• Serving the Grand Valley since 2008 •
Providing a voice for community-based organizations and individuals that enrich the life of the Grand Valley Volume 4 Number 12
INSIDE
FREE
Mid-September / Mid-October 2012
A fundraising fall…
Bike Rodeo page 6
Lots of local groups are planning benefits to raise money for various causes. On Sept. 15, the Battle for the Cure will pit women against men in a friendly golfing fundraiser at the Battlement Mesa Golf Course for breast cancer research. The Community Classic golf tournament, also at the Battlement Mesa Golf Course, is coming up on Sept. 29 to raise money for the community park being planned in Battlement (see story below); All Saints’ Church is having its Bluegrass and Chili Festival the evening of Sept. 29 (left, from last year); and the Grand Valley Sew and Sew Quilters and the Grand Valley Historical Society will ask for small donations to support the historical society at the Grand Valley Quilt Show on Sept. 29-30 (quilts at the Glover Cabin, (lower left). The PEO Chapter IW is planning its Fall Fashion Show on Oct. 20, and The Grand Valley Kiwanis Club is getting ready for their food drive to benefit LIFT-UP on Oct. 27 – and there are more. Check inside the Echo, including the calendar page on page 4. Echo file photos
Sports & Rec page 7
Mesa Vista News page 11
Wizard of Oz page 15
Second annual Battlement Mesa/Parachute Community Classic is on Sept. 29 The second annual Community Classic still has openings for participants to get involved. The fundraiser golf tournament is on Sept. 29 at the Battlement Mesa Golf Course with a shotgun start at 10 a.m. The Classic is a four-person scramble and is limited to the first 100 registered players. Registration and entry forms are available at the golf course. Cost is $75 per player. The entry fee includes 18 holes of golf with a cart, continental breakfast, lunch, and a hat, plus first, second, and third place prizes as well as hole prizes. One hundred percent of the fundraising efforts will be contributed to the future community park to be constructed in Battlement Mesa next to Grand Valley Middle School.
If you would like to be a sponsor or just contribute to the tournament, please contact John Constine at 285-6982. For more information call Jason at the golf course, 2857274. So, get your team together and fill out an entry form. – Common Ground Golfing in the 2011 Community Classic. Photo by Keith Lammey
Page 2, GRAND VALLEY ECHO • Mid-September/Mid-October 2012
LETTERS TO THE ECHO Send us a letter. Got something on your mind? We’ve expanded our word-count limit to 500 words or less for Letters to the Echo to give you plenty of space to express yourselves. The Echo welcomes your input, opinions, thanks and whatever else you’d like to share with our readers, provided it’s written in a respectful, civil way. (Please, no unsubstantiated attacks, etc.) The Echo reserves the right to edit and proofread letters. Send your words to The Grand Valley Echo, gve@crystalvalleyecho.com, or 274 Redstone Blvd., Redstone, CO 81623. Please be sure to include your name, title if necessary, and where you live. Thanks.
Protect our three Rs through the Garfield Legacy Project
•• 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. BARBARA PAVLIN, ADVERTISING SALES • 285-7634
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
Dear Echo:
The campaign to “Protect our Ranchlands, Rivers and Recreation Economy” has officially begun! The Garfield County commissioners voted unanimously in August to place a sales tax measure on the November ballot that would fund a much-needed open land program for Garfield County. We want to thank the three commissioners for their thoughtful and detailed work on this important issue. After three years of meetings and more meetings, the local citizens group, The Garfield Legacy Project, and the commissioners forged a proposed program that is unique to Garfield County. The resulting ballot measure, 1A, if passed in the Nov. 6 election, creates a half-cent sales tax resulting in approximately $2 million annually for the protection of local open lands. The program would provide support to our agricultural economy, safeguard our rivers and streams, and enhance the recreation and trails we enjoy. Now is the time to take a forward approach to preserving our ranching heritage and open lands. Our growing tourism economy depends upon it We are very excited to talk about the program and to provide factual resources and pertinent information on the ballot measure. If you are interested in joining The Garfield Legacy Project, go to our website, garfieldlegacy.org, and find out more!
For organization meetings & meals, holiday/birthday/anniversary parties, neighborhood gatherings and family reunions. For more information contact: Judith at 285-9696 or Michelle at 285-7828
**
Mary Noone Garfield Legacy Project **Not valid on Valentine’s Day
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
Common Ground, Judi Gentilcore, Jim Klink, Jerry Mohrlang, David Boyd, Denise VanHoorelbeke, Karen Klink, Mary Anderson, Eric Sarno, Kelly Cyphers, M.E. Denomy, Rob Ferguson, Ashlynn Speakman, Jordan Scott, Tanner Zimmerman, Amber Scott, Kathy Germano, Keith Lammey, Sandy Getter, Mitzi Burkhart, Laurel Koning, Ann Galloway, Leona Anthony, Betsy Leonard, Carol Lybrook, Charlie Hornick, Bob Campbell, Lift-Up, Grand Valley Historical Society
GRAND VALLEY ECHO • Mid-September/Mid-October 2012, Page 3
G R A N D
VA L L E Y
H A P P E N I N G S
Grand Valley Quilt Show is at the Battlement Mesa Schoolhouse Sept. 29-30 will be able to vote for their favorite quilt. A Viewers Choice Award will be presented to the winner. The 2011 Viewers Choice will be on display. Community members have loaned their vintage quilts to the Sew and Sews. These will be on display in the Glover Cabin near the schoolhouse, and will be presented in a bed turning (when quilts are stacked on a bed, then turned back one at a time to reveal each quilt). The combination of beautiful quilts and two delightful, historical buildings should prove to be an exciting event that you wouldn't want to miss. – Judi Gentilcore, Grand Valley Sew and Sew Quilters
The sixth annual Grand Valley Quilt Show will be held the weekend of Sept. 29 from 10 a.m.-4 p.m. and Sept. 30 from 12-3 p.m. The show will be held at the Battlement Mesa Schoolhouse located at 7235 County Road 300 in Battlement Mesa at the Parachute exit 75. A $3 donation is suggested, which will benefit the quilt show’s co-sponsor, the Grand Valley Historical Society. The Grand Valley Sew and Sew Quilters project of the year has been a Round Robin. The pattern is Out on a Limb. These unique quilts, along with many other quilts, will show how talented and diverse the quilters are. All quilts are new and for display only. Quilt viewers
Community Conversations to begin Oct. 10
Community dances being held monthly at the Battlement Mesa Schoolhouse By Jim Klink, Grand Valley Historical Society For more than 50 years, the historic Battlement Mesa Schoolhouse served not only as a school, but also as the social and cultural center for the Battlement Mesa and Parachute area. In the evenings, and during the summer months, events ranging from weddings to pot luck suppers to dances occurred on a regular basis. Now local resident Susanne Rill, with the support of the Grand Valley Historical Society, hopes to see the schoolhouse play that role again. Susanne is holding a community dance once a month at the old schoolhouse from 8-10:30 p.m. on the third Saturday of the month. She is offering a dance class prior to the start of the dance, from 7-7:45 p.m. The first dance took place on Aug. 18 and was enjoyed by all who attended. The next dance is on Sept. 15. There is no charge for the dance or the class, although donations to help defray costs will gladly be accepted. For more information, contact Susanne Rill at 250-6262 or Judi Hayward at 285-9696.
Come chat with us over Coffee, Donuts or one of our breakfast items!
Join your neighbors, local business leaders and government representatives in Community Conversations, a series of conversations about our community sponsored by the local group Common Ground. The community, as we see it, is from Rulison to Parachute, Battlement Mesa, the Wallace Creek area and anyone interested in the area’s future. We plan to meet once each month to converse about a single subject important to our community. Presenters with varied views on the topic of the month will attend and assist with the discussion. We intend to arrive at conclusions, reach a consensus on actions to be taken, determine who is best to act, and to follow up on previous discussions and actions. Our initial meeting will be held at 7 p.m. on Oct. 10 at the Parachute Branch Library. At the first meeting we will identify at least 12 topics of interest to those attending and list them in priority for discussion over the next year. All topics are welcome. Battlement Mesa resident and community leader Lynn Shore will moderate the discussions and all topics are welcome. All area residents are encouraged to attend. “We hope to stimulate conversations in the community and to bring folks together in those areas where we can find common ground,” said Lynn. Everyone is invited. Please mark your calendar and please attend. Contact Lynn at 250-1030 or Jerry at 285-1167 with any questions.
– Jerry Mohrlang, Common Ground
All Homemade!
Tips and Topics on Tuesdays features senior safety on Sept. 18
Donuts including: Cake and Raised, Fritters, Cinnamon Rolls and Twists.
Cooked to order breakfast including: Pancakes, Omelets and French Toast
PARACHUTE
Homestyle Catering also available!
970-285-9697 7 days a week • 5 am - 12 pm 124 E. 1st St., Parachute
RIFLE
970-625-1705 Tues-Sat. • 5:30 am - 12 pm 112 W. 3rd St., Rifle
A vital, must-see senior safety program is being held on ways for seniors to avoid becoming victims of crime at 10 a.m. on Sept. 18 at the Valley Senior Center, 540 N. Parachute Ave. Tanni McGinnis, community relations deputy of the Garfield County Sheriff's Office, will explain and demonstrate techniques that criminals use against unsuspecting seniors. Situations discussed include door and phone soliciting, purse stealing, and parking lot attacks. She will demonstrate techniques to seniors on ways to prevent becoming a victim. Pre-planning methods to handle dangerous encounters and ways to look strong are just two techniques for appearing less appealing to criminals. People of all ages are welcome, and senior center membership is not required to attending Tips and Topics on Tuesday programs.
– Mitzi Burkhart, Valley Senior Center
Page 4, GRAND VALLEY ECHO • Mid-September/Mid-October 2012
G O GRAND VALLEY Your calendar for goings on in and around Parachute and Battlement Mesa Help our calendar grow; let us know. Send public event items to gve@crystalvalleyecho.com. Be sure to include the five Ws (who, what, when, why and where), contact info, cost and anything else readers need to know.
• Sept. 15: 3 p.m. Shotgun start for the Battle for the Cure Golf Tournament at the Battlement Mesa Golf Course. This is a charity tournament benefiting the Aspen affiliate of Susan J. Komen for breast cancer research. Entry fee is $25 per person. Contact 285-7274, events.rallyforthecure.com/battlementmesagolfclub.
• Sept. 15: 2-5 p.m. “Art for the Ages” art show is at Mesa Vista Assisted Living Residence, 73 Sipprelle Dr., Battlement, 285-1844. Refreshments served.
• Sept. 15: 7-7:45 p.m. free dance class; 8-10:30 free community dance. Come to the Battlement Mesa Schoolhouse to a monthly community dance. See story, page 3. Susanne, 250-6262, Judi, 2859696.
• Sept. 15: 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.
• Sept. 17: 1 p.m. Best books for teen readers with Trish Braby. Parachute Branch Library. 285-9870.
• Sept. 17: 2 p.m. Monday math madness. Grades 4-5. Parachute Branch Library. 285-9870.
• Sept. 18: 9 a.m. Learn Word computer classes at the Parachute Branch Library. Basic computer skills required. Reservations required. 285-9870. • Sept. 18: 10 a.m. Tips and Topics on Tuesdays. A vital must-see "Senior Safety" program on ways to avoid becoming a victim of crime will be held at the Senior Center, 540 N. Parachute Ave. • Sept. 18: 12-2 p.m. Ladies Who Do Lunch talk about S.J. Watson’s “Before I go to Sleep” at the Parachute Branch Library. 285-9870. • Sept. 18: 7 p.m. 12-2 p.m. Meet the author of “Antler Dust,” “Death on the Roan” and “Buried by the Road,” Mark Stevens. Tickets are free. Parachute Branch Library. 285-9870. • Sept. 20: 5-8 p.m. Grand Wine Affair fundraiser is at Grand River Hospital Conference Room, 501 Airport Rd., Rifle. Benefits Meals on Wheels. 6256423.
• Sept. 24: 3-5 p.m. Monday Anime Jeopardy part two for all teens of all ages at the Parachute Branch Library. 285-9870. • Sept. 24: 6 p.m. Paying for college workshop. Parents and students grades 8-12 are encouraged to attend. Parachute Branch Library. 285-9870. • Sept. 25: 9 a.m. Learn Word computer classes at the Parachute Branch Library. Basic computer skills required. Reservations required. 285-9870. • Sept. 26: 11:30 a.m. Village Artists members lunch at the Village Inn in Glenwood Springs, prior to visiting the Fall Art Festival at the Ramada Inn. • Sept. 26: 4-7 p.m. BLM open house regarding the draft resource management plan for oil and gas development in the Piceance Basin. Public invited to submit comments. BLM Colorado River Valley Field Office, 2300 River Frontage Road, Silt. Go to www.blm.gov/…oom/2012/august/blm_proposes_plan.html . • Sept. 27: 4-7 p.m. BLM open house regarding the draft resource management plan for oil and gas development in the Piceance Basin. Public invited to submit comments. BLM Clarion Inn, 755 Horizon Drive, Grand Junction. Go to www.blm.gov/…oom/2012/august/blm_proposes_plan.html . • Sept. 28: 7 p.m. Free screening of “Half the Sky,” a documentary filmed in 10 countries to show the oppression women face worldwide and those courageous enough to combat it, at the Clough Auditorium at CMC’s West Garfield Campus, 3695 Airport Rd., Rifle. Discussion and refreshments to follow film. 625-1871. • Sept. 29: 10 a.m. Second annual Battlement Mesa/Parachute Community Classic is at the Battlement Mesa Golf Course. Proceeds will go toward the new community park being planned next to the Grand Valley Middle School. 285-7274. • Sept. 29-30: The sixth annual Grand Valley Quilt Show is at the Battlement Mesa Schoolhouse, 7235 County Road 300, Battlement Mesa. Sept. 29 hours: 10 a.m.-4 p.m.; Sept. 30 hours: 12-3 p.m. A donation of $3/person benefits the Grand Valley Historical Society.
• Sept. 21: 9-11 a.m. Battlement Mesa Service Association Board of Directors meets at the Battlement Mesa Activity Center. 285-9432.
• Sept. 29: 5 p.m. Bluegrass and Chili Festival is at All Saints Episcopal Church, featuring Danny Agajanian and his bluegrass band. Tickets are $10 for adults and $4 for children under 12. 285-7908.
• Sept. 21: 6-9 p.m. Reel Readers read “Extremely Loud and Incredibly Close” and then watch the movie at the Parachute Branch Library. Don't have time for the book? Come anyway, always plenty of chatter and food. Dinner is planned so call ahead and see what you can bring. 285-9870.
• Oct. 5: 6-9 p.m. Garfield Clean Energy Innovation Awards featuring former Colorado Gov. Bill Ritter acknowledges individuals and businesses for their innovations in saving energy, at the Hotel Colorado, Glenwood. For tickets and more info, 704-9200, garfieldcleanenergy.org.
• Sept. 23: Last day of deer/elk archery season.
• Oct. 6: 5-9 p.m. Oktoberfest: Fun, food, barbecue,
beverages, live music and fireworks for the whole family in Cottonwood Park. BMSA, 285-9432. • Oct. 10: 7 p.m. Community Conversations bring community members together to talk about topics important to the Parachute/Battlement community; at the Parachute Branch Library. Area residents are welcome to come to this first meeting to identify 12 topics to discuss in the coming year. See story on page 3. Lynn, 250-1030, Jerry 285-1169. • Oct. 13-17: First season - separate limited elk. • Oct. 20: PEO Chapter IW’S Fall Fashion Show is at the Battlement Mesa Activity Center. $23/person includes brunch and show and benefits scholarships for local girls. Call Sandi Saxton, 285-2441, or buy tickets at the door.
• The second Tuesday of every month at 3:30 p.m. the Battlement Mesa Service Association’s Oil and Gas Committee meets at the Battlement Mesa Activity Center. • Grand Mesa Chorus rehearses every Tuesday from 6:30-9:30 p.m., at the Redlands United Methodist Church, 527 Village Way, Grand Junction. All women age 16 and older are welcome to audition. Call Shirley at 255-9419, grandmesachorus.org. • Neighborhood Watch meets the second Tuesday of the month at 7 p.m. at Parachute Town Hall, 222 Grand Valley Way, Parachute. 285-7630.
• The Battlement Mesa Activity Center has a variety of exercise classes for preschoolers to seniors. Call Anne, 285-9480.
• 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.
• Hospice of the Valley’s Grief and Loss Support Groups meet the second and fourth Mondays of each month at Bethel Chapel in Glenwood Springs from 8:30-10 a.m. and the first and third Monday evening of the month at Grand River Hospital in Rifle from 5-6:30 p.m. Sean, 927-6650, hchotv.org.
• 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.
• Every Monday from 12:45-4 p.m., Party Bridge is held at the Battlement Mesa Activity Center. All levels.
• The third Tuesday of every month at 9 a.m., the Battlement Mesa Service Association meets at the Battlement Mesa Activity Center.
ONGOING
• 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.
• Every Wednesday at 11:30 a.m., the Parachute Valley Senior Center hosts a luncheon prepared by the Rifle Senior Center. $2.50 for those over 60. Reservations taken Mondays from 9 a.m.-12 p.m.; call 285-7216. • The first and third Wednesday of every month at 3 p.m., the Battlement Mesa Architectural Committee meets at the Battlement Mesa Activity Center. Open to the public. 285-9432.
• The first Tuesday of every month at 6:30 p.m., the Grand Valley Citizens Alliance meets at the Rifle Branch Library community room. Leslie, 618-0890.
• Every 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.
• 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.
• Battlement Concerned Citizens meet the second and fourth Wednesdays of every month at 1:30 p.m. at the Battlement Mesa Activity Center to discuss issues of concern to the Battlement Mesa community. Open to the public. Dave, 285-2263 or Paul, 285-7791.
• Every Tuesday, a group plays pinochle at 1:30 p.m. at the Parachute Valley Senior Center. Call Cheryl at 285-9755 for information or to arrange a needed ride. The senior center is located at 540 N. Parachute Ave., Parachute.
• Common Ground meets the fourth Wednesday of the month at 3:30 p.m. at the Battlement Mesa Activity Center. The group is comprised of citizens from Parachute and Battlement Mesa who are committed to working together for a better community. All residents interested in contributing their time
101 CARDINAL WAY IN PARACHUTE, CO •
and energy for the betterment of Battlement and Parachute are encouraged to attend. • Every Thursday at 10 a.m. (except the first Thursday of the month), the Prayer Shawl Ministry meets at the Grand Valley United Methodist Church, 132 N. Parachute, Parachute. Call Sharon, 2852318, or the church, 285-9892, to join in. • Every Thursday at 4:30 p.m. through Sept. 27, the Battlement Mesa Couples Golf League season plays at the Battlement Mesa Golf Course, followed by an after-golf get-together at the Fairway Grill. Golf entry fee is $4. Contact John Constine, jscons@msn.com. • 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 garfieldcounty.com/oil-gas/energy-advisory-board.aspx, or contact Denice Brown at 625-5915. • The second Thursday of every month, One Moment meets, which is a support group for bereaved parents who have experienced pregnancy loss, stillbirth, or early infant loss. Meetings are led by Marcia Villarreal and Amanda Emerson-Burger at the Glenwood Insurance Agency, 1605 Grand Ave., Glenwood, from 6:30-8:30 p.m. 963-7110, 379-5387. • Seniors age 60 and older and disabled of any age may ride The Traveler, a wheelchair-accessible van with door-to-door service from Parachute to Glenwood Springs and to various towns and locations in between in Garfield County. Suggested donation is $8 round trip. The Traveler also travels from Parachute to Grand Junction the second Thursday of the month. Donation is $20 round trip. Call 48 hours in advance for reservations and information at 625-1366. • Every Friday from 9-9:30 a.m. “Community Connections” hosts interviews with community members on KSUN 103.9 FM. • Battlement Mesa Schoolhouse Community Dances are held on the third Saturday of every month. Come at 7 p.m. for a dance class; dance starts at 8 p.m. Free, though donations gratefully accepted. Susanne, 250-6262; Judi, 285-9696.
UPCOMING • Oct. 27: Kiwanis 24th annual food drive for LIFT UP. Kiwanis and friends will be out in the neighborhoods collecting non-perishable food items. All the food collected will be distributed to families experiencing food emergencies from LIFT UP’s food pantry. Dec. 14: Last day to submit comments regarding the BLM’s draft White River Resource Management Plan Oil and Gas Amendment. For more info go to www.blm.gov/…oom/2012/august/blm_proposes_plan.html .
285-6664
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GRAND VALLEY ECHO • Mid-September/Mid-October 2012, Page 5
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Commissioners approve new three-year gas extraction air quality study By Carrie Click, Echo editor The Garfield Board of County Commissioners (BOCC) approved a proposal presented on Aug. 20 for a three-year, Colorado State University (CSU) scientific study to gather air emissions data surrounding natural gas extraction operations in Garfield County. Garfield County requested a proposal on a new air emissions study from Colorado State to fill critical gaps that were identified in the county’s Battlement Mesa Health Impact Assessment (HIA) and Environmental Health Environmental and Health Monitoring Study Design reports. The HIA, which was produced by the Colorado School of Public Health, was discontinued last year before it was completed. Dr. Jeff Collett, a research expert in the fields of atmospheric chemistry and air quality monitoring at CSU, will lead a new team and work in collaboration with Air Resource Specialists, Inc., following the BOCC’s determination that a need exists to monitor emissions at well pad sites. The study will cost $1.76 million. A number of oil and gas companies operating in Garfield County have additionally pledged $800,000 to the study. The study will review the well development process from drilling to completion, including the use of hydraulic fracturing. Dr. Collett said that a variety of chemicals can be released to the atmosphere as part of well development activities including benzene, toluene, ethylbenzene and xylenes along with a wide variety of other volatile hydrocarbons. Together with methane, these compounds com-
prise a complex mix of volatile organic compounds. Other emissions of interest include nitrogen oxides, which can also be produced through local traffic and power generation activities. “Through our previous study efforts to quantify environmental and public health issues, Garfield County has identified energy industry air emission data gaps for our area and the nation as a whole,” said Kirby Wynn, Garfield County oil and gas liaison. “The…study can begin providing important well-pad air emissions data that are needed to understand, and then address, air quality issues relative to industrial activities in the county.” “Air emissions from natural gas operations are not well characterized, so our goal is to quantify emissions of chemical compounds during operations and characterize how these compounds are dispersed in the atmosphere,” said Dr. Collett, principal investigator on the project and chair of the atmospheric sciences department at Colorado State. His proposed study team includes Jay Ham, a professor in CSU’s Soil and Crop Sciences department, Joe Adlhoch, president of Air Resource Specialists Inc., and Mark Tigges, project manager of Air Resource Specialists. A diverse panel of air quality experts will advise the study team, including representatives of the US Environmental Protection Agency, the US Bureau of Land Management, the Colorado Department of Public Health and the Environment, industry scientists and the National Center for Atmospheric Research. Also assisting are CSU graduate students and postdoctoral researchers.
“In order to better understand air quality associated with oil and gas development, it is essential that we take this important next step of collecting high quality air quality data near oil and gas development activities,” said Paul Reaser, Garfield County environmental health manager. Collett and his team expect to provide periodic progress updates on the project for Garfield County officials and the public over the course of the proposed three-year study, but to protect the integrity of the study, data are not expected to be released prior to its completion in 2015.
BLM moves forward with oil shale research locally By David Boyd, Bureau of Land Management
The Bureau of Land Management (BLM) on Aug. 30 approved two new research, development and demonstration (RD&D) leases to encourage industry to develop and test technologies aimed at developing oil shale resources on a commercial scale. “Oil shale is a significant resource that could hold great potential, which is why we continue to support industry’s efforts to conduct the research, development, and demonstration that’s needed to develop technologies that are commercially and economically viable,” said Kent Walter, BLM field manager for the White River Field Office. “These leases will not only help test and advance critical technologies, but will also help answer important questions regarding water use, energy use, and impacts to land and wildlife.” The United States holds more than half the world’s oil shale, a fine-grained sedimentary rock containing organic matter from which petroleum products may be distilled. The largest known deposits of oil shale are in a 16,000-square-mile area of the Green River Formation in Colorado, Utah, and Wyoming. To date, technological and economic conditions have not combined to support a sustained commercial oil shale industry in the US. The proposed leases for ExxonMobil Exploration Company and Natural Soda Holdings, Inc., will allow the companies to test underground, or in situ, technologies that heat solid oil shale to convert it into recoverable liquid petroleum. The 160-acre leases are located in Rio Blanco County approximately 35 miles southwest of Meeker. The leases will be issued for 10-year terms and include provisions in each for a five-year extension. Each lease also allows for an additional 480 acres to be converted to a 20- year commercial lease, pending the results of the companies’ work, additional BLM review and meeting all requirements. Natural Soda Holdings mines sodium bicarbonate by injecting hot water underground to dissolve the baking soda in a solution that is brought to the surface. Its research proposal calls for using this solution mining technique to remove the sodium bicarbonate found with the oil shale and then injecting a heater into the ground to unlock the liquid petroleum from the oil shale. The Exxon Mobil Exploration Company proposes to fracture horizontally drilled wells, fill the fractures with an electrically conductive material, and then use electricity in the fractures to heat the oil shale into recoverable liquid petroleum. The proposals stem from the November 2009 call for nominations for oil shale RD&D leases. This 2009 “second” call followed an initial round of nominations in 2007 in which six RD&D leases were issued. In this current round of RD&D leases, the BLM considered applications that demonstrated new technologies not currently being tested as part of the initial round of RD&D leases. The two proposals were analyzed in an environmental assessment. The leases will not be issued until BLM completes a 30-day review period that follows the decision. Before beginning work on the ground, leaseholders would have nine months to submit for BLM approval a Plan of Development (POD), which details the proposed development operations. Leaseholders will also be required to obtain the necessary permits from State of Colorado, Rio Blanco County, and other federal agencies within 18 months of the BLM-approved POD and begin deployment of necessary infrastructure within 24 months of approval. The decision record, environmental assessment, plan of operations, map, and other related details can be viewed on the White website by going to River Field Office blm.gov/co/st/en/fo/wrfo/Oil_Shale_-_Round_2.html.
Page 6, GRAND VALLEY ECHO • Mid-September/Mid-October 2012
A R O U N D
T H E
VA L L E Y BIKE RODEO FUN
Embree Sorensen (age 3) of Battlement won a bike in the free drawing.
This summer’s Grand Valley Days featured a popular Bike Rodeo on July 28, where a number of children went home with brand new bikes. Coordinated by the Parachute Police Department, the department would like to thank all of the rodeo’s sponsors and volunteers who helped support this event. Sponsoring the Bike Rodeo were Toby’s Vacuum Truck Service, Parachute Auto Parts (NAPA), Parachute Radio Shack, H Dentistry, and WPX Energy. Also, thanks to volunteers Sean Giboo, Eamon Giboo, Renthia Monroe, Kirsten Mower, and Megan Henry.
Joline Gnatek says good-bye to Battlement Mesa
Echo staff report Longtime Battlement Mesa resident and Village Artist Joline Gnatek is on her way to California to be closer to one of her sons and his family. Joline is an avid artist, a passion she shared with her late husband Frank Gnatek, who passed on in 2010 from complications of lymphoma. Joline has been involved with the Mesa Vista Assisted Living Residence in Battlement Mesa since Frank’s passing. “I met Frank through friends in Massachusetts 38-plus years ago,” said Joline. “We moved to Battlement Mesa 18 years ago and have enjoyed living here very much. We were able to travel and have a home and many friends to return to.” The Glenwood Springs Center for the Arts is currently showing some of Frank’s artwork though October. Frank was color blind, and so he started off with pen and ink drawings. However, when he met Joline, she encouraged him to do watercolors and other mixed media. He loved to draw sketches of people, and paint watercolors of landscapes. Joline and Frank traveled throughout the country visiting friends and relatives while he constantly painted the people and scenery. He received many awards for his work, which is in collections throughout the US and Europe, Canada and Japan. “One of the most important parts of living here for me has been the experience of living at Mesa Vista and all the people there who have cared for me,” Joline said. “I want to thank everyone in the community who has helped me in my transition.”
PEO IW annual Fall Fashion Show scheduled on Oct. 20 By Karen Klink, PEO IW public relations The Philanthropic Educational Organization (PEO) Chapter IW is getting ready for their annual fundraiser – the Fall Fashion Show! This has been a huge success every year, and we anticipate it to be even better than before. There will be models of all ages showing off some fabulous fashions. This year’s fashion show will be held on Oct. 20 at the Battlement Mesa Activity Center. This year will be a little different, however. Doors will open at 10:30 a.m. and a brunch will start being served at 11 a.m. There will be three offerings throughout the show starting off with breads and muffins, then breakfast casseroles with a side of fruit, finishing up with some yummy desserts. Food will be served with a mimosa or a bloody Mary. Non-alcoholic beverages will also be available. Tickets are $23 and can be purchased through any PEO IW member, through Sandi Saxton at 285-2441, or at the door. Monies are raised so we can offer scholarships for local girls. This year we awarded two scholarships – Katilynn Keeling and Melea Sheridan. Both girls are graduates of Grand Valley High School. Katilynn is attending Colorado Mountain College, and is doing online classes while temporarily living in San Antonio, Texas. She is working on her associate’s degree in elementary education, wishing to become a teacher, “preferably teaching possibly anything through first through third grade,” she said. Melea is attending Colorado Mesa University (CMU) to get her bachelor’s degree in either radiology or kinesiology. She is leaning towards radiology as she can then start on an associate’s degree. She plans on continuing her education after CMU in order to get her physical therapy degree to work in a smaller hospital or a clinic. Please support our Fall Fashion Show and help us support more local girls and women in their educational endeavors.
GRAND VALLEY ECHO • Mid-September/Mid-October 2012, Page 7
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Time to get teams signed up for adult co-ed volleyball By Parachute/Battlement Mesa Park and Recreation District Executive Director Mary Anderson
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Programs and projects Fall Soccer: There is a U10 Girls team, a U10 Boys team and a U12 Girls team participating in fall soccer. Practices and games will Congratulations H & K Trucking, LLC: 2012 Co-ed Softball League last through October. Photo courtesy of Eric Sarno Tiny Tot Soccer: There are 45 young- champions. sters signed up for U6 and U8 soccer. Practices will be held at the west end of Cottonwood Park in Parachute on Tuesday and Thursday evenings. These youngsters are very fun to watch. Battlement Mesa/Parachute New Community Park: Plans are to begin work on a new community park that is located on approximately six acres below the Grand Valley Middle School. The second annual Community Classic Golf tournament will be held at the Battlement Mesa Golf Club on Sept. 29. All proceeds will go towards the creation of the new community park. If you would like to donate to the golf tournament you may call Mary Anderson at 285-0388 for details. This park will be built in stages and will be a unique place to recreate and enjoy when it is finished. Adult Coed Softball: The H and K Trucking-sponsored team won the league tournament. This team was led by Danny Medina. It was a great season and all sponsors and players are appreciated. Adult Co-ed Volleyball: Adults, if you are interested in having a fall co-ed adult volleyball league please let the Park and Recreation District know by Oct. 1. Last year the teams played on Tuesday nights at the Battlement Mesa Activity Center. Games were scheduled at 6:30 p.m. and 7:30 p.m. Players have to be 16 years old and older. Fee will be $225 per team or $45 per individual. Recommended roster size is from eight to 12 players. There must be at least three women and five or more players on the court or a minimum of two females and two males. We must have at least four teams paid in full to have a functional league and there is an eight-team minimum. Babysitting is provided for the little ones. This is always a fun program for the adults. Youth Girls Basketball: The Colorado River League is for girls in the third through sixth grades. Practices will be held in the evening two times a week with games on Saturdays. The gym of use to be decided. Fee is $55 to play with a $35 refundable uniform fee. Coaches needed. Please register by Sept. 28. Thirtieth annual Craft Fair: The fair will be held on Nov. 17 at the Grand Valley High School gymnasium with more than 130 vendors; some new vendors and many of the old favorites. The applications were sent out in June and there are more vendors applying than spaces available. That is always a good thing. We appreciate the high school allowing us to come into their facility and change it into a one-day shopping extravaganza. Lots of original, hand crafted items will be available. This is your opportunity to shop at home for gifts or for items for your home that are different. There will be home baked goods for sale as well. Skateboard Park: The skateboard park is located on Battlement Mesa at the Saddleback Recreation area near the elementary school. Parents please make you’re your children are not spray painting the skate elements. Please check on your children. Thank you.
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Page 8, GRAND VALLEY ECHO • Mid-September/Mid-October 2012
Chamber News Meet Stephen Cyphers, Parachute/Battlement Mesa Chamber of Commerce Board of Directors member By Kelly Cyphers, Echo contributor Kelly Cyphers is married to Stephen Cyphers. Here, she writes about her husband. Stephen Cyphers, a chamber board member, was born in Bryan, Texas to Phillip and Carrol Cyphers. He grew up in and around the Houston area and spent most of his time as a child there while his father worked as an attorney and his mother as a registered nurse. During his high school years, his family moved to South Padre Island where he helped run several small businesses with his parents. He played football for the Port Isabel Tarpons, graduated from Port Isabel High School and joined the Army. While stationed in Germany his first two years, Stephen served in the Infantry as a Bradley Team Leader for Operation Desert Storm in Iraq. Following the Iraq war, he moved to Fort Hood, Texas, where he served his remaining year as a
Bradley Gunner at the rank of Corporal. After an honorable discharge from the Army, Stephen settled in San Marcos, Texas, where he attended Texas State University, we got married and started a family. During those years, we had twin sons, Nathan and Taylor, now 17, and daughters Reagan, 16, and Devyn, 14. In 2002, the family moved to Katy, Texas, a suburb west of Houston and Stephen went to work for KBR/Halliburton as a defense contractor in Iraq. During this time, we welcomed our fifth child, a daughter, Sadie Anne, who is now 6. Following his years working in Iraq, Stephen moved his family to Battlement Mesa to work for Stallion Oilfield Services as an operations manager for the Rifle office. Stallion is an oilfield services com-
pany based out of Houston that services clients all over the country and offshore. The office in Rifle specifically provides support services and equipment for the energy industry for the Western Slope of Colorado and Utah. Its clients include Bill Barrett, Antero, Encana, American Shale Oil, Shell, Anadarko, QEP and Newfield. Stallion is committed to supporting all the communities in which it operates, which is why Stephen is proud to sit on the Parachute/Battlement Mesa Chamber of Commerce. His goals are simply to provide support however and wherever needed in the community to enhance the lives of the people who call Parachute/Battlement Mesa home. Some of his most favorite ways to support the community include, but are not limited to annual golf tournaments, spring/summer community events/cook-outs, Oktoberfest and the athletics departments at Grand Valley High School and Middle School and various sports/teams through Parachute/Battlement Mesa Park and Rec.
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.
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continued on page 18
WHY SHOP AT HOME? Reason #2 According to the website the350project.net, if just half the employed US population spent $50 each month in independently-owned businesses, their purchases would generate more than $42.6 billion in revenue.
GRAND VALLEY ECHO • Mid-September/Mid-October 2012, Page 9
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GRAND VALLEY ENERGY A monthly column by M.E. Denomy, CPA
Where have all the drill rigs gone?
If you have looked around lately, you may have noticed a calm after the storm. There are only a few rigs drilling on the mountainside. Within the last six months things have steadily slowed down in our neighborhood. It makes you wonder why. Actually, the bottom line is that most companies are now looking at trying to drill for oil and most of what we produce in our backyard is natural gas. In early September, the national price of oil is $96 per barrel and $2.68 per thousand cubic feet of gas. In most circles, the formula of six thousand cubic feet of gas is equivalent to one barrel of oil. So, six thousand cubic feet of gas is worth $16.08. Compare this to what a company can make in oil of $96 and you can see why most accountant types would tell the drillers to start looking for more oil. One oil well will produce far more money than one gas well right now, so it is the prudent thing to do. So, where have all those rigs gone? Anybody hear how low the unemployment rate is in North Dakota? Guess what? That is where all the drilling action is currently. The state of North Dakota is touting over 210 rigs drilling right now. The geologists are estimating upwards of 27 billion barrels of oil is able to be produced in North Dakota. One never knows if there will be even more finds as they continue to drill and expand the discoveries. I know of several folks in my neighborhood that have been sent to North Dakota to work. While all may be quiet on the western front right now, don’t worry. When the price of gas makes its comeback, so will the rigs
Mary Ellen Denomy, CPA, is a Battlement Mesa resident and an accredited petroleum accountant She has been nationally recognized as an expert in oil and gas issues. Mary Ellen is the immediate past president of the Rocky Mountain Chapter of the National Association of Royalty Owners. If you have questions, contact her at the naro-us.org website or through the Echo.
Grand Valley Fire Protection District Building A Better Community One Child At A Time
Firefighters visiting schools for Fire Safety Month in October By Grand Valley Deputy Fire Chief Rob Ferguson
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For the month of August 2012 the fire district responded to 43 calls for service (August 2011 was 59 calls): 9 fire incidents, 3 fire alarms, 3 brush fires/fire outside/trash/rubbish, 2 smoke or odor scares, 22 emergency medical calls, 3 vehicle crashes, 1 hazmat leak/spill, 3 public assists, 5 dispatched and cancelled enroute. From Jan 1, 20011 to August 31, 2011 call volume was at 383 calls for service. From Jan 1, 2012 to August 31, 2012 call volume has increased to 434 calls for service this is an approximately a 13 percent increase in calls for the fire district from last year. Training hours per crew: 193.5 Green Crew • 140.5 Black crew • 165.5 Red Crew District fire officers went to Fire Rescue International to work on Company Officer Leadership training. We now have three officers and one firefighter who have completed the three-year training program. The other officers will be completed by the end of this year. Remember that firefighters will be visiting schools in October for Fire Safety. The children will learn new fire safety topics and will bring them home to show parents what they have learned. Garfield County Fire Ban restrictions have been lifted. If you plan to have any kind of open burn please call the fire district to receive a burn permit. They are free; however we need some information from you in order to issue the permit. Grand Valley Fire Protection District covers a wide area of residential, commercial and some very remote areas with fire suppression, emergency medical services, fire prevention, public education and training in cardiac pulmonary resuscitation (CPR). The district covers roughly 321 square miles. This is I-70 from If you should mile marker 66.4 to mile marker 82.5, then all the way north to Rio have an Blanco County and south to Mesa County, including three-quarters emergency, of a square mile of Mesa County. If you should have any questions, comments or concerns please please call feel free to contact Deputy Fire Chief Rob Ferguson at 285-9119 or 911 as soon by e-mail at gvfpdops@sopris.net. as possible!
Page 10, GRAND VALLEY ECHO • Mid-September/Mid-October 2012
O U R
S C H O O L S
Times change at GVHS
GVHS News
By Ashlynn Speakman, GVHS
St John Community Center
By Jordan Scott, GVHS
Grand Valley High School has made a big change in the daily schedule in the 2012-2013 school year. This new school year comes with a four day school week, with eight hours and fifteen minutes packed in a total of seven classes. In the previous years, Grand Valley High School had a block schedule with four periods in one day, and the next day would be the next four classes totaling eight classes on a schedule. Principal Ryan Frink stated, “We are now at seven periods a day rather than a block schedule with red and black days. With seven periods a day, you get your content every day. With a block schedule you have the possibility of missing one class and not going back for a full week. Having every class every day prevents the students from falling behind as well as helping them multitask and do more every night.” Some students may have mixed opinions with the new school schedule. The new schedule comes with longer hours, more class time, and a greater amount of homework. The changes come with challenges, but also with improvement. Going to a seven class period schedule will help the students retain and remember the material learned in the classroom. The students in the district are not the only ones benefiting from the new schedule; the school also benefits by saving money.
This school year the district has seen many changes, from the addition of AP classes at the high school level to a four day school week throughout the district. Another change is the use of the building, formerly known as St John Elementary, as a community center. The community center came to be when Garfield County School District 16 was awarded a 21st Century grant to provide extended hour learning to grades 2-5. This is a dramatic change that will benefit the community tremendously. The intention of St John Community Center as stated by the director Amber Scott is, “To provide expanded learning opportunities to our district’s students, families and community members. Our hope is to make St John’s a place that gives back to the community.” St John Community Center is offering activities to elementary and middle school students as well as tutoring sessions for high schoolers on Mondays. The programming focuses on highly engaging, hands-on learning with activities such as photography, theater arts, forensic science, aerospace, and Lego-robotics. The addition of contact hours with students through St John Community Center will be beneficial by creating additional learning opportunities to students, providing a safe environment on Mondays while school is out, and by allowing students to become involved with the community.
From District No. 16 More from St John Community Center’s Amber Scott The goal for SJCC is to become a center that parents, students and the community may come to for extended learning, parenting classes, exercise classes, dance classes and sports programs. We will also be renting rooms for community functions or classes; the potential is unlimited. Garfield School District No. 16 received a 21st Century grant to operate the new St John Community Center (SJCC). This grant allowed us to run Camp FUEL, a summer school proSt John Elementary is transforming from a school to a commugram that served more than 90 stu- nity learning center on Sept. 17. Echo archive photo dents during a six-week period this summer. It will also help fund FUEL Academy and FUEL After School during the school year. SJCC will be providing extended learning for our students districtwide on Mondays, beginning Sept. 17. FUEL Academy will provide our second through fifth grade students hands-on extended learning opportunities, some of which Jordan Scott wrote about in her article on this page. {MAKE SURE THIS BOX IS ON THE SAME PAGE.} With the support of the Garfield County Sheriff’s Department, a Police Academy will be offered and the Grand Valley Fire Department will be offering a Firefighter Academy for our sixth through eighth grade students. More classes are also available. And Grand Valley High School will be offering study groups for their students and opportunities to mentor our district’s younger students. Should you have any questions or interest in the programs or in utilizing the building, call St John Community Center at 285-5704. – Amber Scott, Garfield 16 21st Century Learning Center Grant coordinator
Reaping what you sow By Tanner Zimmerman, GVHS
When asked, “what should we expect tonight?” regarding the first football game against the Meeker Cowboys, assistant coach and defensive coordinator for the Grand Valley High School football team Jeremy Tanner responded, “It’s time to be excited. We need to take this season one day at a time, but it’s time to put the months of hard work and preparing into action. If the players stay disciplined, good things are sure to come tonight." Sure enough, good things did come. However, a slow start postponed the end result of a 49-6 Cardinal win over the Cowboys. The Cowboys struck first on an eight-play scoring drive that kicked off the game for the Cowboys with a 6-0 lead over Grand Valley. A little stunned and uncertain, Grand Valley needed to settle in before they could put in motion this season’s goal of a league championship. With the jitters out of their system, the Cards bowed up and started playing disciplined football. Tanner’s prediction soon came true about being a disciplined team. Senior Trent Reidle returned a punt for a touchdown that sparked a scoring streak that did not stop. Senior Jr. Stagg proved to be a player on offense and defense racking up yards on hard-earned runs and picking off a Meeker pass. Senior Jake “Cobo” White got it done for the Cardinals on the ground with over 150 yards rushing and multiple TDs. Stephan “Chino” Padilla was the backbone of the defense and had crucial receptions at the tight-end position. Junior center and nose-guard Keanu Kamanawa would like to see some improvements over the next week. “We need to get our responsibilities down, play physical and get our heads right for next week’s game.” The Cardinals played the Paonia Eagles in the first home game of the season on Sept. 7. Come out this season and enjoy some Friday night lights action and support your team!
THIS PAGE SPONSORED BY:
GARFIELD COUNTY SCHOOL DISTRICT NO. 16 www.garcoschools.org
GRAND VALLEY ECHO • Mid-September/Mid-October 2012, Page 11
Mesa Vista News
Battlement Mesa Service Association
Mesa Vista resident rides the Canyon Swing!
Battlement Mesa’s city pride By Battlement Mesa Service Association (BMSA) President Keith Lammey
By Mesa Vista Assisted Living Residence Activity Director Kathy Germano Fall is in the air. We had a wonderful time visiting the Glenwood Caverns Adventure Park last month. Everyone at the park was very accommodating. One of our residents even went on the Canyon Swing! We were entertained and picnicked with the Church family on their beautiful ranch again on Sept. 4. The week of Sept. 9-15 we celebrated National Assisted Living Week. This year’s theme is “Art for the Ages.” Please join us in celebration on Sept. 15 from 2-5 p.m. We are hosting an art show featuring local artists and will be serving hors d’oeuvres and beverages for all to enjoy. Sept. 28 we will be viewing quilts from the fall Grand Valley Quilt Show at the Battlement Mesa Schoolhouse. The Sew and Sew Quilters are always so kind to accommodate our residents with a preview Celebrating September birthdays are Jim Lemarr on Sept. 4, Ruby Stout on Sept. 14 and Louise Meno on the 26th. Happy Birthday! Have a wonderful fall and we hope to see you at our art show. Mesa Vista Assisted Living Residence in Parachute/Battlement Mesa is part of the Senior Housing Options network of residences and apartments providing housing for older adults in Colorado.
In a previous column, I speculated that every community’s city pride fell somewhere on the “city pride scale” and that Battlement Mesa’s city pride was near the mid-point. We weren’t like Denver where it’s common for people to wear “I’d rather be in Denver” T-shirts. On the other hand, we weren’t one of the cities where residents say things like, “You ought to be glad you don’t have to live here.” Although I didn’t have any scientific evidence to support my conclusion, I thought that Battlement Mesa residents were just neutral on the city pride scale. Well, that was then, a year ago, and this is now. Based upon what I have seen recently, I think that Battlement Mesa’s city pride has rallied. Of course, I still don’t actually have any scientific proof, but I am convinced, we’re no longer neutral. July and August were great months for city pride. I first noticed the change on July 21 when the Grand Valley Fire Protection District held its 50th anniversary celebration. Sure, there was free lunch and that usually helps draw a crowd but people weren’t there just for the food. It was apparent that the Grand Valley Fire Protection District’s three communities – Battlement Mesa, Parachute and Rulison – are proud to have a modern, well equipped, well-trained and dedicated fire department. People had a chance to see three exceptionally well-staged demonstrations. The first was on fire safety, which dramatically showed how a house fire-protection sprinkler system saves lives. The second involved a mock fire rescue by firefighters and the department’s ladder truck, and the third demonstrated how firefighters and EMTs work together to rescue people who are trapped in automobile accidents. The demonstrations were impressive and the public loved them. City pride was strong on July 21. City pride was back on July 27 and 28 during Grand Valley Days. Citizens from Battlement Mesa, Parachute, Rulison and the rural area of western Garfield County turned out to support Grand Valley Days. I didn’t attend Friday night’s rodeo, but a large crowd showed up for the Saturday night rodeo and Saturday’s Grand Valley Days parade was great with lots of parade entries. Although the streets weren’t jam-packed, many spectators lined the streets. In fact, one person in attendance commented to me that the Grand Valley Days Parade was much better than the Steamboat Springs July Fourth parade. Following the parade, I visited the Morrisania Pie and Ice Cream Social at the Morrisania Community House. As the name suggests, this event included lots of great sweets but again, people weren’t there just for the food. They were there to socialize and support our community. I didn’t see any “I’d rather be in the Grand Valley” T-shirts, but city pride seemed quite prevalent. On Aug. 7, Battlement Mesa’s National Night Out was held in Battlement Plaza. This annual event is primarily funded by the Garfield County Sheriff’s Department but is also supported by many other departments and local groups. In fact, this year’s event was co-sponsored by the Battlement Mesa Service Association, which hosted learning opportunities in the BMSA Theater. Exhibitors included a diverse group ranging from the Grand Valley and Rifle Fire departments, the Garfield County Sheriff and Parachute Police departments, the Parachute/Battlement Mesa Park and Recreation District, Garfield County Road and Bridge, Colorado Department of Transportation, Colorado Bureau of Investigation, federal agencies such as the Forest Service and the Army, the St. Mary’s Blood Mobile vehicle and the air evac helicopter. In addition, social groups were also well represented including CARE, Community Counts, Common Ground, and many others. There was even a princess, Miss Colorado Junior Teen, along with several show cars and trucks. City pride or, more correctly, community pride seemed to be everywhere. It was refreshing. No, I don’t have any scientific proof that our city pride has moved up on the pride scale, but the circumstantial evidence is sure strong. I don’t know about you, but I think that it is time for me to start wearing my “I’d rather be in Battlement Mesa” T-shirt.
Page 12, GRAND VALLEY ECHO • Mid-September/Mid-October 2012
THANK YOU TO THE FOLLOWING SPONSORS: Encana, Battlement Mesa Partners, Battlement Mesa Service Association, Swallow Oil, Town of Parachute, and Alpine Bank.
GRAND VALLEY ECHO • Mid-September/Mid-October 2012, Page 13
The amazing tumbleweed needs to be stopped
George A. Cathey Jr. Nov. 11, 1924 – Aug. 18, 2012
By Sandy Getter, Echo contributor Editor’s note: Sandy Getter wrote the Echo to tell us that she has been walking in The Reserve and in Battlement Creek Village with her mission of pulling up as many thistle plants sprouting up near the road as she can. By pulling these plants up before they become tumbleweeds, Sandy hopes the numbers of tumbleweeds in the area will go down. Have you walked around your property lately? Do you see all types of weeds? The Russian thistle is the green prickly annual that dries up and becomes the dreaded tumbleweed, tumbling along, as the song says, depositing its seeds profusely. You can stop this from happening with just a few minutes of effort each week. Walk the perimeter of your property, especially in less well-tended areas. Also check rocky areas, including those along the street. When a thistle plant is little, (see first photo), you can just pull it up easily. By the time it gets the size of the second photo, you probably want to wear long sleeves and sturdy gloves when pulling. By the dry stage, in the third photo, you definitely want to cover your arms and hands before dealing with these weeds. In all cases, deposit the pulled plant into a trash bag, hold the bag shut and stomp on the weeds in order to compact them so more may be added to the bag. When finished, seal the bag tightly and throw it in the trash. The distinguishing feature of this thistle is their red striped stems. The thistle’s feathery branches belie its truly insidious nature, so don’t fall in love with this weed when it’s little. If you are diligent about pulling the new growth and getting rid of the dried tumbleweeds now stuck at the base of your other plants, next year you’ll have fewer thistles. You will be happier and your neighbors will be happy too.
Obituary
From the top: Small, young thistle plants can be pulled up easily. Use gloves when pulling up plants this size. Cover your arms and hands when dealing with the dried-up version of Russian thistle. Photos by Sandy Getter
George A. Cathey Jr. of Maryville, Tenn. and Battlement Mesa, passed away Aug. 18 in Maryville. He was 87. George received a B.S. from the University of Tennessee. He retired from General Electric Medical Systems after 40 years. He was of the Baptist faith and a member of the Rotary Club. George had the smiling eyes of Paul Newman, a firm handshake, and never met a stranger he didn’t like. He made many friends. He and his wife Dot would have celebrated 56 years of marriage in September. He loved playing golf and he was an avid fisherman. He was featured fishing in a video about Battlement Mesa that was done many years ago, and which a shorter version is still on the battlementmesacolorado.com website. George served on the Battlement Mesa Metro District board of directors, and he and Dot lived part-time in the Willow Creek Village of Battlement Mesa. George leaves many friends in the Battlement Mesa area. George was preceded in death by his parents, George and Hilda Cathey; son, John R. Cathey; brother, Billy Cathey; and sister, Judy Cathey Mitchell. Survivors include George’s wife, Dorothy “Dot” Cathey; daughters and sons-in-law, Jennifer and Dennis Geary of Wasilla, Alaska and Jody and Sam Curtis of Madisonville, Tenn.; granddaughter, Jessica Curtis; brother, Donald Cathey of Finger, Tenn.; nieces and nephews, Cathy and Ted Jones, Mike and Janet Mitchell, Steve G. Mitchell, and Donny and Michael Cathey. In lieu of flowers, donations may be sent to Colorado Boy’s Ranch Foundation, 28071 Highway 109, PO Box 681, La Junta, Colo., 81050. A private family burial was held in Salt Lake City, Utah. Smith Funeral & Cremation Service, in Maryville, Tenn. is handling arrangements.
CHECK US OUT! 9:30 AM to 1:30 PM
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CLARK’S GIVES BACK PROGRAM Sign up for this program and 1% of your purchases are donated to the local school district. Easy to sign up • No cost to you!
Clark’s will be matching Rifle’s City Market advertised prices for the entire month of September! WHY NOT SHOP LOCALLY?
Page 14, GRAND VALLEY ECHO • Mid-September/Mid-October 2012
N O N P R O F I T S Mt. Callahan Community Fund
The Valley Senior Center provides numerous opportunities for area seniors
The Colorado Heritage Group OWNER IS READY TO MOVE! MF home with sprinkler system, new sod, outbuilding and fenced yard. Recently updated interior. Battlement Mesa - $117,000
By Mitzi Burkhart, Valley Senior Center In this column, the Mt. Callahan Community Fund (MCCF) invites representatives of local nonprofits that MCCF has funded to write about their organizations. In this way, you can get to know these remarkable groups and how they benefit Parachute and Battlement Mesa. Seniors in Parachute and Battlement Mesa enjoy a variety activities and services at the Valley Senior Center, located at 540 N. Parachute Ave. An outdoor sign identifies the tan building that includes a large room with a kitchen that seats 120 people, a second room with couches for meetings and socializing, and a third room lined with book shelves for the Put and Take Library. Few people know that the Valley Senior Center building would have been a liquor store if not for the sudden shutdown of oil shale operations in the area in 1982. The oil companies wanted to give the building to an organization that would maintain it and use it to benefit the community. The building was first donated to the Valley Senior Housing Corp., which was interested in building housing for seniors. Since there wasn't interest in running a separate senior center, ownership was transferred to the Garfield County Housing Authority which leases the building to the Valley Senior Center. Completing the building’s interior required extensive work, including the installation of wall board, ceilings and flooring, the addition of two large restrooms, and painting the exterior an attractive color. Even before all improvements were complete, seniors started using the building. A plaque shows that Felix Sefcovic was the first president, serving from 1982 to 1986. Garfield County Senior Programs provides weekly lunches, The Traveler transportation service and various programs and special events that benefit seniors in the county. Its mission is to promote the independence, dignity, good health and nutritional well-being of seniors 60 and older in Garfield County as well as helping seniors and the disabled achieve independent lifestyles through increased mobility. Today, Parachute's Valley Senior Center is a self-sustaining, not-for-profit group of volunteers, offering a variety of scheduled activities and special events throughout the year. The organization receives no tax support and raises money for operating expenses through grants, donations, memberships, fundraisers and rentals. Annual memberships are $5 for those 55 and older with free lifetime membership for those 80 years of age and older. The highlight event at the center is the weekly Wednesday noon lunch that features generous portions of nutritious meals for a mere $2.50. This social time provides the chance to greet old friends and to make new ones. Announcements are made to the group during the lunch, updating community and senior events. Lunch reservations are required by the preceding Monday and may be made by calling 285-7216. Throughout the week, the center is used for various activities such as pinochle, which is played every Tuesday afternoon, and various wellness programs include speakers, exercise, crafts and refreshments. The center loans out a wide variety of donated medical equipment such as wheelchairs, walkers and many other items free to the public. Arrangement for selecting equipment can be made by phoning 285-9526. For seniors and people of any age with disabilities, The Traveler is a wheelchair-accessible van that provides transportation from home to towns up the valley as far as Glenwood Springs for a fee. A monthly trip is also available to Grand Junction. Call 625-1366 for details. The Valley Senior Center invites seniors who are new to the area and those who have been here for a while to visit during Wednesday lunches or other events. The more people involved, the more fun and the more ideas generated for future events. For general information, call 285-9006.
Sponsored by: Mac & Sara McCurdy
Sponsored by: Barbara Pavlin
Sponsored by: Mary Lee Mohrlang
Sponsored by: Sherry Johnson
THE PRICE IS RIGHT! Well maintained MF home on leased lot in Beautiful Battlement Mesa. Lot rent includes recreation center and trash removal. Battlement Mesa - $19,500 A CUT ABOVE THE REST! Enjoy the "good life" in this maintenance free beauty. One of the finest locations in Battlement Mesa with forever views. Battlement Mesa - $169,900 IMPECCABLE MF HOME ON QUIET CUL-DE-SAC Vinyl sided MF home with 1400 plus sq. ft., three bdrs, two baths, living, dining, eat-in kitchen. Battlement Mesa - $115,000 FIVE BEDROOMS- REALLY! Sunlit and view filled kitchen, dining and living room. Like new ranch with finished lower level. Battlement Mesa - $299,900 TOWNHOME FOR THOSE ON THE GO Main level - living, dining, kitchen, master. Lower level - family room, two bedrooms. Battlement Mesa - $199,000 QUIET PEACEFULL NEIGHBORHOOD Split bedroom plan , deck with privacy, kitchen island, tiled counters in this lovely townhome. Battlement Mesa - $110,000 CUSTOM QUALITY ROOMY RANCH Large fireplace accents living room, lots of deco shelves, sky-lights, solid oak doors. Battlement Mesa - $229,000 INDULGE AND UNWIND Extended pergola covered patio, cul-de-sac site, unobstructed views, finished garage, eat-in kitchen. Battlement Mesa - $139,900 BENEFITS OF TOWNHOME LIFE Two bedroom split plan plus study. Cabinet filled kitchen with eat-in nook. Care free living. Battlement Mesa - $124,500 START HOMEOWNERSHIP HERE MF home with lattice covered patio, eat in kitchen with a built in hutch, pass thru bar, new carpet. Battlement Mesa - $99,900
STUNNING SECLUDED SETTING Open flow living spaces, scenic vistas from master suite, cozy den and large living room. Battlement Mesa - $169,900 A CLASSIC CUSTOM HOME Hardwood floors, high ceilings, open sun filled loft and lovely grounds accent this elegant home. Battlement Mesa - $390,000 NO COVENANTS - NEAR RIFLE Upgrades throughout this lovely MF home. Textured drywall, gas fireplace, all bdrms have walk-in closets. Rifle - $139,900
LAND: PURCHASE THIS LOT NOW AND... Build your dream home later. The CC&R's will protect your investment. Water and sewer tap fees have been paid. Battlement Mesa - $45,000 EAGLES POINT SUBDIVISION This lot has several building sites and great location, walk to shopping and activity center. Battlement Mesa - $39,900 SITES TO SEE Enjoy Battlement Mesa amenities. A varity of building lots, water and sewer tap fees paid. Battlement Mesa starting at $71,000 IMAGINE THIS... Building your dream home on this flat view filled lot located on the 17th green of Battlement Mesa Golf Course. Battlement Mesa - $68,000 PICTURESQUE BUILDING LOT Site specific plans available, impact fees paid, soils survey complete. Battlement Mesa - $42,900 160 ACRES WITH WIDE OPEN VIEWS Unimproved acreage overlooking the town of De Beque. Partially fenced and borders some BLM, modular allowed. De Beque - $215,000 BUILD A HOME ON THE RANGE Domestic well in place, utilities to property line and 1500 sq. ft. all purpose shop completed. Parachute - $235,000
A STEP BACK IN TIME A 1900's school house dramatically updated/expanded. Chef's kitchen, home theater, wood floors, views. Rifle - $335,000
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-September/Mid-October 2012, Page 15
Dorothy and The Good Witch greet young and old at the showing of “The Wizard of Oz” By Laurel Koning, Echo contributor Although the skies forced the movie crew to hustle and move everything inside, the magical mood of Oz greeted all of the valiant attendees on Aug. 10 during the showing of “The Wizard of Oz” at the Battlement Mesa Activity Center. At this, the last movie screening of Movies Under the Stars, both Dorothy and The Good Witch Glinda were there to take pictures with all of the children – and even some adults. Dorothy (Allie Beasley) and The Good Witch Glinda (Sue Rill) were wonderful as children and adults posed with the two characters after receiving their magic wands. But the true magical moment was when one “little” Dorothy came face to face with the dressed-up character. Both froze as they “sized up” the reflection of the other Dorothy. “The Wizard of Oz” concluded another successful season of Movies Under the Stars. Many thanks to the following locals who were instrumental in helping to organize, schedule and coordinate the movies throughout the season: John and Laurel Koning, Jerry and Mary Lee Mohrlang, Larry and Anne Huber, Mary Anderson, Bob Campbell (and other Garfield County Auxiliary Sheriff staff), Autumn Sorensen, Joy Kemper and Amber Palcer. In addition, we were happy to have a number of various groups staffing our concession area. The money that they collected on popcorn, pop, etc. went toward their various fundraising efforts. Thanks – you all did a great job. Huge thanks to our sponsors who generously covered the licensing fees and the projectionist services: Kiwanis, the Parachute/Battlement Mesa Chamber of Commerce, H Dentistry, and the Battlement Mesa Service Association. Without their hefty support, we would not have been able to show the four movies. Special thanks for the generous use of the activity center, Alpine Bank’s popcorn popper, and WPX Energy for supplying a Porta Potty onsite for all four evenings. Also additional thanks to Sue Rill (who owns Sue’s different Store) for supplying the costumes for our two characters. Keep your eyes to the skies until we kick off our next season of the Movies Under the Stars.
www.bmac-co.org 970-285-9480 TRY ANY OF THESE CLASSES AND START ANYTIME. Call 285-9480 for more information
Zumba, Indoor Cycling, Aqua Fitness, Taekwon Do, Tiger Kung Fu, Total Body Fitness, Cardio Sculpt, Ballroom Dance, Yoga, Line Dance, Artilumma Kids Dance Program Sign up with a Personal Trainer to help reach your fitness goals.
Hours, class schedules and fees are on the website or call for more information Call for more information on these events, fitness classes at BMAC and hours of operation.
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
Recommendations for health maintenance By Ann Galloway, Certified Family Nurse Practitioner Who doesn’t want to be healthy? Staying healthy is important in order to live, work and play at our maximum potential. Health care in the United States is moving towards a health promotion and early disease detection model. Early detection leads to early treatment and most often to better health outcomes. The US Preventative Services Task Force (USPSTF) makes recommendations for health maintenance and disease prevention for healthy men and women age 18 and older. Here is a summary of the health maintenance and disease prevention recommendations. Next month, the screening recommendations for healthy men and women age 18 and older will be discussed. Information at healthfinder.gov/prevention. • Be physically active. Get at least 150 minutes per week of moderate intensity aerobic activity. Include muscle-strengthening exercises two days per week. • Eat healthy. Maintain a healthy weight by balancing calories taken in from food and drink with calories burned through activity. • Monitoring the body mass index (BMI) is one way to assess if your weight is healthy. Enter your height and weight into a BMI calculator. You can find a BMI calculator at nhlbisupport.com/bmi. • Interpretation of BMI: - BMI between 18.5 and 24.9 indicates normal weight - BMI between 25 and 30 indicates overweight. Talk to your health care provider about weight loss counseling and intervention. - BMI greater than 30 indicates obesity. Talk to your health care provider about weight loss counseling and intervention. • Waist-to-Hip Ratio (WHR) is another way to assess weight; this method describes distribution of subcutaneous and visceral adipose (fat) tissue. If an individual is predominantly muscular, this is a preferred method to assess weight. Divide the waist measurement by the hip measurement to get the ratio. - WHR less than .80 is optimal - WHR greater than .80 indicates greater risk for health complications. Individuals with more visceral fat are at an increased risk for cardiovascular disease and metabolic syndrome. • Be tobacco free. For smoking cession tips, go to smokefree.gov or call 800-784-8669. • If you drink, practice moderate alcohol intake. Women of all ages and men over the age of 65:
Moderate alcohol intake is one drink per day. Men younger than age 65: Moderate alcohol intake is two drinks per day. One standard drink = one 12 oz. bottle of beer or wine cooler or one 5 oz. glass of wine or 1.5 ounces of 80 proof distilled spirits Disease prevention measures: • Immunizations; for more information go to: cdc.gov/nip/adultimmsched/ - Get a flu shot every year. - Get shots for tetanus and whooping cough every five to 10 years - If 65 years or older, get a pneumonia vaccine shot. - If 60 years of older, get a shingles vaccine shot. Depending on health problems, you may need these vaccines at a younger age. Talk with your health care provider. • Aspirin: Men, if you are 45 years or older, ask your health care provider if you should take aspirin to prevent heart disease. Women, if you are 55 years or older, ask your health care provider if you should take aspirin to prevent heart disease. • Hormone replacement therapy for menopause symptoms: Talk to your health care provider if you need relief from menopause symptoms such as hot flashes, night sweats and vaginal dryness. Do not use estrogen to prevent heart disease or other diseases. • Breast cancer drugs: If your mother, sister or daughter has had breast cancer, talk to your health care providers about whether you should take medications to prevent breast cancer. Following these simple recommendations can lead to greater energy, strength and good health. Isn’t this what we all want for ourselves and our families? Talk to your health care provider soon for ways to help meet your health goals. You will be glad you did. For more information uspreventiveservicestaskforce.org and the Agency for Healthcare Research and Quality (AHRQ) website at ahrq.gov.
Ann Galloway works at the Grand River Student Health Center in Parachute.
Battlement Mesa Activity Center Tennis Club News
Ice Cream Social combined tennis and treats By Leona Anthony, BMAC Tennis Club
The Battlement Mesa Activity Center (BMAC) Tennis Club held an Ice Cream Social on the evening of Aug. 17, under the repaired and improved, tennis court lights. Fifteen members turned out and played eight-game rotations from 6 p.m. until well after dark. Plenty of fruit and a variety of ice cream treats were served and everyone had a good time. The tennis club women play Monday, Wednesday, and Friday mornings. Saturday mornings are open to all members. For more information about the tennis club’s events and play times, stop by the BMAC or contact Joy Kemper at 285-6545.
Page 16, GRAND VALLEY ECHO • Mid-September/Mid-October 2012
The Tooth of the Matter Back to School - Remember Good Oral Health Habits By Carol Lybrook, DDS As children across the valley start their school year, dentists are advising parents to encourage healthier snacking and drinking. According to the American Dental Association, children are consuming large amounts of soft drinks that could increase their risk for obesity and dental disease. As dentists, we are recommending that parents urge children to consume nutritious drinks in school and at home. Children ages 6 to 19 consume significantly more ounces of soft drinks each day than milk or juice. Teenage boys and girls are drinking twice as many soft drinks as milk and onethird of teenage boys drink at least three cans a day. Consumption of milk, the principle source of calcium in the typical American diet, decreases as soft drinks become a favorite choice for children. Sweetened drinks are the primary source of added sugar in the daily diet of children. Each 12-ounce serving of a carbonated, sweetened soft drink contains the equivalent of 10 teaspoons of sugar. Not only should parents be discouraging their children from drinking soda, but they can set a good example by choosing to drink healthier alternatives themselves. When teeth come in frequent contact with sweetened soft drinks and other sugar-containing substances, the risk of tooth decay, which is the most common childhood disease, is increased as is the potential for erosion of tooth enamel. Dentists recommend parents to encourage children to choose beverages that hydrate and contribute to good nutrition. The beverages we recommend for good oral health include: • Fruit Juice with no sweeteners • Low-fat and nonfat white or flavored milk • Vegetable juice • Water In promoting good health, parents are also encouraged to make dental exams a regular part of the back-to-school routine, including completion of all health examinations and necessary immunizations for the new school year. To learn more about a healthier school year, visit with your dentist today and take action for healthier lifestyles for our kids. Dr. Carol Lybrook and her husband, Dr. Scott Lybrook, operate Lybrook Dental Center in the Southgate Plaza in Parachute.
“Just Give Me Jesus” simulcast coming to Grace Bible Church
Anne Graham Lotz will be the keynote speaker at a simulcast for women that will be heard around the world and locally hosted by the ladies of Grace Bible Church in Battlement Mesa on Sept. 21-22. Anne’s father, the Rev. Dr. Billy Graham, has called her the best preacher in the family. Named by The New York Times as one of the five most influential evangelists of our generation, she has spoken around the globe. Anne, who is president of Angel Ministries, has appeared on such programs as Larry King Live, the Today Show, and 60 Minutes. She is a best-selling and awardwinning author. The “Just Give Me Jesus” revivals have been held in more than 30 cities and 12 different countries. The simulcast is free. Lunch and snacks will be provided. Seating will begin Sept. 21 at 6:30 p.m. Women can register for the simulcast by calling Grace Bible Church at 285-9862. – Charlie Hornick, Grace Bible Church
All Saints’ Church Bluegrass and Chili Festival is on Sept. 29 Once again, All Saints’ Church of Battlement Mesa is holding its annual Bluegrass and Chili Festival. The festival will take place on Sept. 29, from 5 to 7:30 p.m. As in the past several years, well-known bluegrass artist Danny Agajanian and his band will be playing everyone's favorite songs. Two kinds of chili will be served, red and white, as well as homemade coleslaw along with all of the usual condiments and desserts. There will be cold beverages and hot coffee. Tickets are $10 per adult and $4 for children 12 and under and may be purchased at the door. All Saints’ Church is located at 150 Sipprelle Dr. in Battlement Mesa. Call 2857908 for more information. – Dickie Calvert, All Saints’ Church
Nature at Home and Afield By Betsy Leonard
The River Runs Through It
The Colorado River is a highly diverse watercourse, moving from high mountains to flowing across deserts in nine states in the US and Mexico. About 25 million people and a myriad number of plants and animals depend on the water it carries. The river is a lifeline in arid regions, and life gathers at its banks. Humans use the water of the river for irrigation, industry, recreation and for their households. We are fortunate here in Battlement Mesa in that the river is practically in our backyards! We have a first-hand view of the Colorado River and can monitor the impacts of snowmelt. In fact, 95 percent of the water in the river may be traced to the mountains of Colorado, Wyoming, and Utah. Stream dynamics play an important role in our lives. Streams carve canyons, erode hills, and deposit sediment. Even in our dry Colorado River Basin the effects of water can be seen everywhere. In the north, glacial valleys lead out of high mountains. In the winter, the silence is often broken by the sound of rocks breaking under the stress of water freezing in the cracks and breaking boulders apart. Canyons form as water cuts into the bedrock in the central basin. All along the waterway, eroded materials are deposited. Effects of erosion on the Colorado River Basin can be seen in a series of gullies, canyons, and rivers spreading across the landscape like the veins of a leaf. Stream erosion and deposition are primarily controlled by velocity and discharge. Velocity is the speed at which water flows and is controlled by slope, channel shape and the composition of the channel. Discharge is the volume of water transported by the stream and this is set by the amount of precipitation into the system. A stream can flow quickly over a smooth surface, such as sand and other particles, but a rough surface, such as boulders, gravel and other course particles creates friction and slows velocity. A common place for sediment to deposit is on the inside of a river bend, but also at the upper end of lakes and reservoirs. The Colorado River has many dams and diversions that impact its flow. These dams and diversions are used for flood control, to store excess water for use in dry times, and to produce hydroelectric power. We can observe one of these diversions in DeBeque Canyon, on our way to Grand Junction. Dams usually produce a reservoir that provides multiple recreational opportunities. Diversions allow water in the river to be used for farms, cities, and for other purposes in areas far away from the river. With these changes, less sediment and nutrients are carried by the river. At a time when there were no dams on the Colorado, the river carried large amounts of organic and inorganic material, which provided food for aquatic organisms. Another effect of reduced sediment is that sand bars—relying on new sediment for renewal—are disappearing below the dams. When water is diverted from the river and used for agricultural, municipal or industrial purposes, not all of the water is used “consumptively; that is, the water is either absorbed by soil, transpired, evaporated, or incorporated into a product and thus not returned directly. Water that does return to the river after it has been applied to a use is called a return flow. Return flows are important to the Colorado because there are many demands on a limited supply of water. Return flows are important in maintaining the quantity of water in a river, but can affect the water quality also. All of us must monitor the quality of the river as so many people draw on this resource. Betsy Leonard is an environmental education specialist who lives in Parachute.
GRAND VALLEY ECHO • Mid-September/Mid-October 2012, Page 17
FA I T H
As I See It
• The Echo Worship Directory •
Who are America’s poor?
To be listed in The Echo Worship Directory, please contact gve@crystalvalleyecho.com to set up an account, there is a small monthly fee of $10.
By Pastor Charlie Hornick, Grace Bible Church I believe we ought to be shocked at the rising prejudice against the poor and homeless. Cities across America are passing laws making it illegal to help the homeless, prohibiting them from libraries and restrooms, and even preventing aid to shelters for the homeless. Some concerned citizens have even been arrested in cities for passing out sandwiches to the hungry. It’s time we took a closer look at the faces of America’s poor. Who are the homeless in the US? In our present economic conditions it is estimated that in the course of a year, more than one and a half million individuals will experience having no place to call home. And there are another half a million living in family units – consisting of a woman and two small children. Who are our poor? Forty-six million Americans (15 percent of the population) live below the federal poverty line. That includes 15 million children or 21 percent of the total population of children. The federal poverty line is the level of income at which half of one’s basic needs can be met. And a rising number below the poverty level are senior citizens. While some are in poverty due to their own drug and alcohol addictions, laziness, or an unwillingness to make the efforts to change, many who are poor are intelligent, diligent and hard-working. They live too close to the edge to opt for laziness or stupidity as they are pushed to the max mentally, physically and emotionally. They survive by working and working hard. Many go to strenuous jobs day after day that most of us could not tolerate. And yes, many of the homeless have a job, but the wages are not enough to provide a place to live. Some have been forced into poverty because of their own poor health or that of a family member. One major surgery or accident requiring hospitalization can wipe out a family’s savings and home equity. Many have lost their homes due to a crisis and simply are unable to catch up. Others were raised in communities that exposed them to destructive forces such as crime, gangs, incest, rape, violence and economic deprivation. Discrimination, intimidation, alienation, and exploitation are commonplace. Overcoming a damaged spirit takes more effort, time, and yes, at times, even money than they and those around them seem to be able to muster. While America is still the land of opportunity, a child who grows up without a father and a mother who is a crack addict will undoubtedly have a harder time succeeding. A child who lacks proper nutrition, basic health care and emotional support can often fall behind in the early formative years and has to struggle to catch up. There are many reasons why one may be poor. It is dangerous to label them all with a broad brush. Rather than judging them, we need to commit ourselves to assisting them through the tough times. I am grateful that in our community there are churches, civic leaders, school administrators, officers of the law, and more who know that from among the poor have come presidents and other leaders of the free world. We have many professionals and volunteers here committed to being a part of the solution. Each one among the poor has a story and each one matters. Each person we meet is somebody’s son or daughter. The last thing they need from any of us is to be made to feel like trash to be eliminated. I am reminded that Jesus, when he came to Earth, chose to associate with and even live among the poor, the homeless and the outcast. He mentioned some of them as heroes in his stories. He saw them as individuals with real dreams, hurts and needs. He saw that their poverty involved not just lack of food or material goods, but the crippling disease of being unwanted. So he loved them. And he took personally how the poor are treated. He stated in essence, “What you do them, you do to me.”
Grace Bible Church 755 Spencer Parkway P.O. Box 6248 Battlement Mesa 285-9862 Charlie Hornick, Pastor Jed Johnston, Family Life Pastor Chastity McGillivray, GBC Child Care Missionary Intern, Amy Hamilton Sunday Blessing Up for Church Broadcast 8 a.m. - 103.9 FM Sunday School: 9:30-10:15 a.m. Morning Worship: 10:30 a.m. Evening Service: 5:30 p.m.
All Saints' Episcopal Church 150 Sipprelle Dr. Battlement Mesa 285-7908 Pastor's mobile: 985-5797 The Reverend Edmond-Joseph Rivet, Priest-in-charge Website: allsaintsepiscopal.info Church e-mail: office@allsaintsepiscopal.info Pastor e-mail: frej@allsaintsepiscopal.info Sunday Sunday Eucharist: 10:30 a.m. Choir: 9:30 a.m. Children's Godly Play: 10 a.m. WOW: Worship On Wednesday Contemplative Eucharist: 6 p.m. Soup Social: 6:30 p.m. Episcopal Theology: 7 p.m. •••
Crown Peak Baptist Church 101 W. Battlement Parkway Parachute 285-7946 crownpeakbaptist.com Rick Van Vleet, Senior Pastor Dan LaRue, Associate Pastor Matt Loftin, Youth Pastor Brian Jarrett, Minister of Music Sunday Morning Worship – 8:30 a.m. & 11 a.m. Sunday Morning Bible Study for all ages – 9:45 a.m. (Children's Church offered during 11 a.m. service) Wed. Night Dinner 5:30 p.m. Wed. Night Programs 6:30 p.m. (Adult, Children & Youth Groups) Small groups meet throughout the week ... Visit our website for more information. 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.
Youth / Children’s Activities Grace Bible Church Child Care: Mon – Fri. Boy Scouts – Call for days/times Awana: Tuesdays 6:30pm (Sept. – April) High School Youth: Sun. 5:00-7:00 p.m. Middle School Youth: Wed. 7:00-8:30 p.m. *Bible Studies, Special Activities (Call for times and places) Website: grace-bible-church.com 24-Hour Prayer Line: 256-4693 •••
Grand Valley Christian Church Second Street & Parachute Avenue Parachute Richard Counts, Pastor 285-7597, 260-1080 e-mail: office@mygvcc.info Church Office 285-7597 Sunday worship 10:00 a.m. •••
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)
Website: shepherdofthemesa.org Bill Cornelius, Pastor 987-3093 Youth Directors: Kristy and Rory Roder, Brandon Downing
Worship: Sunday at 10 a.m. Bible Information Class: Monday at 7 p.m. Family Bible Study: Wednesday at 7 p.m. Location: Historic Battlement Mesa Schoolhouse on County Road 300 Lutheran Catechism: Wednesday at 3 p.m. Women’s Bible Study Group: Monday at 9:30 a.m. Location: 12 Rosewood Way In Home Bible Study throughout the week. Call for times and locations in your area.
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.
at Grand Valley Middle School 0364 Sipprelle Drive Parachute
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.
Pastor David Bartlett
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 Group twice a month at 7:00 p.m. Our church has been active in serving the area for 122 years! Come Join Us This Sunday!
Wellspring of Life Church
Sunday Service Time: 10 a.m. Youth and Children’s Sunday School 210-5795 210-5849 •••
Page 18, GRAND VALLEY ECHO • Mid-September/Mid-October 2012
Where’s Redstone? By Carrie Click, Echo editor
Want to take a beautiful drive through fall colors – and then get your wits scared out of you? Redstone has just the trick – or treat – for you. Back by popular demand, the Redstone Haunted Hay Rides are making a return appearance around Halloween. The Redstone Inn – which can be considered pretty scary in and of itself – has teamed up with Avalanche Outfitters and Aspen Carriage and Sleigh. You’ll be whisked along by a horse drawn carriage through what they describe as a “40-minute heart pounding ride.” If you want to bring the kids along, you can take them on a less scary twilight ride at 6 p.m. Otherwise, the hay rides leave at 7, 8 and 9 p.m. The rides will be running Oct. 13-14, 20-21, 27-28 and 30-31. There are few better ways to get sufficiently unnerved around Halloween than to head up to Redstone and get on a Haunted Hay Ride – if you dare. For ticket prices, more information and tickets, call the Redstone Inn at 963-2526. 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!
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.
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
Chamber News from page 8 Stephen is a proud member of the VFW, Ducks Unlimited and the NRA. He and his family attend Shepherd of the Mesa Lutheran Church in Battlement Mesa where Stephen is currently an elder. His hobbies include fishing, camping, hunting, playing golf, reading and watching fall football! He is honored to serve as a director for the Parachute/Battlement Mesa Chamber of Commerce and looks forward to serving the community here in the future. In March 2011, Stephen accepted the chamber’s Large Business of the Year Award on behalf of Stallion Oil Field Services. As always, the chamber is looking for businesses that would like to support our communities by becoming a member of the Parachute/Battlement Chamber of Commerce. For more information, call 285-0388.
redstonecolorado.com
Book your summer adventure by calling 963-1144 or (229) 221-4590
UNDER SPECIAL USE PERMIT FROM USFS OUTFITTER # 2463
We pack your game! Bolling Jones, Owner Randy Melton, Outfitter
970-963-1144
www.redstonestables.com avalancheoutfitters@gmail.com
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THE HEART OF REDSTONE WITH A UNIQUE SELECTION OF CENTERPIECES FOR YOUR HOME! REDSTONE CASTLE TOUR TICKETS AVAILABLE HERE! OPEN YEAR ROUND • OPEN DAILY
970-963-1769 225 Redstone Blvd. • Redstone
REDSTONE CASTLE TOURS 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) Tickets available at Tiffany of Redstone, and the Redstone General Store CASH OR CHECK ONLY
www.redstonecastle.us
GRAND VALLEY ECHO • Mid-September/Mid-October 2012, Page 19
THE ECHO CLASSIFIEDS FOR RENT: FOR RENT: Battlement Mesa - 3 bedroom (1 master with large walk-in closet), 2 bath upstairs, end-unit condo. Laundry room with washer/dryer, AC, balcony with closet, 1 car garage with storage room and closet. Rec Center dues included. $1,000/mo. rent; security deposit negotiable. NS, pets considered. Call 704-0373. FOR RENT: RIFLE - 3 bedroom, 2-1/2 bath Townhome in pleasant family neighborhood. Fenced yard with storage shed. All appliances including W/D and new refrigerator. N/S. $900 plus utilities. 6184930. FOR RENT: Open, airy 2-bedroom, 2-bath townhouse with den, two car garage, washer, dryer, new carpet and paint. Private location. $1,000 monthly, includes water, sewer and membership to the Battlement Mesa Activity Center 250-1030 or 260-7620 Available immediately. LSBL FOR SALE: FOR SALE: LAPTOPS FOR LESS. Dell and Toshiba. Loaded with great programs. Great for work or school! E-mail, banking, or just catching the daily news. 10 percent "back to school" discount on any laptop purchased before Aug. 15. Call 250-5154. FOR SALE : Mat cutter 55" X 15 " - This is a CARITHERS CLASSIC, $140. Joline Gnatek, 285-7642. 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. SERVICES: SERVICES: Computer desktop and laptop tune-up or repair services. 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 to Parachute/Battlement Mesa area. Call Dick at 250-5154.
Sheriff’s Auxiliary holds 12th annual tournament Aug. 19 By Sheriff's Auxiliary Commander Bob Campbell
The Garfield County Sheriff's Auxiliary is a nonprofit group of volunteers that assist the Garfield Sheriff's Office by patrolling the Battlement Mesa area and assisting with traffic control at events such as Grand Valley Days, the Garfield County Fair and at other events that ask for our help. The Sheriff Auxiliary's only fundraiser is the annual Scramble Golf Tournament. The Garfield County Sheriff’s Auxiliary held their 12th annual golf tournament at the Battlement Mesa Golf Course on Aug. 19. There were 19 foursomes and a shotgun start began at 8:30 a.m. After all of the players had finished they were treated to a delicious barbecue lunch, furnished by Alain Senac, at about 1:30 p.m. 103.9 FM The Law Officer’s trophy was won by the Sheriff’s Auxiliary team, consisting of Bob Campbell, Joe Cason, John Keller and Gary Leonard. This is a revolving trophy and it was BROADCASTING 24/7! won by the Parachute Police Department last Syndicated Radio Programs • Local Programming year. Teams competing for the trophy were the YOUR SOURCE FOR EMERGENCY WEATHER AND AMBER ALERTS Parachute Police Department, Silt Police KSUN IS CURRENTLY HOLDING ITS Department, two teams from the Sheriff’s office 2012 MEMBERSHIP DRIVE and the Sheriff’s Auxiliary. A huge thank you to those that have already joined. But to Trophies were given for low net, won by all others, it is certainly not too late! We count on your contributions to keep the radio station on the air and able to Jamey Calkins, Gordon Elliott, Wayne Morris, expand its program offerings. If you would like to join, please and Mike Stiers. Second low net was won by Bob call Floyd at 285-2246. We hope to reach our goal of $2500 Dills, Shilo Holbrook, Mike and JoAnne Silk. The by September 30th. Sheriff’s Auxiliary also won the trophy for third 2012 KSUN CHRISTMAS GALA low net. Trophies were given for closest to the Mark your calendars for our CHRISTMAS GALA. This year’s event pin on all par 3’s, longest drive for both men and will be held on Saturday, December 1st at the Activity Center. Our dinner/dance has been a great success, so plan on women. attending. Great night of entertainment and outstanding food! Berthod Motors of Glenwood Springs would have given a new Buick LaCrosse to the first perKSUn radio - THE VOICE OF THE son to get a hole in one on the 13th hole, but GRAND VALLEY HIGH SCHOOL CARDINALS. unfortunately there were no takers. BROADCASTING GAMES LIVE! This event is held every year in the latter part KSUN COMMUNITY RADIO of August so be on the lookout for it next year. It 398 Arroyo Drive, Battlement Mesa • 285-2246 may not be the biggest tournament of the year www.ksunradio.org but it is the most fun.
TUNE IN!
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 RESIDENTIAL • COMMERCIAL • MUNICIPAL • Electronic locate • Rooter work • Unclog lines and drains • RootX Treatments • Hydro-jet of lines/grease traps • Septic tank inspections • Camera/Video inspection of lines 2” to 36” CALL RICK or SCOTT
970-930-0124 P.O. BOX 1349 • RIFLE, CO 81650
285-9217 120 S. Columbine Ct. • Parachute
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
TO RUN YOUR AD IN THE GRAND VALLEY ECHO SERVICE DIRECTORY CALL 285-7634 TODAY!
Page 20, GRAND VALLEY ECHO • Mid-September/Mid-October 2012