Delta County Independent, Dec. 30, 2015 by Delta County Independent

NORTH FORK TIMES

SURFACE CREEK NEWS

HUMBLING EXPERIENCE

SPORTS

HOLIDAY WARMTH

Bell ringing provides opportunity for empathy, gratitude, B1

Christmas feast brings community members together, C1

DELTA COUNTY

PLAY RESUMES JAN. 8-9 Cedaredge, Paonia set the pace for local basketball teams, B6

DECEMBER 30, 2015 VOL. 132, NO. 52

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INDEPENDENT

www.deltacountyindependent.com

Delta Family Center supports parents BY PAT SUNDERLAND Managing Editor

Classroom doors are closed and the hallways are silent when concertgoers pass through the doors of the Delta Performing Arts Center for an evening concert. There’s a totally different vibe during the day, as Delta Family Center serves as the hub for over 11 onsite community education programs. The historic building at 822 Grand Avenue was built to house high school students, and later was home to Delta Middle School. The construction of a new middle school

lies in Delta County. Fedler is an employee of Delta County Joint School District #50, which facilitates the BELA preschool at the Delta Family Center, as well as the preschools in the elementary schools in Paonia and Hotchkiss. In collabora-

directly to the south threw open the door for exciting new opportunities to serve the educational needs of children and adults. Angela Fedler, director of the Delta Family Center, explains the center’s 11 programs are all dedicated to supporting families. Some of the programs are offered through Delta County Joint School District #50; others are the result of “some really amazing partnerships,” Fedler said. Delta Family Center is the recipient of nine grants that finance all the work done in support of fami-

tion with the Colorado Preschool Program, the school district also funds some paid tuition slots in Crawford and Cedaredge. The school district is also responsible for the Backpack program, headquartered at 822 Grand, which supports

parents in their role as their child’s first and most important teacher by providing tubbies filled with educational games, books and activities. The Family Resource Center is the umbrella for a variety of programs that support and FAMILY CENTER TO A3

Fort partnership deemed a success the cabins clean and to keep track of the furnishings and Between the removal of the inventory. School tours are offered in invasive tamarisk and Russian olive trees, and the cre- the spring and the fall. In 2015, ation of a tepee village, Fort 1,850 fourth graders from Uncompahgre looks much dif- 70 area schools and over 400 ferent than it did a year ago Delta County Backpack kids when the Interpretive Asso- spent a day at the fort. Miller Photo by Pat Sunderland ciation of Western Colorado said she wants to expand the (IAWC) took over operation of education footprint of the fort, English language learners Paw Eh, Paw Khu, Lae Sari, Ku Ku, Lah Ku Paw and Ban Paw Too perhaps by utilizing tepees sing a Karen carol at a Christmas celebration that featured a potluck of ethnic dishes. In conthe city-owned attraction. The coming year will bring as outdoor classrooms, offer- junction with Delta County Libraries, the Delta Family Center offers three levels of English additional changes, IAWC ing day camps, or scheduling as a Second Language classes — beginning, intermediate and advanced. “Some students director Chris Miller and some overnight camp experi- have attended for a number of years,” said ESL teacher Danielle Carré, “working on ﬂuency IAWC board president Jody ences. A GOCO grant will be and their reading and writing skills.” Students represent a variety of countries, from Iran to Kliska explained during an used to explore the feasibil- Madagascar, and speak a variety of languages, from Spanish to Chinese. ity of establishing an outdoor update to Delta City Council. The fort season will be learning lab known as the expanded to include the Two Rivers Discovery Center. Two additional grants month of October, and instead of being open seven days a were received, including a week, the fort will be closed Colorado Water Conservation Sundays and Mondays. Tour Board grant that funded the guides will be used for school tamarisk removal. The other events; volunteers will be is pending with the National trained to provide public Park Service Grant Foundaproject as presented last week posal is called “The Gateway BY HANK LOHMEYER tours. One of the volunteers tion, and would be used for new would encompass an overall Project.” This third arm is Staff Writer has already been hired as a directional and interpretive A proposal for boosting plan to create economic diver- envisaged as promoting and PARTNERSHIP TO A3 the local economy with a $49 sity in the wake of lost coal developing a mix of lifestyle part-time fort curator to keep amenities tied to the local million program supporting mining jobs. Ultimately, the proposal outdoor environment. They organic food production, building tourist amenities, and cre- will require acceptance and would include enhancements ating lifestyle enhancements support by the governor’s such as water recreations to attract young entrepre- office, attendees were told. The near downtown for paddle neurs from other places has presentation made last week boarding and other popular at Delta City Hall involves water sport activities, a new been finalized. hotel and conference center, If accepted by the state, the three main components. • The first would be to commercial developments plan aims to bring $1.4 million per year into the county develop an “organic center of and housing. As explained, from state government. That excellence.” The Better City the mix of lifestyle attracmoney would then free up presentation envisages here tions and business enterprise other funding to pay for a five- a “Silicon Valley of Organics.” infrastructure would attract a to 10-year program of county The presentation noted that young working demographic economy-boosting projects. the organic food industry does called “the creative class.” Members of the creative They would focus on organ- not currently have a leading ic food production, market- production area; Delta Coun- class, with their technology ing and processing; tourism ty’s organic enterprises could and networking skills, would produce a critical mass of and recreation; and develop- fill that role nationally. • A second component of entrepreneurship and create ing and marketing lifestyle amenities to attract a young the plan would involve the new business enterprises in former CSU Rogers Mesa the area. They would come to demographic. The proposal, developed research station. It would low-cost Delta County from by consultant Better City of become the location of “world- places like Boulder where, Ogden, Utah, was presented class facilities” developed at it was noted, costs of starton Dec. 22 to a group of com- the site for food processing and ing businesses have become munity leaders representing manufacturing. The facilities extremely high. At last week’s presentation, the City of Delta, Delta Coun- would allow entrepreneurs to ty, Delta County Economic develop processes and tech- there was an hour-long review Development, Region 10, and nologies tied directly to the of the Better City proposal the Colorado Department of county’s organic food produc- for local officials. That was tion enterprises. Businesses followed by a second showing Local Affairs. The Better City economic to participate in the venture with State Rep. Yeulin Willett in attendance and with State study and proposal have been would be heavily recruited. Sen. Kerry Donovan listening • A third component of the funded by a federal grant. The Photo submitted ECONOMIC PLAN TO A3 estimated $49 million Phase I economic diversification proA re-enactor mixed up hot cocoa for Christmas at the Fort.

BY PAT SUNDERLAND Managing Editor

$49M plan to boost local economy readied

INDEX

Accent ........................... A4 Activities ....................... A7 Agriculture .....................C6 Back Page ................... D6 Business ........................ A8 Church ............................B4 Classifieds .................. D1-2 Editorial ......................... A2 Legals ......................... D3-4 North Fork Times ........B1-4 Obituaries ......................B5 School Zone .................. A6 Service Directory ........ D5 Sports .............................B6 Surface Creek News ...C1-5 TV Listings ..................C4-5

Chimney fire reported

Holiday closures

Free legal services

On Tuesday morning, the American Red Cross responded to a single-family house fire on Hillcrest Drive in Delta that displaced one adult. According to Jamie Head, Delta Police Department, the blaze was confined to the chimney. The homeowner had extinguished the fire by the time police and firefighters arrived on the scene. The Red Cross has launched a multiyear campaign that seeks to reduce home fire deaths and injuries by providing free smoke alarm installation. Visit www. ColoradoRedCross/firesafety for details.

City of Delta offices will be closed New Year’s Day. Devil’s Thumb Golf Club will also be closed Jan. 1. Bill Heddles Recreation Center will be open 5:30 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. New Year’s Eve and noon to 5 p.m. New Year’s Day. Trash pickup that normally takes place on Friday will be delayed until Saturday. The Delta County Courthouse and North Fork Annex will be closed New Year’s Day. Early deadlines will be in effect at the DCI — ad space must be reserved by 10 a.m. Thursday, Dec. 31.

The Delta County Bar Association conducts pro bono (free) clinics for low income individuals who wish to discuss legal issues (other than criminal). The clinics are held in Delta every Wednesday from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. in Room 118 of the Delta County Courthouse (in the basement). In Hotchkiss, free legal services are available the first Wednesday of each month in the North Fork Annex, 196 W. Hotchkiss Avenue. An attorney will be available from 9:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. No appointments are required; clients are seen on a first-come, first-served basis.

A2 Wednesday, December 30, 2015

OPINION

LETTERS ALL local businesses contribute to our economy Dear Editor: I am writing in response to the letter submitted by Mike Drake, president of the Paonia Chamber of Commerce, which appeared in the Dec. 16 issue of the DCI. Mr. Drake certainly makes some valid points and his general concept of “Collaboration will help strengthen our economy” has valuable merit. However, there are facts and ideas stated in his letter that are misleading. When it comes to using Cherry Days and Downtown Day as an example of community success due to businesses and the Paonia Chamber of Commerce working together, he is erroneously taking credit for a success for which the Paonia Chamber of Commerce deserves absolutely little or no credit. Mr. Drake states, “Cherry Days, Downtown Friday, and the Paonia Holiday Festivities exceeded business’ expectations. These events demonstrate how the chambers and businesses can work together on multiple local events to attract large audiences to main street businesses.” With regard to Cherry Days and Downtown Day, I want to point out that the Paonia Chamber of Commerce has not been involved with the planning and implementing of Cherry Days since 2012. After the disastrous Cherry Days of 2012, the chamber relinquished its hold on the longstanding community event and a group of volunteers took over. The group named themselves Cherry Days 4-Ever, which I have been a part of since its inception. Mr. Drake is correct in stating that teams achieve more than the individual. The group of volunteers I have had the absolute pleasure of working with over the past three years is outstanding. The core group includes Paonia natives (such as myself) and newcomers, business owners and coal miners, and representatives of other civicminded organizations such as the Paonia Lions Club and North Fork Rotary. The Paonia Volunteer Fire Department has continued to be one of our strongest supporters, always willing to help where needed. The Paonia American Legion continues to support Cherry Days by leading the 4th of July parade and posting our nation’s colors in the park. The Cherry Days 4-Ever group has pulled together

with the goal of continuing Cherry Days with its long-standing traditions and honoring the aspects of the North Fork Valley that make it unique, including our agricultural and ranching heritage, our deep coal mining heritage, our very talented arts and music community, and the flavor of small town life we all cherish. Of course, none of the successes Cherry Days has experienced would be possible without the amazing, continued support of the business community — not only in Paonia but throughout the valley and Delta County — and the many volunteers who give their time and efforts during Cherry Days. The event is truly a community event! With regard to Downtown Day — in 2015 our group reached out to include the Paonia Chamber of Commerce in helping implement and promote Downtown Day. I spoke with Mr. Drake on one occasion regarding this effort and then with their office secretary. The chamber presented us with the idea that one of their representatives would contact every business on Grand Avenue from Third Street to First Street and Cherry Days representatives would contact the businesses off Grand Avenue. When it came down to crunch time, it was discovered that several of the businesses on Grand had not been contacted by the chamber. Information on businesses that the chamber had reached out to was not made available in a timely manner in order to promote their planned activities in the way the Cherry Days committee would have liked. Our group paid for the entertainment provided in Poulos Park and for all of the advertising involving Cherry Days. Needless to say, I was very disappointed in the resulting efforts on behalf of the chamber. I’m a believer in stepping up and following through. If you can’t meet the commitment, then don’t make it. Downtown Day was a success because of the number of businesses that participated and put forth efforts to decorate their storefronts and host a variety of events to entertain and support the public. That didn’t happen because of anything the Cherry Days group did or anything the chamber did. It happened because of the business community. The Cherry

Days 4-Ever group simply helped set the stage and provided musical entertainment. Mr. Drake states, “The chambers of commerce provide LEADERSHIP, ADVOCACY and ACTION. The chambers are the catalysts for a thriving, diverse and vibrant business economy that supports our valued quality of life.” I would like to challenge the Paonia Chamber of Commerce as to the quality of leadership and who, exactly, are you advocating for? From my perspective, I do not see the chamber as being all inclusive to the business community and ALL aspects of our economy. The question isn’t, “Who are the members of the chamber of commerce but, rather, who are not?” If you look through the Business Directory on the chamber’s website, you will see many longstanding, mainstream businesses are missing and are no longer members. I think the chamber should be asking why. What value do businesses get from membership dues? If the chamber does not know the answer to those questions, I encourage the chamber board to visit those business owners who are not members and ask them why they haven’t renewed their membership in several years. They may not like the answers, but those answers are critical to the chamber’s goal of becoming an all-inclusive entity formed to promote ALL COMMERCE in Paonia. Mr. Drake is correct, our economy is struggling. Times are difficult and many businesses are struggling to stay alive and remain profitable. Retail businesses, grocery stores, auto parts stores, variety stores, hardware/lumber supply stores, printing companies, trophy shops, all restaurants, the coal mines, cleaners/laundromats and other types of businesses are all important and critical to our economy. We ALL need to succeed, not just the Creative District, or the wineries, or the art galleries, or the organic farmers and farm-to-table ventures. It takes every single one of us to support our local economy and help our neighbors and business friends succeed. So remember Delta County — Put your Money Where your Heart Is and Shop Local! Happy New Year! Tina Walker President Cherry Days 4-Ever

The American dream has come to an end Dear Editor: The American dream ended on Nov. 6, 2012, in Ohio. The second term of Barack Obama has been the final nail in the coffin for the legacy of the white Christian males who discovered, explored, pioneered, settled and developed the greatest republic in the history of mankind. A coalition of blacks, Latinos, feminists, government workers, union members, environmental extremists, the media, Hollywood, uninformed young people, the “forever needy,” the chronically unemployed, illegal

aliens and other “fellow travelers” have ended Norman Rockwell’s America. You will never again outvote these people. It will take individual acts of defiance and massive displays of civil disobedience to get back the rights we have allowed them to take away. It will take zealots, not moderates and shy, not reachacross-the-aisle RINOs to right this ship and restore our beloved country to its former status. People like me are completely politically irrelevant, and I will probably never again be able

DELTA COUNTY

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to legally comment on or concern myself with the aforementioned coalition which has surrendered our culture, our heritage and our traditions without a shot being fired. The cocker spaniel is off the front porch, the pit bull is in the back yard. The American Constitution has been replaced with Saul Alinsky’s “Rules for Radicals” and the likes of Chicago shyster David Axelrod along with international socialist George Soros have been pulling the strings on their beige puppet have brought us Act 2 of the New World Order. The curtain will come down but the damage has been done, the story has been told. Those who come after us will once again have to risk their lives, their fortunes and their sacred honor to bring back the Republic that this generation has timidly frittered away due to white guilt and political correctness. Gary Herby Delta

Delta County Independent

We must all work together to address climate issues Dear Editor: COP21, the “council of parties” that included some 194 nations, has concluded in Paris and agreed to reduce greenhouse gas emissions significantly over the coming decades, with most countries, including the U.S., submitting plans to accomplish this. We are the highest per-capita GHG emitter and second, behind China, in total national emissions. Unfortunately, the cumulative promised reductions, if they all happen, would only take us about halfway to where we need to be to stabilize warming at a target of 2 degrees Centigrade, to prevent catastrophic impacts of climate change. And some scientists warn us even that that may be too much. In the meantime the public’s scientific ignorance on the subject may be abating somewhat with polls showing that some 70 percent-plus of the U.S. population now accepts human-caused (by fossil fuel burning) global warming as a fact, but unfortunately still does not rate the issue high upon the list of immediate concerns, probably because the worst impacts are possibly a century or more away. Others, like Jim Andrews in the DCI last week, still mix a breathtaking misunderstanding of science, denial of basic physics, political ideology, and conspiracy theories to ignore the problem altogether. Some think that we can sit back and wait for either technology, nature, or God to save us from our own folly. Many who accept what the science, as compiled and analyzed in the periodic IPCC reports, tells us, shrug and either see the battle as ultimately lost or too large for the individual to do any-

thing about. But as 2016 begins, I would suggest that the one thing you can do that will really matter is to support and vote for political candidates, be they local, state or national that possess a basic understanding of climate science and the will to act positively, since dealing with this huge issue will involve all of us working together including coordination of government on all levels. This has already begun on the international level with the IPCC and COP meetings, but it also needs to be working from the bottom up, including with you and your family and the towns in Delta County. Even your ditch company and social organization. Depending upon your

point of view, humancaused global warming/ climate change is either the greatest challenge the world has ever faced and/or the greatest opportunity to come together, embrace and support one another and glorify God, however we define the word. Consider — while Jesus made it clear that we are not to “tempt” (test) God by demanding that he catch us when we willfully leap from a high place, God tests us all the time by allowing us free will, including the free will to dig up and burn fossil fuels. Now we have been shown the longterm consequences of this action we are tasked to act in a moral manner to set things right. Will we fail the test? Thomas Wills Hotchkiss

Global warming ‘news’ Dear Editor: From the Associated Press: “The Arctic Ocean is warming up, icebergs are growing scarcer and in some places the seals are finding the water too hot, according to a report to the Commerce Department from the Consulate, at Bergen, Norway. Reports from fishermen, seal hunters and explorers all point to a radical change in climate conditions and hitherto unheard-of temperatures in the Arctic zone. “Exploration expeditions report that scarcely any ice has been met as far north as 81 degrees 29 minutes. Soundings to a depth of 3,100 meters showed the gulf stream still very warm. Great masses of ice have been replaced by moraines of earth and stones, the report continued, while at many points wellknown glaciers have

entirely disappeared. “Very few seals and no white fish are found in the eastern Arctic, while vast shoals of herring and smelts which have never before ventured so far north, are being encountered in the old seal fishing grounds. “Within a few years it is predicted that due to the ice melt the sea will rise and make most coastal cities uninhabitable.” This AP report was published in The Washington Post on Nov. 2, 1922 — 93 years ago! How many decades are we going to listen to “climate change” nonsense before we finally discredit it? Computer models are only as good as the data inputted and, in addition, are unable to account for nature’s compensating/balancing actions. Bruce Many Eckert

Law enforcement blotter

From the Delta and jailed on a warrant with a $750 bond in addiPolice Department: tion to charges of identity theft, theft and unauDec. 21: Anja G. Farnese, 18, thorized use of a financial of Montrose was arrest- transaction device. ed and jailed for alleged Dec. 24: Denis A. Coolidge, 43, DUID and careless driving after being in a one- of Montrose was issued vehicle crash involving a a ticket for alleged theft utility pole in the 1600 and possession of drug block of H38 Road. The paraphernalia. Patricia Andrews, 79, car was on fire. Delta Fire responded and extin- of Delta was issued a guished the fire. Delta ticket for alleged followCounty Ambulance Dis- ing too closely after being trict transported one to in a two-vehicle crash on Delta County Memorial E. 3rd Street at Meeker Hospital where she was Street. No injuries were released a short time reported or observed. later. The vehicle was Both vehicles were driven from the scene. towed from the scene. Tyrell F. Cross, 32, of Brianna A. Bermudez, 29, of Delta was arrested Montrose was arrested and jailed on three war- and jailed for alleged rants totaling $3,750 theft, violation of bail bond conditions and bond. unlawfully carrying of a Dec. 22: Shariot J. Overturf, concealed weapon. Robert J. Thibodeaux, 25, of Delta was issued a ticket for alleged failed 46, of Delta was arrested to yield right of way at and jailed on a warrant a stop sign after being with a $300 bond. in a two-vehicle crash at Dec. 25: Fernando David Orte3rd and Palmer streets. No injuries were reported ga-Huerta, 26, of Delta or observed. Both vehi- was arrested and jailed cles were towed from the for alleged violation of a protection order. scene. Dec. 26: Dec. 23: Emmett L. Wells, 33, Holly A. Brooks, 27, of Delta was issued a ticket of Delta was arrested and for alleged disobedience jailed for alleged theft. of a red signal light after He is being held on a being in a two-vehicle $15,000 bond. crash at 5th and Main Dec. 27: James E. Sheldon Jr., streets. No injuries were reported or observed. 35, of Delta was arrested Both vehicles were driven and jailed on a warrant with a $2,000 bond. from the scene. Kelly F. Turner, 31, of Jacob G. Jones, 30, of Delta was issued a tick- Delta was arrested and et for alleged failed to jailed for alleged harassyield right of way at a ment. Citations: 10 tickets stop sign after being in a two-vehicle crash at 12th for traffic violations were and Howard streets. No issued this week, two for injuries were reported or speeding. Please remember: All observed. Both vehicles were driven from the criminal charges are merely an accusation scene. Anthony N. Domin- and the defendant is preguez, 38, of Eckert was sumed innocent until or arrested and jailed on a unless proven guilty. warrant with a $50 bond. From the Delta Tallon R. Schaublin, 18, of Delta was arrested County Sheriff’s Office

(partial list):

Dec. 21: Deputies were called to assist with a child custody situation involving a father from Wichita, Kan., whose son is living with relatives in the area. Dec. 22: A Hotchkiss area man called to report a neighbor’s dogs were chasing his cattle. At about 5:30 p.m., Zachary Patterson, 16, was involved in a singlecar accident on Highway 65 just north of Cedaredge. Patterson lost control of his vehicle on the icy roadway and it slid 30 to 40 feet down a steep embankment. Patterson was not injured. The Colorado State Patrol arrived on scene to handle the investigation. A Hotchkiss area man reported his ex-wife would not leave his home; she says she has no place to go. Dec. 23: An Eckert resident reported a suspicious incident involving a cut phone line. A60-year-old Hotchkiss area resident reported she’d been bit by a dog. Dec. 24: A .410 shotgun was reported missing from a truck, possibly while it was parked at a Solar Court address. A two-vehicle accident was reported on Highway 50 in the Delta area at about 5 p.m. One of the vehicles rolled, trapping the occupants. There were no serious injuries. The Colorado State Patrol arrived on scene to handle the investigation. Dec. 25: A Christmas snowstorm caused several accidents, none involving serious injury. One of the accidents was a head-on collision on Minnesota Creek Road outside of Paonia at around noon.

LOCAL NEWS

Delta County Independent

Family center

Wednesday, December 30, 2015

Economic plan

FROM PAGE A1 assist parents in enriching their child’s life. Two types of countywide home visitation programs reach out to parents wherever they feel most comfortable. Onsite, the Family Resource Center administers an Energy Outreach of Colorado grant to help families pay their energy bills — even if they have no children. Fedler sees this program as a way for the school district to develop relationships with families who do have children. “We have discovered many people have no idea how many services we have to offer to a family, and it helps get them in our doors,” she explained. “They see we can be a partner in helping them succeed.” Among those services are Medicaid/CHP+ application assistance, Cooking Matters nutrition/fitness classes, and an after-school health and fitness program for students in grades K-5, delivered in their schools. Next year, the CATCH health and fitness program will expand from Garnet Mesa/Lincoln elementary schools to Paonia and Hotchkiss K8 with financial support from the Colorado Health Foundation. Incredible Years is a 14-week parenting class that teaches parents how to employ positive reinforcement skills to help their children succeed. BELA preschool teachers receive some of the same training, to help them deal with problematic behaviors by promoting students’ social/emotional competence. ESL classes are offered through a partnership with the Delta County Libraries. Often while the parents are in English class, their children are attending preschool. Head Start has had a long-standing partnership

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with the school district. Head Start offers morning and afternoon classes to about 60 children, who share playground space and food services with the BELA preschoolers. Because the playground is so heavily used, Fedler said more equipment will be installed this spring. There’s a strong emphasis on “kinder readiness,” to make the transition to kindergarten successful for every preschooler. Four times a year, PACT (Parent and Child Together) time features fun activities for parents and children. The Head Start classrooms are located on the second floor, along with some BELA preschool sections, speech/language therapy offices, the Delta Academy of Applied Learning, a contract school within 50J

Photo by Pat Sunderland

Moving the entrance to the front door has been a step in the right direction to ensure student/staff safety. “Now we can see everyone who comes in the door,” said Angela Fedler, who oversees both the Family Resource Center and the BELA preschool which serve parents and children at the Delta Family Center, 822 Grand Avenue in Delta.

Partnership FROM PAGE A1 signs at two Old Spanish Trail trailheads in the area. The name of the fort has been tweaked a bit, to highlight the historic significance of its location. It’s now known as Fort Uncompahgre on the Old Spanish Trail. The name is reflected on a new fort brochure, revised Google maps (with the new address of 440 N. Palmer Street), a revitalized website and a Facebook page. Four YouTube videos were produced to showcase the fort. Volunteers have been important to the success of the fort’s operation, Miller and Kliska said. The fort has 27 volunteers who worked in the gift store, restored the native plant garden, served as re-enactors, and did a

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

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that serves grades 6-8. The second floor conference room is used for a variety of purposes. And of course there’s the auditorium, available for community events as well as school assemblies and music programs. With a large stage and generous seating capacity, the auditorium is a unique asset for the entire county. Every room on both the first and second floor is being employed in helping the Delta Family Center make a difference in families’ lives. “We’re still learning how to describe what we do,” Fedler said. “Educating the community as to the vast resources available to them across our county and the impact these resources may have on their students’ education are among our top priorities.”

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wide range of repairs and maintenance. “Our volunteers donated 1,282 hours, and are an excellent reflection of the Delta community,” Miller said. “They’re not only a great reflection on the community, but the value of their commitment can be used to leverage grant funds,” Kliska added. They briefly addressed the financial aspect of fort operations, saying the first year IAWC provided a $10,000 subsidy to get the endeavor up and running. Miller believes they’ve been able to identify ways to cut costs and balance the budget without an ongoing contribution from IAWC. The only cost to the city has involved basic maintenance. “We knew going in that the fort couldn’t sustain itself as a living history museum and get the bills paid,” Miller said. “We knew we needed to add value to an underutilized asset.” Her goal is to plan special events that give folks a reason to return to the fort several times during the year. Some of those events, such as “Meet Me at the Fort” and “Christmas at the Fort” featured re-enactors such as flintnappers, blacksmiths and trappers. Going forward, IAWC is looking for additional opportunities for highway signage. IAWC is planning an event to be held in conjunction with the National Old Spanish Trail Conference to be held in Grand Junction in July. There’s also a possibility of a full-time VISTA employee in cooperation with the Montrose BLM office. Miller also plans to pursue congressional designation for the fort as a “National Historic Trails Interpretive Center,” further leveraging the connection with the Old Spanish Trail. Both IAWC and the city expressed a desire to continue their partnership, with the goal of breathing life into the fur-trading post established by Antoine Robidoux in the early 1800s.

FROM PAGE A1 in by speaker phone. Better City principal Matthew Godfrey conducted the computerized presentation remotely via speaker phone. Officials at the Delta presentation said the proposal hinges on the state’s acceptance of the concept, and especially of the funding component. That critical piece of the proposal was explained as a “swap” of roadways that would result in CDOT taking over Delta’s ownership of, and bond payments for, the alternate truck route. Stating that there is precedent in the state for the idea, Godfrey proposed that Delta “swap” its truck route and its associated debt obligation to CDOT in return for the city taking ownership of Highway 50 through downtown. The City of Delta would save money by eliminating its bond payments on the truck route (an amount stated at the meeting as $1.4 million per year). Those savings would then be used instead as seed money and local grant match money to help fund the $49 million Phase I projects in the Better City proposal.

Youth invited to Noon Year’s Eve party Delta Elks Lodge #1235 is hosting a Noon Year’s Eve extravaganza for youth. Boys and girls of all ages are invited to the event Thursday, Dec. 31, from 11 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. There will be music, pizza, games, a bubble wrap stomp and a sparkling cider toast at noon. Decorate a magnet from Fat Cat Pottery to take home with you. Celebrate the new year with a fun, free event at the Delta Elks Lodge.

At the Delta meeting there was a sense of urgency that quick action is needed to get the proposal finalized and presented to the governor. The project needs to move forward, said one attendee, “before the story of the county’s economic hardship is lost in delay.” Godfrey added that a presentation should be made to the governor in the next few weeks if possible. Strategies were discussed, including the size of the presenting group as well as its membership. It was suggested that Sen. Donovan, a Democrat, be the main presenter to the governor, who is also a Democrat. Other key points were brought out at the Delta session, including: • In response to a question, proponents of the Better City proposal acknowledged that the number of high-paying jobs it would create were “inconsequential.” • It was suggested that the community develop some measuring statistics to boost its case for economic hardship; that was a key element of the successful grant proposal for broadband infrastructure funds. For example,

it was noted that the standard unemployment numbers don’t capture the economic impact of people who lose jobs and then leave the area. The Oxbow mine has ceased operation. Expansion plans have been set back at another mine, and layoffs due to equipment issues and current market conditions have occurred at another mine.

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A4 Wednesday, December 30, 2015

ACCENT

Delta County Independent

Senior meals for January

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Senior CommUnity meals are served at four dining sites in Delta County — Cedaredge Community Center (MondayThursday), Delta Community Center (MondayFriday), Hotchkiss Senior Center (Monday-Thursday) and Paonia Senior Citizen Center (Monday, Wednesday and Friday). Meals on Wheels are also delivered from each location. More information is available by calling the Cedaredge meal site, 856-3636; the Delta meal site, 874-7662; Hotchkiss Senior Center, 872-3494; and Paonia Senior Citizen Center, 527-3435. The menu through Jan. 29 follows: Friday, Jan. 1 — New Year’s Day. No meal service. Monday, Jan. 4 — Spaghetti with meat sauce, buttered broccoli, mixed greens salad, garlic bread and gingerbread with lemon sauce. Tuesday, Jan. 5 — Ital-

Church hosts estate sale St. Luke’s Church will hold an estate sale in the heated garage and home at 1920 Rose Court, Delta, on Saturday, Jan. 9, 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. Items for sale include tables, chairs, dressers, desk, small appliances, lamps, knick-knacks, clothing and much more. This home is being refurbished as the new church rectory. Proceeds from the sale will support St. Luke’s expenses.

ian chicken breast and thighs, potatoes O’Brien, stewed tomatoes, spinach and cheese salad, rye roll and apple crisp. Wednesday, Jan. 6 — Roast beef, mashed potatoes with gravy, chuckwagon vegetable blend, pickled beet and onion salad, wheat roll and cake with mandarin orange garnish. Thursday, Jan. 7 — Potato-crusted cod, winter blend vegetables, tossed salad with tomato, wheat roll and sunset yogurt dessert. Friday, Jan. 8 — Cheeseburger on whole wheat bun, lettuce, tomato, onion, baked sweet potato fries, green beans with red peppers, crunchy garden slaw and deluxe banana pudding. Monday, Jan. 11 — Savory herb chicken thighs, brown rice, peas and carrots, special tossed salad, Italian bread and warm cinnamon apple slices. Tuesday, Jan. 12 — Pepper steak on brown rice, oriental vegetables, egg drop soup, French bread and mandarin oranges and bananas. Wednesday, Jan. 13 — Chicken pot pie, beet and onion salad, onion roll and sliced peaches. Thursday, Jan. 14 — Roast turkey, stuffing, apple gravy, orange glazed carrots, whole wheat roll, orange wedge and pineapple right-side-up cake. Friday, Jan. 15 — Chicken enchilada casserole, Spanish rice, seasoned corn, mandarin spinach salad and ice cream with chocolate sauce. Monday, Jan. 18 —

Call for artists for benefit art show Recognizing that we’re all connected in some way within our community, Gallery De La Luz in Delta has issued a call for artists for its upcoming benefit, “The Ties that

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Final Days for Savings ��

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Bind.” Artists are asked to create a piece featuring or showcasing neckties. Hit the thrift stores, visit your uncle who retired from corporate life, and dig out those long-forgotten Father’s Day gifts to pay homage to the forgotten piece of clothing … the necktie! The show is open to pieces in any medium. In addition to the traditional showpieces of paintings, sculpture and photography, this show will be a great outlet for the amazing textile/fiber artists who call Delta County home. The show is open to artists of any age and ability who live in Delta County. Artists are asked to register with their intent to showcase by Jan. 8 by calling the gallery at 209-5393 or emailing gallery owner Ann Barker at AnnMBarker@hotmail. com. Submissions are due by 5 p.m., Jan. 29, at Gallery De La Luz, 128 Palmer Street, Delta. Size limitations on artwork apply; please call or email for questions and clarification. The show opening will be Feb. 5 from 5-8 p.m. A portion of show sales will be donated to the Abraham Connection homeless shelter.

Ham loaf, baked potato with sour cream, seasoned peas, kidney bean salad, orange wedge and lemon pie cookie bar. Tuesday, Jan. 19 — Ground beef stroganoff, mashed potatoes with gravy, sweet yellow corn, tossed salad, rye roll and fruit cocktail. Wednesday, Jan. 20 — Tuna noodle casserole, fiesta blend vegetables, carrot fruit salad and bread pudding. Thursday, Jan. 21 — Chili con carne with onions and cheddar cheese, pea and cheese salad, cornbread with honey and creamy fruit mix dessert. Friday, Jan. 22 — Sloppy Joe on whole wheat bun, seasoned broccoli, potato salad and apple cobbler. Monday, Jan. 25 —

Paprika chicken, creamy brown rice with mushrooms, cheesy vegetable soup, orange glazed carrots and peach crisp. Tuesday, Jan. 26 — Beef stew with potatoes, carrots, celery and onions, cottage cheese and pineapple, rye roll and honey fruit dessert. Wednesday, Jan. 27 — Hot ham and Swiss sandwich, oven-browned potatoes, tomato soup, Italian vegetable pasta salad and fruit cocktail. Thursday, Jan. 28 — Liver and onions or beef patty, mashed potatoes with gravy, four-way vegetable blend, tossed salad, oatmeal roll and fresh orange. Friday, Jan. 29 — meat loaf with tomato glaze, scalloped potatoes, Scandinavian vegetables, coleslaw and sliced pears.

Cheri Kent, Kayla Sanders and Ann Renfrow

Alice Penick nursing scholarship awarded PEO Chapter BK is pleased to award Kayla Sanders with this year’s Alice Penick Memorial Nursing Scholarship. The $500 was given to Sanders at DeltaMontrose Technical College. Kayla plans to complete her LPN training in May 2016, pass the state licensure boards, continue on to the RN program through Colorado Mesa University where she hopes to graduate with an associate degree, and then work toward a B.S. in nursing. Currently, besides her classes in the LPN program at DMTC, Sanders works at Montrose Memorial Hospital on the med-surg floor as a CNA and unit coordinator, as well as a telemetry technician in the ICU. The scholarship was first awarded in Decem-

ber 2013 to honor the memory of Alice Penick. She was a member of PEO Chapter BK and several other community organizations. She also was instrumental in starting the hospice program in Grand Junction in the 1970s and was a former member of the advisory board for Hospice & Palliative Care of Western Colorado.

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Wishing Everyone A Happy New Year ��

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LOCAL NEWS

Delta County Independent

Wednesday, December 30, 2015

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Law enforcement graduates

Photo by Pat Sunderland

Dan Sanders, chief of the Cedaredge Police Department (pictured) and Sgt. Chad Beach of the Delta County Sheriff’s Ofﬁce shared their thoughts with the graduates of the Criminal Justice Academy. Delta-Montrose Technical College hosted the graduation ceremony Dec. 17 at the Delta Center for the Performing Arts. Pictured are Scott Sandefur, class president; Peter Vandenhoek, class vice president; Samantha Martinez, class treasurer; and class members Matthew Fransen, William Hammon, Mitchell Peretti and Toby Reeves.

Quit tips for the new year Are you one of the more than 70 percent of smokers who want to quit? Here are some tips that might help: 1. Write down why you want to quit. Do you want to: • Be around for your loved ones? • Have better health? • Set a good example

Learn about history of Delta House Senior Connection meets Thursday, Jan. 7, at the Fellowship Hall at Delta United Methodist Church, 477 Meeker Street. This month Eddie Sanford will present a program about the history of the Delta House. Come and enjoy the presentation along with conversation and companionship with other seniors! Refreshments will be offered. All senior men and women are welcome.

for your children? • Protect your family from breathing other people’s smoke? Really wanting to quit smoking is very important to how much success you will have in quitting. 2. Know that it will take commitment and effort to quit smoking. Nearly all smokers have some feelings of nicotine withdrawal when they try to quit. Nicotine is addictive. Knowing this will help you deal with withdrawal symptoms that can occur, such as bad moods and really wanting to smoke. There are many ways smokers quit, including using nicotine replacement products (gum and patches) or FDAapproved, non-nicotine cessation medications. Some people do not experience any withdrawal symptoms. For most people, symptoms only last a few days to a couple of weeks. Take quitting one day at a time, even one minute at a time — what-

ever you need to succeed. 3. Get help if you want it. Smokers can receive free resources and assistance to help them quit: • Call the QuitLine 1800-QUIT-NOW (1-800784-8669). • Visit Colorado’s official online resources: www.tobaccofreeco.org. • Visit the CDC’s online resources at www. cdc.gov/tobacco/campaign/ tips. • The smokefree.gov sites have great information and free resources, like mobile text messaging services and quit apps (see links to sites for women, teens, veterans and Spanish speakers at the bottom of the smokefree.gov home page). • Stop by the Delta County Health Department and pick up quit resources, 255 W. 6th Street or call 970-8742165. • Your health care providers are also a good source for help and support. Concerned about

In the new year, Delta County Libraries resolve to ... BY LEAH MORRIS Delta County Libraries

As 2016 rolls in, plenty of New Year’s resolutions are tossed around. Some are upheld and some are forgotten. However, Delta County Libraries is providing Delta County patrons with lasting resolutions that will carry the community through the new year and beyond. “We are working hard to uphold our mission and not only meet, but anticipate, the needs of Delta County Library users in 2016,” explains interim district director Lea Hart. “Some of the work is behind the scenes, and some will be obvious to library patrons.” The mission to which Hart refers is one adopted by Delta County Libraries in June 2009, which states that the libraries are dedicated to “Informing and empowering the community. Providing resources for life, lei-

sure, and learning.” The mission is general, but it emphasizes a goal to provide a wide variety of programming, resources and information to the diverse population served by the library district. Hart goes on to say, “Upholding this mission in a county which covers over 1,000 square miles requires strong communication, consistency and careful budgeting, and would not be possible without the amazing team of people who staff our libraries, run our board and volunteer in our towns. The library district resolves to keep that team working together productively and positively in 2016.” Board president Laura Earley agrees with Hart, saying, “As we move into the new year, the board will be dedicated to supporting our staff, providing access to training and looking for ways

Photo submitted

Nurse in training

Patti Kalahar, Delta County Memorial Hospital Foundation liaison, congratulates Haley Lynn Millard on receiving a $500 DCMH Foundation scholarship for the LPN program at DeltaMontrose Technical College.

to improve the services which will help fuel Delta County’s passion for reading, personal growth and learning. The Delta County Library board of trustees is proud of our employees and will offer our help and support to them as they work to serve our communities.” Earley continues, “Libraries are seeing changes in how people obtain and use information and in the tools and resources needed to operate in today’s society. Libraries must adapt to ensure our patrons have the ability to access the world of ideas.” Tools, access and resources for patrons come in many forms, and staff is already finding creative ways to make plans. For example, the theme for the summer reading program in 2016 revolves around health and wellness, leading Cedaredge children’s librarian Cara Morton to resolve, “We want to be the ‘fittest’ library district on the Western Slope!” Morton also talks about new staff members who are bringing their energy to the district. She says, “We’re ringing in the New Year here in Cedaredge with some new faces and fresh ideas.” While reaching top fitness levels is a rather lofty goal, Morton’s intention of utilizing fresh ideas resonates around the district. Library users in 2016 can look forward to innovative programming, up-to-date technology, current and popular materials on the shelves, plenty of community involvement and an enthusiastic group of staff and supporters. Now the libraries just need a gym membership to follow through on that fitness resolution.

weight gain? It’s a common concern, but not everyone gains weight when they stop smoking. Learn ways to help you control your weight as you quit smoking: http:// www.niddk.nih.gov/ 4. Don’t smoke any cigarettes. Each cigarette you smoke damages your lungs, your blood vessels and cells throughout your body. Even occasional smoking is harmful. 5. Remember this good news! More than half of all adult smokers have quit, and you can, too. Millions of people have learned to face life without a cigarette. Quitting smoking is the single most important step you can take to protect your health and the health of your family.

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A6 Wednesday, December 30, 2015

SCHOOL

Delta County Independent

GMUG receives field trip grant from National Park Foundation

Photo submitted

Virtuous Kids

Lincoln Elementary and the Kiwanis Club of Delta recently recognized the Virtuous Kids pictured above: (ﬁrst row, left to right) Lars Zukauskas (responsibility), Christopher Kidd (responsibility), Sarai Reyes-Torres (caring), Lisette Cansigo (responsibility), Saw Sky (kindness), Izaya Manzanares (diligence), Carlos Lobato (respect); (middle row) Petra Albert (compassion/ diligence), Laura Fernandez (responsibility), Brody Morﬁtt (responsibility), Roselyn Gonzalez (respect), Gavin McCurdy (diligence/compassion); (top row) Galatea Markert (compassion), Jesus Trevino (diligence/compassion) and Zanaida Rodriguez (diligence).

Kelly Johnson attains certified journalism educator status Kelly Johnson, a teacher at Delta High School, has been awarded certified journalism educator status from the Journal-

ism Education Association. Journalism certification requirements for educators include earn-

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ing college credit in news reporting and writing, commuications, law and publications advising, or passing an examination that demonstrates the educator’s proficiency in those areas. By becoming certified, Johnson has achieved national recognition and joins a select group of 625 certified journalism educators who regard journalism as an academic subject. DHS principal Derek Carlson recognizes the importance of having a qualified instructor involved in journalism/ publications. “Mrs. Johnson has dedicated an enormous amount of personal time to improving our program and providing a first-class opportunity for students,” he said. “Thank you, Kelly, for your continued hard work to make us great!” Johnson’s certificate was awarded at the JEA/ NSPA Fall High School Journalism Convention Nov. 16 in Orlando, Fla.

NOON YEAR’S EVE EXTRAVAGANZA FOR YOUTH

FREE

11:00 a.m. to 1:30 p.m.

FREE

YOUTH OF ALL AGES WELCOME!

Delta Elks Lodge #1235 563 Main Street • 874-3624

way to do that is to give people the opportunity to experience them firsthand,” said Will Shafroth, president of the National Park Foundation. “Through our grants that provide funding for transportation and in-park learning, we are able to connect youth and their families to these special places and inspire people across the country to find their park which, in turn, can foster a lifelong connection to all that public lands and waters have to offer.” This grant received by the GMUG National Forest pays transportation fees to bus approximately 188 fourth grade students to the Grand Mesa and Uncompahgre National Forests to experience a new winter sport, cross country skiing or snowshoeing, learn about snow science, connect with nature and have fun in the snow. Students from Palisade, Clifton, Collbran, Naturita, Norwood and Paradox elemen-

Terriﬁc Kids

tary schools will observe nature in winter through a scavenger hunt, discover how different animals adapt to winter, learn how to prepare for winter outings and prevent hypothermia, identify snow crystals and learn how they create avalanche conditions. With the completion of the Junior Snow Ranger (JSR) Activity booklet, the students will receive a JSR badge, pin and certificate. “The Forest Service and our partners, the Grand Mesa Nordic Council and the Interpretive Association of Western Colorado, are excited to receive this grant and provide an opportunity to bring more kids to our national forest and discover how cool winter can be,” said Anne Janik, Forest Service winter education program lead. To find out more about Junior Snow Rangers and the “More Kids in the Woods” program visit http://www. fs.usda.gov/goto/gmug/ MKIW.

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) Emarie Simpson, Aliyah Lopez, Candace Edmonds, Aiden Duty, Kenna Cook; (back row) Kayden Corral, Zane Knight, Joseph Lucero, Lily Higgs. Below are second and third graders Ty Reed, Trinity McCurdy, Diego Vicencio, Sadie Connally, J.P. Gallegos, Nevaeh Lujan, Joel Carrillo and Julian Gallegos.

Thursday, December 31 Music • Pizza • Games Bubble Wrap Stomp Add-Ons (magnets) from Fat Cat Pottery Sparkling Apple Cider Toast at Noon

The Grand Mesa, Uncompahgre and Gunnison National Forests is one of 186 federal sites selected to receive a field trip grant from the National Park Foundation, the official charity of America’s national parks. Fourth grade students will participate in the Forest Service Junior Snow Ranger program and experience the “thrill of the chill” on cross country skis and snow shoes exploring the forest in winter. This grant, part of the foundation’s Open OutDoors for Kids program, supports the White House youth initiative Every Kid in a Park. “It is inspiring to see the National Park Foundation and many other partners step up to support our goal of getting fourth graders and their families into parks, public lands and waters that belong to all Americans,” said U.S. Secretary of the Interior Sally Jewell. “These generous grants will ensure children across the country have an opportunity to experience the great outdoors in their community while developing a lifelong connection to our nation’s land, water and wildlife.” National Park Foundation grants have made it possible for more than 400,000 students (including this year’s grantees) to visit national parks and other public lands and waters. “We want to help people everywhere, from all backgrounds, discover how national parks, forests, wildlife refuges and other public lands and waters are relevant to their lives, and the best

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Delta County Independent

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ACTIVITIES

Master Gardener class begins in January The Colorado State University Extension, Tri River Area, is now accepting applications for the Master Gardener training class. The Tri River Area

includes Mesa, Delta, Montrose and Ouray counties. Trainings will be held in Grand Junction on Wednesdays, for 11 weeks, starting in mid-

January. Green industry professionals and public members who do not wish to volunteer can take this class outright and earn the Colorado gardening certificate. People who wish to become Master Gardeners take the class at a reduced rate in exchange for volunteering for the Tri River Area Ann Simmons at rae- Extension. anns@live.com or 970856-7809 to register. Go to http://Blackcanyoncam eraclub.org for further information.

The Master Gardener program was developed to help disperse researchbased information to the public in regards to noncommercial (mainly residential) landscaping and gardening. For more information on this program, contact our Mesa County office at 244-1834 and ask for either Susan Carter or Susan Honea.

Tai Chi “Moving For Better Balance” is an evidence-based fall prevention class which begins in January in Cedaredge, designed for people with balance issues. Instructors are Linda Bull and Brook Loucks, physical therapists for Delta County Memorial Hospital. The Tai Chi class requires a 12-week commitment and a fee of $1 per class to cover building rental. Classes begin Monday, Jan. 25, and run from 9:30 to 10:30 a.m. at the Stolte Shed, Pioneer Town, Cedaredge. Class size is limited, so sign up soon.

Contact Loucks and Bull at 872-1118 or 8568587 (please leave a message). This Tai Chi class is funded by Delta County Memorial Hospital and Colorado Department of Public Health & Environment.

Digital photography seminar planned Jan. 30 Want to make your pictures look special but don’t know which editing programs are best? Upcoming holidays will give you some special photos to cherish — make them the best they can be. Black Canyon Camera Club is hosting “A Digital Photography Seminar” given by Steve Traudt Jan. 30, 9 a.m.-4 p.m., at First Church of God on 11th and Howard in Delta. This seminar covers 15 mini-programs featuring tips and techniques leading to stronger photographs as well as controlling the technical aspect for higher quality. Lightroom 6 and NIK software demos will be covered more in-depth. This full-day seminar is just $75 by Jan 15. An instructional DVD valued at $35 is included. Contact Rae-

Tai Chi classes will help improve balance

Kick off the new year with Route 66 The band “Route 66” will provide music for the community evening dance Saturday, Jan. 16, at Bill Heddles Recreation Center. This dance will help kick off the new year and will run 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.

Library happenings The Delta County Libraries offer many educational and entertaining activities and events for you and your family to enjoy. Check out these programs: Cedaredge Storytime for Babies, Tots and Preschoolers at the Cedaredge Library. Thursdays starting at 10:30 a.m. Parents and tots are invited to participate in a reading time together. Maker Space: Little Picassos. This month the Cedaredge branch is a place for you to be a little Picasso! There will be canvas and paints and a completed painting for you to replicate with an easy guide. One canvas board per person and only one or two at a time to paint. You may call to reserve a time if you wish. This will be open all days for the month of January or until the boards run out! Teen Scene. “Pizza, Pizza!” Make your own mini pizzas. Teens and ‘tweens, grab a friend and come down to the library for a cheese, saucy good time! We will be creating our own little pizzas (and eating them of course). Friday, Jan. 8, at 4 p.m. Crafts Group. Crafters meet each Tuesday at 10 a.m. to share ideas and show and tell. Contact the library at 399-7674 for details. Tech Soup Saturday. Bring your devices and your questions. Saturdays, from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. Crawford Storytime for Babies, Tots and Preschoolers at the Crawford Library. Stories, games, songs, activities and crafts for kids 0-5 and their parents or caretakers. Thursdays starting at 10:30 a.m. Contact the library at 399-7783 for details.

Holiday Village Writing Contest. Visit the Crawford Library holiday village for writing inspiration or take a look at the photos on www.delta libraries.org/holiday-vil lage. Then enter your poetry or prose in our contest. Deadline is Dec. 31. Please visit the website or call the Crawford Library at 399-7783 for more information. 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 Storytimes. Storytimes for babies, tots and preschoolers are Wednesdays starting at 10:30 a.m. 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. Magic the Gathering Tournament. Come play Magic with your friends the first Saturday of every month. Saturday, Jan. 2, at 10 a.m. Rhythm Band Class. Learners will experience basic rhythm patterns including counter point and syncopation, musical language and terms, and how to play a variety of rhythm instruments. Students must sign up by Dec. 31. Grade level: 3-5. Tuesdays in January at 4 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

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Wednesday, December 30, 2015

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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 Baby, Storytimes. tot and preschooler storytimes are Wednesdays starting at 10:30 a.m. Join us for stories, activities and crafts downstairs. Contact the library at 399-7781 for details. 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 Storytimes. Baby, tot and preschooler storytimes are Tuesdays starting at 10:30 a.m. Contact Paonia Library at 3997881 for information. Movie for Break. Paonia Library will show a hit animated movie about the popular small, yellow, cylindrical creatures who have one or two eyes. More information is available on the libraries calendar at www.delta libraries.org. Wednesday, Dec. 30, at 2 p.m. Armchair Travel Series: Barb and Mike Heck. Travel to Northern India with Barb and Mike Heck to meet the Dalai Lama and enjoy the thrill of camel races. Tuesday, Jan. 5, at 6 p.m. Teen and Tween Winter Luau. Chase winter away with tropical fun and games! Friday, Jan. 8, at 4 p.m.

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Crosscountry ski classes begin Jan. 9 The Grand Mesa Nordic Council offers crosscountry ski classes, as well as skate ski classes. Both sessions are offered Jan. 9, 16 and 23, with ski classes from 11 to noon and the skate classes from 1 to 2 p.m. Visit gmnc.org to sign up for one or all three. The small group classes are perfect for beginners or anyone wanting to improve their skiing skills. Sign up for multiple classes — repeat students only get better! The cost is $40 per class for GMNC members or $50 per class for non-members. All classes are held at the Skyway trail system just off Highway 65 on Grand Mesa. GMNC is a membersupported, nonprofit organization of people who love to participate in Nordic sports on the Grand Mesa.

Babysitter training offered Bill Heddles Recreation Center is offering a babysitter training course taught by a certified American Red Cross instructor. Participants 10 to 15 years of age can learn to be a responsible babysitter. They will learn how to be a good leader and role model, how to make good decisions and solve problems, how to keep the children and themselves safe, how to handle emergencies such as injuries, illnesses and household accidents, how to write a resume and how to interview for jobs. This two-day course is offered Sunday and Monday, Jan. 3 and 4, from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. The class fee is $85 which includes CPR and first aid certification and a first aid kit. Register by calling Bill Heddles Recreation Center, 874-0923.

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A8 Wednesday, December 30, 2015

BUSINESS

Officials’ pay hike up to state

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BY HANK LOHMEYER

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Staff Writer

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The amount of pay increase that will go to newly elected county officials beginning next year is expected to be in the hands of the General Assembly which last year approved a pay hike of 30 percent. State lawmakers apparently realized that the 30 percent increase could be a tough sell to taxpayers back home who are the ones that actually pay the money for their elected officials’ salaries. So, in the style of other recent statewide laws that let local governments “opt out” of various provisions, there is an opt-out provision in the new pay schedule law. Local governments can choose instead to pay their elected officials a 20 percent, 10 percent, or zero percent increase. They can also do nothing and let state lawmakers take any heat for the 30 percent increase already

Grand Mesa Classic set for Jan. 2

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Delta County Independent

Winter has started and so has the Grand Mesa Nordic Council race season with excellent snow and enthusiastic racers. The next race in the series is the Grand Mesa Classic Saturday, Jan. 2, at the Skyway trail system. Race time is 10 a.m. For more information, call Tom Ela at 970-4349753 or visit gmnc.org.

Enjoy Singing?

Sing with us for 3 months and learn about 4 part Harmony

Starting January 21, the Chorus invites women of any age to sing with us for a 3 month period and perform with us in a benefit concert in April.

Every Thursday 6:30 pm at the Delta Methodist Church For more information, call Leslie at 256-9763 or Julie 835-8873 Learn more at: www.sweetadelineintl.org

scheduled to go into effect. Delta County Commissioners have endorsed a 20 percent increase for the next batch of county officials that are elected. Other counties, but not all, are opting for lower amounts also, according to county administration. If the General Assembly adopts a bill in 2016 allowing for the individual county increases, newly elected Delta County officials will see their pay increase as follows: commissioner, clerk, assessor, and treasurer from $58,500 to $70,200; sheriff from $76,000 to $91,200; county coroner from $33,100 to $39,720; and surveyor, from $3,300 to $3,960. The raise would include an automatic increase every two years to cover an accumulated cost-of-living entitlement for county officials statewide, many of whom serve in term-limited positions. The pay increase issue gained traction last May when the General Assembly voted to increase pay for county officials by the 30 percent amount. A legislative study on the issue

had concluded that the state-mandated pay level for local elected officials had not been increased since 2006. In Delta County, a 20 percent pay increase will vault elected officials ahead of the county’s waged and salaried workers in pay increases. County employees have gotten a total 13.1 percent pay hike since 2006, including a 1 percent across-the-board hike for 2016, according to the county administration. County workers are also getting an insurance premium increase paid for by the county that amounts to another 3 percent benefit. The county’s group health plan premium was increased a total of 16 percent for 2016 because of “over-utilization,” the administration reported to commissioners. If the 20 percent pay hike becomes applied to all elected county officials, in the year 2020 it will increase total county payroll by $94,534 annually, according to figures provided by the county. By the same calculation,

a 10 percent increase would increase the county payroll for elected officials in 2020 by $47,083. The county budget will be able to accommodate the 20 percent pay increase, said county administrator Robbie LeValley. In neighboring Mesa County, the administration released a statement on the commissioners there who opted for a zero increase in pay under the state law: “Given our current county fiscal predicament, coupled with the fact that our employees have, for the most part, not received raises in the past seven years, we cannot, in good conscience, take a $21,750 [30 percent] raise,” Mesa County Commissioner Rose Pugliese is quoted as saying. Also in the release, Commissioner John Justman says, “The commissioners can’t support a $21,750 raise for ourselves when the county employees haven’t had an across-the-board raise in the last seven years. Our revenue hasn’t recovered enough to cover these costs.”

Conference helps ease nursing home transitions Colorado Choice Transitions (CCT), is a program designed to give nursing facility residents the opportunity to explore a transition back into the community with the help and support of a transition team. This conference will ensure that attendees understand the CCT program and process. It will also give them the opportunity to see real life outcomes from transitions in the Region 10 service community, which includes Delta, Montrose, Ouray, San Miguel, Gunnison and Hinsdale counties. This conference is targeted toward members of the community who serve people with long-term care needs such as those who work in nursing facilities (administrators, social services directors, and DONs); home health and home care agencies (administrators and managers); single entry point case managers; hospital social workers and discharge planners, local landlords and housing

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authority managers. By attending this conference, you will help our community support resident choice. The conference will be held on Thursday, Jan. 14, 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. at Montrose Christian Church, which is located at 2351 Sunnyside Road in Montrose. A continental breakfast

begins at 8:30 a.m., and lunch will be provided. Please contact Region 10 to register at 249-2436 or visit www.region10.net/ catchthewave. For additional information on this seminar, contact Eva Veitch or Claudette Nicolas at Region 10, 249-2436 or eveitch@region10.net.

AmeriGas sponsors Telluride Fire Festival Delta’s AmeriGas is sponsoring Telluride’s newest festival. Now in its second year, The Telluride Fire Festival, a celebration of performance and sculptural fire arts, is to be held Jan. 14-17. The festival offers spectators a free and interactive experience of fire artistry with spontaneous fire performances, “art cars” and fire-emitting sculptures from some of the most revered fire artists throughout the four-day event in Mountain Village. Highlights this year include an installation from 15-year-old artist and costume designer, Max Ewy. A lover of all things that blend art and science, Max will create

her first Ruben’s Tube, or standing wave flame tube, for the festival. Another popular event this year is the sold-out welding workshop from 25-year veteran Richard “Red” Brown, whose custom designed cabinetry can be seen at Smuggler’s Brew Pub in Telluride. Additional festival activities include fire spinning workshops, a fire-themed pub crawl through Mountain Village, aerial silk performances, DJ sets and more. A schedule for the free and ticketed events can be found at www.tellu ridefirefestival.org. For more information on lodging and visiting Telluride, go to www.visit telluride.com.

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NORTH FORK December 30, 2015

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Ring in the new year at the Black Eyed Pea Jubilee BY TAMIE MECK Staff Writer

Whatever your plans are for ringing in the new year, you don’t want to miss the 16th annual Black Eyed Pea Jubilee on New Year’s Day at the Blue Sage Center for the Arts in Paonia. The event combines an alllocal lineup of big-city talents with a community potluck meal. The theme is based on a Cajun belief “that eating black-eyed peas on New Year’s Day brings good luck,” according to the Blue Sage website. Admission is free, and everyone is asked to bring a favorite dish to share. The event includes 20- to 25-minute sets with about a dozen local acts, starting at 3 p.m. with guitarist Mike Gwinn. The lineup also

includes Harry Harpoon at 3:30 p.m., Suckafish, 4 p.m.; the Madrigal Choir at 4:30 p.m., and Dave Sheppard at 5 p.m. At 5:30 p.m., Jon Hickam & Friends takes the stage, followed by The 3 Tinkers at 6 p.m. Justin Thompson plays at 6:30 p.m., Gustavo Brett is at 7 p.m., Brodie Kinder plays at 7:30 p.m., and The Scones perform at 8 p.m. At 8:30 p.m., enjoy an all-star jam. The event will also feature special guests including Robert Wright on Middle Eastern drums. On New Year’s Eve the Blue Sage will bring The Global Soul Experience to the stage for a new year’s eve of original funk, R&B, reggae, samba, salsa and more. Tickets for The Global Soul Experience are $20 in advance, $25 at the door, and available at blue sage.org or at the Blue Sage.

Christmas Eve sledding

Photo by Tamie Meck

A group celebrates Christmas Eve sledding and inner tubing in the glow of the lights of the Apple Valley tennis courts. The hill offers a variety of sledding opportunities, from a moderate-grade track to a steep section complete with jumps.

Paonia okays town manager raise BY TAMIE MECK Staff Writer

Photo by Tamie Meck

Drummer Justin Hess is among more than 20 local musicians who will perform New Year’s Day at the 16th annual Black Eyed Pea Jubilee at the Blue Sage Center for the Arts. The concert and community potluck is free and starts at 3 p.m.

Paonia town manager Jane Berry will receive a raise in 2016 after the town board of trustees approved a 5 percent pay increase by a 4-2 vote Tuesday morning. Dec. 29, during a special meeting. The raise, which is tied to a performance review, amounts to an increase of $3,730 for the year. In the absence of Mayor Neal Schwieterman, Mayor Pro Tem Charles Stewart said prior to the vote that Berry’s current salary of $74,600 is “below the mid-range for town managers for a community of our size,” or roughly $80,000 per year.

Earlier this year, Berry waived her contractual right to a raise of up to 5 percent, also tied to a performance evaluation. Berry also waived health insurance benefits, which saves the town about $8,000 annually, said Stewart. The town manager’s salary is subsidized through Jan. 31, 2016, by a threeyear grant from the Colorado Department of Local Affairs. The grant paid 75 percent of the salary for the position in 2014, most of which went to interim town manager Steven Rabe, and 50 percent in 2015. The grant will reimburse 25 percent, or about $21,000, of the town manager’s salary in

2016. Trustee Eric Goold, who cast a nay vote, expressed concern that the DOLA grant is running out and the town will eventually have to pay the entire salary. The town is in contact with DOLA regarding some contractual issues that will need to be addressed in 2015, including how much the town can draw off the grant, said Stewart. Per the town manager’s contract, the board of trustees conducted a performance evaluation on Berry this fall. While the specifics of the evaluation are considered a personnel matter and were discussed in executive session

at the Dec. 8 board meeting, Stewart said Berry was ranked in 30 categories, and the “overwhelming majority of the rankings were in the ‘good’ to ‘excellent’ range.” Stewart said it’s his understanding that the town has never held a performance evaluation for department heads, and that the plan is to continue the practice. “This is a major step forward,” said Stewart. “The town does need to be doing performance evaluations.” Berry is not the only town employee who will receive a raise in 2016. While the town awarded no raises in 2015, just over $19,000 was set aside in PAY RAISES TO B2

Fulfilling a promise to ring the bell BY TAMIE MECK Staff Writer

Over the holiday I was a bell ringer for The Salvation Army. Ringing the bell for one of the most charitable organizations in existence is one of those things I’d promised for years that I would do. During the holidays I rarely pass by a red kettle without putting something in. I also shop their thrift stores, although I often feel that I’m the one benefiting ($14 for a new “Made in U.S.A.” wool blanket: priceless). The Salvation Army pays bell ringers, and someone had signed up for Hotchkiss, but that person didn’t show up, according to Billie with the Delta Salvation Army. The Hotchkiss Lions Club stepped in to help where it could. “God bless you,” said Billie when I told her I wanted to volunteer. I’ve never needed emergency food or shelter, which for many isn’t an option, but rather a necessity. I was inspired to make this THE year after speaking to many dedicated people in the area

who make the holidays, and in some cases the entire year, better for those who need a helping hand. Organizations like the Hotchkiss K-8 School’s Helping Hands program and Benevolent and Protective Order of Elks and Paonia Christian Fellowship Church food pantries provide assistance to local communities, which we all know are struggling from a decline in goodpaying coal mining jobs. The Loving Spoonful in Paonia provides meals for a donation every other Wednesday, and over the holidays, the annual free Thanksgiving and Christmas day dinners were served in Hotchkiss for the 17th consecutive year. This is just a sample of the generosity and good deeds happening in the North Fork area. My first donation was from a woman who said her son benefited from a Salvation Army adult rehabilitation program in Grand Junction. She shoved a bill into the slot, telling me with teary eyes that she is forever grateful for how the program helped him.

She said she will continue to put money in the kettles every chance she gets. While a few people never looked my way, most passers-by said hello and Merry Christmas, whether or not they donated. Most thanked me for standing out in the cold for a good cause. Almost everyone expressed gratitude for the program. One gentleman dropped in a coin and joked that it was a Krugerrand, a gold coin which someone managed a week before Christmas to sneak into a kettle in Fort Collins for the 16th consecutive year — although I didn’t actually see his coin. Three donors said they wished they had more to give, and one said that if she was a millionaire she’d fill the kettle. The weather barely reached 30 degrees, my feet and hands got cold, and my back was hurting from shoveling snow like I’m 20 years old, all of which made time seem to pass very slowly. Despite being way out of my comfort zone, I committed to two hours of bell ringing and I wasn’t about to quit early. I thought of those who stand out in the cold

Photo by Tamie Meck

Paonia Christian Fellowship Church pastor Scott McIntire and volunteer Jaylene Park prepare food for distribution at the church’s Food Pantry just before Christmas. Four local churches maintain food stocks and open the pantry every other Wednesday. The food bank is one of many organizations in the North Fork area providing food assistance.

North Fork Times reporter Tamie Meck rang the bell for the Salvation Army Red Kettle program at Hotchkiss City Market before Christmas. All money collected in Delta County remains in the county. because they have nowhere else to go, and was grateful for the temporary discomfort. As the time dragged on and the discomfort grew, I tried to imagine who might benefit from my efforts — those who have lost their jobs, are injured, have lost their homes or their families, and those who never recovered from the 2008 recession. Everyone has a story, if we just listen. The Delta Salvation Army hadn’t yet tallied the results of this year’s kettle drive, but if it’s like the rest of the country, donations are down. The day I rang the bell, a story in the Grand Junction paper reported that donations are down in Mesa County. The organization is grappling with where to make cuts to its year-round programs. There’s reason for concern. Among the staggering statistics from the organization Feeding America, in 2014 46.7 million people in the U.S. lived in poverty, including 15.5 million children under the age of 18 and 4.6 million seniors 65 and older. The Salvation Army continues to see a rise in demand for services, and

in 2014 gave assistance to 30 million people nationwide. By being a bell ringer, I learned that money collected in Delta County remains in the county. According to a Delta Salvation Army manager, the money will be used to maintain year-round programs including the food pantry, assistance for payment of small bills, and providing of emergency shelter. The Red Kettle program runs through Christmas Eve, but the Salvation Army’s work goes on and donations are accepted throughout the year. They provide hunger relief and support youth camps, adult programs, prison ministries, Veterans Affairs services and a long list of other programs. Since its formation in 1865, The Salvation Army has helped keep women and children safe from sex trafficking. I think we all want to give when and where we can, which is why I chose to be a bell ringer. Standing out in the cold ringing a tiny bell is a humbling experience. At least the sun was shining and the wind wasn’t blowing.

B2 Wednesday, December 30, 2015

NORTH FORK TIMES

Delta County Independent

Pay raises FROM PAGE B1 the 2016 budget specifically for pay increases. About $1,800 of that was used to reduce employee medical insurance costs. “We want to keep … a solid, competent team in place” and reward employees for their accomplishments, said Berry. Trustee Suzanne Watson also voted against the pay increase. “I’m not in favor of pay increases at this time with the belttightening that we’re having to undertake and the austerity measures that

are in place,” said Watson. Goold also expressed concern over “appearances,” and said there is public perception that the town raised water and sewer rates to fund the raise. Berry replied that public works employees’ salary is split 50/50 between the water and sewer funds, and that only a small percentage of her income comes from those funds. “They are simply not related,” said Stewart, who reiterated that funds

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for all raises will come from the $19,000 set aside for raises. In addition, the town must fulfill all of its contractual obligations, said Stewart. In the past, raises and bonuses were awarded “indiscriminately” by the board, and with little or no correlation to performance or discussion by the board. “We cannot enter into contracts with employees, with contractors, and then not honor those contracts,” said Stewart. During the special meeting, trustees also unanimously voted to approve a 2016 agreement with the U.S. Geological Survey to continue seasonal operation and maintenance of a gauging station located on the North Fork of the Gunnison River below Paonia. The contract extends from July 1 through Oct. 31, 2016. The town will pay $3,710 of the $5,530 contract amount, and the USGS will provide matching federal funds of $1,820. Trustees also approved final disbursements for 2015, and unanimously voted to adopt Resolution 2015-15, amending town employee 457(B) pension plans. Police department employees currently receive a 5 percent contribution from the town plus an 8 percent contribution from the Fire and Police Pension Association of Colorado toward their plans, explained Stewart. The amendment excludes police officers from receiving the town contribution, but does not preclude them from making elective contributions to their retirement plans.

Photo submitted

Team effort

Paonia Elementary School teams up with First Colorado National Bank to donate canned goods and cash to the Paonia Food Bank. Student council representatives at PES helped coordinate their annual canned food drive with the proceeds going to the Paonia Food Bank. First Colorado National Bank matched $1 per canned good which also went to the Paonia Food Bank. Pictured in the back row are Dave Bartlett, volunteer with the Paonia Food Bank, Stan Park, CEO for First Colorado National Bank, Christy Harding with First Colorado National Bank, and Sam Cox, principal of PES and NFSIS. Student council representatives pictured are: (middle row) Carmen Rodriguez, Simon Cox, Damon York, Paige Roberts, Leona Myers, Ally Seriani, Ryder Hart; (bottom row) Brooke Harding, Matthew Horn, Peyton Gibson, Emily Reedy, Kaidence Godwin and Haylee Lozano.

Paonia surplus auction exceeds town’s expectations BY TAMIE MECK Staff Writer

When the Town of Paonia’s surplus auction was completed the morning of Dec. 18, nothing remained. Stacks of corrugated tin, snowmobiles,

numerous water tanks and a long list of items from office chairs to a vintage fire truck once used by the Paonia fire department were auctioned off to the roughly 75 people who showed up. Auctioneer John Cunningham, of Cunningham Auction Services in Crawford, started bidding at 10 a.m. sharp, and by 11 a.m., everything was

gone. One item that garnered a lot of attention was a vintage blue Snowcat, which sold for $1,200. “There was a lot of interest,” said town manager Jane Berry, and bidding went back and forth. “We sold everything,” said Berry, and the town took in $33,035 from the sale. “It exceeded my expectations.”

Photo by Tamie Meck

Potential bidders check out a vintage Snowcat ahead of the Town of Paonia surplus auction on Dec. 18. Auctioneer John Cunningham took less than an hour to auction off all of the items.

NORTH FORK TIMES

Delta County Independent

Wednesday, December 30, 2015

Strolling with the Scones BY TAMIE MECK Staff Writer

Followers of the North Fork music scene likely noticed that with all of the live music offered in 2015, one of the most prolific bands was relatively quiet. The Scones and members Rick Stockton, Helen Highwater and Harry Knipe were busy making “Light in the Forest,” a CD of 11 original songs. The band celebrated the release Dec. 12 at the Paradise Theatre. For Stockton and Highwater, the two constants in the history of The Scones, and earlier The Strolling Scones, this was their eighth CD since 2006, and the first full-length CD of all-original songs by The Scones. Stockton, the songwriter, describes the collection as “rich in harmony, with good beats.” He and Highwater are known for their harmonies, and for their original “rockin’ Americana” sounds. The band draws from a number of influences, including the iconic music of the 1960s. For Scones followers, that signature 60s vibe can be felt throughout the CD. “We can’t help ourselves,” said Highwater. Stockton pulls lyrics from both previous experiences and from a subconscious state, and gives them to Hightower for critiquing. Songs like “Fightin’ in the Trenches,” “Don’t Talk About Love” and lyrics like “friends don’t treat each other this way” can be very personal, or inspired by an incident, a movie or a book. Highwater says she usually can tell where they’re from. The Scones also remained true to their blues roots in “I Need Some Good News Bad” and “Lonesome Traveler,” and Highwater brings “Funny How Love Can Change Everything” to life with her sultry lead vocals. Stockton started writing songs as a teenager in Texas. He gets a riff or a melody in his head, then the craft kicks in and he fills in the gaps with rhymes or sounds to give each song its unique quality and bring out the best of the performers’ talents. Work began on Light in the Forest in January and took almost eight months to complete. The band collaborated with other musicians, including Ellen Hutto on flute and harmony vocals, Harry Harpoon on harmonica, Randall Utterback on fiddle, and David Alderdice on the doumbek, riq, bongos and camel bells. David Snyder is featured on piano and organ, Greg Cooperman plays harmonica and accordion, and Dave Menapace adds depth on the trumpet. Danielle Menapace’s English horn gives “I Can’t Find Her,” a song with a moral about dragging one’s feet when opportunity knocks, a gypsy feel, while “It’s About Time,” featuring Stockton on the claw hammer banjo draws from the traditional Appalachian folk tune, “The Coo Coo.” “Rick really gets to use his creativity in the studio,” said Highwater. Stockton’s editing techniques date back to 1960s and groups like The Beatles, allowing for “all of the psychedelic sounds of the 60s.” Songs are recorded in analog and transferred to digital, where the products are fine-tuned. With today’s electronic capabilities, that may sound outdated, “but it sounds better,” said Stockton. Work on the CD is done, but the promotional work is just beginning, although Stockton admits he’s anxious to start writing again. “Rick wants to move on to the next creative thing,” said Highwater. The band plans more local shows, too, starting on New Year’s Day with the Black Eyed Pea Jubilee at the Blue Sage. The event includes a potluck and several local acts taking the stage for 25-minute sets. Justin Hess will

Photo by Tamie Meck

Helen Highwater and Rick Stockton have been making music together for four decades. Their most recent musical act, The Scones, released a CD of 11 original songs early this month with Harry Knipe on drums. join Stockton and Highwater on drums, and other former band members are also in the lineup. An allstar set is scheduled for 8:30 p.m. After the CD was complete, The Scones performed in the Sapphire Room in Boise, Idaho. “We’re finding we’re getting such great response when we do these bigger concerts,” said Highwater. They’re also working on a promotional tour of Texas, and applying for slots in summer parks series concerts. They’re also looking into house concerts, where people open their homes to friends. Audiences can be all sizes, from a roomful to 60 or more, all there just for the music. They could book an entire tour of the country on house concerts, said Highwater. “It’s a really good way to go.” The CD is one of many accomplishments in the couple’s nearly four decades together. Stockton and Highwater met in the mid-1980s at a Denver restaurant. He was performing solo and she was a waitress. She asked to sit in and he asked her what she knew. They played the Denver/Boulder area for about a year, then toured the

southern U.S., from Florida to Arizona, with a lot of stops in Texas. The music mecca of Austin was tough, said Stockton, and bookings were a matter of supply vs. demand. They went on the road for two years, performing six nights a week. “It was crazy,” said Stockton, “but it was a good experience.” The couple, then known as Thicker Than Thieves, found Paonia in 1996 while driving from Glenwood Springs to Telluride. They dove into the local music scene, managing a recording studio and landing a weekend gig at Guido’s in Aspen that lasted for six years and led to other work in the Roaring Fork Valley. The Strolling Scones, a fictitious 1960s British Invasion band, was suggested by former Blue Sage director Thomas Smith as a gimmick for a show. “It was a really fun night,” said Stockton. The band went on to perform and record for more than a decade. Their first CD release party in 2001 grew into the annual Mountain Harvest Festival, one of the major events in Paonia. The non-profit is now a year-round philanthropic effort.

The musical “Ladies and Gentlemen, It’s The Strolling Scones!” based on the story of the fictitious band, premiered in 2013 at the Paradise Theatre. In recent years the couple has produced an average of a CD every two years, including “2 Vegans,” a 2009 selection of cover tunes recorded as a tribute to 1967 rock ‘n’ roll, and “Baker’s Dozen,” a “best-of” compilation. The Scones’ first CD, “Duct Tape Chronicles,” was released in 2014 on a very limited run. CDs are available locally at The Art Den in Paonia, and online through sconesmusic.com, amazon.com, downloaded through iTunes, and on cdbaby.com, an independent online music store which has helped the band sell its music all over the world. The couple express a great deal of gratitude for their success. Locals “are very supportive of original music,” said Stockton, and were very supportive of their musical. They’re hoping for a second production of the musical and are working with a theater in Littleton. As the final song, “Do the Best You Can,” suggests, Highwater and Stockton are doing their best to give audiences what they want: songs to remember and sing to. A lot of today’s music is interesting, but not memorable, “and not something you’ll get stuck in your head and start whistling,” said Stockton. “We’re trying to get that sound. And it’s a nice sound.”

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Happy New Year! ��

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Photo courtesy Claudia King

50-year member

Laurea Fortner-Welch (center) was honored at the Philanthropic Educational Organization (P.E.O.) Chapter GT, Delta’s annual Christmas party for becoming a 50 year member of P.E.O. President Rita Sussman (right) presented Laurea with a certiﬁcate from Colorado State Chapter. Treasurer Claudia King (left) read a tribute to Laurea’s service in P.E.O. The Dec. 5 Christmas party was held at the Eckert Presbyterian Church and featured beautiful Christmas music by the Thorns and Roses choral group accompanied by pianist Sharon Clark. Hostesses for the event were Cheryl Reid, Sharon Wear and Nancy Dillon.

Time to Celebrate ��

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B4 Wednesday, December 30, 2015

CHURCH

Photo submitted

Exceptional Eagles

On Dec. 4, the pictured Paonia Elementary School students were recognized for demonstrating S.O.A.R. behavior: (back row, left to right) Matthew Horn, Carmen Rodriguez, Sam Roberts, Paige Roberts, Dawson Morgan and Aiden Kinser for order, achievement and respect; (front row) Adrian Dennison and Joel Frazier for achievement and respect; James Roach for achievement; Jordyn Survis for respect; Avery Kinser for achievement and respect. Way to S.O.A.R. students!

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Delta County Independent

A helping hand

Hotchkiss K-8 student council coordinated a competitive canned food drive to beneﬁt Helping Hands during the holidays. First Colorado National Bank matched $1 for every canned good collected at the school and was able to donate $1,271 to Helping Hands. On hand to receive the check is Helping Hands coordinator Carrie Yantzer. Also pictured are the student council coordinator Kena Price, Hotchkiss K-8 student council members, and Christy Harding and Stan Park with First Colorado National Bank.

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OBITUARIES

Delta County Independent

Nancy Hensing

Nancy M. Hensing died Dec. 19, 2015, at her home in Austin. She was 75. Rosary was spoken Monday, Dec. 28 at Callahan-Edfast Mortuary Chapel in Grand Junction and a funeral Mass was held Tuesday, Dec. 29, at St. Joseph Catholic Church. Burial followed in the St. Anthony section of Orchard Mesa Cemetery. Mrs. Hensing was a homemaker and worked as a motel desk clerk. She is survived by one son, Daniel Hensing of Oakdale, Minn.; three daughters, Patricia Smith of Grand Junction, Cindy Martinez of Whitewater and Karen Spitler of Michigan; 11 grandchildren; and 16 greatgrandchildren. Memorial contributions may be sent to the American Cancer Society, 2754 Compass Drive #101, Grand Junction, CO 81506. Callahan-Edfast Mortuary handled the arrangements.

at Dam Neck, Hampton Roads, Va. He received a degree in the program for management development at Harvard Business School in 1968. While in the Navy, he served in Pearl Harbor, Puget Sound Naval Shipyard in Bremerton, Wash., and Portsmouth Naval Shipyard in Kittery, Maine. He was appointed commander of the Pearl Harbor Naval Shipyard in 1972. He retired from active duty in 1975 and became deputy director of the Department of Transportation for the State of Hawaii for four years, followed by 15 years as president/CEO of Dillingham Maritime. He became director of transportation for the city and county of Honolulu and served as commissioner of Honolulu’s City Transportation Commission. Mr. Swanson was an active supporter of Hawaii Boy Scout Troop 1 for many years, sang in numerous church choirs, volunteered with Meals on Wheels and was president of the Outrigger Canoe Club. He enjoyed playing tennis.

Chuck Swanson

Former Delta resident Charles “Chuck” O. Swanson died from Parkinson’s disease Sunday, Dec. 13, 2015. He was 88. He was born in Cañon City in 1927 to Oscar and Beatrice Swanson, former Delta residents. He attended Bullis Preparatory School and graduated from the United States Naval Academy in 1949. In 1950 he married Anne Wright in Richmond, Va. Mr. Swanson received a degree in naval architecture and marine engineering from the Massachusetts Institute of Technology in 1953. He advanced to Naval Submarine School in New London, Conn. He served as a lieutenant aboard the USS Croaker (SSK-244) at Portsmouth Naval Shipyard in Kittery, Maine, and the Bureau of Ships in Washington, D.C., before graduating from Polaris Command School

Ronnie Jackson

Ronnie Lee Jackson died Dec. 22, 2015, at his home in Tucson, Ariz. He was 73. He was born in San Pedro, Calif., March 28, 1942, to Levi and Lilly Jackson. He married Marg McCracken in 1961 in Olathe. They lived in California before moving back to Colorado in 1973. Mr. Jackson worked as a master electrician and contractor. While in Colorado he owned Jackson Electric. In 1985, the family moved to Tucson, Ariz., where he owned Commercial Electric Inc. He was baptized into the General Assembly and Church of the Firstborn on Feb. 11, 1956. He enjoyed his family, his church, singing, his ministry of traveling among the brethren and opening his home to visitors. He is survived by his wife of 54 years, Marg;

his sons, Doug Jackson and Brian (Stacey) Jackson, all of Tucson, Ariz.; his daughters, Jill Miller of Laguna Niguel, Calif., and Jennifer (Jerry) Sweet of Tucson, Ariz.; 13 grandchildren; three sisters, Mary Millarich, Sue Young and Vicki (J.E.) Sweet, all of Agra, Okla.; a brother, Bud (Sarah) Jackson of Pismo Beach, Calif.; and extended family. He was preceded in death by his brothers, Odell and Jerry Jackson; and a granddaughter, Katie Jackson. Interment is at Pea Green Cemetery in Olathe. Adair Funeral Homes Avalon Chapel in Tucson, Ariz., handled the arrangements.

rial Hospital Foundation, Delta Health and Wellness Clinic and Abraham Connection. She attended St. Luke’s Episcopal Church where she was on the vestry until her health prevented attendance. Mrs. Lemon is survived by her stepfather, Bruce Holmlund; her stepmother, Vivian Gibson; her children, Karissa (Jeff) DeTienne of Loveland, Kelsi (Nate) Wuebbels of East Hanover, N.J., and Isaac “Zac” (Amy) Lemon of Eaton; her brothers, Tom Gibson of Cottage Grove, Wis., Bill Gibson and Mike (Carlotta) Gibson, all of Delta; and five grandchildren, Evelyn, Elinor, Lucy, Calvin and Eliza. She was preceded in death by her parents, Jim Gibson and Pat Holmlund. A memorial service was held Monday, Dec. 28, at the Delta Middle School auditorium. Interment followed at Delta City Cemetery. Memorial contributions may be made to St. Luke’s Episcopal Church, 145 W. 5th St., Delta, CO 81416. Taylor Funeral Service and Crematory handled the arrangements. Kathy Lemon View the Internet obitKathleen “Kathy” uary and sign the online Lemon died Sunday, Dec. guest registry at taylor 20, 2015, at St. Mary’s funeralservice.com. Hospital in Grand Junction. She was 62. She was born in Denver Feb. 27, 1953, to Jim and Patricia “Pat” (Thorn) Gibson. She lived the majority of her life in Delta, with brief periods in New York City, N.Y., Greeley and Denver. She graduated from Delta High School in 1971 and from the University of Northern Colorado in 1975. She married Gary Lemon of Delta in 1977. Mrs. Lemon was an educator for over 30 years. Walter Gay She taught at Delta MidWalter Gay died Dec. dle School for many years 23, 2015, at Delta County before receiving her mas- Memorial Hospital. He ter’s degree in counsel- was 97. He was born in Leading from the University of Colorado. She received ville Feb. 24, 1918, to an education specialist Harry and Amy (Tuotte) degree before retiring Gay. He grew up in Leadas assistant principal at ville and graduated from Montrose High School. Leadville High School in She enjoyed traveling 1937. the world, gardening, He married Virginia playing golf, redecorating, Page March 1, 1941, in crocheting, quilting, mak- Glenwood Springs. ing fun and sentimental Mr. Gay worked as a things for her grandchil- mechanic for the Climax dren, and spending time mine and as a carpenter with friends. She was in Colorado Springs. He active in many social moved to Cedaredge after clubs and other organiza- his retirement in 1980. He enjoyed his famtions including Xi Delta Eta Sorority, PEO (BK), ily, gardening, hunting, the Methodist bell choir, fishing, camping, black Valley Symphony Cho- powder and reloading, rus, Delta County Memo- four wheelers and motorcycles. He was a member of the NRA, the carpenters and millwrights union and the North American Hunting Club. He attended First Baptist Church in Cedaredge. Mr. Gay is survived by his wife, Virginia; his son, David (Marian) 5th and Rood. If all else fails or you Gay; a daughter, Donna need last-minute tick- (Keith) McGuire; four ets, a ticket table will grandchildren; and nine be available in the lobby great-grandchildren. He was preceded in one hour before curtain. Prices at the door will be death by a brother, Harry $1 higher for any tickets Richard Gay; a daughter, with prices ending in a LeEllen Johnson; and a granddaughter, Lynn 9. Glessner. Memorial services are pending. Taylor Funeral Service and Crematory is handling the arrangements. View the Internet obituary and sign the online guest registry at taylor funeralservice.com.

Wednesday, December 30, 2015

four great-grandchildren. Memorial contributions may be sent to the charity of the donor’s choice. Callahan-Edfast Mortuary handled the arrangements.

Charlotte Smith

Paonia resident Charlotte Smith died Wednesday, Dec. 16, 2015, at St. Mary’s Hospital in Grand Junction. She was 68. A memorial service was held Tuesday, Dec. 29, at Taylor Funeral Service Chapel in Paonia. Charlotte Fay Emmons was born in Paonia July 9, 1947, to Russell and Shirley (Fry) Emmons. She spent her childhood and attended school in Paonia. She married Doug Smith on Aug. 22, 1986, in Florence, Ariz. Mrs. Smith enjoyed fishing, hunting, traveling, yard work and being with her husband and family. She is survived by her husband of 29 years, Doug Smith; two sons, Mark Simpson and Mike Simpson; a brother, Harvey Emmons; and two sisters, Linda Payte and Reita Leonard. Memorial contributions may be sent to Wounded Warriors Project, 1 S. Nevada Ave., Colorado Springs, CO 80903. Taylor Funeral Service and Crematory handled the arrangements. View the Internet obituary and sign the online guest registry at taylor funeralservice.com.

Steven Anderson

Lifetime Delta County resident Steven Thomas Anderson died Tuesday, Dec. 15, 2015, at his home in Hotchkiss. He was 48. A celebration of life will be held at 2 p.m.,

Saturday, Jan. 9, at Delta First Assembly of God with Rev. Jason Neely, Rowdy Shiflet and Jerry Hogan officiating. Services will conclude at the church. Mr. Anderson is survived by his mother, Pamela Anderson; two brothers, Bryan (Melody) Anderson of Cedaredge and Robert Anderson of Austin; one sister, Pam Anderson of Austin; and extended family. Memorial contributions may be sent to HopeWest, P.O. Box 24, Delta, CO 81416, or to the ALS Foundation, 1275 K St. NW, Suite 250, Washington, D.C. 20005. Taylor Funeral Service and Crematory is handling the arrangements. View the Internet obituary and sign the online guest registry at taylor funeralservice.com.

Wanda Lippman

Wanda Lippman of Arvada died Thursday, Dec. 24, 2015. She was 90. She was born in Delta to Harry and Flossie Helmick. A small service will be held at 10:30 a.m., Wednesday, Jan. 6, at Fort Logan National Cemetery, followed by a reception at 11:30 a.m. at the Arvada Elks Lodge, 5700 Yukon, Arvada. Mrs. Lippman is survived by her sons, Ron (Cindy) and Terry; three grandchildren; six greatgrandchildren; and one great-great-grandchild. She was preceded in death by her husband, Gunter; and a brother, Rex Helmick. Memorial contributions may be made to Laradon Hall at Laradon. org, or to the Alzheimer’s Association. Aspen Mortuaries is handling the arrangements.

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LOCAL NEWS

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High Desert Opera presents ‘The Music Man’ Book, Music and Lyrics by High Desert Opera presents “The Music Man,” fully staged and accompanied by a live orchestra. Local vocalists fulfill lead and supporting roles. Join James Werner as the Music Man and all the starstruck townspeople of River City for three performances of this musical

Women, learn to defend yourselves Bill Heddles Recreation Center is hosting a women’s self-defense class beginning Jan. 23. This is a six-week session to be held Thursday afternoons from 1 to 2:30 p.m. The class is designed to educate those 13 and up in situational awareness and protecting themselves through selfdefense techniques. The cost is $40. Sensei Rodney Grantham, a sixth-degree black belt - Okinawa Seidokan, is the instructor. To register, call the recreation center at 8740923.

extravaganza — Dec. 31 and Jan. 2 at 7:30 p.m., or Jan. 2 at 1:30 p.m. All three performances will be in Robinson Theatre at the Moss Performing Arts Center on the CMU campus. This Broadway musical will be fun for the whole family. “The Music Man” is based on a story by Meredith Willson and Franklin Lacey, with music and lyrics by Willson. The plot concerns con man Harold Hill, who poses as a boys’ band organizer and leader and sells band instruments and uniforms to the naive Iowa townsfolk, promising to train the members of the new band. But Harold is no musician and plans to skip town without giving any music lessons. Prim librarian and piano teacher Marian sees through him, but when Harold helps her younger brother overcome his lisp and social awkwardness, Marian begins to fall in love. Harold risks being caught to win her. (Wikipedia) Tickets can be purchased online at high desertopera.org, by phone at 970-523-9605, or at Roper Music in downtown Grand Junction at

Karate offered for kids ages 5-8

Boys and girls ages 5-8 will learn discipline and respect while building self-esteem when they take karate classes at Bill Heddles Recreation Center. Little Dragons karate classes are taught by Sensei Rodney Grantham, sixth degree black belt - Okinawa Seidokan. The cost of the five-week session is $20. Classes will be held Saturday mornings, Jan. 23 to Feb. 20, from 11:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. Please register by noon Jan. 22. For more information, contact Bill Heddles Recreation Center at 8740923.

Frank Franklin

Cedaredge resident Frank David Franklin died Tuesday, Dec. 22, 2015, at his home. He was 69. He worked as a heavy equipment mechanic. Mr. Franklin is survived by his spouse, Garry Franklin of Cedaredge; two sons, Earl Chambers of Highlands Ranch and Stan Chambers of Denver; a brother, Lue Franklin of Grand Junction; four sisters, Sharon Lucero of Fruita, Virgie Goad of Rifle, Lewella Cross and Lurene Torney, both of Grand Junction; four grandchildren; and

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B6 Wednesday, December 30, 2015

SPORTS

SPORTS December 30, 2015

Delta County Independent

www.deltacountyindependent.com

Delta County hoop teams take a breath before 2016 BY WAYNE CRICK DCI Sports Editor

Prep sports is taking a breather before resuming rigorous schedules beginning in early January. Delta County athletes are taking time off but are scheduled to begin practicing for opening contests in the new year. Locally, Cedaredge and Paonia High Schools’ girls’ basketball teams are once again setting the example for the rest of the 2A District 5 WSL, and making noise at the state level. Currently, the Bruins are third in Class 2A standings and Paonia is seventh. West Grand’s Mustangs are sixth, giving 2A District 5 three teams in the top 10 standings in state. Paonia’s boys are listed 10th in the state while Meeker is sitting in second place. West Grand is in the 22nd spot in the boys’ rankings. Delta, competing in Class 4A WSL, is showing signs of having a good season in both boys’ and girls’ divisions. Delta’s boys are 5-3 after completing the 2015 portion of their schedule. Delta’s girls are .500 with a 4-4 record. Class 2A Hoops Cedaredge’s girls sit atop the 2A District 5 standings of the Western Slope League. The Bruins are 6-0 and Paonia is third at 6-1. West Grand has a 7-0 record and occupies second place in league standings. Much of the success of Cedaredge, and Paonia, is attributed to potent offenses fueled by turnovers produced in fullcourt pressure defenses.

The Bruins are scoring at a 55 points-per-game clip while the Eagles score nearly 58 points a game on average. Rebounding is adequate for both teams, as shooting layups off steals often does not require great emphasis on rebounding. The Bruins snag an average of 36 boards per game while Paonia pulls down an average of 27.9 missed shots a game. Both teams have high transition marks accounting for high percentages of their points. Paonia swipes an average of 21 balls each game and the Bruins nearly 17 to bolster already good offenses. Junior Sophia Anderson leads the Eagles’ offense with a scoring average just over 15 points. Ashley Van Vleet adds 10 points per game and Emily Pieper contributes six an outing. The Bruins have three players who are doubledigit scorers, led by senior Nellie Freeman’s 14 counters a game. Junior Hannah Gilmore is scoring at a 10.6 clip and senior Kendall McHugh is good for 10 a game. Junior Hailey Henrie has contributed greatly to the offense this season and is currently scoring at an 8.7 per game pace. On the boys’ side, Paonia junior Colby Simpson paces the Eagles’ offense with 13 points a game, with double-digit help from junior Dagan Rienks who is scoring at a 10-point average. Seniors Taylor Walters and Francisco Lopez have scoring averages of 8.7 and 9.2,

respectively. Paonia pulls down 31 rebounds a game with Rienks grabbing nearly seven carroms and Walters another six to lead the way. Class 4A Hoops Delta’s Panthers are not listed in the top 20 of Class 4A state rankings, nor are they in the top three of 4A WSL standings. With relatively young teams, both the boys’ and girls’ teams are working to overcome mistakes caused by inexperience. Craig Cerise’s new offense, and defense, have been different enough to create little obstacles that must be avoided to make success more accessible. There are no doubledigit scorers for Delta’s girls. Emily Nortnik has had the team’s biggest offensive game with a 23-point effort against Basalt on Dec. 12. Nortnik is scoring at an 8.1 clip and pulls down seven rebounds a game. Junior Lily Lockhart knocked down 20 points in Delta’s win over Battle Mountain just before break. She has four double-digit games and leads the Panthers in scoring with a 9.4 average. Freshman Jenna Sutliff comes off the bench to spark the Panthers both offensively and defensively. Sutliff scores six points a game, has 12 assists and 16 steals in eight games so far this season. Sutliff is a scrapper and can be counted on for at least three rebounds a game for the Panthers. Delta hauls in 34

rebounds a game and is led by Nortnik’s 7-plus boards and Lockhart’s 6.9. Megan Sandoval is another integral part of the boardwork as she grabs six rebounds a game. Senior Mykayla Music contributes another five rebounds a game. Delta’s boys are inconsistent in execution but play extremely hard. Coach Von Mitchell sees his squad getting better as the season progresses but notes, “We’re playing young … too many mistakes.” At 6-5, freshman Kyle Mock has shown spectacular shooting prowess at times and has plenty of moves to go with his shooting. As experience comes, Mock will be a big factor in how the Panthers finish the season. Junior Beau Byers is electric at the point guard position and has an uncanny eye for where his teammates are on the court. Another high impact player for Delta is sophomore Jaspar Carmichael. Carmichael is a capable guard who can play the point or wing positions and has tons of basketball savvy. Along with Byers, Carmichael has the ability to fill the net from beyond the arc, making them a dangerous force for opponents. Newcomer Dylan Hollenbeck is a solid post presence who will provide needed benefits as the season continues. The return of Jonny Ponce has given the Panthers added strength on both offense and defense. Teams return to the hardwood Jan. 8-9.

Photo by Wayne Crick

Senior Nellie Freeman doesn’t need much room to take a shot. Freeman sets up for a shot against Olathe in a game played in December.

Photo by Wayne Crick

Cedaredge’s Kendall McHugh picks the pocket of an Olathe player during this year’s First Colorado National Bank Tournament. The Bruins have been stingy on defense and overpowering on offense and will begin 2016 with a 6-0 record.

Photo by Wayne Crick

The Cedaredge Bruins have been the class of the ﬁeld in 2A District 5 so far this season. Ryan Hilbig’s Bruins are currently 6-0 on the season and looking to add more wins to their resume when the 2016 portion of Cedaredge’s schedule is put into play.

BASKETBALL ——— STANDINGS ——— Western Slope Conference 2A District 5 BOYS Cedaredge Boys TEAM Meeker Vail Mountain Paonia West Grand Soroco Vail Christian Rangely Cedaredge Hotchkiss Hayden

56 43 43 62

LEAGUE OVERALL 0-0 4-0 0-0 1-0 0-0 6-1 0-0 5-2 0-0 5-2 0-0 3-2 0-0 2-2 0-0 3-3 0-0 1-6 0-0 0-3

——— RESULTS ——— Cedaredge Boys Head Coach: Kevin Dunbar Olathe 12/3/15 Coal Ridge 12/4/15 Delta 12/5/15 Ridgway 12/9/15 (2OT)

35 46 48 61

66 Roaring Fork 12/12/15 49 46 Basalt 12/19/15 64 Record: 3-3 Overall; 0-0 League Up Next: Friday, Jan. 8 vs Meeker, 7 pm; Saturday, Jan. 9 @ Rangely, 1 pm

51 vs Sargent @ Gunnison 12/15/15 38 49 @ Grand Valley 12/19/15 60 Record: 6-1 Overall; 0-0 League Up Next: Saturday, Jan. 9 vs Plateau Valley, 4 pm; Tuesday, Jan. 12 vs Hotchkiss, 7 pm

Hotchkiss Boys Head Coach: Eric Hollembeak

——— STANDINGS ——— Western Slope Conference 2A District 5 GIRLS

51 Ridgway 12/1/15 54 57 Norwood 12/3/15 65 42 Montrose JV 12/4/15 52 57 Olathe 12/5/15 50 38 Aspen 12/10/15 50 38 Vail Christian 12/12/15 45 39 Gunnison 12/17/15 54 Record: 1-6 Overall; 0-0 League Up Next: Saturday, Jan. 9 vs Caprock Academy, 5:30 pm; Tuesday, Jan. 12 @ Paonia, 7 pm Paonia Boys Head Coach: Chase Roeber 51 60 65 61 56

Montrose JV 12/3/15 Norwood 12/4/15 Coal Ridge 12/5/15 @ Olathe 12/8/15 @ Telluride 12/11/15

12 40 50 36 39

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Wishing all a Merry Christmas & Happy New Year!

TEAM Cedaredge West Grand Paonia Soroco Vail Christian Meeker Hayden Rangely Hotchkiss

Cedaredge Girls LEAGUE OVERALL 0-0 6-0 0-0 7-0 0-0 6-1 0-0 5-1 0-0 4-2 0-0 2-2 0-0 1-2 0-0 1-3 0-0 0-6

——— RESULTS ——— Cedaredge Girls Head Coach: Ryan Hilbig 41 Olathe 12/3/15 33 54 Coal Ridge 12/4/15 22 50 Delta 12/5/15 20 66 Ridgway 12/9/15 20 54 Roaring Fork 12/12/ 15 29 65 Basalt 12/19/15 22 Record: 6-0 Overall; 0-0 League Up Next: Friday, Jan. 8 vs Meeker, 6 pm; Saturday, Jan. 9 @ Rangely, 1 pm Hotchkiss Girls Head Coach: Ginger McPherson 35 FCNB Norwood 12/3/15 71 26 FCNB Montrose JV 12/4/15 42 28 FCNB Olathe 12/5/15 61 28 @ Aspen 12/10/15 35 26 vs Vail Christian 12/12/15 40 27 @ Gunnison 12/17/15 36 Record: 0-6 Overall; 0-0 League Up Next: Saturday, Jan. 9 vs Caprock Academy, 4 pm; Tuesday, Jan. 12 @ Paonia, 5:30 pm Paonia Girls Head Coach: Scott Rienks 56 FCNB Montrose JV 12/3/15 56 FCNB Norwood 12/4/15 51 FCNB Coal Ridge 12/5/15 55 @ Olathe 12/8/15 (2OT) 70 @ Telluride 12/11/15 57 vs Sargent @ Gunnison 12/15/15 60 @ Grand Valley 12/19/15 Record: 6-1 Overall; 0-0 League

22 28 20 58 4 24 34

Up Next: Saturday, Jan. 9 @ Plateau Valley, 2:30 pm; Tuesday, Jan. 12 vs Hotchkiss, 5:30 pm ——— STANDINGS ——— Western Slope Conference (4A) Delta Boys TEAM LEAGUE OVERALL 7-0 Rifle 3-0 Glenwood Springs 1-0 3-4 Battle Mountain 1-1 4-4 Eagle Valley 1-1 3-5 Palisade 1-1 1-7 Delta 1-2 5-3 Summit 0-1 0-6 Steamboat Springs 0-2 3-5 ——— RESULTS ——— Delta Boys Head Coach: Von Mitchell 55 Coal Ridge 12/3/15 51 54 Olathe 12/4/15 36 48 Cedaredge 12/5/15 43 48 Palisade 12/11/15 61 26 Basalt 12/12/15 53 40 Roaring Fork 12/15/15 34 44 Glenwood Springs 12/18/15 70 52 Battle Mountain 12/19/15 50 Record: 5-3 Overall; 1-2 League Up Next: Friday, Jan. 8 @ Rifle, 7:30 pm; Saturday, Jan. 9 vs Steamboat Springs, 2:30 pm

Photo by Wayne Crick

Delta junior Lily Lockhart looks for a teammate to pass the ball to during a game against Palisade. Lockhart leads the Panthers in scoring in the early going and is good for seven rebounds a game.

Delta Girls TEAM LEAGUE OVERALL Palisade 2-0 5-2 Eagle Valley 2-0 5-3 Glenwood Springs 1-0 2-5 Rifle 1-1 5-1 Delta 1-2 4-4 Steamboat Springs 0-2 2-5 Battle Mountain 0-2 2-5 Summit 0-0 3-2 ——— RESULTS ——— Delta Girls Head Coach: Craig Cerise 26 Coal Ridge 12/3/15 37 44 Olathe 12/4/15 39 20 Cedaredge 12/5/15 50 12 Palisade 12/11/15 51 61 Basalt 12/12/15 47 50 Roaring Fork 12/15/15 38 44 Glenwood Springs 12/18/15 52 58 Battle Mountain 12/19/15 38 Record: 4-4 Overall; 1-2 League Up Next: Friday, Jan. 8 @ Rifle, 6 pm; Saturday, Jan. 9 vs Steamboat Springs, 1 pm

Photo by Wayne Crick

Delta sophomore Jaspar Carmichael shoots over Palisade’s defense in a game played earlier in December.

SURFACE CREEK December 30, 2015

NEWS

Section

www.deltacountyindependent.com

Holidays are complete with Christmas feast BY HANK LOHMEYER Staff Writer

After all of the decorations have been hung; after all the carols and hymns have been

sung; after all the caring and sharing has been done; and, after heartfelt thanks have been given to The One — then it is time for the feast.

Photo by Hank Lohmeyer

There is no better way to top off a serving of Christmas turkey and dressing than with mashed potatoes and gravy, with sides of sweet potato and ﬂavored green beans to follow.

The community’s Christmas feast took place in local tradition style at the Stolte Shed on a white Christmas Day that brought a foot and more of fresh snowfall to Cedaredge (elevation 6,100). Grand Mesa Lodge reported 18 inches of new snow from the white Christmas storm, an amount that brought the week’s total to 55 inches of new white stuff on the ground. Inside the cozy and friendly confines of the Stolte Shed, well over 200 people came out to be a part of the community at the free dinner event. A true homemade feast built around ham and turkey warmed hearts and fueled lively conversation that renewed and strengthened established friendships, and which forged new ones to be enjoyed at Christmas celebrations in the future. The Community Christmas Dinner event is a project of the Cedaredge Rotary Club in association with Les and DJ Mergelman who for years have prepared delicious food for the event.

After a storm

Photo by Hank Lohmeyer

Blue spruce boughs with a burden of new-fallen snow catch a reddish glow from ﬁrst light following an overnight snowfall with Grand Mesa seen in the distance.

Orchard City plots its own way to broadband BY HANK LOHMEYER Staff Writer

The Town of Orchard City has taken a different approach from other county municipalities on the broadband issue. That doesn’t mean the town won’t be participating in the Region 10 broadband network project. It means, in the town board’s view, that they are taking their time and evaluating their options. The county’s other five municipalities voted in November to “opt out” of state provisions limiting municipal participation with information technology service. In Orchard City, the question wasn’t even on the ballot. The Orchard City trustees had essentially decided to “opt out” of “opting out,” at least for the time being. The Orchard City Town Board’s approach has been to wait and see. The trustees want more information about the many broadband promises that have been circulating in the county for months. It would have cost Orchard City about $2,500 to place an opt-out question on the November coordinated election ballot. The board chose instead to complete its 2016 budget, first taking into full account any impacts that opting out would have on town finances. There will be a municipal election in April. It will cost the town nothing extra to place an opt-out question on the ballot in April and, if

Crag Crest

approved by voters, it will not hinder the town’s ability to become “part of” the Region 10 project, trustees reasoned. Now that the town’s 2016 budget is complete and adopted, it shows that Orchard City does intend to spend money on local broadband, if voters approve. The 2016 budget sets aside $50,000, “Funding to Region 10 for Broadband middle mile from the Fruitgrowers’ Reservoir to Tank Hill for approximately 3.37 miles for the creation of a carrier neutral location.” The Delta County Commissioners have pledged up to $753,000 to make sure each

community can have a carrier-neutral location within its jurisdiction. In Orchard City’s case, the town wants to have that location moved from the Fruitgrower’s Road DMEA substation up to Tank Hill. The $50,000 is to pay the cost of that relocation and the fiberoptic cable that will service it. According to town officials, from atop of Tank Hill, access to a wireless broadband service can be made available to local Internet service providers to broadcast Internet service for fee to individuals and businesses in town — a service that would be prohibitively expensive by stringing

fiberoptic cable throughout the rural areas of the town. The town board has determined so far that it doesn’t need to be in the telecommunications business. Neither have the trustees selected any “anchor institutions” in the town limits that it wants to pay to be included in the Region 10 broadband system. Gigabit-speed broadband isn’t needed for conducting any of the town’s own operations, officials say. In November, the other county municipalities, along with county residents, voted strongly in favor of allowing their local governments to sidestep the state law restrict-

ing government from participating in the telecommunications business. In the hope of better, faster Internet access, voters gave their local governments carte blanche to enter the telecommunications business in any manner that it may see fit. But whether that means simply leasing space on town property to a private Internet provider — something which local governments could have done anyway without voting to opt out — or becoming fullblown Internet service providers themselves, as DMEA is considering, is a question that will await an answer sometime in the future.

Sewer plant construction pushes Cedaredge budget to $8 million BY HANK LOHMEYER Staff Writer

The Town of Cedaredge budget for 2016 totals a whopping $8 million in spending against anticipated revenues of $7.6 million. The budget abstract shows spending deficits posted in each of the town’s six budget funds next year. However, the town expects by year-end to retain financial reserves totaling $1.4 million across all six of its budget funds. Even though a particular spending item may be included in a

budget, individual items can be cancelled or delayed to a future year. Town officials have noted that the $8 million spending figure is being swollen in 2016 by construction of the new sewer plant. Almost half of the total spending projected for 2016 will be in the sewer fund. By comparison, the 2015 budget was $4.5 million. A budget analysis of revenue and expenditure shows 54 percent of revenues coming from grants. Another 24

Photo by Hank Lohmeyer

Grand Mesa’s Crag Crest stands snow-covered from recent storms and signals like a billboard that it’s time for winter sports activities of all kinds on the mesa — ice ﬁshing, snowshoeing, cross-country skiing, downhill skiing or boarding, sightseeing, snowman building, snowmobiling, family outings and more.

percent comes from user fees for things like sewer charges and domestic water user fees, which could be considered the town’s most important enterprises. On the expenditure side, the analysis shows 65 percent of spending is on items termed “program operation specific.” In reply to an email request for clarification, Town Administrator Katie Sickles explained the term is used generally as follows: “In most cases, program operation specific is a capital expense. In a few instances, program operation specific is for an expense that is only limited to that specific operation.” The new sewer plant could be considered a capital expense. Sickles noted some of the major aspects of the 2016 budget during a public hearing last month. They included completion of the new sewer plant; applying for a grant to replace the Jay Avenue bridge; police radar units; continued funding for the spring street fair Celebrate Cedaredge; and, continued funding for the annual Party in the Park. Trustees were told at the public hearing that a mistake in the proposed budget document had created a shortage of $60,000. Trustees held a short discussion lasting eight minutes before approving $60,000 in cuts to make up for the shortage. According to the budget message from town hall, there are “no merit increases scheduled for employees in 2016 and the budget indicates the town paying most of the extra health insurance cost.” Public works co-directors Scott Lock and Jerry Young noted some issues with their department budget during the public hearing. Lock stated

that he just wanted to bring an issue to the town board’s attention. Lock explained that public works employees had been told last year there would be no raises this year because of the large amount of overtime in the department payroll. This year overtime has been much reduced, but there are still no pay increases. Young also noted for the town board, “We really don’t know what the costs will be” to operate the new sewer treatment plant. The new facility will operate differently than the old lagoon system, and requires pumping the effluent uphill to a discharge point at Surface Creek. Actual operations costs will be learned by experience. The 2016 budget calls for a 1 percent increase in sales tax revenues. Sickles’ budget message touches on an ongoing problem for the board. It states, “With a snowier November in 2015 than in 2014, estimated golf course fund 2015 yearend revenues and expenditures highlight the concern regarding the solvency of the restaurant and make any decision all that much more complicated.” Following are totals from the town’s six budget funds: • General fund, $2.5 million in revenue against $2.55 million of expenditures; • Water fund, $842,350 in revenue against $879,218 of expenditures; • Sewer fund, $3.7 million in revenue against $3.9 million of expenditures; • Golf course, $426,500 in revenue against $448,490 of expenditures; • Capital improvements, $162,500 in revenue against $185,285 of expenditures. • Trust fund (Lottery) $25,100 in revenue against $32,100 of expenditures.

C2 Wednesday, December 30, 2015

SURFACE CREEK NEWS

Delta County Independent

Food/farm forum coming in January The fourth annual Western Colorado Food and Farm Forum, the state’s premier gathering of farmers and ranchers, and others involved in the sustainable farm community, announced its lineup of workshops and speakers. The conference, on Jan. 23 at the Montrose Pavilion, has a wide array of breakout sessions which convey vital, regionally specific agricultural information in areas including maximizing crop and livestock

production, innovative agricultural marketing and management strategies, and specialty crops. The conference theme is Farming the Future: Tools, Tips, Talent. Workshops will focus on using innovative practices and technologies to manage people, land and finances. Among other topics, the latest techniques in drip irrigation, cover cropping, electric fencing, minimum till, integrating livestock and cover cropping, marketing, financial planning and

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advocating for policy that supports the next generation of farmers will be addressed. Keynote speaker Owen Hablutzel will present Farming Futures — Human Landscape Transformations for the 21st Century. He will address how to transform agriculture to meet the challenges of rapid change by combining a mixture of older and newer practices to support an economically, socially and ecologically regenerative future. Owen states that, “The way we humans practice agriculture has the highest ‘leverage’ of any other sector in terms of both local and global outcomes for ecosystem and human health.” Brendon Rockey, recipient of the 2014 National Environmental Steward award will present on Rockey Farms practices in developing soil health using cover crops and other innovative techniques. Marc Caitlin, wellknown Colorado water expert, will clarify ramifications of the newly adopted Colorado Water Plan. Additionally, attendees can choose from among 18 breakout sessions such as: Integrating Cover Crops with Livestock, Scaling Up Row Crop Production, Marketing Your Values, Planning for Profit, Garlic and Compost Tea Production, Innovations in Drip Irrigation, New Electric Fencing Options of Friends or Foes, Livestock Health Management, Advocating for the Next Generation of Farmer, and more. On Jan. 22 the forum offers two preconference

Photo by Jeri Mattics-Omernik

Verlin Rockey, 2015 forum speaker, chats with a conference attendee. options: No Till/Minimum Till Equipment and Management Options and Sustaining or Regen-

erating Our Agricultural Land’s Principals, Practices, and Complementary Methods in Regenera-

White Christmas

tive Agriculture. Attendees can receive discounts when they attend both the preconference workshop and the forum. Scholarships are available by application to FFA, 4-H, and beginning farmers or ranchers. The Valley Food Partnership, CSU Extension, Rocky Mountain Farmers Union, National Young Farmers Coalition and Shavano Conservation District organize the Western Colorado Food and Farm Forum collaboratively. For a complete list of topics or to register for the conference and preconference workshop please visit: www.food farmforum.org or call 249-3935.

Photo by Hank Lohmeyer

Cedaredge’s snow-capped First Baptist Church made the ideal picture to illustrate the white Christmas of 2015.

Starts At 4 pm!

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Music & Dancing - 8:30 to 10:30 in the Red Dog Saloon

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Plants of the Western Slope A look at local flora with Evelyn Horn Alp Lily The top of Grand Mesa has vanished — again. I stepped out the back door a few minutes ago and that was far enough to know it is cold outside! But I always have my wondrous memories, so I’ll visit the Alp lily on this cold winter’s day.

Thank You �� Gallery, Deli & Williams Cellars 250 S. Grand Mesa Drive • Cedaredge (970) 856-7007

It was midsummer at the summit of Cottonwood Pass, elevation 12,126 feet. We walked down to our favorite spot: a more open area with a small grove of subalpine fir trees in the center. Walking over to the grove of fir … there were delicate creamywhite Globe Flowers. But I smelled skunk. I didn’t see any animals … but there was a colony of the delicate, powderblue Jacob’s Ladder … that was the source of the skunk smell! These little five-inch-tall flowers are usually smelled before they’re seen. And there were yellow Buttercups and white-flowered Anemones. There were more flowers on the far side of the rocks … a few steps and we gazed down on a colony of Alp lily. Like its companions, my little plant was less than five inches tall with two narrow, grasslike leaves about as long as the single flower stalk which supported a single blossom … six petals and six

Photo by Al Schneider coloradowildﬂowers@yahoo.com

Alp lily

stamens … a sure clue that it belonged to the Lily Family. The whitish blossom was nearly an inch broad with subtle shades of rose on the underside and pale streaks of lavender above. I checked with Wingate’s “Alpine Flow-

Happy New Year!

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er Finder” and there were the smaller leaves along the flower stalk, just as in her illustration. Six yellow anthers rose more than halfway up each petal, with the three-lobed stigma nestled at the center of the petals. At the very base was brownish material. Remnants of last year’s growth? This remnant growth provides part of my plant’s botanical name, Lloydia serotina. Latin serotina means “late,” referring to this sheath of dried growth, and Edward Lloyd was a 17th century Welsh botanist. Its common names reflect its habitat: Subalpine lily and Alp lily (from the Alps of Europe). This little plant can be found at high elevations from Alaska and through the Rockies and it occurs in Britain as an endangered species. A breeze played across the colony of Alp lily. And I had another Cottonwood Pass moment for my winter memory file. Happy Holidays!

Photo by H.Lohmeyer

A load

A garden ornament captures the sense of white Christmas that many felt on Christmas morning: a load of snow to move.

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SURFACE CREEK NEWS

Delta County Independent

Wednesday, December 30, 2015

Avalanche season is underway The avalanche season is underway across much of the U.S. with a series of sizable storms bringing heavy snowfall and strong winds to the western mountains, U.S. Forest Service officials said. The snow is falling on a weak, existing snowpack, creating dangerous conditions. High avalanche danger and avalanche warnings exist for the Western Slope of Colorado as well as parts of Washington, Idaho and Montana. “Winter, especially during the holiday season, is a time when many visitors are enjoying the fresh snow in the backcountry areas. With the current unstable snow conditions, we recommend avoiding avalanche terrain and not skiing, boarding or snowmobiling in the backcountry,” cautions Anne Janik, Public Affairs Specialist for the Grand Mesa, Uncompahgre and Gunnison National Forests. Avalanches cause more fatalities than any other natural hazard on Forest Service lands. Each win-

ter, about 30 people die in an avalanche while skiing, snowboarding, or snowmobiling in backcountry. To help mitigate this danger, the Forest Service operates a network of local avalanche centers across the country. The Colorado Avalanche Center provides current conditions in Colorado’s high country during periods of elevated avalanche danger. Avalanche warnings were in effect in the San Juan Mountains and the high country around Gunnison and Crested Butte through Dec. 24. Winter recreationalists planning to go into the backcountry should check the Colorado Avalanche Center website daily. On Monday, Dec. 28, the center posted a map showing much of the Grand Mesa, Gunnison and Uncompahgre National Forest with conditions for considerable danger of avalanche. You can view the current conditions at http:// avalanche.state.co.us. The agency encourages

visitors to educate themselves before going into areas where an avalanche is possible. To stay safe: Get the training: • Take an avalanche course, read an avalanche book and take advantage of online training opportunities on websites like the National Avalanche Center and Avalanche Canada. • Watch the updated Know Before You Go avalanche safety video. Get the advisory: • Check the Colorado Avalanche Center for current conditions in Colorado’s high country during periods of elevated avalanche danger. Get the gear: • When travelling in avalanche terrain, all members of your party need avalanche rescue gear, such as a transceiver, probes, shovel and backpack. • One important tool you cannot buy is a partner. Never go alone. Get the signs: • The three conditions of unstable snow that can

cause an avalanche are slopes steeper than 35 degrees; snowpack weakness, including recent avalanches, collapsing snow that makes a “whumpf” sound, and cracks shooting out in front of your skis or over snow vehicle when you are travelling through the snow. Safety is of great importance to the Forest Service, whether it is to help ensure the safety of our employees or our visitors. There are inherent dangers in the outdoors. It is everyone’s responsibility to ensure the safety of themselves and others around them. For more information about being safe on national forests, visit Know Before You Go.

Photo by Hank Lohmeyer

A perfect time

A cross-country skier ﬁnds perfect weather and snow conditions make for the perfect time for a winter outing last Sunday at the Skyway area on Grand Mesa.

PEOPLE

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IN THE NEWS

Congressman Scott Tipton announced this �� week that he has nomi�� nated Lydia Knutson, �� a senior at Cedaredge High School, to the U.S. �� Air Force Academy. Rep. �� Tipton nominated 24 stu�� dents from Colorado’s 3rd �� Congressional District to service academies this �� year. �� Students who applied �� were required to submit �� an essay, test scores, an �� application, letters of recommendation and tran�� scripts, and complete a �� panel interview in order to be considered. �� “It takes hard work, �� intelligence and determi�� nation to meet the high �� entrance standards of our nation’s service academies, traits that are critical for success as a leader in the armed forces. To earn a nomination, these students have met or exceeded these high standards and demonstrated a passion to serve our country,” said Tipton. Photo by Hank Lohmeyer “On behalf of the 3rd Congressional District I commend these exceptional students for their The Pioneer Town Arboretum provided a scenic, if unscientiﬁc, indication selflessness and dedicaof the amount of snow that fell in one section of the valley on Christmas �� tion, and wish them well Eve. Grand Mesa Lodge reported 18 inches that night, adding to a total in what will no doubt be a �� 55 inches of new snow in the past week. The automated weather station very bright future.” at Park Reservoir reported 53 inches accumulated as of Dec. 23, the most �� Students who are recent data available as of last weekend. �� residents of Colorado’s �� 3rd Congressional Dis�� trict and are considering applying to a U.S. Service �� Academy can find more information on the nomi365 N. Grand Mesa Dr. nation process at: http:// Cedaredge tipton.house.gov/servingyou/military-academy856-3366 Applications are now For complete applica- long history of caring for nominations. being accepted for the tion information, visit the land, while rewardprestigious Leopold Con- www.leopoldconservation ing ranchers who are servation Award® hon- award.org. excelling in their holistic oring agricultural landIn his influential 1949 approach of stewardship,” �� owners in Colorado who book, A Sand County says Bob Patterson, pres�� demonstrate outstanding Almanac, Aldo Leopold ident of the Colorado Catstewardship and manage- called for an ethical rela- tlemen’s Association. ment of natural resources. tionship between people Award applicants THEN Given in honor of and the land they own are judged based on ON renowned conservationist and manage, which he their demonstration of JAN. Aldo Leopold, the $10,000 called “an evolutionary improved resource condi2ND award recognizes private possibility and an ecolog- tions, innovation, longlandowner achievement ical necessity.” term commitment to in voluntary conserva“The outstanding agri- stewardship, sustained ND SATURDAY, JAN. 2ND tion. It is presented cultural landowners we economic viability, comMARK BERENSON - 6:30 p.m. annually by Sand County honor with the Leopold munity and civic leaderFoundation, the Colorado Conservation Award ship, and multiple use �� Cattlemen’s Association, exemplify what it means benefits. �� the Colorado Cattlemen’s to be leaders in conservaThe Colorado award �� Agricultural Land Trust, tion for the benefit of our is sponsored by Tri-State Tri-State Generation and environment,” said Kevin Generation and TransTransmission Association McAleese, Sand County mission Assoc., American and American AgCredit. Foundation president. AgCredit, DuPont Pio�� Applications are “Ranchers are the orig- neer, The Mosaic Comdue by March 8. Final- inal environmentalists. pany and the Natural ists and recipient will The Leopold Conserva- Resources Conservation be announced by April. tion Award recognizes a Service.

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Snowfall indicator

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Nominations sought for Leopold Award

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NEW YEARS EVE AT 4B’S!

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Live Music With SARA FAST & COMPANY - 9 p.m.

Happy New Year! ��

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Holiday spirits

Photo by Hank Lohmeyer

Holiday spirits are always cheered by the Eckert light display of Santa’s workshop.

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C6 Wednesday, December 30, 2015

AGRICULTURE

Delta County Independent

Reservoir evaporation a big challenge Water managers in Colorado and the West, scrambling to meet the growing demand for increasingly scarce water supplies caused by large populations far from water resources, climate change and drought, need to focus more effort on conserving water, including addressing reservoir evaporation, say University of Colorado Boulder researchers. While reducing water consumption has been successful in places like Denver and much of California, the loss of water from reservoir evaporation is an issue already affecting the growing population of the West, said CU-Boulder associate professor Katja Friedrich. The reservoir water loss is becoming even more important as broad uncertainties in precipitation projected by climate change and early snowmelt require more reservoir storage, she said. “Evaporation of water from open reservoirs in the arid western U.S. cannot be neglected any

Photo courtesy University of Colorado, Boulder

Researchers are now considering the challenge of evaporation loss from water storage reservoirs, such as Lake Powell. more, especially with the possibility of precipitation decreases occurring as a result of a changing climate,” said Friedrich, a faculty member in the Department of Atmospheric and Oceanic Sciences (ATOC). “We need to try to plan for both short-term needs and to make sure we have enough water over the coming decades.” A recent workshop on campus convened by researchers at CU-Boulder

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and the Desert Research Institute (DRI) in Reno, Nev., brought together experts in atmospheric science, hydrology, land use and water resource management from the western U.S. and Canada, said Friedrich. Water managers have little information on evaporative loss, relying on outdated methods like “pan evaporation,” developed in the 1920s and still in use today. In pan evaporation, a 4-feet-diameter, 10-inchdeep pan is set next to selected reservoirs where water managers fill the pan and measure water evaporation in 24-hour increments and extrapolate the results to corresponding reservoirs. The method is used today in many Colorado reservoirs as well as major Colorado river impoundments. The problem in part is not all reservoirs are equal in terms of location, elevation, shape or evaporation. Attendees of the CU-Boulder-hosted reservoir evaporation workshop in October proposed the use of high-resolution weather models coupled with sophisticated reservoir models, which could be used not only to estimate evaporation but also to forecast it, a method not previously considered

by water managers. Little research has been done on quantifying evaporation with instrumentation and numerical models, Friedrich said. “We need to better understand evaporation, which will require continuous measurements of wind direction and speed, air and reservoir temperatures, humidity, solar radiation and vegetation at individual reservoirs.” Evaporation is a large and continuing problem in the Colorado River basin, including Lake Mead and Lake Powell where about 5 billion gallons of water evaporate annually, according to CU-Boulder Assistant Professor Ben Livneh of the Department of Civil, Environmental and Architectural Engineering. This represents roughly 10 percent of the total natural flow of the Colorado River Basin, said Livneh, who is also a fellow at the Cooperative Institute for Research in Environmental Sciences — about five to 10 times the amount of Denver’s annual water use. “We can no longer afford to lose this amount of water. Once it is lost it is gone,” said retired ATOC scientist Bob Grossman, who helped organize the

conference on reservoir evaporation. “The neglect of evaporative loss as the cost of doing business in a water-abundant world will likely cut into the bottom line as scarcity looms.” Proposed “geo-engineering” techniques for reducing reservoir evaporation include covering surface water with thin films of organic compounds, reflective plastics or extremely lightweight shades. Other proposals include moving reservoir water underground into new storage areas or aquifers or relocating or building new storage reservoirs at higher elevations where less evaporation occurs. “One thing we do know is that you can only reduce evaporation and not eliminate it unless you store it underground,” said Friedrich. “But that has its own set of problems. Our intention is to help water managers reduce evaporation for current and future reservoirs.” To study evaporation differences in different

reservoirs, a team of scientists, water managers and federal and state agency representatives led by DRI researcher Justin Huntington deployed hightech buoys at reservoirs in California, Idaho and Nevada to better understand the water evaporation process. In addition, there is ongoing research on evaporation from the Great Lakes by CU-Boulder geography Professor Peter Blanken and his Canadian and U.S. colleagues. Participants in the October evaporation workshop included a number of universities and federal and state agencies like the U.S. Bureau of Reclamation, the Colorado Water Conservation Board, Environment Canada and the National Center for Atmospheric Research. The researchers hope to test new techniques and tools related to evaporation on a Front Range reservoir starting next year, said Friedrich.

Entries sought for ag photo contest Entries are being accepted for Range magazine’s annual photo competition, Outback Roundup 2016. Deadline for submissions is Feb. 19. Range is an award-winning publication devoted to issues that affect America’s food producers. Interested photographers can size up the 2015 competition by visiting www.rangemaga zine.com. A digital version of the winners can be found in the Summer and Fall 2015 issues, and Winter 2016. Look for entry blanks for Outback Roundup 2016 in the Winter issue or online at www.rangemagazine.

com. Click on “Win Fame, Glory and Money.” Cash prizes are: Best of Show, $216; first place, $175; second place, $150; third place, $125; and merit awards, $50. Winners will be announced and displayed at the photo symposium, “Shooting the West,” in Winnemucca, Nev., in late April, and will be showcased in the magazine. (You need not be present to win.) For information on rules, entry fees and technical information, visit www.rangemaga zine.com. It is important to remember that Outback Roundup is an alldigital contest.

Classified December 30, 2015

A World of Products and Services At Your Fingertips...

874-4421 • Fax: 874-4424 www.deltacountyindependent.com E-mail: ads@deltacountyindependent.com

REAL ESTATE

Section REAL ESTATE

REAL ESTATE

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REAL ESTATE

Let’s Make 2016 A Great Year!

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RENTALS

FOR RENT – SHOWINGS are being scheduled for a small cottage near Cedaredge. Wood stove, no smoking or pets. References, first/last/deposit ($1,125 to move in). $375/ mo. Message (970) 2092002. (tfnx50) 1 BR, 1 BA APT. WITH garage at 341 W. 6th in Delta. No smoking, no pets. Water included. $500/month; $500/deposit. Phone (970) 323-5555 or (303) 618-5839. (4x50)

Classified Line Ad Rates $6.00 for first issue (20 words or less) 12¢ per additional word 1/2 off each consecutive issue. Customers must pay when they drop off the ad, mail in a check so it arrives at least by Wednesday, put the ad on their debit or credit card, or charge the ad to their established account.

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Deadlines:

10:00 a.m. Monday for Wednesday edition. Noon Monday for "Too Late to Classify."

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HELP WANTED

Classified Ads, a great addition to your advertising campaign.

Call 874-4421 for information.

ADVERTISE 874-4421

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Give a gift they can open 52 times a year! Stop in or call the Delta County Independent to order a

GIFT SUBSCRIPTION ��

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COMMUNITY OPTIONS, Inc. has a Case Management position open. The position works with intellectually/ developmentally disabled adults. A BS/BA in discipline related to human service is required. Must be organized, have good communication, computer and people skills. Must have dependable transportation and a driving record acceptable to our insurance. Prefer at least 1-2 years experience in human services and Medicaid. Duties include all aspects of case management including eligibility, Service Plan Development and Monitoring. Excellent benefits. Please send resume to Wendy Whaley, Community Options, PO Box 31, Montrose CO 81401, or e-mail to wendywhaley @communityoptionsinc. org. Reply by Dec. 30, 2015. (3x50) OVERHOLT TRUSS CO., LLC is seeking a versatile mechanic capable of repair on diesel one ton and semi trucks, trailers and forklifts. Desirable to have some experience with varied manufacturing machinery, electrical, welding and mechanical troubleshooting. Must be able to multi task to adapt to immediate needs of the situation. Please stop by 1796 Hwy 50, Delta, CO for an application. (2x52)

D2 Wednesday, December 30, 2015 HELP WANTED

CLASSIFIEDS

HELP WANTED

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SEEKING ENERGETIC "People Person" who loves Olathe, is passionate about health equity and is great at bringing diverse people together for a shared purpose. Spanish language skills a plus. $20-$35/hour, contract, part-time, flexible hours. See full job description and application details at www.coloradotrust.org on Careers page. Open until filled. (3x50)

Advertising Makes Sense! Call 874-4421 For Info

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PUBLIC SERVICE THE DELTA COUNTY Independent runs these items as a public service free of charge for non-profit organizations, if no fees are charged. However, each group is asked to please keep them current by calling 874-4421. HOSPITAL VOLUNTEERS Wanted! Delta County Memorial Hospital needs hospital volunteers. Days and hours are flexible. There are currently openings in the ER, Oncology, Gift Shop and some additional areas. If you are interested, please contact Volunteer Coordinator, Joyce Picard at (970) 874-3841 for an application. (4x27)

PUBLIC SERVICE DELTA FOOD PANTRY needs meals for Delta families who are temporarily in need. Donations of non-perishable food may be brought to 628 Meeker. (tfx36) HELP!!! KEEP THE animal population under control, and SAVE an animal's life. Adopt your new cat or dog from the Delta County Humane Society. Adoption fee is minimal. Call 874-2149. (DCHS)

THERE IS A VFW MEETING on the first Monday of each month. At 6 p.m. there is a potluck and the meeting is at 7 p.m. at the IOOF Hall, 860 Hwy 92, Delta. For further information, call 874-8172 WOMEN ONLY AA MEET- Jim Baker, Quartermaster. ings, Delta. Wednesdays, (tfx12) 5:00 p.m., closed (Alcoholics only) at Friends BECAWS! ADOPT A DOG of Bill W. Club, 897 Palmer. or cat today. Call 970-527Saturdays, 11:00 a.m., open 3350, or visit cawsonline. (others may attend) at St. org. Delta County Citizens Luke's Episcopal Church, for Animal Welfare and 5th & Palmer (back door). Shelter (CAWS) (tfnx3) CHAPTER, UNITS OF DAV FREE DIAPERS FOR UP regular meetings on the to one year! Pregnant second Monday of each women in Delta County can month at 7 p.m. at the now get help to quit smok- Veterans Building, 15th & ing and get something they Howard, Delta. For further can really use after their information, call Paul Carter baby arrives — free diapers. 874-5150. (tfx19) Healthy moms have healthy ARE YOU NEW TO THE babies. Enroll in the Baby & Delta area? Stop by the Me Tobacco Free program Delta Area Chamber of today. Contact the Delta Commerce at 301 Main St. County Health Department for you FREE Welcome Bag, at 874-2165 or your local filled with goodies, samphysician. (TFNx2) ples, discounts and commuSUPPORT THE DELTA nity information, courtesy Public Library. Give a gently of Chamber members and used book in the Downstairs sponsored by Kim GuthrieBurch of Re/Max Today. Book Store. WELCOME RETURNING Veterans, Post 9221 VFW meets at 5:00 p.m. on the 4th Thursday of each month in Cedaredge. To find out how to participate in promoting patriotism and assisting veterans, contact Wayne Hamrick, (970) 2501180. (tfnx23) AARP DRIVER SAFETY Course. Save on insurance, keep up on newer traffic laws, learn defensive driving techniques. For details and schedule contact John Loring (970) 856-6924 or (970) 424-1778.

YOU HAVE THE POWER TO change a child's life! Children are waiting for senior partners in Delta County right now! Can you spare 3 hours a week? We need your help! Call today for more information. Please volunteer to spend time with a child in our community. Partners of Delta, Montrose and Ouray, 874-4661, www. partners-west.org. or www. deltayouth@montrose.net. (tfx13)

PAONIA AMERICAN Legion runs a year round non-perishable emergency food pantry. This is for HOTCHKISS-CRAWFORD the North Fork area. For Historical Museum. Winter information, call 527-6252. hours, Saturdays 1-4 p.m. (tfx49) thru December 24. $3 admission or free to members. SAVE EYEGLASSES, OLD Come see our museum at jewelry and silver or bits of 2nd & Hotchkiss Streets in gold and silver scraps. The Hotchkiss. 872-3780. (tfx44) Grand Odd Fellow Lodge is sending them to: New Eyes CHECK OUT THE BOOK for the Needy, 549 Millburn store at the library. You'll Ave., Short Hills, NJ 07078 find a great selection of or send them to: Gale paperbacks at reasonable Conger, Secretary of IOOF prices. Lodge #116, 544 St. Hwy. 548, Delta, CO 81416. IF YOU LOVE BOOKS, you will love the Downstairs THE AMERICAN RED Bookstore in the basement Cross needs you. Become of the Delta Public Library. one of the Red Cross volunteers who says, “We’ll Be NARCOTICS ANONY- There, Because Help Can’t mous meets at 9th and Wait!” Call your local Red Palmer, Delta, Mondays and Cross Chapter at 970-242Fridays at 8 p.m. (tfnx5) 4851 or 1-800-HELP NOW BECAWS! DONATIONS for information on the difneeded. Credit cards ference you can make in accepted. Call 970-527- someone’s life as a disaster 3350, or visit cawsonline. volunteer. ((TFNx4)) org. Delta County Citizens DELTA HAS A BOOKfor Animal Welfare and store in the basement of Shelter (CAWS) the library featuring gently SELLING YOUR HOUSE? used books and magazines. Advertise it in the DCI Clas- Come check it out! sifieds. 874-4421. SUBSCRIBE NOW!

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Delta County Independent

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.

SUPPORT THE DELTA Public Library. Give a gently used book in the Downstairs Book Store.

JOIN FORCES WITH US! Animal lovers rescue groups, shelters: let's band together and get a countywide shelter built! We FOSTER GRANDPARENT are here for the animals. Program enriches the lives Another Chance Critter of senior volunteers while Haven. 874-9011. improving the education of children with special needs. BECAWS! DOG/CAT Volunteers, 55 and older, foster families needed. Call needed to assist in class 970-527-3350, or visit cawrooms tutoring and mentor- sonline.org. Delta County ing children. Low-income Citizens for Animal Welfare volunteers may qualify for and Shelter (CAWS) a stipend. Teachers in Delta area class rooms request COLORADO QUITLINE IS "Grandparents" to come a free, confidential telein and work with students phone coaching service who need the extra help to for anyone calling from a achieve their best. For infor- Colorado area code. With mation on how you can use QuitLine, tobacco users can your talents to help kids call receive free supplies of the nicotine patch as they work Tanya at 263-9091. (tfx7) with trained coaches who PARENTS — FREE create a personalized quit information and referrals plan just for them. To confor licensed child care pro- tact the QuitLine, call 1-800viders. Call Bright Futures QUIT-NOW (1-800-784-8669) Child Care Resource & or visit www.coquitline.org. Referral at 877-728-5613. BECAWS! DO YOU HAVE (TFNx1) an animal rescue sucBECAWS! VOLUNTEERS cess story to share? Call needed. Call 970-527-3350, 970-527-3350, or email or visit cawsonline.org. rescuemagazine@gmail. Delta County Citizens for com. Delta County Citizens Animal Welfare and Shelter for Animal Welfare and (CAWS) Shelter (CAWS)

BECAWS! DISCOUNT spay and neuter coupons available. Call 970-5273350, or visit cawsonline. org. Delta County Citizens for Animal Welfare and PLEASE HELP! VOLUNShelter (CAWS) teers needed to help get FARM WORKER HEALTH new animal shelter in Delta Services: We offer assis- off the ground. We need tance with medical, dental temporary or long term and medicines. If you work foster homes, foot soldiers, in agriculture you may light research, paperwork qualify for our services. For and phone people. Many more information call 323- hands make light work. 0538. (tfx12) Thank you! Another Chance Critter Haven. 874-9011. SERVICIOS DE SALUD De Campesinos: Ofrecemos DEDUCT IT FROM YOUR ayuda con doctores, dentis- taxes! Donations of: pet tas, y medicinas. Si trabajas food, old blankets, towen agricultura puedes califi- els, kennels, carriers, pet car para nuestros servicios. beds or dishes, and money Para mas informacion llame always appreciated. Another al 323-0538. (tfx12) Chance Critter Haven. 8749011. 501 (c) (3) THINK YOU'RE PREGnant? Abused? Need help? ADVERTISE TODAY! The Pregnancy Resource Center in Delta offers free service, support and advice to all teenagers and women in crisis pregnancy situations. For Christian help, anytime, call 874-5733. YOU CAN QUIT. WE CAN help. Colorado Tobacco Quitline offers free, confidential assistance. Call 1800-QUIT-NOW. (TFNx28).

PARENTS FREE! INFORMation and referrals to licensed child care providers, call Bright Futures Child Care Resource and Referral, 1-877-728-5613. (TFNx4) FOUND SOMEONE'S puppy? Let them find it in the DCI Classifieds.

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THE DELTA COUNTY Democratic Party invites you to visit their Facebook page for announcements, information and intelligent discussion of issues. You are not alone! Contact www.facebook.com/pages/ CO-Delta-County-Democrat s/109082339170167 BECAWS! DONATION items needed for Barkin' Bargains Thrift Store in Paonia. Call 970-527-5111. Delta County Citizens for Animal Welfare and Shelter (CAWS) GET QUICK RESULTS, advertise in the DCI Classifieds. Call today 874-4421.

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FAMILIES BELIEVING in families: Tandem Families is an innovative, private non-profit mentoring program providing services for at-risk children of Delta and Mont-rose counties. Anyone interested in volunteering their services or donating usable items should call 874-3000 or 2527445. (TFNx8) THE AMERICAN LEGION Post 97 Paonia is seeking the names and addresses of all persons currently serving on active duty in the military from the North Fork Valley in order to contact them and show our support. Send addresses to American Legion Post 97, PO Box 277, Paonia, CO 81428 or call 527-6552.

PUBLIC SERVICE

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PUBLIC NOTICES

Delta County Independent

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Wednesday, December 30, 2015

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PUBLIC NOTICES

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SERVICE DIRECTORY

Delta County Independent

Wednesday, December 30, 2015

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D6 Wednesday, December 30, 2015

BACK PAGE

B A C K P A G E BY PAT SUNDERLAND

Managing Editor

n entire room is dedicated to Lois Helgeland’s incredible Victorian village, but that’s just the beginning ... there are delightful discoveries to be found throughout her house at Christmastime. To say Christmas is Lois’ favorite holiday is clearly an understatement. Family members can only shake their heads when she brings home a tiny building she picked up at Heirlooms for Hospice, or an advent calendar from Renova-

An antique buffet provides a mas decor.

Delta County Independent

A wonder to behold

An addition to the Helgeland house gave Lois room to display her growing village.

cary, blacksmith shop, pewter dealer, toy store, Christmas shoppe and the City Gazette. A firehouse, police department and post office are neatly arranged around the clock tower in the center of the square. Lois tries to contain “town” on one of the five tables. “Town is about full … I might be able to squeeze in one more building,” she said. A church and a school separate “town” from the residential area, where ornate multistoried Victorians line the street. All the buildings are lighted at night to complete the magical scene. In front of the houses is a park where children build snowmen, walk their dogs, have snowball fights and skate on the frozen pond. The houses thin out at the edge of the forest, which takes up another table. While similar in size, the buildings are from a variety of manufacturers and have been purchased over the years at Delta Hardware, Michael’s and Lowe’s. After Christmas, each building goes back into its original box “and I stay out of the way,” says Lois’ husband Bob. “The decor in this room is all ocean the rest of the year,” Lois said. Her fascination with the ocean dates to a trip she took to visit an aunt Photo by Pat Sunderland in Oregon when she was a beautiful backdrop for Christ- young girl. She bridges summer and winter decor with a small tree covered with nautical ornaments. It’s positioned adjacent to “lighthouse corner,” which boasts seven lighthouses and a new boat. Moving into the main part of the house, Lois points out Charlie Brown world, where with a touch of a button Lucy cries out, “Ugh, I’ve been kissed by a dog!” Another display plays the “Peanuts” theme. Throughout the house, display cases and shelves are filled with snowmen, Santas, tors Warehouse that will be a perfect addition to her collection. But that’s OK— Lois has holiday spirit to spare. And thanks to an addition to her home, she also has room to set up five rectangular tables for her village. When that addition was completed in 2006, the village consisted of just five buildings and a gazebo. It’s grown from there. At last count, Lois said she had 182 small figurines of animals and people. The village square boasts two pubs, a general store, a mill, a liquor store, an apothe-

angels and more, but there’s order among the chaos. Lois puts a lot of thought into her groupings, pausing as she moves through the house to shift a figurine just a bit. The artificial tree is a work in progress, but when completed will display 250-300 ornaments, each one unique. Lois points out the pieces she’s picked up during her extensive travels. Lois is entering her 33rd year as a 4-H leader, and many of the trips she’s taken have been to state, regional and national 4-H forums. Closer to home, she said she’s on a first-name basis with the owners of the Hallmark store in Pueblo, where she’s a building super-

intendent for the Colorado State Fair. There are no longer any Hallmark stores on the Western Slope, she said, so she makes it a point to visit the Pueblo store every summer. Then in the winter, she brings out the new pieces, carefully arranging them alongside the classics that have been part of her holiday displays for years. Where some see a lot of work, Lois treasures the opportunity to create holiday memories. If you’d like to see her village, give her a call — but be sure to allow plenty of time to fully appreciate all the intricate details of the magical scene she’s set.

Photo by Pat Sunderland

Lighthouse corner, complete with a new boat.

Photo by Pat Sunderland

This reindeer training center is one of several ceramic pieces Lois ﬁnished herself.

Photo by Pat Sunderland

Lucy, Linus, Snoopy and Charlie Brown are all part of this winter scene at the Brown house.

Photo by Pat Sunderland

The pastel-colored house in the center of this photo is one Photo by Pat Sunderland of Lois’ favorites, mainly because of its detail. Clothes have This tree’s nautical theme been hung out to dry on one side of the house, and the living reﬂects Lois’ love of the room window provides a glimpse of a holiday scene inside. ocean.

Photo by Pat Sunderland

The snow-covered forest invokes a feeling of serenity.