Delta County Independent, Oct. 28, 2015 by Delta County Independent

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NORTH FORK TIMES

SURFACE CREEK NEWS

COMMUNITY ASSET

Paonians transform gravel pit into an amazing resource, B2

SPORTS

STUDENT LEADERSHIP Ken Gates is building character at Cedaredge High School, C2

DELTA COUNTY

IN THE FINAL STRETCH Paonia, Hotchkiss cross country runners advance to state, B6

OCTOBER 28, 2015 VOL. 132, NO. 43

75¢

INDEPENDENT

www.deltacountyindependent.com

All Points Transit expands services BY PAT SUNDERLAND Managing Editor

Sharon Fipps, executive director of All Points Transit, updated Delta City Council members and staff on new transportation initiatives in the Delta area. The city funds the program to the tune of $17,430 a year. All Points Transit provides transportation for disabled and senior citizens throughout Delta County. The service can be used for medical needs, senior meals, shopping, errands, socialization or volunteer opportunities. Fipps said to increase ridership, specifically medical ridership, All Points added two drivers, bringing the number of drivers in Delta County to six. A minivan was added to assist passengers with larger wheelchairs that could not be accommodated by the bus lift. The minivan can also be used when there are just a few passengers. The effort paid off — medi-

cal riders, January through August, were up 39.6 percent, Fipps said. “What we’re doing is working, and I’m thrilled,” she said. All Points also expanded hours in Delta County, to accommodate medical appointments later in the day. In January, a new medical shuttle will begin providing service three days a week. Service will be dedicated to a specific area of the county, bringing riders from Paonia/ Crawford, Hotchkiss and Cedaredge to the hospital and clinics in Delta. All Points also delivers patients to the River Valley Family Health Center in Olathe. Currently, All Points Transit averages 791 rides a month. At that pace, Fipps said All Points Transit will provide 9,945 rides this year. Contributions from Delta County and its municipalities fund 40 percent of the cost of ALL POINTS TO A3

Photo by Pat Sunderland

Fall palette

The reflection of trees and sky on a still pond in Confluence Park caught the eye of watercolor artist Fred Honchell. Working “en plein air” can make it a bit more difficult to control artistic elements, Honchell said, but it’s a wonderful way to get out and see what God has created. Fortunately, weather conditions were ideal — the wind was calm, skies were partly cloudy and the temperature was in the low 70s.

Broadband focus turns to anchor sites BY HANK LOHMEYER Staff Writer

The anchor institutions designated for inclusion in the Region 10 broadband plan are a key element in the overall project vision. The county is working to arrange a discussion of anchor institution issues among local officials at the courthouse on Nov. 2. Actual costs of the broadband plan are based to an extent on the number of anchor institutions that local communities want to see served by the proposed fiberoptic network. Anchor institutions are described generally as government entities that would

have some need for super-fast Internet access. They would include schools, health care facilities like hospitals and clinics, first responder headquarters, libraries and others. Region 10 has distributed a list of over 60 possible anchor institutions in five Delta County municipalities (excluding Orchard City). Region 10’s broadband consultant, NEOFiber of Carbondale, includes the following explanation of anchor institutions’ role in the overall system and its associated costs: “Some grant programs will not pay for customer premise equipment, i.e. equipment that the customer owns. How-

Courthouse closed for training exercise BY PAT SUNDERLAND Managing Editor

The Delta County Courthouse was closed late Friday, Oct. 22, for training designed to test the emergency notification system at the courthouse. Training was conducted by the Delta County Sheriff ’s Office with the assistance of Delta Police Department, and was designed to test the emergency notification system’s “ready opps” and the countywide all page system. Delta County Undersheriff Mark Taylor said the exercise also tested each department’s response to an emergency notification. “In this case a message was sent utilizing the ready opps that an active shooter was in

INDEX

Accent ........................... A4 Activities ....................... A7 Back Page ................... D8 Bruin Tracks ................C3-6 Business ........................ A8 Church ............................C8 Classifieds .................. D1-2 Editorial ......................... A2 Legals ......................... D3-4 North Fork Times ........B1-4 Obituaries ......................B5 School Zone .................. A5 Service Directory ........ D7 Sports ..........................B6-8 Surface Creek News ...C1-7 TV Listings ................. D5-6

the courthouse,” Taylor said. “Approximately 2 minutes later another message utilizing the internal all page system was sent also notifying employees that an active shooter was in the courthouse.” The Delta Police Department helped the sheriff ’s office complete a walkthrough of the building checking doors and looking for proper response to the notification by employees. “I am extremely happy the way everyone involved responded and took this exercise/training serious,” Taylor said. “This is the base training that we can build on and eventually leading up to a full exercise in the future.”

ever, if the network owner or Region 10 maintains ownership of the equipment that is placed at the customer anchor institution, there would be the opportunity to have the grant pay for the equipment. “Once fiber is built within a community, it is much easier

to continue to build out further into the community. The networks within each community have been designed so that either the ISPs can further build out within the community or the cities or towns themselves can build further into the community. Equip-

ment at each of the anchor institutions would also need to be purchased to light the fiber. These costs are included in the Phase 1 of the DOLA grant submission.” At a meeting of county municipal officials last ANCHOR SITES TO A3

Physics students put buoyancy to the test BY PAT SUNDERLAND Managing Editor

Using just corrugated cardboard and duct tape, science students from across Delta County demonstrated the physics of buoyancy at Bill Heddles Recreation Center last week. The “boats” could not exceed four feet in width and eight feet in length, and they had to fit through the doorway. They were carted to the edge of the pool, where two oarsmen climbed in. If they mastered the first test — keeping the watercraft from tipping when they got in — they then attempted to paddle the length of the pool and back. Each team was timed. Style points were awarded for the most dramatic sinkings. Creativity was also judged, with boats sporting names such as Moby Dick, The Bomb, PHS Titanic, Gone Fishin’, USS Molly Brown, Easy A+ and 50 Shades of Tape. The key to stability, one team member explained, was adding cross supports so the sides of the boat didn’t collapse. Cardboard was layered

for the bottom of the boat. The duct tape not only held the assembly together, it also added strength and, in some cases, a decorative element. Delta High School physics teacher Ben Magtutu organized the event for students from Cedaredge, Delta, Paonia and Hotchkiss. For his AP Physics I students, the cardboard boat regatta precedes

a unit on force and mechanics. Buoyancy is a wonderful example of a supportive force that behaves differently under varying circumstances, Magtutu explained. It’s up to the students to figure out why. AP Physics II students just finished a unit of fluids. They were encouraged to apply Archimedes’ Principle PHYSICS TO A3

Photo by Pat Sunderland

“The Craftsman” goes down with Kory Mills and Josh Reeder aboard. The name for their boat came from the Craftsman box they used for its construction.

Election is winding down

Financing college

Trick-or-treat

Delta County election officials advise voters it’s getting late to return your ballots by mail. To ensure your votes count, drop off your ballots at either the Delta County Courthouse at 501 Palmer Street in Delta or the North Fork Annex at 196 W. Hotchkiss Avenue in Hotchkiss. Both locations are equipped with a 24-hour drop-off box. Both locations will also be open Election Day (Nov. 3) from 7 a.m. to 7 p.m. In addition, the polling center in the county courthouse will be open Saturday, Oct. 31, from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. Election results can be viewed at www.delta countyindependent.com or the DCI’s Facebook page.

“Paying for College: FAFSA and Other Financial Options” is the topic of a Parent Academy at Delta High School Tuesday, Nov. 3, from 6 to 7:30 p.m. Dinner will be served, but you must pre-register at dhsparentacademy.weebly.com. Two keynote speakers have been invited to educate parents and guardians about the options for financing education beyond high school. For more information, contact DHS at 874-8061.

Kids between the ages of 1 and 12 are invited to trick-or-treat Delta’s Main Street from 3:30 to 5 p.m. Friday, Oct. 30. At 5 p.m., kids and adults alike will gather at Westminster Hall at the Presbyterian Church of Delta, 4th and Meeker, for a costume contest. Certificates will be awarded for the best boy’s and best girl’s costumes in four age groups (0-3, 4-6, 7-9, 10-12), as well as for the best group effort, best adult costume and best business. To be judged earlier in the day, businesses can call the Delta County Independent at 874-4421.

A2 Wednesday, October 28, 2015

OPINION

LETTERS Help maintain a healthy ag economy Dear Editor: The North Fork Water Conservancy District has a question, #4A, on the ballot for voters residing within the district. Approval of this measure is a win for everyone by helping to keep the ag economy viable and providing for tourism and recreation. Many irrigation companies within the NFWCD have benefited in the past from financial assistance from the NFWCD including the Paonia Reservoir, Lone Cabin Reservoir, Beaver Reservoir, Farmers Ditch, Leroux Creek Water Users, Redlands Mesa Water Users,

Ragged Mountain Water Users and Overland Ditch, as well as domestic water systems. Approval of the measure would allow the NFWCD to continue this assistance by allowing the district to use currently restricted funds, along with their general funds, to continue helping irrigation companies in the district with repairs on aging infrastructure. Approval of the question will not increase taxes, but will allow the NFWCD to accept grants from the State of Colorado, as this is currently restricted by TABOR. By providing financial assis-

tance to these companies, the irrigation systems in the district can be better maintained which promotes a healthy ag economy which in turn flows on to more tourism and also provides habitat for wildlife which promotes more recreation. Some projects also provide flood control which benefits all residents, not just users of irrigation water. The board of directors of the Leroux Creek Water Users Association encourages a yes vote on Ballot Question #4A. Mark E. Smith President Leroux Creek Water Users Association

Ballot Question 4A is a win-win for everyone Dear Editor: The board of directors of the Ragged Mountain Water Users Association (RMWUA) asks property owners in the North Fork Water Conservancy District to vote “YES” on Ballot Question 4A. Approval of the ballot measure will allow the NFWCD to accept State of Colorado grant monies and manage tax revenues with greater financial flexibility and productivity. These benefits will be realized without any increase in tax assessments. They will be advantageous to agriculture and posi-

tively impact the general public, tourism, wildlife habitat, recreation and lifestyle. Many irrigation water entities and citizens within the area have benefited directly and indirectly from financial assistance provided by the NFWCD. Some of those that have directly benefited include the Paonia Reservoir, Lone Cabin Reservoir, Beaver Reservoir, Farmers Ditch, Leroux Creek Water Users, Redlands Mesa Water Users, Ragged Mountain Water Users, Overland Ditch Company and domestic water sys-

Dear Editor: In his letter to the DCI editor (10/21/15), William H. Snyer expressed concern about “climate misinformation, deception and outright lies.” I have the same concern. But I have a different take on where it is coming from. Who will lose big-time, if climate change is solidly linked to the burning of fossil fuels? Obviously the fossil fuel industry ... and the stakes are enormous! When the tobacco industry was faced with a similar dilemma — a threatened link between using tobacco and cancer, heart disease and addiction — they came up with strategies that kept the public unaware of the dangers for decades (their own research on animals concluded in the 1950s that cigarette smoking caused addiction and cancer, a knowledge they hid from the public until forced by legal action to reveal it in 2009). One of their very successful ploys was to argue that there’s “no scientific consensus” on the health effects of using

tobacco. They funded “scientific studies” that were designed to cast doubt on the real science. Today we nickname phony evidence like this “tobacco science.” Well, seems the fossil fuel industry has been using the tobacco playbook. A good example is in Mr. Snyer’s letter. He uses the “no consensus among climate scientists on global warming” argument and cites the Oregon Petition, with its 31,000 scientists as proof. I’d call it tobacco science, not proof. The petition, and the documents included with it, were all made to look like official papers from the prestigious National Academy of Science. When the National Academy of Science found out about it, they released this statement: “The Oregon Petition project was a deliberate attempt to mislead scientists and to rally them in an attempt to undermine support for the Kyoto Protocol. The petition was not based on a review of the science of global climate change, nor were its signers experts

I-70 bus expands transportation options Dear Editor: An article in the Grand Junction Daily Sentinel Oct. 22 issue, “Glenwoodto-Denver bus line to add weekend service,” has an extremely important caveat included, the possibility of extending the service to Grand Junction. This is an exciting possibility to improve transportation options not only in Mesa County but in neighboring communities, particularly Delta County. I sincerely hope that organizations such as the chambers of commerce in Mesa County, the Grand Junction Economic Partnership, the city and town governments in Mesa County and the Mesa County Commissioners do whatever can be done to make this a reality. I am urging Delta County Economic Development and chambers in Delta County to get behind this effort as well as government entities here in Delta County. This service offered by the Colorado Department of Transportation (call Bustang) is about a lot more than reducing congestion on I-70. First, given that it heads eastbound early in the morning and westbound early in the evening with limited stops, it is possible to do same day meetings or appointments. Second,

tems. Indirect benefits to everyone in the North Fork include flood control and enhanced aesthetic beauty. RMWUA represents 24 member stockholders who use irrigation water within the NFWCD. The board of RMWUA supports the proposed ballot measure for the November election. We believe approval of this ballot measure is a win-win for everyone residing in the area. Gary Volk President Ragged Mountain Water Users Dear Editor: Association Attention North Fork Valley residents, Whether you are young, old, or in-between, sometimes the unthinkable in the field of climate sci- happens. When it does, the North Fork Ambuence.” The credentials of lance responds quickly the signatories were not to your emergency. The verified; they included North Fork Ambulance is Charles Darwin, Michael the only ambulance servJ. Fox and Drs. “Frank ing the North Fork area. Burns,” “Honeycutt” and We are not tax supported, “Pierce,” the lead charac- and are supported locally, ters from the hit TV show independent of governM*A*S*H. It may come ment. Without the support of as no surprise that the authors of the Oregon our community, this serPetition worked with the vice may be terminated. Exxon-backed George C. Send in your support to Marshall Institute, a think keep trained emergency tank whose CEO, William medical technicians and O’Keefe, has since been the ambulance respondexposed as a registered ing from within your Oil Industry lobbyist. community. Accidents can happen Coincidentally, it has just been revealed by internal and even healthy people documents that ExxonMo- get sick. Now is the time bil knew as early as 1981 to send in your North that burning fossil fuels Fork Ambulance memcreates climate change. bership! Response to our What did they do with membership drive is what that knowledge? They will keep your ambulancspent $30 million over the es responding in your next 27 years promoting community 24/7/365. Our climate change denial. goal is 2,700 members by “Climate misinformation, Dec. 17. Currently memdeception and outright berships received total lies?” Yes. Let’s all wake 1,186; we are not quite up to where it is coming halfway there. There are three fast from ... and why. Steve Lyons and easy ways to enroll: 1. By mail: Send in Paonia

Check the source for ‘climate misinformation’

Delta County Independent

it starts and stops at Union Station in Denver where great options for other transportation are immediately available, RTD bus and light rail and scads of taxis, not an airport somewhere near the Kansas or Nebraska borders. It puts passengers in the heart of the metropolitan area where government entities and businesses are close by. It also is in the heart of the area for all four professional athletic teams and conference, convention and concert venues. Third is it appears to be extremely economical, probably just slightly more than the cost of driving one’s own vehicle and certainly well below the cost of flying and car rentals. For us here in Delta County the majority choose driving. If time is of the essence we must go to either Montrose or Grand Junction for flights, with most choosing Grand Junction because more flight options are available and generally at lower (though still outrageous) costs. How great would it be to drive to Grand Junction, climb on the bus for, say, around $40 and get off in the heart of Denver? This is an opportunity for our two communities to collaborate on something that is beneficial to both.

How great would it be to at least once stop the “Friday night football” rivalries that sometimes stop us from presenting a unified front for western Colorado? After all, what is good for Mesa County is good for Delta County and vice versus. The same could apply for western Garfield County with a stop, say, in the Rifle or Parachute area. On a very personal note I would be a very frequent user. As a 75year-old businessman and community activist with severe arthritis in my feet, the driving trip has become physically challenging. I often decline to make important business and community trips into Denver that this service would make possible. Flying presents its own obstacles above cost and location of the airports. I have sleep apnea and must carry my small bipap machine with me. TSA is enough of a hassle, but try it when you are carrying a strange little electronic device in its bag. My last experience some years ago has stopped me from flying. So come on everyone, let us join hands and make this happen. We are all in this together and maybe we can learn to work together. Tom Huerkamp Orchard City

It’s time to renew your ambulance membership the membership form you received in the mail, or call our office at 8724303 to have a form sent to you. Pay by check or credit card. 2. Call us!: It’s simple. We can do the paperwork for you! You can sign up or renew your ambulance membership by calling our office at 872-4303. 3. Online: You can sign up or renew your membership online. Pay by PayPal: www.northfork ambulance.com The greatest benefit of your membership support is that it will keep emergency medi-

cal response time to your community as short as possible. Other benefits of membership include a 60 percent discount for those with no insurance coverage and no co-pay for those who have insurance. Let’s work together to keep this emergency service operating. Don’t let the unthinkable happen in our valley; let’s not lose this vital service. Board of Directors North Fork Ambulance Dan Miller, Bob Sussman, Tom Mingen, Don Geddes, Larry Hughes, Clinton Clock

Just to be on the safe side Dear Editor: Mr. Mason in his letter denying climate change (10/21/15) talked about the satellite temperature record, but cited no articles. I was able to find some charts online, but none of them agree with Mr. Mason’s assertions. http://www.drroyspencer. com/latest-global-tem peratures/, www.skepti calscience.com/satellitemeasurements-warming-troposphere.htm, and http://nsstc.uah.edu/cli mate/.

William H. Snyer, writing in the same edition of the DCI, did mention three climate skeptics by name so I was able to look them up. All three appear to be well-paid writers and speakers with connections to the Heartland Institute, a “think tank” which funnels money from the oil industry to climate change deniers. One of the men, Jay Lehr, science director for the Heartland Institute, has the distinction of having served three months in prison for an unrelated episode of dishonesty. It would be wonderful if these gentlemen were correct, but as long as 97 percent of scientists agree that climate change is real I’m going to vote for clean energy to be on the safe side. Dick Gilmore Delta

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

News: editor@deltacountyindependent.com Advertising: ads@deltacountyindependent.com YEARLY SUBSCRIPTION RATES Delta County (includes Olathe Somerset & Maher) ....$29.00 Seniors in Delta County (65 and over) ....................................$26.00 In-State ............................................$33.00 Out-of-State .....................................$37.00 OWNERSHIP & MANAGEMENT Publishers .... Norman & Gladys Sunderland General Manager ........... Randy Sunderland Managing Editor ................. Pat Sunderland Advertising Manager . Roxanne McCormick Production Manager ......... Ron Sunderland

LOCAL NEWS

Delta County Independent

Wednesday, October 28, 2015

Anchor sites

Photo by Pat Sunderland

Emily Nortnik and Naomi Hayner keep their sturdy boat aﬂoat in the pool at Bill Heddles Recreation Center.

Physics FROM PAGE A1 of Buoyancy as well as Newton’s Third Law to improve the boats they designed as Physics I students. Any DHS team that made it the length of the pool and back earned a test exemption — meaning they can drop their lowest test score when grades are tallied. Two boats sank in a dramatic fashion, after making it to the end of the pool but capsizing on the return leg. Tre Johnson and Beau Byers built “The Stringbean” and Evan and Emily Nortnik were in “Whatever Floats Your Boat.” Hotchkiss High School students Will Drbohlav,

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Nick Cambria, Alex Aguillera and Luke Yerion won the spirit award. They built a canoe called “The Rescue Probe.” Dressed as lifeguards, their two oarsmen repeatedly attempted to get into the canoe but it kept tipping over. Magtutu recognized them for their perseverance. The most creative boat was “The Anchor,” built by Kourtney Carmichael and Jordan Hughes. Brandon Ware and Oakley Newman were recognized for the ambitious design. “Queen Anne’s Revenge 2” was named after the pirate Blackbeard’s flagship. The boat sported an imposing figurehead and carried a treasure chest that was surely filled with gold coins and jewels — all made of cardboard, of course. Ware and Newman carried out the theme by wearing pirate hats and waving cutlasses. Queen Anne’s Revenge 2 tied with “Sharkbait,” built by Joey Fillmore, Kaelan Hill and Mackenzie Hill for the fastest time at 1:03. Magtutu hopes to make the regatta an annual event. He expressed his appreciation to Bill Heddles Recreation Center for waiving admission fees for the students, and to the school district for allowing the afternoon to be used for experiential learning. A video of the regatta can be viewed on the school district website, www.deltaschools. com.

FROM PAGE A1 month, Region 10 officials confirmed that the $753,000 cash pledge by Delta County will be used for ensuring that every municipality will have a “carrier-neutral location” regardless of whether it designates any anchor institutions, or even if it doesn’t approve the “optout” proposition on the Nov. 3 ballot. In addition, there will be a certain amount of new construction as fiberoptic cable is installed for the system as currently configured. That alone is being described as a project that is at least a year or two away from anticipated completion. The proposed Region 10 fiberoptic cable network is to be a “middle mile” network. Region 10 intends to purchase access to a regional Internet hub at Albuquerque and then dis-

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tion it does not currently perform. The DMEA idea envisages the future possibility of making fiberoptic cable available to each of its members, a service configuration called “fiber to the premises,” or FTTP. An alternative to FTTP is a system that broadcasts Internet signals wirelessly to multiple receivers from a single transmitter. Such a system is being employed by Lake City, according to Region 10 broadband consultant NEOFiber. The NEOFiber broadband report for Region 10 states, “As Lake City is being contemplated to be served with a wireless tower, there are no costs associated with building to the anchor institutions; however, there would be a cost for equipment that would be included.” The costs referred to are for running fiberoptic

Council will meet Thursday to review city manager applications BY PAT SUNDERLAND Managing Editor

This Thursday, Delta City Council will be sitting down in an executive session to review the applications for city manager. A total of 45 applications were received as of the Oct. 9 deadline. The city’s consultant, Mercer Group, had planned to winnow down the number of applications for review, but councilmembers said they would like to see all 45 resumes, not just those “handpicked” by the Carbondale-based recruitment firm. Council also discussed dates for interviews, and settled on Nov. 23-24. Advertisements for the city manager opening stress the word “experienced” in describing the type of individual the city is looking for. The ideal candidate will be a “firm but fair” manager

who will lead the council in setting long-range goals. Top candidates will exhibit proven leadership, team building and decision-making skills, and be willing to get out and meet the employees from time to time. The recruitment brochure continues, “Honesty, transparency, two-way communication and support of staff will be keys to success. The ideal manager will be involved in the community because he/ she wants to, not because he/she has to, and will promote a positive image of the city with the citizens. Economic development experience, as well as familiarity with state and federal grant-funding opportunities, will be a plus. Candidates looking for a “stepping stone” are advised to look elsewhere. “The City of Delta has

Operation Troop Bounty launched Lee Marts VFW Post 3571, its Auxiliary, and the Delta Library are teaming up again to help supply deployed active duty military men and women with “goodie boxes” from

All Points FROM PAGE A1 the rides. State and federal grants make up the difference. In addition, All Points Transit recently held an Oktoberfest fundraiser in Montrose. Fipps said transportation is an “expensive venture,” but it is vital for accessibility and inde-

tribute that content over a fiberoptic network of cable owned partly by itself and partly by DMEA, which has promised to provide access for Region 10. From the middle mile portion of the system, according to the current plan, access to fiberoptic cable and associated Internet services is to be offered through the middle mile component by Region 10 for a fee to private company Internet service providers (ISPs). Region 10 has promised that gigabit speeds will be offered to the private ISPs for $1,200 to $1,500, less than the private ISPs currently pay for the content they sell. There are numerous ISPs operating in the region now. In addition, DMEA has had a proposal under consideration to initiate a business enterprise as a private ISP, a func-

pendence for seniors, the disabled and the general public in All Points’ service area, which includes all of Delta and Montrose counties, as well as a portion of San Miguel County. The presentation by Fipps was made during a budget work session that also included input from Delta County Economic Development (DCED) and the Delta Area Chamber of Commerce. The city budgeted $25,000 for DCED, the same as in 2015, and set aside an additional $25,000 for a specific project not yet identified. Leslie Workman, chamber director, asked the city to join the President’s Circle, the highest level of membership, and to donate $3,000 for special events such as Deltarado Days. The 2016 budget accommodates the higher level of membership, but councilmembers want to consider requests for special events as the need arises. The $3,000 was set aside to be spent at their discretion. The 2016 budget also includes donations of $2,000 for fireworks; $300 for Delta High School’s grad night party; $50 for street flags; $585 for the Health Fair (offsetting the rec center rental fee); and $1,000 for the housing rehab program administered by the Delta Housing Authority. Club 20, Region 10 and Colorado Municipal League dues are also included in the budget.

recently struggled to keep a city manager in the position for longer than a couple of years,” the brochure notes. “As such, the city desires longevity in the top job.” The position pays $102,000 to $120,000, plus a benefits package that includes health, dental and vision insurance, along with retirement.

cable to any anchor institutions that a community wants served within its jurisdiction. Under the Region 10 plan as understood at present, Delta County communities will be asked to pay at least part of the costs for providing direct fiberoptic cable access to the anchor institutions. Presently in Delta County, the Town of Orchard City is contemplating a wireless tower system rather than an FTTP configuration. DMEA is working with Region 10 on the middle mile plan. DMEA intends to provide access for the Region 10 system on some of its own fiberoptic cable. For almost two years, DMEA has been in the process of running fiberoptic cable to each of its 25 substations for in-house electric grid monitoring and control. DMEA currently has easement rights across private land for the utility uses of its wires. But the co-op will have to pay private landowners additional sums, estimated by some people at $500,000 total, for converting those utility easements to commercial Internet use. Officials from both DMEA and Region 10 have told the DCI that $500,000 of a grant that Region 10 has been promised will be available to DMEA for “perfecting” of its easements.

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home. This joint project, dubbed Operation Troop Bounty, provides a local way for community members to provide active duty military personnel with such useful and appreciated things as travel-size toiletries, snacks (such as jerky, gum, individual-size packs of snack crackers and cookies, unfortunately exempting chocolate, which melts in so many environments), books, hard candy, individual packets of baby wipes, packaged individual drinks (coffee, tea, cocoa, etc.), puzzles, combs, and more. There will be a complete list at the Delta Library or you can call Jennifer Wright, Auxiliary president at 640-7720. Items donated at the Delta Library are collected, packaged and shipped overseas to deployed individuals who share the bounty with their comrades. Local GIs always take the number one priority of the local post, so if you have loved ones deployed in harm’s way overseas, call the Delta Library staff at 874-9630 or Jennifer Wright at 6407720 with a name and address.

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A4 Wednesday, October 28, 2015

ACCENT

Delta County Independent

VFW reaches out to needy and homeless veterans

Lee Marts VFW Post 3571 of Delta is teaming up with the Colorado Aviation Business Association’s (CABA) holiday airlift and the local Dollar Tree in Delta to assist needy and homeless veterans and their families in the area. This will be the fourth year that the Veterans of Foreign Wars of the United States has worked with CABA to distribute food and toys to needy veterans. CABA-affiliated businesses collect non-perishable food and toys throughout the state and, using donated aircraft and student pilots from the Metro State aviation program, airlift these goods to locations

throughout the state of Colorado. Members of VFW posts in Delta and Montrose work together to help distribute an aircraft full of items airlifted into the Montrose airport. These airlifted items are then added to the locally donated items the VFW members have collected, packaged into individual and family boxes and distributed to needy or homeless veterans and their families in Delta and Montrose. Last year, Dollar Tree in Delta graciously offered to serve as a collection point for the project. The hundreds of pounds of non-perishable food and toys collected locally and received through

the CABA holiday airlift provided 17 packages for locally needy veterans and their families, with additional special packages made available to homeless vets in the area with the assistance of The Abraham Connection. The generosity of the people of the Delta community and the CABAassociated businesses with the help of the staff at Dollar Tree in Delta and The Abraham Connection has in the past and can again this year help members of VFW Post 3571 and its Auxiliary to help veterans who need “a little boost” around the holiday season. A donation box will be available at Dollar Tree from Nov. 2 through the first week of December. The CABA airlift is scheduled to arrive in Montrose early in December, then all donated items will be sorted, packaged and distributed by members of the VFW and Auxiliary in Delta. For further information, call 874- 8172.

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Balloon launch

Willow Tree Care Center residents and Yoli Saenz, Lifestyle 360 program director, observed Breast Cancer Awareness Month Monday, Oct. 19, with the facility’s sixth annual balloon launch followed by a pie social. On the right is Dixie Dickson, honorary survivor for 2015.

It’s hip to be square Are you looking for a new, fun activity to learn? Are you looking for something that provides “easy exercise” and great mental stimulation? Try square dancing! It’s hip to be square, so come for lessons beginning Thursday, Nov. 5, from 7-9 p.m., at Redeemer Lutheran Church, 1000 Pioneer Road, Delta. Sponsored by the Delta Hub Wheelers square dance club, these classes are your chance to join the growing square dance movement. All ages are welcome. Square dancing is a great family activity or something couples and singles can enjoy. Partners are not required. Lessons will be held weekly, on Thursdays, at the same time and location, through early 2016. The first session on Nov. 5 will be free. After that, sessions are only $5 per person, per week and lessons will be led by instructor Naaman Moorehouse of Grand Junction, a popular area dance caller. Give square dancing

a try for the first two or three sessions. Many romances have begun on the square dance floor, and many married couples have been dancing together for decades. The Delta Hub Wheelers have regular dances scheduled on the first and third Saturdays, monthly, at 7

p.m., in the Bill Heddles Recreation Center’s aerobic room. All are welcome to come and watch the regular dancers at no charge. For more information on the classes or the club, contact Helen Chandler at 856-4187, or Moorehouse at 970-433-7854.

Photo submitted

Square dancing lessons in Delta will begin on Thursday, Nov. 5, with a free session at 7 p.m., at Redeemer Lutheran Church, 1000 Pioneer Road, Delta. Zee Pacheco is one of the Delta Hub Wheeler dancers and enjoys a move at a recent dance with other dancers. All ages are welcome to come and have fun with square dancing!

Senior meals for November Senior CommUnity meals are served at four dining sites in Delta County — Cedaredge Community Center (MondayThursday), Delta Community Center (MondayFriday), Hotchkiss Senior Center (Monday-Thursday) and Paonia Senior Citizen Center (Monday, Wednesday and Friday). Meals on Wheels are also delivered from each location. More information is available by calling the Cedaredge meal site, 856-3636; the Delta meal site, 874-7662; Hotchkiss Senior Center, 872-3494;

and Paonia Senior Citizen Center, 527-3435. The menu through Nov. 30 follows: Monday, Nov. 2 — Chili con carne with cheese and diced onion, tossed salad, fiesta veggie blend, cornbread and tapioca. Tuesday, Nov. 3 — Baked fish, fish house coleslaw, rice pilaf, peas and carrots, pineapple tidbits and cinnamon knot. Wednesday, Nov. 4 — Roast beef, mashed potatoes and gravy, cauliflower, pickled beets, wheat roll, frosted cake and orange wedge. Thursday, Nov. 5 — Chicken and noodles, green beans, chopped Italian salad, cheddar drop biscuit and apple crisp. Friday, Nov. 6 — Beef tips with mushroom sauce, broccoli, V8 juice, breadstick, sugar cookie and peaches. Monday, Nov. 9 — Beef burrito, refried beans, Spanish rice, pineapple mandarin mix and cream-

filled churro. Tuesday, Nov. 10 — Oven fried chicken, tossed salad, baked beans, western corn and strawberry shortcake. Wednesday, Nov. 11 — Meat loaf, garlic potatoes, Waldorf salad, broccoli, wheat roll and cherry crisp. Thursday, Nov. 12 — Baked ham, sweet potatoes, kidney bean salad, peas and onions, wheat roll and cake. Friday, Nov. 13 — Pizza mac casserole, winter blend veggies, tossed salad, French bread and tropical fruit cup. Monday, Nov. 16 — Dijon chicken, parmesan pea salad, baked potato, Brussels sprouts and peach cobbler. Tuesday, Nov. 17 — Liver or beef patty with onions, mashed potatoes with mushroom gravy, calico vegetable salad, green beans, garlic breadstick and Emerald Isle dessert. Thursday, Nov. 19 — Ham and beans, corn-

bread, cottage cheese and mandarin oranges, parsley carrots and oatmeal raisin cookie. Friday, Nov. 20 — Stuffed tilapia, fettuccine primavera, mandarin spinach salad, Italian vegetable blend and applesauce cake. Monday, Nov. 23 — Sloppy joes, potato wedges, sweet corn, three-bean salad, lemon pie cookie bar and orange wedge. Tuesday, Nov. 24 — Spaghetti with meat sauce, broccoli, tossed salad, garlic breadstick and fruit cup. Wednesday, Nov. 25 — Roast turkey, mashed potatoes and gravy, cranberry sauce, green bean casserole, wheat roll and pumpkin pie with whipped cream. Thursday and Friday, Nov. 26 and 27 — Meal sites closed. Monday, Nov. 30 — Lasagna, five-way mixed vegetables, mandarin spinach salad, Italian bread and strawberry Jell-O dessert.

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Resource-ful

Photo by Pat Sunderland

The number of vendors at the Senior Expo hosted by the Delta County Senior Resource Council reached a new high this year at 45. The 230 seniors who attended the Oct. 22 event left with lots of great information and fun goodies. The lucky ones also took home door prizes.

SCHOOL

Delta County Independent

Wednesday, October 28, 2015

DHS hosts blood drive

Virtuous Kids

Photo submitted

Lincoln Elementary and the Kiwanis Club of Delta recently recognized the Virtuous Kids pictured above: (front row, left to right) Claudia Gonzalez (responsible), Fabiola Arellano (trustworthy), Alexis Kirkman (respectful), Emma Simental (caring), Nee Blut Moo (on task), Corbin Ortega (trustworthy); (back row) Brian Delasancha (respectful), Bethani Miller (determination), Ana Asavei (responsible), Clayton Cryer (responsible), Christian Ramirez (kindness), Alan Asavei (perseverance), Jasmin Saenz (encouragement), Faith Watkins (on task).

Parents invited to faith-based abstinence workshop this Saturday The Delta Pregnancy Resource Center invites parents to a “K-12 Parenting for Purity on Purpose” faith-based workshop Saturday, Oct. 31, at the Delta Performing Arts Center. Shelly Donahue, an authority in the field of teen sex, is in Delta all this week meeting with students, parents, com-

munity members and pastors. Standing at 6’3” tall, Donahue is the founder of a new outreach called “TALL Truth” and she is intent on helping teenagers make healthy choices to raise the bar of sexual self-control in their lives so they can reach their destinies. Her career spans 19 years in the public school classroom

teaching health and P.E., and coaching volleyball, basketball and track. For 20 years she has been a motivational speaker/ teacher for WAIT (Why Am I Tempted?) training, an abstinence and relationship program. The workshop runs from 9 a.m. to noon Saturday. To register, call 874-5733.

Delta High School is hosting a blood drive through St. Mary’s Medical Center Wednesday, Nov. 4, from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. Walk-ins are welcome between those times. Photo IDs are required. The DHS Student Council has set a goal of 80 donors. For more information, call the Blood Center at 970-298-2555.

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Defensive driving for teens “Alive at 25,” a defensive driving course for young drivers, is offered to drivers ages 15-24. A Colorado State Patrol trooper will provide approximately four hours of classroom instruction designed to prevent traffic violations, collisions and/or fatalities. Participants will receive a certificate for this course which enables them to test for a driving permit at age 15 1/2 or older. The next class takes place at Bill Heddles Recreation Center Monday, Nov. 9, from 4:30 to 9 p.m. Register and pay for this class online at www.aliveat25. us by Saturday, Nov. 7.

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We are ready for Fall ~ Are you? Terriﬁc Kids

Photos submitted

The following Garnet Mesa students earned a Terriﬁc Kid Award from the Kiwanis Club of Delta for their efforts to be a responsible citizen and student. Pictured above are kindergarten and ﬁrst grade students (back row) Kyler Anderson, Brody Short, Joshua Dicamillo, Josiah Padilla; (front row) Enzo Sanchez, Rebecca Brewer, Gabriela Hrabe and Karen Haro. Below are second and third graders J.J. Cross, Rebecca Gonzalez, Alexia Sanchez, Emmalee Johnson, Makayla Wear, Hunter Simineo and Alyna Valdez

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A6 Wednesday, October 28, 2015

LOCAL NEWS

Delta County Independent

Street Rodders aid homeless shelter project BY HANK LOHMEYER Staff Writer

The beautiful and impressive displays of automotive masterwork staged by the Delta Street Rodders car club at Deltarado Days are providing a real benefit to the community. Members of the club presented a donation of

$1,000 to the board of the Abraham Connection last week. The money is for the Abraham Connection’s emergency shelter which is nearing completion. The shelter will provide emergency overnight shelter, hot meals and other services for those in need of assistance.

The donation comes at an especially important time for the shelter project, as Abraham Connection board member Bert Sibley noted. “We are struggling at the moment to raise needed funds to pay for completing the building and to raise additional operating funds for the coming winter.” Board members had hoped to open the 201516 season at the new shelter on Nov. 1, but plans have changed. For the first few weeks, the group will be back at Delta United Methodist Church. The Delta Street Rodders car club staged its annual car show this year on the grassy venue of Confluence Park where it has traditionally been held. For some seven or eight years, club members told the DCI, they have been making donations to various community organizations with funds left over from the car show after all of their expenses were paid. Proceeds for last week’s donation came from the 2015 show. The club displayed its community involvement and generosity earlier in the spring when members helped Abraham Connection with a $300 check presentation from the 2014 car show.

Photo by Hank Lohmeyer

Members of the Delta Street Rodders car club met with the board of directors of Abraham Connection for presentation of $1,000 by the club for the emergency shelter that’s nearing completion. At center of photo, club president Sam Vasicko presents the check to Cheryl Oeltjenbruns of Abraham Connection. Others in front are, from left, club members Mike Worthington, Larry Rhine and Mary Jane Rhine; (back row) club member Stan Clark, and Abraham Connection directors Ed Oeltjenbruns, Bert Sibley, Darla Volgamore, Dick Kirkpatrick and Karl Martin.

Law enforcement blotter

From the Delta warrant and placed with Grand Mesa Youth SerPolice Department: vices Center. Oct. 20: Oct. 19: Darrin S. Fredlund, 20, Angel B. Rodriguez, 20, of Olathe was arrested of Delta was arrested and and jailed for alleged sec- jailed on a warrant with ond degree burglary and a $50 bond and issued a ticket for alleged drove theft. Keith A. Goff, 48, of vehicle when license susHotchkiss was issued a pended. ticket for alleged tres- Oct. 21: Isaac J. Gallegos, 24, pass. A 16-year-old female of Delta was arrested of Grand Junction was and jailed on five wararrested on a no bond rants with a total $8,850 in bonds. Oct. 23: Sadie N. Harper, 18, of Delta was issued a ticket for alleged careless driving, failed to present evidence of insurance and drove vehicle without a valid driver license after being involved in a single vehicle crash in the 30 block of Stafford Lane. No injuries were reported or observed. The vehicle was towed from the scene. Oct. 24: Maisie F. Thurston, 21, of Grand Junction �� was issued a ticket for � �� alleged careless driving �� after being involved in �� a single vehicle crash in �� the 1100 block of Main �� Street. No injuries were �� reported or observed and �� the vehicle was driven �� from the scene. �� Christian I. Acuna�� Sandoval, 32, of Delta, �� was arrested and jailed �� for alleged harassment. Martin A. Martinez, �� 38, of Delta was issued a ticket for alleged careless driving and driving while license revoked – HTO �� after being involved in a single vehicle crash in the 900 block of Crawford Avenue. No injuries were reported or observed. The vehicle was towed from the scene. Oct. 25: Octavio Rodriguez, 24, of Delta was arrested and jailed on a warrant with a $250 bond. Craig L. Smith, 31, of Delta was arrested and jailed on a warrant with a $300 bond.

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Citations: 18 tickets for traffic violations were issued this week, eight for speeding. From the Delta County Sheriff’s Office (partial list): Oct. 20: The theft of an elec-

HOTCHKISS PARANORMAL INVESTIGATORS 4TH ANNUAL HAUNTED HOUSE

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tric fencer was reported from an open shed on Redlands Mesa Road. An abandoned backpack was recovered on the property. Oct. 21: Deputies responded to the report of a two-vehicle accident with no reported injuries. The accident occurred on private property at 1765 Highway 50, Delta. A Crawford woman reported a possible case of child abuse concerning her renters. The report was forwarded to Child Protective Services. Deputies called to assist with a suicidal female who threatened to jump into traffic on Highway 65. Two additional attempted suicides were reported during the week. Oct. 22: A Hotchkiss area woman reported identity theft in which someone opened a Sprint cell phone account in her name in Texas and ran up a $3,000 bill. The theft of a vehicle was reported in Eckert. The vehicle was entered into NCIC/CCIC database. A Crawford area woman said a suspicious male had been spotted tampering with the padlock used to secure her property. Oct. 23: Deputies were advised of a vehicle stolen from a home on Long Gulch Road in Crawford. The vehicle was located just a half mile south of the residence. There are no suspects at this time. At 6:02 p.m., deputies responded to a three-vehicle accident in the turning lane of Highway 92 and Highway 65. There were no injuries, and the Colorado State Patrol arrived on scene to complete the investigation. Deputies responded to 21647 E Road in reference to a truck hitting a horse. There were no injuries to the occupants of the vehicle and the Colorado State Patrol arrived on scene to investigate the accident. Oct. 26: At 7:36 a.m., Deputy Buffington responded to Stevens Gulch Road for a one-vehicle accident with reported injuries.

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�� 12 yrs. old & up ~ $8 11 yrs. old & under ~ $5

ENTER AT YOUR OW N RISK!

Delta County Independent

ACTIVITIES

Wednesday, October 28, 2015

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A new exhibit is in place at the Delta County (Historical Society) Museum in honor of Veterans Day and all veterans, with a focus on World War II and the hometown support for the troops. Delta County families, citizens and businesses supported the war effort with monetary donations through eight War Loan Drives from 1941 through 1945, investing several million dollars from this county alone. Locally, the Delta County Canning Factory played a major role in providing canned locally

Chess tourney set for Nov. 7 All ages are invited to participate in the annual amateur chess tournament at Bill Heddles Recreation Center in Delta. The event will be held Saturday, Nov. 7, from 10 a.m. to 5:30 p.m. Registration fee is $15 for adults and $10 for kids ages 16 and under. Registration fees cover the awards. Please register in advance or by 9 a.m. the day of the event. The tournament will consist of six rounds with a limit of one hour for each game. Please bring a snack to share. For more information or to register in advance, call 874-0923.

Petrified wood: how to preserve and polish it

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been identified, who will accept the articles for the family. The Delta County Museum is located at 251 Meeker Street in Delta; phone 874-8721. Light refreshments will be available at the open house, and the community is invited to share stories, as well, for this memorable event.

Enjoy snacks, activities at Senior Connection Calling all seniors! If you’re looking for a new way to get out of the house and enjoy the company of other seniors, the Senior Connection at Delta United Methodist Church is for you. The next gathering is Thurs-

day, Nov. 5, at 1:30 p.m. and will include games, puzzles, conversation and companionship. Refreshments will be served. For more information call the church at 874-9501. Come and see if Senior Connection is for you.

‘Mary Poppins’ brings magic and music to Magic Circle stage Magic Circle Theatre’s production of “Mary Poppins” brings to the Montrose stage the magic of the Walt Disney film of the same name, based on the stories of P. L. Travers and interpreted by Julian Fellowes (of “Downton Abbey” fame). Directed by Tom Chamberlain and Kathy Murdoch, assistant director, the musical combines infectious songs with wholesome entertainment fueled by dazzling choreography. Becky Northey serves as music director and Amy Nelp is choreographer. With a cast of more than 30 singing and

dancing characters, the Magic Circle stage will be awash in color, light and spectacle. The music and lyrics were crafted by the Academy Award-winning duo Robert and Richard Sherman. Always the hallmark of a good musical, a bevy of memorable songs fill the theater. Expect to hear “Chim Chim Cheree,” “Practically Perfect,” “Jolly Holiday,” “A Spoonful of Sugar,” “Let’s Go Fly A Kite,” “Feed The Birds,” and the showstopping “Supercalifragilisticexpialidocious.” During its six-year run on Broadway, “Mary Pop-

Daddy/ Daughter Dance set in the Orient

pins” was performed more than 2,600 times, making it one of Broadway’s longest running shows. Having been nominated for seven Tony Awards, the musical continues to be popular in regional theaters everywhere. “Mary Poppins” opens Nov. 6 for four weekends of performances. Magic Circle Theatre tickets can be purchased online at http://magiccircleplayers. com, by telephone at 2497838, or in person at the box office, 420 S. 12th Street, Montrose, from 2 to 5 p.m., Tuesdays, Wednesdays and Thursdays.

Photo submitted

Lavishly decorated tables, which are centered on the theme of a favorite book, are the highlight of the Sugar Plum Festival. The focus of Altrusa International is literacy, and the Delta club highlights that educational outreach with several ongoing annual projects. After each Sugar Plum event, for example, all books featured on the decorated tables are donated to various lending libraries in The annual Daddy/ the community. Daughter Dance will be held Saturday, Nov. 14, at Bill Heddles Recreation Center. This year’s theme is “A Journey to the Orient.” This dance is primarily for ages 3-12, but older Join Altrusa Interna- 104 Meeker Street. projects. Altrusans help girls are welcome. Admis- tional of Delta in “Leading On Saturday, ticket many community orgasion is $20/couple at the to a Better Community” holders can shop the ven- nizations, including door or $15 for couples by attending its annual dors from 9 a.m. to noon, the Delta Food Pantry, who register prior to 5 Sugar Plum Festival Fri- and then enjoy a scrump- The Abraham Connecp.m. Nov. 13. Each addi- day, Nov. 13, and Satur- tious lunch followed by tion, Delta Opportutional person will cost day, Nov. 14. This year’s a dazzling fashion show, nity School, Tri-County $5. theme, “A Many Splen- for only $30. The lun- Resource Center, House This is a special eve- dored Thing ... A Journey cheon ticket also includes of Promise and others. ning of little girls in party to the East,” will provide a pass to Friday night fes- Altrusa International of dresses making memo- an experience you won’t tivities. Luncheon tickets Delta is an active, thrivries with their dads and want to miss. may also be purchased ing and growing club, granddads. A king and Great appetizers, choc- by calling 874-7756. Tick- and is currently acceptprincess will be crowned. olate fountain, table view- ets are available only in ing new members. Call There will also be lots of ing and artisan shopping advance. acting president Debbie great music and prizes. along with a cash bar will The proceeds from the Atchley at 874-3907 for Please bring a snack to be the setting on Friday Sugar Plum Festival go more information on club share. from 5:30 – 8 p.m. Tickets back to the community in events, activities and The doors open at 6:30 are $10 and available at the form of scholarships membership informap.m.; the dance starts at The Place I Go located at and community service tion. 7 p.m.

Altrusans host popular Sugar Plum Nov. 13-14

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was from Delta, and he is buried in our cemetery. His story was told in an Oct. 14 article in the DCI, in which a descendant of Bellmire was sought so that some recently discovered personal artifacts found at the crash site could be delivered to a descendant. As a result of the DCI article, a relative of Ensign Bellmire has

The Delta County Rock Wranglers will meet Thursday, Nov. 12, at 7 pm. at 511 E. 10th Street in Delta. The program will be studying kinds of petrified wood and how to preserve and polish it. Everyone is welcome.

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grown vegetables and fruit under the Town Talk brand name and which was shipped throughout America for our troops. A special open house for the exhibit will be held on Saturday, Nov. 7, from 2 to 3:30 p.m., during which several local WWII veterans will be honored and who will have lots of stories to tell about their war-time experiences. School children are especially encouraged to attend as there is no better way to learn about this part of our history than from those who lived it. A special presentation will also be made to a descendant of Ensign William T. Bellmire, a U.S. Navy pilot who died in Florida in 1944 during his training. Ensign Bellmire

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A8 Wednesday, October 28, 2015

BUSINESS

Delta County Independent

Try the Backyard ‘twist’ for lunch or breakfast BY PAT SUNDERLAND Managing Editor

Photo submitted

Volunteer recognition

The Interpretive Association of Western Colorado recognized Fort Uncompahgre volunteers at its ﬁrst annual volunteer appreciation luncheon. 2015 volunteers attending the event were Bobby Jimenez, Patrick Spark, Jim Brydon, Nancy and Bob Lamm, Mike and Gaylee Chastain, Bill Yett, John Thompson, Mitch McIntosh, The Myers Clan, Sue, Lee and family, Ken Reyher, Jennah Schrock, Danny and Patty Barela, Mary Haining. Not shown are Lucille Olivas, Donald Olivas, Lanette and Pacalina Earley, Ron Haining, Rita Hoback and Tim Gallegos. A traditional Dutch oven dinner of meat loaf with all the trimmings and dessert was prepared by Joyce and Glen Conger. Each volunteer received a certiﬁcate and a traditional “coup” feather from Chris Miller, executive director, the Interpretive Association of Western Colorado, in appreciation of their volunteer services and contribution to the fort. Volunteers at the fort provided 1,282 volunteer hours. Plans for Christmas at the fort are in the works. Plan to stop by and see Santa Friday Dec. 4, at 7 p.m., after the Parade of Lights. For more information on how you can volunteer at the fort please call 874-8349 or 874-6695.

Nick Pasquariello has worked in restaurants from Telluride to Montrose to Denver, so when he decided to go into business for himself, he knew exactly what he was looking for — a small-town location with a downhome atmosphere where he could build his customer base by offering consistently good food and service week after week. He opened Backyard Café in Delta’s Columbine Mall, at 326 Main Street. Last winter, he operated Backyard BBQ from a vending cart on the ski slopes at Telluride. The restaurant expands on that premise, offering breakfast and lunch five days a week, Monday-Friday. Barbecue brisket sandwiches, smoked chicken sandwiches, chicken salad and more are served with freshcut fries. “It may take an

Connect for Health assistance site opens Volunteers of America announces the opening of its new nonprofit assistance site in downtown Delta for Connect for Health Colorado. The office is located in Suite 103 of the Brown Building at 550 Palmer Street. Open enrollment and renewals start Nov. 1 and will continue until Jan. 31, 2016. Marie Guillen is a bilingual certified health

GW King Ofﬁce (970) 874-9300 Cell (970) 260-8781

• Focusing on retirement plan rollovers ( 401K, 403B, proﬁt sharing, etc.) • Annuities • Life Insurance • Long Term Care Insurance • Stocks* • Bonds* • Mutual Funds*

Like us. DELTA COUNTY

INDEPENDENT

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www.deltacountyindependent.com

extra couple of minutes for your food to come out, because the french fries and hash browns are cut and cooked to order,” Pacquariello said. Breakfast favorites include a Backyard eggs benedict, which is served on a biscuit rather than an English muffin, and made with brisket instead of ham. It’s topped with two fried eggs and covered with the traditional Hollandaise sauce. The biscuits and gravy feature huge cat’s head-style biscuits covered with sausage gravy made fresh every morning. To “switch things up,” Nick offers a daily special like grilled peanut butter and jelly or a breakfast entree. “I put my own twist on everything,” said Pasquariello, who has been cooking since he was 16 years old. He enrolled in the hospitality-restaurant management program offered at Olathe High School, then pursued a degree in culinary arts from Johnson & Wales in Denver. He’s cooked just about everything, from diner-

coverage guide and will be in the office MondayThursday to assist Delta County residents in finding the best insurance to fit their needs and their budget. Connect for Health Colorado is the only place to apply for financial assistance to help reduce the cost of health insurance. For more information, or to make an appointment for open enrollment, call 970-252-0660. Health coverage guides are available to answer questions and provide assistance to those who are looking to enroll for 2016.

style entrees to five-star plates. Most recently, he oversaw a dietary department conversion at San Juan Living Center in Montrose. “We went from institutional food to made-to-order meals,” he said. He also co-owned The River’s End Bar * Grill in Ridgway with his mother, Judy Snelling, but when the recession hit, they decided not to reopen after a seasonal closure. At Backyard Café, Nick is the only cook, but his wife Samantha bakes muffins, banana bread, brownies and more. Gluten-free options are available, both in the baked goods and the made-toorder items from the kitchen. A good friend, Adam Reardon, handles customer service. Backyard Café is open from 7 to 2. Call ahead to place your order, at 3993437, or just swing by Columbine Mall where you’ll find plenty of seating and additional parking in the back. “Come give us a try,” Nick said. “I’ll bet you will be back for more.”

Nick Pasquariello

Know Your Neighbor

U.S. Auto Glass offers quality work, great service at new Delta location

Residential & Commercial Interiors & Exteriors New Construction Custom Matches Remodels Entry Doors We use all SWP Garage Floors Products Log Home Protection Stains, Polys & Epoxys Licensed & Insured

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U.S. Auto Glass has expanded to Delta with the opening of a shop at 151 W. 2nd Street. The family-operated business started in Grand Junction in 2007. Owner Urban Sisneros brings over 24 years of experience and four certifications in auto glass to Delta. He’s looking forward to expanding his customer base while providing a much-needed service to the Delta area. “We specialize in auto glass,” Urban said. “We have fair pricing, free pickup and delivery and the best price on rock chip repairs you’ll find — just $17.85. U.S. Auto Glass removes and installs glass for paint and body shops, cuts mirrors and replaces window regulators. Only the highest quality glass is used, and workmanship is covered by a lifetime warranty. “We can repair and replace flat glass in classic cars and help you with any trim on your classic car project,” Urban added. Heavy equipment is not a problem, and U.S. Glass accepts all types of insurance. “Save time by letting us pick up your vehicle, replace the glass, and return the vehicle to you.” U.S. Auto Glass is open MondayFriday from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. and Saturdays by appointment. Karissa has served as office manager since

2008. Kaleb, the business’s youngest “employee,” has been around the shop since he was 4 months old. He is now 4 and has a preschool degree. “He will be a great asset to our company,” Urban said. “We also have two expert installers, Kelson and Dom.” If you’re looking for the most affordable and experienced glass

U.S. Auto Glass is owned by Urban Sisneros, pictured with Dom, Karissa, Kaleb and Kelson.

at Crossroads Friday, October 30 5:00-7:00 p.m.

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repair and replacement professionals in the area, you don’t need to look any further than U.S. Glass. Learn more at www.USGlassGJ.com or call 3993591. “Our motto is ‘Making friends, not customers.’ We will go out of our way to help anyone if we can,” Urban said.

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Hot dogs and cookies for all the little “goblins” who want to show off their costumes.

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NORTH FORK October 28, 2015

TIMES

Section

www.deltacountyindependent.com

Ramey is leaving citizens’ group BY TAMIE MECK Staff Writer

Jim Ramey announced last week that he is stepping down after three and a half years as executive director of Citizens for a Healthy Community. Ramey is heading to The Wilderness Society’s Denver office to work on energy policy after being recommended for the job. “I didn’t even apply,” said Ramey, but the timing was right, as he and his wife had been discussing making a change. Ramey said his time at CHC helped “immensely” in preparing for his new journey. His background in energy policy was a good fit of the non-profit, formed in 2009 to help protect the Delta County region from irresponsible oil and gas development. He arrived in early 2012 as its first full-time director, and in the midst of the proposed gas lease sale by the Bureau of Land Management of 22 parcels on 30,000 acres in the

North Fork area. Under his leadership, CHC partnered with other organizations and spurred grassroots efforts that resulted in the withdrawal of all 22 parcels from possible sale after the BLM received roughly 3,000 public comments. “Things were crazy. That’s an understatement probably,” said Ramey. He said he didn’t really have a vision or a plan coming in. “It was more of a clean slate and looking at how to progress.” That year, CHC was named co-Nonprofit Organization of the Year by the Paonia Chamber of Commerce In 2013, CHC, with help from the Western Environmental Law Center, won a federal Freedom of Information Act lawsuit that reversed the BLM’s policy of not publishing the identities of entities nominated for minerals leasing on public lands after CHC was denied access to the names of the corporations RAMEY TO B3

A season of contrasts

Photo by Tamie Meck

The ﬁrst snowfall of the year dusted Mount Lamborn, while in the valley the trees continue their brilliant display of autumn colors, resisting the inevitable shades of brown soon to come.

GOCO grant gets kids outdoors BY TAMIE MECK Staff Writer

Kids in Delta County and Olathe could be spending more educational and recreational time outdoors in the future, thanks to a planning grant awarded last week by Great Outdoors Colorado. GOCO’s Inspire Initiative, described as “a five-year strategy aimed at inspiring Coloradans, particularly kids, to appreciate, enjoy and take care of our great outdoors,” is providing $25 million in grants aimed at getting kids “off the couch and out the door from the backyard to the backcountry.” A second-tier planning grant of $75,000 awarded to the Delta County School District Foundation will allow a coalition called The Nature Connection to plan over the next 18 months on how to get the underserved youth outdoors, “whether it is through cross country skiing on Grand Mesa, hiking in the Dominguez-Escalante or Gunnison Gorge National Conservation areas, enriching our schoolyard habitats to include outdoor classrooms,” said Anita Evans, coordinator for the grant and the science and environmental liaison for the Delta County School District Foundation. “This is a huge gift.” Of the 34 applicants, the DCSDF was among 13 in the state, and four on the Western Slope, to receive second-tier funding. Six pilot communities, including Lake County (Leadville) will receive up to $100,000 in first-tier funding for creation and expansion parks, improvement of access to existing parks and trails, and to bolster youth programs. GOCO states that today’s kids spend 50 percent less time outdoors than their parents did when they were kids. Evans noted that out

of 70 kids from Cedaredge who visited Escalante Canyon last year, only three had been there before. The grant seeks to bring communities together to reverse that trend, said Evans. The first nine months of the 18-month grant will go toward website development for The Nature Connection and implementation of an online survey and gathering of ideas from as many local youth as possible. “We will be seeking feedback from all of the communities,” said Evans. There will also be an art contest for students to create a logo for The Nature Connection. Survey results will guide the coalition through creation of a plan during the second half of the funding cycle. At the end of the 18 months the foundation can apply for between $1 million to $5 million in GOCO funding to implement its plan. The idea is to make the program sustainable for as many years as possible, said Evans. The Delta County School District has designated the former Montessori School building on Bulldog Street in Hotchkiss for the outdoor education center. In an effort to make access to the outdoors more affordable, creation of the gear library, which Evans said is a big component of the grant, will provide educators with access to outdoor equipment such as backpacks, and seeks to create a partnership program to make equipment rental more affordable. An example is the Skis for Kids program, for which Evans is the coordinator, that provides rental of cross country ski equipment for $2 per student. Coalition members including the Delta County Board of County Commissioners, Delta County School District, Bureau of Land Management and Colorado Canyons Asso-

Photo by Tamie Meck

Delta County fourth grade students get a lesson in geology at Lost Lake from Jessica Lopez Pearce with the U.S. Forest Service. A Great Outdoors Colorado planning grant awarded last week to the Delta County School District Foundation is aimed at getting students to spend more time outdoors.

ciation contributed matching cash and in-kind donations for the grant. Other coalition members include the Delta County municipalities and Town of Olathe, the U.S. Forest Service, Solar Energy

International, the Interpretive Association of Western Colorado, Western Slope Conservation Center, Delta County Economic Development, Delta Family Center, Friends of Ridgway State Park, the

Delta County and North Fork recreation districts, and Colorado Parks and Wildlife. Other local groups interested in contributing to the coalition can contact Anita Evans at asevans54@gmail.com.

Photo by Tamie Meck

Jacob Leon with the Paonia Public Works department works with director Travis Loberg to excavate a section of Main Avenue Monday in an effort to repair a break in the line. The town has experienced about 80 breaks in its system this year. While most breaks are quickly repaired, water users are urged to store drinking water in the event of a prolonged loss of service.

Paonia water users urged to prepare for water main breaks BY TAMIE MECK Staff Writer

The Town of Paonia is urging town water users to collect potable water after several water main breaks occurred over the weekend, resulting in brief disruptions in service. The town’s infrastructure has experienced at least 80 breaks this year, according to town manager Jane Berry. Six of those breaks have occurred within town limits, including one on Monday in the 200 block of Main Avenue. While no one has gone more than a few hours without water, this is a case of water being more precious than gold, said Berry. The town has issued several “Code Red” warnings on its website and Facebook page in recent weeks due to breaks, and the public works crew has worked almost around the clock in an effort to keep up with the problem. The last weekend was especially stressful, said Berry. The majority of breaks are occurring in the Roeber, Foothills, Minerich and Lamborn Mesa road areas. Those breaks have largely affected out-of-town and private water company customers. An Oct. 21 break on Lamborn Mesa Road prompted a Code Red warning by the town, urging Lamborn Mesa customers to collect water in the event of an

extended water loss. Several factors are contributing to the breaks, said Berry. The entire system is suffering from years of benign neglect and the town has not had the money to reinvested in infrastructure. A couple of the main lines are upwards of 70-80 years old and made of ductile iron that has corroded over the decades. It’s brittle, and when welded, the welds don’t hold up. “Think cast iron,” said Berry. Projects related to the $6 million filtration system upgrades mandated by the state are still underway, and problems with the 1 milliongallon Lower Lamborn Mesa (Clock) Treatment Plant have kept it out of service since last spring. In the meantime,

the entire delivery system is relying on the 2 million-gallon Upper Lamborn Mesa plant. While repairs at the Clock plant are going well, it isn’t expected to be back online until December. That has placed added pressure on the system, said Berry. Every time a break occurs the water is turned off to allow for repairs. When the system is recharged, the pressure can cause more breaks. While an entire system upgrade would run into the millions of dollars and isn’t feasible at this time, the town is considering numerous major water main replacement projects in 2016 and is looking to loop some of the existing deadend sections to relieve pressure on those lines to maintain

LEDs amount to big savings for Crawford BY TAMIE MECK Staff Writer

The Town of Crawford is saving more than $300 per month to light its streets after Delta-Montrose Electric Association replaced existing high-pressure and mercury vapor bulbs with LED lights throughout the town last year. “That’s insane,” said town

clerk Toby Stephenson. “And the lights are much nicer now, they’re all the same color.” A year ago the September cost to light the streets was $523; last month the town paid $200 to DMEA. Crawford was the first town in Delta County to sign up for the energy efficiency program, which touted a 50 percent savings.

B2 Wednesday, October 28, 2015

NORTH FORK TIMES

Delta County Independent

Outdoors, art, education all at River Park BY TAMIE MECK Staff Writer

Visiting Paonia River Park it’s difficult to imagine it was once an industrious in-stream gravel mine. From the arch entryway and river overlook to a recently improved section of walking path, the park is trail system, outdoor class-

room, sanctuary and art gallery all rolled into one. With an estimated 95 percent of the North Fork of the Gunnison’s riverfront land privately owned, it also offers rare public access for fishing, raft and kayak launching, picnicking and swimming, although the water

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runs at about 52 degrees these days. The roughly 24-acre park has, from its beginnings in the 1990s, provided a first-rate example of community collaboration and dedication. More than a dozen stakeholders were involved in its planning, many continue to be involved in its improvements and use today, and many more have joined along the way. “This park is an amazing resource,” says Ralph D’Alessandro, a member of the Paonia River Park Committee and a Delta Conservation District board member. A leader in efforts to rid the North Fork’s riverfront of invasive vegetation, he points to a sage-green Russian olive that has to go. Education is a major component of the park’s master plan, said D’Alessandro. Each year Delta County students visit the outdoor classroom to learn about energy, wildlife, local history and more during Conservation Days. Last April more than 300 fourth-grade students and several organizations and governmental entities participated in the grantfunded event. “The River Park really is a valuable community asset, especially since there is so little access to the North Fork,” said WSCC river park coordinator Julia Bowman. “We are really proud of what we have been able to create for Paonia and Delta County residents and visitors alike.” In all, the WSCC has invested about $850,000, including $500,000 in grants, into restoration and development of the park, according to Bowman, an AmeriCorps VISTA member who arrived in April to spend a year at WSCC. Bowman is the sixth VISTA member to work at WSCC. AmeriCorps VISTA volunteers are a big part of the park’s history, including the creation of the master plan. “That basic plan is what we’ve been working from since then,” said Bowman. WSCC has applied for and received grants the last four years, said D’Alessandro. This past year grant-funded trail projects were completed, including reconstruction and widening of a 334foot section of trail. Labor

was done by a dozen volunteers with the Youth Conservation Corps. While 334 feet of trail may not seem like much, it is significant to the park’s overall purpose, said D’Alessandro. The park committee plans to build an additional 2,000 feet of trail which will connect to existing and planned trails, including a section just downstream that is part of the master plan for the Paonia High School Flight of the Eagle Project. Negotiations are also in the works for an easement to allow for widening of an existing trail within the park. Most recently, WSCC was awarded grants from the Gates Family Foundation and the Colorado Parks and Wildlife’s Fishing is Fun program for installation of a handicap access ramp. Construction is being overseen by Hotchkiss metal artist Ira Houseweart. Metal sculptures by Houseweart and Jim Hardin are also represented in the arch entryway and overlook platform. When complete, the more than 100-foot-long ramp’s railings will look like tree branches, with animals, insects and other sculptures placed throughout. Houseweart said most of the sculpture work is already done. “We’re doing just the physical work now,” he said of the huge framework that includes a large viewing platform.

BY TAMIE MECK Staff Writer

For more than five decades, Don Foster has helped keep the wheel of the North Fork Rotary Club turning. He has shaken countless hands, attended more than 2,500 meetings both here and abroad, helped raise money for scholarships, non-profits and other notable causes, dropped many a dollar in the donations can and sung a lot of silly songs. Foster is recognized as one of the longest-serving members in the club’s 93year history. Citing a loss of hearing which makes communication difficult, Foster sent a letter in late September announc-

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and area’s history, riparian habitats and geology is already in place. The park committee is seeking funding to replace the bridge crossing Minnesota Creek with one that is handicap accessible, which could happen in 2017 or 2018. There are a lot of challenges to that, said D’Alessandro. In addition, structures remaining from the gravel mining operation are slated to be moved, which will open up the views of the West Elks to the east. The entire park is being created by people working together. Said D’Alessandro, “This is what’s come from nothing.”

Photo by Tamie Meck

Metal artist Ira Houseweart works on the handicap access ramp at Paonia River Park. Apprentices Drew Burch and Adam Sheldon are also working on the project, one of several underway, in planning stages or recently completed at the park.

Foster bids Rotary adieu after 56 years

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The project represents hundreds of hours of work, said Houseweart. The project is expected to be completed in about a month. The ramp exemplifies WSCC’s mission, said D’Alessandro. “It’s artistic and functional, and makes the park accessible to everyone.” Everything within the park, including the concrete pathway leading into the park, was created by locals and for sustainability and low maintenance, said D’Alessandro. WSCC also received a $45,000 GOCO grant this summer for creation of interpretive signage. Educational signage about the park’s creation

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ing his resignation, “with a lot of regret and memories. Rotary has been a big part of my life for the last 56 years. I am proud to have been a part of it.” Foster joined Rotary in 1959. “Way back then,” wrote Foster in an email, “there were a couple of dedicated Rotarians, Merle Dale and Shorty Hunteen, who were the official truant officers for the club,” and were good at rounding up suitable prospects for membership, including Foster. Rotary urges 100 percent attendance from its members, and upon missing a meeting, he and Hobart Knight were taken for a ride to Montrose by Dale and Hunteen to make up for the missed meeting. “For many years back then our club held the distinction of being No. 1 in the district for attendance, bless their souls.” Foster served as president 1964-1965, and was editor of the weekly bulletin for 23 years, handing off the honors recently to Sarah Bishop. “Why I haven’t been treasurer I’ll never know,” said Foster, a retired banker. Four times he was recognized as a Paul Harris Fellow for contributing $1,000 or more in a calendar year to The Rotary Foundation. “I just think Rotary International is tops worldwide,” wrote Foster. He praised its many philanthropic projects and programs, including the Global Polio Eradication Initiative, which began in 1988 and partnered with governmental and private organizations to end the debilitating disease. Foster has also seen “great change” in his 56 years with Rotary, the greatest being the admission of women into the club. While women were first considered for membership in 1950, according to Rotary.org, they weren’t officially allowed in worldwide until 1989. Prior to that, the local club had an active “Rotaryanns” organization. The club benefited greatly by their admission, said Foster, “not because the men were lazy, but those women just had so much enthusiasm and ambition … and imagination.” Since then, five women have served as club presi-

dent, including Peggy Herndon (1994-95), Peggy Szveteca (2003-04), Jackie Parks (2010-11), Bishop (2006-07), and current president Marsha Grant. An avid traveler, Foster attended meetings and collected banners from a dozen countries, including Japan, the Netherlands and Great Britain. When asked of his favorite memories, he replied, “Gosh, there are a hundred favorite memories of Rotary.” But the best were when his family hosted two high school students through the Rotary Youth Exchanges program. One of those students, Rear Admiral Miguel Jose Rodriguez, who retired with honors from the Philippine military, stayed with the Fosters in 1972. In July, Rodriguez, who went on to become a long-standing Rotarian, returned to Paonia with his family to visit the Fosters and attend a meeting. He pointed to Rotary and his time in Paonia for instilling in him a sense of service. Foster is considered the second-longest sustaining club member. The longest-serving member, L.E. “Doc” Bradshaw, joined in 1936 and resigned in 2007. He died at the age of 103. While he’ll turn 94 soon, Foster is not the oldest current member. At 97, Felix Belmont joined in 2003. He is currently club secretary, and the one who dug up this historical information. “I have been trying to catch up with Felix ever since he joined up, but I can’t get the job done,” said Foster. “I have never seen a guy (other than Doc Bradshaw) that kept so active.” Foster said he is proud to have been a part of Rotary, and of the local club, which now boasts about 40 members and recently changed its name from The Rotary Club of Paonia to Rotary Club of the North Fork Valley in order to be more inclusive. He hopes to have his hearing restored enough to be able to attend meetings again in the future. In the meantime, wrote Foster to his fellow Rotarians, “I’ll remember all of you, and keep cheering for you.”

NORTH FORK TIMES

Delta County Independent

Wednesday, October 28, 2015

Hotchkiss volleyball team digs deep to support cancer center BY TAMIE MECK Staff Writer

For Hotchkiss senior Gratia Fisher, singing The Star-Spangled Banner ahead of Saturday’s varsity volleyball game against Meeker was a little more challenging than most of her past performances. Not only was it the final game of

the regular volleyball season, and possibly her final home game as a volleyball player, Fisher and her teammates had just distributed 50 light pink long-stemmed roses to people in the stands whose lives have been affected by cancer as part of the team’s Dig Deep, Dig Pink volleyball breast

Photo by Tamie Meck

Carson Collins (13) and other members of the Hotchkiss volleyball team present those whose lives have been affected by cancer with a pink rose Saturday during the Dig Deep, Dig Pink volleyball fundraiser for breast cancer awareness. The event raised $1,005 for the Grand Mesa Oncology Center in Delta.

cancer benefit. “I felt my heart beating faster than normal,” said Fisher, a senior at HHS. When people in the stands were asked to raise their hand if they or their families had been affected by cancer, dozens of hands went up, and 50 roses were handed out. “I was surprised. I didn’t know it affected so many people in the community.” As she sang the national anthem, “I was hoping they felt the words like I usually do.” Volleyball teams across the state are encouraged by the Colorado High School Activities Association to hold a fundraiser during October in honor of Breast Cancer Awareness Month. Volleyball moms Amy Collins, Teresa Wrich, Ginger Fisher, Toni Deluzio and others organized the event. The intent was to honor survivors of breast cancer, those fighting cancer, and those who have lost loved ones to cancer, said Collins. Proceeds from the event, including donations and money taken for a bake sale and concession stand, came to $1,005, which the team voted to donate to Delta County Memorial Hospital’s Grand Mesa Oncol-

ogy Center in Delta, said Wrich. Drawings for prizes were held during timeouts and between games, and those purchasing tickets were given opportunities to serve volleyballs. The opposite side of the court was dotted with water bottles and other pink prizes. Anyone hitting a prize got to keep it. Prize donations came from Arch CO Customs, Karen Lacey and the Town Crier. The Hotchkiss Flower Shop and Paonia Flower Shop helped with the roses. Tshirts, custom made for the event by 1440 Image Apparel in Delta, sold out before the first volleyball was served. The team found time between practices and school to make and distribute posters. Organizers gave a huge shout-out to the Meeker players, parents and coaches. “On a Saturday afternoon, and with a visiting team from so far away, this was an epic outcome,” said Collins. “It really was an amazing afternoon.” Collins and Wrich, who both have freshmen players on the team, said they plan to grow the event a little more each year in the coming years.

National Forest. The proposed Thompson Divide lease swap that would exchange leases in the Roaring Fork Valley area for leases in Delta, Gunnison, Mesa and Rio Blanco counties would require federal legislation, which hasn’t yet been introduced, and congressional approval. “So the idea is not dead,” said Ramey, “but it’s not really on the front burner anymore.” Ramey, who commutes

from Montrose, said he will miss his friends, and all of the people, the most. “Wonderful memories over the last few years from the North Fork.” He’s grateful, as a Midwesterner, to be staying in Colorado and near the mountains and access to skiing, hiking and backpacking. “I will say I am really proud of the things that I was able to contribute, the accomplishments over the past few years,” said Ramey.

Photo submitted

Students of the Month

Members of Hotchkiss Elks Lodge #1807 recognized the Paonia High School Students of the Month during dinner at their September meeting. Pictured are Taylor Walters, exalted ruler Bob Kapus and Taylor Carsten.

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Ramey FROM PAGE B1 nominated for the North Fork area leases. The organization also led efforts to create and submit to the BLM the North Fork Alternative Plan that focuses on managing oil and gas development in local watersheds. Last February, CHC united the community again to battle a proposal for 146 gas wells and associated development on more than 19,000 acres of federal and private lands northeast of Paonia in the BLM Bull Mountain Unit. The first public meeting on the proposal drew about 250 citizens, with 28 individuals participating in the public comment segment. “Everyone did a great job articulating their points,” said Ramey.

Jim Ramey A final EIS and decision by the BLM are pending. Ramey said he lost a lot of sleep over the proposal, and “gained a few gray hairs, but well worth it. It’s important. It’s really gratifying work.” Ramey rattles off a long list of chemicals and compounds associated with the oil and gas industry and says he doesn’t think hydraulic fracturing, or fracking, can ever be done without risk to the environment, wildlife and humans. He is proud to have worked with the late Theo Colborn and staff at The Endocrine Exchange on air quality assessment studies related to natural gas operations. He worked on fundraising, coordinated volunteers and helped with technical aspects of the project including program design and data interpretation. The results of those studies were presented by TEDX at a forum hosted by CHC in April, said Ramey. A final report, which he continues to work on, is due in the near future. Ramey said it’s good to know that the organization has “effectively stopped new leasing over the last few years. It’s not the end game, but it’s a

huge positive thing.” Ramey called his job change “an exciting new opportunity.” He describes TWS as doing “great work. They have an amazing organizational culture, they have fantastic people. They take a realistic, practical approach to these difficult issues, like energy.” TWS recognizes that drilling isn’t going to stop tomorrow, and works “to make sure that it doesn’t happen in irresponsible places, and where it does happen it happens in more of a responsible way as possible.” Ramey gave CHC a month’s notice and will stay until mid-November to help with the transition to new leadership. The board of directors is now tasked with finding a suitable replacement. “That’s a tall order,” said board chair Ellie Goldstein. “Jim has so many skills and he’s a bank of information. If he can’t answer every question that the board or members throw at him, he’ll get the answer within 24 hours.” “I do think it’s an opportunity to find the right person to help CHC through the next steps and in the years to come,” said Ramey, who urges the board to take a “don’t worry” view of the task and the future of the organization. “It’s an amazing community, it’s a great organization, it’s a fantastic opportunity for someone to come and … dive in face first.” Among the challenges CHC continues to face are the more than 80,000 acres of existing leases on public and private lands now at various stages of the review process and representing hundreds of new gas wells. “Those are tough to take on,” said Ramey. Not much can be done about leases on private lands. “Once the leases are issued it’s really difficult to stop it entirely.” But leases on public lands offer different opportunities. “The agencies do read the comments, and sometimes they do listen,” said Ramey. Another concern is the new draft oil and gas rules recently released by the Colorado Oil and Gas Conservation Commission (see Oct. 14 DCI story “Draft oil/gas rules frustrate citizen groups”) and a federal proposal for 25 new gas wells west of the Bull Mountain Unit, including 16 wells on public lands in the Gunnison

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B4 Wednesday, October 28, 2015

NORTH FORK TIMES

Delta County Independent

North F ork Flyers present house concert Mike Gwinn and The North Fork Flyers, western Colorado’s premier jazz, pop quartet featuring two great horn players, will bring their show, “Tales from the Road,” to the Wisehart Springs Inn on Saturday, Nov. 14. The band is comprised of John White, alto sax and flute; Tony Peters, trombone (both also play bass); Justin Hess, drums; and Mike Gwinn, guitar and vocals. Wisehart Springs Inn, a bed and breakfast with

expansive views of Mt. Lamborn, is well-suited for an intimate (35-50 guests) “house” concert, a new and popular alternative to clubs, bars and concert halls. Don’t miss this opportunity to hear some stellar jazz, blues and pop. The show starts at 7 p.m. and will cost $20 at the door. Please bring a bottle of wine or your favorite libation. For more information, call 773-294-1146 or 5273424.

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Protecting kids and their families

Photo submitted

BELA Preschool at HK-8 had a great day with State Trooper Pat out of the Montrose office. The first grade classes were also able to join in as the students heard about seat belt safety and 911, and experienced firsthand the car’s lights and sirens. Pictured in the front row above are the morning preschoolers (not in order) Aspen Lloyd, Clay Hollembeak, Dal Adam, Finley Ihnot, Ian Morris, Kanon Andregg, Logan Lovelace, Manuel Espinoza, Mariah Pipher, Milly Naylor, Nolan Long, Rachel Smith, Valentin Elizalde, Ellie Fink and Yishai Fink. Mrs. Flores’ class is in the back row: Lucy Alvarado, Kyler Clark, Kacee Daguerre, David Duncan, Izzy Harrison, Juliana Houghton, Sophia Jacquez, Payson Miller, Jessica Norris, Dalton Pipher, Colter Scriver, Madison Shiflet, Kiera Stroh and Alex Zerr. In the front row below are the afternoon preschoolers (not in order) Addy Harrison, Alysia Beyette, Bentley Farmer, Christopher Glimpse, Dani Beall, Emily Ludwig, Jynae Scott, Katrina Jacquez, Macy Mitchell, McKenna Peebles, Nathan Strong, Parker Kenniger and Quinn Price. Mrs. Smith’s class is in the back row: Kelty Andregg, Dominic Barnes, Ellie Emmons, Caleb Garcia, Ben Gomez, Danna Govea, Oliver Handy, Alyssa Lovelace, Cayden McLeod, Charlie Miller, Lauren Miller, Wyatt Thompson, Colby Todd and Tayen Ware.

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Halloween happenings BY TAMIE MECK Staff Writer

Here is some information on a few of the Halloween happenings throughout the North Fork area: Reggae Fundraiser at The Creamery The legendary harmony trio The Meditations will perform Halloween night at The Creamery in Hotchkiss. The Meditations hail from Kingston, Jamaica, and recorded their first hit single in 1974. The group sealed its place among the legends of reggae music with the release of its first two albums, “Message from The Meditations,” and “Wake up.” The Meditations’ vocals are featured on cuts by Bob Marley. Bob Pennetta has spent time in Jamaica and has a connection with the promoter from Boulder who brought the Jamaican harmony trio, the Mighty Diamonds, and the legendary group The Melodians to the Paradise Theatre earlier this year. Pennetta wanted to put on a fundraiser on Halloween for KVNF and Citizens for a Healthy Community and called the promoter. Crested Butte was also looking for a reggae band. “The guy did some juggling,” and booked them in Crested Butte this Thursday and in Hotchkiss Saturday. The opening act will also be “really something special,” said Pennetta. A band dubbed the International Jam Band features two Flamenco guitar players from Spain and three local musicians. Not only will there be great music, catering will feature some traditional foods of Jamaica, and beer and wine are available. Concert-goers who arrive in costume are eligible for some pretty nice prizes, which will be awarded throughout the night. The event takes place in the former art gallery. The entire place, from the entry to the balcony, will be decorated for Halloween thanks to Pam Cocker, who generously offered her amazing haunted house props and decorations. “Not only will there be great music, but a mind-blowing environment,” said Pennetta. Tickets are $25 and

available at Western Colorado Realty and Hardins in Hotchkiss, Lizzy’s Market and Hightower Café in Paonia, and at the door. All proceeds benefit Citizens for a Healthy Community and KVNF. Hotchkiss Home Plate Haunted House Trick-or-treaters can visit the Home Plate Baseball Haunted House from 7:30-10 p.m. Friday and Saturday, Oct. 30 and 31, at 476 Willow Drive. While visiting, children can enjoy games and prizes. “Get spooked and make a donation to Hotchkiss Home Plate Baseball.” Fifth Annual Harvest Fest for All Ages The Paonia Christian Fellowship, 235 Box Elder Avenue, will host the fifth annual Harvest Fest Halloween celebration from 5-9 p.m. Halloween night. North Fork area children of all ages are invited to enjoy a safe, fun Halloween event. The Renaissancethemed event features a host of activities which even small children can enjoy, as well as a food booth featuring hot dogs, soup and more. This event draws a big crowd. Zombie Prom Night at Blue Sage Zombie Prom is the theme for this year’s annual Halloween party at the Blue Sage Center for the Arts.

KVNF DJ Lulu returns to spin some great dance tunes, and DJ SarahTonin will play all the big Halloween hits. Votes for king and queen can be made on Facebook, with the prom court consisting of the top three males and females. This is a family-friendly event, and admission is $5. Costumes and prom attire are not required but are highly recommended, said Blue Sage executive director Annette Pretorius. Anyone not wearing one or the other will be led to the Zombification Station to be zombified. Zombie Run Halloween isn’t Halloween without zombies. Get an early start on the holiday at the third annual Zombie Run 5k. The race begins and ends at St. Margaret Mary Church, but beware of zombies along the way wanting to eat your brains (grab flags from a belt, which is optional). Registration is $10 for student zombies, and $15 for adults. Costumes are encouraged, and optional zombie face painting begins at 9 a.m. Since many families in the area are struggling to put food on the table, which is very scary, all proceeds will benefit Helping Hands, a partnership program with the Hotchkiss K-8 School and Food Bank of the Rockies

to provide food baskets for needy families during the holidays. K-8 principal Carrie Yantzer said the program, which started in 2011, went away for a period of time and recently received a startup grant from the Cocker Kids Foundation to help it get going again. The first year 18 families received food boxes, and in 2014 the number grew to 42, said Yantzer. Depending on donations, boxes also can include gift cards and Christmas gifts. This year, thanks to generous donations, packages will include elk and beef. Registration forms are available by emailing hotchkisszombierun@ gmail.com, on the Facebook Hotchkiss K-8 page, or by calling 8723325. Hotchkiss FFA Hosts Halloween Fun On Saturday, Oct. 31, the Hotchkiss FFA chapter is throwing a Halloween party. This night will include games, candy, a haunted house and many more fun activities for children 12 and under. Parents are invited, too. Be sure to come dressed up and be prepared to have a Halloween you’ll never forget! The party will take place at Heritage Hall, 403 E. Bridge Street, Hotchkiss, from 4 to 6 p.m. Admission is free.

Photo by Scott Kellogg

Will you walk into this spider’s parlor? Ghosts and goblins will be the least of your worries if you trick-or-treat at the Kelloggs’ home at 218 Minnesota Avenue in Paonia this Halloween. Candy is included, but only if you are brave enough to make it to the front door!

OBITUARIES

Delta County Independent

View the Internet obitWyo.; her mother, Debbie Guyer of Paonia; two sis- uary and sign the online ters, Brenda Graham of guest registry at taylor Dotsero and Tracy Ham- funeralservice.com. mond of Chatsworth, Ga.; and three grandchildren. Taylor Funeral Service and Crematory is handling the arrangements. View the Internet obituary and sign the online guest registry at taylor funeralservice.com.

June Mosteller

Delta resident Mary “June” Mosteller died Monday, Oct. 19, 2015, at Horizons Care Center. She was 91. A celebration of life will be held at Sunset Memorial Gardens in Greeley at a later date. Mrs. Mosteller was born in Chillicothe, Mo., June 18, 1924, to Birdie (Scott) and David Israel. She grew up in Chillicothe. She married Sherman “Ted” Mosteller in 1941. They moved to Kansas in 1946 to raise their family, then to Colorado in 1956. They lived in the Greeley area for 40 years. After her husband’s death, Mrs. Mosteller provided a state-licensed day care facility for children in her home in Greeley and managed the family car wash/laundromat and rental homes in Kersey. She enjoyed her large family, flowers, gardening and embroidery. She is survived by two daughters, Wanda Brunemeier of Cory and Sherry Polcyn of Austin; two sons, Richard “Pete” Mosteller of Austin and Larry Mosteller of Joelton, Tenn.; 10 grandchildren; 19 great-grandchildren; and two greatgreat-grandchildren. Mrs. Mosteller was preceded in death by her husband, Ted; and two children, Alan “Moss” Mosteller and Theadora “Teddie” Mader.

Hollie Todd

Hollie Todd died Monday, Oct. 26, 2015, at her home in Crawford. She was 46. A celebration of life will be held at 10 a.m., Saturday, Oct. 31, at Boardwalk Restaurant in Crawford. Mrs. Todd is survived by two sons, Stephen Mann and Robbert Todd of Crawford; her daughter, Tiffany Toothaker of Hotchkiss; her father, Ray Todd of Lander,

Sky Lee Reed

Norma Moore

Delta resident Norma Moore died Friday, Oct. 23, 2015, at Willow Tree Care Center in Delta. She was 93. A memorial service will be held at 10:30 a.m., Friday, Oct. 30, at Garnet Mesa Baptist Church in Delta. Norma Lucille Stone was born in McCook, Neb., June 11, 1922, to Harry and Myrtle (Bales) Stone. She spent her childhood in McCook and graduated from McCook High School. On Dec. 25, 1943, she married Russell S. Moore in Fort Morgan. They moved from Fort Morgan to Delta in 1996. Mrs. Moore enjoyed sewing, gardening and fishing. She was a member of Garnet Mesa Baptist Church in Delta. She is survived by two daughters, Sharon Espeseth and Linda Endsley, both of Delta; seven grandchildren, Sherrilyn Turner, Cristy Espeseth, Bethany Espeseth, Erica Espeseth, Brenda Miles, Natalie Wertz and Lance Endsley; and nine greatgrandchildren, Larissa Turner, Lara Turner, Serena Unrien, Maya Billings, Lily Billings, Justin Wertz, Sophie Endsley, Collin Endsley and Rhye Espeseth. She was preceded in death by her husband, Russell, in February 2013. Memorial contributions may be made to Garnet Mesa Baptist Church, 863 A Street, Delta, CO 81416. Taylor Funeral Service and Crematory is handling the arrangements.

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Three-month-old Sky Lee Reed died of congenital heart and liver disease Oct. 19, 2015, at the Ronald McDonald house in Salt Lake City, Utah. He was born July 17, 2015, to James and Christy Reed. A graveside service was held Saturday, Oct. 24, at the Aragon family cemetery in Kinnear, Wyo. Sky is survived by his parents, James and Christy Reed; a sister, Julie “Juju” Reed; his grandparents, Larry Tavegia, Roger and Karen Reed and Elizabeth Reed; his great-grandparents, Dorothy Aragon and Dan and Wanda Reed; his aunts and uncles, Tanya and Kevin Martin, Lacey Tavegia, Chris Macy, Reuben Reed, Tanja and Cody Kinney, Racheal, Tamara and Timothy Reed and Rebecca Freeman. He was preceded in death by Peter Aragon, Julie Tavegia and Misty Collinsworth. Wind Dancer Funeral Home handled the arrangements.

Jim Eddins

James “Jim” Eddins died Friday, Oct. 23, 2015, at his home in Delta. He was 76. A visitation will be held at Taylor Funeral Service Chapel in Delta Thursday, Oct. 29, from 6 to 8 p.m. Funeral services will be held at 2 p.m., Friday, Oct. 30, at Taylor Funeral Service Chapel with Jenny Ray McAdams officiating. Interment will follow in Delta City Cemetery. Mr. Eddins was born in Meridian, Miss., Nov. 13, 1938, to Harrison and Thelma (Norsworthy) Eddins. He spent his childhood in Meridian and graduated from Meridian High School. After graduation, he attended East Mississippi Junior College. When he was 17 years old, he served in the National Guard. He married Ann Marie Brooker in Eutaw, Ala., Nov. 6, 1964. They lived on the Western Slope since 1972 and lived in Glenwood Springs before moving to Delta in 1993. Mr. Eddins was a Baptist. He enjoyed his fam-

Wednesday, October 28, 2015

ily, archery hunting, fishing, working in his shop, learning how to make things work, and making things out of copper and other metals. He is survived by his wife of 50 years, Ann Eddins of Delta; two daughters, Virginia (Alex) Kaseberg of San Diego, Calif., and Jennifer Eddins of Centennial; two sisters, Pat Phillips of Butler, Ala., and Linda Kater of Stedman, N.C.; and two grandchildren. He was preceded in death by a brother and five sisters. Memorial contributions may be sent to HopeWest, P.O. Box 24, Delta, CO 81416 or to Family Health West, 228, North Cherry St., Fruita, CO 81521. Taylor Funeral Service and Crematory is handling the arrangements. View the Internet obituary and sign the online guest registry at taylor funeralservice.com.

On Sept 8, 1948, she married Kelly “Fred” Calhoun in Delta. Mrs. Calhoun was a member of Delta United Methodist Church, Cowbelles and Republican Women. She enjoyed reading, the Broncos, painting, puzzles and spending time with her family and friends. She is survived by her daughter, Lindsey Beres of Delta; three grandDeAndrea daughters, Beres, Keisha Beres and Shanelle Beres, all of Delta; and one greatgranddaughter, Makenzie Beres of Delta. She was preceded in death by her son, Robert Calhoun; a brother, Gene Bond Jr.; and her husband, Fred Calhoun. Taylor Funeral Service and Crematory is handling the arrangements. View the Internet obituary and sign the online guest registry at taylor funeralservice.com.

Audrey Calhoun

Delta resident Audrey Phyllis Calhoun died Saturday, Oct. 17, 2015, at Valley Manor Care Center in Montrose. She was 88. A memorial service will be held at 11 a.m., Sunday, Nov. 8, at 511 E. 5th Street, Delta. Mrs. Calhoun was born in Olney Springs Sept. 21, 1927, to Reford “Bill” and Maxine (Montgomery) Bond. She spent her childhood in Olney Springs and graduated from Delta High School.

Rita Ann Carr June 19, 1938 ~ Oct. 21, 2015 Rita Ann Carr passed peacefully at home early Wednesday morning, Oct. 21, 2015, with her loving family at her bedside. Rita Ann (Palukaitis) Carr was born to Anthony and Cecelia Palukaitis, of Lithuanian descent, on June 19, 1938. She was the second child of six, older sister, Joan, younger brother, Anthony “Butch” and sisters, Cecelia, Margarete and Theresa. Rita grew up in North Haldon, N.J. Rita is survived by her husband, James Carr; Rita’s children from the marriage to her late husband, Olympus Ernest Haines: Doreen Lillian Haines, Michael Anthony Haines, Andrew Ernest Haines and Jeffrey Jerome Haines; four stepchildren, Michael Timothy Carr, Suzanne Ellen (Carr)

Shields, Andrew James Carr and Jonathan Douglas Carr; grandchildren, Brian West, Michelle Huppman, Daniel Olympus Haines, Elizabeth Haines, Paige Haines, Cole Bradshaw, Cassandra Haines, Matthew Haines and Jessica Haines; and eight great-grandchildren, Zoe Carr, Tessa Carr, Audrey West, Alexis West, Matthew West, Jacob West, Dayton West and Hay-

ley West. Some of Rita’s notable gifts and contributions to all were her exceptional love, empathy and compassion. And then there was the extraordinary God-given talent in the creation of fine art in mediums of oil, acrylic, watercolor, pastels and porcelain china painting, where she created beauty for the world. Her quick wit and wonderful sense of humor delivered much laughter and pleasure to all her family and friends. She loved the community of Delta where she and Jim have made their home for over 25 years. She loved her church family at the Delta Center for Spiritual Living where there was a celebration of life service in her memory Friday, Oct. 23. Paid obituary

Delta-Montrose Electric Ass’n. website redesigned DMEA PRESS RELEASE

Delta-Montrose Electric Association (DMEA) is launching a redesigned website this month. The new site focuses on user experience. It offers a clean, modern design, easy navigation, and updated content. “We know our website is an essential communication tool for our members. Our most recent member survey indicated that 62 percent of our members with Internet access use our website. It was important for us to recognize the site’s value and make sure it was functional, easy to use, and meeting the needs of our members,” said Jasen Bronec, DMEA CEO. Notable differences

include a less-cluttered look and user-friendly navigation. For example, members can quickly access the most frequently requested information through three large buttons on the homepage. Other features include full-site search functionality and a scrolling alert bar that can be used for emergency or breaking news updates. “In just seven years, the number of members connected to the Internet who use our website has increased significantly. It goes without saying that DMEA needs a professional and informative site for a large portion of our membership. The new site meets those expectations,” said Bro-

nec. Visit DMEA’s website at www.dmea.com<http:// www.dmea.com>. Members can find information about the co-op’s residential and commercial efficiency programs, safety, community support, history, and much more. Members can also access their account 24/7 through SmartHub, DMEA’s online account management tool. SmartHub allows members to pay their bill online and view detailed energy consumption data. Yearly, monthly, and even hourly comparisons are available. Other SmartHub features include payment history, budgeting assistance, and tools to understand your data.

IT’S THE SPOOKIEST TIME OF THE YEAR!

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Lest we forget

Photo submitted

VFW Post 9221 and the Auxiliary in Cedaredge performed a POW/MIA ceremony at their October meeting. This ceremony is created to remember comrades who are being held as prisoners of war or missing in action. They must remain alive in our minds and hearts until we know they have returned home to their loved ones or have declared killed. Moral support must be given to their families, who continue to suffer along with them. Pictured left to right are Tom McLamb, master of ceremonies, Wayne Hamrick, post commander, Bill Pease, senior vice commander, and Sandra Scott, Auxiliary senior vice.

B6 Wednesday, October 28, 2015

SPORTS

SPORTS October 28, 2015

Delta County Independent

www.deltacountyindependent.com

Hotchkiss-Paonia grid rivalry gets extreme BY ERIC GOOLD DCI Sports Writer

A player was ejected. The head coaches confronted each other during a contentious postgame handshake, and 63 points were scored. Hotchkiss and Paonia renewed a contest that has been played in the North Fork Valley for nearly a hundred years last Friday night at Hotchkiss High School. The Eagles came away with a 49-14 victory that secured at least a share of the Western Slope Conference title and repercussions will be felt for at least another week as this emotional rivalry only got hotter. “I’m proud of the way the kids battled and we’re going to get better for this,” Hotchkiss coach Mike Sirko said. “It’s one of those things where we just gotta get better.” One thing is certain: Taylor Walters was heard from. The senior quarterback from Paonia has not lost to Hotchkiss in his football career, and he played maybe his best game in the rivalry last Friday night. Walters ran for four touchdowns and threw for another as he showed the skill set that has college recruiters giddy at the thought of what he can do at the next level. Wade Katzdorn put the Bulldogs on the board first with his 5yard touchdown run. Paonia responded by rattling off the next five touchdowns, start-

ing with a 1-yard run by Walters. The teams traded possessions, then Jeramiah Hillman blazed off tackle for a 35-yard touchdown and a 14-7 Paonia lead. Junior linebacker Trevor Smith blocked Colton Peebles’ punt on the ensuing Bulldogs drive and set up the Eagles with good field position. Walters took advantage of it and ran in a 6-yard touchdown right before halftime, putting the Eagles in front 21-7. “We had a pretty good effort, we had a good first half,” Sirko said. “We just put the ball on the ground too much, made too many mistakes. We knew it’d be tough coming in here. I’m proud of the way they battled in the first half.” Smith collected a 28yard scoring pass from Walters to open the second half, and Paonia was in command at 28-7. Hotchkiss put together a promising eight-play drive, but it ended when Smith forced and recovered a fumble. Walters scored again, an 8-yard TD run, and Paonia was up 35-7. The Bulldogs put together another ground and pound drive, this one ending with Katzdorn rushing into the house for a 4-yard TD that made the score 35-14. Katzdorn finished with 105 rushing yards and two scores for Hotchkiss. Walters answered with his gem of a 46yard touchdown run,

slicing down the sideline and giving Paonia a 4214 edge going into the fourth quarter. Trevor Plymale completed the scoring in the game with his 3-yard TD burst four minutes later. Smith was ejected after being flagged for his second unsportsmanlike penalty late in the contest. By rule he must sit out this Friday night’s game against Cedaredge. Paonia coach Brent McRae blamed himself for not taking Smith out after his first unsportsmanlike flag. “But it was iffy on that first one whether he did it or not, so we kept him in there,” McRae said. “He’s a young man and he’s got to learn composure. As a team we all have to learn to be composed.” Both teams got chippy at the end of the game, and multiple penalty flags flew. “We’ll clean that up. That’s something we’ve got to work on,” McRae said. Paonia (7-1, 4-0 WSC) can win the conference title outright with a victory at home over Cedaredge (7-1, 3-1 WSC) on Friday night. Hotchkiss (3-5, 2-2 WSC) goes to Meeker (5-3, 3-1 WSC) to finish out the regular season. “We’re excited for the future of the program,” Sirko said. “We’ve got a big matchup against Meeker that we got to get ready for, and that’s what we’re worried about right now.”

Hotchkiss girls, Paonia duo to state XC meet The Bulldogs are going back to state. The Hotchkiss girls’ cross country team placed three runners in the top 15 and finished second in the 2A Region 4 race last Friday at Confluence Park in Delta, qualifying for a return to this weekend’s state championship race in Colorado Springs. “I’m extremely proud of all of them, for all their effort and everything they put in this season,” said Hotchkiss senior Mae Anderson, who ran the 5k lake course in a fourth-place time of 19 minutes, 54.08 seconds. Anderson crossed the line after Telluride’s Soleil Gaylord and Maya Ordonez and Soroco’s Chloe Veilleux. “Just about where I thought I’d finish. I was shooting for top five,” Anderson said. “I really like this course. It’s one of my favorites. I love how it’s flat. It’s a short and fast course.” Kaiya Firor continued her standout season and finished 10th for Hotchkiss with her time of 20:48.81. Sophia Schelle posted a strong 14th place run at 21:06.97 for the Bulldogs. Mariah Griffith will run at state with the Bulldogs after her time of 23:15.78 rounded out

the team times. Hotchkiss finished fourth in the team standings at state last year, and the Bulldogs have a real chance at improving upon that finish this weekend. “I love watching them work so hard in practice, and this is just a huge payoff for us,” Anderson said. “I’m excited to see what we can go do over there on the other side of the mountains.” The top two regional teams qualified for state. Hotchkiss finished second to Telluride, and Paonia was just short of qualifying for state and finished third. But the news was all good for the Eagles, who got two individual runners qualified to run at state and saw all of their team post personal records during the regional race. “I think we finished really strong,” Paonia senior Chelsea Meilner said. “I think all of our girls did awesome, and I couldn’t be more proud of them for the work and effort they showed this season. All of them set PRs and some by like 30 seconds, so I just couldn’t be more proud of them.” Meilner was right behind Anderson, crossing the line at 19:56.18 to finish fifth in the regional race.

“It was a good run, pretty soggy in some places,” Meilner said. “The wet course kind of leveled the playing field. Telluride and Hotchkiss ran really good races, and they deserve to go to state.” This will be Meilner’s fourth consecutive run at the state championship, where she posted her best personal finish and made the podium last year. Brooke Hillman continued her marvelous season for Paonia and will join Meilner at the state championship after she crossed the line in 21:01.13, good for a 13th place finish in the regional race. The top 15 individuals qualified for state. Nora Dransfield was the next Eagle to finish, crossing the line at 22:20.68. Macy O’Rourke (24:49.84) and Courtney Van Vleet (25:58.07) completed the Eagles’ team times.

Mae Anderson

Kaiya Firor

Brooke Hillman

BY ERIC GOOLD DCI Sports Writer

Chelsea Meilner

Photo by Eric Goold

Hotchkiss wide receiver Julian Smith is tackled by Paonia linebacker Jeramiah Hillman (33) in last Friday night’s rivalry game. The Eagles’ 49-14 victory kept the North Fork Bowl trophy in Paonia for a third straight year.

Paonia volleyball to districts, finish strong BY ERIC GOOLD DCI Sports Writer

The Eagles volleyball team got just what the doctor ordered. After suffering through an uncharacteristic mid-season slump, Paonia recovered to win eight consecutive matches and heads to districts this weekend with tons of momentum. On Senior Night last Tuesday, the Eagles (163) put together one of their strongest matches of the year, avenging one of those mid-season losses by beating Cedaredge 21-25, 25-22, 25-19, 2519. “Cedaredge was a great match for us in terms of confidence,” Paonia coach Krista Carsten said. “We did a good job of staying composed when we needed to, and our middles did their jobs putting the ball away when we needed a side-out. I’m really proud of the entire team effort.” Paonia honored seniors Taylor Carsten, Ashley Van Vleet and Emily Clawson before the match. “These three girls have been so important to the success of our team,” Carsten said. “Taylor brings so much wisdom and knowledge of the game to the floor. I guess that is part of growing up in a gym and having a coach for a mom. Ashley has developed into such a

dynamic hitter. There is no doubt that when she is on, she is pretty much unstoppable because of her height and jumping ability. “Emily is one of those players who can fill a lot of different roles,” Carsten said. “The quality that I admire most in her is her leadership and kindness that she provides to our younger players. Definitely three key players in our program who are instrumental in our success and it has been a wonderful experi-

ence coaching them.” Paonia wrapped up the regular season with straight-set wins over Caprock and Hotchkiss. “Both Caprock and Hotchkiss have improved greatly,” Carsten said. “And with the Cedaredge win, it was a solid week for us.” Paonia heads to Grand Valley High School for this weekend’s 2A District 5 tournament competition. The top three teams from that tournament will go on to regionals.

Photo by Eric Goold

Paonia senior Ashley Van Vleet knocks in a kill just over the double block of Hannah Gilmore (33) and Nellie Freeman (11). Paonia won on Senior Night, and the teams split their regular season matchups.

Paonia, Hotchkiss boys represent NF at XC meet BY ERIC GOOLD DCI Sports Writer

Caden Meilner never expected to make it to the state cross country championship. “This is something I do kind of on the side. It helps me stay strong for football and wrestling,” Meilner said after crossing the finish line at last Friday’s 2A regional cross country race at Confluence Park in Delta. The sophomore from Paonia ran a personal record time of 17 minutes, 18.60 seconds, good for a 13th place finish in the race that qualified him for this weekend’s state championship. “I didn’t really pace well at the beginning,” Meilner said. “I had a fast first mile but kind of slowed down and when I realized I had to pass some people, I really pushed for a kick at the end.” Meilner turned on

the afterburners in the final stretch and passed three runners to move into position to qualify for state. The top 15 individual runners made the cut. “This season I hadn’t really worked on that, but I knew if I wanted to pass people, I would have to really kick it at the end. I guess it worked,” Meilner said. “I was right on the edge there for a while so it’s kind of the icing on the cake.”

Caden Meilner

As a team, the Eagles fell short of their goal to qualify for the state race, but all of the young runners showed marked improvement over the year, establishing a strong base to build on next season. Tim Helmer capped his marvelous season with a time of 18:17.66 and finished 28th. Ben O’Rourke ran across the line next, for Paonia at 19:48.38 and Bo Pipher ended his cross country efforts with a time of 19:51.52. Ethan Bartlett (21:27.89), Dominic Limone (22:46.02) and John Deck rounded out the Eagles’ team score at regionals. “Our guys had a really strong day, all of them put up great times,” Meilner said. “It was just great to be a part of it.” The top four of 11 boys’ teams at the regional race qualified for state, BOYS XC TO B7

SPORTS

Delta County Independent

Wednesday, October 28, 2015

Panthers roar in 41-0 win BY WAYNE CRICK DCI Sports Editor

Delta’s Panthers control their own destiny with two football games remaining in regular season play. A 41-0 win over Eagle Valley last week moves the Panthers to a record of 5-0 in league play and 7-1 overall. Rifle and Palisade are chasing the Panthers with identical 4-1 and 7-1 records. Delta can win the league race with victories in its last two games. The first challenge is with Central, a game that is slated to take place this Thursday, at 7 p.m., at Stocker Stadium. The Panthers would garner the league title with a win in Delta over Palisade on Nov. 6. Last week’s 3A WSL victory over Eagle Valley was an easy one, with the Panthers doing all their scoring in three quarters. Cameron Schaal put the first numbers on the scoreboard after he intercepted Eagle Valley quarterback Garrett Martin and returned the ball 28 yards for a touchdown with 9:20 left in the first

period. A.B. Ontiveros booted the extra point for a 7-0 Delta lead. The Devils sputtered, again, on their second possession when Josh Reeder picked up a loose football and carried it to the 4-yard line. From there, Jonny Ponce thundered into the end zone for a score that boosted the Panthers’ lead to 140 after Ontiveros’ kick. Eagle Valley’s next possession ended after three plays and a punt to the Panthers’ 45-yard line. A procedure penalty on the Panthers moved the ball back to the 40. Ponce got the 5 yards back on his next run. The game’s longest run came on the next play with Ponce exploding up the middle for a 55-yard scoring jaunt with 6:03 left in the first half. The Ontiveros kick made the score 28-0. The Devils were unable to move the ball on their fourth possession and gave Delta its fourth possession beginning at the Panthers’ 30yard line. Delta had the ball at Eagle Valley’s 5-yard line

before a 7-yard loss set up a 29-yard field goal attempt by Ontiveros. The game moved to the second quarter before Ontiveros’ try. As play resumed in the second stanza, Ontiveros’ kick was short and wide right to leave the score at 210. Neither team scored on its fifth possession. Delta’s next opportunity to score began with 5:20 left in the half with the ball resting on Eagle Valley’s 32-yard line. A Roberts-to-Braden Atchley pass covering 17 yards, to the Devils’ 4-yard line, highlighted Delta’s drive. Tristan Brown ended the 10-play, 68-yard drive with his run of 4 yards. Ontiveros’ kick gave Delta a 28-0 lead with 1:26 left before halftime. A quick three-and-out for the Devils gave Delta one last scoring chance beginning at the Panthers’ 47-yard line. Roberts hit Ontiveros for 21 yards on the first play of the drive and used tight end Kory Mills for the rest of the yardage for a Delta score. Mills caught

a pass for 13 yards and finished the drive with a 9-yard reception for the score with 9.2 seconds remaining before intermission. Ontiveros gave the Panthers a 35-0 lead going to halftime. The game’s final score came midway through the third period. Roberts helped his own cause with a 21-yard scamper to keep the drive alive. 9-yard passes to Mills and Brown moved the ball to Eagle Valley’s 2-yard line. From there it was easy work for Brown as he bulled his way into the end zone with 6:36 left in the game. The PAT try failed, leaving the score at 41-0. Ponce rushed 14 times for 169 yards to lead Delta’s ground game. Mills caught three passes for 35 yards and Brown snagged two for 24 yards. Defensively, Mills and Brown were the Panthers’ top tacklers with 10 each. Sam Komives, Reeder and Logan Church were also busy with eight tackles apiece. Stephen Davignon finished the game with seven tackles.

Bruins thump Lake County BY WAYNE CRICK DCI Sports Editor

Cedaredge High School’s football team rolled over Lake County’s Panthers 49-6 last Friday night in Cedaredge. The Bruins had 387 yards of combined offense and scored seven touchdowns in the course of the game. Senior Tyler Cooper scored three times and picked up 77 yards on six carries for the Bruins. Other Bruins who scored touchdowns were Tristan Waddell, JP Morgan, Ty Grant and Isaac Swoffer. Anthony Antuna was credited with a safety, and Bryce Klaseen kicked five extra points to make the final score 49-6. Waddell led Cedaredge receivers in yards with 53 on four catches and a score. Morgan had two

catches for 43, and Swof- ins at least a share of a is slated for 7 p.m. at fer caught a Jacob Ostrom league title. That contest Paonia Town Park. aerial for 38 yards. Defensively, Shawn Badding, Ethan Fritchman and Mario Madelino made five tackles each for the winners. Teammates Kyler Anderson, Jared Reynolds and Tre’ Labossierre had four tackles each. The Bruins are third in the 1A WSL with a record of 3-1 in league play and 7-1, overall. Paonia leads the team race at 4-0 and 7-1, followed by Meeker, 3-1 and 5-3. State rankings show the Bruins at sixth, Paonia seventh and Meeker 12th. The predicted standings for state pairings show Paonia third, Meeker 10th and Cedaredge 13th. A win in Paonia on Friday would shake things up and help give the Bru-

CHS dominates WSL softball BY WAYNE CRICK DCI Sports Editor

A second straight trip to the Class 3A State Softball Championships was a reward for a terrific season. Unfortunately, for the second straight time, Cedaredge was unable to get past its opening game in first-round action. It was Burlington last year and Eaton this season. After trailing 8-12 late in the game, Eaton put together two three-run innings to claim a 14-12 win. The loss ended Cedaredge’s season at 13-9.

The Bruins were honPhoto by Randy Sunderland ored with several postseason awards, however. Cedaredge sophomore Pedro Madelino stuffs a run Six players were by Lake County’s Isaac Carrizales. selected to this year’s Class 3A WSL All-Conference team. Seniors Sam Galley and Chey Christian were joined by juniors Brit�� tany Kendall and Shayna �� Dale as First Team selec�� tions. Honorable Mention �� honors were doled out to senior Hailey Lofley and �� junior Brittney Thliveris. �� This year’s Player of �� the Year was the Bruins’ �� Sam Galley and coach �� Matt Hall was honored �� as Coach of the Year.

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Boys XC CONTINUED FROM B6 which turned out to be Mancos, Ouray, Telluride and Crested Butte. Paonia finished seventh right behind North Fork rival Hotchkiss, which was sixth. The Bulldogs’ young core of runners has years of success to look forward to and came just seconds short of qualifying for state. “They’re all young runners. They’re just good runners,” said Andrew Oviedo, the lone Bulldogs senior this season. “Knowing that a lot of them are younger than myself, I think a lot of them kick themselves and see it as a disappointment that they didn’t make it. Me being an outgoing senior, I see it as an optimistic point to learn from.” Gabe Rodriguez completed an outstanding

running season and finished 18th with his time of 17:42.60. His brother Sam Rodriguez was right behind him, which happened a lot this year, and posted a solid time of 17:45.05. Zack Allen finished next for the Bulldogs at 17:52.55. Parker Katzdorn (19:50.47), Oviedo (20:12.66), Nick Jung (20:14.00), Trenton Carr (20:30.21) and Myles Zoutte (21:15.88) completed the boys’ team score for Hotchkiss. “I made a point to mention before we ran that I was proud of each and every one of them and that I’ve had a great season with them,” Oviedo said. “I feel like they’re going to be amazing next year. It just really pumps me up to see them run this great, even if it didn’t end the way we wanted.”

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Photo by Wayne Crick

Delta senior Stephen Davignon recovers a loose football during action against the visiting Eagle Valley Devils last Friday. The Panthers rolled to a 41-0 win in the tough 3A WSL.

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B8 Wednesday, October 28, 2015

SPORTS

Delta County Independent

Delta VB moves up with wins week’s volleyball play concluded. Delta’s PanThere was a change in thers moved from fourth top-five rankings in 4A to second in team standWSL standings after last ings following their two

BY WAYNE CRICK DCI Sports Editor

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league wins against Glenwood Springs and Rifle. A loss by Battle Mountain to Eagle Valley enabled Delta, 10-3 and 19-3, to move ahead of them and placed the Devils, 9-3 and 14-7, ahead of the Huskies, 9-3 and 137, for third place. Steamboat Springs is listed atop the standings at 10-2 and 17-3. Against Glenwood Springs on Tuesday, Oct. 20, the Panthers set the tone for match-play with a dominating 25-9 firstset win. With Delta trailing 2-3, Shanan Davey served up seven straight points, allowing the Panthers to take a 10-3 lead to never be threatened the rest of the way. In the match, Emily Baier paced Delta’s play at the net with 16 kills and one block, and post-

ed 13 digs to help get the Panthers’ offense on track. Ashton Reese was also stellar at the net with her 13 kills for the Panthers. Shelbi Ledesma contributed four kills. Davey finished the game with two aces and 19 digs. Emily Nortnik had 31 assists, and Makayla Mills blocked two shots at the net. In Delta’s second match of the week on Thursday, the Panthers were relentless in their offensive attack and began the

match with a 25-16 firstset victory over Rifle. Rifle opened the second set with a nine-point run before losing the service with a 9-1 lead. Davey served up more of her magic with eight points to get the Panthers back into the set, 9-10. Delta took a 14-12 lead on Davey’s next service and fought off several attempted runs by the Bears to win the second set 25-18. Set three was a backand-forth affair, with the Bears holding four-point

leads at various points of the set. Ledesma ignited a six-point run with her service near the midway point, and Delta earned a 20-18 lead that would ultimately hold up for a 25-19 win and the match victory, 3-0. Reese had the best kill numbers in this contest with 15. Baier finished with 14 kills and a block. Mills and Dani Sakala had two kills each. Delta will finish regular-season play in Palisade this Thursday, Oct. 29, at 6:30 p.m.

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Shanan Davey Photo by Eric Goold

Noel Jaramillo digs the ball off the backline while Gratia Fisher (8), Fatima Rodriquez (9) and Maddie Guthrie look on for the Bulldogs. First-year coach Taralee Williams watches the play from the bench.

‘Dogs’ volleyball team ends regular season, looks to the future

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BY ERIC GOOLD DCI Sports Writer

The Hotchkiss volleyball team completed the regular season last Saturday in the Bulldogs gym. While they fell in three sets to Meeker, the Bulldogs have much to look forward to. After playing very well in a tough defeat at home against Paonia last Friday, Bulldogs coach Taralee Williams hoped for a stronger effort against Meeker. “If we played today the way we played against Paonia, we would have won,” Williams said. “I was expecting after yesterday’s performance that we would just bring it. We didn’t show up to play today. End of story.”

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Meeker won the first set 25-18 after Hotchkiss was hurt by some service errors and net violations. In the second set, Gratia Fisher hit a kill for an early 3-1 lead, then Carson Collins and Tyra Jaramillo hit home kills, and Hotchkiss jumped ahead 7-5. Fatima Rodriquez had a block to make it 10-9 for the Bulldogs. Halle Ahrens answered with a kill and a block for Meeker as the visitors reclaimed the lead, then Kristen Luce tipped in the final point for a 25-15 win for the Cowboys. The third set was tied several times before Meeker pulled ahead. Reese Pertile boomed home a kill, and Ahrens landed some wicked lefthanded serves that propelled Meeker to a 25-16 win and a clean sweep. “Everyone’s working on their individual skills, and we are getting better,” Williams said. “Now it’s about being consistent and playing well for the entire match. Mentally we just need to get tougher.” Hotchkiss honored

Panthers end XC campaign BY WAYNE CRICK DCI Sports Editor

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seniors Gratia Fisher, Maddie Guthrie and Noel Jaramillo before the match. “Gratia was with us from the beginning. She’s done everything for us, and she’s just awesome,” Williams said. “Maddie moved here this year and missed the summer, but she played real well for us. Noel has been great; she’s really stepped up as a senior, as a back row player. We’re going to miss all three of them greatly next year.” Williams finished her first season as coach and plans on many more. “I love teaching and coaching here,” Williams said. “These are the hardest-working girls I’ve ever coached. We’re going to get better. We’re going to do some stuff in the offseason, and I think things will be different next year.” The Bulldogs finished the regular season with two match wins. Hotchkiss had a road game in the pigtail match last night at Hayden. The winner advanced to this weekend’s district matches.

Delta High School’s cross country teams ended their seasons last week with competitions in the Colorado 4A Region 6 Cross Country Meet in Delta. Battle Mountain won the team title in the girls’ division with 31 points. Steamboat Springs was second with 87 points, Palisade third with 103 points and Durango fourth with 107 points. All four teams will represent the western slope at this week’s state meet. In addition, the top 15 runners also advance. The Panthers failed to qualify athletes in the female division. Mykayla Music was the first Delta runner to finish the race. She was 24th with a time of 20:36.22. Abbi Beckwith finished 49th for the Panthers, 21:39.04, Beki

Atchley was Delta’s third runner, 21:46.07, and Anha Richards was fifth to cross the finish line for the Panthers. Delta finished in ninth place as a team. John Ames finished the season as Delta’s top runner after placing 27th in last Friday’s qualifying race. Ames recorded a time of 17:29.24. Other scoring-runners for Delta included Wade Stinson, 18:08.72, Elias Carlson, 18:11.73, Logan Freed, 18:55.29, and Jeff Chadwick, 19:47.47. Durango won the team title with 28 points. The next three teams also qualified to attend this year’s state meet. Those three teams include Battle Mountain, 50, Glenwood Springs, 110, and Montrose, 121. Delta was seventh in the team race with 226 points. Delta coach J.B. Lopez believes he will have a strong team in 2016.

SURFACE CREEK October 28, 2015

NEWS

Section

www.deltacountyindependent.com

Cedaredge policy tightens rules for contributions BY HANK LOHMEYER Staff Writer

Citizen groups and organizations wanting support from Cedaredge for their activities and projects may now have to prove their mettle and should expect to pay to play with dollars from the town. A new town policy has been prompted by an article from the Colorado Municipal League that warns cities and towns against funding organizations or projects that “develop an unhealthy dependence upon the financial assistance of a municipality,” or that “may falter or even cease to exist” without tax dollar support. The new policy of tightening up on contributions to local groups and projects was adopted on Sept. 17, two weeks after trustees decided to ask voters for a tax increase to fund “recreation” and “healthy living lifestyles.” The policy is based on the principle that, “Residents should not be taxed only to have the town tax dollars contributed to programs or projects that individual residents could support on their own.” The almost 600-word-long policy document doesn’t name any specific program or activ-

ity that will be denied tax dollar support because people who use it should be paying for it themselves. Citizen groups hoping for contributions of money or other support from the town for their projects or activities and that are subject of the new rules may refer to Resolution 15-2015 which also states in part, “Existing agreements, articulated as contributions, will be honored; however, at the time of agreement renewal, organizations shall define the manner in which they can reduce their operating burden, raise additional operating funds, justify the critical need for town residents and/or modify operations to benefit the cost of town operations.” Also, “Unless established by resolution or ordinance, new contribution requests will not be considered formally by the town.” The town’s new policy on funding for projects and activities came out of a work session discussion last summer initiated by Mayor Pat Means. At the time, trustees were caught in a net of competing claims on town resources by players of pickleball and tennis — two of the sports/ recreation programs the town currently provides funding and/or support for.

DMEA members get $10 to attend energy forums DMEA is offering $10 to its members for attending local forums designed to help them reduce their energy use. DMEA will host two of the member forums next month. They will highlight the coop’s programs and services designed to help members reduce their energy use. All members who attend will receive a $10 bill credit. The forums are scheduled for Monday, Nov. 16, 7 p.m. at Orchard City Town Hall, and Tuesday, Nov. 17, 7 p.m. at Hotchkiss Memorial Hall. Free dessert and refreshments will be served. The forums are an opportunity for members to learn about DMEA’s numerous efficiency and billing programs that can help them reduce their energy consumption and save money. DMEA staff members will discuss the programs and walk attendees through a variety of demonstrations and hands-on activities. “I invite all members who

are interested in learning about how to use energy wisely to attend. The forums will provide opportunities to learn about efficient technologies and the incentives available to take advantage of them. At the very least, you’ll walk away armed with information that can help you save money,” said DMEA Energy Services supervisor Phil Zimmer. Although the forums will begin with presentations from DMEA, ample time will be allotted for questions and answers. Members of DMEA’s management team and board members will be available to help answer questions. “These forums will focus on energy efficiency and assistance programs, but our ultimate goal is to listen to our members. They are informal gatherings where all members are welcome to ask questions on any topic,” said DMEA manager of Member Relations and HR Virginia Harman.

CHS band takes second at state

The Cedaredge High School marching band finished in second place in the state 1A competition held Monday, Oct. 26, in Pueblo. The Bruins competed against Estes Park, Bayfield, Platte Valley, Monte Vista and Gunnison in the morning, advancing into the finals with Estes Park and Bayfield. The bands are judged in music performance, visual performance and general effect. Although CHS was best in visual performance, Estes Park was best in music performance and general effect and won with a score of 64.20 — just two points ahead of CHS. The CHS band is under the direction of Melissa Gross with help from Ryan Bigley, and drum majors Zack Kaczmarek and Brooke Toothaker.

Boisterous Bruin fans draw a yellow flag Ruling on the field was overturned upon review of CHSAA rules BY HANK LOHMEYER Staff Writer

Rambunctious rooting for the home team and celebrations of success at the Cedaredge Bruins’ Homecoming game against Aspen drew a yellow flag when the visiting team convinced the ref to have Cedaredge fans tone things down a bit. But after a delayed review of the episode via the CHSAA rule book, it was found that the ref had been in error and that boisterous Bruin fans were playing by the rules. The incident began with a complaint from the Aspen bench, as detailed in a report from the Cedaredge Police Department Chief Dan Sanders to the town trustees: “At this year’s Homecoming football game against Aspen, the police and fire department received a complaint from the Aspen athletic director regarding our tradition of lights and sirens after a Bruin score. This has been something we have participated in since I have been with the town and was something I suspect

has been a long-time tradition. The complainer quoted CHSAA rules regarding noise makers as his grounds for the complaint. The referee at that time asked if we would refrain from using our lights and sirens for the remainder of the game, and in good sportsmanship style we did as asked. This caused some disdain from the parents and all of us emergency responders as we love to celebrate our kids and their accomplishment.” But that’s not the end of the story. It wasn’t to be an on-field instant replay that reversed the ref ’s call. Rather, it was a simple peek into the CHSAA rules book. Turns out that the Cedaredge fans’ hometown heroics were appropriate under CHSAA rules and that the ref in question had made a mistake. The chief ’s report to the town board continued, “Based on this we decided to look the rule up ourselves and we found that there was not a violation and that actually there

is a specific clause allowing for this type of activity. “Officer Curtis provided this information to the high school principal and he also informed us that the referee that night had come in to apologize as they had found no violation after reviewing the rules...” So not only is all the hometown whooping-it-up for the Bruin boys appropriate under CHSAA rules as interpreted in light of the Homecoming complaint, local fans are, of course, always respectful of the rules. As the chief ’s report concluded, “We always make sure that the sirens and air horns are activated during ‘dead ball’ periods and would not ever want to take away from the game itself. We have also made sure that if the game is a blowout and celebration would be insulting that we do not do this.” The chief ’s report then concludes with an enlightening observation: “It shows that sometimes just knowing the rules is much harder than it appears.”

Lions bingo is becoming popular BY HANK LOHMEYER Staff Writer

A full house of hopeful bingo players turned out at the first anniversary of the twice-monthly Lions Club bingo nights on Oct. 21. The big attendance put a real community endorsement to the club’s newest fundraising activity. Almost 70 people enjoyed the evening that was spiced up with birthday cake and a Halloween raffle that included frozen turkey giveaways, goodie bags and other prizes. The Lions twice-per-month

The colorful ‘dobies

Photo by Julie Mulford

Wednesday night events have taken the club’s community service involvement to a new level — these bingo nights have become community social events where people go for a fun “night out on the town.” There are no strangers in the Civic Center dining hall once the caller begins announcing numbers and the easy-paced excitement begins. Smiles turn into new acquaintances made and communitybuilding friendship encounters become the real evening’s attraction. LIONS BINGO TO C2

Photo by Hank Lohmeyer

The ‘dobies get a splash of bright color at right from a faint rainbow that formed following a spell of showers last week.

Photo by Hank Lohmeyer

A big birthday cake was on hand to help celebrate the oneyear anniversary of the beginning of the Surface Creek Valley Lions Club’s twice-monthly bingo nights on Oct. 21. The bingo nights have become a popular community social event.

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SURFACE CREEK NEWS

Lions bingo FROM PAGE C1 And there is always that bit of added thrill when victory is in sight — just one call away as players wait with hearts beating a bit quicker for that rotating cage of little bingo-numbered balls to finally cough up the last number they need for a “bingo.” The Surface Creek Valley Lions Club is an organization that has strong member support participation. At least 10 members were there last week to help stage the event. In addition to the

fun and games, club members offer homemade dinner and snack offerings that are available through the evening. And club members treat their guests right as satin-gold vested Lions kept busy making their ways throughout the hall all evening long ensuring that players have the cards and other materials they need to play and enjoy themselves. For the lucky winners there are cash prizes paid out from the different games played each night.

Proceeds from the Surface Creek Valley Lions Club’s bingo nights help fund its many local community activities and charitable causes sponsored by the Lions International organization as well. In addition, the club lists more than a dozen causes and activities it contributes to, helps stage, or organizes completely on its own. These include Boy Scouts; eye glasses purchased for local individuals (three pair in 2015); Health Fair staffing, both at the February early blood draws and the March main event; the annual Little Britches Rodeo Parade; the spring kids’ Easter egg hunt; early childhood vision screenings; scholarships for Cedaredge High School graduates; and cookouts in Town Park at Little Britches and at AppleFest. The club also donated to improvements at the Lions Pavilion in Town Park this year. The club also collects eyeglasses for recycling (most going to Mexico from Colorado); helps support the handicap camp at Woodland Park; contributes to leader dog training for both the hearing and sight impaired; and it supports the Rocky Mountain Eye Bank and Foundation, and the Rocky Mountain Eye Institute.

Delta County Independent

Enhancing character at Cedaredge High School BY McKENZIE MOORE CHS Intern

At 7:15 a.m. every Wednesday, Ken Gates gathers a small group of Cedaredge High School students who desire a change in their lives that allows them to inspire their peers. Known to the school as “leadership meetings,” the discussions take place in the library every week. Students discuss leadership methods and positive character traits, watch encouraging videos, and ponder the ways they can inspire greatness in both themselves and their fellow students. Mr. Gates teaches social studies at Cedaredge Middle School, and started the leadership meetings when he noticed a need for true leaders at Cedaredge High School this fall. He already notices a change in the attitude of the students

Ken Gates who attend. “It’s evident in the conversation, both here and between students, that the change is happening.” He wishes to instill positivity and kindness in the minds of each student. When asked how he hopes the sessions will create leaders, Mr. Gates replies, “It’s more about enhancing character and giving them an educa-

tion on how to make decisions.” The meetings have a common theme: that true leadership starts with inspiring the person within. The sessions begin with the introduction of a theme and continue to a deep conversation about how each student can apply that theme in their own life. Students share stories and create ideas in the 30-minute time period. Although the CHS fishbowl contained only a few students this last session due to a sports conflict, the students who attend are making waves at Cedaredge High School by enforcing positive influences in academics, sports and outside of school. By taking a little time before school, Mr. Gates creates an alliance of young leaders who encourage their peers to reach their goals.

�� Fri., Oct. 30 & Sat., Oct. 31 7-11 p.m.

Adults $8 ~ Kids, 12 & Under, $5

(Kids 12 yrs. old & under must be accompanied by an adult)

Let's go to the Pondy!

Bear Den for September

YAY! A COSTUME CONTEST IS SATURDAY NIGHT!

Photo submitted

Students at Cedaredge Elementary School are nominated each month by their teachers to be included in the Bear Den. The different characteristics which can earn recognition are Perseverance (P), Respect (R), Integrity (I), Duty (D) and Excellence (E). This month’s Bear Den students are: kindergartners Veni Morrell and Kam Schumacher from Ms. Barton’s class; Dane Brown and Abby Lischke from Mrs. Tanner’s class; and Bentley Nichols and Spencer Reynolds from Mrs. Parsons’ class; first-graders Peyton Wood and James Scott from Ms. Belger’s class; Kimbry Hebert and Ira Williams from Mrs. Campbell’s class; and Danny Rogers and Zayda Richens from Mrs. Rienks’ class; second-graders Zavier Koehn and Samantha Bean from Miss Benson’s class; Cruz Alejandre and Violet Grubb-Eisele from Mrs. Hawkins’ class; and Michaela Brennan and Brandon Barks from Ms. Winemiller’s class; third-graders Zane Pritchett and Izzy Cerise from Mrs. Fuller’s class; Abby Brooks and Tel Geyer from Mrs. Lampton’s class; and Livia Stahly and Kayden Huggett from Mrs. Hoerr’s class; fourth-graders Camden Myers and Jasmin Rivera from Ms. Berger’s class; Andy Kaiser and Kacey Walck from Mrs. Cox’s class; and Paityn Hogan and Andrew Purvis from Mr. Stanfield’s class; and fifth-graders Keona Rodriguez and Kylee Terry from Mrs. Whitney’s class; Michael Dowd and Megan Conway from Mr. Henderson’s class; and Marchal Purdy and Dariana Villalobos from Mr. Thompson’s class.

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McEuen show here to be a musical reunion BY HANK LOHMEYER Staff Writer

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““Stay Close to Home & Fa mily, We Are Here for Y ou r Health”

Country Music Hall of Fame songwriter, singer, and banjo picker John McEuen is coming to Cedaredge for a concert. McEuen has been featured in previous performances at Cedaredge. His upcoming concert at the AppleShed on Saturday, Nov. 21, will be a reunion of McEuen with with Jimmy Ibbotson. Ibbotson is a Nitty Gritty Dirt Band alum, and McEuen is a founding member and current member of the group. The two musical colleagues haven’t done a duo show in over a dozen years, and their first one since then will be in Cedaredge. “They will be perform-

New series, H2O - September 20 through November 8th th

CEDAREDGE ASSEMBLY OF GOD Find out more @ www.cedaredgeag.com Sundays 10:00 a.m. dress code is casual, come as you are!

ing songs and telling stories from the nearly 50 years the Nitty Gritty Dirt Band has been making music together. Pretty cool stuff!” noted David Starr of Starr’s Guitars in Cedaredge who has arranged the performance and is glad to be able to bring a Country Music Hall of Fame performance to town. McEuen is also performing a solo concert in Rifle the following night. McEuen told the DCI in an email, “Jimmy Ibbotson will be joining me on Nov. 21 in Cedaredge for the first show together with just the two of us in 15 years. Jim, the main voice of the Nitty Gritty Dirt Band, left the group about 10 years ago, and after not speaking for most of that time, well … much water under several bridges, and none were burned … or the water under the bridge put the fire out. Let’s say a lot of water under the bridge put the fire out before it burned. “We are planning on a long night of Nitty Grittyknown songs (Jim wrote many of the hits, and sang many) and the stories behind them, blue-

grass favorites, jamming, and audience involvement in a way that will keep people asking for more,” McEuen told the DCI. “It will be a great experience for both of us. I have missed his songs, voice, and performing. And so have a huge number of people. Together we have probably done 250 duo shows on top of 6,000 NGDB shows. The DVD I produced, Nitty Gritty Surround - John McEuen and Jim Ibbotson won four awards,” McEuen said. No paper tickets will be issued. Names of paid reservation-holders will be on a list at the door. Prices are $22 in advance; $25 day of the show. Reserve in person or by phone: Starr’s Guitars, 250 W. Main Street, 856-2331; or online at www.starrsguitars.com.

Correction

A story last week misidentified the current president of the Surface Creek Valley Lions Club. The newly elected president is Ray Hanson. The DCI regrets the error.

BRUIN TRACKS

Delta County Independent

Wednesday, October 28, 2015

C EDAREDGE HIGH SCHOOL

575 Southeast Deer Creek Drive

970 856 6882

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Victory March: CHS Takes Home the Regional Title and Heads to State By: Mckenzie Moore Website Editor

A stadium filled with fans cheered for the CHS Marching Bruins as they completed their first-place field show on Thursday, October 15th. With a regional score of 55.6, the band currently sits at first in the state for Class 1A. Drum major Brooke Toothaker expresses her excitement about the win, but states, “I’m pretty nervous for state competition.” All the qualifying bands in Class 1A scored within a point of each other, making the placement of state finals difficult to

predict. Although the band anticipates state competition, they also celebrate their current victory with joy. The regional competitions in Colorado determine the six 1A bands that qualify for state. The CHS Bruins plan to use their last week of rehearsal preparing for state on October 26th in Pueblo. After a long season, the band is excited to show off everything they’ve accomplished on the ﬁeld. The band has had a very successful season; they have won in every competition and have high hopes for their state competition. Kenna Signs and Daniel Roberts both play brass instruments in the band.

Football Refocuses After Tough Loss

By: Dylon Gartman Staff Writer Still standing strong, Cedaredge ups their game. “We just have to shake it off and play like we know how,” quotes Coach Cutter Garrison. After a tough loss against the Meeker Cowboys, the Cedaredge Bruins moved on and played Lake County, a team with a record of 0-7 prior to the Cedaredge game. Although the football team suffered a tough loss against Meeker, it takes more than that to shake this team and the win against Lake County added to their conﬁdence and record. “We just have to focus on the now and play the way we know how to”, mentions junior Zach Andersen. After last week’s game, the football team comes out 7-1. Monday through Thursday, from 4:00 pm to 6:00 pm, the Bruin boys are out on the ﬁeld working hard, constantly preparing for the Friday night lights. “This loss could be the stone that sharpens our knife”, commented head coach Brandon Milholland, speaking of the Meeker game. The loss at Meeker could be the wake up call that the Bruins needed to return back to their winning ways and the Lake Coutny game was a chance to prove that.

Jake Ostrom, #8, is the quarterback. He passes off the ball as the Bruins run a play that decieves the opponents. The team has high hopes for the post season. That being said, the practices have become more intense and more focused. Their next game is against Paonia, and it is the last game of their regular season. The team has high hopes for the post season and pushes through the difﬁcult practices while keeping the end goal in mind.

Take No Days Off

After winning league and hosting regionals, Cedaredge softball has had a great season. But they’re not done yet. Heading to state for the third year in a row, the team will compete at State in Aurora. Their ﬁrst game is against the 7 seed, Eaton, on Friday. If Cedaredge wins that game, they will then advance to play the 2 seed, La Junta. The tournament is single elimination. Coaches are looking forward to the competition and excited to see where their girls stand against the rest of the state. Coach Hatheway stated, “It’s been a great season so far and I can’t wait to see what else we can do.”

By: Hannah Hatheway Staff Writer

The softball team has once again had a successful season, they head to state excited and ready to play.

chs.deltaschools.com

WHAT’S BRUIN INSIDE

Volleyball is League Champions, first time since 1988, girls head to districts. Bruin Football will faceoff with Paonia this Friday night, currently third in the league. Softball plays at the State Championships in Aurora. First Rounds of ACT this week for Juniors; the reality of test scores sets in. Drama production in three weeks, mark your calendars for She Was Only Marginally Modest. Grades become all important as semester finals approach, the semester is over half way done. Bruins need to sharpen their claws and dig in to finish the first semester strongly. Seniors scramble to complete scholarship applications, Daniel’s deadline approaches (But that’s not the only one). Art hosts a pottery class, it occurs on the 5th and 17th of November, contact Ms. Gerstenecker. NHS had better unpack their shovels and get ready for snow. Contact Jennifer Milburn if you are interested in an NHS member shoveling your driveway. ACT/PSAT testing this week.

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Golf Finishes Up With State Competition

Cedaredge High School Jacob Lewis ﬁnishes his swing and watches where the ball lands.

By: Jacob Lewis Staff Writer

An amazing season has just finished up for the Cedaredge golf team. This season was full of fantastic opportunities and wonderful accomplishments. Peter Carlson, Duncan Campbell, and Jacob Lewis traveled to the state tournament to represent the team in Eagle. As the scores that they each posted were as good as they all wanted, the guys were still extremely proud that they were able to represent the town of Cedaredge. Peter Carlson, the season’s low and best scorer for the team, said “Overall, the season was ok. At times the team looked strong, but at others, the team fell apart.” Peter also says he thinks he speaks for the entire team that one goal for next year is to qualify for state as a team, and maybe even finish in the top half in the state. Peter’s favorite memory from this year was shooting the low team score and his personal best of an 80 at Haymaker Golf Resort in Steamboat Springs. This earned him a second place in the competition. Throughout all of the work the team put in during the season, it really showed off as the team finished this fantastic season, with more seasons to come.

History in the Making, First League Champs For Many Years By: Kenzie Henderson Staff Writer

They love winning. As the regular season comes to an end, the volleyball team prepares for districts and regionals with the hope of going to state. With a record of 15-4, Cedaredge Volleyball is ranked first in the league as they head into the postseason. With multiple league leaders in aces, kills, digs, and assists, the Cedaredge team continues to overcome any adversity or challenge. Kenzie Henderson leads the team with 155 kills while Hannah Gilmore follows close behind. Amber Jenkins leads the team in digs, and Kendall McHugh leads the team in aces and assists. With positive attitudes and high standards, the team continues to make history; this season is the first in a long time for Cedaredge to take home league champions. Nellie Freeman excitedly exclaims, “This has been a memorable senior season, and I cannot wait to see how far we go.” The team will be competing in the district tournament this Friday and Saturday in Grand Valley. With great leadership, the team only aspires to continue to improve and break barriers. Lydia Knutson, another senior team member, states that, “This season has been absolutely amazing. We have really bonded together and figured out how to succeed as a team.” The team will play in districts this Friday and Saturday, with the hope of becoming district champions.

Clockwise from top left: Lydia Knutson hits the ball into Caprock’s defense. Kenzie Henderson kills Caprock with a hit right into the far right corner. Nellie Freeman quickly digs a ball up after Amber Jenkins recieves the serve. Nellie Freeman serves the ball and earns an ace for the team. The entire varsity team discusses their plan of action for the upcoming set. Kendall McHugh tips the ball into the deep corners of Hotchkiss’ defense with a well placed shot to the ball.

College Bound in T Minus 9 Months By: Niala Stair Staff Writer Visiting your dream college, can be rather exciting for a senior, also it can be frightening. Some of the Cedaredge High School seniors went college visiting over the Fall Break. Noah LaVau went to two colleges over break, Colorado State University (CSU) and University of Colorado Boulder (CU). Noah signed up for a visitor program through both colleges, “CU’s program was difﬁcult to try to get through and set a time and date for you to be able to visit.” Noah said. “Some of the best things about CSU was you felt inspired, lots of diversity among the students. The worst thing about CSU was having to leave the campus.” Noah said, commenting on CSU. CU was to him a total different experience. CSU picked your tour guides based on your major, while CU just put you with a random stranger, and that’s what made it different, as well as the environment around CU. “CSU made me realize that college wasn’t going to be that bad after all, and that’s what I love.”

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AP Study Sessions CAN Make the Difference By: Alyssa Kissner Staff Writer AP study sessions will be starting soon for high school students in Delta County. The sessions will be offered on November 21st and April 23rd at Delta High School. They will be offering math, English, and social studies. Paonia High School will be having a study session on February 6th. They will start at

8:00 a.m. and go until 1:35 p.m. This is a great way for students to prepare and study for advanced placement classes with other students around the county. These sessions will prepare the students for success in these advanced courses in a friendly, social environment. Door prizes and snacks will be provided to those who join.

Senior Checklist By: Angela Saenz Staff Writter As seniors bask in their last days in high school, they still have important responsibilities to complete before the walk across the graduation stage. This time of the year seems the busiest for the seniors for many reasons. For instance, seniors received a small slip on their lockers for their senior quotes. Seniors also need to complete their senior pictures. The pictures, along with the senior quotes, can make

their way into the yearbook. The pictures and the quotes represent memories that the senior will hold dear for years to come. With all of the hustle and bustle of turning in senior items, students must remember to excel in their classes to enhance their cumulative GPA. After all, no one can expect to graduate without the proper grades and pre-requisites. Seniors, do not forget to enjoy your ﬁnal hours in Cedaredge High School as the time may ﬂy by fast!

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Snowmen Are A Little Flakey By: Lexi Anderson

Staff Writer The winter is coming, and students are

starting to bring their warm clothes out for the long, cold, snowy days. Some are excited, such as Patrick Walker who says, “I

like the snow, even though it can get pretty

cold here, I enjoy it. The best thing to do is go sledding.” Others were not so excited, “It is way too

cold,” states Noah Bagwell. “ My family does go out and cross country ski though.”

Since the icy roads are headed our way, it is important to stay safe while driving. Nolan Abercrombie said, “ I am cautious

when driving in the snow depending on how bad it is.”

Students and teachers should stay safe, but also they should try to enjoy the beautiful winter weather.

Cheater Cheater, Pumpkin Eater Student Editorial

By: Drew Markley & Lydia Knutson Assistant Editor & Editor in Chief Some parents cheat. They sneak into school sponsored events. Mr.Brown informed me that, “Some parents range in ways to sneak in. They can arrive super early so the ticket takers aren’t ready to take tickets yet. Some take activity passes and hand them to others so multiple people can use one card, others park at the middle school and walk up behind the school to avoid the gate. Some people act like they are going to the bathroom and just walk in through a different door.” To stop this problem, more staff members have been placed around the perimeter of events to make sure no one sneaks in early. They have also started arriving earlier and using punch cards for the activity passes.

BRUIN TRACKS Editor-in-Chief Lydia Knutson

Assistant Editor: Drew Markley Photography Editor: Lydia Knutson Advertising Editor: Kaeli Baugh Staff Writers:

Lexi Anderson Sierra Baldozier Kaeli Baugh Brittany Chlarson Hannah Hatheway Kenzie Henderson Colton Hoerr Megan Huggett Jared Hulteen Alyssa Kissner

Lydia Knutson Jacob Lewis Drew Markley Max Moore McKenzie Moore Sam Ribbens Angela Saenz Niala Stair Brooke Toothaker

The views expressed in the Bruin Tracks do not necessarily represent the opinions of Cedaredge High School or its staff. The Bruin Tracks is a public forum for student expression, striving for journalistic excellence; it is created as part of the Journalism class at Cedaredge High School. Bruin Tracks thanks all the advertisers and other community supporters. We welcome all comments.

“An average game costs the school $500 to put on plus the amount of equipment that the players wear,” stated Mr.Brown. He also stated that, “If people try to sneak in and manage to, it only hurts the kids they are watching.” He told me this has a trickle effect. The money that is made at football games alone is what is used to pay for every ref for the entire year. The effect happens when the school doesn’t have enough money to pay for the refs. The school then takes money out of the students budget and uses it to pay for the refs. Then the student’s could be forced to pay for utilities if they go on ﬁeld trips, such as lunch or hotels. Parents can’t preach ethics to their kids and be unethical themselves. This is hypocrisy- saying one thing and doing the opposite. Students hate it. Other parents hate it. Stop doing it.

Don’t Forget Seniors: TURN IN YOUR SENIOR PICTURES AND BUCKET LIST!!!!

SURFACE CREEK NEWS

Delta County Independent

Wednesday, October 28, 2015

Spinning yarns, weaving tales and knitting sweaters BY LEAH MORRIS Delta County Libraries

After a few weeks of rainy, cold fall weather, many people feel the call of their wool hats, socks and sweaters and find themselves reaching into closets and drawers to shake out these seasonal items. Other folks feel the call on a more basic level, brandishing knitting needles and crochet hooks to make their own warm garments. As the snow accumulates in the mountains, and the rain soaks the valleys, these crafters find reasons to come together in the warmth of community to share their talents, their patterns and their yarn. The Delta County Libraries provide convenient, comfortable venues for such gatherings, and several of the libraries hold regular knitting and crocheting sessions,

inviting anyone from the public who would like to perfect skills or simply enjoy the company of others. These gatherings are not exactly classes, as most do not feature a regular instructor, but the group members gladly help each other to complete projects at any level. Jane Kelso leads a monthly knitting group at the Paonia Library which usually takes place on the third Saturday of each month. She emphasizes that everyone is welcome, regardless of age or skill level. “Although this group is mostly grownups, we have some families attend. Knitting is a great skill to learn at any age, and we would be happy to teach anyone interested in learning.” She adds, “My mother taught me at age 14, and then I taught my daugh-

ter.” Participants of all ages also attend the weekly group at the Hotchkiss Library on Wednesday afternoons, where babies cuddle in colorful knit sweaters, teenagers learn basic techniques, and adults begin complicated projects with beautiful yarns. Sarah Pope started the program three years ago and has been pleased to watch it develop. She explains, “The group has grown to include knitting, crochet, felting, doll making and more. We’ve had all levels and types of fiber artists join us. We started out meeting once a month, but now meet once a week. It’s a great place to meet and enjoy the local community during the cold winter months.” Fiber arts and crafting programs in various forms take place at all

the Delta County Libraries. In addition to regular group sessions, Kelso says, “Paonia also hosts a yarn swap and yarn craft book sale each month. In January we are planning our fiber arts day with knitting, crocheting, embroidery, and carding and spinning fleece.” Delta Library holds a weekly knit and crochet group on Monday evenings called “Talk and Tangle,” a title which likely describes what really goes on at these gatherings. A crafts group meets at the Cedaredge Library on Tuesday mornings where all projects and ideas are welcome, including those involving yarn. The Crawford Library offers monthly craft days, often focusing on scrapbooking and card making. Photo submitted Crafting with a community group is an excel- Perfect your knitting/crocheting skills and enjoy the company of others at Delta County Libraries.

Plants of the Western Slope A look at local flora with Evelyn Horn Autumn When we came to the Delta region, Allen and I wondered what the Grand Mesa might look like without the golden aspen leaves. During the past few days, I’ve watched the patches of aspen gold fade into aspen gray. The pasture across the road is tawny, leaning into gray. The horses graze more quickly: I’m sure that the drying grass isn’t as tasty as it was a couple of weeks ago. Our Mahonia shrub in the driveway was heavy with lovely yellow flowers this spring and now it’s laden with red berries. The trumpet vine has stopped blooming, and I noticed this morning that some

Photo by Evelyn Horn

Pyracantha

of the leaves are edged with yellow. The hummingbirds have all gone south. The Pyracantha shrub is the only nonnative plant in our yard. It was a small plant at first, but now it’s easily five feet tall. It’s no longer a single plant but has spread into a six-foot

complex of sprawling growth. I enjoy watching it in spring with its clusters of half-inch white blossoms that are regularly visited by bees and hummingbirds. But now in autumn it is my favorite time: It’s covered with bright orange fruit. Spectacular! One of its common names is “firethorn.” It’s seen in many yards around Delta and Cedaredge. Since it’s thorny, it’s often planted close to windows — it’s tough to climb in the window! My dictionary of cultivated plants indicates that it originated in southeast Europe and Asia with six species. As a member of the rose family, it’s related to cotoneaster and haw-

thorn. My cultivated plant dictionary also gives numerous names and a host of alternate names with no botanical standing as is often the case with common names. It is propagated by seed, cuttings and grafting. On reading the dictionary descriptions, I think that my plant is properly Pyracanatha coccinea meaning firethorn. Coccinea refers to the orange-red berries. As I gaze at the berries this sunny autumn day, I recall how vivid they looked against the first snow and how they cheered me even when they lost their luster in late winter. I’m glad that we planted this nonnative shrub!

lent way to combat the tedium brought on by cold weather and short days. The Delta County Libraries strive to provide such

venues for patrons hoping to pass the time, learn a new skill, fulfill a goal, or make some new friends this fall and winter.

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C8 Wednesday, October 28, 2015

CHURCH

Delta County Independent

Women gather to ‘Survive, Revive and Thrive’ Women who desire to to a fall spiritual renewal be refreshed and rechal- at First Baptist Church lenged in their relation- of Delta. ship with God are invited The theme of this year’s

event is “Survive, Revive and Thrive.” Kristi Ross is the guest speaker and Sherry Ruble is the wor-

Trick-or-treat for UNICEF Delta United Methodist Church will once again collect donations for the United Nations International Children’s Fund annual Trick-or-

Treat for UNICEF drive. UNICEF helps the most disadvantaged children in 156 countries and territories around the world by providing immuniza-

Eckert Presbyterian plans annual fall events Eckert Presbyterian Church is planning its annual roast beef dinner Wednesday, Nov. 11, from 4 to 7 p.m. The menu includes

roast beef, mashed potatoes and gravy, vegetables, a roll and your choice of dessert, all for just $10 for adults and $5 for children 6-12.

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tions, education, health care, nutrition, clean water and sanitation — many of the things we take for granted every day. Five dollars a day can purchase five days of food for one child; $15 can mean a year of clean drinking water for one child. Help children around the world by donating to UNICEF at Delta United Methodist Church, P.O. Box 427, Delta, CO 81416.

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Good News Jail and Prison Ministry is changing lives through Jesus Christ. To support Chaplain Tim Bergstrom and the ministry at the Delta Correctional Center, a western barbecue fundraising banquet is planned Friday, Oct. 30. Come hear firsthand through special music and testimony how

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Church is located at 1250 Pioneer Road and can be reached by calling 8743847.

Stop by FBC for food, games, candy Delta First Baptist Church is hosting a Harvest Festival on Saturday, Oct. 31, from 5:30 to 8 p.m. at 1250 Pioneer Road in Delta. There will be game booths and opportunities for children to compete to win fabulous candy and prizes. A food court will offer sloppy joes, hamburgers, hot dogs and nachos as a fundraiser for the mission ministry.

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the gospel creates lasting changes in inmates’ lives. The event will be held at Crossroads Victory Church, 515 Hillcrest Drive, Montrose. The doors open at 6 p.m.; dinner will be served at 6:30 p.m. and costs $35 per person. For reservations or information, call 252-8110.

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day, Nov. 7. Lunch will be provided by the women of First Baptist Church. There is no charge, but a freewill offering will be taken. Delta First Baptist

Good News Ministry is changing lives

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ship leader. Special presentations will be given by Angie Kuzov, Jackie Schneider and Sherry Ruble. The event runs from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. Satur-

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October 28, 2015

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HAVEN HOUSE IS SEEKing a Case Manager and a Youth Director/Leader. Haven House is a faith-based non-profit that provides a Transitional Housing program for those that might otherwise be homeless, with a focus on families and a Child Development program for their children. The Case Manager is part of a team that runs the Transitional program that is designed to guide those we serve towards self-sufficiency. The Youth Director manages the Child Development program for their children designed to keep them in school, motivate them to excel and address behavioral issues. It is possible that one person could fill both roles, with an assistant. For more information and job descriptions please go to w w w. h a v e n h o u s e h o m e less.org. Qualifications: Degree in social work (Masters preferred), counseling, education or ministry (Youth Director position only) or a related profession, plus experience working with disadvantaged children and adults in a homeless shelter or the field of human services. A strong candidate is one that loves working with families to motivate and lead them to make a better life for themselves. Please send resumes or expressions of interest to havenhousejobs@gmail. com. (3x42) EXPERIENCED WINDOW, Roofing and Siding Installers wanted. Year-round work in Delta & Montrose Counties. Call (970) 874-3665. (2x43)

MARKETING GRAPHIC Designer. High Country News (HCN), a non-profit multimedia news outlet, seeks a part-time marketing graphic designer to create marketing, advertising and development department marketing materials for both print and digital platforms. Candidates should have a background in both marketing and graphic design, experience working on teams and the ability to work across digital and print platforms. This part-time position works out of HCN's office in Paonia, Colorado. To apply, send cover letter and resume jobs@hcn. org. HCN is an Equal Opportunity Employer committed to a diverse work force. (3x42)

Call 874-4421 for information.

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PUBLIC

RNS UP TO $45/HR! LPNS SERVICE up to $37.50/hr! CNAs up to $22.50/hr. Free gas, weekly pay! $2,000 Bonus! AACO Nursing Agency (800) 656THE DELTA COUNTY 4414 (1x43) 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 a great addition to your keep them current by calladvertising campaign. ing 874-4421.

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PUBLIC SERVICE 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. Luke's Episcopal Church, 5th & Palmer (back door). (tfnx3)

PUBLIC SERVICE WELCOME RETURNING Veterans, Post 9221 VFW meets at 5:00 p.m. on the 4th Thursday of each month in Cedaredge. To find out how to participate in promoting patriotism and assisting veterans, contact Wayne Hamrick, (970) 2501180. (tfnx23) ADVERTISE TODAY!

D2 Wednesday, October 28, 2015 PUBLIC SERVICE FREE DIAPERS FOR UP to one year! Pregnant women in Delta County can now get help to quit smoking and get something they can really use after their baby arrives — free diapers. Healthy moms have healthy babies. Enroll in the Baby & Me Tobacco Free program today. Contact the Delta County Health Department at 874-2165 or your local physician. (TFNx2) SUPPORT THE DELTA Public Library. Give a gently used book in the Downstairs Book Store. AARP DRIVER SAFETY Course. Save on insurance, keep up on newer traffic laws, learn defensive driving techniques. For details and schedule contact John Loring (970) 856-6924 or (970) 424-1778. HOTCHKISS-CRAWFORD Historical Museum. Winter hours, Saturdays 1-4 p.m. thru December 24. $3 admission or free to members. Come see our museum at 2nd & Hotchkiss Streets in Hotchkiss. 872-3780. (tfx44)

CLASSIFIEDS

PUBLIC SERVICE 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 Guthrie-Burch 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 non-perishable emergency food pantry. This is for the North Fork area. For information, call 527-6252. (tfx49)

CHECK OUT THE BOOK store at the library. You'll find a great selection of paperbacks at reasonable prices.

SAVE EYEGLASSES, OLD jewelry and silver or bits of gold and silver scraps. The Grand Odd Fellow Lodge is sending them to: New Eyes IF YOU LOVE BOOKS, for the Needy, 549 Millburn you will love the Downstairs Ave., Short Hills, NJ 07078 Bookstore in the basement or send them to: Gale Conger, Secretary of IOOF of the Delta Public Library. Lodge #116, 544 St. Hwy. NARCOTICS ANONY- 548, Delta, CO 81416. mous meets at 9th and Palmer, Delta, Mondays and THE AMERICAN RED Cross needs you. Become Fridays at 8 p.m. (tfnx5) one of the Red Cross volunBECAWS! DONATIONS teers who says, “We’ll Be Credit cards There, Because Help Can’t needed. accepted. Call 970-527- Wait!” Call your local Red 3350, or visit cawsonline. Cross Chapter at 970-242org. Delta County Citizens 4851 or 1-800-HELP NOW for Animal Welfare and for information on the difShelter (CAWS) ference you can make in someone’s life as a disaster DELTA FOOD PANTRY volunteer. ((TFNx4)) needs meals for Delta families who are temporar- DELTA HAS A BOOKily in need. Donations of store in the basement of non-perishable food may the library featuring gently be brought to 628 Meeker. used books and magazines. (tfx36) Come check it out! 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)

UNEMPLOYED? JOIN others for a time of networking, encouragement, and skill improvement. Latent Resources meets the first Thursday of each month at 6:30 at the Delta United Methodist Church (5th & Meeker). Attendants THERE IS A VFW MEETING and visitors are encouron the first Monday of each aged to dress professionmonth. At 6 p.m. there is ally and bring a note pad a potluck and the meeting and a willingness to learn is at 7 p.m. at the IOOF and be challenged. Find us Hall, 860 Hwy 92, Delta. on facebook.com & twitFor further information, ter.com - search "Latent call 874-8172 Jim Baker, Resources", or call James Quartermaster. (tfx12) at 970-901-9463. BECAWS! ADOPT A DOG HEALTHY BABIES START or cat today. Call 970-527- with early prenatal care. 3350, or visit cawsonline. Delta County Health org. Delta County Citizens Department. Offers access for Animal Welfare and to immediate, temporary Shelter (CAWS) Medicaid for pregnant SELL THAT BOAT FAST women who qualify. 874in the DCI Classifieds. Call 2165. (tfx25) 874-4421. ADVERTISE! 874-4421

PUBLIC SERVICE BECAWS! DISCOUNT spay and neuter coupons available. Call 970-5273350, or visit cawsonline. org. Delta County Citizens for Animal Welfare and Shelter (CAWS) 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, confidential assistance. Call 1800-QUIT-NOW. (TFNx28). FAMILIES BELIEVING in families: Tandem Families is an innovative, private non-profit mentoring program providing services for at-risk children of Delta and Mont-rose counties. Anyone interested in volunteering their services or donating usable items should call 874-3000 or 2527445. (TFNx8) THE AMERICAN LEGION Post 97 Paonia is seeking the names and addresses of all persons currently serving on active duty in the military from the North Fork Valley in order to contact them and show our support. Send addresses to American Legion Post 97, PO Box 277, Paonia, CO 81428 or call 527-6552. PARENTS FREE! INFORMation and referrals to licensed child care providers, call Bright Futures Child Care Resource and Referral, 1-877-728-5613. (TFNx4) SUPPORT THE DELTA Public Library. Give a gently used book in the Downstairs Book Store. FOSTER GRANDPARENT Program enriches the lives of senior volunteers while improving the education of children with special needs. Volunteers, 55 and older, needed to assist in class rooms tutoring and mentoring children. Low-income volunteers may qualify for a stipend. Teachers in Delta area class rooms request "Grandparents" to come in and work with students who need the extra help to achieve their best. For information on how you can use your talents to help kids call Tanya at 263-9091. (tfx7)

PUBLIC SERVICE BECAWS! VOLUNTEERS needed. Call 970-527-3350, or visit cawsonline.org. Delta County Citizens for Animal Welfare and Shelter (CAWS) PLEASE HELP! VOLUNteers needed to help get new animal shelter in Delta off the ground. We need temporary or long term foster homes, foot soldiers, light research, paperwork and phone people. Many hands make light work. Thank you! Another Chance Critter Haven. 874-9011.

PUBLIC SERVICE

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PUBLIC SERVICE

THE DELTA COUNTY Democratic Party invites you to visit their Facebook page for announcements, information and intelligent discussion of issues. You are not alone! Contact www.facebook.com/pages/ CO-Delta-County-Democrat s/109082339170167

IF YOU THINK YOU have a drinking problem... Alcoholics Anonymous can help. There are weekly AA meetings throughout the North Fork area and beyond. For meeting times and locations call AA at DEDUCT IT FROM YOUR 970-245-9649 or 888-333taxes! Donations of: pet 9649. Or go to the website food, old blankets, tow- www.aa-westerncolorado. els, kennels, carriers, pet org. Alcoholics Anonymous beds or dishes, and money can help! always appreciated. Another Chance Critter Haven. 874- AL-ANON MEETINGS BY 9011. 501 (c) (3) day of week. Sunday: Woman's Al-Anon in JOIN FORCES WITH US! Montrose 3:30 p.m., All Animal lovers rescue Saints Anglican Church, groups, shelters: let's band 2057 S. Townsend, contogether and get a county- tact Peggy, (970) 964wide shelter built! We 4970. Monday: Al-Anon are here for the animals. in Hotchkiss 6:30 p.m., Another Chance Critter Methodist Church, 285 N. Haven. 874-9011. 2nd, contact Kay, (970) 208BECAWS! DOG/CAT 5257 or Chris, (970) 527foster families needed. Call 3366. Monday: Al-Anon in 970-527-3350, or visit caw- Montrose 7:00 p.m., First sonline.org. Delta County Presbyterian Church, 1840 Citizens for Animal Welfare E. Niagara, contact Diane, (970) 964-4417. Tuesday: and Shelter (CAWS) Women's Al-Anon in Eckert COLORADO QUITLINE IS 1:00 p.m., 13596 Hwy. 65, a free, confidential tele- contact Sandy, (970) 856phone coaching service 7348. Tuesday: Al-Anon in for anyone calling from a Delta 7:30 p.m., St. Luke Colorado area code. With Episcopal Church, 145 W. QuitLine, tobacco users 5th St., contact Mark, (970) can receive free supplies of 874-8965 or Elizabeth, (970) the nicotine patch as they 874-9832. Tuesday: Alateen work with trained coaches in Delta 7:30 p.m., St. Luke's who create a personalized Episcopal Church, 145 W. quit plan just for them. To 5th St., contact Elizabeth, contact the QuitLine, call 1- (970) 874-9832 or Shirley, 800-QUIT-NOW (1-800-784- (970) 323-5067. Wednesday: 8669) or visit www.coquit- Al-Anon in Paonia 7:00 p.m., line.org. United Methodist Church, 3rd and Onarga, contact BECAWS! DO YOU HAVE Kay, (970) 208-5257 or Chris, an animal rescue suc- (970) 527-3366. Thursday: cess story to share? Call Al-Anon in Montrose 12:00 970-527-3350, or email p.m., First Presbyterian rescuemagazine@gmail. Church, 1840 E. Niagara, com. Delta County Citizens contact Diane, (970) 964for Animal Welfare and 4417. Thursday: Al-Anon in Shelter (CAWS) Cedaredge 8 p.m., Wick Hall BECAWS! DONATION behind First Baptist Church, items needed for Barkin' 370 W. Main, contact Vicki, (tfnx16) Bargains Thrift Store in (970)589-9290. Paonia. Call 970-527-5111. Delta County Citizens for HUNGRY? PLEASE JOIN Animal Welfare and Shelter us for a free meal. Tuesdays, (CAWS) 5:30 - 7 p.m., and Saturdays ALZHEIMER'S ASSO- 11:30 a.m. - 1:30 p.m. Served ciation Caregivers' Support at Westminster Hall, 135 E. Group, Cory/Austin. All 4th St., Delta, across from Saints Lutheran Church, the post office. No income 20101 Deer Creek Road. restrictions - if you're hunLast Wednesday of every gry, please feel free to join us. For questions, to donate month, 1 p.m. or to volunteer, please call ALZHEIMER'S ASSOC- the Abraham Connection, iation Caregivers' Support (970) 773-8290. Group, Delta. Hospice and — FREE Palliative Care of Western PARENTS Colorado, Grand Mesa information and referrals Oncology Center, 1501 E. for licensed child care pro3rd Street, Tuesdays at 2 viders. Call Bright Futures Child Care Resource & p.m. Referral at 877-728-5613. DO YOU HAVE A HOUSE (TFNx1) or apartment for rent? Get results through the DCI GET QUICK RESULTS, advertise in the DCI ClasClassifieds. sifieds. Call today 8744421.

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Delta County Independent

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MISC.

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) BECAWS! SHOP BARKIN' Bargains Thrift Store in Paonia. All proceeds to to CAWS. Call 970-527-5111. Delta County Citizens for Animal Welfare and Shelter (CAWS) BOOKS MAKE GREAT stocking stuffers. Find books at great prices in the basement of the Delta Public Library.

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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. HELP WANTED MISCELLANEOUS RN’s up to $45/hr SAWMILLS from only $4397.00LPN’s up to $37.50/hr MAKE & SAVE MONEY with CNA’s up to $22.50/hr your own bandmill- Cut lumber any Free gas/weekly pay dimension. In stock ready to ship! $2000 Bonus FREE Info/DVD: AACO Nursing Agency www.NorwoodSawmills.com 1-800-656-4414 Ext. 11 1-800-578-1363 ext.300N SYNC2 MEDIA Buy a 25-word statewide classiﬁed line ad in newspapers across the state of Colorado for just $350 per week. Ask about our Frequency Discounts. Contact this newspaper or call SYNC2 Media, 303-571-5117

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MOVING? CHANGING YOUR ADDRESS? Please give the Delta County Independent 10 days’ notice — PO Box 809, Delta CO 81416 970-874-4421

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PUBLIC NOTICES

Delta County Independent

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Wednesday, October 28, 2015

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D4 Wednesday, October 28, 2015

LOCAL NEWS

Delta County Independent

What’s happening at your library? The Delta County Libraries offer many educational and entertaining activities and events for you and your family to enjoy. If you want to know what else your library is offering, please contact the library or visit the Delta County Libraries website at www.delta libraries.org. Check out these programs: Cedaredge Maker Space. Come into the Cedaredge branch and paint a face on a gourd for Halloween or just for fun! One per patron during the month of October. This is an ongoing event for all ages. Genealogy. Who’s Who in Whoville.....find out who you really are. Friday, Nov. 6, at 10:30 a.m. Teen Scene. Theme: “T-Shirt to Tote Bag.” Bring your old favorite T-shirt and grab a friend while you’re at it! No sewing necessary. Snacks provided. Friday, Nov. 6, at 4 p.m.

Cedaredge Friends Program. Richard Numamaker presents “The Plight of the Honey Bee.” An entomologist and local vineyard owner speaks to us about pollination, bees, importance of bees to agriculture, and what we can do to help honey bees and other insect pollinators. Thursday, Nov. 12, at 2 p.m. Computer Class. Internet 101 Learn the basics on using the Internet — how to search, save, copy, paste, navigate and stay safe on the Internet. Friday, Nov. 13, at 10:30 a.m. Crawford Pumpkin Decorating. Calling all pumpkins! It is time to become jack-o-lanterns! Thursday, Oct. 29, at 3 p.m. Cookbook Club. Discover new recipes, sample new foods, and enjoy eating and chatting with a fun group. This month’s theme will be pumpkins — you decide what to do with them! Thursday, Nov. 5, at 12:30 p.m.

gently used books for the holidays! Friday, November 13, 5:30-8:00 p.m. and Saturday, Nov. 14, 9 a.m. to noon. Movie. Enjoy the classic movie based on her first novel before a discussion about Harper Lee. Light refreshments will be provided. Saturday, Nov. 14, at 10 a.m. Discussion at 1:30 p.m. NaNoWriMo Write In. Writing a novel? Need dedicated time and space to meet the NaNoWriMo goal of 50,000 words? Join other writers in the Delta area for a write-in at the Delta Library every Tuesday in November. Bring a light snack to share. Tuesdays in November at 5:30 p.m. Hotchkiss Pumpkin Recipe Exchange. Share your favorite pumpkin recipes for the month of October. Bring your recipes to the Hotchkiss Library and add new recipes to your collection. Sugar Skulls for Day of the Dead. Join the

Delta Wild West Ghosts - Paranormal Experiences. Acclaimed authors Mark and Kym Todd tell haunting tales about their paranormal experiences. Experience sound clips and photos of their investigations from local haunted locations. There will be a short presentation and then a Q & A session with the authors. Saturday, Oct. 31, at 1 p.m. Magic the Gathering Tournament. Come play Magic with your friends the first Saturday of every month. Saturday, Nov. 7, at 10 a.m. Minecraft Edu Club. Mine, craft, survive (and maybe learn a little) in this fun and educational version of the popular game! Limited spaces are available for this program. Saturday, Nov. 7, at 11 a.m. Book Sale. Join us at the Altrusa Sugar Plum Festival Book Sale. Friends of the Delta Library will be selling

Hotchkiss Library and The Church of Art and learn about the cultural tradition of Day of the Dead. Discover the traditions of this celebration and make sugar skulls to take home. All ages welcome, but children under the age of 8 should be accompanied by an adult. Thursday, Oct. 29, at 4 p.m. Call the Hotchkiss library for more information, 399-7781. Seed Sorting Party. Calling all volunteers, seed library supporters, and seed sorting enthusiasts. Come help the seed library get ready for the 2016 spring season. We need your help sorting, organizing and labeling seeds for this coming gardening season. Join us at Memorial Hall for an evening of seed organizing, good company and tasty treats. Tuesday, Nov. 10. Open house from 4-6 p.m. Knitting Group. Join us for ideas, help and good company. Anyone is welcome to join. Wednes-

days at 4 p.m. Paonia Tween & Teen Halloween Movie. Watch a chilling, thrilling Halloween movie! Friday, Oct. 30, at 3:30 p.m. Teen and Tween Program. Fall games and a craft. Friday, Nov. 6, at 4 p.m. Evening Book Club. This month’s book club selection is “Round House” by Louise Erdrich. Copies of the book are available for checkout from the library. Tuesday, Nov. 10, at 6:30 p.m. Storytelling: Home for the Holidays. Paonia Library hosts another great evening of storytelling in the North Fork Valley (carrying on the tradition of events previously held at the Blue Sage). Local raconteurs, including ex-pat Marty Durlin, will relate experiences comic/tragic centered on the joys and disasters that make this time of the year so special — and emotional. Tuesday, Nov. 10, at 7 p.m.

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SERVICE DIRECTORY

Delta County Independent

Wednesday, October 28, 2015

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D8 Wednesday, October 28, 2015

BACK PAGE

Delta County Independent

B A C K P A G E

Katmandu ~ a labor of love

BY ERIC GOOLD

Photos by Eric Goold

Pat Gwinn stands with Oscar at Katmandu, a foster facility for the Black Canyon Animal Sanctuary. Gwinn and founder Debbie Faulkner work together to provide animal rescue services for Delta County and beyond. Gwinn, a cat person, currently has 11 animals at Katmandu. They are all up for adoption.

Staff Writer

here are two types of people in this world, we’ve all heard — those who love dogs and those who love cats. Count Pat Gwinn among the latter. Just don’t ask her to explain why. “I don’t know!” Gwinn said last Thursday morning, clutching an orange and white furball named Oscar in the playroom at Katmandu, Gwinn’s foster cat shelter on Matthews Lane in Paonia. “I’ll tell you one thing, I like dogs, but I don’t like the pack mentality,” she said, giving Oscar a scratch behind the ears. “Cats are just kind of low-key; they’re easy to deal with. Dogs love you no matter what and cats have to control everything. I like their manner. They sleep all the time, you can’t argue with that.” Gwinn and her husband, local musician Mike Gwinn, created the facility in 2010, and it quickly became a labor of love for both of them. “I didn’t go out and seek to

Pat Gwinn coaxes Snowball out of her cozy bed. Snowball’s littermate, Latte, is also a resident of Katmandu.

do this,” she said. “I guess it’s like life. You can’t just have your little toe in the water. At some point you’re either in, or you’re out.” A double-door air lock separates the cat room from the rest of the converted barn, which originally was a fruit packing shed operated by the Lund family. “When we came out from California, I was like, ‘What am I gonna do with this stupid barn?’ and now, well, the barn is full!” Gwinn laughed. Entering the playroom is like walking into the cat house in a zoo. “So what we have is what we call a communal living environment,” Gwinn said as the residents of Katmandu circled around her feet and meowed discontent at having their sleep disrupted on a rainy morning. “Everybody’s got their own little area. I’ve got heating pads for everybody, in their little stations,” Gwinn said. An open window led to a screened-in porch where two cats, a grey named Margot and a black and white beauty name Minnie, looked skeptically at the human intruders. “They can go out if they want. They don’t like the rain, but they’ll sit out there in the snow,” Gwinn said. Katmandu has 11 feline residents right now. All of the cats are up for adoption, but not all of them will get adopted. “Some of them are special needs cats,” Gwinn said. “Oscar, he’s a wonderful cat, but he has this cat herpes in his eye, which I guess is not a big deal, but it scares some people. It’s very common.” Old Fannie Flagg, an affectionate grey and white kitty who bumps into your feet with her head to get your attention, is diabetic. Gwinn

Minnie (black and white) and Margot show off the outdoor living quarters at Katmandu. Many of the cats enjoy staying out there when it snows, but not when it rains, as was the case during this picture. Cats can move in and outside freely at the foster facility.

gives her insulin shots and accepts her with love just like she does with all the other cats. The foster facility is the culmination of efforts that began in 2003, when the Gwinns moved to the North Fork Valley from California. “Then in 2004, I approached Debbie Faulkner and asked what can I do to help, and I started out by collecting food for the feral cats,” Gwinn said. “So I’ve had a relationship with Debbie since that time.” Faulkner, definitely one of the dog lovers of this world, started the Black Canyon Animal Sanctuary in 2009 on a 40-acre ranch in Crawford. Readers of the Back Page can anticipate a future story about Faulkner and the Sanctuary. “Debbie has been doing animal rescue for 35 or 40 years,” Gwinn said. “So in 2010, after she started her sanctuary, I went to her and said, ‘You know, I’d like to foster cats for you.’ She has the dogs, and we have the cats.” Gwinn is what is called a giant foster for the Black Canyon Animal Sanctuary. “I’m a foster facility for the Sanctuary,” Gwinn said. “People think that I’m on my own. The way it works is that I do have a separate license from the State of Colorado, and I have a separate facility. I just gave myself the name Katmandu because it sounded kind of cute.” Both Gwinn and Faulkner offer rescue, foster and adoption options. All of the animals can be located on Petfinder. “We partner with the Delta County Humane Society, we partner with Surface Creek and Cedaredge, we swap out with them all of the time,” Gwinn said. “And we’re Petco partners in Montrose. We take advantage of their adoption center.” Gwinn started out collecting food for feral cats, then her role expanded incrementally after partnering with Faulkner. “I started out by fostering them in my house, and my husband said, ‘Well let’s just build this room,’” Gwinn said. “My husband is a cat person, too. I didn’t know that when I married him, but I lucked out. A musician and a cat person all in one shot!” The facility is non-profit, all volunteer and no one earns a salary. “We depend on adoption fees and donations to keep our doors open,” Gwinn said. “The majority of our money goes to vet care. I pay for the food and the litter for my kitties. It’s just my contribution.” The calls from people looking to find a cat, or to give one away, keep coming. “I get all kinds of calls. I take everything on a call-bycall basis,” Gwinn said. “We

Margot (left) and Oscar react in their own ways to a visitor in their space. The cats can move around freely in their communal living home. have no county shelter, we have no city shelter, we have nothing in the way of government, city funding.” Stray dogs are more visible, but cats that have simply been turned out and are somewhere on the feral scale vastly outnumber loose dogs, especially in the Paonia area. “The feral cat problem around here is just horrible, and there isn’t a whole lot people can do outside of spaying and neutering their animals,” Gwinn said. “People just turn cats out, and they’re free-roaming. Of course they start multiplying; one female cat can have three litters in a season. And then six months later, those three litters are starting all over.” Rescue, foster and adoption efforts have made a difference. “I do pretty good on adoptions,” Gwinn said. “We work with Petfinder online, and the Petco adoption center is fantastic — you’ve got a captive audience coming in and out of there all day long.” It’s easy to get attached to her cats, but this genuine cat person hopes that they’ll get adopted. “I do get attached to them, but I have a mindset,” Gwinn said. “I’m just kind of a stop-

over on their way to a permanent home. I love my cats, and I really like what I do. It’s difficult, but there’s nothing in life that’s worthwhile that isn’t difficult. There’s a home for every cat, it just doesn’t happen overnight. That’s why I have to look at the big picture.”

Old Fannie Flagg, one of the most affectionate residents of Katmandu, checks things out and looks for love. If the cats don’t ﬁnd adopted homes, Gwinn keeps them at Katmandu and provides a good lifestyle for them.

Cordelia oversees his empire at Katmandu. All of the cats at the foster facility are up for adoption.