and golf teams. The park will be built in stages. The championship game for the 2012 fall Colorado River League Youth Girls Basketball fifth and sixth grade girls is being held on Dec. 15. The fourth and fifth grade girls’ championship was played on Dec. 8. Thanks to all of the coaches and participants. Youth boys basketball for third through eighth graders will be held from early January to mid-March. Games are held both in Parachute and out of town on Saturdays and practices are held at one of the school gymnasiums two times a week. The fees are $45 plus a $35 refundable uniform fee. We are in need of at least one coach. Please sign up by Dec. 26. Youth wrestling begins in mid-March. Youth soccer is available for under 10, under 12 and under 14-yearold youngsters. Registrations are due by Feb 1. Dog park update.We want to thank the Mount Callahan Community Fund for donating $750 towards the new dog agility equipment. The dog park is located west of the skate park on Battlement Mesa to the north of Bea Underwood Elementary, overlooking the Colorado River. Rules are posted. There is a separate area for large dogs and small dogs. The recreation district’s five-member board of directors holds meetings on the second Tuesday or Wednesday of each month at 7 p.m. at the district office, 259 Cardinal Way. The board members are elected biannually by the members of the community. Current board members are Jason Fletcher, Denise Gallegos, Ron Palmer, Michael Richards and Marilyn Bulger. Check out the website for more information parachutebattlementparkandrecreation.org
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"
Page 8, GRAND VALLEY ECHO • Mid-December 2012/Mid-January 2013
Chamber News Great benefits for Chamber of Commerce members By Anne Huber, Parachute/Battlement Mesa Chamber of Commerce A membership to the Parachute/Battlement Mesa Chamber of Commerce comes with numerous benefits. A great benefit is a free listing on the chamber website pbmchamber.org. The website was recently revised and updated, making it easier to use. The chamber thanks Dr. Bruce Hoggan who dedicated many hours toward this upgrade. In addition, members receive a free link from the chamber website to their own business’ website. The chamber’s website has priority placement on many search engines, making its website a great tool for directing people to the services they need. The chamber’s new website has a listing of local businesses by category:
Business and Services; Dining; Finance; Health Care; Lodging; Government; NonProfit; Real Estate; Recreation; Religious Services; Oil & Gas; and Shopping. Member listings include a Google map. The Calendar page is under development and will soon feature up-to-date information about community happenings. Those interested in joining the chamber as a business member, nonprofit member or associate member, visit the website for application forms or call Mary Lee Mohrlang at 216-5058 for more information. mission of the The Parachute/Battlement Mesa Chamber of Commerce is to advance the general welfare and prosperity of the area so that its citizens and all of its business community shall prosper. All reasonable means of promotion shall be
provided and particular attention and emphasis shall be given to the economic, civic, commercial, cultural, industrial and educational interests of the area.
WHY SHOP LOCALLY? Local owners are local contributors Research has shown that small local businesses make indispensable contributions to communities and neighborhoods. According to the National Federation of Small Business, one study in Oregon of charitable giving showed that small firms gave an average of $789 per employee, medium sized firms $172, and large firms $334 including in-kind contributions. Also, large firms primarily give to the area where the corporation is headquartered, not necessarily where they do business.
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
Happy New Year!
GRAND VALLEY ECHO • Mid-December 2012/Mid-January 2013, Page 9
Echo Briefs Area businesses lend support to LIFT-UP during the holiday season Area businesses are stepping up with a wide range of initiatives to help LIFT-UP assist local families in need during the holidays. Alpine Bank recently selected LIFT-UP as a participant in their Fall Non-Profit Facebook Challenge. Whole Foods Market in Basalt ran a promotion throughout the entire month of November called Grab & Give, in which customers purchased pre-filled bags of food containing items for breakfast, lunch or dinner (or all three meals) for a family of four, with the meals being donated to LIFT-UP to distribute through their seven-area food pantries. Vitamin Cottage/Natural Grocers in Glenwood Meadows is running a similar campaign in their store through the end of the year, where customers may purchase bags that have been pre-filled with non-perishable food, or opt to fill a bag with their own selection of food items. For the second year in a row, Roaring Fork Liquors is donating their entire net profit from Black Friday's sales. Scott Black, owner of two Subway restaurants in Glenwood Springs, donated $1 for each six-inch sub and $2 for each 12-inch sub sold on Black Friday. Mike Powell, LIFT-UP's executive director said, "This support from local businesses is greatly appreciated, and it comes at our busiest time of year." In addition to serving an average of more than 1,800 people per month at the food pantries (in October, more than 2,500 people received assistance), and serving more than 1,200 meals each month at the two soup kitchens, LIFT-UP also provides holiday meal boxes for families in need for both Thanksgiving and Christmas. "This is what LIFT-UP is all about," said Powell. "We provide a way for the community to show their concern for their struggling neighbors, not just during the holidays but throughout the entire year." The year 2012 marks the 30th anniversary for LIFT-UP, and Mike Powell credits the generosity of the community for the effectiveness of the organization during the past three decades. – LIFT-UP
Nurturing Parenting Program being offered in Garfield County
www.bmac-co.org • 970-285-9480 (GRAND VALLEY RECREATION CENTER) Winter Swim Lesson Schedule Midday lessons: 12Noon – 12:40 PM Levels: Preschool ages 3 - 5, Levels 2, 3 and 5 8 lessons/$43 Mondays: January 14, 21, 28, February 4, 11, 18, 25 & March 4. ------Afternoon Lessons: 5:00 – 5:40 PM Levels: Preschool ages 3 – 5 years; Level 4 Mondays & Wednesdays, 8 lessons/$43 January 14, 16, 21, 23, 28, 30 & February 4 & 6 Call for details and sign up information BMAC/GVRC will close on Monday and Tuesday, December 24 and 25 for the Christmas holidays. Regular hours will resume Wednesday, December 26, 2012. Battlement Mesa Metropolitan District oversees the operations of the water and wastewater plants and also owns Battlement Mesa Activity Center. The BMMD website has valuable information about all district operations, district management, documents and employment. The BMMD Board of Directors meetings are held at the district office; 401 Arroyo Drive (across from the Activity Center) on the 4th Thursday of each month at 9 AM. November and December meetings are the 3rd Thursday. Meetings are open to the public.
www.bmmetrodistrict.com 970-285-9050 Office Hours: Monday - Friday 8 am - 5 pm
Promoting Safe and Stable Families, a federally-funded grant program, brings the nationally recognized Nurturing Parenting Program (NPP) to families in Garfield County. NPP enhances empathy, self worth, empowerment, and discipline, while parents and children have fun and grow closer as a family. The NPP integrates parents with their children in some of the class sessions in the curriculum. Parents are invited to register their families for the 15-week class, which begins in January. Space is limited. The program is offered at no cost to participants. Registration will occur during the first session, and dates and times for the class will be based on responses from local interested families. “This curriculum is funded to support families,” said Joyce Christensen, manager of Child Welfare Special Projects for Garfield County and head of the work group implementing the NPP class. “We welcome families to join us.This curriculum is evidence-based and has been a proven success in the United States and other countries.” Evidence-based behavioral practice promotes healthful behaviors by integrating evidence with practitioner expertise, along with the characteristics, needs, values and preferences of those who will be affected. For more information or to join the class, please contact Joyce Christensen, at 625-5282, ext. 3261 or jchristensen@garfield-county.com. – Renelle Lott, Garfield County
FOR RENT Battlement School House owned by Grand Valley Historical Society. We are offering the building for single event rent.
The building consists of two rooms, parking, a complete kitchen and rest room plus 10 tables and 150 chairs. Complete serving of china, silverware, glass ware available for nice parties. Great dance floor, too. Capacity 75
BOOK YOUR HOLIDAY PARTY NOW!
For more information contact: Judith at 285-9696 or Michelle at 285-7828
Page 10, GRAND VALLEY ECHO • Mid-December 2012/Mid-January 2013
O U R
S C H O O L S
Terrific Kids for November 2012 The Parachute/Battlement Mesa Kiwanis Club sponsors Bea Underwood Elementary School’s Terrific Kids. The program promotes character development and self-esteem. “TERRIFIC” is an acronym meaning Thoughtful, Enthusiastic, Respectful, Inclusive, Friendly, Inquisitive and Capable.
Bea Underwood Elementary School November’s Terrific Kids from Bea Underwood are, from left, first row, Opal Morgenthatler (Kiwanis representative), Tyler Miller, Cintia Cornejo, Chico Pennington, Alex Ponce, Chase Caudill, Carter Galloway, Savannah Woodhams, Teagan Jacobs; second row, Bill Coehlo (Kiwanis representative), Angela Espinoza, Kade Sackett, Carlos Ortiz, Kaylee Dupras, Skyleigh Shannon, Dillon Hurst, Josh Thorpe, Samantha Scott, Kathryn Keeling (principal); third row, Kaylie Stark, Carlos Carcamo-Hall, Collin Johnson, Emily Johnson, Alyssa Hoyt, Nichole Hughes, Brooke Shope, Aurelia Jiminez and Macy Cross. Photo courtesy of Jeanne Miles
Not pictured: Emme Place and Nicole Estrada
Grand Valley Center for Family Learning (CFL) News
Encouraging kids in science and math By CFL Principal Rebecca Ruland STEM is the acronym for science, technology, engineering and math. There is currently great concern about our educational system not creating a sufficient number of college graduates competent in STEM, therefore putting our country at an economic disadvantage, especially when compared to countries like China and India. In short, we want more college graduates in STEM careers. How do we get them? According to the August 2012 journal Scientific American, if you were to deconstruct the pathway of most STEM professionals, you would see students who completed a calculus course in high school, had high math and reading scores in high school, liked science and had parents who pushed them to know more about and do well in math and science. Most of these parents were professionals in the field of math and science. But what about younger children? A study aimed at better understanding the experiences of scientists revealed that men and women who pursue STEM degrees tend to become interested in science in elementary school. Women recalled specific teachers, classes and spending time outdoors while men were more influenced by tinkering, building and reading. Exposure to STEM fields early as well as hands-on opportunities were also critical. At our school, K-1 students visit the science room twice a week. There, they have unlimited opportunities to tinker, build and explore. Our teacher, Julie Rider, has a degree in biology and is about as enthusiastic as one can be about science; just talk to her about worms. One thing I have noticed is that kids really look forward to going to science and have begun to associate science with fun. On the horizon, our district is working to extend science and math opportunities for all students using Saint John’s Community Center. Presently, we are applying for a grant through the Colorado Legacy Foundation and the Colorado Department of Education to do just that. We will share details as they become clear. Ultimately, we want to inspire students’ passion for math and science.
Students learning about the seven habits
Center for Family Learning December students of the month: Jordin Carpenter, Raquel Corral Baeza, Alondra Paez, Emelina Romero, Suri Arcache, Lucy Lyons, Sebastian Freeman, Ezekiel Chan. Bill Coelho and Opal Morgenthaler with Kiwanis, Mrs. Hughes. Photo courtesy of GVCFL
Our students at the Center for Family Learning have been learning about the seven habits this year. The seven habits help our students take ownership in their learning and behaviors. The students have been working on habit number one, being proactive. Students were chosen for the months of November and December based on how they were able to display through their behavior what being proactive looks and sounds like. Students demonstrated being proactive by doing things such keeping their hands to themselves, using their words when resolving conflicts with others, being organized with their supplies and classroom materials and helping without being asked. We are very proud of all of our students for how hard they have been working this year. – Grand Valley Center for Family Learning
THIS PAGE SPONSORED BY:
GARFIELD COUNTY SCHOOL DISTRICT NO. 16 www.garcoschools.org
GRAND VALLEY ECHO • Mid-December 2012/Mid-January 2013, Page 11
O U R
S C H O O L S
Grand Valley High School News Off to a new start By Jordan Scott
Most Improved Student of the Month, sophomore Miguel Cervantes Sophomore Christian Gomez
Striver of the Month: Christian Gomez By Tanner Zimmerman, GVHS Here at Grand Valley High School, many awards are given to students each month for their character and performance in the classroom. One of the most important is the Striver of the Month. At GVHS being the most talented student is not always the most important thing. Instead, the most credible feat you can accomplish is striving to be the best you can be. This is where Striver of the Month is earned. To sophomore Christian Gomez went the spoils in November. Ms. Julie Lana had this to say about Christian: “He is quite the young man, he is learning English. Even some students who do speak English can’t find the recipe for success like he does.” The humble Christian could only think about what winning this award means to his family. “I want to make my family proud and be successful in all that I do. It means a lot to win this award, being in a new school, new country and learning a new language.” Christian Gomez also has some plans for the future. No doubt his character will get him far in life. “I want to go to college, I don’t know what I want to be, maybe a career in crime scene analysis.” Gomez is also involved in track and football; he loves to participate in anything he can at GVHS. Track coach and social studies teacher Mr. Mark Jansen knows Christian’s love to compete. “He has a knack for being able to see something and then do it correctly; he is always excited to be a part of his teams.” Christian earned this award by showing all of us what it means to strive to realize our potential.
Junior basketball players Tyler Scott (left) and Ivan Arizaga (right) Head coach Mike Johnson is confident of his team’s success.
The team to beat By Sierra Berger, GVHS Grand Valley Girls Basketball Team is staying after school, running their hearts out and pushing themselves every time they step onto the court. Their hearts are full of courage, strength and the drive to be the best. Each girl and coach knows they have what it takes to go all the way. The girls started off their season at the Holy Family Tournament in Denver where they faced some of the toughest teams in the state. Even though they want to be the best they know that winning isn’t everything. If you put your heart into something you love you will always come out on the top win or lose; that is our girl’s basketball team. Head Coach Mike Johnson describes the team as athletic and experienced. “We look far more experienced than we’ve looked in years past. We look fast and athletic.” Just like the team, Coach Johnson is very excited and confident that this year is the year for the girls to shine. When asked what the team goal was Coach Johnson answered, “To be the best team we can be.” The team is showing their skills and proving that they are as good as any other team in the state. We wish the Cardinal Girl’s Basketball Team luck this year. We know they will make us proud.
Squeaky shoes, sweat dripping from your face and the swoosh of a basketball falling through the hoop are key signs that basketball season has begun. Inspired by a successful football season the boys of Grand Valley’s basketball team are coming in hot and ready to work hard. New Coach Scott Parker is exposing the team to new styles of play. The players recently went to the Holy Family tournament in Denver. After two losses against some of the highest ranked teams in the state, junior Ivan Arizaga’s commented, “The first few games, we struggled finding chemistry but we improved as we continued to play. For being our first time on the court with a new coach, the season looks promising.” Moving forward, towards their league competitions, the Grand Valley basketball boys will continue working hard to represent GVHS.
Most Improved Student: Miguel Cervantes By Ivan Arizaga The Most Improved Student of the Month award for November goes to sophomore Miguel Cervantes. Miguel is a hard working student with many goals leading towards a successful future. When asked how he earned this award, Miguel responded, “I worked really hard to keep my grades in good shape; also I focused more on my school work.” His work ethic has helped him become more successful in school.
THIS PAGE SPONSORED BY:
GARFIELD COUNTY SCHOOL DISTRICT NO. 16 www.garcoschools.org
Miguel was asked if he was proud of this award. “Yes, I’m really proud of this award because I tried my hardest to keep my grades up and after all the hard work it paid off. It’s pretty amazing how working hard pays off. All at GVHS are really proud and congratulate Miguel Cervantes on his award.
Jesus Maldonado in the spotlight By Shannia Burns, GVHS
Student of the Month Jesus Maldonado
Jesus Maldonado is the Student of the Month for November. He has worked very hard this year and feels like he finally earned a little bit of recognition for his academic work. “I worked very hard to do all my work and kept my head up to pass my classes.” Jesus plans on continuing to excel even more so that he might be recognized at a higher level some day. Being a junior and winning this award is notable. Jesus is a very friendly guy who is always willing to help others. “I always give students advice to do their work and pay attention in their classes,” advice Jesus wishes he would have received earlier in his academic career. So what does the future hold for this student of the month? Jesus is currently on the basketball team and hopes to keep his grades up and have fun during his junior year. He wants to take advantage of being a kid, but knows that academics come first. Good luck Jesus. Job well done.
Page 12, GRAND VALLEY ECHO • Mid-December 2012/Mid-January 2013
Echo Briefs Award for Excellence given to the Parachute Branch Library’s Karol Sacca Parachute Branch Library Manager Karol Sacca received Lucy Schweers Award for Excellence in Para Librarianship at the 2012 Colorado Association of Libraries Conference. This award is given to a librarian who displays outstanding leadership and service, as well as excellence in the library, information or media field within the state of Colorado. Nominees must directly or indirectly serve patrons and communities in a way that goes beyond basic requirements of his or her job. Karol was selected among a number of nominees from throughout Colorado. – Kelsey Been, Garfield County Libraries
Treating Adults & Children Specialist in orthodontics and dentofacial orthopedics
NOW SERVING PARACHUTE & BATTLEMENT MESA Brian J. Burton DMD,MS Karol Sacca, Parachute Branch Library
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 June Moore, Meals on Wheels recipient, and Chelsea Lorean, Ms. Western Colorado US Universal 2013.
Chelsea Lorean, Ms. Western Colorado US Universal 2013, delivers “Meals on Heels” to Parachute area Grand River Meals on Wheels Photos courtesy of Annick Pruett clients.
970-243-6455 225 Callahan Avenue • Parachute, Colorado
Meals on Heels serves Meals on Wheels Grand River’s Meals on Wheels clients got a special treat on Nov. 30 when Chelsea Lorean, Ms. Western Colorado US Universal 2013, delivered lunches during the quarterly “Meals on Heels” event. Chelsea’s commitment to the elderly is heartfelt as she lost her own Nana in 2006. Chelsea witnessed her Nana’s deterioration from dementia firsthand. The love and respect she had for her Nana fires Chelsea’s passion for the elderly. Her platform is to aid the elderly, especially those in hospice or with Alzheimer’s disease. “Giving back and working with the elderly plays a huge role in my title and reign,” said Chelsea. “I would love to volunteer to help raise awareness for the Grand River Meals on Wheels program.” Chelsea is a native Coloradan and a Rifle High School graduate. She lives in Battlement Mesa with her young family and represents the Western Slope as Ms. Western Colorado US Universal 2013. Grand River Meals on Wheels currently provides more than 1,000 meals a month and the need is growing as each month passes. The next Meals on Heels will be in March. For more information on becoming a Meals on Wheels driver, please contact Kaaren Peck at 625-6423. – Annick Pruett, Grand River Hospital District
Battlement Mesa Activity Center becomes Grand Valley Recreation Center The Battlement Mesa Metropolitan District (BMMD) Board of Directors recently approved a name change for the Battlement Mesa Activity Center (BMAC), effective Jan. 1, 2013. The new name will be Grand Valley Recreation Center (GVRC). The name is representative of the communities served by the center, including Battlement Mesa, Parachute, Rulison, Morrisania, Rifle and DeBeque as well as recognizing the historical name of the valley. The center is owned by the BMMD that also owns Battlement Mesa’s water and sewer departments. The new name will also help residents differentiate between fees assessed by other groups in the community such as the Battlement Mesa Service Association. – Battlement Mesa Metro District
103.9 FM
TUNE IN! BROADCASTING 24/7! Syndicated Radio Programs • Local Programming YOUR SOURCE FOR EMERGENCY WEATHER AND AMBER ALERTS 2012 KSUN christmas GALA KSUN will hold it's 2012 Christmas Gala on Saturday, December 1st at the Activity Center. Our dinner/dance from 7 to 10 pm promises to be a great night of entertainment and outstanding food! Tickets are $30 in advance and are available at the Activity Center, Alpine Bank and Old Mountain Jewelry. KSUN MEMBERSHIP DRIVE STILL GOING STRONG Many thanks to those that have supported our recent KSUN membership drive. Your funds are definitely appreciated and needed to keep KSUN on the air. But it is certainly not too late to join. Membership is only $25. Please call Floyd, our station manager, at 285-2246. You can help us reach our goal of $2,500.
KSUn radio - THE VOICE OF THE GRAND VALLEY HIGH SCHOOL CARDINALS. BROADCASTING GAMES LIVE!
KSUN COMMUNITY RADIO 398 Arroyo Drive, Battlement Mesa • 285-2246
www.ksunradio.org
GRAND VALLEY ECHO • Mid-December 2012/Mid-January 2013, Page 13
Mesa Vista News December festivities at Mesa Vista By Kathy Germano, Mesa Vista Assisted Living Residence activity director The holiday season is upon us and Mesa Vista residents are gearing up for an exciting time. The residents participated in the Parachute craft fair and the Rifle Senior Center craft fair and were able raise money for the activities fund. Special thanks to Dianne and Penelope who volunteered their craft ideas and time; the sales were a great success. The Grand Valley Sew & Sew Quilters presented a beautiful quilt to hang up in the residences’ fireplace room. We all feel so fortunate to live in such a caring community. The 4-H group decked the halls of Mesa Vista on Dec. 9, making the residence festive for the holiday season. The annual holiday party for family and friends of Mesa Vista was held on Dec. 14. The seniors will be touring local neighborhoods, enjoying all the Christmas lights and decorations on Dec. 21. If anyone is interested in caroling for our residents please give us a call. Celebrating December birthday’s are Muriel Stewart on Dec. 9, Linda Gray on Dec. 20 and Mary Bushong on Dec. 28. Happy Birthday! All are welcome to stop in and see the wonderful decorations and join the residents for some hot chocolate any time. We hope you will stop by Mesa Vista during this season, and we wish you a safe and happy holiday.
Page 14, GRAND VALLEY ECHO • Mid-December 2012/Mid-January 2013
Nature at Home and Afield By Betsy Leonard
Water quality: A broader perspective
“It is easy to throw anything into the river, but difficult to - Kashmiri proverb take it out again.”
The vast majority of surface water on our planet is neither potable nor toxic; in fact, only about one percent of the water on our planet is fresh and used by humans. Because Earth is a “closed system,” as a whole, matter is not gained or lost, including water. That means that the same water that existed on Earth millions of years ago is still here. Thanks to the water cycle, water is continually being recycled around the globe. With this in mind, it becomes critically important to keep our water clean. In setting water quality standards, agencies make political, technical and scientific decisions about how water will be used. In the case of natural water bodies, there will be some reasonable estimate of pristine conditions. We are especially concerned about water that is treated for human consumption, industrial use, and the environment. Because clean water is important to maintaining human health, the US Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) limits the amounts of certain contaminants in tap water that is provided by US public water systems. The Safe Drinking Water Act, passed in 1974, amended in 1986 and 1996, authorizes EPA to issue two types of standards: primary standards regulate substances that potentially affect human health, and secondary standards prescribe aesthetic qualities — those that affect taste, odor or appearance. It might be mentioned here that the oil and gas industry is exempt from the regulations of this act and it is hoped that they will be a good neighbor. The amounts of dissolved material in drinkable groundwater are very small, usually measured by weight in parts per million (ppm). A typical figure for the total dissolved material in good water is 150 ppm. The upper limit for human consumption is 500-1000 ppm; for watering livestock, it is usually 2000 ppm. Dissolved organic compounds are the worst offenders to water taste. Some of these are harmless, while others are toxic. Some dissolved components have no taste but are beneficial. Conversely, some toxic elements have no taste, but in more than minute quantities are dangerous to health. Concentrations of such poisonous elements as lead and arsenic must be monitored carefully. We take our water from the Colorado River rather than from groundwater, and the same standards apply. We can recycle some of the water that we use. By treating our sewage in effective water treatment plants, we can release this treated water back into the river. Treatment can occur in three stages, yet in Battlement the water undergoes two stages only. Primary treatment physically removes large objects; sand, dirt, and other solids settle out in grit chambers. The secondary stage destroys biodegradable organic matter through biological decay or by passing the liquid sludge through a trickling filter (long pipes rotate slowly over a bed of stones and sometimes bark, dripping wastes on an artificial decomposer food web consisting of bacteria, protozoa, fungi, snails, worms, and insects). Tertiary treatment further removes chemicals but tends to be costly, and is not used frequently unless water is being released into a body of water requiring a high level of purity. Water quality is a complex subject, in part because water is so tied to Earth’s ecology. Industrial and commercial activities (for example, manufacturing, mining, drilling, construction, transport) are a major cause of water pollution as are runoff from agricultural areas, urban runoff and discharge of untreated sewage. We must all be vigilant to keep our water supplies clean.
GRAND VALLEY ECHO • Mid-December 2012/Mid-January 2013, Page 15
Children’s oral health By Ann Galloway, NP-C, Grand River Student Health Center By Ann Galloway, NP-C, Grand River
Oral health is important to everyone, but children’s oral health is especially important; so important that it is one of the top health priorities in the nation and in the state of Colorado. In 2012, Gov. John Hickenlooper designated children’s oral health as one of Colorado’s 10 winnable battles in the next five years. This is a battle we need to tackle. The statistics are startling: • 45.4 percent of Colorado kindergarteners have experienced dental cavities; 22.9 percent had untreated tooth decay and 4.6 percent were in urgent need of dental care. • Nearly 60 percent of low-income kindergarteners have tooth decay. For more than one in four of these children, the tooth decay is untreated. • Only three percent of 1 year olds in Colorado had a dental visit in 2010 despite recommendations of a first dental visit at age 1 by the American Dental Association and the American Academy of Pediatrics. • Dental disease is the leading chronic disease among Colorado’s children and is five times more prevalent than asthma. Oral disease impacts physical, emotional and social health. It can negatively impact a child’s school performance, speech development, nutrition, growth and development, self esteem and sleep. The tragedy is that this disease is entirely preventable. Prevention can occur through public health strategies, access to oral health care and education of parents and children. Causes of oral disease are varied and may involve more than one factor. A family’s preventative practices, access to dental insurance and care, parent’s oral health, and a community’s water fluoridation are factors that can affect a child’s susceptibility to oral disease. Additionally, diet choices, overall health, bacteria levels in the mouth and history of oral disease can impact oral health. Previous tooth decay is a predictor of future dental problems. Dental decay in baby teeth can lead to decay in adult permanent teeth. Baby teeth are important. Parents can transmit bacteria that cause tooth decay to their children through their saliva by sharing eating utensils and toothbrushes with their children. Leaving an infant unattended with a bottle or giving children too much juice or other sugary drinks can cause the bacteria to grow uncontrolled. Not brushing or flossing teeth regularly can also contribute to oral disease. In the coming months, I will address actions parents can take to protect their children’ oral health and actions communities can take to protect all residents from this preventable disease. Everyone is needed if we are going to win the battle against oral disease in Colorado.
Ann Galloway is a certified nurse practitioner who works at the Grand River Student Health Center in Parachute.
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
Health Brief Health officials report an increase in norovirus outbreaks in Mesa County MESA COUNTY – The Mesa County Health Department is beginning to see an increase in norovirus outbreaks in the community. Norovirus outbreaks occur throughout the year though according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) more than 80 percent of outbreaks occur from November to April. Norovirus spreads when people have contact with infected people, consume contaminated food or water, or touch contaminated objects. Symptoms include vomiting, diarrhea, and stomach cramping caused by inflammation of the stomach and intestines. Other symptoms can include fever, headache and/or body aches. Some symptoms of norovirus can lead to dehydration. Severe dehydration may require hospitalization for treatment with fluids given through intravenous fluids. Children who become dehydrated as a result of the illness may cry with few or no tears and be unusually sleepy or fussy. If you think you or someone you are caring for is severely dehydrated, call a doctor. Outbreaks can also occur in healthcare facilities, including nursing homes. Outbreaks in these settings can be quite long, sometimes lasting months. Illness can be more severe, occasionally even fatal, in hospitalized or nursing home patients compared to otherwise healthy people. There is no specific medicine to treat people with norovirus illness. Health officials recommend drinking plenty of liquids to replace lost fluids. Sports drinks and other drinks without caffeine or alcohol can help with mild dehydration. Health officials also recommend washing hands regularly and staying home when you are sick. – Karen Martsolf, Mesa County Departments of Health and Human Services
Page 16, GRAND VALLEY ECHO • Mid-December 2012/Mid-January 2013
H E A LT H
The Tooth of the Matter
Health Briefs Grand River Student Health Center’s new hours The Grand River Student Health Center will begin offering extended late hours for students, teachers and staff of Garfield County School District 16 in January to meet the needs of working parents and school employees. Beginning the week of Jan. 7, the clinic will be open Tuesday through Friday, 8 a.m. to 6 p.m. See locations below: Mondays: Clinic is closed Tuesdays: Center for Family Learning; 8 am – 6 pm Mental Health Appointments; 10 am – 6 pm Wednesdays: Bea Underwood Elementary; 8 am – 6 pm Mental Health Appointments; 10 am – 6 pm Thursdays: Grand Valley Middle School; 8 am – 12:30 pm Center for Family Learning; 1:30 pm – 6 pm Mental Health Appointments; 10 am – 6 pm Fridays: Center for Family Learning; 8 am – 6 pm Call 285-5719 for more details or to make appointments. Walk-ins for acute visits are welcome. – Ann Galloway, NP-C, Grand River Student Health Center
Health And Fitness 101 Get your year off to a great start with Health and Fitness 101 on Jan. 12 at 9:30 a.m. at the Parachute Branch Library. Tiffany Chapman starts the morning off with a discussion on the best exercises for you. Grand River Medical Center’s Dr. Kevin Coleman follows at 10:30 a.m. talking about preventative medicine followed by a question and answer session. Finish off the morning with registered dietician Mickie Hosack at 11:30 a.m. She will discuss proper diet and nutrition. Lunch will be served immediately after the talks and is guaranteed to be delicious and good for you. Call the Parachute Library 285-9870 to reserve your spot by Jan. 4. This program is sponsored in part by the Battlement Mesa Activity Center, Grand River Hospital District and the Garfield County Library District.
All I want for Christmas is my two front teeth By Carol Lybrook, DDS Since 1946, every holiday season surrounds us with the words and lyrics of a song written by Don Gardner called “All I Want for Christmas Is My Two Front Teeth.” This special holiday song is popular with children but true for some adults. Crowns and conventional bridges or dentures may not be the only options when replacing missing teeth. For some people, dental implants offer a smile that looks and feels very natural. But, do implants work if you have diabetes? According to the American Dental Association, the idea of combining dental implants and diabetes has long been thought foolish, in particular in the case of uncontrolled diabetes. Uncontrolled diabetics are at far greater risk of oral infections, which weaken their jaw bone tissue, making the successful fusion of the jawbone and the titanium implant rod very difficult. Dental implants and diabetes have a much better chance of being compatible in people who have their diabetes under control. Because the overall life expectancy continues to increase, dentists providing dental implant treatment can expect to see an increasing number of patients with diabetes mellitus. Today, there is very little data available concerning the clinical outcomes involving the use of implant treatment for patients with diabetes mellitus. There are three types of diabetes mellitus: Type 1 (insulin dependent), Type 2 (noninsulin dependent), and gestational. Individuals suffering from diabetes, especially uncontrolled diabetics, have a higher risk of developing bacterial infections of the mouth. These infections may impair your ability to process insulin, resulting in greater difficulty with controlling your diabetes. Periodontal diseases will be more severe than those of a non-diabetic and treatment more difficult. However, well-controlled diabetics have a lower incidence of decay and periodontitis. Implant procedures and periodontal surgery are routinely successful on well-controlled diabetics. It has become increasingly common for controlled diabetic patients to be considered as candidates for dental implants. Screening for diabetes and trying to ensure that implant candidates are in metabolic control are recommended to increase the chances of successful Osseointegration. Antibiotic protection and avoidance of smoking also should be considered. Diabetes mellitus is no longer considered to be a contraindication for implant-supported prostheses, provided that the patient’s blood sugar is under control and that there is motivation for oral hygiene procedures. The ideal candidate for a dental implant is in good general and oral health. Adequate bone in your jaw is needed to support the implant, and the best candidates have healthy gum tissues that are free of periodontal disease. Dental implants are intimately connected with the gum tissues and underlying bone in the mouth. Periodontists are the dental experts who specialize in precisely these areas, thus they are ideal members of your dental implant team. Not only do periodontists have experience working with other dental professionals, they also have the special knowledge, training and facilities that you need to have teeth that look and feel just like your own. If you feel you are a candidate, talk to your dentist about your options. You will not have to experience another holiday season singing “All I want for Christmas is my two front teeth.” Happy Holidays from all of us here at Lybrook Dental Center. See you in 2013! The author, Dr. Carol Lybrook and her husband, Dr. Scott Lybrook, operate Lybrook Dental Center in Parachute and Fruita.
GRAND VALLEY ECHO • Mid-December 2012/Mid-January 2013, Page 17
FA I T H
As I See It
• The Echo Worship Directory •
Yes, Santa Claus, there is a Virginia
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 Dear Santa Claus, I am sure that you must have heard by now of the editorial in the New York Sun many years ago entitled, “Yes, Virginia, there is a Santa Claus.” I understand it is the most reprinted editorial in the English language. An 8year-old girl named Virginia wrote a letter to the Sun asking if you existed. She had been told that if you see it in the Sun, it’s true. In response to her question, the editor Francis Church assured her that you did indeed exist and that you “will continue to make glad the heart of childhood.” I am writing this letter to you today in the Echo to remind you on behalf of Virginia that she exists. I thought that if you saw it in the Echo you would know that it is true. Yes, Santa Claus, there is a Virginia and she needs you now more than ever. She knows how busy you are this time of year with all the responsibilities that demand your time and attention. But she feels sometimes that you have forgotten her. She doesn’t understand a lot of things, but she wants so much for you to spend time with her. She dreams of sitting on your lap and touching your bearded face and having fun with you. She squeals with delight at making cookies for you. And Santa, she would like to be back at the top of your list. She will always like presents, but she wishes so much for you to play with her, laugh with her, and listen to her. She wants to give you a hug and wrap her arms around you. She would also want nothing more than to have you rock her to sleep this Christmas eve. She also needs to know that Christmas is more than toys and tinsel. It won’t be long before Grandma will go to be with Jesus. She needs to know about heaven – the place where her grandma will have rest and peace forever. She needs to know about the true meaning of Christmas. It would help her so much to know that her Heavenly Father created her special. She does need to know how much God loves her, too and that he gave his Son for her. More than anything, that is what makes Christmas special. It would be wonderful if you would see that she gets to church where she could hear about God. When her grandma dies, she needs to find answers to some tough things. While you have helped her with so many things, she will need to deal with some of these things in her own heart. And you will need to show her where to find the answers she needs. For goodness sake, she will also need to know that when she is naughty she can be forgiven and is still loved. When she does well, she needs you to praise her. There are many people who have stood in for you, Santa, in Battlement Mesa and Parachute. The grandpas and grandmas, church people, the Kiwanis, the Grand Valley Givers, the school teachers and administrators, the kind merchants in the stores, and neighbors have given presents, food, and clothes when you are not around or when you are having a hard time, but Virginia knows that no one can take your place. Santa, I wanted to warn you that before long one of her schoolmates is going to tell her that you are her daddy. I hope that when that happens, her faith in you will not be shaken. She will keep on believing that faith and love and goodwill are as present as ever. As she gets older, she will need you even more as her heart gets tromped on by the hard things of life. Please always be there for her. It has been a long time since I’ve written. I only have one wish this Christmas. I want you to remember, Santa, there is a Virginia. Yours Truly, The boy you gave the red wagon in 1958
Grace Bible Church
Group twice a month at 7:00 p.m.
0755 Spencer Parkway P.O. Box 6248 Battlement Mesa, CO 81636 285-9862
Our church has been active in serving the area for 122 years! Come Join Us This Sunday!
Charlie Hornick, Pastor Jed Johnston, Family Life Pastor Chasity McGillivray, GBC Child Care Director Jonathan & Bethany Koehn, Ministry in Spanish Stephen & Amanda Chapman, Church Planting
All Saints' Episcopal Church 150 Sipprelle Dr. Battlement Mesa 285-7908 Pastor's mobile: 985-5797 The Reverend Edmond-Joseph Rivet, Priest-in-charge Website: allsaintsepiscopal.info Church e-mail: office@allsaintsepiscopal.info Pastor e-mail: frej@allsaintsepiscopal.info Sunday Sunday Eucharist: 11:00 a.m. Choir: 9:30 a.m. Children's Sunday School: 11-11:30 WOW: Worship On Wednesday Eucharist: 6 p.m. Repast 6:30 p.m. Study: 7 p.m.
Sunday Blessing Up for Church Broadcast 8:00am 103.9 FM Sunday School: 9:30-10:15am Morning Worship: 10:30am Youth / Children’s Activities Grace Bible Church Child Care: Mon – Fri. Boy Scouts – Call for days/time Awana: Wednesdays 6:30pm (Sept. – April) Middle & High School Youth (Call for times) Boy Scout Troop # 255 – Mondays at 6:00pm *Bible Studies, Special Activities (Call for times and places) Email: pastorch@grace-bible-church.com Website: www.grace-bible-church.com 24-Hour Prayer Line: 256-4693 •••
•••
Grand Valley Christian Church
Crown Peak Baptist Church
Second Street & Parachute Avenue Parachute
101 W. Battlement Parkway Parachute 285-7946 crownpeakbaptist.com Rick Van Vleet, Senior Pastor Dan LaRue, Associate Pastor Matt Loftin, Youth Pastor Brian Jarrett, Minister of Music Sunday Morning Worship – 8:30 a.m. & 11 a.m. Sunday Morning Bible Study for all ages – 9:45 a.m. (Children's Church offered during 11 a.m. service) Wed. Night Dinner 5:30 p.m. Wed. Night Programs 6:30 p.m. (Adult, Children & Youth Groups) Small groups meet throughout the week ... Visit our website for more information. Come -- Experience God's Power for life & living Know -- Christ through a loving family for fellowship Grow -- In Christ through a foundation of discipleship Go -- With Christ in a ministry of service with a focus for evangelism
•••
Faith Baptist Church 235 N. Railroad Ave. Parachute John Yadloski, Pastor 285-7424 Sunday Sunday School: 9:45 a.m. Morning Worship: 11 a.m. Children’s Church: 11:15 a.m. Wednesday Bible Study: 7 p.m.
Richard Counts, Pastor 285-7597, 260-1080 e-mail: office@mygvcc.info Church Office 285-7597 Sunday worship 10:00 a.m. •••
Grand Valley United Methodist Church 132 N. Parachute Ave. Parachute, Co. 81635 970-285-9892 grandvalleyumc.qwestnetoffice.com grandvalleyumc@qwestoffice.net We are a Christ-centered congregation committed to biblical and theological openness and inclusiveness. SUNDAY MORNING SCHEDULE Adult Sunday School: 8:30 a.m. Children’s Sunday School: 9:00 a.m. Worship Service at 10:00 a.m. Fellowship Time with refreshments at 11:00 a.m. We have a Communion Service on the First Sunday of every month Our “Awakening Chorus” Choir practices on Wednesdays at 7:00 p.m. We Invite you to Attend our Special Services on Thanksgiving, Christmas Eve, Ash Wednesday, Maundy Thursday, Good Friday Tenebrae Service, Easter Sunrise Service and Breakfast. We offer many volunteer opportunities to support community agencies. We host a free luncheon every Monday open to all. We offer a community garden that is free to all. Meditation and Spiritual Growth
•••
The Lighthouse (Assembly of God) 1833 S. Battlement Parkway Battlement Mesa 285-7236 or 379-5947 (Pastor's cell) Pastor: Dr. Robert C. McNew Services Sunday school: Sunday, 9:30 a.m. Worship service: Sunday, 10:30 a.m. (Children's Church & Nursery) Ladies’ Bible study and luncheon: Tuesday, 12-2 p.m. •••
Shepherd of the Mesa (WELS) (A member of the Wisconsin Evangelical Lutheran Synod) We worship on the St. John Community Center Campus (just off of Stone Quarry Road) at 10:00 am on Sunday Mornings and at 7:00 pm on Wednesday Evenings. Everyone Welcome! Weekly Schedule: Monday 9:00 am Ladies Bible Class 9:45 am Kids’ Club, pre-school through 2nd Grade 1:00 pm 8th Grade Catechism 2:00 pm 7th Grade Catechism 3:00 pm 3rd through 6th Grade Bible History Tuesday 9:00 am – 12 noon Office Hours 7:00 pm Pause to Praise Radio Program on KSUN 103.9 Wednesday 9:00 am – 12 noon Office Hours 7:00 pm Soup, Sandwiches and Scripture Thursday 9:00 am – 12 noon Office Hours 7:00 pm Leadership Meeting 3rd Thursday of the Month Sunday 10:00 am Worship 11:00 am SIS (Sisters in Service) meets the 3rd Sunday of the Month 3:00 pm Youth Group meets the 2nd Sunday of the Month Pastor Bill Cornelius Pastor’s Cell Phone (970)-987-3093 E-mail shepherdofthemesa@q.com Web site: www.shepherdofthemesa.org •••
Wellspring of Life Church at Grand Valley Middle School 0364 Sipprelle Drive Parachute Pastor David Bartlett Sunday Service Time: 10 a.m. Youth and Children’s Sunday School 210-5795 210-5849 •••
Page 18, GRAND VALLEY ECHO • Mid-December 2012/Mid-January 2013
Where’s Redstone? Now that there’s snow, Redstone is a winter wonderland
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.
Christmas Tree Rides
Sleigh Rides
By Sue McEvoy, Echo staff writer What better way to get a taste of the holiday season than to take a trip to Redstone – winterwonderland of the Crystal Valley. Along the Boulevard, homes and businesses are strung with lights and decorated like gift boxes. Warm cheer awaits in the shops and restaurants. Snowmen and reindeer appear in front yards, locals don cross-country skis to get to the Redstone General Store, and horse-drawn sleighs carry visitors along the path day or night to see the sights. History is never far away in Redstone. One of the best times of the year to visit the Redstone Inn is the weeks surrounding Christmas and New Year’s. Both holidays have special dinners, renowned in the area. The historic Redstone Castle is open for guided tours on weekends and will offer extended hours over the holiday season. Call 970-963-9656 for more information. Outdoor activities abound now. Everything from snowshoeing, ice climbing, backcountry skiing and Christmas-tree hunting can be found in and around Redstone. Just getting to Redstone is a pleasant, snowy experience as you leave the busy highways and cruise along the West Elk Scenic Byway beginning in Carbondale. Be prepared for winter driving as meander along the two-lane road that winds along with the Crystal River and is soon surrounded by the towering cliffs of red sandstone that give the town its name. Redstone is located on Highway 133, 18 miles south of Carbondale. Take I-70 to Glenwood Springs and Highway 82 to the junction of Highway 133 at Carbondale. Hope to see you in Redstone!
Join us for a winter sleigh or wagon ride and go home with your Christmas Tree! $25/pp for sleigh or wagon ride; Ages 6-12 $10, 5 & under, free $40 for the tree • Hot cocoa included Make reservations at The Redstone Inn: 963-2526. PLEASE CALL 24-48 HOURS IN ADVANCE.
Christmas Tree Rides
Book your winter adventure by calling 963-1144 or (229) 221-4590
Winter Trail Rides
For the western adventure of a lifetime… UNDER SPECIAL USE PERMIT FROM USFS OUTFITTER # 2463
• Hourly or full day trail rides • Carriage or wagon rides • Pack trips to scenic Avalanche Lake • First-class, fully guided or drop camp hunts for elk, bear, mule deer, mountain goat or bighorn sheep
Bolling Jones, Owner Randy Melton, Outfitter
970-963-1144
www.redstonestables.com • avalancheoutfitters@gmail.com
redstonecolorado.com
i|á|à exwáàÉÇxVtáàÄx‹
THE HEART OF REDSTONE WITH A UNIQUE SELECTION OF CENTERPIECES FOR YOUR HOME! REDSTONE CASTLE TOUR TICKETS AVAILABLE HERE! OPEN YEAR ROUND • OPEN DAILY
REDSTONE CASTLE TOURS
REDSTONE ART CENTER New owners: Michael and Stephanie Askew
Tickets available at Tiffany of Redstone, and the Redstone General Store
970-963-1769 225 Redstone Blvd. • Redstone
Saturday, Sunday • 1:30 p.m. (Daily tours start May 14th) Tickets: $15 adults, $10 seniors, children 5-18 Children under 5: FREE (FOR GROUP TOURS CALL 970-963-9656)
CASH OR CHECK ONLY
888-963-3790 • REDSTONEART.COM
www.redstonecastle.us
GRAND VALLEY ECHO • Mid-December 2012/Mid-January 2013, Page 19
C R I M E
THE ECHO CLASSIFIEDS FOR RENT: FOR RENT - PARACHUTE: Three bedroom, two and half bath townhome. Fenced patio, opposite park, one-car garage, in family neighborhood. All appliances including washer/dryer. N/S, security deposit. $850 per month. Call 618-4930. 12-1x FOR RENT: Battlement Mesa - 3 bedroom (1 master with large walk-in closet), 2 bath upstairs, end-unit condo. Laundry room with washer/dryer, AC, balcony with closet, 1 car garage with storage room and closet. Rec Center dues included. $1,000/mo. rent; security deposit negotiable. NS, pets considered. Call 7040373. tfn
SERVICES: SERVICES: Mike's Home Maintenance Service - Providing home service for the Battlement area. Lawns mowed from $15-35. Leaf removal/gutters cleaned. General home maintenance. Minor plumbing. House painting. Tree trimming and clean-up, $45-70/tree. (Note: Globe willows shed multiple limbs and excess leaves - this can be controlled with correct trimming.) Call Mike 285-9330. 12-3 pd SERVICES: Laptop or desktop all brand repair. Broken screen? Running slow? Blue or black screen? Virus? We provide SALES, REPAIR, TRADE-IN, OR RECYCLING. We can fix most problems quickly. Free pick-up and delivery. We accept all credit cards. Call Dick at 250-5154 tfn
FOR SALE: FOR SALE: Four Michelin X-Ice snow tires, only five weeks old. Like brand new. 265/170R16. Original price $856, will sell for $700. Buy three, get one free. Call Sandy 970-963-4633. 12- 1x 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 FOR SALE: 10’ Garage Door. White w/small decorative windows. In Redstone. You pick up. $250 OBO. 970-963-2373 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 HELP WANTED: HELP WANTED: Part-time Pharmacy Technician position at Clark’s Pharmacy in Battlement. Pharmacy experience desired, certification a bonus. Must be detail oriented and a quick learner. Please e-mail resumes with references to pharmacy@clarksmarket.com, or fax attn: Lisa 285-0149.12-1x
P R E V E N T I O N
Another phone scam reported in Garfield County By Tanny McGinnis, Garfield County Sheriff's Office
The Garfield County Sheriff’s Office is warning citizens about a another active phone scam in which the caller threatens the victim with imprisonment if the victim does not fully cooperate. The caller has a foreign accent and leads people to believe he is calling on behalf of an attorney’s office in Dallas, Texas. The caller states that the victim will be contacted by the sheriff and an investigation team within 24 hours at their place of employment. Upon contact, the victim will then be arrested and held in jail until the investigation is complete. The individuals performing this scam obtain personal identifiable information about the caller and use it in order to gain access to other information, which may include money. The caller uses what at first appears to be a believable scenario,, fear and personal information in order to gain cooperation with the victim. This scam has been reported in Garfield County, as well as nationwide. The Garfield County Sheriff’s Office reminds citizens to NEVER release personal information over the phone and to always report suspicious activity immediately! In an effort to be prepared, please visit the Better Business Bureau’s website at bbb.org. Sheriff Lou Vallario wants the citizens of Garfield County to be on high alert. We are seeing an alarming increase of victims being scammed in our communities. Don’t be a victim – have a plan. Click “delete” or hang up the phone. Don’t engage – you can’t lose an argument if you don’t argue.
Burglary Prevention Tips of the Day: Never leave your home without locking your doors and windows. Use the double lock theory making it difficult for burglars to get in. This can be done many different ways: door knob locks, dead bolts and placing dowels in your sliding windows and doors. Make sure you have plenty of exterior lights around your home and that they are turned on when you leave. Motion sensor lights are a startling surprise to an unwelcomed guest. When possible, make sure lights are mounted high enough that it is not easy to unscrew the light bulbs. Never leave valuables in your home in plain sight; don’t tempt burglars with an incentive to invest more time and more risk into breaking into your home.
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-December 2012/Mid-January 2013