Delta County Independent, Nov. 18, 2015 by Delta County Independent

NORTH FORK TIMES

SURFACE CREEK NEWS

MAKING A DIFFERENCE Hotchkiss chamber pays tribute to community leaders, B1

SPORTS

TOP-NOTCH DELIVERY

COMPETITION HEATS UP

Cedaredge postal carrier earns top state honor, C1

Delta, Paonia football teams post convincing wins at home, B5

DELTA COUNTY

NOVEMBER 18, 2015 VOL. 132, NO. 46

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INDEPENDENT

www.deltacountyindependent.com

Overprescribing lands docs in prison BY PAT SUNDERLAND Managing Editor

Dr. Sam Jahani, 52, faces up to four years in prison after pleading guilty to a single charge of conspiracy (controlled substance violations, health care fraud violations and/or money laundering violations). Jahani was initially charged with multiple, individual counts of those numerous violations, and was accused of causing the deaths of three patients through the practice of overprescribing. He will be sentenced in U.S. District Court on Feb. 8. The federal government is recommending two years’ imprisonment. The plea agreement lays out the government’s case: Dr. Jahani opened a medical office in Delta in 2003, and an urgent care clinic in Montrose in 2005. As the patient base grew, Dr. Jahani expanded his business. In November 2007, he hired Dr. Eric Peper. Many patients traveled from Grand Junction to Delta to obtain, and were prescribed, scheduled controlled substances, so Dr. Jahani opened a third clinic in Grand Junction in November 2008. The clinics closed shortly after search warrants were served on the businesses and residences of Drs. Jahani and Peper on Oct. 14, 2009. Prior to obtaining the search warrants, federal agents conducted numerous interviews of health care professionals, former employees, patients and family members. Pharmacists reported that Drs. Jahani and Peper were prescribing large quantities of powerful controlled substances to patients. Some pharmacists indicated they could not keep

controlled drugs such as oxycodone in stock because of the demand by Jahani and Peper patients. In addition, many of these patients were paying cash for their prescriptions. Some pharmacists refused to fill the prescriptions; others called the doctors to question prescriptions. Emergency department personnel and jail doctors reported numerous Jahani and Peper patients on high levels of narcotics, making it difficult to treat them. Members of the community complained to law enforcement that their loved ones were being overprescribed and could not function due to prescriptions obtained from Drs. Jahani and Peper. A Drug Enforcement Agency (DEA) investigation Photo by Pat Sunderland concluded that Dr. Jahani Jerry Allen discusses the unique seed mix used to create a cover crop on a ﬁeld in the Pea and Dr. Peper’s actions were Green area. Producers are encouraged to mix their own “cocktails” to address speciﬁc JAHANI TO A3 issues.

Cover crops build soil health BY PAT SUNDERLAND Managing Editor

For five years, Ahlberg Farms has been disking under corn stalks and onion tops soon after harvest, then reseeding with a unique blend of seed mixes to produce a cover crop that provides forage for livestock and nourishes the soil. The practice is one that has many benefits, according to the experts on the Uncompahgre Soil Health Team. Last week team members hosted a tour of six farms that are employing cover crops to increase organic matter, increase nutrient cycling, suppress weeds, reduce soil

Cattlemen offer $5,000 reward BY PAT SUNDERLAND Managing Editor

The Colorado Cattlemen’s Association and Delta County Livestock Association are joining forces in search of the individual or individuals who have shot calves to death in the Black Mesa grazing allotment. Since late September, three dead calves have been discovered, two with small caliber bullet holes and one shot by a large caliber rifle. Placement of trail cams nearby led to the speculation that perhaps unscrupulous hunters were killing the calves and leaving their carcasses as bear bait, but that theory appears to be unfounded. Crawford area rancher Danny Todd says the owner of the trail cam has been identified and while he admits placing the camera near the carcasses,

INDEX

Accent ........................... A4 Activities ....................... A7 Agriculture .....................C6 Back Page ................... D8 Business ........................ A8 Church ........................... D4 Classifieds .................. D1-2 Editorial ......................... A2 Health & Fitness .........C4-5 Legals ............................ D3 North Fork Times ........B1-4 Obituaries ......................B8 School Zone .................. A5 Sports ..........................B5-7 Surface Creek News ...C1-3 TV Listings ................. D5-6

he denies any involvement in their deaths. It is not illegal to place a trail cam on public land near a carcass to capture images of game in the area. Since the calves were located just off roadways, the cattlemen believe the perpetrator may be a malicious individual out to cause trouble. No meat has been taken, as was the case in an incident earlier this summer on Grand Mesa. The $5,000 reward offered by the cattlemen is in addition to the $1,000 offered by CrimeStoppers for information leading to the arrest and conviction of the perpetrators. Anyone with information is asked to call the Delta County Sheriff ’s Office at 874-2000 or CrimeStoppers at 874-8810, if you wish to remain anonymous.

compaction, provide forage for livestock, provide cover for wildlife, and potentially break disease and pest cycles. The team points to the four practices that promote soil health: • Keep the soil covered for as long as possible. • Minimize soil disturbance. • Keep a living plant on/in the soil throughout the year (or as long as possible). • Diversify the types of plants growing on the field through crop rotations and cover crops. Three out of four of those practices involve cover crops, described as annual and semiannual plants grown for seasonal vegetative cover as part of a planned rotation to provide soil health benefits. There are also benefits to the principle cash crop, as evidenced by the higher yields, quicker maturity and larger onions/ears of corn the Ahlbergs have been harvesting since they began the practice of planting cover crops. Zach Ahlberg has refined the seed mixture over the years. His most recent mixture consists of triticale, sorghum, sudangrass, hairy vetch, Austrian pea, purple top turnip and Daikon radishes. As the cover crop matures, cows are let out to graze on the nutrient-rich mixture. Their droppings further add to the organic mix in the soil. Adding organic matter to build carbon is the key to soil health, said Katie Alexander, a soil conservationist with the National Resource Conservation Service. Steve Woodis, NRCS biologist, points to the “cottage cheese” quality of the soil, referring to the loose soil structure that results when deep-rooted plants like radishes, canola and some annual

grasses are planted. These plants can reduce the need for mechanical deep ripping. Another benefit, said Dave Dearstyne, is that the soil holds moisture better than a fallow field. The composition of the cover crop is specific to the individual need, and can change each year to address common issues such as weed control, disease control or nitrogen balance. The cost of the seed is often covered by the grazing value, noted Jerry Allen of the Shavano Conservation District. Increased yields also make

cover crops worthwhile. The goal of the Uncompahgre Soil Health Team is to help producers maximize soil health by increasing organic matter through cover crops, green manure, grazing, compost, entomology and other sustainable practices. The team also helps put on the annual Western Slope Soil Health Conference, which will be held Feb. 11-12 at the Delta Center for the Performing Arts and Education. More information can be found at www.westerncoloradosoil health.com.

Challenges to coal industry persist BY PAT SUNDERLAND Managing Editor

The coal industry remains in a period of distress due to strict governmental regulations, oversupply in the global coal market, increased competition from natural gas, and low coal demand and prices, among other factors. This management analysis has led Arch Coal to warn that a significant financial restructuring will be required for the publicly traded company to operate as a going concern over the long term. Underscoring the immediacy of action is a reported net loss of $2 billion for the quarter ending Sept. 30. Arch Coal operates coal mines in Colorado, Wyoming, Illinois, West Virginia, Kentucky, Virginia and Maryland. It is the owner of West Elk Mine, the only local mine operating at full capacity. It employs about 350 coal miners. A filing with the Securities

and Exchange Commission warns that it may be necessary to file a voluntary petition for relief under Chapter 11 of the U.S. Bankruptcy Code to restructure debt obligations. On a positive note, Arch delivered an exceptionally strong operational performance during the quarter, according to John W. Eaves, Arch’s chairman and chief executive officer. “Our results reflect the actions we have taken to respond to the challenging market environment, including reducing costs and enhancing efficiency across the company. Thanks to the efforts of our skilled employees, we increased cash margins in each of our three operating regions and continued to build on our industry-leading safety and environmental stewardship records. Despite these efforts, however, the difficult conditions impacting the coal industry persist, and we expect they will continue throughout 2016.”

Meet the finalists

Community dinner

Road work planned

Community members are invited to meet the four finalists for Delta city manager Monday, Nov. 23. A reception will be held at Bill Heddles Recreation Center from 5:30 to 7 p.m. The four finalists are Don Gaeddert of Larned, Kan., Dan Hamsmith of Parker, George Korthauer of Petoskey, Mich., and David Torgler of Hayden. They were selected from a group of 46 applicants. The candidates will be in town Monday and Tuesday for interviews with panels comprised of city council members and city department heads.

A community Thanksgiving dinner will be hosted by Delta Christian Church, 795 1600 Road, on Thursday, Nov. 26. Meals will be served from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. Deliveries will be made from 10 to 11 a.m., and can be requested by calling Michael Frazier at 270-2524 or Carrie Frazier at 260-1945. Delta Elks Lodge is providing the turkeys and potatoes. The remaining food items are being donated and prepared by members of Delta Christian Church, First Baptist Church of Delta and Calvary Baptist Church.

The Grand Mesa, Uncompahgre and Gunnison National Forests have contracted for work to occur on the Lands’ End Road from the forest boundary for 9.3 miles, up to the boulder fields. The work will improve the sight distance and reduce brushy vegetation for 20 feet on each side. Weather depending, work will take place Nov. 16-Dec. 15, six days a week. The Lands’ End Road will remain open to the public until the seasonal closure on Dec. 1. Citizens are asked to use caution and slow their speed for contractor and public safety.

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OPINION

LETTERS

Tough oil/gas regulations serve joint interests

Veterans deserve more than lip service Dear Editor: Truly responsible individuals (most actually consider themselves as such) who incur obligations should be not only willing, but should feel themselves obligated to face up to them. That is true of everything, even that which they incurred to those who served in the military. And, in doing so, they should not be deceived into believing that in doing so that they are in any way “charitable” or engaging in charity work. Today we see campaigns to help veterans in need, especially the wounded and/or disabled. Two of those are the Wounded Warrior Project and the other

for Disabled American Veterans. While those operating those organizations, as well as those who donate to them with “only $19 a month or 63 cents a day,” while well intended, they are allowing others to shift their own obligations and responsibilities onto the backs of others. That these veterans are in need of assistance (in particular the disabled ones) is not in question. However, that is everyone’s responsibility, and not just those who can or want to donate. Neither is doing so at all charitable. Some of us like to compare issues and, in this case, we look at members of the House

We all bleed red Dear Editor: With all the racial hate and controversy going on in this country, I felt this might be a good time to share some thoughts that came to me which I titled “The Earthly Play”: God is the main character in this play on earth and throughout the universe; without the red blood shed by Jesus there would be no one freed from sin regardless of skin color. We all bleed red. No

one, and I mean no one, has a choice where, when or what color their skin will be when they are born. You are, however, given a choice to love Him (God) and share His love with all the characters in this play. Another thought about the political race: I think it is time to trim the Bushes and let the Clintons go bankrupt. Alice M. Fowler Cedaredge

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Delta County Independent

of Representatives, now under a so-called “Freedom Caucus.” Their calendar is set up such that they will be “in session” slightly over 100 days. (Being in session, by the way, does not mean that they even have to show up — which many don’t). Some of us would ask the following: “What are they doing during the remaining 265 days?” Should they not be present, and actually working at their job and meeting their obligations and responsibilities to the people, many of those veterans. Oh, those politicians will show up at every event which presents them with an opportunity to “thank” veterans; i.e. “How patriotic and wonderful you were and thank you, thank you!” Those are just words and their own actions belie their words. They will go back to Washington and do everything they possibly can to cut the Veterans Administration’s budget, or condemn the entire organization for its failings, then use that to cut the budget even further. One of the complaints we frequently hear from veterans (among others) is that others don’t listen. In that conclusion I concur. There is also no problem with “helping others out,” in this case veterans. However, those truly concerned about veterans (and veterans themselves) should not restrict themselves to raising funds to “help out” but get in the face of those politicians who, while they give lip service to veterans and their service, will do everything they can to avoid doing what needs doing — most of it by them. If there is an example of “empty words,” what these so-called “conservatives” preach, then looking at what they actually do, this is one of them. Robert I Laitres Delta

Dear Editor: These comments were submitted to the Colorado Oil and Gas Conservation Commission, as it conducts hearings on proposed rules addressing oil and gas development near residential areas: Energy development is not abstract to me. I have lived for 41 years within 10 miles of three large underground coal mines that until recently employed 1,000 miners and produced 1.5 percent of the nation’s coal. For 40 years, I heated my house with coal from those mines. Trains carrying that coal to market pass within 0.7 miles of my house. Tragically, those mines are now in terminal decline. More than half of the jobs are gone, with the rest doomed by the enormous changes in fossil fuel energy production and use. Thanks to intense federal and state regulation, coal mines are excellent neighbors. For over a century, coal mining in my North Fork Valley has not just coexisted with our rural area and public lands, but enhanced them. As a result, we supported the mines and we mourn their passing. By comparison, oil and gas extraction is so lightly regulated as to not be worthy of the word. As a result, the industry is a threat to the life, limb and health of its workforce and a threat to the physical and mental health of those of us who have the tragic misfortune to live near this rogue industry. It imposes heavy truck traffic on our lightly constructed roads and bridges, it destroys the tranquility and cleanliness of residential areas with industrial activity, and it converts our federal lands into a single, sprawling, industrialized, ugly-beyond-description landscape. Living in rural areas is not easy. Jobs are few and usually low paid. As a group, we tend to be older, poorer and less well educated than urban and suburban people. Our major compensation for this difficult life is the beauty and recreation

potential of the federal lands we live among. But now our federal lands are threatened by industrialization. These lands will be impossible to reclaim not just in my lifetime, but in my grandchildren’s lifetime. Drilling, given present regulations, makes the ruling theme of federal lands — “multiple use” — a joke. You can graze and log and develop water and mine coal underground without violating the principle of multiple use. But oil and gas production represents the expropriation of the land from all other users. These lands are not just important and valuable to those of us who live among them. People come from around the country and world to hunt and fish and gawk at the mountains. The snowmelt coming off the central Rockies irrigates land that produces fruit, grapes, vegetable and grains. Cattle and sheep graze the mountainsides in the warmer months. We are an amazingly productive place. All this is threatened by the massive industrialization this industry’s present way of operating requires. The Colorado Oil and Gas Conservation Commission is charged by law with the twin fiduciary duties of encouraging the industry and protecting communities and the environment from industry abuses. Instead of balancing its responsibilities, the commission has become a captive creature of the industry. The irony is that this captivity is causing a reaction that tough but reasonable regulation could avoid. By ignoring the public health and welfare and by failing to protect the wildlands that overlay oil and gas deposits, the COGCC is dooming the industry it seeks to protect. Regulations that allow drill pads to be placed next to schoolyards, for example, or close to residential areas, or in beautiful wild landscapes guarantee unending opposition from local and eventually national con-

stituencies. If these nonregulatory regulations are made final, the Commission will have set the stage for a fight-to-thedeath. Either the industry will destroy our rural areas by making this a barren and unproductive place (except for liquid and gaseous Btu’s), or we will destroy it. The commission will have given us no alternative. Governor Hickenlooper, a proponent of drilling, saw this unhealthy fight coming, and tried to head it off by appointing a Task Force to reach a compromise. The Governor’s Task Force failed and judging by its draft regulations, now the Commission has failed. We will soon be back fighting it out through referenda at election time. As fate would have it, the industry would have been in better shape if the governor had let the battle go forward last year, when the industry was economically strong and many jobs depended on it. Now the industry has gone bust; gas and oil prices are flat and according to the financial futures market likely to remain so for the foreseeable future. Communities threatened by future drilling and communities already damaged by drilling and now economically abandoned by the industry both have reason to be receptive to strong regulation or outright bans. If the commission could understand that tough regulations are in the joint interests of both the industry and the public, it still has time to respond to citizen comments and produce regulations that give local government the power to site pads, to phase in the pace of drilling, to keep drill pads long distances from schools and residences, and so on. Unless the commission imposes such regulations, it is going to doom the industry. Powerful though the commission may be, it cannot protect the oil and gas industry from an enraged public. Ed Marston Paonia

Law enforcement blotter ��

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From the Delta Nov. 10: Police Department: A 17-year-old female of Eckert was issued a Nov. 7: ticket for alleged failure Jose B. Suazo, 41, of to yield right of way from Delta was issued a tick- a stop sign after being et for alleged disobeyed involved in a two-vehicle a red signal light after crash at E. 3rd Street being involved in a two- and Riley Lane. No injuvehicle crash on Highway ries were reported or 92 at Stafford Lane. One observed. Both vehicles driver was transported were driven from the to Delta County Memo- scene. rial Hospital by the Delta Nov. 11: County Ambulance DisOctavio Rodriguez, trict with unknown inju- 24, of Delta was issued ries. Both vehicles were a ticket for alleged driving a motor vehicle while towed from the scene. Nov. 9: license cancelled/denied. Aaron T. Grange, 27, of Nov. 12: Delta was issued a ticket Richard T. Farabee, for alleged child abuse. 26, of Lehi, Utah, was Lionel G. Cruz-Vil- issued a ticket for alleged lalobos, 33, of Montrose careless driving and drivwas arrested and jailed ing a motor vehicle while for alleged possession of license suspended after a Schedule II controlled being involved in a twosubstance and placed on vehicle crash on Highway parole hold. 50 at 1600 Road. Minor James R. Wich, 30, of injuries were reported. Montrose was issued a Both vehicles were towed ticket for alleged care- from the scene. less driving after being Nov. 14: Derrick L. West, 20, of involved in a two-vehicle crash on Highway 50 at Delta was issued a ticket Pioneer Road. One driver for alleged unlawful acts was transported to Delta and destruction of propCounty Memorial Hospi- erty. tal by the Delta County Nov. 15: Nicholas P. Rios, 29, of Ambulance District with unknown injuries. One Delta was arrested and vehicle was towed from jailed for alleged DUI, DUI per se, speeding (71 the scene.

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. • (970) 874-4421 editor@deltacountyindependent.com ads@deltacountyindependent.com

in a 40), careless driving and prohibited use of a firearm after being involved in a one-vehicle minor crash on Highway 50 at 1550 Road. Spencer D.L. Bachman, 26, of Delta was arrested and jailed for alleged violation of a protection order. Crystal L. Church, 32, of Delta was issued a ticket for alleged running at large prohibited. Citations: 19 tickets for traffic violations were issued this week, 15 for speeding. Please remember: All criminal charges are merely an accusation and the defendant is presumed innocent until or unless proven guilty. From the Delta County Sheriff’s Office (partial list): Nov. 9: A baggie containing a suspicious substance was reported by an Orchard City business, where it had apparently been dropped accidentally. The substance field tested as methamphetamine. Nov. 12: A disturbance was reported at a Crawford residence. A woman reportedly banged repeatedly on the door of a home on Cedar Avenue while shouting about money owed by the occupant’s son. Eventually she broke out a window. By the time deputies arrived she had left the premises. The son would not identify the woman and his father was not interested in filing a complaint.

A Delta area resident reported the theft of a 14-foot, two-axle utility flatbed trailer from his home on 2200 Road. Nov. 13: A woman on Cougar Mountain Road, Hotchkiss, called dispatch after a vehicle pulled into her driveway in the middle of the afternoon. The female driver got out of the vehicle and seemed confused about where she was. When deputies arrived they noted an odor of alcohol. The driver was taken into custody. Nov. 14: A serious accident was reported at Highway 50 and G50 Road north of Delta at about 5 p.m. Brandon Martinez, 18, of Denver was on G50 Road attempting to make a lefthand turn onto Highway 50 when he struck a vehicle traveling eastbound on Highway 50 in the left passing lane. That vehicle was driven by Jebidiah Delhagen, 38, of Rifle. Delhagen skidded 119 feet before colliding with the left side of Martinez’s vehicle. The Martinez vehicle rolled one time, coming to rest on its wheels in the center median. The two drivers and a 26-year-old female passenger in the Martinez vehicle were transported to the hospital by Delta County Ambulance District. Delta firefighters and sheriff ’s deputies remained on the scene to assist the Colorado State Patrol with traffic control. Martinez was cited for careless driving causing injury.

LOCAL NEWS

Delta County Independent

Wednesday, November 18, 2015

County workers earn recognition Jahani Receiving recognition years of service to the county by the board of for 10 years of service Ten county employees commissioners on Mon- were the following: Heather Lashmett, were recognized for their day.

BY HANK LOHMEYER Staff Writer

Photo by Hank Lohmeyer

County employees receiving service recognition from the commissioners on Monday are, front from left, Jan Speas, Reneé Beck, Teresa Weaver, Lisa Orona and Heather Lashmett. Employees receiving recognition but not pictured were Jaimie Thomason-Smiles, Chris Wagner, Leo Beltran, Stephanie Graham and Ron Pearce. Pictured in the back row above are commissioners Doug Atchley, Bruce Hovde and Mark Roeber.

child welfare caseworker for the county Health and Human Services department; Lisa Orona, an eligibility technician for the county Health and Human Services department; Jan Speas, county useful public service coordinator; Jaimie Thomason-Smiles, administrative assistant for child support, county Health and Human Services department; Chris Wagner, road and bridge equipment operator; Teresa Weaver, Health and Human Services eligibility team leader. Recognized for 15 years of service were Reneé Beck, general management assistant for child welfare, Health and Human Services; Leo Beltran, lead custodian; Stephanie Graham, cook for the detention facility; and Ron Pearce, road and bridge equipment operator.

Commissioners ponder pay increase BY HANK LOHMEYER Staff Writer

The Board of County Commissioners on Monday discussed a pay raise proposal for county elected officials that could amount to 30 percent. But the board has not approved any increase. The General Assembly has approved a 30 percent pay hike for county elected officials, and pay increases for state officials as well, but other

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options allow for a 10 percent or a 20 percent raise, county staff explained. The commissioners want to get more information about the plans before making a final decision. In other business at its Nov. 15 regular meeting: • The board approved purchase of a Caterpillar four-yard loader for the District 1 Road and Bridge Department at a price of $230,469. The county had budgeted $242,000 for the purchase. • At a budget meeting on Monday, commissioners heard a report from staff that 2017 revenues will be cut by $500,000 due to loss of personal property tax and production tax revenues from the Bowie layoff. • Staff reported that the West Elk Mine operations will not be impacted by Arch Coal’s rescheduling of its debt. • Commissioners awarded a contract to Blair and Associates for an annual audit to cost $29,500. • The county will cover increased health insurance premium costs for employees next year

equivalent to a 3 percent pay increase, said Robbie LeValley, county administrator. County

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ultimately died of poly drug overdose. Financial records revealed Dr. Jahani’s debts outpaced his income each year. To cover the cost of clinic operations, build a home in Montrose and purchase multiple vehicles, Dr. Jahani billed Medicare, Medicaid and Rocky Mountain Health Plans for office visits associated with the act of prescribing the narcotics. The DEA expert determined there was no legitimate medical purpose or medical need in many of the patient files he analyzed. Dr. Peper entered a guilty plea in July. He will be sentenced Feb. 24.

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workers will also get a 1 percent cost of living increase across the board next year.

Test scores to be released in December BY PAT SUNDERLAND Managing Editor

State-level results are back from the first administration of Colorado’s new tests in English language arts and math. The tests were administered last spring, and were submitted electronically with the intention of providing schools and parents with timely feedback. But in the first year of implementation, school-and district-level results won’t be released to the public until December. “From what I gather from recent training, next year’s tests won’t be available the first of June either,” said Kurt Clay, assistant superintendent of Delta County Joint School District #50. Given to public school students in grades three through high school in spring 2015, the tests were the first statewide measure of the more rig-

Weather causes power outages Scattered outages began affecting members of Delta-Montrose Electric Association (DMEA) as winter weather rolled through the co-op’s service territory late Monday night and early Tuesday morning. The weather system dumped heavy, wet snow onto

FROM PAGE A1 inconsistent with the usual course of medical practice. Specifically, patient history was scant, physical exams were rarely conducted, and there was a lack of individualized treatment planning. Instead, treatment typically involved the prescribing of a fixed set of controlled drugs, including oxycodone, hydrocodone or fentanyl. The DEA’s medical expert used the word “relentless” to describe the doctors’ escalating rate of prescribing controlled drugs. Analysis of patient records revealed three patients, while suffering legitimate health issues,

trees, many of which had not yet lost their leaves, snapping tree limbs which fell into DMEA’s power lines. Power was restored to the majority of affected members by 10 a.m. Tuesday. DMEA reminds members to report trees caught in power lines, downed power lines, and outages by calling 1-877687-3632. It is important to remember, email and social media are not reliable for reporting outages, as they are not continuously monitored. In Orchard City, Eckert and Cedaredge, approximately 1,295 members were affected by the outage. Approximately 572 members in and around Crawford experienced a power outage beginning at 6:12 a.m. and ending at 8:30 a.m. In Hotchkiss, a number of trees leaned over onto power poles from the weight of the snow, and three caught on fire. The trees were smouldering and eventually went out on their own, although the Hotchkiss Fire District had crews on the scene at 3rd and Orchard early Monday. A real-time outage map is available online at http://www.dmea.com/ content/outage-informa tion. DMEA also works to regularly update our Facebook page www.face book.com/DeltaMontose ElectricAssociation< http://www.facebook.com /DeltaMontroseElectric Association> during large or prolonged outages.

orous Colorado Academic Standards, which were fully implemented in all schools in the 2013-14 school year. The Colorado Academic Standards set rigorous, grade-level expectations in 10 content areas, and they include the Common Core State Standards for English language arts and math.

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A4 Wednesday, November 18, 2015

ACCENT

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WINTER HOURS: M, W, TH, F 11A-4P SAT. SUN. BRUNCH 8A-4P CLOSED TUESDAYS 305 MAIN STREET DELTA, CO (FORMERLY BRICKWALL EATERY) LIKE US ON FACEBOOK �

Delta County Independent

Shoebox collection week runs through Nov. 23 Calvary Baptist Church, 1290 A Street, Delta, is a collection site for Operation Christmas Child. A shoebox, or similarsized box, is filled with gifts for a boy or girl. Toys, stuffed animals, hygiene items and school supplies are all suitable for packing a box. Some people include a personal note or photo, plus $7 for shipping costs. The boxes are collected in a central location for distribution by Samaritan’s Purse to children throughout the world. Samaritan’s Purse is a nondenominational evangelical Christian organization providing spiritual and physical aid to people who are victims of war, poverty, natural disasters, disease and famine, with the purpose of sharing God’s love. A small shoebox can have a big impact. What goes into the box is fun, but what comes out of it is eternal. Learn more about the power of Operation Christmas Child at www.samaritanspurse. org.

Leaving their mark

Photo by Pat Sunderland

The Delta Police Department and VFW Post #9221 joined forces to ﬁngerprint kindergartners at Lincoln and Garnet Mesa elementary schools. The ﬁngerprints were placed in an ID kit that was sent home for parents to add photos and a physical description of the child. Parents retain the ID kits and share them with law enforcement only in case of emergency. Above, Charles Kettle, interim police chief, and Commander Jesse Cox gently take impressions from Namiyah Huff and Sophia Siennicki; below, VFW volunteers wipe the ink from students’ hands.

Wild Flower Bistro

Wild Flower Bistro ��

Family, friends find strength with Al-Anon

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More than 8,500 AlAnon members recently took part in a membership survey to share how participation in Al-Anon meetings has improved the quality of their lives. As part of the survey, respondents were given the opportunity to provide comments about the benefits they have experienced as a member of Al-Anon. Of the 5,875 comments received, overwhelmingly, “Al-Anon saved my life” was most frequently cited. “Al-Anon saved my life and the lives of others around me,” said an anonymous respondent in the survey. They continued, “I was so angry with my alcoholic that I actually thought of killing him and myself. Out of desperation I went to an Al-Anon meeting, and in that meeting I met people who were laughing and seemed to be at peace, even though they had

lived with or were living with an active drinker. I wanted that peace, too. So I kept going back.” Another anonymous respondent said, “I no longer recognize the depressed, anxious and fearful man who first came into Al-Anon. My outlook in almost every area in my life has changed for the good. I believe AlAnon saved my life.” Respondents in the survey also answered questions about how their health has improved after attending Al-Anon meetings. Across the board, in all areas of health covered in the survey, including mental, physical and emotional health, participants reported improved well-being. More than one in three Americans report they have experienced alcoholrelated family trouble, according to a Gallup poll conducted in July 2014. Al-Anon Family

Join HopeWest and become a part of a heartfelt ceremony dedicated to remembering those who have touched our lives. Light up a Life will take place on Thursday, Dec. 3, at 5:30 p.m. at Heirlooms for Hospice, 521 Main Street in Delta. This beautiful ceremony honors loved ones and celebrates the hope that HopeWest brings to patients and families.

The evening will feature holiday music, remembrance of loved ones, an inspiring holiday message and refreshments. Celebrate the lives of friends and family with the purchase of a personalized pewter heart ornament, luminary, greeting card or make a donation in honor of a loved one. Find out more about these options by visiting www.HopeWestCO.org.

Celebrate ‘A Colorado Christmas’ in Delta

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ing up an entry for the Delta Parade of Lights. This year’s theme is “A Colorado Christmas.” Applications are available from the Delta Area Chamber of Commerce at 301 Main Street, Delta,

for participants, thanks to the sponsorship of Senior CommUnity Care. The parade will be held on Main Street Friday, Dec. 4, starting at 6 p.m. Contact the chamber at 874-8616 for details.

Two Advent studies planned at Delta UMC Delta United Methodist Church is hosting two special Advent Bible studies. On Wednesdays, beginning Nov. 25, Pastor Carol Rhan will lead participants through “The Journey.” In a fiveweek study, these journeys will capture the stories of Mary, Joseph, Elizabeth, and the road from Bethlehem to Nazareth to today. There are two opportunities, from

1:30-2:30 or 5:30-6:30. Karl Gaiser will lead a small group study on the book, “Jesus Apprentice - Doing What Jesus Did.” Combining four sessions into the study will be on Saturdays, Dec. 5 and 12, from 9:30-11:30 a.m. Both are free but a free will offering would be appreciated. Please call the church office for more information 8749501.

1951. Al-Anon Family Group Headquarters, Inc. acts as the clearinghouse worldwide for inquiries from those who need help or want information about Al-Anon Family Groups and Alateen, its program for teenage members. For more information about Al-Anon Family Groups, go to al-anon. org. Find a local meeting by calling Elizabeth at 874-9832 or toll-free 1888-4AL-ANON.

Senior meal sites close for holidays The senior center meal sites at Delta, Cedaredge, Hotchkiss and Paonia will be closed Thursday and Friday, Nov. 26-27 for the Thanksgiving holiday.

Dance the Celebrate those you night away love this holiday season Nov. 21

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Groups are for families and friends who have been affected by a loved one’s drinking. Nearly 16,000 local groups meet throughout the U.S., Canada, Bermuda and Puerto Rico every week. Al-Anon Family Groups meet in more than 130 countries, and Al-Anon literature is available in more than 40 languages. Al-Anon Family Groups have been offering strength and support to families and friends of problem drinkers since

Come dance the night away at the next community evening dance Saturday, Nov. 21, at Bill Heddles Recreation Center. Chuck Gregory will provide the music for this fun event, which runs from 7 to 10 p.m. Bring a friend and a snack to share. Coffee and lemonade will be provided. The cost is $5 at the door. For more information, call 874-0923.

No meals will be served by Senior CommUnity Meals, there will be no Meals On Wheels deliveries, and the Delta Senior Center’s Thrift Store will also be closed. The Hotchkiss Senior Center will be open on Thursday, Nov. 26, for a community Thanksgiving dinner, but it is not organized by the seniors there.

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SCHOOL

Delta County Independent

Wednesday, November 18, 2015

Delta High School students explore health careers HOSA, is in its second year at DHS. It’s structured much like Future Farmers of America or Future Business Leaders of America, but it’s geared toward students who are interested in any type of medical career. Julie Boyd and Robin Liston sponsored the club

in its initial year. Ben Magtutu, a physics teacher at DHS, is now coFive members of a advisor with Boyd. Boyd health occupations orgateaches college anatomy nization from Delta High at DHS, as well as science School attended a fall at the Delta Opportunileadership conference ty School and an online in Denver last weekend. health course at DeltaThey sat in on sessions to Montrose Technical Coldevelop leadership skills, lege. explored competitive Boyd said HOSA gives students an opportunity to explore a variety of career opportunities, from nursing to pharmacy to veterinary medicine. Along the way, they participate in leadership, public speaking and teamwork building activities. They learn skills expected by those working in the medical field, such as CPR, first aid, hygiene and the proper transfer of patients. Medical math, terminology, spelling and cultural issues are addressed. As individuals or members of a team, they prepare for a constantly expanding series of health care-related Photo submitted competitive events. ComShanaya Deuschle, Haylee Curry, Jaspe Arias, Joyclie Webb and Missa Webb petition is held in Colorarepresented Delta High School at a HOSA leadership conference in Denver. do Springs in the spring.

BY PAT SUNDERLAND Managing Editor

events, learned about professionalism and discussed fundraising opportunities for the national HOSA charity, Leukemia and Lymphoma Society. They also cheered on the Colorado Avalanche at the Pepsi Center. Health Occupation Students of America, or

The future health professionals also perform community service, conduct fundraisers and have time for fun and socialization during the twice-monthly meetings. Their course load typically includes classes that will prepare them for careers in health care, such as college anatomy and college biology. The need for com-

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Managing Editor

Civil Air Patrol Cadet Color Guard

Terriﬁc Kids

Veterans were honored at an assembly hosted by Delta Middle School on Nov. 11. Honored military included Randy Charlesworth, U.S. Air Force; Jerry Harding, a combined 26 years with the Marines and Army; Mike Stahly, a 20-year Army veteran; Louis Webb, U.S. Air Force; Noah McCulley, U.S. Air Force; Patrick Wear, U.S. Army; and David Rowland, 22 years, U.S. Air Force. Guest speaker Tom Jones, a lieutenant with

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 (front) Hailey Wachowicz, Cali Duran, Bailee Hernandez, Sophia Siennicki; (back) Sarah King, Paola Solis Martinez, Lilyanna Borgerding, Liam McFarland. Below are second and third graders Tyson Hughes, Hunter Proctor, Alyssa Rule, Merissa Floyd, Abby Campas, Leilani Rundle, Teddy LIng and Kiva Hartung.

the Civil Air Patrol cadet program, was the guest speaker. Three members of his squadron — Senior Airman Jonathon Lyons of Palisade, Cadet Airman Jayd Gardner of Clifton and Master Sgt. Jack Jones of Delta (a DMS student) comprised the color guard. Lt. Jones talked about three military organizations that are rarely recognized — WASPS (Women Air Force Service Pilots), Merchant Marines and the Civil Air Patrol. Two DMS students read their entries in the VFW Patriot’s Pen essay contest. The winners will be announced in December. James Goff and Jezzie Couch addressed the theme, “What Freedom Means to Me.” Goff ’s essay embraced the right to bear arms; Couch said thinking freely is a vital part of what she considers freedom. The freedom to own a firearm and the ability to practice her religion are also two of the greatest freedoms one can have. The assembly was also attended by the BELA preschoolers; their classrooms are adjacent to the gym where the event took place.

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DMS celebrates Veterans Day BY PAT SUNDERLAND

petent, compassionate health care providers is expected to continue to grow, Boyd said. HOSA provides students an opportunity to learn about career opportunities they may not have considered, while moving DHS toward graduation guidelines that expect students, by the year 2021, to demonstrate postsecondary and workforce readiness.

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Closed on Thanksgiving! ��

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A place where you can bee yourself Lt. Tom Jones

Speech is off to a strong start The Delta High School speech and debate team did extremely well in Paonia on Nov. 7. Senior Rodolfo Contreras and freshman Claire Corbasson took first place in duo interpretation. Freshman Elena Melgoza and sophomore Audrey Mayes took fourth place in duo interpretation. Junior Sheali King took third and junior Hannah Branson took fourth in humor ißnterpretation. Sophomore Allison Castrejon took third and sophomore Maddy Tracey took fourth in original oratory. Sophomores Logan Freed and Jaspar Carmichael took fourth in public forum debate. Juniors Hannah Owens and Lydia Stalcup and seniors Cidney Fisk and Anthony Streich served as presiding officers in the congressional houses. Cidney Fisk was also named outstanding speaker in her house.

A6 Wednesday, November 18, 2015

LOCAL NEWS

Delta County Independent

Fallen airman remembered BY PAT SUNDERLAND Managing Editor

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At the Delta County Museum, a World War II exhibit showcases activities on the home front to support the war effort. There’s also a memorial for William “Billy” Bellmire, the Delta pilot who was killed in a training exercise at Deland Naval Air Station in Florida. Fragments of his aircraft and some personal effects were recently recovered and passed along to museum director Jim Wetzel, along with a shadow box Wetzel presented to two of Bellmire’s distant cousins, Frank Pace and Susanne Bellmire Schultz. Included in the shadow box are a parachute buckle/cord, a belt buckle and gold chain. Ensign Bellmire is buried in the Delta City Cemetery next to his parents, Clarence and Shirley (Roady) Bellmire. He was 25, an only child and unmarried at the time of his death, Feb. 1, 1944. Additional artifacts are displayed at the Deland Naval Air Station Museum, an all-volunteer notfor-profit organization dedicated to commemorating the men and women who have served in America’s armed conflicts. The museum occupies the base’s former master-atarms quarters and is a historic landmark.

Photo by Pat Sunderland

More than 300 pieces from a downed World War II Navy aircraft were discovered on private property in Osteen, Fla., and later associated with a pilot from Delta County. Some of those artifacts are displayed in the Delta Museum; additional pieces were collected in a shadow box and presented to two of Bellmire’s family members, Frank Pace and Susanne Bellmire Schultz, by museum director Jim Wetzel.

Remembering World War II

A medic’s perspective BY MATT SOPER

Delta County Historical Society

Bill Rea, a medic, landed with his platoon at Easy Red on Omaha Beach on D-Day plusone. Rea, a retired teacher and former Orchard City trustee, was drafted into the Army at age 19. As the LST (landing ship tank) approached the beach, Nazi “hedgehogs” and mines in the water meant that Rea

Delta County Historical Society photo

Medics help a wounded soldier during the Battle of Normandy in 1944. and others had to jump, shoulder-deep, into the icy Atlantic water and wade ashore. Rea said he distinctively remembered a dead soldier with a flame-thrower lying on the sand, his pack shot open and photographs of his family lying beside him. A German tank broke the American lines and fired rounds past them, hitting a boat and debris behind them in the water. “The sound was like a handful of gravel hitting a tin roof.” The first night in France Rea spent in a fox hole with .50 cal tracer rounds buzzing just feet above him and anti-aircraft shooting at bombers overhead. Rea said the fear was not always bullets, but shrapnel falling from the sky. As the Americans pushed further inland, the medics followed, establishing a camp in an apple orchard. On one occasion Rea watched a pilot eject from a P-49 and his chute opened only a few feet above the ground. At the same time, the bomb from the plane landed less than 30 feet from where Rea had been observing the incident.

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Due to the plane’s low altitude, the bomb didn’t explode. As a medic, Rea said, “venereal diseases were the most commonly treated. After liberating Paris, treating syphilis and gonorrhea became the main objective of the non-front line medical. On one occasion some of the soldiers thought cans labelled “poison” were really alcohol. So they mixed it with grapefruit juice and within an hour 10 soldiers were dead and 75 were en route to the hospital after having consumed muriatic acid, a chemical used for cleaning typewriters, Rea recalled.

Bill Rea A victory ship transported Rea and a couple thousand of his fellow soldiers back to the U.S. in 1945. As the ship came into Boston harbor, Rea said he’d never forget a tugboat coming by with a Christmas tree lit up, “White Christmas” playing from the intercom, and a giant sign that read: “Welcome home — a job well done!” Rea said his only regret was not being able to spend more time on the front lines treating the real heroes, the ones taking bullets for their nation. After the war, Rea used the GI Bill to go to college and become an educator with a specialization in teaching reading, later serving on the Orchard City Board of Trustees. This is the third in a series of firsthand accounts from Delta County residents who served as soldiers in World War II, supported the troops on the home front and feel the costs of war today. The series coincides with a special exhibit which can be seen at the Delta Museum.

Delta County Independent

ACTIVITIES

Wednesday, November 18, 2015

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American Heritage Month Alan “Stands Alone” Bryant, of Tsalagi (Cherokee) descent, will present a program concerning Cherokee Families and Ceremonies at the Delta Public Library, 211 West Sixth Street, on Saturday, Nov. 21, starting at 1:30 p.m. Bryant has been an improvisational actor at the Renaissance festivals for 15 years and involved in major films such as True Grit, Jonah Hex and Mandrake. Also, he has modeled for book covers. As a speaker, Bryant has lectured on Native

American history at museums, libraries and Scout meetings, as well as performed on stage with the well-known native musical group, Brule. Recently he pre-

Alan Bryant

sented a similar program at the Paonia Library with a standing-roomonly audience. Families with children are encouraged to attend, as he is well-received by young people. “Stands Alone” is to be presented by the Native American Cultural Programs - Delta County Affiliate in celebration of Native American Heritage Month. The year-old organization has partnered with Delta County Libraries on a number of educational presentations.

Concert series showcases large chamber ensemble The Western Slope Concert Series will present two concerts with conductor Alejandro GomezGuillen and a 19-piece chamber ensemble — on Saturday, Nov. 21, at 7:30 p.m. in the recital hall at Colorado Mesa University, and on Sunday, Nov. 22, at 3 p.m. at the Montrose Pavilion. Tickets are available online at www.JunctionConcerts. com, and at Roper Music in Grand Junction and the Montrose Pavilion. All seats are reserved, and start at $9 in advance

and $12 at the door for information, or buy tickets adults. online at www.Junction Gifted young conduc- Concerts.com. tor Alejandro GomezGuillen will lead a 19piece chamber ensemble of leading musicians in fascinating music for strings and wind, including Copland’s famous “Appalachian Spring” in the original chamber version, John Adams’ brilliant and driving “Son of Chamber Symphony,” and Schoenberg’s late-romantic masterpiece, “Chamber Symphony #1.” Gomez-Guillen Call 241-4579 for more

Music, laughter are on tap A “ Colorado Adventure” or Camping Sweet Adeline Style is sure to make you laugh this Saturday at the Delta Christian Church. The Del-Rose Chorus has put together a great mix of old and new songs. Some songs have been pulled out of the archives to help promote the beauty of Colorado; others are longtime favorites with the chorus and the audience. As in many years past, the Black Canyon Chorus will participate in the show, along with De’Ja’Vu, a guest quartet from the Denver area that has entertained audiences since 2005. Bring a friend and enjoy an afternoon of great music Saturday at 3 p.m. An afterglow follows the show with more entertainment, soup and sandwiches. Tickets to both events can be purchased at Heirlooms for Hospice in Delta and Montrose, the Delta Chamber of Commerce, and the Gazebo Florist in Cedaredge. For more information, call 256-9763.

San Juan Weavers Guild celebrates 38 years of quality workmanship Quality is the hallmark of the many items offered at the upcoming show and sale by the San Juan Weavers Guild. The public is cordially invited to the 38th annual event Saturday, Nov. 21, 9 a.m. to 4 p.m., at the Holiday Inn Express, 1391 S. Townsend Avenue in Montrose (next to Safeway). Admission is free, and shopping temptations will be abundant! Montrose-area residents have come to consider the weavers’ show as a tradition for holiday shopping, with handcrafted yarns and textiles not available elsewhere in the region. Household items such as towels, runners, placemats and rugs will be available in a vast assortment of colors and patterns. Scarves and fiber jewelry are wonderful accessories for personal use, and handwoven clothing such as vests and shawls are also offered. Even your cat will appreciate your shopping; pet toys are traditionally included in the sale! Handwoven dolls for children, holiday ornaments and décor, and baskets

made by guild members are popular. Fiber for spinning and felting, and beautiful handspun yarn will be featured. Woven and felted bags will make wonderful gifts for family, friends or yourself. As in the two previous years, the guild will sell beautiful baskets made by members of an African crafts cooperative. The San Juan Guild sponsors the efforts of the Ngurunit Basket Weavers from Kenya by paying for their membership in Weave a Real Peace, an international organization that helps revive traditional weaving techniques and provides fair-trade marketing opportunities and income to women in many communities around the world. Profits from the basket sales in Montrose help support the families of the women who craft the baskets. Education is a big part of the show and sale, and children and adults are encouraged to try spinning and weaving, under the guidance of guild members. Materials and instruction are free, and the equipment is pro-

vided. In addition, there will be ongoing demonstrations of various fiber arts throughout the day. Discover the pleasure and satisfaction of creating your own yarn and fabric. These skills are easy to learn, and they are not “lost arts!” Every year, the guild exhibits the results of creative challenge projects, and this year there will be two special displays. Some members took on a challenge called “weaver’s poker,” where they were assigned four topics at random to use as inspiration for a finished piece: colors, patterns, techniques, and geographic landmarks were among the assignments, and options for nonweavers were included. For a separate project, members were challenged to use thrums — leftover bits of yarn — as a significant part of a finished piece, and the spectacular results will be on display. The San Juan Weav-

ers Guild is celebrating its 38th year in 2015 and currently has more than 50 members from the Montrose and Delta areas and beyond, including Grand Junction, Paonia and Telluride. The guild normally meets in Montrose the third Saturday of the month during the school year. (The sale replaces the November meeting, and a holiday potluck is scheduled earlier in December.) An informal spinners’ gathering and potluck lunch is held monthly year-round in Delta. The guild welcomes anyone interested in the fiber arts, at any level of experience. Many monthly meetings feature special programs and sharing sessions, and workshops offer new learning experiences. Educational outreach is included at some public events. For information, contact Bobbie Irwin, 249-2981 or irwin@rmi. net.

Make your own Christmas cards

Ever want to make your own Christmas cards? Then Delta United Methodist Church has something for you. On Saturday, Dec. 5, 1:303:30, the community is invited to come and make three to four handmade cards to share with your

friends and family. There is no charge but attendees need to bring their own glue or adhesives and colored pencils if they have them. Call to reserve your spot by Friday, Dec. 4. Photo submitted For more information, Deanna Grider, left, and Linda Brown, right, weave call the church at 874- during a workshop sponsored by the San Juan 9501. Weavers Guild.

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A8 Wednesday, November 18, 2015

BUSINESS

Delta County Independent

Meet Lea Hart, interim Delta County Libraries director BY LEAH MORRIS Delta County Libraries

Clearly, Lea Hart knows libraries. Her resume reflects years of interesting library jobs and incredible experience, from working in the special library of the mining company, AMAX Extractive Research and Development, Inc., to serving as a librarian for the organization that built the Hubble space satellite, Ball Aerospace in Boulder. She received her master’s degree in library science from Emporia State University in 1993 while raising a family and working. She has run printing presses and provided public library programming for all ages from babies to college students.Her name can even be translated to the verb “read” in Spanish, although she pronounces it “Lee.” In the past six years, Hart has worked for the Delta County Libraries, and her experience here is also varied, as she has spent time in every library in the district. “I started as a Delta volunteer, then became a substitute. I was willing to do what I needed to get my foot in the door,” she explains. Soon after becoming a

substitute in 2009, Hart started to travel around the county to provide story times in each library. She then spent three months substituting in the cataloging department in Hotchkiss, covering for a staff member on maternity leave. Hart eventually moved into an open position managing the Delta Library, then took on Cedaredge as well, becoming the regional manager for the Delta and Surface Creek areas. Such broad knowledge and willingness to help out where she is most needed has served Hart well, as has her unwavering commitment to the public. She explains, “My focus in libraries has always been empowering people, whether it is staff, patrons, or other

Lea Hart

team members. Being the regional manager gave me the ability to do that. I felt like I was making a difference.” Recent events have placed Hart into the position of interim district director for the Delta County Libraries. She is working with staff and the board of trustees to ensure that the needs of all library employees are met and that the district continues to offer the high levels of quality programming and services that patrons have come to expect. Outwardly calm and easygoing, Hart makes light of her experience and drive, saying, “What can I say? I’m a worker bee!” Visits to Hart’s various offices around the library district reflect her peaceable demeanor. Cute kitten calendars adorn walls otherwise holding key district information. However, in much the same way as the calendars casually conceal vital district documents, Hart’s affinity for soft, helpless creatures belies a woman with a powerful work ethic, a keen sense of right and wrong, and an intense compassion for her staff and her community.

10-year employees

Lynda Brew, Paula Carter and Jennifer Phillips were recently recognized for 10 years of service at Delta County Memorial Hospital.

Photo by Pat Sunderland

Cynthia’s is a family venture for Deon and Anine Appelgryn and their two daughters, Corrini and Amoré, who plays the piano Friday and Saturday nights. The Appelgryns also have two grown sons living in Texas.

Cynthia’s dishes up a memorable dining experience BY PAT SUNDERLAND Managing Editor

Great food ... good friends ... unforgettable memories. That’s the vision that forms the basis for Cynthia’s, the restaurant operated by Deon and Anine Appelgryn. The large cedar-clad restaurant on Highway 92 has had several names over the years, and was even closed for a short time before the Appelgryns found the location they’d been searching for. They were living in Dallas, Texas, ready for a break from the corporate world, when they decided to go into the restaurant business. A year-long search brought them to western Colorado, where they were told Delta needed a decent restaurant. Since then, they’ve been trying to identify what makes a “decent restaurant” in the eyes of Delta residents. They’re still learning, but believe they’ve got the right foundation — a menu featuring steaks and seafood, food that’s consistently well prepared, and a staff that has the ability and passion to provide a

their customers. “We listen to what people have to say and we adapt,” said Deon, who makes it a point to seek feedback, both good and bad, from restaurant patrons. The restaurant opens at 11 a.m. Monday-Friday and at 4 p.m. Saturday. Steak, ribs and prime rib (available Friday and Saturday nights only) are customer favorites. Seafood entrees include fish and chips, shrimp scampi, salmon and scallops. Or choose one of the restaurant specialties — bow tie chicken, chicken fried chicken and chicken fried steak. The menu also includes appetizers, salads and sandwiches. The Philly cheese steak is a popular lunch choice. Daily specials have included a Guinness stew and chicken pot pie. All menu items are available in the pub, where patrons gather to watch sports or enjoy ladies’ night out. Check out the full menu at www.cynthias. restaurant. Reservations can be made online or by calling 874-7688.

memorable dining experience. “It all starts the minute our customers enter the front door,” said Lisa Stanley, the front of the house manager. The décor, the music, the food all combine to create an ambience that fulfills a vision the Appelgryns have had in the back of their minds since they were newly married and still living in South Africa. On their first anniversary, they had an amazing night out at a restaurant called Cynthia’s. That evening set the bar by which they measure all other restaurants, and it’s why they named their own venture Cynthia’s. Although they most recently lived in Dallas, the Appelgryns grew up in a small agricultural town similar to Delta. They’ve worked through the bumps in the road typical of a new business venture and are now hosting special events in the banquet room. The next step is to get more connected to the community. They recognize they’re outsiders, and so rely heavily on input from

Know Your Neighbor

Crossroads expands to meet the growing need for assisted living facilities, services

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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Crossroads Senior Living was established in 2000 with one building and 32 rooms. A few years later, the building was expanded to incorporate 17 additional rooms. In 2006, 16 independent living cottages were built, followed by 10 more. In 2014, the kitchen and dining room were expanded and ground was broken on a memory care facility. Each step in the growth of Crossroads Senior Living has been geared to serve residents who don’t need a nursing home or skilled care, but would beneﬁt from some protective oversight. In addition to independent living, assisted living and memory care, Crossroads provides adult day care during the day and respite stays for those needing a short-term stay. Independent living consists of twobedroom, two-bathroom cottages, each with a one-car garage. These residents receive assistance with chores and maintenance, freeing them to focus on themselves and the things they enjoy doing. Assisted living residents also receive assistance with chores and maintenance, as well as help with daily activities such as bathing, grooming, dressing and medication management. The assisted living residents occupy their own apartments, with help just steps away when needed. “Our community preserves the rural culture so important to our residents,

yet provides the comprehensive assistance desired,” said facility director Diane Obermeyer. “We focus on wellness and keeping residents as independent as possible by providing a tailored plan of assistance. “Memory care is still assisted living, but it specializes in dementia care in a secured building. There is a lot more one-on-one care in memory care than you would ﬁnd in your standard assisted living. “We strive to assist our residents while keeping them as independent as possible.” Obermeyer has been with Crossroads since its opening in 2000.

She is proud of the warm and welcome community, where residents and staff feel like family. Crossroads is owned by Maranatha Volunteers International, which builds churches, school campuses, hospitals and day care centers in communities all over the U.S. and the world. Crossroads is staffed 24 hours a day, seven days a week, 365 days a year. Visitors are always welcome, and tours are available for those who would like to learn more about the wonderful options at Crossroads Senior Living. Learn more by calling 874-1421 or visiting www.crossroads alc.org.

The memory care building was completed this fall. Every detail is geared toward those with dementia, from the layout of the building, to meals, activities and care. Families can be assured their loved ones will receive the best of care.

Liquor Tasting Events ��

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NORTH FORK November 18, 2015

TIMES

Section

www.deltacountyindependent.com

Paonia changes course on water rate increases BY TAMIE MECK Staff Writer

After considering public comments regarding proposed hefty increases in water rates at a Nov. 5 special meeting on water, sewer and trash ordinances, the Town of Paonia announced at a Nov. 10 special meeting that the proposed change to the water ordinance will now reflect a $6 acrossthe-board rate increase. While the Nov. 5 meeting attracted about 70 citizens, most of whom represented out-oftown users and some of the 32 private water companies serviced by the town, a half dozen attended the Nov. 10 meeting, which preceded the regularly scheduled meeting of the board of trustees. A proposed $100 administrative and services fee for water companies was removed from the draft ordinance in

response to public comments at the Nov. 5 meeting. The new rates will bring the town closer to meeting its debt obligation for loans on recent state-mandated water filtration upgrades at the 2 million-gallon Upper Lamborn Mesa Water Treatment Plant. Under the current rate structure, the town can meet about half of that debt obligation. Town manager Jane Berry has recommended to trustees that the ordinance be passed under an emergency provision. Trustees can decide when to vote on the ordinance, and when the new rates will go into effect. The rate increase provides an interim measure pending results of a water study, which Berry said would likely be completed no sooner than April or early May. Once the WATER RATES TO B2

Photo by Tamie Meck

All in a day’s work

Michael Brown clears snow from the sidewalk in front of Hightower Cafe Monday morning. Brown, an employee at Hightower, said shoveling snow isn’t in his job description, but he doesn’t mind the task because he likes his job. Paonia received about an inch of snow by the time businesses opened Monday morning.

Trustees, students share seat at the table BY TAMIE MECK Staff Writer

Walter Elias Disney said that “Our greatest natural resource is in the minds of our children.” Maybe that was the thinking a few years back when members of the Hotchkiss town council and Hotchkiss High School student government began holding joint meetings on a semi-annual basis. In what has become an annual tradition, the two entities shared responsibilities last Thursday at the regularly

scheduled council meeting. Student Council sponsor Matt Cavanaugh said seniors are studying a unit on the structures of government. This week begins the local governments part of the unit. Sitting in on the meeting provides an introduction of sorts on what they will be discussing in the coming days, said Cavanaugh, and gives students a reference point and practical experience for their student council duties at school. The meeting allows them to witness how decisions

are made at the town level. “They get to see how exciting local government can be,” said Cavanaugh. Student body president Sophia Schelle co-chaired the meeting and was joined at the front table by senior class president Andrew Oviedo, junior class treasurer Roggen Frick, sophomore class president Nolan Egging and freshman class president Bruce Turnbull. About 20 members of the senior class also attended the meeting. Attendance wasn’t mandatory, said

Cavanaugh, but students do receive extra credit. The tradition of having students join council began about four years ago, said Mayor Wendell Koontz. “It’s a way to get kids interested in town government, and vice versa.” Among the agenda items was an application for a water tap on property located near Back River Road northeast of town. The access line doesn’t provide a lot of volume, which can affect service, said public works director Mike Owens. Applicants Tom Curry and

Photo by Tamie Meck

In what has become a tradition, Hotchkiss trustees and Hotchkiss High School seniors and student council members held a joint meeting last Thursday. Next April the students will host a council meeting at the high school.

Mike Pitt said they understand that because of the low volume, they may find themselves without water on occasion. The only fix, which is not in the immediate plans due to limited growth, is to install a bigger water main, said Owens. Following discussion, trustee Thomas Wills made a motion to approve the request with the provision that purchasers acknowledge awareness of the possible limitations of the tap, and that the conditions be disclosed on documents related to the property to avoid problems with future buyers. “Let’s not get in the habit of doing such a stand-alone,” suggested town attorney Bo Nerlin. Owens and town engineer Joann Fagan provided an update on the wastewater rehabilitation project. Owens showed photographs of the 9-foot-deep trenches where sewer pipes are being replaced, and explained how steel supports prevent the sides from caving in on pipes and workers. With much of AT THE TABLE TO B2

Chamber applauds community leaders BY TAMIE MECK Staff Writer

It was fitting that the Hotchkiss Community Chamber of Commerce held its Nov. 11 annual meeting at Memorial Hall. The nonprofit was named the chamber’s Nonprofit of the Year. The building is used by the community about 450 times per year, according to board member Sue Whittlesey. Board member Paul Schmucker gave a brief history, from the pouring of the foundation in 1949 to the present. Schmucker read a long list of names involved in its inception, which he said was by no means a complete list. The $1,400 for the community room’s Michigan maple floor was donated by Ola Taylor. “You’re walking on it,” said Schmucker. “It’s still here.” Thanks to community gen-

erosity, the property has seen numerous upgrades in recent years, including installation of new energy-saving windows made possible by a $25,000 donation from Oxbow Mine. Schmucker takes personal pride in the building. “I just feel at home in here because I feel like I’m walking around with the guys who put it together.” A few of them and their descendents are still around, added Schmucker. He considers the building one of the best in Hotchkiss in terms of construction, and said it’s as good as when it was built. “And we’re going to keep it around as long as we can.” Business of the Year typically goes to a business that’s had a really good year, said chamber president Nathan Sponseller, but this year’s award honors TDS Telecom for its sustained commitment to the community.

Photo by Tamie Meck

TDS Telecom employees Bill Long, center, and Ray Vasquez accept the Hotchkiss Community Chamber of Commerce Business of the Year award “for many years of exceptional service to Hotchkiss and the North Fork Valley,” from chamber president Nathan Sponseller.

“I kind of feel like this is a TDS Telecom/Bill Long award,” said Sponseller. Long, TDS field services manager for Colorado, Arizona and Winterhaven, Calif., is also chamber vice president. Sponseller said Long works for the betterment of both TDS and the chamber. “Bill has really given a lot of time to the chamber, and TDS has provided a lot of good service to the community on an on-going basis,” said Sponseller. As an example, he said, the welcome sign at the south entrance to town was blown down last spring. Long took the initiative to have it replaced. Gates Shaklee was named Citizen of the Year. The Hotchkiss High School graduate and deputy marshal for the Town of Hotchkiss originally showed interest in education, said Carrie Yantzer, Hotchkiss K-8 principal and chamber board member, in presenting the award. Shaklee is a volunteer sports coach at HK-8 and his alma mater. “He does that on his own time and gives of his heart,” said Yantzer. “So many kids tell me how much they trust and value Deputy Shaklee. Just to have that, in this day and age, is really incredible.” At the monthly town council meeting, Marshal Dan Miller praised Shaklee for his involvement in the community. Shaklee said when he and wife Anna, who was also his high school sweetheart, were preparing to graduate from Adams State in Alamosa, they decided to return to Hotchkiss. “We wouldn’t change it for the world,” said Shaklee. “This is our home, this is our commu-

Photo by Tamie Meck

Gates Shaklee gives a thumbs-up for being called a “cheesehead” by chamber board member Carrie Yantzer during the annual meeting of the Hotchkiss Community Chamber of Commerce last Thursday at Memorial Hall. Shaklee, a deputy for the Town of Hotchkiss and volunteer sports coach, was named 2015 Citizen of the Year by the chamber. nity, and it’s a pleasure being back here.” In the annual report on the chamber, Sponseller said the organization had a successful year, increasing membership 14 percent to 108 members. Sponseller gave credit to chamber board members. “I think I’ve got the best board I could ever hope for,” said Sponseller. “They really work well together.” Among the 2015 highlights, Ride the Rockies brought 3,500 cyclists and support crew to town. While the chamber about broke even on the event, said Sponseller, it brought good exposure to the town and the valley. “And we like to believe they left a lot of money in the process.”

The Colorado Grand classic car rally donated $7,500 to the chamber, as well as a $7,500 scholarship that will be awarded to a Hotchkiss senior this coming spring. “If for nothing else, it’s worth putting on just for that scholarship,” said Sponseller. “We’re very proud to work with the Colorado Grand.” Looking to 2016, Sponseller said there will be “no shortage of activities.” The board is partnering with Delta County and others to consider improvements at the Delta County Fairgrounds in Hotchkiss. The Hotchkiss Downtown Improvement Committee has also made great strides with beautification and other projects.

B2 Wednesday, November 18, 2015

NORTH FORK TIMES

Delta County Independent

It is never dull when municipal court is in session

defendant if she had any problems with that, to which she politely replied no, then thanked the judge and left. In a case involving keeping of junk, the defendant was cooperating with the Paonia Police Department, said Investigator Neil Ferguson. The individual has made significant improvements on her property, and Ferguson requested she be given another 30 days to bring her property into compliance with town code. In another case, a male driver was going 31 mph in a 20-mph zone and

failed to present proof of insurance when stopped by Officer Taffine Patterson. After pleading guilty to both charges, and in the absence of any prior legal history, Judge Kolman reduced his speeding charge and loss of four points off his driver’s license to 29 mph in a 20-mph zone and the associated one point off of his license. The defendant didn’t bring a paper copy of his proof of insurance, but Judge Kolman accepted an email from the insurance company after reviewing it on the defendant’s phone. These tickets aren’t cheap. The driver was ordered to pay $242 — $90 for speeding ($10 for every mile per hour over the speed limit), plus a $27 surcharge, $200 for failure to produce proof of insurance, $100 suspended on condition of no further speeding infractions, and a $25 court cost. “Hopefully we won’t see you again here,” said Kolman. As for the other failure to appear, he will likely appear at a later date. Prior to ending the session, a warrant was issued for his arrest.

Regarding water tap fees, the cost of a basic residential (3/4-inch) water tap fee remains at $6,000, and in-town commercial tap fees will be $9,790 for a 1-inch service line, up to $156,200 for a 4-inch line. Taps for water companies will cost $15,000 for a 3/4-inch line, up to $750,000 for an 8-inch line. Changes to the proposed town trash ordinance reflect increases in monthly costs for weekly pickup services. Weekly collection of one 33-gallon container will rise from $12 to $15 per month; from $15 to $18 per month for two or three 33-gallon containers; and from $22 to $25 for four or five containers. A $3-per-container fee will be charged for each additional 33-gallon container that exceeds category limits. Additional fees may apply for oversized items. Weekly dumpster charges will be $33 per month per 2-cubic yards dumpster and $35 for a 3cubic-yard dumpster. Rates were considered prior to the announcement that Delta County will raise its landfill fees in 2016 (see Nov. 4 DCI article “Landfill fees are going up in 2016”). Berry noted that the increase is significant enough to

raise the town’s trash fund expenditures. “That fund was balanced to the penny.” Proposed changes to the sewer ordinance reflect a monthly in-town service charge of $31, up from $26, and an out-oftown rate of $50, up from $44; rates for new in-town connection fees will be $5,000 per unit, up from $3,750, and out-of-town rates will increase from $7,500 to $10,000. Draft ordinances are posted online at townof paonia.com/news/newsannouncements/ Adoption of ordinance changes is necessary for completion and passage of the 2016 budget, noted Berry. “We haven’t even talked about the actual budget yet.” In October the town adopted a schedule of special meetings to address the budget and associated ordinances, including a special meeting on Nov. 17. The next special meeting, a budget study session, will begin at 5:30 p.m. Tuesday, Nov. 24, proceeded by the regularly scheduled board meeting at 7 p.m. Final adoption of the budget is scheduled for the Dec. 8 board meeting. The draft budget is available on the town website under the “Government” heading.

approve a donation of $500 to the Center for Mental Health, which provides services in a six-county region, and awarded $500 to Delta County Economic Development. Anita Evans, with the Delta County School District Foundation, gave a presentation on “The Nature Connection,” an environmental education center to be located on Bulldog Street in the former Montessori School building and funded by a $75,000 planning grant from Great Outdoors Colorado. Evans asked students and trustees to consider creative ways to get local students to spend quality time outdoors, and the equipment that might be needed. Koontz also reminded students that the town awards two $500 Hotchkiss Community Scholarships annually. These are not academic scholarships, but are based on community spirit, volunteerism and involvement in the community, said Koontz. Applications will be available in January. “We do this to let you know that the town and the community supports our seniors,”

said Koontz. Trustees anticipate approval of the draft 2016 budget at the regularly scheduled Dec. 10 public meeting. In looking at this year’s budget as year-end approaches, Mayor Koontz stated that projected general fund income for the year is $788,000 and expense projections are $785,000. “We’re about $3,000 in the black,” Koontz told council and town staff. “Well done.” Student council members said they enjoyed the experience. It allows students to get comfortable with walking into this kind of situation, so that if they ever have to come before a board or council, they’ll have an idea of how things work, said Cavanaugh. Freshman class president Bruce Turnbull said he was encouraged to get involved in school government by his older brother and that Schelle and others have been very supportive. The experience gave him more of an understanding of how a town government is run. “It’s good to know what’s happening in town,” said Turnbull.

BY TAMIE MECK Staff Writer

Of the five cases that came before Paonia Municipal Court Judge Bradley Kolman on Nov. 12, two of the defendants were noshows. One had a good excuse: he was in jail on a town warrant after an earlier failure to appear on shoplifting charges. That’s how court began for Judge Kolman, who has served as Paonia’s judge for about 20 years. Kolman also served as Delta County attorney from 1990 to 2011. Prior to 1990 he performed contract work for the Health and Human Services Department. Last week’s session was Kolman’s second this year, not because citations aren’t being issued. Read the Paonia Police Department’s semimonthly blotter posted to the town website and you’ll see the department is very busy. Most of those on the receiving end of a citation pay the fines, and some choose to come before Judge Kolman, who has the power to impose a maximum fine of $1,000, a prison sentence of no more than one year, or both. If defendants disagree with

Photo by Tamie Meck

Paonia Municipal Court Judge Bradley Kolman prepares for court on Nov. 12, at Paonia Town Hall. Kolman has presided over the Paonia municipal courtroom for the last 20 years. his final decision, they can appeal to the Delta District Court. If how Kolman handled his cases last week is any indication, people charged with an offence of town ordinances and wind up in court are treated fairly. And he has a sense of humor. When a defendant’s cell phone went off, twice, he requested that the caller be informed that the judge is unavailable. Going through the docket, Kolman dismissed charges against a female after her alleged victim was uncooperative. Kolman politely asked the

Water rates FROM PAGE B1 results of the study are known, the town would amend the rates later in the year, if necessary. Loan payments are currently $197,000 per year. The town is required by law to maintain 110 percent of the coverage of those payments. The town also has an obligation to make payments of $128,000 per year on loans pertaining to statemandated upgrades to the lower (Clock) water treatment plant. “Keep in mind the $6 only covers debt service,” said trustee David Bradford, who also serves on the town public works committee. The town also needs to address costs for maintenance and depreciation. Past boards have consistently put off addressing those needs until tomorrow, said Bradford. “Tomorrow is here.” The revised water ordinance will raise the perthousand-gallon usage fees and create a fee system that is more equitable. Under the proposal, per-thousand-gallon rates for all water users are follows: 0-10,000 gal.—$1.75 10,001-20,000 gal.—$2.00 20,001-30,000 gal.—$3.50 30,001-100,000 gal.—$4.50 100,001+ gal.—$5.50

At the table FROM PAGE B1 the system dating back to 100 years ago, the project has its share of surprises, said Fagan. Trustees also approved four requests for donations. Billie Marta requested $500 to help Hotchkiss Memorial Hall pay for repairing the front steps, which will largely be completed by volunteers and is estimated to cost about $1,000. The hall sees about 450 community uses per year, said Marta. Council also approved an annual donation of $500, $250 each for the community Thanksgiving and Christmas dinners organized by trustee Larry Jakubiak. Mayor Koontz told the students that the events provide great volunteer opportunities that are both rewarding and look good on scholarship applications. Pam Bliss received $200 for the 24th annual Children’s Christmas Party. The $200 will provide support for four children in the North Fork area. “And we, too, need a lot of volunteers for that party,” said Bliss. Trustees also voted to

NORTH FORK TIMES

Delta County Independent

Wednesday, November 18, 2015

Veterans Day observed in Paonia BY TAMIE MECK Staff Writer

The six Paonia High School students who shared lunch with Vietnam veteran Joe Kaputa on Veterans Day paid close attention as the former Marine told of how he enlisted, his tours, and about spending time on the island of Okinawa. Much like the USO, said Kaputa, Okinawa was a place where members of the military could go and relax. When Kaputa realized the five students at his table were football and volleyball players heading into state playoffs, he told them he was honored. Kaputa was one of three veterans who dined with students on Veterans Day. All three are members of the American Legion Wilson Head Post

97 in Paonia. Dave Hiney served in the Marines as an electrician for three years, and twice was headed for Vietnam. Both tours were canceled, including the first tour after he broke his leg and was sent to Okinawa for 13 months. He told students that joining the military is a good option these days. “It teaches you self-discipline, self-confidence, and teamwork,” said Hiney. Lonnie Trujillo, a 1982 graduate of PHS and the son of PHS graduates, served 11 tours of duty in his 26 years as a munitions systems expert in the U.S. Army, and is a retired master sergeant. He has served as commander at the American Legion the past four years. After giving a brief synopsis of his 26 years, he shouted “Go Eagles!”

Kaputa also reminded students that the national holiday that is Veterans Day began as Armistice Day, marking the signing of the armistice to end World War I on Nov. 11, 1918, at 11 o’clock. PHS recognizes Veterans Day every year, said science teacher Tracy Campbell. World War II veteran Norm Shetley is often invited to speak, and this year, all area veterans were invited to join students for lunch. Following lunch, the veterans visited their fellow veterans at Paonia Care & Rehabilitation. The local American Legion Auxiliary hosted the legion’s annual dinner last Friday. Trujillo said the legion provides food boxes on Thanksgiving and holds a toy drive and food box event for Christmas. The

Photo by Tamie Meck

Former U.S. Marine Joe Kaputa enjoys lunch with Paonia High School students (from left) Colby Simpson, Trevor Plymale, Sophie Anderson, Brianna Van Vleet and Emily Pieper on Veterans Day.

Students invited to compete in logo contest Submissions by Olathe and Delta County area students for a contest to design a logo for The Nature Connection are now being accepted. The Nature Connection is a newly-created hub for outdoor education for Delta County and Olathe. Funding comes from a Great Outdoors Colorado Inspire planning grant. The Nature Connection will work in tandem with public and private partners to offer quality outdoor experiences for area youth, according to a press release. The logo must include the name “The Nature Connection.” Design must have the capability

of being digitally reproduced. Working with school technology and art teachers on the design is encouraged. The winning logo will grace TNC’s web page, currently under construction, and be displayed at the facility on Bulldog Street and on all communications. Creator of the winning design will be awarded a $200 prize. Deadline for submission is Jan. 1 and should include the artist’s name, age, address, email, phone number and parental permission for a publicity photo. For details, or to submit a design, contact Anita Evans at asevans54@gmail.com.

legion also awards annual scholarships, and in 2014 awarded 12 scholarships to area students. The legion also sponsors Boys State and the

Legion Auxiliary sponsors Girls State, which gives students going into their senior year an opportunity to experience firsthand how government works

by actively participating with other students from across the state in creation of a mock government, the writing of laws and election of officials.

B4 Wednesday, November 18, 2015

NORTH FORK TIMES

Delta County Independent

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The Delta County Independent publishes engagements, anniversaries and wedding stories free of charge. Photo by Tamie Meck

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Area veterans pose for a group photo after receiving quilts, made by S&B Quilters, Saturday at Memorial Hall in Hotchkiss. In all, 26 veterans received a quilt. The guild is collecting the names of area veterans for future quilt giveaways.

Quilts donated to local vets

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BY TAMIE MECK

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Members of the S&B Quilters’ Guild continued their tradition of presenting quilts to veterans by giving out more than 25 quilts to local veterans during their Nov. 14 meeting. A short program honoring veterans included a singing of “God Bless America.” Each of the 26 veterans in attendance was introduced by emcees Wanda Goforth and Sallie Waldron, and asked to share something about their service. Most served during the Vietnam and Desert Storm eras and in the Iraq War and in Afghanistan. A handful were veterans of the Korean Conflict. Some served for more than 40 years, including Bill Wason, who recited the Johnny Cash

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Staff Writer

poem “Ragged Old Flag” before veterans selected their quilts. “This is our way of honoring and saying thank you to these veterans for their service,” said S&B Quilters’ Veterans’ Quilts co-chair Connie Barry. “It’s just a way of saying thanks for our freedoms.” Richard Walton served in the U.S. Army from 1986 to 1990 and said that many members of his family are veterans. Walton didn’t know he would be given a quilt when he was invited to the event. “It was a nice surprise,” said Walton, who chose a red, white and blue quilt for its big blue stars. Walton said he would likely give the quilt to his dad, who was unable to attend the event. He served between the Korean Conflict and

the Vietnam War, said Walton. Hotchkiss Elks Lodge #1807 donated funds to purchase supplies the last two years, said Barry. Quilters made more than 50 quilts for the giveaway. Remaining quilts will be cached for next year’s program. The guild also gives quilts to veterans in local nursing homes. This is the second year quilts went to local veterans. Prior to 2014, quilts were donated during the annual National Disabled Veterans Winter Sports Clinic in Snowmass. Guild members voted two years ago to focus on the Delta County area. The guild’s 100-plus members represent Delta, Montrose and Mesa counties, as well as Iowa and New Mexico.

They’re already working on the 2016 quilts and meet the second Saturday of each month at 9 a.m., at Memorial Hall. Drawing for their annual quilt raffle is Dec. 5. This year’s quilt is an original design by member Vicki Jones, worked on by 18 guild members, and quilted by Gale Smith. Tickets are $1, with all proceeds going to the guild’s educational programs. The guild keeps a list of known veterans in the area and is seeking to identify others, said Barry. Veterans or family members of veterans are encouraged to contact the guild to get on the list for 2016. For more information, email sbquilters1989@gmail. com, or visit www.org sites.com/co/sbquilters guild/.

Three named to zoning board BY TAMIE MECK Staff Writer

At the Nov. 10 regular meeting, trustees appointed Alexis Halbert, Dave Knutson and James C. Normandin to Paonia’s zoning board of adjustment, leaving one seat vacant. The appointments mean that the board will now have

a quorum and the ability to address variance requests. The town has held on to one variance request for two months, said town manager Jane Berry. The board of adjustments will meet at 10 a.m. Friday, Nov. 20, at town hall to address that variance request, for a covered porch located

Raise okayed for Hotchkiss judge BY TAMIE MECK Staff Writer

Judge Lynn French, who presides over Hotchkiss Municipal Court the second Thursday of each month, received a raise in pay from $250 per month to $400. French has presided over the court for more than 35 years. His salary comes from the police department budget. While French only holds one court session per month, Marshal Dan Miller noted that French is on call 24 hours a day, seven days a week. “He’s also a qualified attorney, too,” said Miller. Trustee Thomas Wills made a motion to raise French’s salary to $350 per month, saying that it represents a more incre-

Paonia will sell surplus equipment The Town of Paonia is planning to sell off surplus property in December. Items include cars, trucks, SUVs, equipment, bicycles, two-way radios, various computers, electronics equipment, and other miscellaneous items. A 1972 International dump truck and a 1970 Kaiser 6x6 truck formerly used by the U.S. Forest Service are among the vehicles for sale. No sale date has been set, but the town is considering a Saturday morning between now and the end of the year, possibly Dec. 12 or 19. A full list of items is available at town hall. Those wanting to preview items can contact the town at 527-4101.

mental raise and that he can always come back next year and request another raise. That motion died for lack of a second, and Wills joined fellow trustees in voting in favor of the $150 per month pay increase.

on residential property. Applicants were not required to attend the meeting, causing trustees Dave Bradford and Susanne Watson to express concern over missed opportunities to meet them and ask questions. Bradford asked that in the future, applicants be asked to attend the meeting when a vote is being considered. The three appointments were approved on a 5-1 vote, with Watson casting the dissenting vote. Trustees also approved a liquor license renewal for the Blue Sage Center for the Arts. A change order was approved on the Alpine C.M. contract for improvements at the upper Lamborn Mesa Water Treatment Plant,

Preschool visitor

allowing for an additional 30 days to complete the project. The new completion date is Dec. 18. Trustees also voted to award the contract for construction of a water tank staircase at the lower (Clock) water treatment plant to PNCI Construction, Inc., of Grand Junction, in the amount of $11,670. Eagle Welding in Paonia, which designed the staircase, submitted a bid of $12,475. While the town prefers to work with local companies, Eagle Welding was unable to complete the work by year-end, which is necessary for the town to close out the project and bring the one milliongallon tank back online before 2016.

Photos submitted

Dan Burke with the North Fork Ambulance visited the BELA preschoolers at HK-8 before the fall break. The morning class is pictured above (left to right): Finley Ihnot, Valentin Elizalde, Manuel Espinoza, Logan Lovelace, Aspen Lloyd, Kanon Andregg, Mariah Pipher, Dal Adam, Dan Burke, Ian Morris, Milly Naylor, Rachel Smith, Nolan Long and Clay Hollembeak. Below is the afternoon class (left to right): Christopher Glimpse, Katrina Jacquez, Bentley Farmer, Parker Kenniger, Macy Mitchell, Marion Miller, Dani Beall, Dan Burke, Quinn Price, Emily Ludwig, Jynae Scott, McKenna Peebles, Alysia Beyette, Natalie Bayles and Nathan Strong.

SPORTS

Delta County Independent

SPORTS November 18, 2015

Wednesday, November 18, 2015

www.deltacountyindependent.com

Ponce, Brown 3 TDs each

Delta claws Harrison, 47-7

BY WAYNE CRICK DCI Sports Editor

Delta’s Panthers have made their way to this year’s quarterfinal round of Class 3A prep football playoffs. Delta (#3) crushed number seven Harrison, 47-7, in opening-round play and will host The Classical Academy this Saturday at 1 p.m. at Panther Stadium. Delta, 10-1, hosted third-seeded TCA earlier this season (first scheduled game) and claimed a hard-fought 38-35 decision. The Titans, 8-3 and number six-seeded, eased past 11th seed Mead, 4838, to reach quarterfinal play last weekend. Against Harrison’s Panthers, Jonny Ponce paced a multi-faceted offense with 187 yards on 21 carries and scored three touchdowns. Junior Kole Roberts used the airways to complete 10 of 16 passes for a touchdown and 211 yards. Tristan Brown added three touchdowns of his

own in the big win. Delta finished the game with a combined 436 yards of offense. On Delta’s opening drive there were six running plays, all by Ponce, and two of three passing by Roberts to cover the 66 yards in the drive. Ponce started with a run of 10 yards and added runs of 17 and 4 before Roberts connected with Byers for a 22-yard gain to Harrison’s 20-yard line. Ponce finished the drive on runs of 9, 3, and 8, giving Delta an early 6-0 lead with 8:33 left in the first quarter. Harrison began its first drive at its own 20. On the first play, Sam Garcia found Isaiah Tivis all alone and completed a catch-and-run play good for 49 yards to Delta’s 31-yard line. A bad snap to Garcia, who was in a shotgun formation, sailed over his head. The miscue resulted in a big loss all the way back to Harrison’s 35. An incomplete pass,

Photo by Wayne Crick

Harrison High School running backs had to get used to the scene above last Saturday as Delta’s defense stymied the Panthers all game long. Logan Church (55) and Josh Reeder (behind runner) made short work of Harrison’s DeOnte Washington.

followed by a running play for no gain, forced the visiting Panthers to punt the ball away. Following the punt, Delta began its next drive on its own 49. With a steady diet of Ponce, the Panthers used six plays to go 51 yards, with Ponce slashing into the end zone from 9 yards out. A missed extra point left Delta ahead, 12-0. Delta’s kickoff, following its score, carromed out of bounds and provided Harrison with great field position when the ball was put in play at the Harrison 35-yard line. The good fortune of excellent field position did not help Harrison, with the Panthers suffering an uninspiring effort to force a punt. The snap to the punter sailed over his head where he was swarmed under by Delta defenders at the Panthers’ 39-yard line. Delta’s offense had a short-field advantage to begin its next possession

and Ponce rumbled for 13 yards to start the drive. Another run by Ponce moved the ball to the 15. A Roberts-to-Byers pass was good to the 8-yard line and Ponce bruised his way for 6 yards to the 2 on the next play. Brown was wide open in the end zone for a 2-yard toss from Roberts to make the score 19-0 after Ontiveros’ kick sailed through the uprights with 11:07 remaining in first-half play. Harrison had one of its better possessions on its next series, moving the ball from its own 20 to Delta’s 24 before losing the ball on downs. Ponce began Delta’s next possession with a 1-yard loss. On the next play Roberts found a winding pathway to the end zone for a 25-yard scamper with 5:48 left in second-period play. Ontiveros’ kick made it 26-0. Harrison began its series from its 19-yard line. The Panthers had some offensive success

Photo by Wayne Crick

Braden Atchley, a senior wide receiver, cornerback and kick return specialist returns the opening kickoff in last weekend’s 3A state playoff contest against Harrison. Atchley broke his left leg while returning a punt later in the game.

and moved the ball to their 49. Garcia was sacked for a 5-yard loss, forcing a punting situation. Delta senior Braden Atchley collected the Harrison punt and cut to the middle of the field in an effort to elude tacklers. Atchley seemed to jump into the air as contact was made and he landed awkwardly, breaking his left leg. Delta started its next series from its own 29. A pass interference penalty against Harrison, along with a 27-yard scamper by Ponce, moved the ball to Harrison’s 2-yard line. From the 2, it was Brown up the middle for the score with 2:21 left in the period. Ontiveros’ kick made it 33-0. A series of penalties hampered Harrison’s offense to begin its next possession. After running just three plays, the Panthers were forced to punt the ball away. Delta, looking to score 40 points to initiate a running clock, began from its own 19-yard line. A 26-yard pass play to tight end Kory Mills

started the drive. Roberts found Ontiveros for another 41 yards on the next play to Harrison’s 14. The Panthers were flagged for yet another pass interference penalty that moved the ball to Delta’s 7-yard line. DELTA FB TO B6

Photo by Wayne Crick

Delta sophomore linebacker Cameron Schaal (9) slows down Harrison quarterback Sam Garcia in ﬁrst-half action.

Photo by Wayne Crick

Delta running back Jonny Ponce dishes out a little punishment to Harrison defender Jason Nisewaner (27) during ﬁrst-round action of the Class 3A football playoffs. Delta was in control from the start and rolled to a 47-7 win.

Eagles to semis with 47-7 win BY TAMIE MECK DCI Sports Writer

Saturday’s convincing 47-7 win over Burlington puts the two-time defending state champion Paonia Eagles in the semifinal game at Loveland next Saturday, where they will face the team they defeated to win last year’s title. Saturday’s game against the sixth-seeded Cougars wasn’t predicted to be a runaway. “I thought it would be just a hair closer,” said head coach

Brent McRae. “They had a great team, they have a great coaching staff. It’s just that some (Eagles) made big plays. The only time you’re going to get a big win like that is if you make big, long plays, and that’s just what happened.” Senior quarterback/ running back Taylor Walters ran for 232 yards and five touchdowns and passed for 26 yards and one touchdown, beginning with a 1-yard run that capped an 80-yard,

11-play opening drive. On their first possession the Cougars were inside Eagle territory when Tyler Dennison recovered a fumble. Nine plays later, Walters scrambled for another touchdown with 7.1 seconds remaining in the period. “That helped a lot,” said McRae, “because they were driving down on us and we weren’t stopping them.” Burlington’s only touchdown came early in the second quarter when

leading receiver Jett County outmaneuvered the secondary at midfield and broke loose for a touchdown. On the ensuing drive, Walters took advantage of a block by Cyrus MalekMadani to gain 60 yards and put the Eagles inside the 10-yard line. Paonia lost 10 yards on a penalty and took a time out. Upon returning to the field, Dagan Rienks snagged a Walters pass in the end zone for a 20-7 lead with 7:47 remaining in the half. Walters scrambled through the defensive line from inside the 5-yard line with 2:24 remaining in the half for a 26-7 lead. With 25 seconds on the clock the Eagles got the ball inside the 10 on a 60-

yard pass play from Walters to Kayden Seriani. Walters then scored on an 8-yard carry, with Colby Simpson’s PAT giving Paonia a 33-7 halftime lead. A pitch from Rienks at quarterback to Walters resulted in a 28-yard score in the third quarter, and with 1:29 remaining, Trevor Plymale was tackled on a 12-yard carry, stretching across the goal line for the score. McRae gave credit to the seven-member O-line which paved the way for 473 rushing yards, including 159 yards by senior Jeramiah Hillman. “They did awesome,” said McRae. “Up front our line just kept wearing them down, I think that was the biggest thing.”

The defense held Burlington to 153 passing yards and 92 yards on the ground, with Jaden Miller, Willy Darling and Denison combining for four sacks. Paonia will face Resurrection Christian (11-0, 6-0 1A Metro League) at Loveland Saturday. The Cougars advance on a 48-6 win at Meeker and are the only undefeated team in the state playoff bracket. Paonia is no stranger to the No. 1seeded team, after defeating them at home in last year’s state title game, 35-15. “Defense is going to have to work on some stuff,” said McRae. On offense, “we’re going to have to take care of the ball.”

Delta County’s net teams represented well BY ERIC GOOLD DCI Sports Writer

Like many of the athletes from the Delta and Cedaredge High School volleyball teams, I attended this past weekend’s state championship tournament for the first time. The spectacle at the Photo by Tamie Meck Colby Simpson (80) puts up his second of ﬁve extra points in Paonia’s 47-7 Denver Coliseum was quarterﬁnal win over Burlington. The win puts the No. 3-seeded Eagles at No. truly impressive. Sixty teams on five courts, each 1 Resurrection Christian in Loveland.

Class playing out a 12team tournament over two days. The bedlam and organized chaos, the screaming and the shrieking whistles, the hopes and dreams playing out on the courts in front of me... I’ve covered state tournaments in two different states and this one was more memorable than most.

I appreciated the emphasis on FUN. The Saturday morning Chicken Dance by the Shaggers (junior volleyball players who shag balls during matches) was great fun for everyone. The camaraderie and respect for others shown by teams and coaches was refreshing to see. Delta County was STATE VB TO B6

B6 Wednesday, November 18, 2015

SPORTS

Delta County Independent

Paonia in semis; best effort in four trips BY ERIC GOOLD DCI Sports Writer

The Paonia High School girls’ volleyball team posted two wins at the state championship tournament last weekend and reached the 2A semifinals for the first time. While the Eagles fell in three sets to powerful Resurrection Christian, Paonia completed its fourth consecutive trip to the state tournament by going further than any of the previous Eagles teams that made it to the Denver Coliseum. “We played really well. I couldn’t be more proud of them,” Eagles coach Krista Carsten said. “We were playing a team that’s the two-time champ and has been No. 1 all year and we gave them a good run for their money. So I was very proud of our team.” The Eagles lost to Resurrection Christian 2325, 25-27, 19-25. As the scores indicate, the match was in doubt throughout and the sets could have gone either way with a bounce here or a call there. “We played hard. We did a lot of really good things,” Carsten said. “We put up a good block and blocked a lot of balls. They didn’t beat us on hitting. They scored a lot more on tips than they

did on balls that they hit hard. They are a program that’s used to winning and I think we surprised a lot of people.” Senior Taylor Carsten’s ace to open the first set let the Cougars know that the Eagles were not going to be pushovers. A very fast-paced tempo moved the set along quickly and neither team was ahead by more than three in the set. McKenna Hartigan had a block that cut the Cougars’ lead to 23-21 and senior Ashley Van Vleet’s block tied it at 23, but the Cougars took the set with a side out and a kill. Paonia’s best chance came in the second set. Emily Pieper’s kill and a Cougar hit out of bounds gave the Eagles an early 6-2 advantage, then Hartigan had a kill and a service winner that put Paonia up 10-7. Pieper and Van Vleet had kills and Paonia led 15-11. Resurrection Christian rallied to tie the set 17-17 and the score was tied again at 20 after another kill from Pieper. A frantic finish saw another tie at 24 and at 25 before a Cougar kill and a Paonia hit out of bounds secured the set for Resurrection Christian. Paonia sophomore

McKenna Palmer recorded a kill that made the score 12-10, Cougars, in the third set. Resurrection Christian maintained a 2-point lead for most of the set until forcing a Paonia timeout when Resurrection Christian led 19-15. The Cougars were able to secure the match win behind their powerful outside hitting and their strong group of five seniors. “It would have been nice to be in the championship, but the fact that we’re in the semis is a first for us,” Carsten said. “And we have to feel happy about the way we played because we did play well in this tournament.” Paonia won its way to the semifinals with two match victories that did not come easy. The Eagles won the first match of the tournament early Friday morning after defeating Rye 25-16, 22-25, 25-6, 20-25, 15-10. Then the Eagles won the pool with a four-set victory over Union Colony. Paonia beat the Timberwolves 25-23, 25-21, 23-25, 25-17. “We were pretty happy with our pool and our draw,” Carsten said. “We were ready to be here and we were ready to play some volleyball.”

Photo by Eric Goold

Eagles junior McKenna Hartigan (1) knocks home a kill over the block of two Resurrection Christian Cougars during the 2A semifinals in this year’s state volleyball tournament last Saturday at the Denver Coliseum. The Eagles fell in three sets in their first appearance in the semifinals.

Bruin seniors go out winners at state VB BY ERIC GOOLD DCI Sports Writer

The outstanding group of seniors on the Cedaredge High School girls’ volleyball team finished with a victory. Cedaredge beat Kiowa on the second day of the state volleyball championship tournament at the Denver Coliseum last weekend in four sets 25-14, 20-25, 25-19, 2522 and sent the Bruin seniors out as winners. “Not everybody gets to go out on a win,

that’s what I told them,” Cedaredge coach Heather Dunbar said. “I guess that’s a positive of this pool play, they get to go out in their last game and win. They’re awesome. We’re going to miss them so much.” The seniors who helped the Bruins reach the state tournament for the first time since 1989 made their presence felt against Kiowa. In the first set win, Kenzie Henderson had a kill to give the Bruins

a 20-8 advantage, then Lydia Knutson’s tip over the net on game point secured the victory. The third set was tied several times before two kills from Nellie Freeman put the Bruins ahead for good. Amber Jenkins dived for a dig that had the Bruins bench on its feet screaming in the fourth set. Freeman’s tip made it 15-12 for Cedaredge, then Knutson’s kill gave the Bruins an 18-14 BRUIN VB TO B7

of local competition and the three teams that represented the county at state. “It makes me so proud to be on the Western Slope and in our county,” Nelson said. “I just think it’s an amazing thing and it just goes to show that we’re doing things right.” As well as a strong junior program, county high school teams are being fortified by club players who can compete in the sport year-round. “We’re putting a lot of work in during the offseason,” Nelson said. “That’s what gets you to state, is the offseason work. I think all three programs that were here at state put in so much time and it shows. I’m just very proud to be a part of it.” Then there’s Paonia. The Eagles were the veterans of the group from Delta County, going to the state tournament now four years in a row. This year’s team got further than any of them, reaching the 2A semifinals before falling in a very close, competitive match against Resurrection Christian. Eagles coach Krista Carsten has built a program that consistently dominates at every level,

and she, too, noticed that Delta County teams are on the rise. “When one team gets better, the teams around them get better,” Carsten said. “It’s a sign that the level of competition is going up and I think that’s part of the success county teams are starting to see now.” All teams build on the same foundation — good athletes. When it comes to volleyball, Delta County has a plethora of them. “Kids will want to be successful,” Carsten said. “I think the taste of being at the state tournament inspires them to work a little bit harder and put a little bit more time in. I think it’s awesome.” And don’t forget about Hotchkiss. Coach Taralee Williams is enthusiastic and eager to lead a Bulldogs team that will improve dramatically next season after offseason work and a year of consistent program building. The state of volleyball in Delta County is good, and like the teams I covered this past weekend, I’m already planning on a return trip to the Denver Coliseum next November.

State VB

Photo by Eric Goold

Delta junior Ashton Reese (23) rises above her teammates and hits a kill during the Panthers four-set win over Silver Creek last Saturday during Pool 1 play at the state volleyball tournament.

Delta caps fantastic VB year with win in tourney BY ERIC GOOLD

DCI Sports Writer

The Delta High School girls’ volleyball team finished a strong season and showed that there’s more to come from this talented group of Panthers. On the second day of action at the Denver Coliseum, Delta beat a tough Silver Creek team in four sets 25-23, 19-25, 25-16, 25-19 and finished the Panthers’ first trip to the state championship tournament in style.

“I think we had better defense,” Delta coach Beth Nelson said about the key to the win. “I think we did a better job today of taking care of the ball, limiting our errors, and just playing our game and not trying to do too much.” In the first set win, Delta’s sensational junior hitter Emily Baier banged home a kill that put the Panthers in front 19-17. Emily Nortnik’s block kept the Panthers

in front 22-21, then Ashton Reese finished off the win with her kill. Reese led the way early in the third set when her kill put Delta in front 7-6. Dani Sakala’s tip over the net made it 14-8 and forced a Silver Creek timeout. Nortnik’s ace and another kill from Baier made it 18-11, then Reese continued her strong tournament performance with a kill and an DELTA VB TO B7

CONTINUED FROM B6 well-represented in the big city. For the first time maybe ever, three local schools made the tournament: Cedaredge, Delta and Paonia. “That is unbelievable. I’m not sure if that has ever happened,” Cedaredge coach Heather Dunbar said. The Bruins won regional and district championships before capping a magnificent season with a victory over Kiowa in pool play at state. “Our area could be considered as one school for some of these 4A and 5A teams,” Dunbar said. “If we were all one team, we could definitely compete at that level.” A renewed emphasis on junior volleyball is starting to pan out at the high school level, manifesting in the depth of quality teams around Delta County. “It takes building those small programs at the younger ages that makes the difference,” Dunbar said. Delta coach Beth Nelson, who led the Panthers to their first showing at state in the very competitive Class 4A, was impressed by the quality

Delta FB

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CONTINUED FROM B5 With just 8.1 seconds left in the second quarter, Harrison’s Garcia stepped in front of Byers to pick off a pass from Roberts. Garcia gathered the pass in at Delta’s 2yard line and streaked down the right side line for a 98-yard scoring run. With the successful extra point kick the Panthers avoided a shutout with Delta leading 33-7 at halftime. Harrison was first to be on offense in the second half. The defense of Delta was not in a giving mood and completely stifled Harrison to force a punt. Delta’s offense struggled a bit during its first possession of the second half. Needing a big play to

keep its drive alive on a third-and-long from his own 38, Roberts found Brown on a crossing pattern and hit the tall receiver in the chest for a 62-yard pass play for a 40-7 score with 6:31 left in the third quarter. Harrison had limited success on its next possession before senior Stephen Davignon wrecked its plans with a 13-yard sack of Garcia. Later in the same drive, as the Panthers were working their way out of a deep hole, Brown picked off a Garcia pass and returned it to Harrison’s 15-yard line. Ontiveros started Delta’s next possession with an 11-yard run to the 4. From there a 4-yard run gave Ponce his third touchdown of the game and a 47-7 final score.

SPORTS

Delta County Independent

Wednesday, November 18, 2015

Delta VB CONTINUED FROM B6 ace. Sakala tipped over another point and Delta secured the set. The fourth-set victory featured Delta’s Makayla Mills firing a couple aces from the serving line and Reese and Baier booming in more kills from the outside as the Panthers earned a split in their two matches at the state tournament. “I think overall we’re very pleased to split. We’re happy with that. I was bummed a little bit about our seed but we’re excited to be here,” Nelson said. “We’ve never been here before, so for our first time to come here and split, that’s great. Hopefully this leaves a taste in the girls’ mouths and they all want to get back here.” Delta fell to even-

tual 4A state champion Cheyenne Mountain in straight sets 16-25, 9-25, 21-25 on Friday afternoon in the first match of pool play. With the graduation of only three seniors (Shanan Davey, Jade Mahaffey and Tylor Redden) Nelson hopes the Panthers, who will compete in 3A, will be back in Denver next November. “We brought as many kids as we could. We had three freshmen on the bench just so they could be here and experience it,” Nelson said. “It was just a great weekend for our program.” Enhancing the thought of next year is the fact Delta will no longer be at the lower end of its classification and should be very competitive in the various sports programs.

Photo submitted

On the fast track

Salem Shenold, Cedaredge High School; Colten Spencer, Hotchkiss High School; Tell Gore, Hotchkiss High School; Roggen Frick, Hotchkiss High School; and Tyler Denison, Paonia High School, all raced the WEBE series in Colorado, Utah and New Mexico. They also competed in the Moto Mayhem series in Montrose. All the boys had many wins and placed in the top three postions quite often. Salem finished second overall in Iron mini, Colton finished fourth overall and Roggen was fifth in the 200 C class. Tyler finished third overall in the open C class. Tell finished first in the 250 A class and plans on moving up to pro next year.

Bruin VB CONTINUED FROM B6 cushion. Henderson nailed two more kills and the Bruins finished off the match. “That’s what these kids have been known for all year,” Dunbar said. “They just never go away and they never say die. Just hustle, hustle, hustle. That’s what they showed again today.” Cheyenne Stone, Kendall McHugh and Lacey Love were the other three seniors who made it to state for Cedaredge. Standout junior Han-

Photo by Eric Goold

Hannah Gilmore (33) and Nellie Freeman (11) go up for the block against Kiowa’s Helen Janes (21) during pool play at the volleyball state tournament. Cedaredge won this match in four sets, earning the Bruins’ seven seniors a win in their last match.

Henderson to state VB

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Multi-sport star Van Vleet signs track letter BY ERIC GOOLD Three-time state champion Ashley Van Vleet signed a Letter of Intent to run track at Idaho State University last Thursday in the commons at Paonia High School. Also a standout volleyball and basketball player, Van Vleet went with her heart and decided to compete in track at the next level. “It’s really what I love to do,” Van Vleet said after accepting congratulations from family, coaches and friends gathered to celebrate her signing. “I love to run and I kind of get a combination, I can play intramurals, I can run. I’m doing multi-events in track, not just sticking to one, so I’m real excited about that.” The Bengals of Idaho

State compete in the Division I Big Sky Conference. The school is in Pocatello, Idaho. Van Vleet earned a scholarship to attend the school. “I took an official visit with them and loved the college. It’s in a beautiful area,” Van Vleet said. “They have great coaches and great teams.” Van Vleet continues to impress all of her coaches in Paonia. “I’m extremely proud of her,” coach Scott Rienks said. “I’ve been fortunate to work with her in both basketball and track, and this will be my fourth year working with her. She’s very coachable and hard working.” It’s likely Van Vleet could have gone on to play any of the three sports she excels at had she chosen to do so. “She has the abil-

ity that she could have gone to college for basketball and volleyball, too,” Rienks said. “But track is going to be where she will flourish because she’s so talented on multiple levels.” Van Vleet wrapped up her prep volleyball career last weekend at the state championship tournament in Denver and now will hit the hardwood for her senior basketball campaign. After that she’ll finish out her stellar prep career in track as the Eagles go for their fourth consecutive state title. “Of course I’m going to miss Paonia,” Van Vleet said. “I love the coaches and the people. This place is home and all of these people and supporters are family to me, so I’m definitely going to miss it. But I’ll come back.”

Cedaredge to handle in the next-to-last game of the first day at the state tournament and the Bruins fell 14-25, 10-25, 2225. “Yuma is an amazing team and I wouldn’t be surprised if they go ahead and win the whole thing,” Dunbar said. “Our kids haven’t been over here yet and I think we were a little bit star struck coming into the first round. Even though we were smaller I think we could have put up a better showing.”

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Cedaredge’s standout to play in this weekend’s The volleyball match is volleyball player Kenzie All-State Games at Auro- set to be played at 10:30 Henderson was selected ra High School. a.m. Sunday.

DCI Sports Writer

nah Gilmore, who led the team in hitting at the state tournament, will be returning next year hoping to return to state competition. The Bruins, who won two out of three matches against Paonia this season, won their region championship and earned a spot in Pool 2 at the state tournament with Kiowa and eventual 2A state champion Yuma. Yuma, led by 6-foot1 University of Wyoming signee Tara Traphagan, was too tough for

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Photo by Eric Goold

Senior Ashley Van Vleet was all smiles when she signed a Letter of Intent to attend Idaho State University. At left are track coaches Brent McRae and Scott Rienks. Next in line is Ashley, and parents Dave and Tracy Van Vleet. Van Vleet is a three-sport standout at Paonia High School and will compete in track for the Bengals of the Big Sky Conference.

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INDEPENDENT

B8 Wednesday, November 18, 2015

David Fabula

Deacon David C. Fabula died at his home Nov. 12, 2015, a few days before his 61st birthday. He suffered a serious stroke in the spring of 2015. He was born Nov. 14, 1954. He spent the first 39 years of his life in California. He moved with his wife and three sons to Delta where he was deacon at St. Andrew the Apostle Orthodox Church for 20 years. He also served in the diaconate at the regional level. The Fabulas purchased a farm where they raised animals and cultivated several plots of land. Mr. Fabula worked in plumbing and construction, building and renovating houses. He served as a leader in youth camps, in church construction projects in Alaska and in building a substantial part of the Monastery of the Holy Archangel Michael in Cañones, N.M. Mr. Fabula enjoyed the Orthodox faith, helping people and shopping at Delta Hardware. He is survived by his mother, Connie Fabula of La Jolla, Calif.; two sisters, Lisa Fabula of La Jolla, Calif., and Christina Fabula of Fort Bragg, Calif.; his wife of 38 years, Janet Fabula; three sons, Nicholas (Mira Emmanuel) Fabula

OBITUARIES

of Seattle, Wash., Joseph Fabula of Delta and Jesse (Christina) Fabula of Grand Junction; and two grandsons, Jeremiah and Jonah plus one on the way. He was preceded in death by his father, Andrew Fabula. A Panikhida was held Tuesday, Nov. 17, followed by the reading of the Psalter. A funeral service will be held at St. Andrew the Apostle Orthodox Church, 298 Bert Street, Delta, at 10 a.m., Wednesday, Nov. 18, followed by a memorial meal. Taylor Funeral Service and Crematory is handling the arrangements.

Dixie Dickson

attended school in Olathe and Delta, graduating from Delta High School in 1943. On Aug. 2, 1947, she married Charles Dickson in Aztec, N.M. Mrs. Dickson worked as the assistant librarian in Delta until 1978 when she became the librarian for Delta Middle School until her retirement. She was a member of TOPS for many years and volunteered at Delta County Memorial Hospital and Montrose Memorial Hospital. She enjoyed quilting, sewing, traveling, reading, four-wheeling Jeep trips in Ouray, walking, Curves, crafts and painting. She is survived by two sons, Richard (Karen) Dickson of Aurora and James (Valarie) Dickson of Delta; a daughter, Vicki (Michael) Brown of Delta; six grandchildren; 10 great-grandchildren; and one great-greatgrandchild. She was preceded in death by her husband of 38 years, Charles, on Dec. 3, 1984. Taylor Funeral Service and Crematory is handling the arrangements. View the Internet obituary and sign the online guest registry at taylor funeralservice.com.

Delta resident Dixie Dickson died Nov. 14, 2015, at Willow Tree Care Center in Delta. She was 90. A funeral service will be held at 11 a.m., Saturday, Nov. 21, at Taylor Funeral Service Chapel in Delta. A private family interment will be held at Cedaredge Cemetery. Memorial contributions may be made to Delta Public Library, 211 W. 6th St., Delta, CO 81416, or American Cancer Society, 2754 Compass Dr., Grand Junction, CO 81506. Dixie Lola Park was Billy Varner born in Delta Oct. 15, Billy Gene Varner of 1925, to Wesley and Val- Hotchkiss died Sunday, lie (Rhodes) Park. She Nov. 15, 2015. He was spent her childhood and 88. A memorial service will be held at 10 a.m., Monday, Nov. 23, at Taylor Funeral Service Chapel in Delta. Mr. Varner was born on Redlands Mesa Oct. �� 4, 1927, to David and Inez (Widner) Varner. He �� spent his childhood on �� the lower end of Redlands �� Mesa and attended school �� in Eckert, Cedaredge, Delta and Hotchkiss. He �� graduated in 1945. �� He joined the U.S. Army in 1950 and was honorably discharged in 1952. He was a lifelong resident of Redlands Mesa except for the years he was stationed in Korea. He married Frances Hann Oct. 18, 1952, in �� Grand Junction. �� Mr. Varner served on the Durkee Ditch board ��

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Delta County Independent

as well as the Overland Ditch board on which he was president for several years. He enjoyed farming, and coffee and pie with friends and family. He is survived by his wife of 63 years, Frances Varner; three sons, Stan Varner of Delta County, Phil (Debbie) Varner of Craig and Randy (Tonya) Varner of Redlands Mesa; two daughters, Kathy Scott of Mack and Virginia (Paul) Schranck of Durango; one sister, Gail Mohney of Fort Collins; numerous grandchildren and great-grandchildren; and extended family. He was preceded in death by a brother, Elton Varner. Taylor Funeral Service and Crematory is handling the arrangements. View the Internet obituary and sign the online guest registry at taylor funeralservice.com.

Josephina Gallegos

Josephina Gallegos died Nov. 15, 2015, at Delta County Memorial Hospital. She was 66. She was born in Olathe May 28, 1949, to Joe and Alice (Martinez) Paiz. She enjoyed collecting

angels, coloring, sewing and fishing. She is survived by her husband, Tom Sr. of Delta; children, Tom Gallegos Jr. (Missy) and Lisa Gallegos of Delta, and Anthony (Susan) Gallegos of Montrose; her father, Sam Paiz of Olathe; siblings, Georgia (Sammy) Ortega, Lucille (Lugar) Rodriguez and Pavla Paiz; grandchildren, Matthew, Lawrence, Hilari, Cassie, Mycla, Brandon, Zach, Travis, Tyrell and Tanisha; and great-grandchildren, Nichole, Eric and Isaiah. She was preceded in death by her mother, Alice Martinez; and a brother, Manuel Paiz. A funeral service is scheduled at 1 p.m. Thursday, Nov. 19, at Sunset Mesa Funeral Directors. Burial will take place at Olathe Cemetery. A private rosary is planned at St. Michael Catholic Church in Delta. Arrangements are being handled by Sunset Mesa Funeral Directors.

riage ended in divorce. They had three daughters, Kia, Amanda and Kristin. She moved back to Crawford where she married Monty Todd March 20, 2000. She became the stepmother to Brady, Lyndsey and Tristen. Mrs. Todd enjoyed the ranching lifestyle. She was involved with many local organizations. She is survived by her husband, Monty Todd of Crawford; four daughters, Kia (Devon) Packard of Portland, Ore., Amanda Orr and Kristin Orr, both of Grand Junction, and Lyndsey Todd of Crawford; two sons, Brady Todd and Tristen Todd, both of Crawford; a sister, Kay (Darrell) Ashburn of Crawford; two brothers, Glen (Kathy) Filener of Fruita and Cleve (Pam) Filener of Olathe; and extended family. She was preceded in death by an infant sister, Anita Filener; her parents, Dixie and Franklin Filener; and a brother, John Filener. Karen Todd Services were held at Karen Marie Todd died Nov. 9, 2015, at her Heritage Hall Nov. 12. home on Cottonwood Creek Road in Crawford Carol Herman after a three-year battle Olathe resident Carol with brain cancer. She A. Herman died Thurswas 50. day, Nov. 12, 2015, at ColShe was born in Delta orow Care Center. She Feb. 20, 1965, to Frank- was 86. lin and Dixie (Deutsch) Services are pending. Taylor Funeral Service Filener. She graduated from Paonia High School and Crematory is handling the arrangements. in 1983. On June 24, 1983, she View the Internet obitmarried Dale Orr. They uary and sign the online lived in Gresham, Ore., guest registry at taylor for 10 years. The mar- funeralservice.com.

Elouise Ann Fender March 3, 1930 ~ Nov. 5, 2015 Elouise Fender passed away at home on Nov. 5, 2015. She was born to George and Charlotte Hammerich on March 3, 1930, in Glenwood Springs. She graduated from Glenwood Springs High School. Elouise grew up on what is now known as the Bershenyi Ranch up 4-Mile until her parents sold the ranch in 1947. Elouise is survived by her husband, Harold Fender; son, Rick (Priscilla) Jurick of Alaska; daughters, Jody (Dave) Anthes of Basalt and Kristi (John) Gill of Silt; stepsons, Gary (Linda) and Marvin (Roberta) Fender of Silt/DeBeque; sister, Elizabeth Stapelton of Aspen; nine grandchildren, Fritz (Vanessa) Anthes, Josh (Heather) Anthes, Shelly (Seth) Gunter, Wendy

Cooper, Tammy (Mike) Hohenberger, Kevin (Kelly) Fender, Jimmy (Niki) Fender, Chris (Alicia) Fender, Sharon (Jared) Samuelson; and 13 great-grandchildren. Mom spent most of her life in the Roaring Fork Valley; also later in Montana, Crawford and the Monticello, Utah, area. She loved the ranching life, feeding the cows off a team of horses in the winter. One of her greatest thrills was racing her horse Rio in the

Garfield County cow pony races 1987-89. Mom also rode in a woman’s side saddle club in Ennis, Mont. She used her family’s old (1885) side saddle on a horse named Misty. Camping and riding in the mountains of the Roaring Fork Valley, running cows up the Frying Pan, skiing in Aspen, square dancing at 7 Castles with the Crowleys and Sterkers, buying turquoise in the Southwest were also great memories of her. Mom is at home with Jesus now. She requested no funeral — just remember her. “When someone you love becomes a memory, the memory becomes a treasure.” ~ Unknown Cards may be sent to Harold Fender, 167 Fox Run Rd., Rifle, CO 81560. Paid obituary

What’s up at your library?

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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 Computer Class. Optimizing your Gmail account. Learn how to avoid virus infection, how to properly forward an email, get rid of unwanted senders, create email groups and print what you want. Friday, Nov. 27, at 10:30 a.m. Genealogy. Who’s Who in Whoville ... find out who you really are. Friday, Dec. 4, at 10:30 a.m. Crafts Group. Crafters meet each Tuesday at 10 a.m. to share ideas and show and tell. Contact the library at 3997674 for details. Tech Soup Saturday. Bring your devices and your questions. Our expert “techies” will do their best to answer your questions. Saturdays, from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. Crawford Craft Day. Don’t miss a chance to get crafty in your community! Check

with the library for details. Friday, Nov. 20, at 1 p.m. Computer Tutor. Librarians will be available to help you with questions and problems about computers or mobile devices. Just drop in during regular library hours or call ahead for a specific time. Contact the library at 399-7783 for details. Delta Free Heart Health Screenings. Free heart health screenings are being offered at the Delta Library every Monday from 10 a.m. to 5 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. 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. 21, at 11 a.m. Alan “Stands Alone” Bryant: Cherokee Families and Ceremonies. In recognition of

Native American Heritage Month, the libraries are working with Native American Cultural Programs and the Native American Cultural Committee of Delta County to bring this special presentation to the Delta Library. All ages are welcome to attend. Saturday, Nov. 21, at 1:30 p.m. November Book Club. Discuss Harper Lee’s “Go Set a Watchman” in this month’s book club meeting. Saturday, Nov. 28, at 1 p.m. Talk & Tangle Yarn. This is a group of knit and crochet enthusiasts who get together to talk and work on their individual projects. Anyone is welcome to join. Mondays starting at 5:30 p.m. Tech Talk. Bring in your devices and get help from our tech-savvy staff! Every Tuesday at 5:30 p.m. Call the library to find out about this week’s class at 874-9630. Hotchkiss Hotchkiss Book Club. This month’s selection is “Mister Owita’s Guide to Gardening: How I Learned the Unexpected Joy of a Green Thumb and an Open Heart” by Carol Wall. Hotchkiss Book Club meets on the third Wednesday of each month (September through June) at 7 p.m.

at the Hotchkiss Public Library. For more information, contact Diane Winchester at 872-3745. Wednesday, Nov. 18, at 7 p.m. Knitting Group. Do you knit or crochet? Join us for ideas, help and good company. Anyone is welcome to join. Call the Hotchkiss Library to get more information on this group. Wednesdays at 4 p.m. Tech Help. Librarians will be available to help you with questions and problems about computers or mobile devices. Tuesday–Thursday by appointment. Contact the library at 399-7781 for details. Paonia BeyBlades. Teens and tweens, join us for some serious competition and a lot of fun! Friday, Nov. 20, at 4 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 for a writein at the Paonia Library this month. Tuesday, Nov. 24, at 6:30 p.m. Movie at the Library. Come see the much anticipated follow-up movie to “Jurassic Park” on the big screen with your friends and family! Friday, Nov. 27, at 2 p.m.

SURFACE CREEK November 18, 2015

NEWS

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Thanksgiving meals planned BY HANK LOHMEYER Staff Writer

Owners, staff, and probably a few of their own family members as well at the Cedaredge Creekside Café will be boosting the community holiday spirit and hosting a traditional Thanksgiving dinner for everyone this year. There won’t be any charge for the Creekside Cafe event that will take place on Thanksgiving Day from 11

a.m. to 2 p.m. at the restaurant on North Grand Mesa Drive across from the elementary school. Also at another Thanksgiving event, the Surface Creek Senior Citizens organization will be hosting its annual Thanksgiving meal on the day before Thanksgiving, Wednesday, Nov. 25. The senior citizens’ event is at noon at the Civic Center, and there is a suggested donation for the meal.

Food bank seeks help to provide meal gift boxes The Surface Creek Community Services food bank is hoping again this year that local residents, businesses and organizations will be able to contribute to the Christmas Gift Box campaign. In a letter to community sponsors of the project, the SCCS board noted, “It is time for us to ask the community’s support for the Surface Creek Community Services food bank annual Christmas Gift Box project.” The letter goes on to say that with the generous help and assistance of the entire community, the food bank volunteers last Christmas distributed 275 large boxes of Christmas food fixings to our neighbors in the valley area so that they could enjoy a wonderful Christmas with their families. This is a special project. None of the funds from the Christmas Gift Box project are used for the general operations fund. The SCCS board uses only money specifically donated for the Christmas Gift Box project to buy the

food that goes into each family’s gift box. Each Christmas gift box includes a minimum of a turkey, ham or gift card to purchase the meat of their choice. There is also a selection of vegetables, fruit and additional items to prepare a complete Christmas dinner for each family. The SCCS board says it is always on the lookout for the best prices, and each box typically costs around $38. Generous donations from the community are essential to make this project the success it has been for over a decade. Anyone with questions about the food bank or the project can call Ken or Donna Christenson at 856-9692. Donations can be mailed to Surface Creek Community Services at P.O. Box 963, Cedaredge, CO 81413. The food bank asks that donors please make checks out to Surface Creek Community Services and mark checks clearly that the money is for the Christmas Gift Box project.

Wintery scene

Recent snowfalls have provided scenes along the Surface Creek trail of the type that might be seen on postcards or calendar art.

Local letter carrier earns top state honor BY HANK LOHMEYER Staff Writer

Patty Arnold, a letter carrier who works out of the Cedaredge Post Office, has been presented with a statewide award from the letter carriers’ union — the National Rural Letter Carriers Association. The annual Outstanding Member of the Year honor for top-notch work with colleagues and customers is given to only one of the union’s members every year in each state, and in Puerto Rico. Patty attended the union’s

Honoring our veterans BY HANK LOHMEYER Staff Writer

Surface Creek Valley honored its veterans on Nov. 11. An assembly at Cedaredge High School was held to honor veterans and also student writers from the high school and middle school who entered and who won the patriotic essay contests sponsored by the Veterans of Foreign Wars. Winners of the high school Voice of Democracy essay contest were Amara Johnson, Blake Gash and Max Moore. In the middle school division Patriot’s Pen contest, winners were Katie Lindley and Jacob Miller. Commander of the Grand Mesa VFW Post #9221 and Auxiliary of Cedaredge, Gary Tollefson, delivered some remarks to the students about Veterans Day; about the military; and about some history connected with the military services. In a segment from his remarks, Tollefson brought current events to light for the assembled students in terms of President Thomas Jefferson’s

Photo by Hank Lohmeyer

Local Army veteran Ed Douglass was recipient of a recognition honor during Veterans Day events last week for his service.

Photo by Hank Lohmeyer

Student writers named in the Voice of Democracy and Patriot’s Pen essay contest are, from left, Blake Gash, Max Moore, Amara Johnson and Katie Lindley. At right is Gary Tollefson, Commander of VFW Post #9221 which sponsored the contest. military campaign against the participating in the assault of Barbary States that began in Mt. Belvedere, and then on to 1801. Tollefson said, “Over the more heavy fighting through previous 15 years, as a diplo- the Po River Valley in 1945. Another event honoring mat and then as secretary of state, Jefferson had tried to veterans took place later in work with the Barbary States the afternoon. There was a (Tripoli, Tunis, Algiers and reception at Horizons Care Morocco). Unfortunately, he Center at Eckert where vetfound it impossible to negoti- erans were honored with a ate with people who believed ceremony that included famtheir religion justified the ily and friends. The vets were plunder and enslavement of presented with certificates of non-Muslims. recognition for their service in “These rogue states would the armed forces. Those receiving recognition show no mercy, at least not while easy money could be were: Air Force: Jay Hall. made by extorting the Western Powers. So President JefArmy: Richard Fischer, Ed ferson decided to move beyond Douglass, John Hibbert, Joe diplomacy. He sent the U.S. McFadden and Alice Winkler. Navy: John Hawkins, RichNavy’s new warship and a detachment of Marines to ard Miklich, Michael Petecki blockade Tripoli — an act that and Greg Cramer. launched the Barbary Wars Marines: Thomas Balch, and that was the beginning Paul Cook and Wally Rice. of America’s journey toward The Horizons event was future superpower status.” accompanied with a color Also at the school assembly, guard which performed at known to many in Cedaredge, several other Delta County Dick Wellington, who served venues in honor of veterans with the 10th Mountain Divi- that day. The unit was comsion, gave an account of his prised of Cadet Master Sgt. service in the famous unit. He Jones; Cadet Airman Garddescribed the unit’s activities ner; and, Sr. Airman Lyons in World War II after land- of the Civil Air Patrol, USAF ing at Naples, Italy, and then Auxiliary.

annual meeting in Reno, Nev., recently to accept the award. There she was among rural letter carriers from 49 other states and Puerto Rico who also received the honor for their states. She was nominated for the honor by Holly Jones of the Eckert Post Office. Patty said that she was not aware that she had been nominated for the honor by co-workers. She was similarly unaware that former co-workers, supervisors and postmasters she had worked with were submitting written testimonials about her and her work for the union judges who decided on the winners from each state. “I had no idea at all. It was a real surprise,” she told the DCI. The big surprise went even further. As donuts arrived at the Cedaredge Post Office on a recent day accompanied by workers from other offices in the county and a union official, Patty said she was still clueless that something was up involving herself. When the surprise party was finally sprung, and Patty learned that she had earned the outstanding member award, she admits to having teared up a bit with the overwhelming feelings. “I had no clue, no idea, no anything. They did a real good job on me. This is quite an honor,” she said.

Photo by Hank Lohmeyer

Patty Arnold, a letter carrier for 20 years in Surface Creek Valley, is shown in the lobby at the Cedaredge Post Ofﬁce with the statewide honor she recently received from the National Rural Letter Carrier’s Association. Patty said she has carried the mail in Surface Creek Valley for 20 years. She worked for 10 years out of the Austin office and has worked another 10 years from the 81413 location. She has served 450 customers in town and Upper Surface Creek on a regular route for two years. Her years of service also include work on an auxiliary route and as a substitute carrier.

Council endorses gravel haul route BY HANK LOHMEYER Staff Writer

The Orchard City trustees have agreed to send a letter to the Colorado Department of Transportation, endorsing the county’s plans for a gravel truck haul route that eventually will run from the North Road pit to Highway 65 at Eckert. The county is being required by CDOT to apply for an access permit for its 18-wheel, belly-dump, semitractor trailer gravel trucks to use the North Road-SH65 intersection as the primary haul route. Because the intersection is within Orchard City town limits, CDOT requires that the town agree to the county’s plan as a condition of approving the access permit application. Residents and businesses at the intersection have expressed opposition to the route. County officials have said the North Road gravel pit won’t be placed into operation for another four to 10 years. In other business at its

regular Nov. 11 meeting, the Orchard City Town Board dealt with the following matters: Trustees discussed • whether their $1,292 in annual dues to the Colorado Municipal League are being spent in ways they approve of. A recent mailing from the lobbying group offered advice from a college professor on how to spend the public’s dollars on infrastructure projects that are needed because of effects from human-caused global warming. Trustee Craig Fuller questioned the appropriateness of the mailing and its disputed, highly politicized premise being offered as policy advice to CML member governments. Town administrator Melissa Oelke told trustees that the CML does provide useful legal advice on a call-in basis. That gives the town’s membership dues to the organization some economic value, she explained. ORCHARD CITY TO C2

C2 Wednesday, November 18, 2015

SURFACE CREEK NEWS

Delta County Independent

‘Rust Bucket’ earns gold in wine challenge Dan Williams of Williams 2015 World Value Wine Cellars in Cedaredge has Challenge. The honor has come A local wine made by won the gold award in the to Williams Cellars’ 2013 vintage “Rust Bucket,” a red wine made from a locally grown grape — the tempranillo, a black variety that originates from Iberian Peninsula. Rust Bucket got the gold honor and was named �� a “best buy” in the catego�� ry of red wines priced at �� $20 and under. �� According to the Tast�� ings.com website, “The �� World Value Wine Challenge is our annual com�� petition for wines $20 �� and under. This year we �� reviewed over 500 wines �� to find the best-tasting �� wines in four price tiers: �� $20 and under, $15 and under, $10 and under, and �� $8 and under.” Tastings. com describes itself as “The website of the Beverage Testing Institute.” Rust Bucket achieved its “best buy” award along �� with nine other wines in the category including wines from premier wine making areas such as the Columbia River Valley, Paso Robles, Calif., and Monteray County, Calif. At the AppleShed, the wine list describes the vin-

BY HANK LOHMEYER Staff Writer

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tage as “full to medium bodied with low acidity and full fruit flavor, one of the most food-friendly red wines.” The Tastings.com website describes Rust Bucket somewhat more effusively: “Dusty ruby black color. Fruity, jammy oaky spicy aromas of roast plum, toasty vanilla, cherry compote, and spiced orange zest with a bright, dry full body and a warming, complex, medium-long cherry preserves, grilled orange, dried raspberry, and vanilla spice cake finish with medium, soft tannins and moderate oak. Bold and complex, the aromas and flavors range from rich, dried fruit to spice to vanilla to grilled orange with lightly chewy and satisfying tannins, exceptionally well-structured acidity and a finish that balances the fruit and spice.” Wine maker Dan Williams’ wife, Connie, said that she was told by the contest judges that it is very rare for a tempranillo wine to score as high as Rust Bucket did in the contest judging. Rust Bucket scored 92 on the

Orchard City FROM PAGE C1 The trustees decided to discuss the CML membership cost at an upcoming budget work session. They are considering drafting a letter to CML stating objections to receiving unsolicited advice about basing policy decisions on unproven theories like “global warming.” • The town’s water utility reported its best results on stopping treated water losses to date. After accounting for approximately 10 percent loss that is considered unavoidable for a sprawling water distribution system like Orchard

City’s, the water loss audit for October showed a 2 percent unaccounted (i.e. unbilled) domestic water loss. • Trustees voted to deny amended plats for two town subdivisions and a boundary adjustment. The plan will be redrafted by property owners involved and resubmitted at a later time. • Student of the Month for November, Kenzie Henderson, was unable to accept her award in person because she is playing in the state volleyball tournament with her Cedaredge High School team.

contest rating 100-point system. The red wine is Connie’s favorite. So, without telling Dan, she entered a bottle in the contest before they took a recent trip to Texas. On the way home she told him that she had sent in the entry, and when they arrived home, the notice of the award was waiting for them, she explained. The label illustration for the bottle is an artwork by Ron Henry of Grand Junction, an artist whose work is on permanent display at the AppleShed. Henry’s work is titled “Ain’t Goin’ Nowhere.” Other artists, including ones from the valley, also have their works appearing on Williams Cellars wine bottles. Connie noted that the couple’s son, Ty, has won two awards for his hard cider with hops brew called Boondockers.

Photo by Hank Lohmeyer

Rust Bucket, a 2013 red wine by wine maker Dan Williams, has won a national value and quality award.

Chamber gearing up for holidays SPECIAL TO THE DCI From the Cedaredge CofC

The Cedaredge Area Chamber of Commerce is gearing up quickly for what it plans will be the best Surface Creek Valley business holiday season ever, and new year. Following the largest AppleFest to date, acting chairman of the chamber Bill Miller says he intends to keep the momentum rapidly moving in a most exciting, positive and funfilled direction. The chamber is currently recruiting Surface Creek business owners to fill expanded 1-, 2-, and 3-year director positions. The chamber office on Main Street is now open Monday through Friday and is staffed by two new energetic administrators: Tina Soffer and MariEmlie Sweigart. They

are busy organizing the upcoming “Cowboy Christmas” Parade of Lights on Dec. 5. The ice fishing contest on the Grand Mesa will be Feb. 6. Everyone is encouraged to check out the chamber website facelift. Everyone is also invited to stop by the office to pick up the new visitor guide, submit board of director applications or just chat about your ideas for future growth and business support. The public and business community are also invited to the board of directors meeting on Dec. 2, at 8 a.m. at the Civic Center. Meet the board candidates. New chamber officers will be elected at the January meeting. Contact Bill Miller for additional information, 856-6153.

Plants of the Western Slope A look at local flora with Evelyn Horn Sagebrush Another “nothing” bush. But it’s been a favorite of mine for years. We planted some right by the entrance to our yard a few years ago — and found that I’m allergic to it! I grew up on the plains of eastern Colorado, we spent several years in Wyoming, many years in Nevada, and we’ve met a lot of sagebrush here in the Delta area. It just doesn’t seem fair! When in Nevada, I had the opportunity to study botany, and I recall how I scoffed at the professor’s statement that sagebrush is a member of the Sunflower family. It sure doesn’t look like a sunflower! Then he

Photo by Al Schneider© www.sswcoloradowildﬂowers.com

Sagebrush

showed the class a closeup photo of the plant, and it looked a lot like Al Schneider’s photo. Next we went out on the des-

ert to look at the plant with our hand lens: I was amazed! There were the flowers! About 1/16thinch wide; and I could almost make out some of the ray flowers (petals) and a cluster of tiny disk flowers in the center. Note the small insect toward the center of the photo and compare it to the size of the flowers. Later I learned that there were a number of species, often making identification difficult. And so the common names may reflect the size of the plants or their habitat. Ours is “Big Sage” (it grows to five feet tall) with the botanical name Artemisia tridentata. (tri=three-toothed

or lobed, referring to the leaves). I recall meeting the Artemisia arctica in the high country near Gunnison. (I sneezed as I stepped out of the car!) Artemisia was the name of Apollo’s sister. The common names of sagewort and wormwort also occur (wort means a “plant”). But what about wormwort? Its medicinal uses include a tea to expel roundworm and pinworm. A wormer! The introduced plant, Artemisia absinthium was so used. And sage? In the early days of our continent, the pioneers tended to call any aromatic plant a “sage.” No flowers seem to be blooming, but the sage is!

SURFACE CREEK NEWS

Delta County Independent

Wednesday, November 18, 2015

What’s bugging you? Problems of woody plants and their solutions BY JIM LESER Cedaredge Tree Board

Winter appears to be settling in on us as average daily temperatures are decreasing and the first snows have fallen. But before we forget the beautiful fall color display of autumn leaves we so enjoyed leading up to this winter, wouldn’t you like to know why and how leaves change color? Why do some maple leaves turn bright red? Where do the yellows and oranges come from? And why do some oak tree leaves turn brown? Leaves are nature’s food factories. All plants take water from the ground through their roots. They also take a gas called carbon dioxide from the air. Plants use sunlight to turn water and carbon dioxide into oxygen and glucose.

Oxygen is a gas in the air that we need to breathe. Glucose is a sugar. Plants use glucose as food for energy and as a building block to grow. This process is known as photosynthesis. Chlorophyll is what gives plants their green color and it is responsible for the photosynthesis process. As summer ends and fall approaches, the days get shorter and shorter. This is how the trees “know” to begin getting ready for winter when water and sunlight will be in short supply. During winter, there is not enough light or water for reliable photosynthesis. Deciduous trees “rest,” losing stored up food made during the summer months to survive the winter. Leaves are attached to tree branches by stems called petioles. With the approach of fall, an abscis-

sion (separation) layer begins to form where cells swell and begin forming cork-like material, gradually cutting off the flow of water and other substances into and out of the leaf. Glucose and waste products get trapped in the leaf and chlorophyll begins to disappear as water flow into the leaf is cut off. As the bright green fades away, we begin to see yellow (xanthophyll) and orange (carotene) colors. Small amounts of these colors have been in the leaves all along. We just can’t see them in the summer, because they are covered up by the green chlorophyll. The bright reds and purples (anthocyanin) we see in leaves are made mostly in the fall. In some trees, like maples, glucose is trapped in the leaves after photosynthesis stops. Sunlight and the cool nights of autumn cause the leaves to turn this glucose into a red color. Some scientists believe that the anthocyanins help

keep leaves on trees longer, allowing more time for sugars, nitrogen and other nutritious substances to move out of the leaf and into the tree before the leaves fall. The brown color (tannins) of trees like some of the oaks is made from wastes left in the leaves. It is the combination of all these things that make s the beautiful fall foliage colors we enjoy each year. I just finished a brief lesson in the biochemistry of a tree’s food factories, probably more than you cared to learn. But just think, the next time someone talks about the beautiful fall leaf colors, you can now explain what is happening and why. Without this process, deciduous trees would not be able to survive our winters. Photo by Jim Leser Jim Leser retired to The author shot this photo of his Paciﬁc Sunset Cedaredge in 2007 after Maple in full color. a career with Texas A&M University Extension in entomology. He is a memDel-Rose Chorus ber of the Cedaredge Tree Board and a Colorado Sweet Adelines International Master Gardener. Swe proudly presents et ewS I retn itan lano

Sewer plant is halfway built BY HANK LOHMEYER Staff Writer

Work crews with Moltz Construction of Salida had reached the halfway mark last week building Cedaredge’s new mechanical sewer treatment plant. Project administrators and town officials say that the new mechanical plant will be completed and running online by next July. The project is “slightly above budget and on time,” reported staff of the project engineering firm JVA to a group of town officials who toured the project site last week. The work is currently within 5 percent of its budgeted amount, he said.

When the new mechanical sewage treatment works are installed and running, there will still be more to do for completion of rehabilitation of the town’s sewage treatment lagoons. According to engineering documents, the two lagoon containment areas that have been the town’s wastewater treatment system for 30 years will be reworked and put back into use sludge holding ponds. Town officials told the DCI that the project total completion date including submission of all required grants paperwork and adminstrative tasks is the final day of this year.

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C4 Wednesday, November 18, 2015

HEALTH & FITNESS

Delta County Independent

Kevan devotes 28 years as CME chair BY PATTI KALAHAR Delta County Memorial Hospital

Dr. Sam Kevan has an impeccable reputation as the dedicated committee chair for continuing medical education (CME) for some 28 years at Delta County Memorial Hospital, and as an experienced family practice and emergency department physician for well over 30 years. This unassuming, tall, white-haired doctor described how the CME has evolved over the past

Dr. Sam Kevan

couple of decades. “We started out with all continuing medical education jointly sponsored with St. Mary’s, which was the accrediting agency at the time.” Most physicians either attended classes at the hospital or had to travel to professional conferences out of the area to earn CME credit. DCMH worked to become accredited by the Colorado Medical Society starting with a two-year provisional accreditation and then a four-year accreditation in 1989. Being locally accredited to offer CMEs is of great help to area physicians. “DCMH has been very supportive of me as the CME committee chair, enabling me to attend the statewide CME conference each year and also the national CME conferences in order to stay current and updated with changing accreditation criteria,” commented Dr. Kevan.

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Now in the information age, there are a variety of sources for point of care learning, such as online and handheld applications of UptoDate which is a learning resource for all kinds of patient conditions and current treatment protocols that may be accessed almost instantaneously by physicians as they are treating patients. There are also webinars where physicians may log in and go online to earn CMEs. Two major changes in the manner in which CMEs are organized and held have greatly improved the process of offering continuing medical education: 1. Many years ago the pharmaceutical companies frequently sponsored the lectures and speakers for CMEs for physicians. New accrediting criteria require avoiding any kind of bias, and being more accountable through safeguards including faculty and planner disclosure and review of content to avoid any conflict of interest prior to a CME being offered. 2. Performance gaps are being identified so that CMEs are now a vehicle for continuous quality improvement for physicians. As many opportunities for improvement are incorporated into CME lectures as possible, once issues are identified. Then these issues or performance gaps are addressed through education, with the end result to assist in enabling physicians and the ancillary staff to provide the highest quality health care to the patient as possible. Dr. Kevan observed that in the 1980s and 1990s top faculty with the University Hospital, in association with the University of Colorado, traveled to the Western Slope to do a lecture series at the hospitals in Montrose, Delta and Grand Junction which were always well received. Many regional referral specialists in Grand Junction have made presentations to DCMH medical staff over the years. He mentioned that the lecture format for CMEs is still popular and allows a chance to interact in a group format where physicians can share and discuss relevant medical topics. Dr. Kevan also mentioned tumor board,

an example of case-based learning, which is a more recent addition to the CME programming at the Delta hospital. Specific cancer cases are discussed among surgeons, oncologists, radiologists and other medical professionals so they may all share and learn from each case and provide the best treatment for the patient. In recent years the Delta County Memorial Hospital CME program, in collaboration with the CME departments and trauma coordinators from Montrose, Community, and St. Mary’s hospitals, has hosted a spring trauma conference to help Western Slope physicians and EMS providers keep up to date on trauma management and earn the needed credits to maintain their accreditation in the state trauma system. Dr. Kevan has had a two-phased medical career beginning in family medicine in Riverton, Wyo., Lewistown and Chinook, Mont., and later in the Delta and Rifle areas. He was one of the original physicians to start the 29-year-old Delta Family Physicians clinic.

While working in family medicine and obstetrics, he has had the privilege of delivering over 1,000 new babies to local families. The second phase of Dr. Kevan’s medical career began in 1995 when he started working in emergency medicine at both the Delta and Rifle hospitals. He continued to contribute as a physician at least part time in family practice until 2014. Dr Kevan also earned certification in sports medicine from the American Board of Family Medicine in 1995, and for the past 20 years has been attending high school sporting events to assist as a physician in case of injuries. As one observer noted, Dr. Kevan is quick to act. If someone falls or is injured, he is there right away checking to make sure that person has no serious injuries that need immediate attention. This unassuming and kind doctor has also been a medical volunteer with his regional church missions group, traveling to Cambodia, Liberia and Haiti in recent years to provide medical services to underserved areas.

Care matters

Drowsy driving is risky business BY JODY ROEBER, CCO Delta County Memorial Hospital

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Photo submitted

October was Residents Rights Month, a nationally-recognized event designated by the National Consumer Voice for Quality Long-Term Care to honor residents living in all long-term care facilities, including nursing homes, sub-acute units, assisted living, board and care and retirement communities. Above, Dean Sullivan (left), Ed Douglas (standing right), and Randy Thompson (sitting right) stand in front of a message board highlighting why long-term care matters. To learn more about Residents Rights Month, long-term care, and the “Care Matters” campaign please visit www.region10.net/blog.

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Dr. Kevan is married to Lana and they have four children and eight grandchildren. He participates athletically as a runner, completing five marathons and just as many half marathons and other local running events. He also rides his bicycle in the annual Pea Green Pedal. Dr. Kevan has been part of a barbershop quartet and chorus for many years and enjoys singing in the Valley Symphony chorus. He is also one of the pianists and organists at Delta United Methodist Church. In his spare time he is an avid gardener and amateur wine maker, raising his own grapes. Dr. Kevan is a pilot who loves to fly. Overall, this remarkable physician has devoted his life and committed his energies to helping others in a myriad of ways, both personally and professionally as a physician and educator. “Thanks to Dr. Kevan from Delta County Memorial Hospital for all you have done for this community hospital, for physicians and for all of your patients over the years,” stated Jason Clecker, CEO.

Drowsy driving is a growing problem in the United States leading to thousands of accidents annually. The tragic outcomes of drowsy driving are sobering; data indicates that 80,000 people fall asleep at the wheel each day resulting in over 250,000 automobile accidents each year. Over 20 percent of all serious transportation injuries are related to sleep (American Academy of Sleep Medicine). These accidents are typically single-car accidents, in which the driver himself is the victim. People who are sleep deprived behave in a manner that is similar to people who are drunk. To avoid sleeprelated accidents do the following: 1) avoid driving when sleepy; 2) be sure to get enough sleep the night before a long trip; 3) travel with a passenger; 4) take a power nap; 5) or schedule a break every two hours or 100 miles. (National Highway Safety Traffic Administration). According to DrowsyDriving.org, groups that are at increased risk of the consequences of drowsy driving include: • Young people, especially males under age 26. • Shift workers and people with long work hours. Working the night shift increases your risk

by nearly six times; rotating shift workers and people working more than 60 hours a week need to be particularly careful. • Commercial drivers, especially long-haul drivers. At least 15 percent of all heavy-truck crashes involve fatigue. People with untreated obstructive sleep apnea have been shown to have up to seven times increased risk of falling asleep at the wheel. • Business travelers who spend many hours driving or may be jet lagged. Are You at Risk? Before you drive, consider whether you are: • Sleep-deprived or fatigued. • Suffering from sleep loss (insomnia), poor quality sleep, or a sleep debt. • Driving long distances without proper rest breaks. • Driving through the night, mid-afternoon or when you would normally be asleep. • Taking sedating medications (antidepressants, cold tablets, antihistamines). • Working more than 60 hours a week (increases your risk by 40 percent). • Working more than one job and your main job involves shift work. • Drinking even small amounts of alcohol. • Driving alone or on a long, rural, dark or boring road.

HEALTH & FITNESS

Delta County Independent

Wednesday, November 18, 2015

Understanding and coping with COPD BY KRYSTAL MEJA, LPN DCMH Pulmonology

As our weather has clearly informed us, it’s Novemburrrr which is also COPD Awareness Month. Working for Delta County’s two pulmonologists, Dr. Sara Knutson and Dr. Marcela Abuid, we have many patients with COPD. The majority of patients have received the diagnosis from their primary care provider (family doctor), and then come to see us for management and further care.

Marcela Abuid, M.D.

Sara Knutson, M.D. A COPD diagnosis can be very overwhelming to each person we see, whether it’s getting the confirmation of having COPD or a new medication regimen or lifestyle change needed to maintain healthy lung functions. Proper education about COPD is vital to our patients and their

loved ones to ensure they are able to continue enjoying daily life without limitations. We find confusion lies in the many misconceptions about COPD. So let’s debunk the wrong information with some basic correct information. Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) is a chronic inflammatory lung disease that causes obstructed airflow from the lungs. Symptoms include having a hard time catching your breath or a breathing difficulty, chronic cough that may produce a lot of mucus or sputum, wheezing (a whistling sound when you breathe) and chest tightness. It’s caused by long-term exposure to irritating gases or particulate matter, most often from cigarette smoke but not limited to that; air pollution and chemical fumes are also known causes. Emphysema and chronic bronchitis are the two most common conditions that contribute to COPD. With chronic bronchitis the airways in the lungs become inflamed, causing them to thicken or swell. The muscles around the airways also tighten up, making the airways even smaller so less air is able to flow through the airways. Daily coughing often occurs because the airways produce a lot of mucus. That coughing is how the body gets rid of mucus. Emphysema means that the tiny air sacs in the lungs (alveoli) have been damaged. This damage doesn’t happen overnight. Over time, exposure to irritants, most commonly smoke, damages the alveoli, which you need to breathe. This may make a person with emphysema feel “out of breath” even after mild

activity, like walking. COPD is treatable! With proper management, most people with COPD can achieve good symptom control and quality of life, as well as reduced risk of other associated conditions. Most people have mild forms of the disease for which little therapy is needed other than smoking cessation. If you have symptoms of COPD and a history of exposure to lung irritants — especially cigarette smoke — your doctor may recommend pulmonary function tests. Spirometry is the most common lung function test. During this test, you’ll be asked to blow into a large tube connected to a spirometer. This machine measures how much air your lungs can hold and how fast you can blow the air out of your lungs. Spirometry can detect COPD even before you have symptoms of the disease. A chest X-ray can show emphysema, one of the main causes of COPD. An X-ray can also rule out other lung problems or heart failure. A CT scan of your lungs can help detect emphysema and help determine if you might benefit from surgery for COPD. CT scans can also be used to screen for lung cancer, which is more common among people with COPD than it is among those who smoked but didn’t develop COPD. An arterial blood gas analysis measures how well your lungs are bringing oxygen into your blood and removing carbon dioxide. Your pulmonologist may use several kinds of therapies and medications to treat the symptoms and complications

AC Foundation continues the Delta Doves mission The Delta Doves Organization for Breast Cancer has turned over its mission of providing breast imaging examination to the AC Founda-

5 years at DCMH

Rochelle Somers (above) and Billy Moss were recently recognized for ﬁve years of employment at DCMH.

tion, its director, Cody Carlson, and founding member, Annie Carlson. Delta Doves has been in existence for more than 18 years. Generous donors provided funds for women in Delta County who could not afford mammograms. AC Foundation will continue this service and provide two additional services for women in need. The first additional service is arm sleeves for women who have had breast cancer surgery. Many women suffer from lymphedema after surgery and the sleeves provide support and help control swelling to the arm.

The second service is funding for fuel to transport women to their radiation treatment appointments. Delta Doves has also chosen to provide a one-time donation to HopeWest to care for women with breast cancer. The Delta Doves’ original mission to provide mammograms to the women of Delta County will not change. What has changed is more women have health insurance that will cover the cost of mammograms. To donate to the AC Foundation, call Annie Carlson at 874-9615.

Drawing held during Breast Cancer Awareness Month DCMH patients who had a mammogram during October — Breast Cancer Awareness Month — were entered into a drawing for two gift baskets. Winners were Judi Tapey for first place and Lori Atchley for second place, both of Delta.

The two gift baskets were put together from donations from radiology and mammography technologists as a way to demonstrate their appreciation to their patients. The hospital also contributed a pair of movie tickets for each basket.

of COPD, including oxygen therapy, cardiopulmonary rehab, bronchodilators and inhaled corticosteroid medications which can reduce airway inflammation and help prevent exacerbations. For people who have a moderate or severe acute exacerbation, short courses of oral corticosteroids prevent further worsening of COPD. Here are a few simple steps to help you and your loved one with COPD maintain a happy, healthy lifestyle and slow down lung damage: Control your breathing. Talk to your doctor or respiratory therapist about techniques for breathing more efficiently throughout the day. Exercise regularly. It may seem difficult to exercise when you have trouble breathing, but regular exercise can improve your overall strength and endurance and strengthen your respiratory muscles. Eat healthy foods. A healthy diet can help you maintain your strength.

Avoid smoke and air pollution. In addition to quitting smoking, it’s important to avoid places where others smoke. Secondhand smoke may contribute to further lung damage. Other types of air pollution also can irritate your lungs. See your doctor regularly. Stick to your appointment schedule, even if you’re feeling fine. It’s important to steadily

monitor your lung function. that we’ve Now cleared those falsehoods about COPD, let’s open that dialogue window for you to speak with your pulmonologist about your symptoms or how to better manage your COPD. To set up an appointment to see a Delta County Memorial Hospital boardcertified pulmonologist, please call 874-7668.

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C6 Wednesday, November 18, 2015

AGRICULTURE

Delta County Independent

PHS grad competes on college meat judging team BY TAMIE MECK Staff Writer

Abby Campbell, a junior agriculture business and economics major at West Texas A&M University, recently partici-

pated in the Cargill High Plains Intercollegiate Meat Judging Contest held Nov. 10 in Friona, Texas. Campbell is a 2012 graduate of Paonia High School.

In the A-Division contest, the five-member WTAMU team placed first in beef judging, third in specifications, third in beef grading, and fifth in reasons to

Livestock association banquet set for Dec. 5 The Delta County Livestock Association will hold its annual banquet on Saturday, Dec. 5, at the Hotchkiss Elks Lodge. Enjoy cocktails at 5:30 p.m., dinner at 6:30 p.m. There will be a prime rib dinner catered by the Hightower Cafe, followed by music and dancing by North Fork Country. In addition, there will be a raffle as well as live and silent auction items. Auction

items include two rifles, .22 ammunition, paintings and more. Dinner is $27.50 if you RSVP and pay by Nov. 30. It will be $35 at the door. Please RSVP and pay to Delta County Livestock Association, P.O. Box 2071, Hotchkiss, CO 81419. The banquet helps support the DCLA scholarship fund. This year the association gave $6,000 in scholarships to five seniors from

all four high schools in Delta County. Come out and help support agriculture in Delta County while enjoying an evening of good food and music. By supporting Delta County Livestock Association, you are helping support the agricultural community, helping keep habitat and open spaces in the county and helping to make agriculture continue to be prosperous.

garner first place overall with 4,141 points. The Division II team placed first in the contest, ahead of D-I schools including Colorado State University, which placed second with 4,135 points, and third-place Oklahoma State University with 4,132 points, according to a press release from WTAMU. The University of Wyoming and Kansas State University, also Division I schools, rounded out the top five placers. In all, 38 contestants representing six teams participated in the contest. This marks the first win since moving into competition with Division I schools, said Dr. Ty Lawrence, director of the University Meat Laboratory. Until the late 1990s the school competed with smaller division schools. In individual awards,

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Abby Campbell, third from right, is a member of the West Texas A&M University meat judging team that recently won the regional intercollegiate contest. Campbell earned a fourthplace high individual, second in total placing, fourth in specifications, sixth in beef judging, and sixth in pork judging. Campbell is a fifthgeneration member of the Campbell ranching family and the daugh-

ter of Calvin and Tracy Campbell. “We’re very proud of the team,” said Lawrence, who credits hard work for the win. Students “all saw the classes in the same manner and function very well as a team.”

Return FSA county committee ballots by Dec. 7

Before the storm

Photo by Sue Morris

Sue Morris captured this photo of Cedaredge and the Surface Creek Valley just before a storm brought the ﬁrst snows of the year to the area.

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Farm Service Agency (FSA) Administrator Val Dolcini announced that the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) began mailing ballots to eligible farmers and ranchers across the country for the 2015 FSA County Committee elections on Monday, Nov. 9. Producers must return ballots to their local FSA offices by Dec. 7, to ensure that their vote is counted. “County committee members represent the farmers and ranchers in their communities,” said Dolcini. “Producers elected to these committees have always played a vital role in local agricultural decisions. They are essential to the daily operation of nearly 2,200 offices across the country. It is a valued partnership that helps us better understand the needs of the farmers and ranchers we serve.” Nearly 7,700 FSA County Committee members serve FSA offices nationwide. Each committee has three to 11 elected members who serve three-year terms of office. One-third of county committee seats are up for election each year. County committee members apply their knowledge and judgment to help FSA make important decisions on its commodity support programs;

conservation programs; indemnity and disaster programs; emergency programs and eligibility. Producers must participate or cooperate in an FSA program to be eligible to vote in the county committee election. Approximately 1.9 million producers are currently eligible to vote. Farmers and ranchers who supervise and conduct the farming operations of an entire farm, but are not of legal voting age, also may be eligible to vote. Farmers and ranchers should have begun receiving their ballots the week of Nov. 9. Ballots include the names of candidates running for the local committee election. FSA has modified the ballot, making it more easily identifiable and less likely to be overlooked. Voters who do not receive ballots in the coming week can pick one up at their local FSA office. Ballots returned by mail must be postmarked no later than Dec. 7. Newly elected committee members and their alternates will take office Jan. 1, 2016. For more information, visit the FSA website at www.fsa.usda.gov/elec tions. You may also contact your local USDA Service Center or FSA office. Visit http://offices.usda. gov to find an FSA office near you.

Agreement helps forest agencies work across boundary lines The USDA Forest Service (USFS) and Colorado State Forest Service (CSFS) – a service and outreach agency of Colorado State University – have finalized an expanded federal-state partnership that will indefinitely enable and increase management efforts on federal lands. The Master Good Neighbor Agreement fosters a collaborative approach and leverages state resources to accomplish work across land ownership boundaries onto National Forest System lands. Eligible projects include those that protect water supplies, manage bark beetles, reduce wildfire risk and meet other forest management objectives. Under the agreement, the CSFS will have the authority to conduct forest treatments on the 11 National Forests in Colorado, complementing work on state and private lands. The CSFS is working on a similar agreement with the Bureau of Land Management (BLM). Colorado is now only the fourth state to finalize the forest manage-

ment agreement between state and federal forestry agencies; the Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources signed the first of such agreements with the USFS in August, and in the past two weeks similar agreements were signed in Michigan and Texas. “The Good Neighbor Authority allows effective sharing of limited resources to achieve landscape-scale impacts that mitigate fire risk, improve forest health and reduce risk to life and property,” said Mike Lester, State Forester and Director of the Colorado State Forest Service. While the U.S. Forest Service takes action on National Forest lands, the CSFS works with private landowners to help them meet their management objectives to achieve healthy forests. For further information on the Good Neighbor Authority, visit http:// www.fs.fed.us/farmbill/ gna.shtml. For information directed at private landowners seeking to achieve healthier forests and reduced wildfire risks, visit www.csfs.colostate.edu.

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November 18, 2015

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FOR RENT – NEWER 3 BR, 2 BA, 2-car garage in Delta. $1,000/mo.; deposit $1,000. Available after Nov. 20. Call (970) 261-1540. (2x45)

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HELP WANTED THE CITY OF DELTA Police Department in Delta, Colorado is now accepting applications for Police Officer. Applicants must be POST certified. Patrols an assigned beat in the enforcement of law and order and prevention of crime; takes intensive field and basic training in the early period of employment. Necessary special requirements are: High School Graduate; possess a valid Colorado driver's license or able to obtain within 30 days of hire; State certified in law enforcement or ability to acquire; must be 21 years of age or over at time of hire; will be required to pass a detailed background and criminal record check, a psychological exam, physical agility test, physical, written test and a pre-employment drug test. The starting salary is $19.70 per hour plus an excellent benefits package. Please submit application and supplemental application to: The City of Delta, Human Resources Department, 360 Main Street, Delta, CO 81416. Application, supplemental application and complete job description available at City Hall or on the web at www.cityofdelta. net. Incomplete applications will not be accepted. Deadline for applications is 5:00 p.m., December 1, 2015. EEO (2x46) PEOPLE LOOK FOR JOBS in the classifieds. 874-4421

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THE FAMILY OF MINNIE Anderson would like to thank all who sent cards, flowers, and attended Minnie's memorial service November 13, Robert E. Anderson. (1x46)

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D2 Wednesday, November 18, 2015 HELP WANTED IT MANAGER – DELTA County Libraries, salaried, 32-40 hour exempt position. We are seeking a dedicated leader and team player to provide management, planning and oversight of the District's information technology and security systems. Requirements: Bachelor's Degree in Information Technology or related field required, Master's Degree preferred, 3 years handson experience in computer help desk operations and/or network administration in a business/government computer network environment, knowledge of Microsoft Windows and Mac products, knowledge of computer hardware, peripherals and software applications. Full job description and applications available on the Library District website: www.deltalibraries.org/ Apply online or for more information, call Lea Hart at (970) 399-7878. (2x45) NORTH FORK AMBUlance is seeking a qualified Bookkeeper/Office Assistant for part-time work encompassing bookkeeping, general clerical support, answering phones, membership data entry, customer service and board meeting minutes & records. Proficiency in accounts payable, accounts receivable and payroll is required. Must be versed in accounting software and Microsoft Office. Grants management preferred but not required. See complete job description on our News page at www.northforkambulance.com/news. html Please send cover letter and resume electronically to ksteckel@northfork ambulance.com or by mail to: North Fork Ambulance, PO Box 127, Hotchkiss, CO 81419 to arrive on or before November 30, 2015. (2x46)

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PUBLIC SERVICE

BECAWS! DONATIONS needed. Credit cards accepted. Call 970-5273350, or visit cawsonline. org. Delta County Citizens for Animal Welfare and Shelter (CAWS)

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)

DELTA FOOD PANTRY needs meals for Delta WOMEN ONLY AA MEET- families who are temporarings, Delta. Wednesdays, ily in need. Donations of 5:30 p.m., closed non-perishable food may (Alcoholics only) at Friends be brought to 628 Meeker. of Bill W. Club, 897 Palmer. (tfx36) Saturdays, 11:00 a.m., open KEEP THE (others may attend) at St. HELP!!! Luke's Episcopal Church, animal population under 5th & Palmer (back door). control, and SAVE an animal's life. Adopt your new (tfnx3) cat or dog from the Delta FREE DIAPERS FOR UP County Humane Society. to one year! Pregnant Adoption fee is minimal. women in Delta County can Call 874-2149. (DCHS) now get help to quit smoking and get something they THERE IS A VFW MEETING can really use after their on the first Monday of each baby arrives — free diapers. month. At 6 p.m. there is a Healthy moms have healthy potluck and the meeting is at babies. Enroll in the Baby & 7 p.m. at the IOOF Hall, 860 Me Tobacco Free program Hwy 92, Delta. For further today. Contact the Delta information, call 874-8172 County Health Department Jim Baker, Quartermaster. at 874-2165 or your local (tfx12) physician. (TFNx2) BECAWS! ADOPT A DOG SUPPORT THE DELTA or cat today. Call 970-527Public Library. Give a gently 3350, or visit cawsonline. used book in the Downstairs org. Delta County Citizens for Animal Welfare and Book Store. Shelter (CAWS) WELCOME RETURNING Veterans, Post 9221 VFW CHAPTER, UNITS OF DAV meets at 5:00 p.m. on the regular meetings on the 4th Thursday of each month second Monday of each in Cedaredge. To find out month at 7 p.m. at the how to participate in pro- Veterans Building, 15th & moting patriotism and Howard, Delta. For further assisting veterans, contact information, call Paul Carter Wayne Hamrick, (970) 250- 874-5150. (tfx19) 1180. (tfnx23) ARE YOU NEW TO THE AARP DRIVER SAFETY Delta area? Stop by the Course. Save on insurance, Delta Area Chamber of keep up on newer traffic Commerce at 301 Main St. laws, learn defensive driv- for you FREE Welcome Bag, ing techniques. For details filled with goodies, samand schedule contact John ples, discounts and commuLoring (970) 856-6924 or nity information, courtesy of Chamber members and (970) 424-1778. sponsored by Kim GuthrieHOTCHKISS-CRAWFORD Burch of Re/Max Today. Historical Museum. Winter hours, Saturdays 1-4 p.m. YOU HAVE THE POWER TO thru December 24. $3 admis- change a child's life! sion or free to members. Children are waiting for Come see our museum at senior partners in Delta 2nd & Hotchkiss Streets in County right now! Can you Hotchkiss. 872-3780. (tfx44) spare 3 hours a week? We need your help! Call today CHECK OUT THE BOOK for more information. Please store at the library. You'll volunteer to spend time with find a great selection of a child in our community. paperbacks at reasonable Partners of Delta, Montrose prices. and Ouray, 874-4661, www. partners-west.org. or www. IF YOU LOVE BOOKS, deltayouth@montrose.net. you will love the Downstairs (tfx13) Bookstore in the basement DELTA HAS A BOOKof the Delta Public Library. store in the basement of NARCOTICS ANONY- the library featuring gently mous meets at 9th and used books and magazines. Palmer, Delta, Mondays and Come check it out! Fridays at 8 p.m. (tfnx5)

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

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THE AMERICAN RED Cross needs you. Become one of the Red Cross volunteers who says, “We’ll Be There, Because Help Can’t Wait!” Call your local Red Cross Chapter at 970-2424851 or 1-800-HELP NOW for information on the difference you can make in someone’s life as a disaster volunteer. ((TFNx4)) YOUR LISTING HERE! call now... 874-4421

PUBLIC SERVICE 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 and visitors are encouraged to dress professionally and bring a note pad and a willingness to learn and be challenged. Find us on facebook.com & twitter.com - search "Latent Resources", or call James at 970-9019463. HEALTHY BABIES START with early prenatal care. Delta County Health Department. Offers access to immediate, temporary Medicaid for pregnant women who qualify. 8742165. (tfx25) BOOKS MAKE GREAT stocking stuffers. Find books at great prices in the basement of the Delta Public Library. ADVERTISE TODAY!

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Classified Ads are where people look for jobs! Call 874-4421 to place your ad now.

MISC.

Colorado Statewide Classified Advertising Network To place a 25-word COSCAN Network ad in 83 Colorado newspapers for only $350, contact your local newspaper or call SYNC2 Media at 303-571-5117. HELP WANTED MISCELLANEOUS Can you dig it? Heavy Equipment ATTENTION HUNTERS/Fur Harvesters!!! Petska Fur Operator Career! We Offer Training and Certifications Running Bullrunning routes in your area. dozers, Backhoes and Excavators. Will buy (or trade gloves) for Lifetime Job Placement. deer/elk hides, antler or fur. VA Benefits Eligible! www.petskafur.net, 1-866-362-6497 308-750-0700.

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Delta County Independent

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D4 Wednesday, November 18, 2015

CHURCH

Delta County Independent

Imogene Pass Run commits $60,000 to communities The Imogene Pass Run board of directors held its annual meeting on Oct. 28 to discuss the status of the iconic race, now in its 42nd year. On Sept. 12, 1,277 runners completed the 17.1mile run from Ouray to Telluride. The race first debuted in 1974 when a group of six local runners followed Rick Trujillo across the 13,114’ pass and descended into Telluride in just over 2 hours and 21 minutes. Throughout the ’80s and ’90s the race continued to grow in popularity, but it was not until 2001 the number of entrants exceeded 1,000 runners. Winning times over those years ranged from almost three hours in

the years when weather impacted the trail at the summit (sometimes as much as 8 inches of fresh snow at the summit) to the course record set by Matt Carpenter in 1993 with a time of 2:05.56. In recent years the number of women entering has nearly equaled the number of men, with the women’s course record being held by Keri Nelson with a time of 2:35.49. Now, with online signups and registration capped at 1,600 entrants, the race typically sells out within 45 minutes, with a few local stragglers entering by mail in the weeks before the race. A hallmark of the Imogene Pass Run is both

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the level of community involvement in helping to put on the race as well as the amount the run gives back to the community by way of donations to various community organizations on both sides of the pass. Over 200 volunteers man the six aid stations on the course as well as help to pass out runners’ bib numbers before the race, organize the starting area in Ouray, and assist the runners at the finish line in Telluride. Several of the aid stations are manned by local high school runners and athletes from schools on both sides of the pass. At their 2015 annual board meeting, the seven board members elected to distribute over $60,000

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from the race revenues to community organizations and scholarships to local students. As in past years, the track and field programs at the Telluride, Ouray and Silverton High Schools will each receive $5,200 to help purchase equipment for their teams. The Girls on the Run Program for the Western Slope will also receive $2,000. Local Nordic and downhill ski programs from Telluride, Ridgway and Ouray will each receive monetary contributions of as much as $2,500, while various area search and rescue squads, including those in San Miguel and Ouray counties, receive donations in recognition

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spring of 2016. Alpine Bank continues its generous financial support of the race that allows the race organization to continue to generously give back to the community. The board elected to raise the entrance fee for the 2016 race from the current $75 per runner to $80 per runner to reflect both the higher costs associated with the race, as well as to ensure that the race can continue to donate almost 50 percent of its annual revenues to scholarships and local organizations. The next running of the event will be on Saturday, Sept. 10 and registration will open in early June 2016.

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of their service on the mountain during the race. In addition to donations to community organizations, the Imogene Pass Run sets aside money each year to fund scholarships to local track and field/cross country athletes from area schools. Last year, the board awarded $15,000 in college scholarships to eight area runners from Ouray and Telluride. This year, the board again committed to fund scholarships for students and established a longterm dedicated scholarship fund of $50,000 for future recipients. The board looks forward to receiving applications for scholarships in the

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SERVICE DIRECTORY

Delta County Independent

Wednesday, November 18, 2015

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D8 Wednesday, November 18, 2015

BACK PAGE

Delta County Independent

B A C K

Driven to P A serve gladly G E

Photos by Hank Lohmeyer

Joan and Roger Rhodes prepare the delivery for a stop in their Meals on Wheels route. The couple have been volunteering their time with Meals on Wheels for 25 years. They and others in the valley provide a valuable service to local residents. The visit of only a few minutes may be the only direct human contact the client will have with others that day, illustrating the considerable social beneﬁt the program provides.

BY HANK LOHMEYER

Staff Writer

ecoming part of a small community means connecting with people. There is no surer way for someone to know they’re making a positive difference and connecting with the heart of a community than to find an avenue of service. The people who volunteer as drivers for the Meals on Wheels program for Surface Creek Senior Citizens know exactly what that means. In fact, as important as the Meals on Wheels hot meal deliveries are to the people who receive them, drivers say they get more in personal fulfillment out of providing the service than their clients do. Meals on Wheels volunteer drivers enjoy the intangible benefits of esteem and genuine appreciation they receive from volunteering. Three days each week, the drivers volunteer their time, their vehicles and their gasoline to deliver hot noontime meals to other members of their community who are homebound. The dedication and contribution made by Meals on Wheels drivers is the same at all of the meal sites that provide the service. This article focuses on the Surface Creek Senior Citizens program. Local program managers say that in winter some of the volunteer drivers travel south to enjoy the season in a milder climate. That risks creating gaps in the delivery program, a service essential to people’s physical health and social well-being. Roger and Joan Rhodes

Seniors in the Surface Creek Valley are always glad to see these visitors at their front doors. Jeanne and Richard Palmer are two of the volunteer drivers who deliver nutritious, hot meals to homebound people for the Surface Creek Senior Citizens program. The volunteer service is a joy for the Palmers and for others with community spirit who sign up as drivers a few hours per month. have been delivering Meals on Wheels hot lunches in the valley for 25 years. They started in 1991, and in a recent week they drove the route north of Cedaredge. Their six stops included a lady with Alzheimer’s, a couple who have been active contributors to the community for years, and a woman who lives alone. “Some of them just want to greet you at the door, and others want you to come in and visit for a while,” explains Roger. “You just have to get to know how each one is different,” Joan adds. One client on last week’s route was a woman who is suffering with macular degeneration. It was the first time the Rhodes had delivered to her, so Joan went to the door with Roger, who

One of the Surface Creek Senior Citizens Meals on Wheels program coordinators, Myrna Bertram, aids volunteer drivers with their route lists as they prepare to leave with the insulated carriers that keep meal deliveries at the proper temperature in transit to seniors’ homes.

usually makes the door deliveries alone — Joan serves as the driver. The lady asked them in, and they visited for a few minutes about her medical condition before heading off to the next delivery stop. Another stop was at the home of a couple who have been very involved in community activities for years. Now that the couple doesn’t get out as much, the Rhodes and other Meals on Wheels volunteers provide a small but much appreciated “thank you” from the community for the couple’s many years of service. At another stop, Roger spoke with the son of a woman with Alzheimer’s. “She began declining about 15 years ago,” Roger said. The Rhodes have been constant and reliable friends through her ordeal. Delivery days and routes for the Meals on Wheels program are completely compatible with almost anyone’s schedule, whether an individual or a couple want to volunteer to deliver meals several times a week or just once or twice a month. There is also a need for substitute drivers, and there are never any payments to collect or accounts to keep. The Rhodes, who moved to the valley from Boulder 30 years ago, found out about the program from neighbors. “The program needed help,” Roger explained. “We had the time and were glad to chip in.” Now, 25 years later, they are still a part of the valuable Meals on Wheels community service effort. The program provides much more than an essential nutritional benefit to people. Some of the stops are at the homes of people who live alone and may not see or have any interaction with another person that day, except for the Meals on

JoAn Hanson, right, is lead cook at the Surface Creek Senior Citizens meal site. She and Volunteers of America staff member Misty Paul begin their days at 7 a.m. preparing meals for seniors. They are shown ﬁlling and sealing the hot meal trays that Meals on Wheels drivers will deliver to their stops that day. JoAn, who has done the job for almost 20 years, recognizes the importance of the Meals on Wheels program and the value it has for people. “They might not get a hot meal that day otherwise,” she said. Wheels driver. The benefits of delivering meals are as real for the drivers as they are for their clients. Richard and Jeanne Palmer are both Cedaredge natives. They have been delivering meals for about a year. “It’s fun,” says Richard. He and Jeanne note that the people they deliver to truly appreciate what the drivers are doing for them, and they show it. Dennis and Natalie Meisinger are also volunteer drivers for the program. Their enthusiastic attitude exemplifies the spirit of this local service-to-others program. Natalie says that making

the deliveries is thoroughly enjoyable. Dennis notes that the couple has become “one of the family” to the people they deliver meals to. “You really do become just like one of the family,” Natalie said. “And even the family dog is glad to see you when you arrive,” added Dennis. “We get more out of it than they do,” the couple agree. Anyone interested in volunteering with Meals on Wheels is advised to stop by the Cedaredge Civic Center, Tuesday through Thursday, from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. and talk with the program managers, visit with drivers, and learn more about the program.

Roger Rhodes talks about some of the considerable personal fulﬁllment that comes from volunteering for Meals on Wheels as he keeps track of the route list while his wife Joan does the driving.