Delta County Independent, Aug. 19, 2015 by Delta County Independent

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DELTA COUNTY

BACK TO SCHOOL

New teachers are committed to success in the classroom, A5-6 AUGUST 19, 2015 VOL. 132, NO. 33

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Kids head back to school today BY PAT SUNDERLAND Managing Editor

The 2015-16 school year is off and running, bringing the implementation of new K-12 math curriculum, a “magnet” school in the North Fork and implementation of a “breakfast after the bell” program at Lincoln Elementary School in Delta. “Today, the yellow busses will roll, the school bells will ring, and the 2015-2016 academic year will begin for about 4,800 students and about 600 staff in Delta County School District,” said superintendent Caryn Gibson. “Our schools have spent the past few months preparing for the first day, and we are looking forward to the new school year with enthusiasm and optimism. I am thrilled at the opportunity to work together with staff, students, families and our communities to help our students not only reach, but exceed their educational goals.” Gibson said the school district’s primary focus continues to be the academic performance of students, school safety, professional development and parent/community involvement. “Everything we do — from establishing a budget and operating a school nutrition program to providing instructional technology and building partnerships with the business community — directly influences student achievement. We are committed to doing everything we can for the children of Delta County Schools.” In addition to the math cur-

riculum, Delta County School District has revised the English language arts curriculum for all of the district’s traditional schools. Within the walls of Paonia Elementary School, the North Fork School for Integrated Studies embraces the Waldorf philosophy for families seeking additional options. Two classrooms are set aside for students in grades K-1-2 and 3-4. The two new NFSIS instructors, Lauren Ziccardi and Jenica Schevene, are among 40 new instructional staff members joining the school district this year. See pages A5-6 for photos and brief introductions to all 40 of the new teachers. At Lincoln Elementary School, students will be eating breakfast in their classrooms every morning. While breakfast is an option for students throughout the school district, the “breakfast after the bell” program at Lincoln is mandated by a federal law that’s now in its second year. Breakfast must be provided at no charge to all students enrolled in a public school where 70 percent or more students are eligible for free or reduced price lunches under the national school lunch program. Lincoln Elementary is at 74 percent free and reduced. Food services director Rhonda Vincent says the menu options will vary from those served in cafeterias elsewhere, simply because of the necessity for portability. Students in grades 3-5 will pass through the cafeteria, picking up a bagged breakfast SCHOOL TO A3

A sea of yellow

Row after row of bright yellow sunflowers catch the eye of motorists driving by the old Davis place on 5th Street just west of Delta. The farm was purchased last spring by Dan Varner, who put a total of 55 acres in sunflowers. He will harvest the sunflowers later this fall and extract the oil.

Gardner roundtable targets economic opportunities BY PAT SUNDERLAND Managing Editor

Through a series of economic roundtables across the state, U.S. Rep. Cory Gardner is gathering input from business and community leaders. Thoughts from those meetings will be compiled into a “white paper” that will help shape policy to reflect economic opportunity. “I recognize that in Colorado the only people who seem

Commissioners review audit, student numbers BY HANK LOHMEYER Staff Writer

Delta County’s conservative approach to financial management yielded dividends in 2014 with increasing fund balances and spending that came in below budget estimates. The commissioners received the official 2014 audit during a regular meeting session on Monday. The BoCC also had a discussion of school student enrollment. The county’s approach to finance is “really conservative,” said auditor Pete Blair. “That’s a good thing.” Blair reported the following financial results for the county in 2014: • Taking all of the county’s dozen or so governmental funds together, there was a cumulative increase in fund balances of approximately $900,000 in 2014 over 2013. • Compared with 2013, the county general fund increased by almost 10 percent, or some

INDEX

Accent ........................... A4 Activities ....................... A7 Back Page ................... D6 Church ........................... D4 Classifieds .................. D1-2 Editorial ......................... A2 Health & Fitness .........B6-8 Legals ............................ D3 North Fork Times ........B1-4 Obituaries ......................B5 School Zone ............... A5-6 Service Directory ........ D5 Sports .............................C6 Surface Creek News ...C1-5 TV Listings ..................C3-4

$300,000. • The county’s capital improvements fund increased by $600,000. (Sometimes capital spending accounts show increases because budgeted projects weren’t completed.) • Sales tax receipts for 2014 were “slightly up” from 2013. • Though revenues available to the county overall in 2014 were on par with those available in 2013, county departments spent about $300,000 less in 2014 than they did the year before. Blair said, “You guys did a really fantastic job. Management did a good job, too. You stayed within your budget.” In a separate discussion item, commissioners asked Blair, a member of the District 50 school board, about student population trends. Blair explained the district had budgeted for a loss of student enrollment slightly higher than 150 students, and it is now looking as if that will

Photo by Pat Sunderland

be close. “But we won’t really know until the official count comes in on Oct. 1,” Blair noted. He told the commissioners the district lost about 450 students in the previous four years. A loss of 150 this year would bring the total to 600 fewer students in the last five years. Student population peaked at about 5,250. The pupil counts are important because state funding for schools is based on the number of students in the district. Commissioners asked if the student population decline was from lost coal jobs. Blair commented that lost coal jobs and jobs lost also from coal mining support businesses accounted for the numbers. The school enrollment declines seem to be countywide and not just in one area. The number of students lost this year could be “the last big hit” before the economy begins coming back, Blair remarked.

to get a lot of attention are the people between Fort Collins and Pueblo,” he said at a roundtable in Delta last week. “You go to Denver and see the cranes on the skyline, and that’s great for them, but it hasn’t necessarily spread around to the rest of the state. We need economic opportunity in all parts of the state, not just along the Front Range.” Policies taking shape in the nation’s capital are indeed impacting Delta County, from the war on coal, to management of Forest Service and BLM lands, to a growing number of regulations that are seen as obstacles to business expansion and job creation. County commissioner Doug Atchley said Delta County must maintain a diverse economy that includes both agriculture and an energy portfolio that incorporates coal. “Coal cannot be just wiped out even with the current EPA onslaught,” he said. “We need probably around 30 percent to maintain the current electrical grid and we’re acting like we don’t need any of it.” On top of the job losses Delta County has already experienced, commissioner Mark Roeber said listening sessions about raising royalties could deal another blow to coal. “In the state of Colorado a committee reviews all the regulations that flow from the executive branch,” said State Rep. Yeulin Willett. “If they’re out of bounds, we can put a stop to it. We need that at the federal level.” In addition, he said, “We need the ability to bring a lawsuit, to get a temporary restraining order or injunction against executive branch overreach.”

Listening sessions target coal royalties

The U.S. Interior Department is holding a series of listening sessions targeting a recent proposal to raise royalty rates on leased federal coal. The first listening session was held in Golden Aug. 18. While some citizens are calling for a fair return from coal mining on public lands, industry representatives say coal producers already pay above market rates for federal royalties. “The system is working well and, as a result, royalties on federal coal produced in Colorado have returned hundreds of millions of dollars to federal coffers over the years,” said Stuart Sanderson, president of the Colorado Mining Association. “But mandates to shut down coal plants and end coal use have caused coal production in Colorado, the bulk of which takes place on federal leases, to decline by nearly half during the past 10 years. As a result, Colorado royalty payments have fallen by more than one third in recent years.” Funding for public schools and other government functions is being impacted, he said, and any increase in royalty rates would further harm Colorado’s economy.

Gardner agreed a sunset review process is needed, but by that time, businesses and industries have often expended a great deal of time and expense to respond to the regulations. County administrator Robbie LeValley said even when regulations are modified, the initial decision making is often incorporated into standards and guidelines with the same result. “There needs to be an extra step,” she said, referring specifically to the development of resource management plans for federal lands. Discussion of the economy moved to broadband, an issue of great importance to all of rural Colorado. Roundtable participants recognize the recent $5.2 million DOLA grant is a huge step forward for Delta-Montrose counties, but much work is left to be done. “There’s a long way to go, to get fiber to homes and to businesses,” said Mark Eckhart, a local businessman and DMEA board member. DMEA is providing access to its fiberoptic infrastructure, which will bring high speed Internet to a central location in participating communities. Full buildout could run $93 million, just in DMEA’s service territory. “We need it, we need it bad, but who’s going to pay for it?” Eckhart asked. “That’s a great place to look for leadership from you,” State Senator Kerry Donovan told Gardner. “Everyone outside of the I-25 corridor has similar dollar figures, and we’ve got a real tight purse to put in substantial infrastructure that varies from community to community. It’s appropriate ROUNDTABLE TO A3

Recruiting firm chosen

At a special meeting Aug. 11, Delta City Council reviewed three proposals from recruiting firms interested in assisting with the city manager search. Pending final approval at the regular council meeting Aug. 18, the city will engage Mercer Group of Carbondale. The service will cost $12,600, plus direct expenses not to exceed $2,500. Mercer Group has prepared a 95-day timeline that calls for the search to be launched Sept. 11. Application deadline is Oct. 5. Mercer Group will forward the leading candidates to the city council, and finalists will be named Oct. 27. Interviews would take place the week of Nov. 9. Mercer Group offers a 24-month guarantee following the date of placement.

A2 Wednesday, August 19, 2015

OPINION

LETTERS Tipton’s town hall fails to provide answers Dear Editor: On Aug 4, I attended a meeting in Delta hosting Rep. Scott Tipton. This letter addresses issues that arose during that meeting — Mr. Tipton’s vote on the Safe and Accurate Food Labeling Act and his evasive response to the question of whether he believed humans contributed to global climate change. I asked about his vote in favor of the Safe and Accurate Food Labeling Act, which bans states from requiring manufacturers to label foods that contain GMO ingredients and also bans their regulating the growing of GMOs. He gave an explanation about the bill that was completely wrong (even though he voted FOR it.) His response was that the bill allows states to regulate the labeling of GMOs rather than have the federal government do it. This is a totally backwards explanation of what the bill actually does. It is disturbing our congressman voted for something he did not understand! Many countries have banned GMOs. The World Health Organiza-

tion declared Roundup (Glyphosate) is a probable cause of cancer. The American Academy of Environmental Medicine (AAEM) has asked all physicians to prescribe diets without genetically modified (GM) foods to all patients. They called for a moratorium on GMOs, long-term independent studies, and labeling, stating, “Several animal studies indicate serious health risks associated with GM food, including infertility, immune problems, accelerated aging, insulin regulation, and changes in major organs and the gastrointestinal system. ...There is more than a casual association between GM foods and adverse health effects. There is causation.” This bill is for the financial benefit of Monsanto and biotech companies. It prioritizes their desires before our health. Both political parties cater to corporate desires while ignoring the majority will. Corporations are there to make money (with little morality or concern for our health or the environment). The tobacco industry, the biotech industry, and the

fossil fuel industry are willing to lie to us about what they know of the harmful effects of their products. It is past time for politicians to listen to us. If the politicians in office will not listen, it is time to make sure they are voted out, and some politicians who do listen are voted in. The DCI reported on Tipton’s reply to climate change. His reply was, “We should all do the best we can to keep our earth clean and we need to take advantage of technology.” This is an evasive answer to an important question. The fossil fuel industry has gone to great lengths to create confusion about this issue. There is scientific consensus that the burning of fossil fuels since the beginning of the Industrial Revolution has led to a steady increase in CO2 content of the atmosphere. Does Mr. Tipton believe that humans have contributed to global warming? We certainly don’t know from his response. We need to know this about any politican. Bernard and Adrianna Heideman Hotchkiss

Dr. Meilner and his staff are valued Dear Editor: I am writing to agree with Jane Poulos’ letter on the North Fork Medical Clinic in Paonia. I am a patient of Dr. Meilner, who is one doctor who doesn’t discriminate against chronic pain patients. He treats

Hospitals face uncertain times Dear Editor: Regardless of whether the reader is a consumer of the DCMH complex of health care or not, I would suggest that you take the time to find out who your representative to the DCMH is and request that they do the job to which they were elected. They seem to be in uninformed blissful ignorance currently. Dozens of hospitals in rural communities such as Delta have been forced to close because they cannot survive under the onerous demands of governmental interference and regulations. It would be a tragedy for that to happen here. Don N. Ridgway, M.D. Paonia

Embrace change Dear Editor: The one constant in human life is change. Since being told, several times in one night, to go back to where I’m from, I’m so confused. Do I go back to the city where I was born, to the town where I was raised, to my now deceased husband’s first job, to the town where my children were raised, to where I lived overseas, or do I stay here? Enough of the go back to where you came from. Realize change is always going to happen. Barb Heck Paonia

you with respect and he cares deeply for his many patients. I was without a doctor for eight months because I have chronic pain. There is no doctor in the city of Delta who would take me as a patient. I went to Dr. Meilner and he is great. Sue, his nurse, and his employees are the friendliest people; they treat everyone like they matter. Dr. Meilner and his office are a godsend for many, many people. When the hospital took over management of the North Fork clinic, they got an excellent medical management team in

there. They truly don’t know what they are losing now since they are pulling out on the deal they made with the clinic. To me, they are running this like a business instead of a doctor and patient establishment. We are not dollar bills, we are people. I urge the hospital to reconsider. A lot of people depend on the North Fork clinic, its doctor and staff. I pay to have a person drive me from Delta to Paonia to see Dr. Meilner — that is how much Dr. Meilner and his staff mean to me. Mischel Carver Delta

Options for North Fork students Dear Editor: North Fork School of Integrated Studies (NFSIS) would like to thank the DCI for the front page coverage of the magnet school that is beginning this year in Paonia. It is quite a testament to our district board that they have heard the educational needs of folks in the North Fork Valley and responded with inclusion. Parents who have enrolled in the new program are amazed and grateful that there are several choices in our small valley. Some parents have already moved to the area specifically to enroll in the NFSIS pro-

gram. The school shares space in the Paonia Elementary School building and is also fortunate to have Mr. Cox as principal who has been a great help in administering the new school. Classrooms are ready and teachers Jenica Schevene and Lauren Ziccardi have spent the summer preparing for their students. Registration for K-4 is ongoing. Parents are invited to tour the classes and meet the teachers. Thanks to Kurt Clay who generously investigated possibilities for making NFSIS possible. Thesa Callinicos Hotchkiss

Thanks for another amazing fair Dear Editor: Here we are again at the end of another very successful Delta County Fair. The fair was held at the Delta County Fairgrounds in Hotchkiss. So many people from the local communities get involved and as usual it was a lot of fun for everyone. There were vendors, games, rodeo events, motocross, tractor pull and concert held at the fair. But this didn’t come

KUDOS Little Britches support appreciated Dear Editor: The Surface Creek Valley Lions Club would like to thank those who helped make this year’s Little Britches rodeo, sponsored by the SCVLC, another successful event. A special thank you to the parade participants, the judges, the parade organizers and the volunteers, including those who came from Delta and Grand Junction, who helped at the Lions Club booth in the park. Your help and support were greatly appreciated. We thank everyone in the community who supported this year’s event.

easy. Many sponsors and donations were needed. The money and time that was donated went to all the things that made the fair as amazing as it was. It helped with ribbons, grand champion awards, animal pen maintenance, extracurricular events and the rodeo. So thank you sponsors, 4-H clubs and the community in general who helped make it all possible. Thank you to everyone who helped with making the market sale such a success. These kids worked so hard sacrificing precious days of their summer to get where they are now. Congratulations to the 201516 Delta County Fair royalty. Great job ladies. So thanks again to everyone who participated in making the fair a reality and best of luck to those of you who are headed to state fair. Skyler Sakala Reporter Prairie Rangers 4-H Club

Delta County Independent

Senator welcomes thoughts on coal, the economy Dear Editor: One of the many pleasures of serving as state senator is gaining a deeper understanding about the communities that make up our unique part of the state. Last week, I had the opportunity to tour West Elk mine. After a nice lunch with the staff, an informative presentation by Jim Miller, general manager of West Elk, and safety training it was time to go. Jim and John Poulos, senior mining engineer, led our tour and introduced me to the long wall. This impressive machine was the first of many stops that gave me a firsthand look at the mine and how

it operates. While I certainly enjoyed the opportunity to see the inner workings of the mine, I most enjoyed hearing the stories and challenges faced by the folks who work there. From a father of two who left his job in order to join West Elk to put his kids through college, to the numerous people who spoke of their careers in decades instead of years, it’s not difficult to get a sense of how central this mine is to our community. Towns like Paonia, Crawford, Hotchkiss and Somerset rely on a strong energy economy to make sure that dinner is on the table

every night and the bills get paid every month. I hope you’ll not only share your thoughts with me regarding the coal industry but also how we can diversify our economies to make sure future generations can live and thrive in our beautiful area of the state. Touring this mine was a tremendous opportunity to be better equipped in the next legislative session. Thank you for sharing your concerns and your community with me — it was a pleasure. State Senator Kerry Donovan Wolcott kerry.donovan. senate@state.co.us

A grateful and heartfelt thank you Dear Editor: The families we serve and the staff and board of Haven House wish to express our deep appreciation to all who helped us purchase the property formerly known as the dorm for our transitional housing and child development programs. In early May Haven House was notified that the property we were leasing had been sold and that we had 15 days to match the cash offer of $345,000 or face eviction. Eviction meant that Haven House might have to close, permanently. Fortunately, thanks to the support of the news media, the many who were praying for us and the many persons in Montrose, Delta, Ouray and Mesa counties who donated and/or provided bridge loans, we were able to raise the funds needed to buy the property, with a day or two to spare. Specifically we want to thank: • God for bringing together all of the details in a timely manner. • The prayer chains and prayer warriors. • Pat Sunderland and the Delta County Independent for its news coverage that helped attract support needed to purchase the property. • Katharhynn Heidel-

berg and other writers at the Montrose Press for their step-by-step coverage and drawing attention to our desperate situation. • Caitlin Switzer and The Montrose Mirror whose timely article helped push us over the top. • The persons who collectively provided bridge loans of $220,000. • The two churches and many individuals that donated the remainder of the funds needed. • The news media in Grand Junction, Ouray and Telluride for their coverage of our situation. The purchase of the property means that our future is secure, that we will be able to continue to help families and individuals get back into permanent housing on a path to self-sufficiency and help their children achieve higher goals. Now that we can look forward to our future with confidence, we will continue to strengthen our programs to serve those in need. Another priority is to receive grants to retire the bridge loans and raise funds for capital improvements. Thanks again to all of you that made this possible. For more information about Haven House visit our website at www.haven

househomeless.org or call Lillian or Larry Fredericksen at 626-5677. Larry Fredericksen On behalf of Haven House Transitional Living

Town of Paonia may have more important items to consider Dear Editor: I believe I heard through the grapevine that the mayor of Paonia engaged in a river trip with his family and others canoeing from Delta down to Whitewater this month. Can his trip be interpreted as his endorsement of BLM recreation plans? Did he get permission from the Paonia trustees to take this trip? Shouldn’t the trustees develop a policy on this matter and ask the town manager to research and develop an approach before this outrageous and impertinent use of office happens again ... or are there more important things that the town should turn its attention to? Dave Knutson Paonia

Law enforcement blotter

From the Delta a previous offender and third degree assault. Police Department: Aug. 14: Jennifer L. Davis, 34, Aug. 10: Angel B. Rodriguez, of Delta was issued a tick19, of Delta was arrested et for alleged theft. Citations: Seven tickand jailed on a warrant ets for traffic violations with a $300 bond. Aurelio E. Arias, 22, of were issued this week, Delta was issued a ticket three for speeding. Please remember: All for alleged unsafe backing after being involved in a criminal charges are two vehicle crash in the merely an accusation 900 block of Vine Street. and the defendant is preNo injuries were reported. sumed innocent until or Both vehicles were driven unless proven guilty. from the scene. From the Delta Aug. 11: Pamela J. Anderson, County Sheriff’s Office 35, of Austin was arrested (partial list): and jailed on a warrant Aug. 10: A resident of Happy with a $250 bond. Jason M. Doering, 40, Hollow Road complained of Delta was issued a tick- about shots being fired et for alleged third degree in the neighborhood. She believed one of the shots assault. James A. Benjamin, 34, hit the house. A woman living on of Delta was issued a tickPark Road, et on 8/12/15 for alleged Cactus reckless driving, drove Cedaredge, suspected a motor vehicle with driver neighbor of shooting her license under suspension, cat. The cat survived. failed to remain at the Aug. 11: Two male teenagers scene of an accident and seatbelt violation after ran away from Gateway being involved in a single Youth Services south of vehicle crash on North Delta. Both males were Delta bridge. The crash later apprehended, and resulted in injuries and one was transferred to the vehicle was towed Grand Mesa Youth Services. from the scene. Deputies were asked Aug. 12: Robert J. Valdez, 56, of to check on a dog that had Delta was arrested and been chained to a tree in jailed on a warrant with the Cedaredge area for three days. no bond. Larry A. Christian, 63, Aug. 12: Sheriff ’s deputies of Delta was arrested and jailed on a warrant with a assisted the Colorado State Patrol with an $1,000 bond. accident on Highway 50 Aug. 13: Weeden Travis March- about 10 miles northwest banks, 41, of Delta was of Delta. CSP Trooper arrested and jailed for Evan Hillings reports vehicles were alleged third degree three involved in the incident, assault. Mikel E. Sims, 54, of which occurred at around Delta was arrested and 11 a.m. All of the drivers jailed for alleged menac- escaped serious injury. ing, possessing a danger- Paul Hassell, 26, of Delta ous or illegal weapon, County was charged with possession of a weapon by reckless driving, due to

his high rate of speed. Marki Hocking, also eastbound on Highway 50, was charged with careless driving. Although her vehicle did not make contact, she was also believed to be exceeding the speed limit. A third eastbound vehicle, driven by John Higgins, was hit by Hassell when he changed lanes. Higgins was not charged. Aug. 13: The theft of solar panels was reported from a shed on Long Gulch Road near Crawford. Aug. 14: A homeowner on Black Bridge Road, Paonia, reportedly shot a neighbor’s dog after the dog attacked his goats. Sheriff ’s deputies are attempting to contact the owner of the dog, which was reportedly involved in a similar incident a year ago. Aug. 16: A county resident complained of trespassing chickens. At about 2 p.m., Austin Walker of Paonia reportedly drove off the side of the road at 3700 Road and Highway 133 and his vehicle wound up in a ditch. Walker was not injured and the airbags did not deploy. The Colorado State Patrol handled the investigation.

DELTA COUNTY

INDEPENDENT DELTA COUNTY INDEPENDENT (UPS 152-700) is published weekly on Wednesdays at 401 Meeker St., Delta, CO 81416. Second class postage paid at DELTA, CO. POSTMASTER: Send address changes to: DELTA COUNTY INDEPENDENT, PO BOX 809, DELTA, CO 81416 401 Meeker St. Delta, CO 81416 (970) 874-4421

LOCAL NEWS

Delta County Independent

Wednesday, August 19, 2015

County looks at its emergency response BY HANK LOHMEYER Staff Writer

Matters of emergency preparedness and management occupied the Board of County Commissioners Monday at its regular meeting. Local government staff has reported anecdotally that federal agencies are heightening funding priorities for emergency preparedness, though there were no federal funding initiatives noted in the BoCC’s actions Monday. The BoCC approved a mutual aid agreement with Mesa County. The agreement stipulates that either party to the agreement may request the aid of the other for the purpose of “assisting in the controlling or combating of a disaster, whether manmade or naturally occurring.”

Photo by Randy Sunderland

Riding in style

Carriage rides were a popular activity at the Downtown DeltaFest Thursday, Aug. 13. Holly Piatek, a Wells Fargo staff member and chamber board member, took riders up and down Main Street, which was closed for the event. The Delta Area Chamber of Commerce has one more DeltaFest planned, on Sept. 10. Vendors interested in being part of the event can contact the chamber at 874-8616.

County prepares to begin budget work BY HANK LOHMEYER Staff Writer

The county’s first budget meeting for making preparations on its 2016 spending plan is scheduled for tomorrow, Thursday, Aug. 20. Requests are coming in to the county for funding support from various organizations. On Monday, commissioners heard a request from the Delta Conservation District of $10,000. The money, if approved as a similar request was last year, will be used to hire DCD staff to aid in completing NRCS-funded projects. Delta Conservation board president Bill Cleary told the commissioners that having the

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employee will help in preventing a backlog of NRCS projects from building up in the local area. That will help keep the flow of on-farm improvements funds from the federal government to farmers from slowing down. Pressure irrigation projects in the North Fork area have been receiving attention. Cleary said that soils health projects are a growing priority. In other business at its Aug. 17 regular meeting, the BoCC dealt with the following matters: • The commissioners appointed Judy Briscoe to a position on the county library district board representing the Paonia area. • A sketch plan was approved for the Guadarrama subdivision, a split of nine acres into two parcels of 1.5 acres and 7.5 acres. The property

is located off of Rhapsody Road above Cedaredge. • County treasurer Lisa Tafoya reported total write-offs for uncollectable property taxes and interest at $2,440.97. The majority of the write-off amounts were accounted for by 16 mobile homes that had been removed or destroyed. • A beer license was approved for the Hotchkiss Elks’ annual picnic at the county fairgrounds. • The BoCC signed an agreement that extends its use of the Hulteen gravel pit. The agreement is a phase 4 extension of the pact with no changes other than the price of gravel, commissioners noted. The price the county will pay for unprocessed gravel that has been excavated and processed or utilized by the county is $1.10 per ton.

Roundtable FROM PAGE A1 for government to play a role — it’s a place where we can make a difference because it’s so important.” Gardner reminded participants of the $100 million awarded to EagleNet to provide Internet access to underserved rural areas. “The first customers were Denver Museum of Natural History and the Cherry Creek School District ... sometimes the government solution doesn’t actually address the issue.” Doug Atchley referred to Paonia business owners who drive to Glenwood Springs to upload large documents, while Jason Cleckler, hospital CEO, talked about the lack of connectivity in clinics just a quarter mile from the hospital. The Affordable Care Act mandated hospitals utilize electronic medical

records or be penalized, but outlying clinics do not have the connectivity to make the system work efficiently. The slowdown affects the number of patients that can be seen by a physician. “It takes 30 minutes to an hour to download a CAT scan that a physician in the Denver metro area could do on a cell phone in a matter of seconds,” Cleckler said. Cleckler also told Gardner about the “looming crisis” of Medicaid expansion in Colorado. Three years ago, the hospital’s payer mix was 9 percent Medicaid; now it’s up to 25 percent. Because of the low reimbursement rate, many physicians limit the number of Medicaid patients they will accept, so even though more people have insurance, it’s questionable whether access has improved.

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Types of emergencies that may be the cause of a request for aid under the pact include law enforcement, fire, emergency medical, public health, or public works incidents. In a separate matter, commissioners also approved and signed a memorandum of understanding (MOU) which stipulates use of facilities at Delta County Memorial Hospital as an emergency operations center by the Delta County Office of Emergency Management. Under the agreement, the DCMH oncology building could be used as a designated emergency operation center if needed. The Oncology Center may also be tasked for use in emergency train-

School FROM PAGE A1 to take to their classrooms. Breakfast will be transported to students in grades K-2, placed on trays awaiting the students’ arrival. While breakfast will be prepared for every student, there is no requirement they participate. Working with Jennifer Magner, the new principal at LES, the district decided to add 10 minutes to the school day to avoid impacting instructional time. Because the program is new to students, teachers and lunchroom staff, some “tweaking” may be needed down the line. “We’ll review the program after four to six weeks, after a routine has been established,” Vincent said. Participating schools are determined at the Oct. 1 student count, Vincent added. At that time, additional schools may be identified for the “breakfast after the bell” nutrition program next school year. Both BELA preschool and Garnet Mesa Elementary are close to the 70 percent level. School administrators will also be watching enrollment closely. An anticipated decline of 150 students was built into the 2015-16 budget. Elementary, middle and high schools have a good idea of how many new students have registered; less clear is the number of students who have moved out of the area and have yet to request transcripts. “The first day of school is an extremely exciting time for all of us,” Gibson said. “We anticipate a year that will challenge students and give them many opportunities to make their community proud. Working together, we can move Delta County Schools forward and make 2015-2016 our best year yet.”

ing exercises, for preparedness activities, and for county emergency office events. In a separate item of county business, there will be an emergency response meeting that is scheduled for Thursday, Aug. 20. Also, commissioners were informed there will be an emergency preparedness exercise on Aug. 25 that will assess the county’s response to an “active shooter” incident. The exercise will be conducted as a “table top” drill in a group discussion format. Another emergency training exercise which is set to take place at the county fairgrounds in the near future has not as of Monday had a final date scheduled.

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A4 Wednesday, August 19, 2015

ACCENT

Delta County Independent

Teens excel at national competition BY PAT SUNDERLAND Managing Editor

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An annual event offers the opportunity for teens across the country to join together as God made them, with different gifts and different passions, yet the same calling. The National Fine Arts Festival features inspirational speakers, bands, exhibits, workshops and presentations highlighting the teens’ gifts in a competitive format. This year’s event — the largest gathering of Assemblies of God youth, parents and leaders — took place Aug. 3-7 in Orlando, Fla. A contingent of 20 students ages 13 to 18 from the Delta area first competed at the district level (Colorado-Utah), playing instruments, writing dramas, performing human videos and creating works of visual art. Other competitors sang solos or performed with groups, danced

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Twenty students and four leaders from the Delta Assembly of God traveled to Orlando, Fla., earlier this month for the National Fine Arts Festival. In the foreground, holding the trophy, is Samantha Proctor. (again solo or in groups), designed T-shirts and presented puppet shows. Samantha Proctor, 16,

Fletcher, Foster to exchange vows

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Dale and Karen Harper of Paonia and Don and Nancy Foster of Hotchkiss announce the marriage of Angelia Fletcher to Adam Foster of Grand Junction in a private ceremony Sept. 16. A reception/barbecue will be held Sept. 19 at Paradise Hills Park in Grand Junction from noon to 4 p.m.

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making tamales, painting fences and outbuildings, and other projects. Participants also earning money toward college were Eloise Norfleet, Mario Chavez, Ashley Haag, Dezmond Jones, Amanda Kuta, Thomas Neil, Bryan White, Maddie Tracey, Steven Pitt, Braden Atchley, Isaac Timbreza, Monique Chavez, Devin Glidden, Morgan Dillingham, Derrek Johnson, Beki Atchley, Rachel Bishop, Helen Jaffe, Allison Atchley and Samantha Proctor. Adult leaders included Jason Atchley, Christy Hill, Darby Davis, youth pastor, and Davis. Next year’s festival will take place in Louisville, Ky.

�� League of Women Voters celebrates �� passage of the 19th Amendment

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Adam Foster and Angelia Fletcher

excelled in writing, picking up the nation’s top honor for a book chapter and placing fifth in poetry. Proctor’s chapter, the first from a book titled “A Day of Evil,” immediately caught the judge’s interest. In addition to a beautiful trophy, Samantha won a scholarship to an Assemblies of God college. “All our youth placed excellent in the competition, where they competed against 13,000 youth in the nation, but Samantha’s achievement was incredible,” said Cindy Davis, one of five adult sponsors on the trip to Orlando, Fla. She said the students raised the $22,000 necessary for the trip by mowing lawns, washing cars,

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On Aug. 26, 1920, the 19th Amendment to the U.S. Constitution granting women the right to vote and to run for office was officially enacted. Sometimes called “The Susan B. Anthony Amend-

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Wallaces celebrate �� 60 years �� of marriage ��

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COMMUNITY IS

Donald and Phyllis Wallace of Paonia celebrated their 60th wedding anniversary Aug. 12. The Wallaces have lived in Paonia most of their lives. Donald is a graduate of Hotchkiss High School and Phyllis is a Paonia grad. They have eight children. They celebrated their anniversary with friends, three of their children, Dane and Sarah Tunand a sister from Denver get of Delta are the paron Aug. 8. ents of a son, Everett Ray Tunget, born July 20, 2015, at Delta County Memorial Hospital. He weighed 6 pounds, 12.4 ounces and was 20 inches in length.

TAKING PRIDE IN YOUR WORK ��

ment,” it contained a mere 39 words: “The right of citizens of the United States to vote shall not be denied or abridged by the United States or by any State on account of sex. Congress shall have power to enforce this article by appropriate legislation.” On this “Women’s Equality Day,” League of Women Voters urges you to take a moment to reflect on how hard and how long our foremothers worked to secure suffrage rights for American women. You might want to check out the League exhibits at the Montrose and Delta libraries to appreciate just what they accomplished. The local League of Women Voters will celebrate this auspicious occa-

sion by a parade in period costume from 4 to 5 p.m. Wednesday, Aug. 26, near the Delta County Courthouse. On Thursday, Aug. 27, the HBO film “Iron Jawed Angels,” starring Hilary Swank, will be shown in the Montrose Library community room. Doors open at 6:30 p.m.; there is no charge. For more information, contact Karen Connor at 275-1314. The League of Women Voters is focused on protecting voting rights for all and making sure everyone who is eligible to vote is able to. The League, which also was founded in 1920, does not support or oppose candidates and is not affiliated with any political party.

BIRTHS

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2015, at Delta County Memorial Hospital. He weighed 6 pounds, 2.6 ounces and was 19.5 inches in length. Samantha Tweten and Ty Langston of Somerset are the parents of a son, Jona True Langston, born July 26, 2015, at Delta County Memorial Hospital. He weighed 6 pounds, 12 ounces and was 19 inches in length.

Jacob and Janell Oberheu are the parents of a son, Brooks Robert Oberheu, born July 21, 2015, at Delta County Memorial Hospital. He weighed 9 pounds, 4 Rikki Commander ounces and was 23 inch- and Erric West of Delta es in length. are the parents of a son, Payson Lee West, Stacie Mundell and born July 30, 2015, at Randy Whitworth are the Delta County Memorial parents of a daughter, Hospital. He weighed 7 Divinity Lee Sophia pounds, 2 ounces and Whitworth, born July was 20 inches in length. 22, 2015, at Delta County Memorial Hospital. Sam and Sherry BeatShe weighed 6 pounds, tie of Paonia are the par0.4 ounce and was 19.25 ents of a son, Dakota inches in length. James Beattie, born July 31, 2015, at Delta Matt and Becky County Memorial HospiPatrone of Olathe are tal. He weighed 7 pounds, the parents of a daugh- 8.2 ounces and was 20 ter, Evelyn Kenosha inches in length. Patrone, born July 22, Jazmine Wallace and 2015, at Delta County Memorial Hospital. She Evsevio Hernandez of weighed 7 pounds, 14.6 Delta are the parents of ounces and was 20 inch- a son, Jeremiah Hernandez, born July 31, es in length. 2015, at Delta County Alexandra Yates of Memorial Hospital. He Crawford is the parent weighed 6 pounds, 9 of a son, Benson Bjorn ounces and was 19.75 Yates, born July 23, inches in length.

SCHOOL

Delta County Independent

Susan Fisher

Garnet Mesa Elementary - Special Education

Kalen Dillon

Garnet Mesa Elementary - First Grade

EDUCATION: Bachelor of Arts HOBBIES: Arts, crafts, quilting

EDUCATION: B.S. Education - Family & Consumer Sciences Field Endorsement Chadron State College

FAMILY: I have two daughters, EvaMarie Fisher and Olivia Fisher. My nieces and nephews are Spencer Barnes, Jessica Barnes, Brett Pﬁster and Savannah Pﬁster.

HOBBIES: My family loves being outdoors, as we are ranchers, and we love hunting. I like to cook, bake and repurpose old items, do simple crafts and ﬁx family heirlooms, FAMILY: Husband Doug Dillon, son John Douglas (JD) Dillon and a baby due in November 2015.

Alicia Bechard

Garnet Mesa Elementary - Fifth Grade

Staci Lawrence

Lincoln Elementary - Special Education K-1-2

EDUCATION: Spanish Language & Literature University of Colorado at Boulder

EDUCATION: B.Ed. Elementary Education Washburn University, Topeka, Kansas Special Ed/Gifted Certiﬁcation University of New Mexico

HOBBIES: I love being active. I love playing softball and riding my bike with our dogs. I also enjoy hiking and camping with my husband.

HOBBIES: I enjoy photography and working at state and national parks and a volunteer. My husband and I have worked at Ridgway State Park for two summers.

FAMILY: My family includes my husband, three dogs and our cat. My parents and two younger brothers live in Longmont.

Tara Borgmann

Lincoln Elementary - First Grade

FAMILY: I am married with two grown sons.

Belenda Wright

Lincoln Elementary - Second Grade

Wednesday, August 19, 2015

Kimberly Varela

Garnet Mesa Elementary - Second Grade EDUCATION: B.A. Elementary Education Northern Arizona University HOBBIES: Church, family, farming, outdoors, traveling and Spanish language FAMILY: My husband, Dennis Varela, is the IT director for Vision Charter Academy. We have been married 16 years and have ﬁve children, Cody, Diego, Simon, Rosa and Ben.

Danielle Marks

Lincoln Elementary - First Grade EDUCATION: Elementary Education York (Nebraska) College HOBBIES: I love to do crafts and learn new things. If it is hands-on, I will most likely be interested in it. Softball is my biggest hobby. I have played since I was 8 years old. Also, I love being outside. FAMILY: My immediate family consists of my dad, mom and my brother. I am close with my dad’s side of the family since a lot of them live very close to me.

Sondra Brown

Lincoln Elementary - Second Grade

EDUCATION: B.A. Interdisciplinary Studies: Early Childhood Education

EDUCATION: B.A. Interdisciplinary Studies Adams State College

EDUCATION: University of Oklahoma Colorado Mesa University

HOBBIES: I love to crochet afghans, hats and anything else that can be made with yarn. I also love hanging out with my friends and family.

HOBBIES: I love to read, cook, camp, hike, spend time with my family and go jeeping in Moab and in the mountains.

HOBBIES: Crafts, tennis, reading, bowling, hot springs, church, painting pottery, movies, gardening and traveling.

FAMILY: I am one of ﬁve daughters and have parents who are still happily married. Currently I am in a relationship with a wonderful man who has two amazing kids that I love dearly.

FAMILY: Most of my family lives in Oklahoma. I have three of the cutest nephews in the world! My ﬁance and his family live here in Colorado. They are very supportive. I try to visit my family in Oklahoma when I can.

FAMILY: I have a brother, Ryan, sister-inlaw, Lisa, and a sister, Leah. My parents are Wendy and Dayn Borgmann.

Carol Flick

Lincoln Elementary - Third Grade

Mary Wynn Hurd Lincoln Elementary - Third Grade

EDUCATION: B.A. Human Services II M.A. Elementary Education/Adolescents

EDUCATION: M.A. Education Western Governor’s University B.A. History Boston University

HOBBIES: Reading, snowmobiling, hiking, RVing, playing cards, taking art classes, music, singing, spending time with family and friends.

HOBBIES: Knitting, reading, hiking and walking my dogs. I also love to swim and kayak.

FAMILY: My husband is a retired math/ science teacher. We have four children, Teri, Troy, Patrick and Pamela, and 11 grandchildren.

FAMILY: I have a husband and two dogs. My parents live in Louisiana; my brother, his wife and my niece live in Florida.

Doug Goodwin

Lincoln Elementary - Fourth Grade

Jesse Kendig

Lincoln Elementary - Fourth Grade

EDUCATION: Sociology/Elementary Education Fort Lewis College Master’s in Education - Adams State HOBBIES: Mountain biking, dirt bike riding, whitewater rafting/kayaking, ﬁshing, hiking, backpacking, camping, backcountry skiing, reading, music.

Delta Middle School - Math 6-7

James Hughes

Darin Hamm

EDUCATION: Oklahoma Christian University HOBBIES: Fishing, basketball, reading FAMILY: My wife is Lori. We have three children, Nathan, Madison and Morgan.

Megan Downs

Delta High School - Science 9-10-11-12 EDUCATION: B.S. Colorado Mesa University HOBBIES: I spend a lot of time on home improvement projects. I enjoy reading and watching documentaries and Tedtalks. My kids and I spend a lot of time outside hiking or playing at the park.

HOBBIES: Coaching, basketball, cross country, archery, hunting, ﬁshing, camping, art, music, woodworking FAMILY: My wife is Becky Hughes. We have two sons and two daughters, James, age 18; Brittany, age 16; Hunter, age 13; and Oaklee, age 11.

Amelia Baldwin

EDUCATION: Bachelor Degree - Mathematics Colorado State University HOBBIES: Tennis, anything outdoors, theatre/drama/acting, playing mandolin and guitar FAMILY: My husband is Cole Baldwin. We have one son, Roan.

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Jacob Royster

Lincoln Elementary - K-5 Physical Education

FAMILY: My wife is Stefanie Royster. We have three children — Marcus, age 9; Jordan, age 3, almost 4; and Jaelyn, age 1, almost 2.

Kayla Dorzweiler

Delta Middle School - Sixth Grade Resource EDUCATION: B.A. Physical Education Western State College M.A. Special Education University of Phoenix HOBBIES: I enjoy spending time with my family, cross-stitching, outdoor activities, track and ﬁeld and coloring with my daughter. My husband Nathan and I have two daughters, Nadira, 3, and Jaylee, 5 months, two cats and one dog.

EDUCATION: Elementary Education/Middle School Math Utah State University

Delta Opportunity School - Mathematics

FAMILY: My family lives in Wisconsin.

HOBBIES: Broncos, fantasy football, disc golf, sports in general.

FAMILY: Just married in July.

Delta Middle School - Math 7-8

HOBBIES: I enjoy hiking, biking, camping and walking in nature. I love documenting fun memories with photos and scrapbooking. My major interest all year round is READING!

HOBBIES: Football, hiking, snowmobiling, hunting, motor sports and most sports.

Delta Middle School - Social Studies 7-8

HOBBIES: Helping my family with their vegetable stand, snowboarding and spending time with our husky.

EDUCATION: Elementary Education Northern Michigan University

EDUCATION: B.A. Kinesiology - Teaching (K-12) Colorado Mesa University

FAMILY: Wife, Jessica Kendig; father, Jeff Kendig; mom, Karen Kendig; siblings, Jasmine, Logan and Alayna.

EDUCATION: B.S. Mathematics University of Northern Colorado M.S. Statistics University of Northern Colorado

Lincoln Elementary - Third Grade

EDUCATION: Elementary Education Sterling College

FAMILY: Wife Nellie. My dad lives in Ohio and a brother, Brian, lives in California.

Veronica Diaz Adame

Ashley Bembenek

FAMILY: I have an incredible family, both immediate and extended. My children, in particular, are my world. My daughter’s name is Sheylen and my son’s name is Jameson.

Debbie Yeager

Delta Opportunity School - Math and Science

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Marcos LeBlanc Delta High School - Band EDUCATION: B.A. Music Education Adams State University HOBBIES: Music, photography, collecting bow ties, Rubik’s cubes. FAMILY: I am engaged to Julia Nicholas, the choir teacher at Delta High School.

Anna Cummins

Delta High School - English 9-10

EDUCATION: Bachelor’s - Northern Arizona University Master’s - University of Northern Colorado

EDUCATION: English Education Northwest Missouri State University

HOBBIES: I enjoy gardening, hunting, ﬁshing, hiking, running and horseback riding. My family and I are very active outdoors. It is important to me to teach my kids the importance of the outdoors.

HOBBIES: Coaching, running, hiking, dogs, basketball, baseball

FAMILY: I have a wonderful husband of over 10 years and two beautiful children. We enjoy being together in everything we do.

FAMILY: My husband is Tyler Cummins. My parents are Tim and Francine O’Brien, and my brother is Josiah O’Brien.

A6 Wednesday, August 19, 2015

SCHOOL

Lauren Ziccardi

Jenica Schevene

North Fork School of Integrated Studies - Grades 3-4

North Fork School of Integrated Studies - Grades K-2

EDUCATION: Bachelor of Liberal Arts Evergreen State College

EDUCATION: B.A. Political Science Colorado College

HOBBIES: I enjoy traveling, speaking Spanish, climbing mountains, organizing largescale community art projects and working in my garden.

HOBBIES: Hiking, skiing, gardening, reading, personal development and mountain biking. I love to learn new skills and meet new people.

FAMILY: I was raised on the Front Range, where my immediate family remains.

FAMILY: I am married with two precious girls who are 8 and 10 years old. My husband makes ﬁlms, does metal work and grew up in Paonia.

Leslie Kaminski

Paula Irving

Hotchkiss K-8 - Sixth Grade Math and Science

Hotchkiss K-8 - Third Grade

EDUCATION: B.A. Geography Minor: Geology and Environmental Studies

EDUCATION: Elementary Education University of Colorado

HOBBIES: Backpacking, ﬁshing, climbing, gardening, working with horses, wood burning, skiing, baking/cooking, rodeo, travel. I have played the viola since fourth grade. I recently started hunting and have learned I need to become a better shot!

HOBBIES: Sewing, scrapbooking, gardening FAMILY: I have been married 30 years and have two grown children.

Delta County Independent

Kathy Keeling

Hotchkiss K-8 - ELL/Interventionist EDUCATION: B.S. Elementary Education Faith Baptist Bible College M.S. Educational Leadership Walden University HOBBIES: I love to walk and enjoy nature. I also love cooking for friends and family. FAMILY: I have three children who are all grown and working. I have two granddaughters who live in Grand Junction with my daughter and son-in-law. My son is living in Dallas, Texas, and my youngest daughter lives in Murrieta, Calif.

Joyce Grinstead Hotchkiss K-8 - Second Grade

EDUCATION: B.A. Colorado Mesa University HOBBIES: Scrapbooking, jeeping, hiking, history. FAMILY: I have been married 26 years and have three children and three grandchildren.

FAMILY: My mom and dad live in Elvira, Ohio, where we were all raised. My brother just left Colorado to move back home.

Amber Bayles

Gerald Duboulay

Hotchkiss K-8 - English and Social Studies

Hotchkiss K-8 - Math

EDUCATION: B.A. Western Governor’s University HOBBIES: My hobbies include spending time with my husband and children. I love the outdoors especially in the spring, summer and fall. I prefer a warm ﬁre and hot cocoa in the winter. I spend a lot of my summer on Grand Mesa camping, ﬁshing and riding. I also love to sew and quilt.

Taralee Williams

Hotchkiss High School - Social Studies/P.E./Weights

EDUCATION: B.S. Finance University of Central Florida

EDUCATION: B.A. Secondary Education/Social Studies Slippery Rock University

HOBBIES: Coaching football, wrestling, track. Hiking, biking and riding motorcycles — street and dirt.

HOBBIES: Volleyball, basketball, working out, hiking, reading.

FAMILY: Father, Errol; mother, Catherine; sister, Elizabeth; ﬁancee, Evelyn. I’ve found a home here in the North Fork, speciﬁcally at HK8, because of the goodhearted, welcoming people, great kids and strong sense of community.

FAMILY: I have been married to my husband Steve for 19 years. We have two wonderful children, Kaleb, 18, and Shayne, 13.

Like us.

DELTA COUNTY

C’mon. You know you do!

INDEPENDENT

www.deltacountyindependent.com

Crystal Samples

Hotchkiss High School - Science/Math EDUCATION: B.S. Chemistry with Emphasis on Forensic Science - CSU Pueblo HOBBIES: Golﬁng, swimming (which got me hooked on triathlons), playing the piano, knitting, crocheting. I like to camp and hike and recently started ﬁshing. FAMILY: My parents, Dave and Lisa Samples, live in Brush where they own a photography studio. My sister lives in Denver and works with troubled children.

Evyn Steger

Paonia High School - Algebra II, AP Calculus EDUCATION: B.S. Mathematics University of Colorado Denver HOBBIES: Music, hiking, caring for animals, reading, camping, traveling, cooking, collecting gems and minerals.

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FAMILY: My husband Ryan and I have one son, Levon, and two daugs, Sugaree and Pans.

Sarah Belger

Cedaredge Elementary - First Grade EDUCATION: Bachelor’s in Communications Minor: Political Science San Diego State University HOBBIES: I was born in San Diego. I ran track and ﬁeld and cross country at SDSU. I love to rollerskate, hike and explore the beautiful North Fork Valley with my ﬁancé and our 1-year-old golden retriever, Sunny. FAMILY: Recently engaged to Scott Murtaugh.

Leslie Hoerr

Cedaredge Elementary - Third Grade EDUCATION: Western Governors University

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HOBBIES: My favorite interest is my three sons. In addition, my hobbies include watching sports, reading, gardening and cooking. FAMILY: My parents are Roy and Mary Cranor. I am the youngest of three siblings. My husband Mike and I have been married since 1999. We have three sons, Colton, Brian and Jory.

Deborah Whitney Cedaredge Elementary - Fifth Grade

EDUCATION: B.A. Behavioral Science Metropolitan State College of Denver M.A. Information and Learning Technologies University of Colorado Denver HOBBIES: Bicycling, gardening and taking classes. I am very interested in beekeeping and raising backyard chickens. FAMILY: I have been married to my husband John, a talented brick/stonemason, for 14 years. My stepdaughter, Rana, is a nurse in Grand Junction. Most of my family lives in Cincinnati, Ohio, where I was born and raised. We have a goofy dalmatian named Dufﬂes.

Kayla Jubert

Cedaredge Middle/High School - Science/Chemistry EDUCATION: B.S. Chemistry Colorado Mesa University HOBBIES: Hiking, camping, photography and reading. FAMILY: My sister lives in Bellingham, Wash., and my mother lives in Fort Collins.

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Noelle Gerstenecker Cedaredge High School - Art

EDUCATION: Graphic Design and Art Education K-12 Colorado Mesa University HOBBIES: Painting, drawing, sculpting, photography, hiking, biking, camping, backpacking, rafting and reading. FAMILY: My father is an engineering professor and my sister is a librarian which explains the interest that my sister, brother and I have in the ﬁne arts and our high regard for education.

Delta County Independent

ACTIVITIES

Wednesday, August 19, 2015

�� Celebrate the Fork Aug. 28-29 ��

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The North Fork Valley Creative Coalition is throwing the party of the year at the Delta County Fairgrounds Aug. 28 and 29 to honor the work of the creative people who live in the North Fork. “Celebrate the Fork!” starts Friday night in a transformed Heritage Hall decorated like you’ve never seen before where you’ll be amazed at the exhibits of the work of nationally recognized North Fork artisans and craftsmen surrounding the elegantly decorated dining tables before

you sit down to a dinner prepared by some of the leading restaurants’ chefs with all food provided by local ranchers and farmers, and juices, wine, beer and spirits from our celebrated vintners, brewers and distillers. And to keep the night rolling you can dance till you drop to the sounds of “The Deans of The North Fork Music Scene” — The Scones. On Saturday, the gates open at 10 a.m., so get there early with your chairs and blankets to save your place under the trees of the park to enjoy

a day of music that highlights the best area musicians have to offer and check out the works of the local artists and craftsmen set up around the park or in air conditioned comfort at Heritage Hall. There will be work by artists, sculptors, potters, quilt-makers, furniture makers, saddle and holster makers, jewelers, authors and more. The music will feature gospel to choral groups in the morning. The afternoonjust keeps getting hotter with David Starr, Beth Williams and David Snider, Michael Meadows and

MOJO, The 3 Tinkers, The Scones, The North Fork Flyers with guest Harry Harpoon. After dark, Travis Mann, raised in Paonia before moving on to Nashville, will be in town for one night only with a Nashville all-star band featuring Guthrie Trapp. The evening closes at 9 p.m. with a special guest star, the one and only Otis Taylor, who will stop in Hotchkiss on his world tour. For tickets go to NorthForkCreative.org, email nfvcreativecoalition@ gmail.com or call 8724671.

Learn to care for big game meat in Montrose

Big game meat is delicious, but caring for it in the field and during processing is important to maintain the great flavor. A workshop on how to take care of big game meat will be offered at the Colorado Parks and Wildlife office in Montrose, 69 p.m., on Aug. 26. CPW district wildlife managers will lead the class. The class will cover all the aspects of caring for big game meat: how to take care of the animal after the harvest, how to quarter a carcass to

Dance to be held at Montrose Pavilion The Montrose Pavilion Dance Club is hosting a dance at the Montrose Pavilion, 1800 Pavilion Drive, on Saturday, Aug. 22, from 7:30 to 11 p.m. Music will be provided by Ghost River Band. Admission is $5 per person. Bring refreshments to share if you wish. For information, call 2527172.

make it more manageable to remove from the field, how to process the meat at home, and how to wrap and freeze game meat properly. The class is free, but space is limited. To reserve a seat, please call the CPW office in Montrose at 252-6000. The CPW office is located at 2300 S. Townsend Avenue, Montrose.

Travis Mann and friends

Delta Family Center hosts back-to-school fun To promote parent involvement, Delta Family Center is hosting a back-to-school kickoff party Saturday, Aug. 22, from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. Festivities will take place at Cleland Park. Located at 822 Grand Avenue, Delta Family Center incorporates the school district’s Backpack program, BELA preschool and a family resource center. The Family Resource Center helps strengthen the relationships between families and community agencies while providing a set of enriching experiences for a lifetime of

learning. The center’s newest neighbor is A kidZ Clinic, a school-based health clinic lodged on the campus that was formerly home to Delta’s middle and high schools. Head Start, Delta Academy of Applied Learning and family literacy programs are located on the same campus.

To celebrate the beginning of the school year, a variety of events are planned Saturday, including a 5k fun run, inflatable obstacle course, chances to win fabulous prizes, game booths and a free lunch provided by the Delta Lions Club. Community vendors will provide information to families of all ages.

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John and Candace McCoy

In concert

Chapel of the Cross hosts guitar, flute duo Musical guitar and flute duo John and Candace McCoy will perform at the Chapel of the Cross on Sunday Aug. 23, at 4 p.m. The McCoys, from Delta, play an eclectic mix of classical, flamenco, Celtic and jazz music. Many of their songs are originals. They taught professionally in the Parker area before moving to Delta five years ago. Candace went to

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Dr. John Howard, classical organist, will perform at the Chapel of the Cross on Thursday, Aug. 20, at 7 p.m. Dr. Howard, also a conductor, pianist and bass-baritone, is a native of San Diego, Calif. He earned his BA in music from Christian Heritage College in 2002. In 2005 he earned his MA in musicology from San Diego State University and in 2011 he completed his doctorate of musical arts in choral conducting and pedagogy at the University of Southern Mississippi In 2014 he moved to Grand Junction where he is the director of music and worship arts at First Presbyterian Church and conductor of the Schumann Singers. In addition to his full-time music position, he is an active freelance accompanist in the Grand Valley, particularly at Palisade High School and Colorado Mesa University. Admission is by donation.

Hotchkiss High School and majored in music at Western State College. John has studied flamenco guitar with world famous Rene Heredia and classical guitar with several guitar professors from major colleges. He also teaches through Vision Charter Academy and to local and international students from his studio in Delta. Admission is by donation.

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A8 Wednesday, August 19, 2015

LOCAL NEWS

Delta County Independent

The most important school supply? A library card BY LEAH MORRIS Delta County Libraries

With schools starting this week, displays in local stores have been flooded with piles of pencils, paper, backpacks, rulers and all those essentials that make going back to school an overwhelming shopping event for parents and an exciting chance to get new stuff for kids. The National Retail Federation estimates that the average American family will spend over $600 on back-to-school-related supplies, electronics and

clothing in 2015. However, according to Delta County Libraries district director Annette Choszczyk, the most important back-to-school supply is not only free, but will last a lifetime if properly used. “I would like to propose that a library card be at the top of the list for every Delta County student,” she explains. “The benefits of having a card in good standing are enormous for students of all ages.” Choszczyk is not alone in this belief. Teachers and other school staff

advocate for library cards as well. “I always encourage my students to get library cards if they don’t have them. Not only can they use them to check out books, but to access valuable research databases as well,” says Delta High School teacher Kelly Johnson. Johnson is referring to databases that are available on the library district website 24/7. These electronic resources include easily searchable academic journals, periodicals, and newspapers, downloadable fiction

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8/18/15 12:57 PM

MEET ME AT THE FORT

ON THE OLD SPANISH TRAIL 440 N. Palmer Street, Delta

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Saturday, August 22 September 5 September 19 10 a.m.–2 p.m

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Admission: Adults & Children - $2.00 Seniors & Children under 6 - FREE Dressed in Period Clothing - FREE 11407167_832295256838793_7599442997246931767_n.jpg 960�640 pixels

and non-fiction e-books and audiobooks, downloadable music, online classes, resume builders, language programs and more. Unlike many things a student may encounter on the Internet, these resources are safe and provide accurate, valid information. Additionally, because these products are the same resources available at larger libraries around the country, a user is not limited by living in a rural area or attending a small school. Everything on the library website is free, but almost all the links require a valid Delta County Libraries card. Unfortunately, years of childhood library card use can result in overdue fines that block a student’s card. Helping a student to locate and return overdue books, then creating a plan with that child to pay the associated fines provides an opportunity to discuss the importance of fiscal responsibility, meeting deadlines and using the library sensibly. A clear library card can then be used in a variety of ways to enhance the student’s education and reading enjoyment. That library card has

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Step back in time with us as we explore the ﬁrst trading post in western Colorado and learn about life 160 years ago. Experience blacksmithing, learn adobe works, cooking, tomahawk throwing, ﬂint knapping, weaving and more.

Home school parents must notify the school district Parents who plan to establish a non-public home-based educational program must provide written notification to the local school district of residence each year. The statement should include the name, age, place of residence and number of hours of attendance of each child enrolled in the home-based program. A notification form for this purpose may be obtained from Delta County Joint School District #50, Special Services Building, 1002 Hastings Street, Delta, CO 81416, or call 874-7607.

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For more information call 874-8349

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the potential to carry a child through his entire school education. Unlike crayons that break or backpacks that go out of fashion, a library card will always provide access to up-to-date online and inlibrary resources. A child exposed to the library at an early age and encouraged through school years will have the skills and mindset for library

research in college and in future jobs. As far as putting the library card at the top of back-to-school lists, Choszczyk says seriously, “I’m not saying your child should get a library card instead of a backpack or new school clothes. Just don’t overlook the value of a library card in your child’s education and future success.”

‘Medicare and You’ Feeling lost in the maze of Medicare? Need help learning the ins and outs of the complex prescription drug plans? Come to the Delta Library on Saturday, Aug. 22, from

10:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. Certified counselors will be available to answer all your questions. The event is free, and does not require an RSVP. For details, call 249-2436.

Learn about Girl Scouts at cupcake kickoff party Delta and Cedaredge girls interested in joining Girl Scouts are invited to a cupcake kickoff party on Monday, Aug. 24, where they’ll learn just how sweet it is to be a Girl Scout! While a parent or guardian registers the girl, she will have fun decorating a cupcake, playing games with other Scouts and doing a craft. There is no charge for the event. Girls in kindergarten through 12th grade may join Girl Scouts. The fee to register for the year is $15 per girl. Financial assis-

tance is available. If you miss the kickoff and still want to participate in Girl Scouts, register online with a credit or debit card at girlscoutsof colorado.org. Through Girl Scouts, girls learn about community involvement, leadership and being part of a worldwide sisterhood. The event is held at Westminster Hall on E. 4th Street in Delta, from 6-7:30 p.m. Monday, Aug. 24. Call Jessica Earl at 970-985-5297 to RSVP or for more information. Troops are also available in Hotchkiss for North Fork girls.

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Fort comes to life this Saturday The Fort on the Old Spanish Trail, or Fort Uncompahgre, will come to life with special Saturday events Aug. 22, Sept. 5 and Sept. 19. Come in period attire and get free admission. Otherwise, the cost is $2 for adults and children; free for seniors and children under the age of 6.

Rec center closure announced Bill Heddles Recreation Center is having a full facility maintenance closure Tuesday, Sept. 1, through Monday, Sept. 7 (Labor Day). From Sept. 1-4, the front desk will be open from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. for general information and class registration. The recreation center will reopen to the public Tuesday, Sept. 8, with its normal operating hours of 5:30 a.m. to 9 p.m.

From 10 a.m. to 2 p.m., you’ll get a glimpse of fur traders carrying out their daily tasks in the year 1840. Meet the historical characters and experience blacksmithing, adobe works, cooking, games and learn about flint work rifles. Learn to throw a tomahawk and see a flintknaping demonstration. Visit the teepee village and learn the techniques of restoring a historic covered wagon.

The original fort was located along the North Branch of the Old Spanish Trail. Antoine Robidoux understood the value of location, when he built the fur trading post in the 1820s. Its geographic location and rich agricultural land have been attracting people for thousands of years. Today the fort is located across from Bill Heddles Recreation Center and is open to the public seven days a week. For more information, call 874-8349.

NORTH FORK August 19, 2015

TIMES

Section

www.deltacountyindependent.com

First responders honored for life-saving acts BY TAMIE MECK Staff Writer

If you ask his family members, friends, and co-workers at Zack’s Bar-B-Q, they’ll probably say that Larry Hicks is a one-in-a-million guy. Statistically speaking, he is one in nine. On the afternoon of July 18, and without warning, Hicks, a 25-year employee of Zack’s, suffered a severe heart

Photo submitted

A Lucas 2 device was used in saving the life of Larry Hicks. The device is standard equipment for the North Fork Ambulance.

attack at work. By chance, trained first responders were dining at Zack’s and provided Hicks the immediate life-saving care he needed to survive. The first responders and medical professionals who cared for Hicks that day were honored in a heartwarming ceremony Thursday at Hotchkiss Town Hall. “It makes me really happy to see that we have a community that knows how to respond in emergency crises and be able to do the things that they’ve done,” said town Marshal Dan Miller in an emotional opening statement. Hicks, who personally thanked each of the first responders, gave a thumbs up when Marshal Miller thanked everyone for attending the event, “and especially you, Larry. Glad you’re still with us.” Miller read a letter written to Hicks “and all the people who helped,” from Delta County Memorial Hospital emergency specialist Dr. Treve Henwood. Henwood stated that July 18 was likely one of the best days of Hicks’ life. “I

do not like to say this tongue in cheek or to get a laugh, only that it is true. When you collapsed at your work, you were essentially dead.” Henwood counted 37 people who were directly involved in the life-saving care Hicks received in the two and a half hours following onset of the heart attack. The quick actions of diners saved Hicks’ life by supplying blood and oxygen to the brain, “preventing severe brain damage.” Crawford resident Caleb

Schelle, a 2014 Hotchkiss High School graduate, was celebrating his 19th birthday with three friends when a waitress entered the dining room asking for a doctor. Schelle was certified as a Wilderness First Responder in 2013, in Thailand, courtesy of family friend Pam Cocker of Crawford. He thought the skills would come in handy while out hiking and camping, and was considering a career in medicine, “and she wanted to give me the oppor-

tunity to explore that.” One of his friends motioned to Schelle who was unsure if he should step up for fear the problem was out of his realm. But his friend persisted, said Schelle, urging him to do something. Schelle followed the waitress to the back of the restaurant, where first responder Lionel Atwell was already performing chest compressions. Performing CPR at 100 chest compressions per minute is LIFE-SAVING ACTS TO B2

Paonia steps up to code enforcement BY TAMIE MECK Staff Writer

Paonia resident Kathy Greer came before Paonia trustees on Aug. 11 to complain about a neighbor’s “junkyard.” Greer, who lives on Box Elder Avenue in the Lee’s Park Subdivision, said six vehicles, some of which are leaking oil, and three of which aren’t running, along with other unsightly objects are making the property an eyesore. “I have complained and complained and complained,” said Greer. Town manager Jane Berry responded that, if it’s the property she’s thinking of, Officer Neil Ferguson and the police department are aware of the problem, and the town code enforcement officer is in communication with the owners. The property, said Berry, will see improvements in the near future. Greer also complained that Lee’s Park, which is owned by the town, hasn’t been watered this summer, and asked why the subdivision lacks a fire hydrant. Berry explained that irrigation water is not used on Lee’s Park. Due to the fact that the town’s one-milliongallon storage tank has been out of operation all summer,

the town made the decision not to use treated water on its properties. As for the lack of a hydrant, public works director Travis Loberg explained that it’s an infrastructure issue — twoinch water lines carry water into the subdivision, while a hydrant requires six-inch lines. Code enforcement is becoming more of a priority with the town, which recently set up a radar speed device on Fourth Street, and increased patrol, resulting in several speeding warnings and citations. Everyone cited last month opted to pay the fine rather than appear in court, said Officer Neil Ferguson, making July the eighth month without a town court session. Berry said that at any given time, six to 10 citations are awaiting payment. “I hate to say this,” said Berry, “but in some ways it’s a very pleasurable experience to be writing out the receipt for the payment of those citations.” People are slowing down, said Berry. “That’s significant and says that our police department is working hard to protect the community.... That’s what it’s really about.” The department is also dealing with complaints of PAONIA TO B4

Pickin’ in the Park

An estimated 1,500 people attended the concert by Nathaniel Rateliff and the Night Sweats on Aug. 14 at Paonia Town Park. This week’s Pickin’ in the Park concert headliner is Davina & the Vagabonds, a “jazzy, bluesy quintet chock full of soul and class.” The eight-piece band Dustbowl Revival will open at 6 p.m. and perform at the Pickin’ After Dark series starting at 9:30 p.m. at the Paradise Theatre.

Dr. Meilner considering all options for NF medical clinic BY TAMIE MECK Staff Writer

The Paonia office of the North Fork Medical Clinic is open. After the clinic wasn’t listed among health care options for North Fork residents in a Delta County Memorial Hospital press release in the Aug. 12 edition of the Delta County Independent, Dr. Timothy Meilner said he received several inquiries about the clinic’s status. The sign for the office, located at the corner of Third Street and Minnesota Avenue, was recently removed, adding

Hotchkiss council weighs DMEA broadband resolution BY TAMIE MECK Staff Writer

Trish Thibodo, director of Delta County Economic Development, came before the Hotchkiss Town Council on Aug. 13 to give a presentation on efforts to bring broadband Internet access to Delta County. DCED is working with Region 10, which was recently awarded a $5.2 million grant to build middlemile infrastructure to provide that access to the county. The money will support getting it to a carrier-neutral location and “anchor institutions,” explained Thibodo. Because

this is a government-funded initiative, it will be built as an open-access network available to multiple Internet service providers. Thibodo said DCED is encouraging the town to opt out of State Senate Bill 05152, which prohibits towns from becoming direct providers, partnering with private companies or allowing the use of government infrastructure for cable television, telecommunications and high-speed Internet access without putting the issue to a vote. The town has already submitted a letter of intent to Delta County

Photo by Tamie Meck

DMEA smart grid coordinator Mark Kurtz gives a presentation on the background of the organization’s efforts to bring broadband Internet access to Delta County at the Aug. 13 meeting of the Hotchkiss Town Council. The town has submitted a letter of intent to put the issue of opting out of SB 05-152 before voters this November.

Photo by Tamie Meck

to put the issue before voters this November. If towns opt out, they have more flexibility in getting high-speed broadband to county businesses and homes. Mark Kurtz, smart grid coordinator with DeltaMontrose Electric Association, also gave a presentation on the authority’s history of bringing broadband access to the area, dating back to about 1999. DMEA is asking Olathe and the Delta County communities to pass a resolution allowing DMEA to approve five actions that will allow them to move forward with the work necessary to get access to the town. Consumers can then decide which company they want to be their provider. Trustees directed the town attorney Bo Nerlin to draft a resolution, omitting the fifth action stating that the town, “in conjunction with DMEA, aid in the marketing efforts to engage it citizens to encourage participation in the program.” Kurtz said he understands where the town is coming from and will take the message back to the board. “I do understand where you have to be somewhat agnostic when it comes to businesses that are in your communities,” said Kurtz, “and you can’t support” one business over another.

to the confusion. Dr. Meilner has practiced family medicine for 21 years, and has worked at the clinic the past 19 years. He currently is the only care provider on staff after Dr. Michelle Hundley, physician’s assistant Shawna McElroy, and family nurse practitioner Adam Zerr accepted positions outside the North Fork area. As a result of staff shortages, the Hotchkiss office is currently closed. While the Paonia office is not accepting new patients, it is open four days a week, and closed either Wednesdays or Fridays. The office is staffed with two nurses, with a third nurse on temporary leave, receptionists, and two parttime medical records clerks. For now, the office does not provide X-ray services. Dr. Meilner said he is determined to keep the office open and is considering all options. He is currently seeking a corporate partnership that makes it possible to keep the doors open, to rehire more practitioners, and possibly reopen the Hotchkiss office. “Right now things are still up in the air,” said Meilner. “I really don’t know what’s going to happen.” Paonia Care and Rehabilitation, where Dr. Meilner has been the medical director for more than a decade, is partnering with the clinic to provide interim managerial and operational support staff. Administrator Loretha Barnes-Rolf and Melissa Johnson “have been so helpful,” said Meilner. North Fork Clinic patients needing an on-call doctor will get a response 24/7, thanks to a partnership that puts him and other area doctors in an on-call rotation. In the event urgent care is needed, a trip to the DCMH emergency room may be necessary. Closure of small, rural clinics is occurring on a national level and for a variety of reasons, said Meilner, from rising costs of education to complying with the Affordable Care Act. The cost of offering care providers a package that will allow them to work in a small town while earning a living

and covering massive college debt is increasingly difficult for small clinics. The clinic has been in operation for at least 60 years, and Dr. Meilner remains confident the doors can remain open. He and wife Shauna, a DCMH nurse, have roots in the valley and two children in high school. “Access to healthcare is an important community resource, especially when the closest hospital is 30 miles away,” said Dr. Meilner. “We very much appreciate the outpouring of support we’ve received as we weather yet another transition.” Added Dr. Meilner, “Our hearts are with the North Fork people. That’s what’s keeping us here.” Needlerock Family Health Clinic, 375 Elm Avenue in Crawford, is also open. Family nurse practitioner Jenny Mitchell and her staff provide all aspects of family care and are open Monday through Friday from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. They can be reached at 921-5501 or 921-5440 (fax).

Photo by Tamie Meck

Dr. Timothy Meilner wants North Fork residents to know that the Paonia ofﬁce of the North Fork Clinic is open for business. Meilner is working to ensure that the 60-year-old establishment remains open and is hopeful the Hotchkiss ofﬁce can reopen in the future.

B2 Wednesday, August 19, 2015

NORTH FORK TIMES

Delta County Independent

Benefit for Ray Penland to be held Saturday BY TAMIE MECK Staff Writer

A benefit dinner and dance for firefighter and longtime Hotchkiss resident Ray Penland will be held Saturday, Aug. 22, at the Hotchkiss Fire District headquarters, 193 Hotchkiss Avenue. Penland, a family man and the longtime assistant fire chief in charge of the Redlands Mesa Substation, was injured in a fall last spring while farming and is currently

unable to perform his duties. “It was a lifechanging event,” said John Sell with the HFD. The event runs from 7-9 p.m. A dinner of pork, spaghetti, dessert and

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beverages will be served from 5-7 p.m., followed by dancing and live music by North Fork Country from 7-9 p.m. Admission is by donation, with all proceeds going to help Penland cover costs associated with his recovery. Everyone is welcome. Reservations, which can be made at the “Ray Penland Benefit Dinner and Live Country Music” Facebook page, are appreciated. Or you can just show up. Penland has responded to all types of calls in his more than 25 years on the department, said Sell. “Ray is the kind of guy who would do anything for anybody. This is our way of saying thanks HFD photo for everything he’s done for us over the years.” Ray Penland

Photo by Tamie Meck

Larry Hicks, second from left, poses with seven ﬁrst responders among the estimated 37 people who helped save his life in the two and a half hours following a July 18 heart attack. From left, Hotchkiss Deputy Gates Shaklee, Hotchkiss Fire District volunteer Tyler Simpson, North Fork Ambulance EMT Sandy Leger, ﬁrst responder Caleb Schelle, NFA EMT Christopher Brown, and NFA EMT Doug Leger. The North Fork Ambulance will offer free CPR classes in September. For more information, contact outreach coordinator Dawnette Simpson at (970) 361-8489.

Life-saving acts

FROM PAGE B1 Schelle to take over. “These two guys really physically challenging and Atwell was already made a difference in that getting tired. He asked care,” said Kathy Steckel, executive director of North Fork Ambulance. “Statistics show that people stand a 30 percent better chance making it through this kind of event if they have early chest compressions.” Hotchkiss Fire District volunteers Tyler Simpson and Kaden Milstein were also among the first responders. Hotchkiss Deputy Gates Shaklee arrived with an automated external defibrillator, or AED, which he carries in his patrol car and is trained to use. He used the device to briefly return Hicks’ heart to a normal rhythm. That step, wrote Henwood, probably saved Hicks’ life. Dr. Henwood went on to describe how North Fork Ambulance volunteers Marvin Gaule, Debbie Leger, Doug Leger, and new EMT Sandy Leger arrived, evaluated Hicks, assisted in CPR, and attached a Lucas 2 automatic compression device to his chest. En route to DCMH they ren�� dezvoused with Delta �� County Ambulance Dis�� trict members Marvin Pemberton and Ben �� Mulshausen, who fur�� ther assessed Hicks and �� administered medica�� tions. Once in the emergency room, an entire �� team worked to stabilize his heart. A very long 66 �� minutes later he opened his eyes, wrote Henwood. “There were nurses, respiratory therapists, radiology technicians, laboratory technicians and physicians working hard to further stabilize your heart.”

Will What’s Happening in California Stay in California? ��

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Hicks was then transported to St. Mary’s Hospital in Grand Junction, where a whole new team took over his care. Marshal Miller said that only one in nine people survive the type of heart attack that struck Hicks that day. “That’s not very good odds,” said Miller. Since early care is crucial to saving a life following a heart attack, “he beat the odds because so many people in this community cared.” “To be touched by 37 souls so dedicated and caring in one day does not happen very often,” wrote Henwood. “I would guess that all those people feel lucky, too, that they were able to help save a life.” Schelle and his friends went to his house to play ping-pong and wait for news on Hicks. He received a call from one of the waitresses at Zack’s that Larry was going to be okay. This was the first time Schelle actually performed CPR, and he’s grateful to Cocker that he knew CPR. “I hope I don’t have to use it again,” said Schelle, a second-year mechanical engineering student at Colorado School of Mines. He will renew his three-year CPR certification next year. Schelle said he doesn’t feel like a hero. “I feel like anyone that had the certification would have done the same thing... I feel lucky that I was there and was certified.” As for anyone considering CPR certification, “I would just recommend that you do it,” said Schelle. “It’s good to have. Hopefully you’ll never have to use it, but in the off chance that you do, it pays off 100 times.”

NORTH FORK TIMES

Delta County Independent

Wednesday, August 19, 2015

School, mother at odds over daughter’s enrollment BY TAMIE MECK Staff Writer

Angie Watson wants her daughter to have a chance at a normal life. Alexis Watson, 13, was born with a rare chromosome irregularity, 4p-11p maternity Trisomy, and communicates through simple words, gestures, and American Sign Language. Watson said she is one of two survivors of the abnormality in the world. “We try to live as typical a life as we can within her chromosome abnormality,” said Watson. In an effort to give her some semblance of normality, Watson moved from the Salt Lake City area to Hotchkiss this summer in search of a school that would accept her as a traditional first grade student. In Utah, Alexis went through two schools and eight years of special needs programming. The system didn’t have much hope for her, said Watson. During her eighth year in the public school system, Alexis, then enrolled in sixth grade, started showing signs of increased reading and verbalization skills. Watson then requested an alternative placement to allow her to learn to read and write at her level of ability. She believes that if her daughter can be

immersed in a first grade classroom setting, she will have more opportunity to learn. School officials told her no, that they would allow Alexis to enroll in a sixth grade special needs classroom, and that she needed to be socialized with kids her age. “I grudgingly accepted it,” said Watson. “I felt like it was my only option.” Last year, an exasperated Watson homeschooled her daughter while researching other options. After moving to

Hotchkiss she found the North Fork Montessori School in Crawford, and took Alexis to the Aug. 10 registration. For both, said Watson, it was the first time to attend a “typical registration.” School staff and administration were very welcoming and positive, said Watson. “I miraculously found a school that would support her. That school is a dream come true. It’s not just a school that’s saying yes, it’s a Montessori school, the curriculum, the way they focus on unique individu-

Photo by Tamie Meck

Angie Watson of Hotchkiss gives the American Sign Language gesture for “photography” to 13-year-old daughter Alexis. Watson moved to Hotchkiss in search of a school that will accept Alexis, who was born with a rare chromosome disorder, as a traditional ﬁrst grade student.

North Fork Rotary, Paonia Library dedicate gazebo BY TAMIE MECK Staff Writer

Representatives from the Paonia Library and Rotary Club of the North Fork dedicated the log gazebo located on the north side of the library grounds last Thursday. The structure, designed by former Rotary president and architect Norm Luark, and was constructed of almost all local products and ageold, time-tested methods. Rotary donations and donations from individual Rotarians paid for much of the project. “I can’t even imagine the hours that he spent working on the project from start to finish,” said current Rotary president Marsha Grant. “It was a huge undertaking.” Luark said he wanted to contribute something

unique to the community. He approached the library three years ago about creating a place where children’s reading clubs could gather and enjoy the out-of-doors. The original model took about as long to make as the full-sized structure. “It was just a remarkable experience,” said Luark. Luark has an architecture degree from CU Denver and had to relearn some of the trigonometry formulas used in the design. The mortise and tenon joinery used has been in existence for thousands of years. The gazebo contains almost no nails or screws, and special hand tools were used to cut the tenons. Buildings still in existence using these methods have remained stand-

ing for hundreds of years, said Luark. The list of individuals who contributed to the project is long and includes four Paonia High School students. They dedicated one day a week to construction and problem-solving, including how to build the structure to withstand the tests of time without the use of screws and nails. Luark gave special thanks to PHS student Chelsy Reed, who not only helped during the school year, but showed up every week during the summer of 2014, after she graduated. “Chelsy made a great contribution,” said Luark. A table donated recently by the Friends of the Paonia Library provides a place to sit in the shade and read.

als.” Watson said she was told by principal Bill Eyler that Alexis would need an IEP, or Individual Education Plan to determine a starting point. She was also referred to Sandie Jungers, district director of special education, whom she said told her that Alexis would likely be enrolled in fifth grade in a special needs program, which is basically what she left behind in Utah. The Delta County School District’s policy appears to be very clear on the matter. Assistant superintendent Kurt Clay said Watson is welcome to enroll Alexis in school. However, said Clay, the district can’t, by policy, enroll any student in grades lower than already completed. “We can’t take a sixth grade student back, by policy,” said Clay. “However, we can, absolutely,” meet their educational and social needs. Watson believes there is confusion within the educational system as to what is “age-appropriate” for her daughter. “My problem is, why are we pushing these developmentally delayed kids through the system so fast?” said Watson. “Why can’t we apply those years to a good, strong foundation?” She has researched laws, “and what I was asking seemed to fit right in with all the laws and federal regulations.” The Rehabilitation Act of 1973 prohibits discrimination based on disabilities by any program receiving federal assistance. Specifically, Section 504 of the act requires educational and other services to ensure that individuals receive “the educational services they need to succeed in school” (www.disability.gov), and trumps the district’s deci-

sion, said Watson. “The district wants each individual student’s needs to be met,” said Clay, “but we also have policies and procedures we have to follow.” After sharing her story, a local individual offered to petition for Alexis and her cause, and collected more than 100 signatures in Hotchkiss. He was also petitioning in the Paonia area. Watson said she understands the petitions

probably won’t make a difference, but she wants others to know about her plight in hopes that it will benefit her daughter and others. For now, Watson said she has registered Alexis at Hotchkiss K-8 school and is awaiting an IEP team meeting. In the meantime, she said, “I will keep an open mind and see what they have to offer while exploring other options.”

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It’s Back To School Time Please Drive Carefully!

You’re in the driver’s seat . . . and our students are depending on you for their safety! Photo by Tamie Meck

From left, Rotary Club of the North Fork president Marsha Grant, former president Norm Luark, and Delta County Libraries district director Annette Choszczyk celebrate the Aug. 13 dedication of the gazebo at the Paonia Library. The gazebo, designed by Luark, is a mortise and tenon design and contains almost no nails or screws.

Paonia grad joins Teach for America anniversary corps Teach For America announced last week that a Paonia local has been accepted into the organization’s 2015 teaching corps. Teach For America is a national non-profit working to expand educational opportunity for students in low-income communities. Corps members commit to teach in high-need urban or rural public schools and become lifelong advocates for educational equity. Brittani Venard, a 2009 graduate of Paonia High School and a 2013 graduate of University of Northern Colorado, will

teach in Memphis. In our country’s lowest-income communities, just 6 percent of students will graduate college by the time they’re 25. Brittani joins a network of 50,000 corps members and alumni working alongside parents, principals and communities for positive change. “It is with incredible excitement we welcome this group of remarkable and diverse corps members,” said Elisa Villanueva Beard, co-CEO of Teach For America. “They join a group of 50,000 leaders who have raised

their hand to be part of ensuring every child has access to an excellent and equitable education.” Over the past 25 years, thousands of talented individuals have launched or continued careers in social justice through Teach For America. Alumni have gone on to become leaders in politics, school systems, non-profit work, advocacy and more. Together, they form a nationwide network helping to expand and strengthen the movement to give all kids access to a great education.

Be on the lookout for students and teach your children “street smarts” before sending them off to school. • Never pass a stopped bus when it is picking up or unloading children. • Watch for children in residential areas and around school zones. • Obey all speed limits, trafﬁc lights and stop signs. • Teach your children to ALWAYS look both ways before crossing the street. • Children should be met at the bus stop by a parent, neighbor or older sibling. (Reminder: Once a child has exited the bus, it is the parents’ responsibility to ensure their child’s safety.) • Make sure your child knows never to accept rides from strangers.

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B4 Wednesday, August 19, 2015

NORTH FORK TIMES

Delta County Independent

North Fork Pool celebrates successful season BY TAMIE MECK Staff Writer

The staff of the North Fork Pool in Hotchkiss gathered Friday to celebrate a successful season, to honor their lifeguards and swim instructors, and to thank three longtime staff members who are retiring. Swim classes were completely filled this year, according to Lenore Cambria, who replaces Esther Koontz as district administrator of the North Fork Pool, Parks & Recreation District. Koontz retired

in June with 14 years of service. Pool manager Ray Cranor also retired after 17 years of service, and Wendell “Butch” Widner, head of maintenance since 2000, also retired. A plaque honoring Cranor, Widner and Koontz “for their dedication and years of service” will be permanently displayed at the pool, and each retiree was presented with a plaque. The pool’s 17 lifeguards were also honored, along with swim instructors

Emblem conference deemed a success Hotchkiss Emblem Club met Monday, July 6. Monthly reports were given. Under old business, a discussion was held regarding the convention held in Hotchkiss in June. It seemed to be a success. Attendance was down some but all present seemed to enjoy it. Bill Watson entertained us on Saturday

with some fun “saw” music. Jean Ceriani, PAC, gave a talk on diabetes. Under new business, members talked about new moneymaking projects. We are to think on it and come back in August with suggestions. Gwen Carpenter Press correspondent

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Jessie Violett, Judy Coyle, Glenda Young, Echo Miller-Barnes, Nilam Hypio and Annie Stechert, and water safety supervisor Kathi White. The pool is closed weekdays for the remainder of the season and is open weekends during regular hours through Sept. 6. The final day of operations is scheduled for Labor Day, Monday, Sept. 7. Family swim sessions are Saturdays from 5-8 p.m. and Sundays from 1-5 p.m. Visit www.northfork recreation.com for details. At the end of the season the facility will upgrade its equipment and paint the pool, said Cambria. The NFPPR board consists of Ulrich Lange, chairman, vice chairman Kathryn Oxford, secretary Teresa Driscoll and treasurer Ken Butcher. The board meets at 7 p.m. the third Monday of each month at the district office, 333 Bulldog Street, Hotchkiss.

Photo by Tamie Meck

The staff of the North Fork Pool celebrated a successful season Friday. Pictured are (back row, from left) Darrin Young, Nolan Egging, Annie Stechert, Nick Cambria, Clayton Oxford, Echo Miller-Barnes, Katy Parsons, Mariah Young, Eddie Cambria; (middle row) Glenda Young, Jessie Violett, Nilam Hypio, Judy Coyle, Josie Hiatt, Brittney Thliveris; (front row) Roy Cranor, Esther Koontz, Teresa Driscoll, Kathryn Oxford, Lenore Cambria. Cranor, Koontz, and Butch Widner (not pictured) all retired from the pool and were honored for their years of service. Also not pictured: lifeguards Patrick Kelleher, Lene Meneley and Brooke Hillman, and water safety supervisor Kathi White.

Monks share culture during visit said Mary Hockenbery, ing the monks would be talk on the culture and owner of the Church of in the area the same day. teachings of the monasSix Tibetan monks, Art. She had planned a They performed a bless- tery, and held a question scholars from the Gaden street party before learning of the gallery, gave a and answer session. Shartse Monastery, spent last week in the North Fork Valley, raising awareness of their culture while experiencing the local culture. Tibetan monks have been visiting the North Fork area since 1977. This group was sponsored by Bob and Candy Penetta and was raising money to clothe, house and scholar the students of the monastery, which was once funded by the people. The monasteries of Tibet lost funding when the country’s economy was destroyed following the 1950 invaPhoto by Tamie Meck sion by China. Their spiritual leader, His Holiness Geshe Phuntsock, left, a monk from the Gaden Shartse Monastery in India, the 14th Dalai Lama, creates a sculpture of butter and oatmeal while Konchock Jampa describes the was exiled in 1959 and process, symbolism and two centuries of culture associated with the sculpture and Tibetan art Friday at the Church of Art in Hotchkiss. The monks were in the remains in exile today. While here, the North Fork area last week, offering blessings and sharing their culture. monks held a White Tara Empowerment ceremony at the Hotchkiss Yoga Tree, gave a lecture on climate change at the four walls, the ability to audit at the Sept. 8 trustPaonia Library, and held FROM PAGE B1 a butter sculpture dem- neighbors growing can- be locked, and for plants ee meeting. Unless there onstration Friday evening nabis. When checking on to be covered, which is are issues to clean up or at the Church of Art in complaints, they are find- where most people are out clarify, trustees may vote ing that many grow areas of compliance, said Fer- to approve the audit at Hotchkiss. “I am so grateful to Bob are not in compliance with guson. The department is that meeting, said Berry. The town is also in negofor bringing them here,” state laws, which require allowing 10 days to comply with the laws before tiation with Rubin Brown issuing citations. “We’re for a possible additional trying to make sure that cost of $10,000 for the everybody’s compliant audit, “given the extenwith that and have a lock, sive work and research for their own safety as that was done,” said Berry. well as town safety,” said The town entered a threeFerguson. year renewable contract There were also two with Rubin Brown, at an complaints of smoking at annual cost of $28,500. At the upcoming Aug. the Aug. 13 Pickin’ in the Park concert, but by the 25 trustee meeting, reptime officers arrived no resentatives from Deltaone was found to be smok- Montrose Electric Associaing. tion are expected to come In other business, before the board to give a trustees will hold a spe- presentation on efforts to cial meeting at 3 p.m. bring broadband access to Thursday, Aug. 27, to the area. The town is conallow the accounting firm sidering bringing a bal�� of Rubin Brown to pres- lot measure to opt out of �� ent its report on the 2014 Senate Bill 05-152, com�� financial audit. That dis- monly known as the open �� cussion will be limited to access bill, before voters �� accounting and town rep- for the November general election. Trustees are conresentatives. According to Berry, the sidering a vote on the balpublic will have an oppor- lot issue at the Aug. 25 tunity to comment on the meeting.

BY TAMIE MECK Staff Writer

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�� Your Christian Prepping Headquarters and Home of the Noah Project.

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Paonia

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Photo by Tamie Meck

Paonia town manager Jane Berry addresses trustees and town staff Saturday at a budget planning retreat at Paonia Town Hall. The retreat was open to the public and designed to bring ideas to the table that can beneﬁt the town in the coming one to ﬁve years. While no public comment was taken, results of the brainstorming session will be presented at a future trustee meeting.

OBITUARIES

Delta County Independent

James Hunt

James Paul Hunt of Olathe died Aug. 13, 2015, at his home. He was 63. He was born in San Antonio, Texas, Feb. 28, 1952, to Donald and Carol (Choquette) Hunt. He grew up and attended school in Texas. After high school, he served in the U.S. Army, 82nd Airborne Division. He moved to Colorado after he was discharged. He married Barbara Dodge June 28, 1975, in Montrose. They lived in Montrose where they were youth leaders at First Baptist Church of Montrose and shared the gospel through music and song. They moved to California, Kansas and Washington before returning to Montrose and helping with music with Rev. and Mrs. Mel Dreessen, traveling in rural southwest Colorado and southeast Utah in after school Bible clubs. Their last move was to Olathe in 1996. Mr. Hunt worked as an electrician and in various areas of construction. He enjoyed playing the guitar, hunting and camping on the Uncompahgre Plateau, gardening and spending time with his family. He is survived by his wife, Barbara of Olathe; his sons, Jacob (Kristie) Hunt of Hotchkiss and Titus Hunt of Anchorage, Alaska; his daughter, Kezia (Erik) Colnick of Frederick; a sister, Lee Ann (Robert) Mora of Dallas, Texas; two grandchildren, Ian Brophy and Benjamin Hunt; and extended family. He was preceded in death by a son, Jeremiah Hunt; a sister, Theresa Hicks; and his parents. A memorial service will be held at 10 a.m., Saturday, Aug. 22, at Crossroads Victory Worship Center in Montrose. Crippin Funeral Home and Crematory is handling the arrangements.

Angeline Urich Helmericks

Delta resident Angeline Urich Helmericks died Thursday, Aug. 13, 2015, at Colorow Care Center in Olathe. She was 84. Rosary will be recited at 10 a.m., Friday, Aug. 21, at St. Michael Catholic Church. Mass of the Resurrection will follow at 10:30. Inurnment will be held at a later date in Duncan, Iowa, next to her husband, Clement Urich. Angeline L. Meier was born March 1, 1931, to Frank and Veronica Meier. On March 31, 1951, she married Clement Urich. He preceded her

in death. She later married John Helmericks; he preceded her in death. Mrs. Helmericks lived in Garner, Iowa, and Eckert before moving to Delta in 1991. She cooked for many years at the Delta Senior Citizen Center. She was a member of St. Michael Catholic Church, the Rosary Society and the craft club. She enjoyed her family, cooking and craftwork. Mrs. Helmericks is survived by three sons, Gerald (Rita) Urich of Austin, Tony (Sue) Urich of Garner, Iowa, and Bonaven (Joyce) Urich of Delta; five daughters, Veronica (Oly) Maas of Crystal Lake, Iowa, Yvonne (Carlos) Viscarra of Des Moines, Iowa, Nancy Horstman of Britt, Iowa, Karen (Mark) Beasley of Ocean Springs, Miss., and Marge (Charles) Langhoff of Peyton; a brother, Francis Meier of Elma, Iowa; a sister, Agnes Hidding of Elma, Iowa; a sister-in-law, Marion Liska of Albert Lea, Minn.; 25 grandchildren; and 31 great-grandchildren. She was preceded in death by her husbands, Clement Urich and John Helmericks; a son, Bernard; and a grandson, Connor Brunsen. Memorial contributions may be made to St. Michael Catholic Church, 628 Meeker St., Delta, CO 81416. Taylor Funeral Service and Crematory is handling the arrangements. View the Internet obituary and sign the online guest registry at taylor funeralservice.com.

Taylor Funeral Service and Crematory handled the arrangements. View the Internet obituary and sign the online guest registry at taylor funeralservice.com.

Virginia Schocknmyer

Former North Fork area resident Virginia Schocknmyer died of Alzheimer’s July 29, 2015. She was 75. She was born in 1939 to Samuel and Ruby Pennington. The family lived in the Paonia, Somerset and Ragged Mountain areas for many years. Mrs. Schocknmyer is survived by her husband, Emil Schocknmyer; four children, Dwayne (Lori) Schocknmyer, Jerry (Pam) Schocknmyer, Betty Sue Stoffle and Brenda (Charlie) Bennett; two sisters, Louise Borich and Ana Mae Carpenter; one brother, Johnny Pennington; eight grandchildren, Maggie, Jamie, Colby, Corey, Taylor, Courtney, Brendan and Dylan; nine great-grandchildren; and extended family. She was preceded in death by a sister-in-law, Jenni Pennington and a brother-in-law, Claude Carpenter. A memorial service was held Aug. 10 at Spanish Valley Memorial Gardens Cemetery in Moab, Utah. Arrangements were handled by Spanish Valley Mortuary.

Merle Brew

Olathe resident Merle E. Brew died Friday, Aug. 14, 2015, at his home in Olathe. He was 89. A funeral service was held Tuesday, Aug. 18 at Taylor Funeral Service Chapel in Delta with Paul Nystrom officiating. Interment followed at Mesa View Cemetery. Mr. Brew was born in Olathe Sept. 23, 1925, to Cecil and Irene (Paxton) Brew. He graduated from Olathe High School. On Feb. 8, 1948, he married Eleanor Kettle in Austin. They celebrated their 67th wedding anniversary in February. Mr. Brew was a life member of Delta Elks Lodge #1235. He enjoyed farming, flying planes, prospecting, old steam locomotives, four-wheeling in his Jeep, and spending time with family and friends. He is survived by a son, Wayne Brew; a daughter, Merlene Brew; a grandson, Quinn Archibeque, all of Delta; greatgrandchildren, Morgan Archibeque of Cedaredge and Steven Archibeque of Colorado Springs; and two brothers, Kenneth and Robert Brew, both of Pea Green. Mr. Brew was preceded in death by his wife, Eleanor; a sister, JoAnn Anders; and a grandson, Douglas Archibeque. Memorial contributions may be made to HopeWest, P.O. Box 24, Delta, CO 81416.

guez, Ariza Dominguez and Caesar Henrie; and extended family. He was preceded in death by his brother, Chris West. Taylor Funeral Service and Crematory is handling the arrangements. View the Internet obituary and sign the online guest registry at taylor funeralservice.com.

Rick West

Richard “Rick” Lee West of Paonia died Monday, Aug. 17, 2015, at Delta County Memorial Hospital. He was 52. Services will be held at 2 p.m. Friday, Aug. 21, at Friends Church in Paonia with Pastor Gaylen Kinser officiating. Mr. West was born in Pueblo Jan. 17, 1963, to Billy and Josephine (Landis) West. He grew up in Delta and graduated from Delta High School in 1981. He graduated from Phoenix Institute of Technology in 1983. He lived in Paonia for the past 30 years. He was manager for Radio Shack West Home Centers until it closed. He enjoyed playing poker, riding his Harley, hunting, fishing and working on his property. Mr. West is survived by his parents, Bill and Josie West of Delta; three daughters, Brandi West of Delta, Alia “Cass” Lopas West of Rifle and Bambii Henrie of Grand Junction; a son, Codie Clawson of Paonia; six grandchildren, Ezekeal West, Nayeli Sanchez, Sada Wright, Kylee Domin-

Alberta Sage

Former Delta resident Alberta Sage died Thursday, Aug. 13, 2015, at her home in Longmont. She was 93. Alberta Marie Curtin was born in Bear Creek Township, Ill., March 25, 1922, to Henry and Helena (Spresser) Curtin. She graduated from Sacred Heart Academy in 1940 and St. John’s School of Nursing in 1943. She enlisted in the U.S. Army Nurse Corps in 1944. She married Clinton Sage on Sept. 15, 1947. They lived in Taylorville, Ill., before moving to Colorado in 1961. They lived in Colorado Springs, Wheat Ridge, Delta and Grand Junction. Mrs. Sage moved to Longmont after Clinton’s death in 2008. Mrs. Sage practiced nursing in various areas including private duty, maternity and emergency room. She enjoyed sewing, gardening, farming with her husband, and canning and freezing their produce. Mrs. Sage is survived by her sisters, Doris Castagno and Sister Bernice O.P. (Martha Curtin); sons, Steve of Alamosa and Clifton of Medford, Ore.; daughter, Janet of Longmont; grandchildren, Christina (Steven) Dean of Frederick and Michael Fresquez of Fort Collins; and six greatgrandchildren. She was preceded in death by her husband, Clinton; brothers, Robert, Jim and Bruce; and a grandson, Jason Fresquez. A memorial service will be held at 9:30 a.m. Thursday, Aug. 20, in the chapel of St. John the Baptist Catholic Church, 323 Collyer Street, Longmont. Interment arrangements are pending. Memorial contributions may be sent to St. John the Baptist Catholic Church and School. Ahlberg Funeral Chapel is handling the arrangements.

Ken Morris

Grand Junction resident Kenney “Ken” S. Morris died Wednesday, Aug. 12, 2015, at St. Mary’s Hospital in Grand Junction. He was 79. Services will be held at 1 p.m. Saturday, Aug. 22, at Callahan-Edfast Mortuary, 2515 Patterson Road, Grand Junction. Mr. Morris was born in Willow, Okla., Jan. 4, 1936, to Firzell “Hap” and Georgia Morris. He attended high school in Capitan, N.M., and graduated from New Mexico Western College in Silver City, N.M. He lived in California and Texas for several

Business owners: Protect employees, customers from a potential allergic reaction Colorado law now allows authorized facilities to stock epinephrine auto-injectors to treat individuals believed to be experiencing anaphylaxis (a sudden, severe and sometimes fatal allergic reaction). Until now, only schools and hospitals were allowed to stock and administer this emergency medicine.

“Now Coloradans will be able to receive help more quickly if they experience an unexpected allergic reaction,” said Lynn Trefren, chief of the immunization branch at the Colorado Department of Public Health and Environment. “During the summer months, there is an increased chance of bee stings and

other potential allergens. At times, an anaphylactic reaction occurs unexpectedly without a known allergic trigger, and in rare cases that can result in death. Increased access to auto-injectors could counter a life-threatening allergic reaction.” Staff at facilities wanting to stock epinephrine auto-injectors must com-

plete a nationally recognized training course, and obtain the medication from a provider. Facilities will need to submit an online report each time they administer the medicine. To learn more about the requirements and training for a business to stock epinephrine autoinjectors, please visit the department’s webpage.

Wednesday, August 19, 2015

years and worked in the oil and gas industry. Mr. Morris lived in Paonia for 26 years where he worked for TDS Telecom until retirement. He moved to Grand Junction 10 years ago. He was a member of Bookcliff Baptist Church. He enjoyed hunting, ranching and airplanes. He is survived by his wife of 41 years, Jeanie Morris of Grand Junction; his daughter, Laurie Sayward of San Diego, Calif.; his son, Joe (Melinda) Martin Sr. of Spring, Texas; a sister, Ruth (Jim) Pierce of Lincoln, Neb.; a sister-in-law, Linda Morris of Lufkin, Texas; and four grandchildren, Stacey Sayward, Joe Martin Jr., Charles Martin and Justin Martin; and extended family. He was preceded in death by a brother, Don Morris. Memorial contributions may be made to Benevolence Fund, Bookcliff Baptist Church, 2702 Patterson Rd., Grand Junction, CO 81506; or the American Heart Association. Callahan-Edfast Mortuary is handling the arrangements.

Edna Aldridge

Cedaredge. Interment will follow at Cederedge Cemetery. Edna Gertrude Core was born in Santa Fe, N.M., Feb. 7, 1919, to Ira and Stella (Sawyers) Core. The family later lived in Arkansas, where she started school. They moved to a ranch on Horse Fly Mesa near Ridgway when she was 7 years old, then to Cedaredge where she finished school and lived until her death. She married Charles Aldridge Dec. 6, 1936, in Eckert. Mrs. Aldridge was a homemaker and farm wife. She raised a large garden every year and preserved the produce. She enjoyed being a wife, mother and grandmother, fishing and picnicking on Grand Mesa. She was a member of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latterday Saints. She volunteered at Pioneer Town in Cedaredge for several years. Mrs. Aldridge is survived by three daughters, G. Ann Aldridge, Lenda (Dan) Geolfos and Ricky Lea Aldridge; one son, Bud (Sue) Aldridge; one brother, Ira Core; 12 grandchildren; 34 greatgrandchildren; and 16 great-great-grandchildren. She was preceded in death by her husband of 53 years, Charles Aldridge in 1989; a daughter, Edna “Dolly” in 1956; and two brothers. Taylor Funeral Service and Crematory is handling the arrangements. View the Internet obituary and sign the online guest registry at taylor funeralservice.com.

Myrna Webster

Edna Aldridge of Cedaredge died Aug. 14, 2015, at Willow Tree Care Center in Delta. She was 96. Funeral services will be held at 10 a.m., Thursday, Aug. 20, at The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints in

Myrna E. Webster of Paonia died Aug. 14, 2015, at Valley Manor Care Center. A memorial is planned for 10 a.m., Saturday, Aug. 29, at Apple Valley Park in Paonia. A reception for friends and family will follow at her home in Paonia.

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The Delta County Independent publishes engagements, anniversaries and wedding stories free of charge.

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B6 Wednesday, August 19, 2015

HEALTH & FITNESS

Delta County Independent

Breastfeeding when returning to work BY KIMBERLEE ECKHART, RN, BSN Certified Lactation Counselor

Photo submitted

Longtime employee

Tricia Tuin was recently recognized for 30 years of employment at Delta County Memorial Hospital.

Deciding to breastfeed is easy. The benefits are undisputed; however, for the working mom this decision can cause some issues that can be overcome with some planning. Breastfeeding mothers have less cancer, less postpartum depression, fewer cases of diabetes, fewer heart attacks and more weight loss after pregnancy. Babies have fewer infections, less asthma, less obesity, less leukemia and fewer cases of Sudden Infant Deaths (SIDS).

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Current evidencebased studies show that avoiding the introduction of a pacifier and bottle for the first three weeks will help establish breastfeeding and an adequate milk supply. For the working mother, it is recommended to introduce an occasional bottle of pumped breast milk when the baby is between three to four weeks old. Often, this is easiest on both mother and baby when a person other than the mother gives the bottle. The baby’s mouth is the best “pump” for breastfeeding. Hand expressing is the next best method to remove breast milk. When this technique is

practiced, the mother is able to empty the breast more efficiently than with a pump. At Delta County Memorial Hospital Stork’s Landing we teach all new mothers the hand expressing technique. A few weeks before the mother needs to return to work, or school, or if she simply needs a night out, then she can start collecting breast milk and freezing a supply. The best time to hand express or pump is after the baby has eaten. Remember that the amount removed will be less than the amount the baby gets because of the efficiency of the baby’s mouth at sucking. Once the mother has

returned to work, she needs to keep her milk supply sufficient by hand expressing or pumping every two and a half to three hours, or as fre-

quently as the baby would be eating. She can feed the baby right before leaving for work, then again as soon as she is reunited with her baby after work. It is important for the employer to support the mother’s breast milk collection since breast milk keeps the baby healthier, therefore allowing the mother to miss less work due to a sick infant. Anyone with questions regarding hand expressing, pumping or storage of breast milk is welcome to contact one of the certified lactation counselors at Stork’s Landing at Delta County Memorial Hospital at 874-2255.

Recovering from surgery or injury BY MELISSA WDOWIK, PhD, RDN calories to lose weight, it ed to get the essential whole grains. Colorado State University

After a recent hip replacement, it seems everyone I talk to has a story about a surgery or injury that has them anxious to get back to their favorite activities. My own research into optimal nutrition for healing provided me the inspiration to share tips so you, too, can be as healthy as ever. The first part of your diet to pay attention to for healing and recovery is calories. While this is not the time to cut back on

is also not the time to fill up on “empty calories,” or foods that provide little vitamins, minerals, and other nutrients. Make all your choices count, and plan ahead to make sure you have wholesome foods on hand to provide you with at least three meals and one to two snacks throughout the day. Think fruits, vegetables, yogurt, lean proteins and whole grains rather than chips, cookies, and box dinners. Next, be sure to include adequate protein at each meal and snack. Protein provides the building blocks for muscle repair, tissue mending and collagen formation, in addition to being a key tool for fighting infection and maintaining fluid balance. Good protein sources include meat, poultry, eggs, dairy (or fortified nondairy substitutes such as soy, coconut and almond milk), beans, lentils, soy and fish. Speaking of fish, fish oils are especially important for recovery from brain injuries, such as concussions. Eating two to three servings of fish each week is recommend-

fatty acids EPA and DHA your central nervous system needs. Also be sure to drink enough fluids. It is not unusual for patients to feel fatigued after surgery or injury due to dehydration. Water is your best option, while sports drinks, coffee, tea, milk and juice can contribute toward your daily goal of eight or more cups of fluids. Other important nutrients for recuperation include: • Vitamin C from fruits and vegetables. • Zinc from meat, poultry, seafood, beans and nuts. • Vitamin A from fortified dairy/nondairy products and breakfast cereals. • Beta-carotene (which your body makes into vitamin A as needed) from dark green leafy vegetables and deep orange fruit and vegetables. • Vitamin D from fish, mushrooms and fortified products such as dairy or dairy substitutes, orange juice and breakfast cereals. • Copper from nuts, beans, shellfish and

• B vitamins from whole grains, lean meat, fruits and vegetables. Lastly, you may be wondering if there are foods you should avoid during this recovery period. Limit refined sugars, as they cause inflammation in your tissues (while you are aiming for antiinflammatories) and often cause fatigue due to ups and downs in blood sugar levels. Refined sugars are found in many packaged foods and are especially prevalent in soda, juice drinks and energy drinks; remember that water is a better choice than these beverages. While I wish there was a supplement that worked magically on healing our joints, tissues and scars, there is really no better option than a well-balanced diet with attention to the nutrients and foods listed above. Best of luck in your recovery! Melissa Wdowik, PhD, RDN, is an assistant professor at Colorado State University in the Department of Food Science and Human Nutrition, and director of the Kendall Anderson Nutrition Center.

Children required to be vaccinated for school

Colorado law requires that children going to school be immunized against vaccine-preventable disease. Colorado follows the immunization schedule approved

by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) and other physician groups which recommend that health care providers follow the schedule known as the Advisory Committee on Immunization Practices or the ACIP schedule. Students who have not been vaccinated according to the ACIP schedule in the past will need to get up to date on immmunizations that give the best protection against vaccine-preventable disease. Changes that some parents may notice for the 2015-16 school year include: • Two doses of Varicella (chickenpox) vaccine are now required for all K-12 grade students. • Three doses of Hepatitis B vaccine must follow correct spacing between vaccines as well as correct ages. • MMR and Varicella — first doses must be given no more than four days before the first birthday. If vaccine is given more than four days before the first birthday it is not valid and is to be repeated. Please take your child’s updated immunization records to the school each time your child receives an immunization. NEW: House Bill 141288 was passed in May 2014 and requires schools and child care centers to calculate immunization and exemption rates for their enrolled students. Anyone can now call the school and ask for those rates. Many parents, especially those with children too young to be vaccinated or whose child can’t be vaccinated due to a medical issue, can learn which schools are best protected against vaccinepreventable disease. A resource developed

for parents with frequently asked questions about the safety and importance of vaccines can be located at www. ImmunizeForGood.com. The Colorado Department of Public Health and Environment’s immunization website is located at www.Colorado Immunizations.com. In lieu of a completed certificate of immunization, parents or guardians will need to provide a medical, religious or personal exemption. Immunization requirements will be strictly enforced for all students. Students who do not meet the requirements will be denied attendance according to Colorado Revised Statutes 25-4-902.

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5 years of service

Georgia Lujan (above left) and Juan Barajas were recently recognized for ﬁve years of service at Delta County Memorial Hospital.

HEALTH & FITNESS

Delta County Independent

Wednesday, August 19, 2015

Cancer, exercise and survivorship BY MARK LEACH, MS

Clinical Exercise Physiologist, Cardiac & Pulmonary Rehabilitation Coordinator

The big “C,” cancer — the word can make the hairs on your arm stand up. The American Cancer Society projects there will be approximately 850,000 new cases of cancer diagnosed in 2015. Over 52,000 of these will be people younger than 45 years old and the remaining 800,000 or so will be 45 and older, with approximately 480,000 of these being 65 years and older. According to statistics released in 2015 by the American Cancer Society, a trend is noted from 2009-2011 that males now have a one in two chance of developing some form of cancer, with a one in four chance of it becoming fatal. Females have a one in three chance of developing some form of cancer,

with a one in five chance of fatality. Cancer, according to the American College of Sports Medicine (ACSM), is a term used to describe hundreds of diseases that share the common feature of uncontrolled, abnormal growth and proliferation of cells, which in some cases can spread to distant anatomical sites (called metastasis). Treatment options for cancer include surgery, radiation, chemotherapy and immunotherapy. These treatments are designed to cure or to control the spread of the disease as well as to relieve symptoms. Cancer is thought to be “cured” when remission is considered to be permanent, but some may be considered cured if there is no recurrence for five years after treatment. Virtually all individu-

als with cancer can benefit from cancer rehabilitation and exercise. The goals of therapy vary depending on where a patient is in their treatment. The response to exercise to a cancer patient is also influenced by whether the patient has local or metastatic disease as well as the side effects of the particular form of treatment. With this in mind, exercise programming must be individualized to the person’s specific needs by an exercise professional who understands the disease and your needs. Patients who currently have cancer, as well as cancer survivors, often have some physical limitations caused by either the disease or the treatment that can pose challenges to exercise performance. Exercise is safe, how-

Dr. Huun joins Internal Medicine Associates Mark A. Huun, MD brings 24 years of internal medicine experience in group practice settings from the Denver metro area to Internal Medicine Associates, which is owned and operated by Delta County Memorial Hospital in Delta. Dr. Huun is board certified in internal medicine with continuing medical education in geriatrics, rheumatology, neurology, endocrinology, cardiology and internal medicine. He also has advanced training and experience in reading pre-operative EKGs. Dr. Huun received awards for outstanding management of hypertension and outstanding EKS assessment by Colorado Permanente Medical Group (CMPG – Kaiser. He also earned high patient satisfaction ratings from Kaiser. He earned honors in biological sciences for his

Dr. Huun is accepting new patients. Also accepting new patients are: Angela Morris, family nurse practitioner certified, advanced and Heather Ford, adult geriatric nurse practitioner at Internal Medicine Associates, 1450 Burgess Street in Delta. Call 8747668 for appointments or go online to the Delta County Memorial Hospital website, deltahospital. Dr. Mark Huun org for a new patient undergraduate degree application. from University of California at Davis, and his doctor of medicine from Tulane School of Medicine in New Orleans, La. Dr. Huun’s residency and an internship were at Presbyterian/St. Luke’s Medical Center in Denver. Dr Huun believes it is important for primary care physicians to help patients navigate the sea of information available to them and give practical, quality advice. Photo submitted

Returning home after a hospital stay Discover what services and supports are available to help you return home after a stay in the hospital or nursing home (rehab). Region 10 and Touch of Care Home Care will present an informa-

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15 years of service

Kim Eckhart (left) recently completed 15 years of employment at Delta County Memorial Hospital.

tional session Tuesday, Sept. 15, noon to 1 p.m. at Region 10, 300 N. Cascade Avenue, Montrose. Learn what questions to ask the discharge planners and social workers, how to pre-plan your return before you are having surgery, and what equipment you might need. Don’t wait for the crisis — plan ahead and learn what is available beforehand. Registration is required. Register online at http://www.region10. net/calendar/ or contact Amy Rowan at 765-3123.

Contact the DCI: Website: www.deltacountyindependent.com

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E-mail articles and letters to the editor at:

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20-year employee

Vicki Hovey (left) is congratulated on 20 years of employment at Delta County Memorial Hospital.

ever, and can be beneficial for cancer patients when suited to the specific characteristics of the person. The goals of training should include maintenance of muscle strength, endurance and a level of functional capacity. The goal should be a return to a former level of physical and psychological function. Regular, moderate-intensity aerobic exercise during cancer therapy results in the maintenance of body weight, improved mood, less severity of side effects, improved aerobic capacity and a higher quality of life (ACSM). “Slow and steady” is a good way to start an exercise program with slow progression as you improve in physical ability. A combination of aerobic and resistance training has the potential to improve balance and bone remodeling to reduce muscle weakness and the muscle wasting effects of the drugs (glucocorticoids) that are often part of the treatment regimen. Regular exercise in individuals with cancer has shown improvements in shoulder range of motion, flexibility, muscle strength, balance, decrease in treatment-related side effects (e.g., nausea, pain, fatigue), aerobic

capacity, weight control, body image, sense of control over depression, mood and quality of life (ACSM). Adults with cancer often have additional health concerns to consider such as heart disease, high blood pressure, diabetes, high cholesterol and obesity. These conditions can additionally influence the exercise programming and should be discussed with your oncologist as well as your primary care doctor and exercise professional. In addition, pain control is critical for the patient to be able to begin a basic exercise program.

Examples of the exercises that will be beneficial include a variety of aerobic conditioning, strength training, flexibility and functional tasks. The appropriate exercise programming should be performed by clinical exercise physiologists, physical therapists and occupational therapists. They are often found roaming the rehab centers in your local clinics and hospitals looking for an opportunity to put their skills to good use! Talk with your doctor and let’s get you started on your recovery and survivorship.

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B8 Wednesday, August 19, 2015

HEALTH & FITNESS

Delta County Independent

Students explore careers in health care owed physicians to learn about the different fields of medicine. They saw a family practice physician working in a clinic setting or observed an internist who specializes in cardiovascular stress tests. New this year was an additional focus on the field of nursing, both in the hospital and clinic settings. Jason Cleckler, hospital CEO, was excited to bring this experience so close to home for high school students in Delta County. “With all the health care reform, many medical students are moving on to specialized fields. However, there is a great need for primary care

BY RACHAEL RHODE Delta County Memorial Hospital

June 8-12 marked the second annual Summer Health Careers Institute for Delta County’s high school students. The program was offered to students by Delta County Joint School District, Delta County Economic Development and University of Colorado School of Medicine. This weeklong camp gave high school students an opportunity to gain hands-on experience in a rural health care environment. At Delta County Memorial Hospital, students toured several departments, including radiology and cardiopulmonary. They shad-

physicians and mid-level providers in rural areas, especially Delta County and the Western Slope. The shift in health care is to keep patients out of the hospital by providing preventative care and health and wellness through clinic-based providers. We want to expose Delta County students to the abundant career opportunities in rural medicine and hopefully impress upon them that small town health care can be very rewarding.” “Rural health is an important field,” said Ryann Nickerson, CU Denver. “Rural folks face gaps around care due to

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Hospital volunteers needed Delta County Memorial Hospital needs some additional hospital volunteers. Days and hours are flexible. If you have retail experience and would like to work in the hospital gift shop, or if you would like to work in some of the other hospital departments, please contact volunteer coordinator Joyce Picard at 874-3841.

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Delta County students learned about the many job opportunities in the medical ﬁeld at the second annual Summer Health Careers Institute. The program is a collaborative effort involving the University of Colorado School of Medicine.

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the affordability of insurance, cost of care, convenience/access to care, and health care professionals to provide care.” The program is available to high school students ages 16-18. Applications are available through high school counselors.

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A decade of service

Dawn Fredericks (right) recently celebrated 10 years of employment at Delta County Memorial Hospital.

Photo submitted

A ﬁeld exercise gives students a better understanding of the role emergency responders play in the health care ﬁeld.

CU offers Mini Med School via live video feed to Delta The University of Colorado School of Medicine is offering a free program called “Mini Med School” for people who would like to learn more about medicine, health and the human body. Mini Med School II is an eight-week free course that meets each Wednesday from 7 to 8:30 p.m. for a one-hour

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lecture followed by a question-and-answer session with distinguished faculty members of the University of Colorado School of Medicine. The classes are held on the Anschutz Medical Campus in Aurora and there will be a live video feed at Delta County Memorial Hospital, in the Mesa Lake classroom in the Grand Mesa Oncology & Education Center, 1501 E. 3rd Street. The course schedule: Sept. 2 — The Art of Medicine. Sept. 9 — A Day in the Life of an Ob/Gyn. Sept. 16 — Understanding Your Sleep. Sept. 23 — Fall break (no lecture). Sept. 30 — Revealing Genetics: What’s in Your Genome? And Do You Want to Know? Oct. 7 — Caring for Seriously Ill and Dying Patients. Oct. 14 — A Day in the Life of a Pediatrician. Oct. 21 — Hypertension: Understanding the Silent Killer. Oct. 28 — How Thyroid Disorders Affect Your Health and Well-Being. The popular lecture

series is a community service offered by the CU School of Medicine. Since it was founded in 1989, more than 21,000 people have taken the courses. Registration is required in order to attend and is available online at https:// fastfor.ms/91ACF. If you have questions, contact Paula Carter at pcarter@deltahospital.org.

Caregiver support group meets Caregiver support and networking groups meet in Montrose the first Wednesday and third Thursday of every month from 1:30 to 2:30 p.m. The meetings are all-inclusive support/networking groups for those who care for someone with dementia or any disability/illness in any living environment. There is no cost. The support groups meet at Region 10, 300 N. Cascade Avenue, Montrose. For more information call Amy Rowan at 765-3123.

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SURFACE CREEK August 19, 2015

NEWS

Section

www.deltacountyindependent.com

Orchard City seeks answers on opt-out question BY HANK LOHMEYER Staff Writer

The Orchard City Town Board is hoping to get some questions answered soon about the Region 10 broadband fiberoptic cable network project. At the trustees’ Aug. 12 meeting, concerns about potential pitfalls of the project were aired when supporters advised the board on allowing the town to enter the Internet service provider business. There are many different voices speaking authoritatively about the complex proposed $9.9 million, publicly funded, Region 10 project, but they are also speaking guardedly in general terms and not always in agreement. Six of those voices were at the Orchard City trustee meeting last week, but none were from Region 10. There were three representatives from Delta County Economic Development (DCED) and a Delta County commissioner. Also there were two staff engineers from Delta Montrose Electric Association (DMEA) who came to address a separate issue of the fiberoptic network proposal. But town trustee questions about the broadband project remained unanswered. A special board meeting was called to meet with Region 10 director Michelle Haynes which it was hoped would occur this week. Supporters of the Region 10 plan, including the Delta County Commissioners, want Orchard City and other local governments to place a special question on the Nov. 3 ballot. It would ask permission from voters to “opt out” from state prohibitions against entering the Internet service provider (ISP) business. As an ISP, a local government could sell Internet service and content to consumers. Following the Nov. 5 elections last year, The Washington Post reported, “Voters in seven cities and counties in Colorado voted Tuesday to free their local governments to offer Internet service. “The votes marked a defeat for big, traditional Internet service providers such as Comcast that have successfully maneuvered to inject limits on municipal broadband into state regulations over the last decade. Now cities are figuring out ways to push back, including wiggling out from under laws the industry helped put in place.” Now, supporters of the Region 10 plan want Delta County and its municipalities to do the same thing. County Commissioner Bruce Hovde said that doing so “would not obligate Orchard City in any way.” But Mayor Don Suppes noted the possibility of what he termed “potential quasi-blackmail.” Saying he had “no doubt”

that town voters would choose to opt out, he also speculated that town government could eventually be forced into the business of providing Internet service if the current restriction against it is removed. Suppes also said he wants clarification on the idea of the town paying to bring fiberoptic cable to Orchard City and then DMEA providing the “last mile” Internet service from that location. Suppes said he wants to know more about the $5.2 million dollar grant “and what this idea would cost” the town. Trustee Beverly Moore said, “I see pros and cons, but I don’t see the benefits.” The director of DCED, Trish Thibido, told the town board that opting-out “would give Orchard City options to use public funds” and other assets to extend a fiberoptic network. Trustee Toni Chatto asked Thibido if she meant “public funds by taxation?” Thibido replied, “Tax dollars.” County Commissioner Bruce Hovde corrected that reply. He explained opting out would not approve an increase in taxes. He said it would allow current public assets, including taxes, to be used for fiberoptic networks. Any new additional taxes would have to be approved by voters. “There are many variables,” Suppes observed and suggested, “What if we put off a decision until the April (municipal election) ballot? I am concerned about pressure from outside forces.” Thibido cited reasons for Orchard City voters to approve an opt-out question. She spoke in general terms that having voters decide to “opt out” would: • “Leave options open; • “Put the community in the best possible position; • “It is important not to have (the ISP prohibition) as a limiting factor;” • It would “keep options open for broadband development; • It would be “a tool and an option for the community to use;” and • “We would want to have as many tools available as possible.” Thibido noted that the Region 10 plan calls for a twoyear build out of the “middlemile” portion. This would bring fiberoptic cable to some institutions, but not to private consumers or businesses. Current ideas call for Internet service from the fiberoptic system to private homes and businesses to be provided by commercial ISPs, by DMEA, or by local governments. Hovde told the Orchard City trustees that opting out “gives flexibility.” He added that the county commissioners are encouraging communities to “opt out.”

Photo by Hank Lohmeyer

Eggleston Lake

It is getting to be the time of year when cooler evenings help make Grand Mesa the place for enjoying a meal out, a day trip adventure, or a weekend family camping outing. Shown is Eggleston Lake seen recently brim full of trout-laden water.

Viewpoints differ on homeowners’ view BY HANK LOHMEYER Staff Writer

Orchard City resident R. Allen Scheetz and the town’s trustees took tentative steps toward resolving a conflict during the town board’s meeting on Aug. 12. The trustee/Scheetz dis-

cussion was businesslike and at times pointed. When the town’s new supply storage building was completed a year ago, two residents living above the structure on Tank Hill complained about the bright, sun-induced reflective glare from the

Photo by Hank Lohmeyer

R. Allen Scheetz and his wife object to glare from the town’s storage building roof that dominates the view from their front room window.

building’s shiny galvanized metal roof. Scheetz told the town board that his wife, who must spend a lot of time at home, complains about the glare that dominates the view from their front room window during certain times of the day. “We also see a lot of wildlife through the front window,” he added. “A lot of wildlife goes through that area.” Scheetz said that from about 11:30 a.m. to 2:30 p.m. the blinds in their front room have to be closed to block the glare. That takes place at least six months out of the year, he added. Trustees suggested seethough blinds, reflective screens, or tinted film to place on the window that can be viewed through and that would cut the glare. “Who’s going to pay for it?” Scheetz asked. Trustees also noted that Scheetz has bright white roof coatings on his own home and outbuildings. “That doesn’t bother other neighbors,” he said. Trustee Jim Boyd noted, “There is no zoning law (in Orchard City), and so we can’t say that the town has done anything wrong. Paint is very expensive and it can hurt the integrity of the roof.” If the roof ’s galvanized metal coating is removed so that paint will adhere to the VIEWPOINTS TO C2

Orchard City celebrates its community BY HANK LOHMEYER Staff Writer

With Delta County’s events calendar abounding in fruit festivals, brews and wine festivals, music festivals and summer days festivals, Orchard City’s annual town picnic could just as well be called the Friends and Family Fun Festival. There were numerous comments at this year’s event held last Saturday on the large turnout that was truly

a friends-and-family affair. The Town Park pavilion was filled with locals enjoying the free cookout event and other activities, this year featuring old-time fiddle playing. The two fiddle players who came to be part of the event, John Mattison of Hotchkiss and Patrick DaCosta of Eckert, were both awarded “first place” prize money in their age categories for their talent displays. Additional money remaining in the prize pot was

Photo by Hank Lohmeyer

Patrick DaCosta of Eckert performs in the town picnic oldtime ﬁddle playing event as he is accompanied by Mark Toole of Cedaredge on the guitar.

distributed evenly among five other musicians who came to accompany the fiddlers and to strum guitars and sing some real cowboy songs. The pie baking top award went to Jessica Axtell with her delicious “almond joy” creation. Axtell also won second prize for her peach raspberry pie. Third place in the contest this year went to Marsha Thomas and her caramel chocolate pie. The kids are always a part of the Orchard City town picnic. They have their own cool and fun water slide feature to play on, and a watermelon eating contest where everyone was a big winner. The annual town picnic was begun a decade or more ago, with the first one being held in the town shops. It featured a cookout and rides for the kids on the fire truck. The event has grown in size and popularity since then to become a major community event for Orchard City residents.

Photo by Hank Lohmeyer

Nathan Winkler, 4, and Clayton Winkler, 5, ﬁnd themselves in a bit of sibling rivalry to see who can down watermelon the fastest. Turn to C2 for more photos.

C2 Wednesday, August 19, 2015

SURFACE CREEK NEWS

Delta County Independent

Exhibit showcases artistic talents of Horizons residents residents, provides a way to increase a sense of well-being. Meehan told Residents at Horizons the DCI, “The activities Care Center are redisdepartment encourages covering art, and in the residents to reach their process they are experifullest potential. When encing new talents and they see what they can ways of self-expression accomplish (in art), they that enhance their own see they are helping lives and the lives of oththemselves improve.” ers. Resident Marie KenA renewed interest in yon had ten works displayed in the art show held last Saturday. She started doing art “when I was bored one day,” she said. Since then, she has advanced in the activity. Other residents have been attracted to art projects and have made big strides in their accomplishments. Kenyon explained how seeing others blossom in that way when they “put hours and hours of work and their hearts and souls” into a project is a fulfilling part of the activity. “It is amazing to see the women who were afraid at first, and now are doing wonderful things,” Kenyon said. The art supplies are kept in an activity room where residents are free to compose and create as the muse moves them to. Materials used are mostly colored pencils, markers, crayons and watercolor. The projects are geared Photo by Hank Lohmeyer to beginning-level artists Artist Marie Kenyon displayed ten works of her art using a paper “canvas” at the show that was staged last Saturday in the with pre-lined subjects to front lobby at Horizons Care Center.

BY HANK LOHMEYER Staff Writer

art at the center is the result of the residents themselves. Works by Horizons artists were on display in the front lobby during a showing last Saturday afternoon, Activities assistant Kathy Meehan notes that the center’s arts group, which has grown into a mini-art society among

Tony & Pat’s

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BIG YARD SALE

complete. explained Meehan that there was an active arts group at Horizons a few years ago and that the new group is a revival. Resident Wilma Cordell said that the many projects she has completed are done for her daughter or for other residents who come into the room to admire the work. Resident Dorothy Sisson sees the completed paintings and drawings as a craft activity and recalls the handmade pottery she once created and finished. The pottery was sold to help fund an Indian mission. Virginia Menke said that “I got into it and just kept going. We get a lot of encouragement from the staff.” Virginia has completed landscape scenes and still-life works, but she says her favorite theme is birds, and a rendering of a bright red cardinal nearby shows lots of attentive work. Kenyon’s roommate at Horizons is Rose Lopez. Her works display vivid, intense colors in a variety of subjects, including geometric patterns. “Little by little we saw such a big improvement in her. The more she painted the better she got,” Kenyon said. “It is a way for us to express our feelings.”

Photo by Hank Lohmeyer

Trustees noted that roofs on the Scheetz property, shown in foreground, are also bright white. Sheetz says his roofs don’t bother neighbors like the town building roof, shown in distance, does.

Viewpoints FROM PAGE C1 metal surface, then at some point if even a small failure in the paint allows water to get underneath, the sheet metal roof will quickly rust through, Boyd explained. “I am not in favor of doing anything (that may) damage the roof,” he told Scheetz. Scheetz also stated that the roof ’s glare is so bright that it could obstruct visibility and cause a traffic accident at the intersection of 2125 and 2100 Roads atop Tank Hill. Trustee Beverly Moore told Scheetz, “To paint

the roof is costly to the citizens of Orchard City.” Scheetz replied, “What’s an accident going to cost?” Other trustees noted that direct sunlight enters their own homes at times too and they have to deal with it. Scheetz said that he doesn’t want to pay for window shading, but he agreed to get some samples from a glass company and see how they would work. “I’ll look into that,” he told the trustees. Mayor Don Suppes said, “We will see if we can come to an amicable solution to this.”

Orchard City celebrates

in Cedaredge

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Photo by Hank Lohmeyer

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Spencer Edmiston, 3, is Photo by Hank Lohmeyer the picture of summer cool enjoying his piece Really little kids love watermelon, too, as Brantley Tribble, 3, Harper Tribble, 1, and Corrie Winkler, 2, show during the watermelon eating contest. of watermelon.

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Photo by Hank Lohmeyer

Homemade pies were for judging, then for enjoying.

Photo by Hank Lohmeyer

Cooling off in the water slide feature are Tacoma Fuller and friend Mark Downery.

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Photo by Hank Lohmeyer

Old-time ﬁddle player John Mattison of Hotchkiss is accompanied by guitar players, from left, Dick Simms of Orchard City and Justin Borgman of Hotchkiss.

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SURFACE CREEK NEWS

Delta County Independent

Wednesday, August 19, 2015

Birds of the Western Slope A look at local birds with Evelyn Horn Rufous Hummingbird And here he is! I’ve been keeping a close eye on our trumpet vine waiting to see our rufous hummingbird. Our usual hummers are the black-chin with the broad-tailed and the tiny calliope (the smallest of the small at 2 1/2 inches long) at higher elevations as on the Grand Mesa. We only see the rufous during their fall migration. The migration path of most birds is over the same area both going north and returning south. Rufous are wideranging birds, breeding farther north than any others. In the spring they migrate northward along our western coast to the northwest and Alaska for summer. But the southward trip is down the Rocky Mountains. I’ve long wondered about that. How do they know where to go? And they fly alone rather than in flocks. Of course, they have to

Photo from Dollar Photo

Rufous hummingbird

stop along the way to feed and if they were in a flock there probably wouldn’t be enough food for them. Secondly, they’re so small that they don’t make a wake in the air currents for others to follow. Their small size makes it difficult for predators to even notice them. They fly low, often at tree-top level, possibly to watch for food sources. Before migration, these tiny birds must gain 25 to 40 percent of their body weight. If a larger bird gained that

much weight, it couldn’t even take off! And names. Our bird is Selasphorus rufus. The term “rufus” means reddish so that the common name fits our little bird. The Greek selas means a bright flame and phoros means “carrying.” On the Internet, I found the website www. BirdWatchingDaily.com and I quote “… It was originally thought that all rufous hummingbirds wintered primarily in northern Mexico and Central America, but since the late 1970s, an increasing number of birds have been documented in winter in the southeastern United States. In the past, the migrants were often incorrectly diagnosed as lost or ill, but researchers now agree that a winter population has been established…” Now my rufous zips away over the vine — but I’m sure he’ll be back soon!

Photo by Randy Sunderland

Top dollar

Tawny Roberts of Mt. Lamborn 4-H Club exhibited the reserve champion market beef and reserve champion Delta County Bred and Fed beef, purchased by Mountain Fresh Corn and Ahlberg Farms, represented by Zack Ahlberg. The purchase price was $5,250, not $3,100 as previously reported by the Market Livestock Sale committee.

Hunter education class scheduled for Cedaredge It’s time for hunters in the Surface Creek Valley to get ready for the fall hunting seasons. For new hunters, Colorado Parks and Wildlife will hold a hunter education class, 9 a.m. to 5 p.m., Aug. 22-23 at the Masonic Lodge in Cedaredge. The class is free but class size is limited to 20. There is no age limit, but CPW recommends that youngsters be at least 10 years old.

Anyone born after Jan. 1, 1949, is required to take a hunter education class to be eligible to purchase a hunting license in Colorado. The class covers firearm safety, hunting safety, hunting ethics and wildlife management. A test is given on the second day

of the class. Those who pass will receive a hunter safety card. To register, go to this page on the CPW website http://register-ed.com/ programs/colorado/98colorado-hunter-educa tion-course. Or for information, call (970) 6417060.

Birthday potluck on Aug. 24

Chute-out champs

Photo submitted

Winners of the Delta County Fair Team Roping Chute-Out were Garret Kelleher and Jack Kortz. The winners are pictured with Jerry and Sherry Cobb from JC Propane, sponsors.

The annual Coalby Canyon birthday club potluck will be held in Cedaredge Town Park Monday, Aug. 24, beginning at 5:30 p.m. Dinner will be served at 6 p.m. Bring a dish of your choice and your own dinner service. Iced tea, lemonade and coffee will be supplied.

Trail trials return Sept. 12 The Women’s Surface Creek Saddle Club is conducting its biennial Trail Trials at the Mesa Top Trail on Sept. 12. This popular local trail riding event will be held at the Mesa Top Trail head on Grand Mesa. This ride will be an eight-mile loop, with the majority of the track on the scenic Mesa Top Trail with spectacular views of the Granby and Battlement Reservoirs. Hopefully, the aspen trees will be starting to turn their beautiful fall colors. At least 10 obstacles are planned to challenge participants this year as they ride along. Horse and rider skill levels have improved tremendously since the Women’s Saddle Club began holding this event back in 2002 at the Escalante exit off of Highway 50 north of Delta. The majority of the obstacles will be natural situations one might

encounter during a high forest trail ride. All riders are invited to try all the obstacles, but if they encounter something they would rather not ask their horse to do, they can simply skip it. Riders may start on the trail in a two hour window between 9-11 a.m. The pace is as fast or as slow as riders feel comfortable. Having fun, enjoying a beautiful fall day on Grand Mesa and riding safely are the main goals for the day. The Women’s Surface Creek Saddle Club encourages the entire family to come out and ride together by giving large discounts to family’s riding together as well as discounts if you register and pay in advance. So if you are looking for something fun to do on horseback, grab a friend and come on up and give Trail Trials a try. Mules are welcome too.

New ofﬁcers

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Photo by Hank Walls

Riders Rosann Lane and Matt Baker of LaPorte take a break to water their horses at Heart Pond along the Mesa Top Trail during the last Trail Trials sponsored by the Women’s Surface Creek Saddle Club. For more information contact: Lorie Molitor 856-4680 or email lor2mol@aol.com.

Photo submitted

Surface Creek Valley Lions Club held its annual installation of 2015-16 officers on Saturday, July 25. The officers were installed by 6-W past district governor Lance Balding of Grand Junction. New officers include Ray Hansen, president; Pat Means, vice president; Norma Miller, secretary; and Bill Miller, treasurer. Other club positions are held by Judy Welch, Patti Michael, Jeannie Pippin, Bob Michael and Austin Keiser. Pictured from left to right are Bill Miller, Ray Hansen, Chris Anderson, Norma Miller, Austin Keiser, Bob Michael, Judy Welch and Pat Means.

C6 Wednesday, August 19, 2015

SPORTS

Delta County Independent

SPORTS August 19, 2015

www.deltacountyindependent.com

DHS 3rd at first golf meet BY WAYNE CRICK DCI Sports Editor

The 2015 golfing campaign for Cedaredge and Delta began last week with tournament action at Cedaredge Golf Club. Fifteen teams were represented in varsity play with two junior varsity teams joining the fun on the links. Aspen placed first after posting a score of 242,

with Colter Zwieg shooting a 76 to tie for second in medalist honors with Montrose’s Glen-Michael Mihavotz. The tournament’s top individual score came from Cortez’s Cris Rudosky who fired a round of 71. Eagle Valley scored a 250 to finish second in team scores, while Delta’s Panthers came in with a 252 to earn third place in

the team race. Delta’s top scorers were Blake Reiher and Logan Wood with identical 82s. Teammate Christian Hall’s 88 was added to Reiher and Wood’s scores for Delta’s 252. Mason Garcia shot an 84 and KC Carlson had a 96 to round out a successful first tournament for the Panthers. Jacob Lewis’ 82 topped Cedaredge scorers with the Bruins putting together a team score of 265. Pete Carlson shot a 91 and Duncan Campbell had a 92 to combine with Lewis’ 82 for the 265 total. Nate Stumpf had a 110 and Matt Smelser a 111 to complete Cedaredge scores for the tournament. In junior varsity action, Delta posted a team score of 311 to finish second behind Montrose’s junior linksters who finished the day with a 289.

PREP GOLF AT CEDAREDGE GOLF CLUB Aug. 13, 2015

Photo by Wayne Crick

Cedaredge sophomore Jacob Lewis putts onto the green at number six during play at last Thursday’s prep golf tournament at Cedaredge Golf Club. The Bruins ﬁnished with a 265 (tied for sixth with Cortez). Lewis ﬁnished the day with an 82.

PLACE 1 2 3 4 5 6 6 8 9 10 11

TEAM SCORES TEAM SCORE Aspen 242 Eagle Valley 250 Delta 252 Montrose 253 Rifle 260 Cedaredge 265 Cortez 265 Palisade 278 Buena Vista 284 Coal Ridge 288 Gunnison 302

INDIVIDUAL SCORES Cris Rudosky-Cortez Colter Zwieg-Aspen

71 76

Photo by Wayne Crick

Delta’s Logan Wood hits the ball safely out of a bunker during play in last Thursday’s Cedaredge Invitational Golf Tournament. Logan was consistent during play for 18 holes and shared the team’s top score with Blake Reiher. Both players carded rounds of 82. The Panthers placed third with a score of 252. Aspen won the tournament with its 242.

Delta’s top shooter was Clayton Abila with his 91. Kyle Mock posted a 109 and Jaspar Carmichael carded a 111 for the Panthers’ top three scores. Rowyn Carmichael (112) and Isaac Gibson (121) completed the scoring efforts by Delta players. Tyler Quinn had a 91 to lead Montrose’s junior varsity. The remainder of the scores were Wyatt Hughes (95), Mike Brent (103), Triston Harrison (108) and Ben Gibson (117). Cedaredge was slated to play at Bookcliff Country Club in Grand Junction on Monday, Aug. 17, at Redlands Mesa on Aug. 18 and then at Devil’s Thumb on Aug. 26 beginning at 9 a.m. The Panthers schedule shows a tournament at Redlands Mesa Aug. 18 and then the Devil’s Thumb Invitational on Aug. 26. Glen-Michael Mihavotz-Montrose Dominic Lanese-Aspen Barrett Jones-Eagle Valley Jacob Smith-Rifle Blake Reiher-Delta Logan Wood-Delta Jacob Lewis-Cedaredge Nick Borri-Rangely Nate Woll-Palisade Mason Garcia-Delta (DQ) Wyatt Carter-Rifle Keigen Huffer-Montrose Riley Tambvrello-Coal Ridge Tanner Caldarola-Eagle Valley Garrett Bradley-Eagle Valley Joe Lucas-Palisade Christian Hall-Delta Dawson Holmes-Aspen Nic Rau-Buena Vista Hunter Fox-Battle Mountain Henry Ferguson-Aspen Pete Carlson-Cedaredge Duncan Campbell-Cedaredge Braden Keetch-Cortez Nicholas Slossberg-Aspen Tanner Harbick-Buena Vista Michael Sandoval-Eagle Valley Aidan Sokup-Eagle Valley Christian Peterson-Montrose Kohl Keithley-Rifle K.C. Carlson-Delta Danny Wenzel-Coal Ridge Austin Martinez-Montrose Drew Hanks-Gunnison Zach Marshall-Gunnison James Lambert-Gunnison Jesse Stokes-Buena Vista Luke Gross-Cortez Elliot Krebill-Rifle Daylen Tambvrello-Coal Ridge Caleb Stephens-Buena Vista Bobby Schuman-Buena Vista Harrison Heil-Rangley Dylan Frazier-Gunnison Devon Ellis-Coal Ridge Bryson VanHee-Gunnison Brandon Nash-Palisade Nate Stumpf-Cedaredge Dane LaHue-Palisade Matt Smelser-Cedaredge Cole Gillian-Palisade Forrest Gomez-Cortez Isaiah Wright-Cortez Devon Glasskampp

76 77 78 78 82 82 82 82 83 84 86 86 86 87 87 88 88 89 89 90 91 91 92 92 93 93 95 95 96 96 96 98 98 100 101 101 102 102 102 103 104 104 104 105 106 107 107 110 110 110 111 113 114 118

BY WAYNE CRICK DCI Sports Editor

Hotchkiss’ Kale Litzelman had a chance to visit Chicago this summer.

Photo by Wayne Crick

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Quaid Garton-Battle Mountain Josh Carpenter-Grand Valley

119 119

9th

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DELTA HIGH SCHOOL GOLF SCHEDULE - 2015

CEDAREDGE HIGH SCHOOL GOLF SCHEDULE - 2015 26th 27th 31st

August - 2015 @ Devil’s Thumb-Delta 9 a.m. @ Cobble Creek-Montrose 9 a.m. @ Battlement Mesa-Parachute 9 a.m.

26th 27th 31st

August - 2015 @ Devil’s Thumb-Delta 9 a.m. @ Cobble Creek-Montrose 9 a.m. @ Battlement Mesa-Parachute 9 a.m.

3rd 8th

September - 2015 @ Haymaker-Steamboat Spgs 9 a.m. @ Black Canyon-Montrose 9 a.m.

3rd 8th 9th

September - 2015 @ Haymaker-Steamboat Spgs 9 a.m. @ Black Canyon-Montrose 9 a.m. @ Bridges-Montrose 9 a.m.

Photo by Wayne Crick

This antelope doe was enjoying the lush grasses close to the Devil’s Thumb Golf Club clubhouse after completion of the Wells Fargo Classic Golf Tournament. She is one of nine antelope sited recently on the course.

Hotchkiss athlete has his day in Chicago

Cedaredge’s Matt Smelser putts on number six during play at last week’s ﬁrst prep golf tournament for the Bruins. As a team Cedaredge shot a 265.

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Photo by Wayne Crick

Delta junior Blake Reiher chips onto the green at Cedaredge Golf Club’s par 3 sixth hole. Reiher and the Panthers were competing in their ﬁrst prep golf tournament of the 2015 season. Delta carded a 252 for third place while Reiher and teammate Logan Wood each shot an 82.

Photo submitted

Kale Litzelman had a chance to exhibit some of his baseball skills learned over the years. Litzelman, and 61 other athletes, were invited to participate in a baseball showcase held in Chicago, Ill. There were scouts in attendance who posted highlights on their blogs for participating players.

While in Chicago, Litzelman showed off some of his athleticism at a showcase that included 61 other prep baseball players. Litzelman, the grandson of former Hotchkiss student-athlete Dennis Marty, was accompanied to Chicago by his grandmother, Karen Marty. While attending Hotchkiss High School, Litzelman’s grandfather excelled in baseball and was a member of the 1964 Bulldog’s team that won a state title. Of the 62 athletes participating in the showcase, Litzelman, who bats and throws left handed, was just one of five lefthanded players there. He was only one of three lefties who were pitchers. Litzelman’s primary position at Hotchkiss was in the outfield. He did see time as a pitcher. While in Chicago, Litzelman noted that he played both positions equally while attending the showcase. His top pitching velocity was 79 mph. An attending baseball scout highlighted Litzelman’s pitching performance in one of his blogs. “Litzelman, a rising junior left-hander, worked three scoreless, hitless innings while racking up four strikeouts. He creates excellent angle to the plate from an extended three-quarter slot and works at the bottom of the zone with a running, sinking fastball that worked in the

75-78 range, topping out 79 mph. He projects well moving forward both in terms of pitchability as well as velocity.” The 62 showcase participants applied for positions and had to be accepted and invited before they could attend. Litzelman found out about the showcase from a teammate during the last baseball season. Litzelman was impressed with his stay in Chicago and spoke well of his experiences there. “I believe that these showcases provide a great opportunity for the athletes to show off their skills, and it also helps the scouts find athletes that are fit for the next level of competition. I feel like I performed well at the showcase in both pitching and in the field. The scout’s blog was complimentary of my pitching.” When asked how he sees himself and the Buldogs’ competitiveness in the coming season, Litzelman had this response. “I have very high expectations for both myself and my team this year. I expect to fill a big role in our pitching lineup for this coming season and hope to be an important part of the lineup for batting. Our team will be very talented and is expected to do even better than last year. We have a very good coach and he is leading us in the right direction.”

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GUNS

AVAILABLE IMMEDIATE-- GUN SHOW AUG. 21-23 ly - Delta - 3 BR, 2 BA beau- Montrose County tiful duplex across from Fairgounds. Friday, 4-8 downtown park. $950/ p.m., Saturday, 9 a.m. - 5 month $950 deposit. Small p.m., Sunday, 9 a.m. - 2 pet with deposit. Call Renee, p.m. Admission $5 or 3-day (970) 433-8084. (3x32) pass $10. Sponsored by NEWER BRIGHT AND Montrose Rod & Gun Club. cheery 2 BR/1 BA duplex in (1x33) Cedaredge, attached 1-car garage, washer/dryer, nice landscaping/area, no smokMEAT ing, no pets, 1-year lease, $640/mo. rent, $600 depos- PROSSESSING it. (702) 622-8783. (2x32)

$300 REWARD FOR ANY information leading to the recovery of two items gifted to my mom in 1948. Hand crafted in China, black lacquered 5'x3'x3' cedar chest with lighter colored oval intricately carved. Also brown wooden box 12"x6"x5" similarly carved. (970) 260-3414. (4x33)

FOR SALE BEAUTIFUL SOLID OAK Desk – would work for commercial office or home. 78" long with one side 26" and other 35" wide, to accommodate printer. Finished front panel. (4 drawers, 2 doors and removable keyboard tray). Asking $250. Matching oak 2-drawer legal size file cabinet for $100. Call (970) 856-4548 or (970) 209-7853. Cedaredge. (This is a real bargain) (2x32)

AUTOMOTIVE

YARD SALES ST. JOSEPH'S CHURCH/ Holy Guardian Angels School yard sale, Aug., 21, 3 p.m.- 7 p.m., Aug., 22, 8 a.m. - 5 p.m. 59350 Carnation Rd., Olathe, E. of Hwy 50. For building fund or donate online gofundme. com/zgf7h5nw. (1x33)

HELP WANTED EXPERIENCED WINDOW and Siding Installers wanted. Year-round work in Delta & Montrose Counties. Call: (970) 874-3665 (2x32)

CROSSROADS ASSISTed Living is taking applications for the following positions: QMAP (Qualified GET QUICK RESULTS, Medication Administration advertise in the DCI Clas- Person), Personal Care sifieds. Call today 874-4421 Providers, Dietary Aid, LPN & Hairdresser (Cosmetologist). Pick up applications at 1380 Aspen Way, Delta. (4x31)

HELP WANTED

LOST & FOUND

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1980 CJ5 SIX-CYLINDER, 8,000 pound winch, 31x10 new tires and rims, frames and doors for soft top, tow bar, tilt wheel, sheepskin seat covers. Olathe. Pictures on request. (303) 618-5839. (2x31)

MULTI-FAMILY YARD sale. 594 Apricot Lane. Saturday, Aug. 22, 8-2. (1x33)

ADVERTISE TODAY!

SUBSCRIBE TODAY!

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HELP WANTED

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PEOPLE LOOK FOR JOBS in the classifieds. 874-4421

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NEWLY REMODELED 3 BR, 2 BA house in Delta. No pets, no smoking. $850/ month. Call (970) 708-7343. (6x31)

REAL ESTATE

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HELP WANTED ��

For all your business needs-Advertise! 874-4421.

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D2 Wednesday, August 19, 2015 HELP WANTED

CLASSIFIEDS

HELP WANTED

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For all your advertising needs call 874-4421.

HELP WANTED GENERAL MANAGER KVNF Community Radio, based in Paonia, CO and serving 10,000 square miles of western Colorado, seeks a dynamic General Manager to lead our team providing national, alternative and local news, along with an eclectic mix of music to our listeners in seven rural counties. The General Manager position provides an exciting opportunity for a seasoned business professional with expertise in leading paid and volunteer staff, working effectively with boards of directors, developing and managing budgets including successfully implementing fund-raising programs and enthusiasm for building strong community relationships and outreach programs. Specific knowledge of FCC rules and regulations along with public radio station policies, procedures and standards would be a plus. More detailed information about the position is available at www.kvnf.org/ general-manager-search. Interested and qualified candidates are encouraged to apply by sending a resume, list of three references and letter of interest detailing qualifications and salary expectations to generalmanagersearch@k vnf.org. The closing date for applications is August 31, 2015. KVNF is an Equal Opportunity Employer. (2x32)

HELP WANTED REGISTERED NURSE: Community Options is in need of a part time nurse (16 hr week) to provide nursing support to adults with intellectual and developmental disabilities. The office is located in Cedaredge. Must be able to work independently in coordination with support staff and the medical community. Excellent computer and administrative skills are required. A resume is encouraged, but an employment application is required and can be picked up at 155 NW 2nd St., Cedaredge. You can apply online at www. communityoptionsinc.org. Contact Georgiana Russell at (970) 856-7600 ext. 213. (2x33)

PUBLIC SERVICE THE DELTA COUNTY Independent runs these items as a public service free of charge for non-profit organizations, if no fees are charged. However, each group is asked to please keep them current by calling 874-4421.

WOMEN ONLY AA MEETings, Delta. Wednesdays, 5:30 p.m., closed (Alcoholics only) at Friends of Bill W. Club, 897 Palmer. Saturdays, 11:00 a.m., open (others may attend) at St. THE CITY OF DELTA Luke's Episcopal Church, Police Department in Delta, 5th & Palmer (back door). Colorado is now accept- (tfnx3) ing applications for Police Officer. Applicants must FREE DIAPERS FOR UP be certifiable, certified or to one year! Pregnant lateral; certified preferred. women in Delta County can Patrols an assigned beat now get help to quit smokin the enforcement of law ing and get something they and order and prevention can really use after their of crime; takes intensive baby arrives — free diapers. field and basic training in Healthy moms have healthy the early period of employ- babies. Enroll in the Baby & ment. Necessary special Me Tobacco Free program requirements are: High today. Contact the Delta School Graduate; possess County Health Department a valid Colorado driver's at 874-2165 or your local license or able to obtain physician. (TFNx2) with 30 days of hire; State SUPPORT THE DELTA certified in law enforce- Public Library. Give a gently ment or ability to acquire; used book in the Downstairs must be 21 years of age or Book Store. over at time of hire; will be required to pass a detailed WELCOME RETURNING background and criminal Veterans, Post 9221 VFW record check, a psychologi- meets at 5:00 p.m. on the cal exam, physical agility 4th Thursday of each month test, physical, written test in Cedaredge. To find out and a pre-employment how to participate in prodrug test. The starting sal- moting patriotism and ary is $19.70 per hour plus assisting veterans, contact an excellent benefits pack- Wayne Hamrick, (970) 250age. Please submit appli- 1180. (tfnx23) cation and the supplemental application to: Human AARP DRIVER SAFETY Resources Department 360 Course. Save on insurance, Main St., Delta, CO 81416. keep up on newer traffic Application, supplemental laws, learn defensive drivand complete job descrip- ing techniques. For details tion available at City Hall or and schedule contact John on the web at www.cityof Loring (970) 856-6924 or delta.net. Incomplete appli- (970) 424-1778. cations will not be accepted. HOTCHKISS-CRAWFORD Deadline for applications is Historical Museum. Winter 5:00 p.m. August 21, 2015. hours, Saturdays 1-4 p.m. EEO. (3x31) thru December 24. $3 admission or free to members. Come see our museum at 2nd & Hotchkiss Streets in Hotchkiss. 872-3780. (tfx44)

For all your printing needs call Randy Crespin at 874-4421.

PUBLIC SERVICE

F YOU LOVE BOOKS, you will love the Downstairs Bookstore in the basement of the Delta Public Library. NARCOTICS ANONYmous meets at 9th and Palmer, Delta, Mondays and Fridays at 8 p.m. (tfnx5) BECAWS! DONATIONS needed. Credit cards accepted. Call 970-5273350, or visit cawsonline. org. Delta County Citizens for Animal Welfare and Shelter (CAWS)

SAVE EYEGLASSES, OLD jewelry and silver or bits of gold and silver scraps. The Grand Odd Fellow Lodge is sending them to: New Eyes for the Needy, 549 Millburn Ave., Short Hills, NJ 07078 or send them to: Gale Conger, Secretary of IOOF Lodge #116, 544 St. Hwy. 548, Delta, CO 81416.

THE AMERICAN RED Cross needs you. Become one of the Red Cross volunteers who says, “We’ll Be There, Because Help Can’t DELTA FOOD PANTRY Wait!” Call your local Red needs meals for Delta Cross Chapter at 970-242families who are temporar- 4851 or 1-800-HELP NOW ily in need. Donations of for information on the difnon-perishable food may ference you can make in be brought to 628 Meeker. someone’s life as a disaster volunteer. ((TFNx4)) (tfx36) HELP!!! KEEP THE animal population under control, and SAVE an animal's life. Adopt your new cat or dog from the Delta County Humane Society. Adoption fee is minimal. Call 874-2149. (DCHS) THERE IS A VFW MEETING on the first Monday of each month. At 6 p.m. there is a potluck and the meeting is at 7 p.m. at the IOOF Hall, 860 Hwy 92, Delta. For further information, call 874-8172 Jim Baker, Quartermaster. (tfx12) BECAWS! ADOPT A DOG or cat today. Call 970-5273350, or visit cawsonline. org. Delta County Citizens for Animal Welfare and Shelter (CAWS) CHAPTER, UNITS OF DAV regular meetings on the second Monday of each month at 7 p.m. at the Veterans Building, 15th & Howard, Delta. For further information, call Paul Carter 874-5150. (tfx19) ARE YOU NEW TO THE Delta area? Stop by the Delta Area Chamber of Commerce at 301 Main St. for you FREE Welcome Bag, filled with goodies, samples, discounts and community information, courtesy of Chamber members and sponsored by Kim GuthrieBurch of Re/Max Today. ARE YOU NEW TO THE Delta area? Stop by the Delta Area Chamber of Commerce at 301 Main St. for you FREE Welcome Bag, filled with goodies, samples, discounts and community information, courtesy of Chamber members and sponsored by Kim GuthrieBurch of Re/Max Today. YOU HAVE THE POWER TO change a child's life! Children are waiting for senior partners in Delta County right now! Can you spare 3 hours a week? We need your help! Call today for more information. Please volunteer to spend time with a child in our community. Partners of Delta, Montrose and Ouray, 874-4661, www. partners-west.org. or www. deltayouth@montrose.net. (tfx13)

PAONIA AMERICAN Legion runs a year round CHECK OUT THE BOOK non-perishable emergency store at the library. You'll food pantry. This is for find a great selection of the North Fork area. For paperbacks at reasonable information, call 527-6252. (tfx49) prices. YOUR LISTING HERE! SIGN UP TODAY FOR call now... 874-4421 and talk a subscription to the DCI! with an Ad Rep.

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Delta County Independent

DELTA HAS A BOOKstore in the basement of the library featuring gently used books and magazines. Come check it out!

PUBLIC SERVICE FARM WORKER HEALTH Services: We offer assistance with medical, dental and medicines. If you work in agriculture you may qualify for our services. For more information call 3230538. (tfx12) SERVICIOS DE SALUD De Campesinos: Ofrecemos ayuda con doctores, dentistas, y medicinas. Si trabajas en agricultura puedes calificar para nuestros servicios. Para mas informacion llame al 323-0538. (tfx12) THINK YOU'RE PREGnant? Abused? Need help? The Pregnancy Resource Center in Delta offers free service, support and advice to all teenagers and women in crisis pregnancy situations. For Christian help, anytime, call 874-5733.

YOU CAN QUIT. WE CAN help. Colorado Tobacco Quitline offers free, confiUNEMPLOYED? JOIN dential assistance. Call 1others for a time of net- 800-QUIT-NOW. (TFNx28). working, encouragement, and skill improvement. GOT TIME? RSVP NEEDS Latent Resources meets senior citizen volunteers the first Thursday of each throughout area. If you month at 6:30 at the Delta have 2 - 4 hours per month United Methodist Church minimum, opportunities in (5th & Meeker). Attendants Delta/Montrose counties and visitors are encouraged that match your interests to dress professionally are available. YOU are the and bring a note pad and missing LINK. Call 874-8657 a willingness to learn and or 249-9639. (tfx28) be challenged. Find us on FAMILIES BELIEVING facebook.com & twitter.com in families: Tandem - search "Latent Resources", Families is an innovative, or call James at 970-901- private non-profit mentor9463. ing program providing serHEALTHY BABIES START vices for at-risk children of with early prenatal care. Delta and Mont-rose counDelta County Health ties. Anyone interested in Department. Offers access volunteering their services to immediate, temporary or donating usable items Medicaid for pregnant should call 874-3000 or 252women who qualify. 874- 7445. (TFNx8) 2165. (tfx25) THE AMERICAN LEGION BOOKS MAKE GREAT Post 97 Paonia is seeking stocking stuffers. Find the names and addresses of books at great prices in all persons currently servthe basement of the Delta ing on active duty in the military from the North Fork Public Library. Valley in order to contact BECAWS! DISCOUNT them and show our supspay and neuter coupons port. Send addresses to available. Call 970-527- American Legion Post 97, 3350, or visit cawsonline. PO Box 277, Paonia, CO org. Delta County Citizens 81428 or call 527-6552. for Animal Welfare and BECAWS! VOLUNTEERS Shelter (CAWS) needed. Call 970-527-3350, SUPPORT THE DELTA or visit cawsonline.org. Public Library. Give a gently Delta County Citizens for used book in the Downstairs Animal Welfare and Shelter Book Store. (CAWS)

MISC.

Colorado Statewide Classiﬁed Advertising Network To place a 25-word COSCAN Network ad in 81 Colorado newspapers for only $350, contact your local newspaper or call SYNC2 Media at 303-571-5117. SPORTING GOODS AUCTION Multi-Tract Auction GUN SHOW Historic Murphy Ranch AUGUST 22-23 Granby, CO August 25 • 10AM SAT. 9-5 & SUN. 9-4 627± acres - 6 Tracts COLORADO SPRINGS • Multiple Wells & Springs FREEDOM FINANCIAL • Large Water Holding Reservoir SERVICES EXPO CENTER • Premier hunting access (3650 NEVADA) • Horse and cattle operations BUY - SELL - TRADE UC –Buford Resources Real INFO: (563) 927-8176 Estate and Auction SYNC2 MEDIA BufordResources.com 405-833-9499 10% BP Buy a 25-word statewide classiﬁed line ad in HELP WANTED - DRIVERS newspapers across the DRIVER TRAINEES NEEDED! state of Colorado Become a driver for Stevens for just $350 per week. Transport! NO EXPERIENCE Ask about our NEEDED! New drivers earn $800+ Frequency Discounts. per week! PAID CDL TRAINING! Contact this newspaper Stevens covers all costs! or call SYNC2 Media, 1-888-734-6714 drive4stevens.com 303-571-5117

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PUBLIC NOTICES

Delta County Independent

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CHURCH

Delta County Independent

Music, message to be offered Aug. 26 At 7:30 p.m. Wednesday, Aug. 26, the Gospel Echoes’ Mercy Road Team drops by Delta First Baptist Church to share through music and preaching the gospel message. The team shares the good news of Jesus Christ in prisons, churches, and at community events around the nation. This evening is being sponsored by West Rockies Mennonite Church along with host First Baptist Church of Delta located at 1250 Pioneer Road. A freewill offering

CMU faculty gala kicks off Music at Mesa season

Your church or organization having a special event? Call the DCI 874-4421.

Mercy Road Team

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The annual Music Faculty Gala, a celebration featuring the talents of the Colorado Mesa University music faculty, will be presented on Friday, Sept. 11, at 7:30 p.m. in the Moss Performing Arts Center Love Recital Hall. The music faculty will take the stage with a fun and varied program of solos and small ensembles. The concert, an annual audience favorite, is followed by a catered reception in the lobby. It is a great way to hear all of the department’s faculty, sample the season, and choose concerts to attend for the rest of the year. Faculty who will be performing include Alejandro Gómez Guillén,

will be taken up for this ministry team traveling from its home base in Goshen, Ind. Mercy Road Team is led by Jon and Karleen Sommers along with their children Alexi and Tyler. The team started touring in the summer of 2011. After sharing in Delta they are heading to the west coast of Oregon to minister the gospel. The community is invited to share in this evening of singing and sharing. If you have any questions, contact Brent at (970) 275-0272.

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Arthur Houle, Jane Kuenzel, Kristen Yeon-Ji Yun, Jonathan Hinkle and Darin Kamstra, among others. Tickets for the Music Faculty Gala are $10 for adults, $8 for seniors, faculty/staff and $5 for students. They are available by calling the box office at 248-1604. Moss Performing Arts Center is located one block north of North Avenue on 12th Street. The CMU music departments offer a variety of entertainment for the campus and local community throughout the year. A complete list of Music at Mesa performances can be found online at coloradomesa.edu/music/ performances.html.

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SERVICE DIRECTORY

Delta County Independent

Wednesday, August 19, 2015

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BACK PAGE

Delta County Independent

B A C K P A G E

Garden railroading

BY JIM LESER

Photos by Jim Leser

This photo was taken during a trip to the National Garden Railway Convention this July. The opportunity to visit Denver garden railroads was one of the most enjoyable aspects of the trip.

Contributing Writer

o you enjoy gardening? Great! What about model trains? Yes? Well do I have a hobby for you! Garden railroading is where you can combine gardening interests with largescale trains. Basically a garden railroad is just an outdoor model train but with larger trains than the HO, Lionel or American Flyer trains you might have had as a child or maybe still have with an indoor layout. The difference between an indoor layout and a garden railway is the difference between the illusion of reality created indoors using artificial materials for mountains and other scenery elements versus mountains made with real dirt and rocks, real water features, and real plants in the outdoor railroad. To give a scale perspective, the very popular HO scale trains represent one inch for every 87 inches (1:87) for the real thing. Garden railway trains represent one inch for every 20 to 32 inches of a real train. The track used is very durable where the distance between rails is 45mm or just under two inches apart. Trains are generally powered by electricity through the rails or battery operated using remote transmitters much like those used for flying model planes. Some garden railroaders even run trains powered by actual steam generated either by butane or real coal. Trains can either be the more modern diesel locomotives or the older-era steam engines. They can also be standard gauge (4’8” between rails) or narrow gauge with 3 feet between the rails. Regardless of what you run, everyone uses the same track. So if you want to run standard gauge trains then your scale will be 1:32 or 1:29. Narrow gauge folks will use a scale between 1:24 and 1:20.3. Last but not least, some railroaders will add sound to their locomotives, bringing another element to the realistic operation of their garden trains. There is nothing more entertaining than to watch your trains wind through your garden, over bridges through a real landscape of plants and across trestles spanning real water features, all the while making sounds like the real deal. Garden railroading may be new to you but it has been around in Great Britain for over a century. Garden railroading got its start in the United States in the 1920s but didn’t come into its own until LGB trains were introduced from Germany in the 1960s and especially when more American-style trains were made available. Since then, numerous other manufacturers of large-scale trains have entered the market providing many options to present day garden railroaders. Part of the fun of this hobby is being able to follow the practices of a full-size railroad and working with the landscape. Some folks use their trains to add visual interest to their existing garden where their plants are their main

interest. Others focus on their trains and operations, often creating complex track arrangements. The garden plants then become secondary to their trains. But the real fun is when the whole family gets involved so those who are into gardening can focus on that aspect of the hobby while others can focus on operating trains. I’ve already mentioned creating mountains out of rocks and dirt, and creating water features for the trains to cross. But there can be much more to garden railroading than that. There are structures to buy or build and add to the layout as well as populating the scenes with miniature people. You want to model a circus? Then by all means add tents, animals and spectators as a vignette tucked away in a special spot on your garden railroad. The garden part of garden railroading can be another fascinating aspect to this hobby. Some folks just add their railway to an existing landscape without worrying about scale. Still others focus on obtaining miniature plants to bring their garden landscape more in scale to their trains. There are dwarf Alberta spruce, thyme and sedums. There are nurseries that specialize in miniature plants and ground covers. You can even bonsai certain shrubs and trees to create miniature forests and other landscape features. The large-scale trains are also much more kid friendly and a boon for oldsters whose eyesight is not what it used to be. The scope of this hobby is a function of time, interests and available money. Some folks just enjoy watching trains travel through their garden on a simple track arrangement in an outdoor setting. Others are very much into the garden aspect of this hobby. Still others enjoy the modeling aspects and build wonderful bridges, buildings and trestles in exquisite detail. We call these folks “rivet counters.” You can make this hobby into anything you wish. Getting started in this hobby can be intimidating. There can be a lot to learn. But this is where you lean on other, more experienced garden railroaders. And by all means start small. Who didn’t get started with trains by running a loop of track underneath their Christmas tree? There are lots of garden railroad clubs in Colorado, the closest to us being in Durango. The Denver Garden Railway Society is the largest in the state. It in fact was responsible for starting a national convention for garden railroaders, complete with clinics, a trade show of vendors and visits to local garden railways in the host city. This year’s convention was held in Denver last month with over 800 attending, even from many foreign countries. I attended this convention and enjoyed the many garden railroads I visited. While I love both gardening and large-scale trains, I like to build fine, delicate models that would not do so well in the outdoors with exposure to inclement weather, deer

and other animals. My trains therefore run in an indoor layout above my garage/workshop. Trains are my winter hobby while gardening is my fair weather interest. But maybe you will want to increase interest in your garden by adding large-scale model trains. There is a bimonthly magazine devoted to the hobby: Garden Railways by Klambach Publishing. There are also a couple of online forums that cater exclusively to garden railroaders: http://www.mylargescale. com/Home/tabid/36/Default. aspx and http://www.large scalecentral.com/.