Delta County Independent, Jan. 20, 2016 by Delta County Independent

NORTH FORK TIMES

SURFACE CREEK NEWS

FIRST OF ITS KIND

SPORTS

A FOND FAREWELL

Paonia cohousing development granted conditional approval, B1

FLYING HIGH

Honored couple ‘touched every corner of the community,’ C1

Paonia boys’ basketball team is rapidly moving up in state polls, B6

DELTA COUNTY

JANUARY 20, 2016 VOL. 133, NO. 3

75¢

INDEPENDENT

www.deltacountyindependent.com

Two sentenced in motorcyclist’s death BY PAT SUNDERLAND Managing Editor

In the fall of 2013, Trever Rawson had recently earned a bachelor’s degree in information systems and was looking forward to starting a new job in Salt Lake City. Between the upcoming move to Utah and his impending marriage, he was the happiest family members had seen him in a long time. Then tragedy struck. Rawson’s life was taken during a reckless act that Judge Jeff Herron summed up as “one of the most stupid things I have ever seen.” Rawson, 34, was riding his motorcycle on Highway 92, en route to his parents’ house in Hotchkiss, as the sun was setting on Oct. 12, 2013. At the same time, Mark Valdez, Kevin Keener and Valdez’s nephew were attempting to retrieve an elk they’d shot on a hillside adjoining the highway in rural Montrose County. They attached one end of a chain to Valdez’s truck and the other to the elk. Valdez drove his truck across the highway, stringing the rope across both lanes of travel about five and a half feet off the ground. Rawson struck the rope, making contact with his chest and helmet, causing a severed spinal cord and his death. Initially, Valdez and Keen-

Trever Rawson

er left the scene, then claimed Rawson “just crashed,” and that they did not see anything. After an intensive investigation involving the Colorado State Patrol, wildlife officers and the district attorney’s office, a grand jury handed down lengthy indictments against both Valdez and Keener in April 2014. As the judicial process slowly moved forward, numerous counts were dropped and the men were allowed to enter into plea agreements, over strenuous objections from Rawson’s family. Sentencing took place last week in Montrose District Court. Joint sentencing hearings are unusual, Judge Herron noted, but meant Rawson’s family members had to speak just once. His mother, Kathy Diderecksen, said Trever’s death may be the only one on record but there was another — hers. When Trever was overdue, she and her parents went looking for him and came across the accident scene south of Crawford. She recognized the motorcycle; she recognized the helmet. She was told the “deceased” had been taken to Delta. “The word deceased was like fire in my ears,” she said. No, her body did not die, but her mind, spirit and soul were taken that night. “Even saying goodbye was taken from me,” she said. Her son was “left on the side of the road like a piece of garbage.” The two defendants lied from the moment the accident took place, and they did not attempt to render aid. They should not be rewarded [with light sentences] for the misery they’ve inflicted, she told Judge Herron. “Trever was needed here,” she said. “He had a future and loved ones who depended on him ... he was not perfect but the world has truly lost a wonderful and beautiful human being.” Harvey Didericksen referred to the “822 days lived in hell” since Trever was

killed. To let Valdez and Keener plead to lesser charges ... there’s no justice, he said. Trever’s two brothers, Grady and Robert, testified how the defendants’ actions have crippled an entire family, including a relationship with Trever’s young daughter, who now lives in Florida with her mother. During the hearing, district attorney Dan Hotsenpiller exercised his right to present evidence from investigators with Colorado Parks and Wildlife and the Colorado State Patrol.

Hearing and speechimpaired members of the community, or those in a situation where it is too dangerous to dial 911, have another option to call for help in an emergency — text to 911. “Call if you can – text if you can’t” is the slogan developed by the Federal Communications Commission (FCC) as the technology becomes available in Colorado. The Delta County Sheriff ’s 911 Dispatch is equipped to receive and respond to text messages sent to 911. All phones or devices must include a text or data plan to send a text to 911. This announcement comes

INDEX

Accent ........................... A4 Activities ....................... A7 Agriculture .....................C8 Bruin Tracks ................C3-6 Church ........................... D4 Classifieds .................. D1-2 Editorial ......................... A2 Health & Fitness .........B4-5 Legals ......................... D2-3 North Fork Times ........B1-3 Obituaries ..................... A6 School Zone .................. A5 Service Directory ........ D7 Sports ..........................B6-8 Surface Creek News ...C1-7 TV Listings ................. D5-6

after the nation’s four largest wireless service providers, AT&T Mobility, Sprint, T-Mobile, and Verizon Wireless, in cooperation with the FCC, National Emergency Number Association, and the Association of Public Safety Officials agreed in 2012 to provide Text-to-911 as a nationwide interim solution until the Next Generation of 911 is deployed. Text-to911 technology will provide the public with an additional means of requesting emergency services and will provide additional support to the deaf, hard-of-hearing, and the speech-impaired community.

Stroup also attended the autopsy performed by Dr. Michael Benziger, and relayed his findings along with Dr. Benziger’s observation that Rawson’s death would have been instantaneous. The cause of death: multiple traumatic injuries. Valdez pleaded guilty to manslaughter (reckless) and transfer or alteration of a hunting/fishing license. Keener pleaded guilty to criminally negligent homicide and willful destruction of big game wildlife. PRISON SENTENCES TO A6

Photo by Rick Spalenka

Backyard visitors

Domestic cows pass through the Spalenka property northwest of Cedaredge frequently, but never have a cow elk and calves been seen. Some even laid down for a rest. “In the 20 years living here we have never seen elk so close to the house,” he said.

Businessman takes steps to boost economy BY HANK LOHMEYER

Dispatch equipped to receive 911 texts

Tammy Stroup, the chief investigator in the district attorney’s office, reviewed portions of the grand jury transcript which included testimony from Valdez’s nephew. Although he was only 16 years old at the time, Fidel Olivas recognized the plan to retrieve the elk was “preposterous” and defied common sense. He also told the grand jury that the night before the hunt both men had consumed beer and hard alcohol, and had been smoking marijuana, all of which they also provided to him.

Staff Writer

A Delta County businessman with strong feelings about the future of the local economy is taking steps to try and improve it. Mark Eckhart is the owner of Long Haul Folding Kayaks. As a businessman, he sees that a turnaround in the county’s economic fortunes is going to require money. He believes he knows where some of that money can come from and has launched a petition campaign to get public support for the idea. Eckhart supports the funding proposal that is the critical centerpiece of the Economic Development Administration (EDA) plan for county economic diversity. He agrees with the EDA study that CDOT should take over ownership of the City of Delta’s recently completed alternate truck route.

Child abuse hotline The Colorado Department of Human Services (CDHS) on Jan. 1 marked the one-year anniversary of the launch of 1-844-CO-4KIDS, a statewide hotline to report suspected child abuse and neglect. The hotline directly links callers 24 hours a day, 365 days a year to the appropriate call-taker among the state’s 65 counties. Counties have historically received and handled reports of child abuse and neglect. That has not changed. Counties remain on the frontlines when it comes to this critical role. The hotline was built to streamline the process. All reports of suspected child abuse and neglect remain confidential.

By doing that and paying off the some $22 million in bonds city taxpayers currently owe on the project, the $1.4 million annual payment on those bonds would become available to help fund economic diversity projects in the county. The money could be used as matching grant funds and “seed” money. The EDA study has recommended that money be used to develop an organic produce industry here. Other recommendations presented during an unveiling last month would include building a large hotel and conference center. Another idea is to develop lifestyle amenities, concepts compared with Boulder’s Pearl Street Mall, that would include housing and commercial developments and that would attract the “missing demographic” to the county. That missing demographic, also referred to as “the cre-

ative class” is defined broadly as young, educated, workingage people who would help create new economic enterprises. Eckhart has the same reasons as many others for wanting to see the county’s economy grow. “My house is here. My family is here. My business is here, too,” Eckhart said. His efforts also spring from a sense of frustration about how things are going with the national and local economies. “You look at the jobs that have been lost — the sawmill, Meadow Gold, and the mines. There are vacancies on Main Street. We need a plan in Delta County or things are going to continue to get worse. The issues that need to be dealt with, they are huge issues.” Eckhart says he sees no sense in CDOT owning a PETITION DRIVE TO A3

Tipton blasts coal moratorium

Congressman Scott Tipton (R-CO) is calling the Department of the Interior’s (DOI) moratorium on federal coal leasing an “irresponsible, politically motivated decision that jeopardizes America’s energy future.” On Friday, Interior Secretary Sally Jewell announced a comprehensive review that will take “a careful look at issues such as how, when and where to lease; how to account for the environmental and public health impacts of federal coal production; and how to ensure American taxpayers are earning a fair return for the use of their public resources.” While the

review is taking place, the Interior Department will institute “a pause” on new coal leases. Existing coal production activities will not be affected. “Once more the president is picking winners and losers, choosing his ideology over the working class communities and hardworking Americans that make an affordable and reliable energy supply for the nation possible,” Tipton said. “We need to look no further than communities in Colorado, like Craig and Delta, that have seen firsthand the devastating toll the president’s misguided energy policies have had on the economy.”

A2 Wednesday, January 20, 2016

OPINION

LETTERS Support for the homeless has been overwhelming Dear Editor: As we begin this new year and reflect on the past year, we remain overwhelmed and overjoyed by the way this community has come together to create a warm, safe place for homeless men, women and families at the brand new facility of The Abraham Connection. More than a building, you have created a sanctuary, a place of hope and faith, a home. To all those who have believed in and supported this mission since the get-go; to those who have prayed, donated supplies, given financial assistance, planned and worked at events; to those who have purchased nachos at Deltarado Days and

Girl Talk spa day tickets and who have participated in our other fundraisers; to those who have worked tirelessly on late-night shifts and early-morning shifts, prepared meals, washed laundry, scrubbed bathrooms; to those who have provided a friendly face, a listening ear, counsel, friendship and support to our guests: thank you. Thank you for every act of generosity you have given to the mission, to this organization, and to our guests over the years. Thank you for opening your hearts in very big ways to help those in need. We continue to offer nightly shelter at our new facility at 480 Sil-

ver Street. Our doors are open to those who need us, and our doors are open to those who wish to serve, in any capacity. We remain overwhelmed at your generous offers to help the many who need a hand up. We have trainings scheduled for Jan. 20 and Feb. 11 at 6:30 p.m., at Westminster Hall. We can be reached at 970773-8290 for more information, or to learn about additional volunteer/ training opportunities. To send a tax-deductible donation, mail to P.O. Box 910, Delta. Cheryl Oeltjenbruns President Board of Directors The Abraham Connection

Schools should be more supportive of single moms time should be dedicated Dear Editor: I am sure I am not the to learning reading, writonly single mom who feels ing and arithmetic. From 4 to 9 p.m. is my time, this way: Recently, my 7-year-old because I take care of son brought home his sec- food, clothing and shelter. I am not at home all ond-quarter report card. His grades were exactly day like June Cleaver, the same as the quarter doing just the domestic before and it made me stuff. I am earning a livwonder if his teacher lost ing and a good living that her grade book. The notes will help my children for were very telling, how- many years to come. My ever. His teacher wrote, evenings, however, are (Student’s) “low grades are mine and my son’s to have due to incomplete work or family time. Whether we failing to turn work in.” watch a movie or read a My son’s grades reflect book, this is our time. I my unwillingness to do have from 4 to 9 p.m. to make sure he is fed, clean homework with him. As a single mom, I am and done with chores. We already doing the work of typically have just enough two people to raise this time to watch a movie and child. It is completely wind down from our day unacceptable to me as a before bedtime (for both taxpayer, and as a mom of us). Making him eat his needing more support, not more duties, to require greens, take his dishes to moms to�� do the work of the sink, collect eggs, take out the garbage, clean up teachers too. �� My son is at school his messes, take a showfrom 8:15 to 3:15. This er and spending quality

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time together is how my evenings are spent. Making him do homework is simply unreasonable and his report card should not reflect poor scores because of my unwillingness to take the additional 30 minutes out of my evening to do what my tax dollars should be doing. When I called my son’s principal about making my son do his homework at school, I was met with: You are not making your son a priority in your life if you are not doing homework with him. The insensitivity of this elementary school principal is unacceptable. I take my son to wrestling practice twice a week and piano lessons once a week. I have very little time for myself, and this principal insulted me and a large portion of our population. Here are a few statistics that should influence our schools to be more supportive to moms: According to the Women’s Bureau, “Of the 123 million women ages 16 years and over in the U.S., 72 million, or 58.6 percent, were labor force participants — working or looking for work. Women comprised 47 percent of the total U.S. labor force. Women are projected to account for 51 percent of the increase in total labor force growth between 2008 and 2018.” Also, “Unmarried mothers have higher labor force participation rates than married mothers. In March 2013, 75.4 percent of unmarried mothers with children under 18 years old were in the labor force, compared with 68.1 percent of married mothers with children in the same age range.” The labor force participation rate of all women with children under 18 years of age was 70.3 percent in March 2013. Finally, “If women hadn’t dramatically increased how much time they spend working for pay outside the home since the late 1970s, gross domestic product (GDP) would have been about 11 percent lower in 2012, according to a new report from the Center for American Progress.” There is no doubt, schools need to pick up the slack and quit pushing their jobs on parents who are creating the revenue that pays for their educational service. Tammy Murray Delta DELTA COUNTY

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

Delta County Independent

A clear case of liberalism Dear Editor: Regarding the letter in the Jan. 13 issue of DCI written by Robin Nicholoff: It does not move any debate forward to publish a liberal hit piece about someone who happens to agree with many others, but not you. There was no rebuttal to the merits of the opinion published, only a direct attack on Mr. Herby probably because he had the courage to publish an Internet post that accurately and succinctly presented his views. The accusation of plagiarism fails because definitions indicate that an author (singular) has ethical, not legal, protections. The article submitted by Mr. Herby was nothing more than an opinion probably modified many times during its life on the Internet. There was no singular (actually there were several questionable) authors identified on the Internet version. The only action

that might have satisfied the radical vitriol accusations presented by Mr. Nicholoff would have been a notice that the letter was taken from an anonymous piece available on the Internet. According to SNOPES: This piece lamenting that the “American dream ended last night in Ohio” has been circulating online since November 2012, the “last night in Ohio” line referring to President Barack Obama’s having won the electoral. (Later versions of the piece replaced the phrase “last night” with “on Nov. 6, 2012” for clarity.) Although many readers have forwarded this piece to us for evaluation, from our standpoint there’s nothing much to analyze. This item is an opinion piece, someone’s subjective expression of political vitriol; it’s not an item containing informa-

It’s time to make your voice heard Dear Editor: The time has come to make your voices heard! On the political scene you have more opportunities than just voting on the first Tuesday of November. If you are a registered voter in one of the major political parties, you can attend the caucus of your local party precinct. Go to your party website or watch the papers for times and places. At the caucus you will have the opportunity to vote for the people that will represent you at the county assembly and/or the state convention of your party. You may also seek to be one of those representatives. This is where the process starts to determine which candidates will be on the

primary and general election ballots. If you are an independent, you have no say in this process because you have no “horse” in this race. However, all the political parties will be after your vote in the general election so you are likely to get more phone calls and mailings than you would if you are registered in one of the parties. Politics DOES affect your life and remember — just because you don’t take an interest in politics doesn’t mean that politics won’t take an interest in you. Taking part in the political process is one of the privileges of being an American. Vic Ullrey Paonia

tion that could be examined for its truth value. The only factual element to this item is its attribution, which is incorrect: These words were not delivered at the Jacksonville Pastors’ Conference in January 2015 by Franklin Graham, the president and CEO of the Billy Graham Evangelistic Association. This item had already been circulating anonymously for more than two years prior to that event, attributed to no particular individual or publication. (From what we can tell, someone later added the salutation “Semper Fi” to the text, which prompted someone else to include a header stating that the piece was “written by a USMC vet.”). Bill Sutton Delta

Looking for witnesses Dear Editor: My stepfather passed away recently in a car accident. On Jan. 10 around 5 p.m., heading eastbound on Highway 92, there was a collision right outside of Austin. It occurred at mm 7, or basically at the bottom of that curving hill. Thankfully, my mom is physically alright. She was reading and didn’t see what clearly happened. All I want to know is what happened? In the midst of our grief, we find ourselves just looking for answers. If anyone witnessed this accident, will you please contact me or my mom. My number is 970-623-1094; my mom is Kim and her number is 970-623-1014. Jeze Fabijanic Paonia

Educational options for your children Dear Editor: Classical Conversations, or what we call CC, is a great option to public school. It gives you a fun, interactive way to teach your children the education you desire them to get to succeed in our ever-changing world. The learning styles used are very flexible, and can be imple-

mented to fit any student needs. We sing our lessons, review through games and other creative activities that keep our energetic children engaged and excited to learn. We meet once a week. Parents and students gather in a classroom-like setting and go over the week’s lessons in which parents are

encouraged to glean any games or activities to use for lessons at home. Everyone is there to support each other in teaching and learning, as a community of friends. You do not have to feel daunted in your quest to insure your children get a good education. Royal Ann Larson Cedaredge

Law enforcement blotter Dustin D. Deihl, 35, of From the Delta Delta was arrested and Police Department: jailed for alleged criminal mischief and harassJan. 11: Thomas Jungers, 54, ment. of Delta was issued a Jan. 17: Gordon R. Olsen, 56, ticket for alleged driving on laned roads after of Grand Junction was being involved in a two- arrested and jailed on a vehicle crash in the 1500 warrant with a $1,000 block of Highway 50. No bond. Derek D. Munyon, 33 injuries were reported or observed. Both vehicles of Delta was arrested and were driven from the jailed for alleged criminal mischief. scene. Citations: Eight tickJan. 12: Betty J. McKinney, 74, ets for traffic violations of Crawford was issued a were issued this week, ticket for alleged failure four for speeding. Please remember: All to yield right of way after being involved in a two- criminal charges are vehicle crash in the 500 merely an accusation block of Meeker Street. and the defendant is preNo injuries were reported sumed innocent until or or observed. Both vehi- unless proven guilty. cles were driven from the From the Delta scene. County Sheriff’s Office Jan. 13: Jeni R. Heidrick, 33, of (partial list): Hotchkiss was arrested and jailed on a warrant Jan. 12: A City of Delta crew with a $300 bond. Bradley D. Long, 46, of working on the road near Cedaredge was arrested the golf course heard a and jailed for alleged dis- gunshot hit the water tank next to them. No orderly conduct. fresh bullet holes were Jan. 14: Brent D. West, 30, of located, however, and Delta was arrested and deputies speculated the jailed for alleged third popping sound was made degree assault, and two by expansion of the tank. Jan. 13: counts of child abuse. The bus garage at the Jan. 15: William C. Campbell, North Fork Montessori 51, of Delta was arrest- School at Crawford was ed and jailed for alleged broken into. Gas, batDUI, DUI per se and fail- teries, an assortment of ure to yield right of way tools and first aid kits from a stop sign after valued at $1,743.98 were being involved in a three- taken. There are no susvehicle crash on Conflu- pects. ence Drive at Highway Jan. 14: Charles Carter, 45, 348 crossing. One person sustained injuries. of Paonia was reported All three vehicles were missing by his wife. He was last seen Jan. 11, towed from the scene.

when it was believed he had left town to visit a friend. Family members became concerned about his absence and called 911. A description of Carter and his vehicle were entered into a national database. On the morning of Monday, Jan. 18, Carter called his family to report he was in Mesa, Ariz., and had found work in a marble quarry. Deputies are attempting to make direct contact with Carter. Jan. 15: Snowy, icy road conditions caused a number of accidents on Highway 65 near Cedaredge between 9 and 10 a.m. Shortly before 9 p.m., a snowmobile trailer parked on Blue Sky Drive, Delta, caught fire. The homeowner hooked the trailer up to move it away from the house, to contain the damage. Jan. 17: An Orchard City woman spotted two boys first throwing rocks onto Fruitgrowers Reservoir, then venturing onto the ice. She warned them about the danger, and when they ignored her, called dispatch. Deputies contacted the boys’ parents, who agreed the boys, ages 15 and 16, should stay off the ice. CORRECTION: A report about a two-car accident that took place on Dec. 19 incorrectly identified one of the drivers as Signe DeGraffenreid. She was not the driver, but the registered owner of the vehicle involved in the accident on Highway 92.

LOCAL NEWS

Delta County Independent

Wednesday, January 20, 2016

Petition drive

Photo by Hank Lohmeyer

Businessman Mark Eckhart began his petition drive walking Main Street Delta last week. There is an online version of the petition at https://goo.gl/ EHc4vK.

FROM PAGE A1 stretch of highway that runs straight through downtown Delta carrying every kind of cargo when an alternative is available. CDOT itself should recognize its own sphere of interest lies in getting out of Main Street traffic and into the highway traffic business. The alternative to Highway 50 through downtown is the alternate truck route. The idea of CDOT and Delta swapping ownership of the truck route and Highway 50 through downtown has been discussed since the truck route was in its planning phases. The talk has since progressed to an idea for funding projects in the county; Eckhart wants to take it a step further and is gathering public support. He has mounted a petition drive he hopes will gain enough grass-

Commissioners adopt budget of $27.7M BY HANK LOHMEYER Staff Writer

The Delta County Commissioners have adopted a budget for 2016 totaling $27.7 million in spending. That is the largest budget appropriation since 2011 when the county’s annual budget appropriation was $28.1 million. In the six-year span from 2011 to 2016, the smallest budget figure adopted by the county was $25.4 million in 2013. The county’s proposed spending plan for 2016 in the general fund totals $10.7 million. The largest individual department appropriations in the spending plan are the sheriff ’s office and the jail, taking $1.9 million each. The assessor’s office budget is $680,231; the county share for 7th Judicial District attorney is $600,670; county buildings and grounds get $584,918; dispatch

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takes $531,512; and the commissioners’ spending is projected at $503,812, which includes appropriations for special projects in each of the three commissioner districts. The general fund distributes money to 34 different government departments. In addition to the general fund, the county has 16 other separate funds in its budget system. Outside of the general fund, spending in road and bridge is set at $6 million; human services is $3.8 million, a total that includes a major portion of funding from the state and federal governments; capital improvements is $2.2 million; health department is $1.1 million; and, the enterprise fund (landfill) and capital projects funds will each see $1.1 million in 2016.

City to simplify special event liquor licenses BY PAT SUNDERLAND

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Managing Editor

An ordinance is being drafted that would allow the Delta city clerk to handle most liquor license renewals, transfers of ownership and special event liquor requests without city council approval. As long as the applicant has had no liquor violations, and has the endorsement of the Delta Police Department, those routine matters will no longer require a hearing before city council. Nonprofit organizations seeking special

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SUBSCRIBE TO DCI 874-4421

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Commissioners certified mill levies for the county, school district and other taxing entities in the county including the fire districts and the municipalities. Commissioners adopted a total mill levy of 15.733 mills for the county. That will raise $4.97 million distributed among four different budget funds. The mill levy for School District 50J is 27.386 which will raise $8.67 million. For the county municipalities, mill levies certified by the BoCC are as follows: Cedaredge, 7.906 mills raising $144,892; Crawford, 2.42 mills raising $6,412; Delta, no property taxation; Hotchkiss, 7.3 mills raising $67,220; Orchard City, no property taxation; Paonia, 8.322 mills raising $103,243.

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event liquor licenses will save the expense of the state fee, as well as the time needed to process those applications. During a discussion of the matter Jan. 5, it was noted the Colorado Revised Statutes grant local licensing authorities the ability to approve liquor renewals and transfers of ownership without a hearing. The statutes also give the city the option to assume exclusive control over and responsibility for the issuance of special event permits within its jurisdiction. “Allowing for administrative approval will streamline and make more efficient the procedures by which the city reviews and approves applications,” city clerk Jolene Nelson noted in a memo to city council. “The savings for the applicant on special events permits will be $25 per day on the requested permit. There is no cost savings for the applicant on renewals or transfer of ownership.” An amendment to the municipal code must be approved by city council prior to implementation of the expedited process. New liquor licenses will still require a hearing, and any applications generating concern would also be brought to council. Councilmembers also considered a “consent agenda” which could theoretically save some time, but council meetings are generally not long enough to require that step at this time. “I always tell my other clients how efficient Delta is,” said city attorney David McConaughy. In other business, the Delta City Council ratified the employment contract for city manager David Torgler. His first day on the job will be Monday, Jan. 25.

roots support to pressure CDOT and the state government into accepting the idea. Last week, Eckhart began walking Delta’s Main Street asking for signatures on petitions he has prepared that will accommodate up to 5,000 names. His petition is not intended to lead to a ballot question or election on the issue. Rather, it is a showing of public support for the concept. “It is to put pressure on CDOT and the governor to act on this issue,” he said. “This is a grassroots effort. This is the public speaking. It is saying to CDOT, ‘What are you doing about this?’ ” He has included the following statement of intent attached to the petitions: “We, the undersigned, who reside in Delta County, Colorado, DEMAND that the Colorado Department of Transportation take over funding of the [alternate truck route] and that this funding takes place in the year of 2016.” Eckhart plans to make the petitions available throughout Delta County, as well as online at https://goo.gl/EHc4vK. Petitions are also available at his business, Long Haul Folding Kayaks, 16869 Ward Creek Road. He also invites people to call him at 856-3662 or email at eckhart@tds.net. Eckhart said he is also making posters available to local businesses to place in their store windows. He said he intends to take the results of his

Like us. drive “to the highest levels of CDOT that would be dealing with this issue, and to the state, including the governor.”

DELTA COUNTY

INDEPENDENT www.deltacountyindependent.com

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A place where you can bee yourself Follow us on

A4 Wednesday, January 20, 2016

ACCENT

Delta County Independent

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Instruments of change

Backyard Cafe

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Fifth grade students at Garnet Mesa Elementary School (GMES) raised $852 for the Malala Fund, which supports the right and access for girls around the world to receive an education. Students raised the money with a “Change for Change” drive by collecting spare change from GMES students the week before Christmas and through Christmas ornament sales by the Greenhouse Club. The fundraiser was completed in conjunction with a book study of “I Am Malala” by Malala Yousafzai. The students appreciate all of the support received for this cause.

Gilberts celebrate 60th wedding anniversary

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Breakfast • Lunch • Catering

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Mary Avara and Jerry Grosshans

– WEDNESDAY SPECIAL – ��

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Jerry Grosshans of Eckert and Mary Avara of Cedaredge announce their engagement to be married at 2 p.m. Feb. 14. The wedding will be held at the Cedaredge Community United Methodist Church, 3rd and Aspen.

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Valentine’s wedding planned

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Harry and Peggy Gilbert, Delta County residents until 2003, celebrated their 60th wedding anniversary on Christmas Eve. They began dating in high school. They graduated from Delta High School in 1955 and were married in the Delta Presbyterian Church after completing their first quarter of classes at Colorado A & M College, later named Colorado State University. They returned to Delta County in 1961 after Harry earned a degree in mechanical engineering. He joined his fatherin-law, Paul Porter, in his business of Delta Plumbing & Heating. Peggy worked part time and was a stay-at-home mom for Beth (1956) and Susan (1961).

BIRTHS Lance Kappel and Hope Case of Austin are the parents of a daughter, Bonnie Raelynn Kappel, born Jan. 6, 2016, at Delta County Memorial Hospital. She weighed 6 pounds, 5.4 ounces and was 19 inches in length. Keegan and Esther Burke of Delta are the parents of a daughter, Lael Mae Burke, born

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Enjoy Singing?

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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

Jan. 7, 2016, at Delta County Memorial Hospital. She weighed 8 pounds, 2 ounces and was 20.5 inches in length. Ryan and Lisa Cole of Delta are the parents of a son, Ashton William Cole, born Jan. 8, 2016, at St. Mary’s Hospital in Grand Junction. He weighed 6 pounds, 8 ounces and was 19 inches in length. He has two siblings, Kiauna DeLeon and Jocelyn Cole. His grandparents are David and Linda Wilcox of Delta and Toni McMaster of Morongo Valley, Calif. Emily Paige Wray and Ryan Turtura of Cedaredge are the parents of a daughter, Ariadne Paige Turtura, born Nov. 20, 2015, at Delta County Memorial Hospital. She weighed 4 pounds, 13.6 ounces and was 18 inches in length.

Women with cancer meet for lunch, support The Delta County Breast and Women’s Cancer Support Group meets the last Friday of every month in the Grand Mesa Cancer Infusion & Education Center, just north of Delta County Memorial Hospital. The brown bag lunch begins at noon. The next meeting is Jan. 29. Women with any type of cancer are invited to join this support group of women supporting women. For more information or a ride, call Dorthy Hunt, 872-3309, by Thursday evening.

Peggy and Harry Gilbert Peggy became involved with the brand new American Paint Horse Association in 1963 and promoted the breed locally and by holding national offices for the next 40 years. She was also a horse 4-H leader and riding instructor for over 20 years. Harry took over Delta Plumbing when his father-in-law passed away unexpectedly in 1963 and continued running a successful commercial mechanical contracting business for the next 30 years. Harry and Peggy sold their ranch and indoor riding arena in 2001 and spent the next three years exploring the U.S. in their RV and making

two trips to England, Scotland and Ireland. When they settled down again, they built an off-the-grid cabin on the Uncompaghre Plateau above Unaweep Canyon and spend the majority of their time there from April through Thanksgiving. On weekends during that time and during the winter months, the Gilberts reside in their small townhouse in Grand Junction. They are both active in their church and choir. Harry has been a substitute high school math teacher for the past seven years. In good health, they continue to enjoy the blessings of friends and family.

MOPS meets Jan. 21 Delta MOPS (Mothers of Preschoolers) meets Thursday, Jan. 21, at 9 a.m. All moms of children ages 0-6 are invited to come enjoy brunch, coffee, child care and fellowship. This month’s theme is “Fiery Flames - Ways to Spice Up Your Marriage.” The meeting will be held

at the Delta First Baptist Church, 1250 Pioneer Road. Please call Amanda Perez at 778-5272 for more information.

PEOPLE IN THE NEWS Bryanna Music of Delta was named to the Dean’s Honor Roll at Ottawa University for the fall 2015 semester. Dean’s Honor Roll honorees must be fulltime degree-seeking students who have earned a minimum of 12 semester hours during the preceding semester and earned a semester grade-point average of at least 3.5 on a 4.0 scale. Founded in 1865, Ottawa University is a comprehensive, not-forprofit educational institution serving over 4,000 students through its residential campus in Ottawa, Kan.

June Mills

Birthday celebration marks 90th Friends and family members are invited to a 90th birthday party for June Mills Saturday, Jan. 23, from 2 to 4 p.m. The celebration will be held at Crossroads Assisted Living, Delta. No gifts please, but cards will be appreciated.

SCHOOL

Delta County Independent

Wednesday, January 20, 2016

Delta Middle honor roll The following students were named to honor roll at Delta Middle School for the first semester of the 2015-16 school year:

Photo submitted

Up to the challenge

Over Christmas break, Lincoln Elementary School principal Jennifer Magner challenged students to read at least 150 minutes over the course of the two weeks. “The results were amazing!” Magner reported. “We had 135 students participate, reading a total of 43,000 minutes or 716 hours.” Pictured are the classroom winners as well as the schoolwide top four readers. All of the winners received books as prizes and the top four readers will be recognized at the Jan. 21 school board meeting, which will be held at Lincoln Elementary. Pictured are (ﬁrst row) Keagyn Sharkey, Claire Bailey, Gemma Leib, Brylee Westwood, Izzy Long; (second row) Connor Long, Landen Ficklen, Cutter Ferganchick, Jacob Leib, Elanna Valdez, Brandon Lizaldi; (third row) Galatea Markert, Bethany Farmer, Katerina Hanning, Trinity Cross, Chelsea Cross; (fourth row) Anastascia Garcia (ﬁrst with 1,932 minutes), Joachim Jones (second with 1,589 minutes), Ryleigh Salazar (third with 1,500 minutes) and Jordan Johnson (fourth with 1,083 minutes). Not pictured: Brian Harless. “We are so proud of our outstanding students who consistently push themselves to be better readers,” Magner said.

Sixth Grade Straight A’s Jillian Carlson Cheyanne Germann Benjamin McCash Melana McCormick Raelee McCurdy Kurtis Nethington Haley Sanders Teja Smith Emma Wise Mia Yost 3.33 or Better Laisha Aleman Abigail Barber Jonathan Baty Isabelle Burruss Hayley Burwell Austin Chamblin Vianney Corral Escarcega Charlie Costopoulos Jacob Edwards Kelsey Esplin Alexandra Gaona Janine Garcia Sydney Gerle Hunter Goff Kara Herren Nicolas Hill Timothy Horn

Anysia Hovel Oaklee Hughes Spencer Hughes Baili Hulet Ethan Kappel Nicole Koch Randy Lawrence Robert Lawrence Kayla Miller Jose Nava Marin Kaelynn Porter Jose Renteria Dor Rin Emma Roberts Julian Serrano Mackenzie Sharpe Joshua Stagner Heli Tolka Seventh Grade Straight A’s Aubree Andre Ethan Atchley Kaitlyn Branson Nolan Bynum Jezreel Couch James Goff Stella McKay Arly Morales Marcy Schaal Loren Weaver 3.33 or Better

Alyssa Bayles Madisen Branham Nicholas Bryant Elaine Cannon Yadira Cansigno Rivera Caitlyn Carlquist Cole Carmichael Bradyn Carver Cynthia Castro Diego Chavez Payje Clark Emma Corbasson Allison Davis Jessica Dexter Rosalea Gallegos AnnaMaria Gilliam Emilio Gonzalez Grace Hall Austyn Hannegrefs Mason HatterHollowwa Alaiha Hoffbauer Alexa Huff Tayler Huntley Ezra Kathrein Zachary Kuta Jada Lannon Cameron Lopez Jack Loveland Anthony Miller

Noah Nortnik Kiril Ortega Keely Porter Travis Rankin Taylor Reilly Carisa Rhiness Rhetta Rice Bernice Rosales Melissa Rubio Chloe Sanchez Saw Say Logan Schuster Jason Timbreza Lillian Tindall Ashley Velasquez Doyle Young Eighth Grade Straight A’s Sarah Bules Jacob Hanning Mairany Jaracuaro Madyson Lawrence Tenayah Pfifer Stephanie Ponce Olivia Santonastaso Kaitlyn Sharpe Ashley Trevino Bethany Weaver 3.33 or Better Miriam Aleman Victoria Bramer

Foundation announces scholarship opportunities

Guadalupe Caballero Samantha Cassel Kelsey Cloward Benjamin Cooper Amanda Cotten Tha Deh Keylee Esplin Grant Freed Sara Geddes Madison Gieck Andrew Harris Audrey Herren Odin Higgs Hunter Hughes Katharine King Tee Kue Gauge Lockhart Dustin Long Gadiel Mendoza-Leon Tyler Neil Jaren Reece Kyleiah Rundle Jesus Saldivar Natalie Schamp Kendyll Siettmann Karen SpringerGrover Chaycelynn Urquhart Jason Violett Kylee Wilbur Nathan Workman

Like us. DELTA COUNTY

INDEPENDENT

The Western Colora- million in total endowed do Community Founda- fund assets. www.deltacountyindependent.com tion (WCCF) is accepting applications for a wide variety of scholarships available to students residing in Delta County. Sixteen different scholarship funds managed by WCCF are �� available specifically to �� Delta County students through one online appli�� cation at www.wc-cf.org. �� Scholarships range in �� award dollars and many �� are renewable for up to �� four years. Criteria var�� ies from financial need �� to GPA scores to chosen field of study and cov�� ers both four-year degree �� programs and vocational �� institutions. Deadline for �� applying is March 15. For more information contact Cecile Aday at 970-2433767. In 2015, WCCF award�� ed over $38,000 in schol�� arships to help 48 students from Delta County attend college and pursue their dreams. The Western Colorado Community Foundation serves seven counties in western Colorado, managing charitable funds for community good. The Community Foundation and its regional affiliates manage nearly $49

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Photo submitted

Virtuous Kids

The week of Jan. 11, Lincoln Elementary and the Kiwanis Club of Delta recognized the Virtuous Kids pictured above: (front row, left to right) Isabella Flint (kindness), Jaleena Davis (on task), Natalia Justus (respect), Hope Redden (responsibility), Julian Rapozo (diligence), Kyler Kendall (responsibility); (back row) Mattie Halvorson (respect), Anthony Armendariz (on task), Kimberly Ponce (caring), Kenny Gleason (diligence/discipline).

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PEOPLE IN THE NEWS Photos submitted

Terriﬁc Kids

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 row) Riley Houghton, Aaron Martinez, Shanne Huff, Oscar Medina, Ruben Duran; (back row) Paiyten Henderson, Keeton Collins, Ben Varela and Landen Taylor. Below are second and third graders Kaide Foote, Jordyn Huff, Josue Morales, Ashley Hernandez and Jayden Turner.

Garnet Mesa honor roll The following students were named to honor roll at Garnet Mesa Elementary School for the second quarter of the 2015-16 school year: Third Grade Straight A’s Yuraly Arias Sydnie Atchley Mya Barrientos Joseph Black Alexcia Bloom Sadie Connally Corry Dunlap Kyndahl Duran Lillian Eskam Merissa Floyd Helen GonzalezFranco Ashley Hernandez Anika Hovel Brianna Huff Tyson Hughes Ethan Mack Ellie Magner Tommy MontoyaOrnelas Ty Reed Willon Rice Ashton Robinson Alexia Sanchez Jonathan Santonastaso Joseph Siennicki Lillian Sinkay Juliana Stagner Diego Vicencio Tyler Yost Rachel Young A/B Honor Roll Jessica Barbich Ashton Burns Janeth Corral Waylon Cross Jr.

Yesenia Dominguez Kaidence Foote Dylan Fry Xavier Gonzalez Lazalea Harris Ryan Hendricks Jordyn Huff Illeana Leon Trinity McCurdy Aniston McFarland Izabella McLendon Kali Ripper Daniel Romero Alyssa Rule D’Angelo Saenz Fabian Sepulveda Robert Smith Landon Spaedt Haley StahlkeStamper Aaron Tolka Addison Travis Brysin Woodson Fourth Grade Straight A’s Brayden Ahlberg Regann Alsdorf Emily Anderson Lauren Angelo Sanaa Ashurst Aylin Bayles Saw Blessing Nathan Brewer Rylan Bynum Enrique Carrillo Sarah Clark Shayla Curtis Lynessia Duran

Katelyn Edwards Morgan Farmer Madysen Ferrell Hania Garcia Paige GoodholmZblewski Xander Graff Pete Herren Roxsy Huerta Kylie Huff Tucker Johnson Tyler King Tristian Lackey Ripp Lockhart Xavier Martinez Tatem Miller Mialisoa Randria Connor Reed Jovanny Romero Hernandez Allyson Rusling Andric Sanchez Ava Shaball Zoey Shean Rosita Varela Baylee Wilson A/B Honor Roll Ismael Acosta Maria Adame Randee Ahlberg Christopher Bascue Mauricio Blanco Esai Carrillo John Dexter Jesse Dicamillo Madalyn Haskins Linda Hayner Jae Huff

James Hufman Dakota Jessee Brett Lahoe David Lucero Lesly Martinez Camilo Munoz Jeshua Ochoa Lance Porter Zackery Pruett Nicholas Serve Rye Truitt Jadyn Urich Arturo Verdeja-Reyes Caleb Weams Kassidy Wear Joshua Wyatt Fifth Grade Straight A’s Ezria Abeyta Phoenix CaraveauDuran Kalliope Carmichael Emigdio Corral Shaun Foley Miriya Garcia Evelyn Gutierrez Nylene Gutierrez Ayralin Hoffbauer Kailie Hofschulte Areiel Jaques Noah Kevan Lendol Lawrence Caitlyn Merriman Brooklynn Mininger Clark Alexis Rundle Joseph Santonastaso Luke Stagner

Sarah Teel Camaron Williams Konner Workman A/B Honor Roll Alexi Armendariz Shental Bloom Julian Escarcega Samuel Falck Albaro Felix Gage Garcia Anastasia Gomez Moses Hager Brianna Hall Jacob Hancock Madyson Hannegrefs LeeLand Hernandez Cassidy Hunter Sequoia Jones Hayley Lancaster Hazel Lancaster Johnathan Lightner Janelle Marushack Nikolaos Matthews Cady Agustin MontoyaOrnelas Ta Moo Juan Ortiz McKenzie Proctor Mariah Rhinehart Lillyanne Ripper Angel Romero Hurtado Job Rosales Braeden Sprout Katherin Suarez Ramirez Levity Wilkinson

MeLissa E. Wientjes of Delta, a senior majoring in agricultural sciences, was named to the scholastic honor roll at Oregon State University. Wientjes earned a Bplus (3.5) or better to make the listing. A total of 1,009 students earned straight A’s (4.0). Another 3,982 earned a B-plus (3.5) or better. To be on the honor roll, students must carry at least 12 graded hours of course work.

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A6 Wednesday, January 20, 2016

OBITUARIES

11 great-grandchildren, Tanner, Parker, Ireland, Colby, Lennise, Gwen, River, Thomas, Logan, Trevor and London. Taylor Funeral Service and Crematory handled the arrangements. View the Internet obituary and sign the online guest registry at taylor funeralservice.com.

Jimmie McClure

Delta resident Jimmie R. McClure died Jan. 11, 2016, at Delta County Memorial Hospital. He was 89. At his request, no services will be held at this time. Mr. McClure was born in Vernon, Texas, Nov. 26, 1926, to Hugh and Maude (Cleveland) McClure. He was raised in the West Texas oil fields. He joined the Navy when he was 17 and served in the Pacific Theater during World War II. He was a shipfitter on a tanker and was involved in eight invasions. After serving in the military for three years, he lived in San Diego, Calif., where he married and had two children. He worked as a welder at Solar International Harvester where he welded machinery that went to the moon. He retired after 30 years, in 1975. He married Marlene (Silva) McClure in 1974 in San Diego. They had three children. The McClures eventually moved to northern California where Mr. McClure raised horses. In 1987, they bought a ranch in Delta and he continued to raise horses there. Mr. McClure enjoyed dancing, fishing, fourwheeling and spending time with friends and family. He belonged to AF & AM #62 Masonic Lodge in Delta. He is survived by his wife, Marlene McClure; five children, Tom (Marcie) McClure, Barb (Mel) Sargent, Joyce (Jim) Cooke, Bret (Heidi) Ball and Brian (Sheila) Ball; a brother, Winn McClure; a sister, Judy Cheatam; 12 grandchildren, Brandon, Travis, Tyler, Karrie, Clinton, Jamie, Stacy, Becky, Melanie, Eric, Jeremy and Dannon; and

Memorial contributions may be sent to Mountain View Bible Church, P.O. Box 74, Lazear, CO 81420, or to HopeWest, P.O. Box 24, Delta, CO 81416. Taylor Funeral Service and Crematory is handling the arrangements. View the Internet obituary and sign the online guest registry at taylor funeralservice.com.

Harold Webb

Judy Rarick

Cedaredge resident Judy Diane Rarick died at her home Sunday, Jan. 10, 2016. She was 62. Memorial services will be held at a later date. Mrs. Rarick was born in Springfield, Mo., April 14, 1953, to Eugene and JoAnna (Denney) Buchanan. She spent her childhood in Missouri and graduated in Ava, Mo. She lived in Cedaredge 14 years. On Nov. 28, 1998, she married Rick Rarick in Delta. Mrs. Rarick enjoyed animals, especially parrots and dogs, staying connected with friends through Facebook, and spending time with family. She is survived by her mother, JoAnna (Kelly) Huff of Missouri; her husband, Rick Rarick; her son, Michael (Somer) Stout of Missouri; her daughter, Rayna Stout of Cedaredge; her brothers, Jerry (Rhonda) Buchanan and David (Michele) Stout; and a sister, Linda (Bill) Kelley, all of Missouri. She was preceded in death by her father and two infant daughters. Memorial contributions may be made to the Cedaredge animal shelter. Taylor Funeral Service and Crematory handled the arrangements. View the Internet obituary and sign the online guest registry at taylor funeralservice.com.

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Lifetime Delta County resident Harold Webb died at his home in Delta Wednesday, Jan. 13, 2016. He was 92. Public visitation and viewing will be from 57 p.m. Wednesday, Jan. 20, and funeral services will be held at 10 a.m., Thursday, Jan. 21, both at Taylor Funeral Service Chapel in Delta. Harold Clark Webb was born in Eckert April 22, 1923, to Wilbur and Bessie (Johnson) Webb. He spent his childhood and attended school in Paonia and Delta. He enlisted in the U.S. Army and served in both the European and the Pacific theaters during World War II. On Oct. 11, 1972, he married Sondra Czapanskiy in Delta. Mr. Webb was the postmaster of the Delta Post Office for 36 years. He was a former member of Rotary Club, worked with young people through AWANA for 20-plus years and was a water safety instructor and member of Grand Mesa Rescue Team. He was a member of the North Fork Snowmobile Club and enjoyed his dog, Princess, playing pinochle and building, teaching and flying radio-controlled airplanes. Mr. Webb is survived by his wife, Sondra Webb of Delta; his daughters, Janine (Michael) Sitz and Lynda Webb, all of Grand Junction; his sons, Bill (Lynette) Holt of Pueblo, Brad (Kelly) Holt and Don (Dee) Holt, all of Paonia; his brothers, Rufus (Lois) Webb of Delta, Robert (Judy) Webb, Norman (Marisa) Webb, all of Phoenix, Ariz., and Roland (Ann) Webb of Florence, Ala.; his sisters, Elnora Turner of Phoenix, Ariz., and Edith Kinder of Grand Junction; 11 grandchildren; and five greatgrandchildren. He was preceded in death by his first wife, Dorothy (Easter) Webb; a daughter, Karen Williams; and two brothers, Charles Hunt and Sanford Webb.

Jim Norris

James “Jim” A. Norris died at his home in Cory Jan. 11, 2016. He was 73. He was born in Paonia Dec. 18, 1942, to Ed and Dorothy Norris. He and his brother John were raised on a cattle ranch on Kebler Pass. He graduated from Paonia High School in 1960. Mr. Norris was a member of the Rod and Gun Club, was a benefactor member of the NRA, a 4H leader, a Delta County Fair Board member, a North Fork Water Association District consultant and the Paonia Mosquito District president. He enjoyed being a father and grandfather, ranching, fishing, operating heavy equipment and his dog, Little Bit. Mr. Norris is survived by his wife of 54 years, Carolyn; three daughters, Pam, Kim and Diane; grandchildren, Katrisha, Felisha, Victoria, Michael and Austyn; four stepgrandchildren; and 13 great-grandchildren. No funeral service is planned. A “coffee with Jim” will be held Monday, Feb. 1, from 8-10 a.m., at The Diner in Paonia. Memorial contributions may be sent to HopeWest, P.O. Box 24, Delta, CO 81416. Taylor Funeral Service and Crematory handled the arrangements. View the Internet obituary and sign the online guest registry at taylor funeralservice.com.

Darrell Geyer

Longtime Surface Creek area resident Darrell Jess Geyer died Saturday, Jan. 16, 2016, at Delta County Memorial

Delta County Independent

Hospital. He was 80. No services will be held at this time. Mr. Geyer was born in Fort Morgan June 18, 1935, to Harry and Ila (Mendenhall) Geyer. He spent his childhood in the Fort Morgan and Brush areas. He married Elizabeth “Betty” Houck on June 18, 1969, in Montrose. They lived in Cedaredge before moving to Eckert where they lived for 25 years. Mr. Geyer was a former member of Hotchkiss Elks Lodge #1807 and the Odd Fellows Lodge. He enjoyed being a grandfather and great-grandfather, rodeoing and hunting. He is survived by his wife, Betty Geyer; a son, Darren (Corrie) Geyer; a daughter, Pam (Craig) Mertes, all of Eckert; three grandsons, Justin (Amber) Gordon, Trey Geyer and Tel Geyer; and two great-grandchildren, Della and Augustus Gordon. He was preceded in death by a son, Mathew Geyer; and a grandson, Travis Gordon. Taylor Funeral Service and Crematory handled the arrangements. View the Internet obituary and sign the online guest registry at taylor funeralservice.com.

Uetiva Pitt

Uetiva Zoe Pitt of Fort Morgan died Sunday, Jan. 17, 2016, at Valley View Villa Care Center in Fort Morgan. She was 81. She was born in Hutchinson, Kan., Aug. 17, 1934, to Walter and Jessie Ratzloff. She married William Pitt on Nov. 25, 1972, in Denver. They lived in LaSalle and Platteville until 1988 when they moved to the Hotchkiss and Paonia area where they began their own business. She retired in 2006 and moved to Weldona in 2007. Mrs. Pitt attended First Baptist Church in Fort Morgan. She enjoyed spending time with her family, fishing, the outdoors, cooking, canning,

sewing, Rockies baseball, taking care of people and tending her flower and vegetable gardens. She is survived by a son, Russel Nichols; a daughter, Sheryl (Dale) Johnston, all of Fort Collins; two stepdaughters, Lori (Casey) Kinnison and Debra (Scott) Welsch, both of Fort Morgan; a sister, Helen Jones of Austin, Texas; nine grandchildren; 11 greatgrandchildren; and one great-great-grandchild. She was preceded in death by her husband, William, in 2013; her brothers, Virgil, Lester and Ronald Ratzloff; and her sisters, Maxine, Joyce and Carolyn. Visitation will be Thursday, Jan. 21, from 6:30-8:30 p.m. at Heer Mortuary, 225 E. Platte Avenue, Fort Morgan. Funeral services will be held at 2 p.m., Friday, Jan. 22, at First Baptist Church in Fort Morgan. Interment will follow in Memory Gardens. Memorial contributions may be made to Alzheimer’s Foundation of America, 322 Eighth Ave., 7th Floor, New York, NY 10001. Heer Mortuary in Fort Morgan is handling the arrangements.

Alberta Lavy

Delta resident Alberta Lavy died Monday, Jan. 11, 2016, at Willow Tree Care Center. She was 100. Services were held Jan. 16 at St. Philip Catholic Church with Deacon Price Hatcher officiating. Interment followed at Cedaredge Cemetery. Alberta Wanick was born in Illinois March 10, 1915, to Julius and Lola (Cornelius) Wanick. She is survived by her son, William McCarty of New Mexico; two daughters, Mary Huston of Grand Junction and Margie Porter of Collbran; and 105 grandchildren, great-grandchildren and great-great-grandchildren. She was preceded in death by a son, James McCarthy; and two daughters, Carol Andrews and Virginia Gore. Memorial contributions may be made to Children’s Hospital, 13123 E. 16th Ave., Aurora, CO 80045. Taylor Funeral Service and Crematory handled the arrangements. View the Internet obituary and sign the online guest registry at taylor funeralservice.com.

LOCAL NEWS

Prison sentences ��

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FROM PAGE A1 In addressing an appropriate sentence, Hotsenpiller referred to intent and the degree of harm, first as it related to Valdez, then Keener. Valdez, he said, consciously disregarded the risk of the plan, even after abandoning it once after a car came along. With the rope once again stretched across the highway, the sound of an approaching motorcycle could be heard. According to the grand jury indictment, Valdez saw Rawson coming. He leaned out the window and began waving his arms, trying to get Rawson to stop. After Rawson was lifted up off his motorcycle and his body landed on the highway, Valdez told Fidel Olivas to help him unhook everything and not to say anything to anyone. Hotsenpiller urged the judge to consider the extent, scope and duration of Valdez’s reckless conduct; the involvement of the juvenile, who was exposed to horrific trauma; failure to render aid or provide humane treatment; the destruction and hiding of evidence; and the permanent and dev-

astating repercussions for multiple victims. Defense attorney Michael Vaughn contended Valdez cooperated with authorities from the beginning. As mitigating factors, he said Valdez recognizes the consequences of his actions, has little in the way of a criminal history, and is unlikely to find himself in a similar situation. “Mr. Valdez realizes he will spend time in the Department of Corrections, but he does not deserve the maximum punishment.” “Nothing I can say will make things better for the Rawson family,” Valdez said when given an opportunity to address the family. “I think about Mr. Rawson constantly, as soon as I wake up every day, and go to bed at night. I do pray you and Mr. Rawson find peace.” For the benefit of the family and the defendants, Judge Herron voiced his thoughts as he weighed the factors in determining Valdez’s sentence. Most troubling, he said, was the fact that the first attempt to pull the elk off the hill was abandoned when a car came by. That should

have been fair warning they were engaging in a dangerous activity, the judge said. Also “galling” was that Valdez chose to lie about the accident. “It took a 16-year-old to tell the truth and be honest when you wouldn’t be,” he told Valdez. Having read the legal description of “reckless,” he said Valdez’s actions fit “absolutely perfectly.” He sentenced Valdez to six years in prison, with a mandatory threeyear term of parole, plus restitution of $3,135 and a $500 fine for the hunting license violation. Because Valdez is undergoing physical therapy for a work-related injury, Vaughn asked the judge to delay the start of Valdez’s sentence until May 1. He declined, and Valdez was immediately taken into custody. He will receive four days’ credit for presentence confinement. In Keener’s case, public defender Valerie Cole successfully made the case that Keener was on the brush-covered hillside with the elk and could not see what was taking place on the roadway. “It’s important for the court to understand the different roles of the

two men,” Cole said. She suggested the judge consider a suspended DOC sentence that would allow Keener to perform some type of public service in memory of Trever, at the direction of his family. Keener also addressed the family, issuing a tearful “I’m sorry.” Judge Herron took the opportunity to ask Keener several questions, and those answers underscored the defendants’ lack of honesty when questioned by law enforcement. In the end, Judge Herron said he was convinced Keener’s view was screened by the thick oak brush, he was not aware that Valdez’s plan involved stretching a rope across the highway, or that the operation was suspended once due to a passing vehicle. The judge sentenced Keener to two years in prison, the midpoint of the presumptive sentencing range. “I am not imposing the maximum in part because you told the truth today,” he told Keener. Keener received credit for one day of presentence confinement and was immediately taken into custody.

Delta County Independent

ACTIVITIES

Wednesday, January 20, 2016

�� CMU alum speaks about ��

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his experience in Benghazi Have you heard about the new movie, “13 Hours: The Secret Soldiers of Benghazi”? It’s the story of 1995 CMU alumnus Kris “Tanto” Paronto, who was one of six American security operatives who fought to defend the American diplomatic compound in Benghazi, Libya, after a terrorist attack on Sept.

Magic Circle Players stage ‘The Last Lifeboat’ More than a century has passed since the disastrous sinking of the supposedly “unsinkable” RMS Titanic, the flagship of the White Star Line, widely touted as the epitome of maritime elegance and superior engineering. Yet the world’s fascination with Titanic’s fate lives on. Scores of books, movies, television specials and submersible dives to her wreckage keep alive the unfading legend of hubris, heroism, cowardice and tragedy that surrounds the unfathomable sinking of Titanic on her maiden voyage. Award-winning playwright Luke Yankee’s intense drama “The Last Lifeboat” presents a human side of Titanic’s creation and the aftermath of her destruction. The son of a successful ship builder, J. Bruce Ismay built Titanic and was aboard her when the unthinkable occurred. Despite his frantic efforts to save as many doomed passengers as he could, at the last moment, he found himself in the last lifeboat to depart the sinking ship. Whether right or wrong, that decision branded him as a coward and a scapegoat forever. Was Ismay a coward, a hero, or simply another victim of a horrible twist of fate? Magic Circle Theatre’s production of “The Last Lifeboat”, directed by Ginny Spaven, brings this riveting question to the Montrose stage in January. Using a simple set designed by Mitch Hamilton and a small cast of actors who “double” in various roles,

Senior Connection will meet Feb. 4 Have you ever wanted to research your family history? At the Thursday, Feb. 4, Senior Connection, Don Pyle will demonstrate how to research family history using online resources. If the computer is not your thing, learn techniques for protecting precious family pictures and documents. Refreshments will be offered. All senior men and women are welcome. Senior Connection meets at the Delta United Methodist Church fellowship hall, 477 Meeker Street, from 1:30 to 3:30 p.m.

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the fusion of multimedia images, intense sound effects and stark lighting bring a gripping immediacy to the play. “The Last Lifeboat” will be performed Friday and Saturday, Jan. 22-23 and 29-30 at 7:30 p.m. A Sunday matinee is scheduled at 2 p.m. Jan. 24. Tickets are available online at magiccircle players.com, by telephone at 970-249-7838, or in person at the box office 2 to 5 p.m., Tuesdays, Wednesdays and Thursdays.

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Inside Account of What Really Happened in Benghazi,” by New York Times bestselling author Mitchell Zuckoff in collaboration with the six security operatives. Tickets are $15 and may be purchased online at supportingcmu.org or by calling 248-1525. Come on out and learn more about Paronto’s experience while supporting Colorado Mesa’s alumni association.

Family fun night set for Jan. 23 The Delta Lions Club will host a community fun night at CB’s Tavern Saturday, Jan. 23. The fun begins at 6:30 p.m. Young, middle age, older adults are invited to meet the members of the Delta Lions Club and enjoy an evening of games, snacks and conversation.

Bluegrass on tap for Pea Green series It’s time for the January session of the famous Pea Green Saturday Night concert series, and all of you are invited. The Delta County Gentlemen and The Buzzard Swamp String Band will perform their favorite old-time and bluegrass tunes and songs in an old grange hall concert setting for a cost of only a sawbuck ($10) at the door. The concert will be held at

the Pea Green Community Center on Saturday, Jan. 23, from 7-9 p.m. The hall is located at the intersection of Highway 348 and Banner Road, southwest of Delta. Lots of people bring a snack to share and you can do likewise if you want to. Doors open at 6 p.m. and seating is limited. For more information call Len Willey at 8748879.

Seventh Judicial District offers free Family Law Day Colorado’s Seventh Judicial District (Delta, Gunnison, Hinsdale, Montrose, Ouray and San Miguel counties) and Seventh Judicial District Access to Justice Committee will hold its second Family Law Day at the Montrose County Combined Courts (1200 N. Grand Avenue) on Feb. 5 for people representing themselves in family law court proceedings. The event will offer services including legal advice, mediation and parenting education free

of charge to self-represented parties involved in domestic relations cases. Participants who wish to attend parenting classes, obtain legal advice or seek mediation service must register before Jan. 29 by calling Ashley Burgemeister at 970-6428330. A parenting class will be provided from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. From 10:30 a.m. to 5:30 p.m., participants may obtain services including legal advice from attorneys, mediation to help with parent-

ing plans and separation agreements, and assistance completing and reviewing court forms. A Spanish interpreter will be available. Community agencies including pro bono organizations and Child Support Services will have representatives at the event to provide information about out-of-court services related to domestic relations cases.

“The hardest part is getting started,” says instructor Bob Aubery. It is never easy to budget and pay your bills, but the Delta Library is hosting a class designed to help families do just that. Starting Saturday, Jan. 23, from 10:30 to 11:45 a.m. and continuing through March 23, these classes will help community members interested in reducing their debt and learning budget making. Bob Aubery began offering these classes free to the community many years ago, after he was so heavily in debt it took a full paycheck to pay the minimum on his credit cards. Many of his friends and neighbors were struggling also, so he began to teach what he had learned. “The program lasts 10 weeks, as that is how long it takes to form a habit,” Aubery said. “Weekend programs don’t work because we need to create habits and have someone to help us get through it.” The library has com-

puter, reading and other areas for teens and children ages 6 and older. Learn how to pay your bills and have money left over each month. More information is available by calling Aubery at 970765-5035.

Bill Heddles Recreation Center is taking registrations for the 2016 Racquetball Rumble. This is a singles/doubles racquetball tournament held Feb. 18-21. The fee is $35 for the first division, $15 for the second division, and includes a tournament shirt, lunch, refreshments and a special drawing. The entry deadline is Feb. 5 at 5 p.m. For more information, call Bill Heddles Recreation Center, 874-0923.

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11, 2012. Paronto will be at CMU to talk about his experiences in the “Battle of Benghazi” on Wednesday, Jan. 27, at 7 p.m. in the Meyer Ballroom in the University Center. Paronto was a criminal justice major when he was at CMU. The movie is based on the book, “13 Hours: The

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It’s time for February cribbage tournament It’s time for the City of Delta/Lee Martinson annual February cribbage tournament. The event is scheduled Sunday, Feb. 21, from 1 to 5:30 p.m. at Bill Heddles Recreation Center. All players must play singles, but doubles is an option. Bring your own boards if you have them. Please register in advance or the day of the event no later than 12:30 p.m. All ages are welcome. The fee is $10 per person and $5 per person for doubles. Register at Bill Heddles Recreation Center, 874-0923.

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Dance to be held at Montrose Pavilion The Montrose Pavilion Dance Club is hosting a dance at the Montrose Pavilion, 1800 Pavilion Drive, on Saturday, Jan. 23, from 7:30 to 11 p.m. Music will be provided by Thin Air. Admission is $5 per person. Bring refreshments to share if you wish. For information, call 252-7172.

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LOCAL NEWS

Delta County Independent

Mark your valentines with love Love once again is in the mail and bound for Loveland and Colorado! Loveland, CO 80538 has the biggest valentine remailing program of any community in the world, in which people request the postmark of a special love-themed named post office and community. (Others include Valentine, NE 69201; Romance, AR 72136; Loving, NM 88256; Romeo, MI 48065 and Juliette, GA 31046.) Besides the popular LOVELAND valentine pictorial postmark, each envelope and postcard is also stamped with a special Loveland souvenir cachet or art design and love verse. The community and chamber of commerce host an annual contest to select the special cachet and love verse. To have valentines remailed with the Loveland postmark, enclose your pre-stamped, preaddressed envelopes (envelopes should each have 49-cent postage;

Crossroads Memory Care opens Crossroads Senior Living in Delta is pleased to announce that Crossroads Memory Care opened Monday, Jan. 18. Crossroads Memory Care is a secured assisted living that specializes in dementia care. For more information, call Kylynn Wilson at 874-1421.

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postcards should have 35-cent postage). Add extra postage for heavier/ odd-shaped and square valentines. Mail in a large stamped envelope or package with postage to: Postmaster Attention Valentines 446 E. 29th St. Loveland, CO 80538

You can save the cost of the extra stamps and envelopes, however. Judy Anderson, a former resident of Loveland, has arranged drop boxes in businesses around Delta County to make it easy to send a valentine with the Loveland postmark. Simply drop off your card, fully addressed with the

appropriate postage, and it will be delivered to Loveland for a special cachet on the envelope. Valentines will be picked up at the following locations: Hays Drug in Paonia, Feb. 3; City Market in Delta and Hotchkiss, Feb. 6; and Cedaredge FoodTown, Feb. 6.

‘Voices of Rural Colorado’ join forces for legislative trip The 2016 Voices of Rural Colorado Denver legislative trip hosted by Club 20, Action 22, and Progressive 15 takes place Thursday and Friday, Jan. 21-22. While these groups work together frequently, the event marks the first time that the three advocacy organizations have joined to host an event together. This opportunity will allow the three organizations’ members, representing 59 of Colorado’s 64 counties, the chance to engage in productive dialogue with legislators, cabinet members and department heads regarding issues of concern to rural Colorado and to learn about potential legislation that may impact citizens and communities in our regions. “This event serves as a great kickoff to an exciting year, and we couldn’t be happier to be joining with Action 22 and Progressive 15. As one voice for rural Colorado we think that we will be able to show that there IS unity in our state. When 59 of Colorado’s 64 counties ban together it’s going to be hard for state leadership not to listen,” says Christian Reece, Club 20

executive director. Bob Stovall, Action 22 interim director adds, “Action 22 sees this joint event as a great opportunity to let legislators hear from the combined voices of rural Colorado, where we have so many issues in common.” Progressive 15 executive director, Cathy Shull, agrees, saying, “Our organizations have learned that whether you are on the Front Range or the West Slope, many issues we face are the same for all rural Colorado. Together our organizations can strengthen rural interests at the

state and federal level.” Agenda highlights include panel discussions focused on the topics of transportation, education and health care; a federal update from the offices of Senator Michael Bennet and Senator Cory Gardner; an update from Gov. Hickenlooper’s office regarding plans for the 2016 session and Colorado’s fiscal future; what to expect in the 2016 session from Colorado legislators and state officials; and a legislative reception at the the governor’s mansion. For more information, call Club 20 at 242-3264.

Health insurance assistance available Volunteers of America is hosting a free walk-in enrollment event in Delta for Connect for Health Colorado. The event will be held in Delta Friday, Jan. 22, from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. at 550 Palmer Street, #103. It is open to the public and no appointment is necessary. Individuals can apply for financial assistance and enroll in

health insurance for 2016. Bilingual assistance will also be available. The deadline to purchase health insurance for 2016 is Jan. 31. For more information call 970-252-0660. Health coverage guides are available to answer questions and provide assistance to those who are looking to enroll for 2016.

Spotlight on Delta Library BY LEAH MORRIS Delta County Libraries

Delta County Libraries consists of five libraries, each of which strives to meet the needs of a particular area in Delta County. The district collectively maintains a collection, budget, human resources, marketing and much more for all the libraries; however, because the patrons of one library may have different needs from those in another town, staff members at each location

constantly work to reach out to their users. This is true even in libraries with new employees who are still getting to know library patrons. At the Delta Library, most of the staff was hired within the past year, but they have quickly jumped in with new ideas, great community connections, helpful attitudes and a strong desire to provide the public with a satisfying library experience. Lead staff member Adriana Chavira, who has been a familiar face at the Delta Library for years now, is pleased with the way new employees have focused on making the public feel welcome. “Our new staff is doing so much to create positive interactions with patrons so people can get to know them and feel at ease. It seems like there has been a lot of turnover in Delta in general, leading people to be concerned about the future of our community. In response, the Delta Library staff has really tried to reassure our patrons that the library will continue to be the helpful and welcoming place they have come to expect.” Steps taken by the new staff, Mary, Sunshine, Shayna and Kami, include bringing back successful programs, making themselves available to answer patron questions, and initiating creative plans that are drawing in new and returning users. The Delta Library calendar overflows with opportunities for story times, book signings, craft activities, health clinics, movies, language classes, lectures and more. Inside the library, the ceiling over the circulation desk is overflowing with snowflakes displaying book suggestions, and the kids’ room echoes with children on scavenger hunts. Signs advertise events led by community members, like “Rhythm Band Class,” a music series for elementary-age students, “Living Within Our Means,” a returning series for adults on

finance and budgeting, and “The Plight of the Honey Bees,” a lecture given by a local entomologist. Delta Library staff checked out more than 92,000 items to patrons in 2015, including books, DVDs, children’s materials and electronics like iPads. This is in addition to answering reference questions, providing computer help, administering programs and all the other day-to-day tasks of running a library. New staff members have had to learn their jobs quickly to keep up with the demands of each busy day, and veteran staff members like Chavira have faced the challenge of training everyone while keeping things moving forward. “I am so pleased with the commitment level of Adriana and all of our new staff in Delta,” says interim district director Lea Hart. “All of our libraries are doing incredible things and we feel it is important to highlight each location. Delta County Libraries provides irreplaceable services to our community and we will do whatever it takes to be open and ready to help our patrons throughout the county.”

Photo submitted

Mary Saunders, dressed as a train conductor, talks to a young Delta Library patron during a movie program in December.

NORTH FORK January 20, 2016

TIMES

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www.deltacountyindependent.com

Cohousing project clears planning review BY TAMIE MECK Staff Writer

Paonia resident Paul Millermon often wondered what would become of a vacant lot located a block from his home. Millermon, who served more than 24 years on the town planning commission, spoke at last week’s public hearing for the proposed Silver Leaf Cohousing Development proposed at Third Street and Clark Avenue. Following the hearing, the planning commission gave conditional approval of the project, the first the commission has reviewed in about two years and the first of its kind in Delta County. The Thursday afternoon hearing attracted about 25 members of the public. In the 1980s, said Millermon, “We had a big fight over that piece of land,” involving a proposed industrial project. Thankfully, said Millermon, the project was rejected. In considering the Silver Leaf proposal, Millermon said he looks forward to its completion. Circle Development Corporation, a not-for-profit established specifically for the project, submitted the Special Review Application. It calls for no more than 13 units — at least 10 attached 950-squarefeet units and one duplex, and a community building. Lowmaintenance landscaping would be watered with existing shares of Stewart Ditch water. Rob Dick, one of four principals, made his career as an affordable housing developer and housing financier. He developed two cohousing projects in Steamboat Springs, where he and wife/principal Kathy Crawford lived for 22 years, and Boulder’s first cohousing community. “Everything I know has gone into this project,” said Dick. The town first met with developers about nine months, said town manager Jane Berry. Town staff, engineering consultant Brandyn Bair, and attorney David Marek have reviewed the application and recently met with developers. “I am very pleased to say that every single issue of criteria requirement and provision has been met or exceeded,” said Berry, calling the review process “straightforward.” Many of the concerns raised

were addressed prior to the hearing, and developers have agreed to all of the conditions recommended by the town. The application is in compliance with town site plan and review criteria and performance standards, as well as special review requirements, said Berry. The proposed site is zoned R-2, medium density residential and does not require variances or rezoning. The plan also fits well with the town’s 1996 Comprehensive Plan, which recommends the creation of affordable housing and development of senior housing. The engineer recommends that developers install a 2inch and a 3-inch water tap to adequately service the development, rather than individual taps. Taps fees will total $127,050, which is $49,000 above the cost of 13 individual taps, which partners agree to. Each unit will be billed as a separate tap. Two sewer lines discovered on the property lack easements, and developers have agreed to correct the situation at no cost to the two affected property owners. No one spoke against the proposal, but several concerns were raised, including quality of construction, emergency access, flooding, increased traffic, storm drainage, lack of sidewalks, safety, and setbacks. Paul Douglas, who served on the commission during Millermon’s time, urged commissioners to address all issues prior to making a COHOUSING TO B2

Photo by Tamie Meck

Paonia planning commission member Barb Heck reviews plans for the Silver Leaf Cohousing Development at last Thursday’s presentation.

Image courtesy 3cycle Studio

The Silver Leaf Cohousing Development proposed for Third Street between Clark and Minnesota Avenues received conditional approval from the Paonia Planning Commission last Thursday. The proposal will come before trustees for ﬁnal approval on Feb. 23.

TEDx Paonia is ‘a celebration of ideas’ BY TAMIE MECK Staff Writer

Did you know that a Fishtrap Fellow and Wyss Scholar for Conservation of the Intermountain West and a pioneer in sustainable regenerative investing live in Paonia? And that the teacher and head coach of the two-time state champion Paonia Eagles earned his master’s degree in leadership in 2015? Do you wonder what they might have to say? These three individuals, along with about a dozen other “leading contemporary thinkers, innovators and influencers” will give a presentation at the Paradise Theatre on Feb. 6, as part of TEDx Paonia. The theme of the event is “Pushing Through The Pavement.” The event is a celebration of ideas and will tie Paonia with the globally recognized TED brand, said Julia Bowman, an AmeriCorps VISTA volunteer with the Western Slope Conservation Center and one of the event’s organiz-

Paonia chamber honors community businesses

ers. Speaking at last week’s meeting of the Rotary Club of the North Fork, Bowman said that like Rotary, the event is intended to build connections and create relationships and friendships with people outside of the area. The founders of TED, which stands for Technolology, Entertainment and Design, believe in the power of ideas “to change attitudes, lives and, ultimately, the world,” according to TED.com. The non-profit began in 1984 as a conference on the three original topics. Today, TED talks spread ideas, usually in the form of roughly 18-minute talks, throughout the world and in more than 10 languages. TEDx events are independently organized based on the ideas behind TED talks. TEDx Paonia speakers will be videoed, and individual talks will be placed on the TED global network for the world to see. Speakers were chosen from more than 30 applicants and are being coached on how to give their talks, according to co-organizer Elaine Brett with Friends of the Paradise Theatre. “It’s an amazing process, and very structured.” Brett said that of the first 40 tickets sold, 30 were from outside the North Fork Valley. While general admission

tickets for the day-long event sold out last week, some VIP tickets were still available. Sponsorships are still being sought, and include a long list of benefits, including local and/or global branding exposure and VIP tickets, depending on the level of sponsorship. In addition to the TEDx Paonia event, the Colorado Office of Film, Television and Media and Rocky Mountain PBS will screen two films highlighting Colorado history on Feb. 4 at the Paradise Theatre. The event is part of The Colorado Experience Roadshow, celebrating the people, places and events that have shaped the state. “Ladies of the Mines” follows the stories of three inspirational women who held their own in the early days of Colorado’s mining camps, enduring challenges including high altitudes, pack rats and spoiled Thanksgiving turkeys. “Cinema on the Plains” covers the state’s movie theaters from 1910 through the 1950s, and how they served as social and community hubs for towns located on the harsh Eastern Plains. A question and answer session and reception will follow the films. The event is free. For more information, visit www.paradiseofpaonia.com.

Pot questions on Hotchkiss ballot BY TAMIE MECK Staff Writer

Photo by Eric Goold

The North Fork Ambulance Association was named Nonproﬁt of the Year by the Paonia Chamber of Commerce during the chamber’s ﬁrst meeting of the year last Thursday evening at the Hive. Pictured left to right and on hand to accept the award were EMT Tyrell Clock and board members Larry Hughes, Clinton Clock and Chris Cox.

Photo by Eric Goold

Living Farm Café owner and chef Mike Gillespie accepts the award for Small Business of the Year 2015 from Paonia Chamber of Commerce vice president Doris Danielsen and president Mike Drake.

Photo by Eric Goold

Paonia Chamber of Commerce vice president Doris Danielsen accepts the award for Large Business of the Year 2015 on behalf of the First Colorado National Bank. Below, John Gavan accepts the Citizen of the Year award. He was lauded for his efforts to bring broadband Internet services to the Paonia area.

Hotchkiss voters will have the opportunity to decide whether to allow cannabis and cannabis-related businesses after the town council vote to put the issue on the April 5 ballot. Trustee James Roberts did not cast a vote. Resident Mary Hockenbery submitted the petition calling for the election at the Jan. 14 council meeting. If passed, the initiative would allow limited retail, recreational/medical marijuana stores and manufacturing of marijuana products and testing of marijuana and marijuana-infused products, limited to commercial zoning; and commercial growing, limited to industrial and light industrial zoning within the town limits. Voters will also be asked to decide on the taxing of products. The issue before council, said Mayor Wendell Koontz prior to discussion, isn’t whether trustees are for or against the proposal, but whether or not to allow the issue to be placed on the ballot. Citizens will vote on two separate questions — one on sales, testing and manufacturing, and another on how

to tax sales and services. If approved by voters, the initiative would go into effect in January 2017. Validation of the petition’s 32 signatures will be required before the town moves forward. “Do not put it on the ballot,” said Johnny Marta, who has submitted a petition to run for council. Marta said passage will mean more work for the marshal’s department and “bring in trouble. I don’t see where it will benefit the town at all.” “I think the citizens of Hotchkiss have already spoken that they don’t want marijuana sales or anything else in our town,” said Billie Marta. “I hope that the trustees will consider that when they’re voting tonight.” Trustee Tom Wills noted that a question of in-town sales and manufacturing has not yet come before voters. While she didn’t have exact numbers, town clerk Marlene Searle said both the 2000 state medical and 2013 recreational ballot issues failed within the town. The town also adopted a resolution in 2013 prohibiting the cultivation, product POT QUESTIONS TO B2

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NORTH FORK TIMES

Cohousing

Pot questions

FROM PAGE B1 recommendation to the town board, due to the project’s size. Douglas expressed several concerns, including a potential burden to taxpayers. “Development should pay its way,” said Douglas. He also raised the issue of “public open space obligation,” and dedication of land for public use, as stated in the town’s Land Development Regulations. “I think that should be addressed.”

The town agreed to pay for upgrades on the 300 block of Clark Avenue from Third Street north to where it deadends after neighbors expressed safety concerns. Callie West and husband John Cowell’s property is the only house on the 300 block of Clark Avenue. They aren’t against the project, said West. “It’s a perfect use for that lot.” West called the section of Clark Street “dangerous.” She described it as having potholes and

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Delta County Independent

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lacking curb and gutter, sidewalks or other defined boundaries, and said visitors prefer to park on Third and walk down to their house. Town recommendations call for a one-way traffic pattern that will have every vehicle going into the development driving past their house, which West said they understand and accept. “Our position is, we can’t support the project unless Clark Avenue is improved.” Speakers also praised the development for its commitment to being a good neighbor. Tom Glor, with Bear Ranch, LLC, which owns two acres and warehouses directly north of the site, called the project “a golden opportunity” that will bring jobs. If completed, the development is estimated to represent more than $2 million of new housing and associated property taxes. Local companies including 3Cycle Studio in Hotchkiss, Wilmore and Company surveying in Paonia and Paoniabased engineering firm Odisea LLC provided services for the project, and Dick assured the public that wherever possible, they will hire local businesses. With a total cost hinging on numerous factors, Dick said the project won’t go forward if the principals stand to lose money, and they aren’t subscribing to the “build-it-and-they-willcome” mentality. While they believe they can do the project affordably, attractively, and have it be an asset to the community, “There are still ifs,” said Dick. When asked about quality of construction, Dick replied, “This will either be done well or it will not be done.” Because this is the first project to come before the planning commission in two years, the town has scheduled a planning/board meeting/study session for 5:30 p.m. Tuesday, Jan. 26. The goal, said Berry, is to provide a refresher course for trustees and to get everyone comfortable with the process. The application is scheduled to come before trustees for a final vote at the Feb. 23 board meeting.

FROM PAGE B1 manufacturing, testing and retail sales within town limits. If council denied the petition request, Hockenbery said she would fulfill the statutory obligations for holding a special election in October. Special elections can be costly, said Searle. On the April election, “We’re spending $990; if we put it on later, we could spend up to $5,000.” In her 33 years with the town there has never been a special election, said Searle. “So to say the least, it’d be a real learning curve...” The town can also anticipate $2,775 to $5,500 in up-front legal fees for a special election, and additional legal fees if the question passes. If placed on the April ballot, those legal fees will be required only if it passes, said Searle. Town attorney Bo Nerlin recommended putting the question to voters in April. He said the tax question can be placed on the April ballot under the Taxpayer Bill of Rights, but not on a special election, which could cause complications. An April election would also give the town more time to consider how to administer the new law if it passes. While the state and communities struggled with regulations after recreational use was made legal in January 2013,

BY TAMIE MECK Staff Writer

Recent cold temperatures are hindering progress on the Town of Hotchkiss’ main sewer line rehabilitation project. “The alleys are really frozen,” said town engineer Joanne Fagan. With frost forming up to two feet below the surface, contractor Williams Construction is currently working on replacing manholes in sunnier, warmer locations. Fagan estimates the million-dollar project at about 20 percent complete. Most of the sewer line work is located in alleyways, which has created problems for Williams,

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cation of students on the dangers of marijuana as it writes the ballot questions. Yantzer said local schools have benefited, but that false and misleading statements about taxation and school income projections have been circulating. “Just make sure we’re well-educated as a town about that money,” Yantzer urged. “I think you should put it up for a vote,” said business owner Lynda Cannon, who attended the meeting for other reasons. While she said she has no strong feelings either way, “Economically, our town could benefit from it, if it’s done correctly and monitored wisely.” It’s already here in the black market, said Cannon, adding that the town has a great police department. “I think they can handle it.” Marshal Dan Miller urged council to begin preparing now for what happens post-election. “We can’t be like the state and play catch-up with our laws after it happens,” said Miller. Because final ballot language must be submitted to the county by Feb. 3, council will hold a special work session at 5 p.m. Wednesday, Jan. 20, to finalize ballot language. The meeting will also include a discussion on proposed amendments to the town’s water tap ordinance. The public is welcome.

Sewer line project creates mess for local businesses

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“There is some maturity now in the regulations developed statewide,” including in small communities, said Mayor Wendell Koontz. Hotchkiss High School principal Paul Rodriguez and K-8 School principal Carrie Yantzer both spoke about the issue as it pertains to schools. Rodriguez said he isn’t speaking for the Delta County School District, but noted that the district passed a resolution when Paonia voted on a similar measure in 2013, stating that it was not in favor of the proposal. He said that since statewide legalization, marijuana incidences involving students have increased in Paonia. Rodriguez said he spoke with district representatives about the Hotchkiss election, and that HHS staff report seeing little change in incidences at this point. He also contacted the principal at DeBeque High School, since growing and distribution have been legal in the small town for a year. “They have not seen really much change in their schools up to this point,” said Rodriguez. The DeBeque principal also said that cannabis businesses are paying for education regarding cannabis for both staff and students, said Rodriguez. Yantzer said the town should consider the edu-

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and for some local businesses. Kim Shay with Ace Gambles of Hotchkiss said she understands the project had to happen, but the alleyway behind their business is “at ground zero.” Due to mud in the alleyway, customers are forced to find parking elsewhere, and workers have had to unload delivery trucks by hand since Thanksgiving. “You need a fourwheeler to get through,” said Shay. If the forklift gets stuck, they have to get a backhoe to pull it out. “I don’t want to get a backhoe to get a forklift unstuck daily in this process,” said Shay. The section of alleyway behind West Elk and Weekender Sports is also “horrendous,” said Shay. Shay said that having to carry bags of wood pellets and concrete and other heavy items puts her employees at risk for injury. “I don’t know what the answer is, but we need to come up with something.” Fagan said the plans call for the contractor to contour the alley to improve drainage when the project is complete. They are working daily to correct the problem, said Fagan, who scheduled time to meet with

Shay and discuss possible solutions. Even if they put down a different rock base, “You’re still going to have drainage problems.” The problem has been ongoing for years, said Shay. Drainage issues along the entire block and water coming off of vacant lots into the parking lot, “creating what is sometimes less than affectionately know as ‘Lake Gambles.’” Shay said she’s been warned that if the parking lot/lake is filled in, water will get pushed to houses to the south and possibly cause flooding. “I don’t want to cause anybody problems here,” said Shay, adding that the town needs to find a creative drainage solution. Site superintendent Lewie Lewis said his crews are doing what they can under the freeze/ thaw conditions and have been putting gravel down in the alleys. “There’s at least a foot and a half of frost on top, and two feet of muck below that,” said Lewis. Once work is complete, said Lewis, Williams will back fill and put in road base and drainage, as required by the contract. For now, said Lewis, “You just can’t do it in these conditions.”

Crawford council petitions due Monday BY TAMIE MECK Staff Writer

Crawford Town Council will hold a regular meeting at 7 p.m. tonight, at Crawford Town Hall. It’s an election year and three, four-year council seats, held by Wanda Gofforth, Larry Kontour and Hetty Todd, and a two-year term held by Gill Saunders are up for election. The town will be electing a new mayor since Susie Steckel’s term is also up. Steckel has stated she will not seek re-election. Petitions are available at Town Hall. Submission deadline is Monday, Jan. 25. Petitioners must have been a resident of Crawford for a minimum of one year. Incumbents Gill Saunders and Wanda Gofforth have submitted petitions, as have residents Carl Page, Tammy

Broughton and Jay Ziegler. The biggest topic at the Jan. 9 council meeting was finding a new town clerk. Trustees reviewed applications for the position and conducted interviews on Jan. 13. The town is targeting Feb. 1 as a starting date.

PEOPLE IN THE NEWS Tessa Weber of Hotchkiss has been named to the Chatham University School of Arts, Science & Business Dean’s List for the fall 2015 term. To be eligible for Dean’s List, students must carry a GPA of at least 3.5 and complete a minimum of 12 credits for a letter grade.

NORTH FORK TIMES

Delta County Independent

Wednesday, January 20, 2016

Hotchkiss considers changes in mobile home regulations Public hearing scheduled for Jan. 27, 6:30 p.m. BY TAMIE MECK Staff Writer

Photo submitted

Hotchkiss Elks Lodge #1807 winners are (back row, from left): Paige Roberts, Princessa Mora, Peyton Gibson, Ace Connolly and Oliver Mendoza; front row (from left): Maddie Brezonick, Brook Harding, Kenny Drbohlav. Not pictured: Hunter Moreno, Kacie McCollum, Addison Neal, Isaiah Moreno.

Hoop Shoot winners Hotchkiss Elks Lodge #1807 held its annual “Hoop Shoot” free throw contest on Jan. 17, at Hotchkiss High School. The Hoop Shoot program is the largest and most visible of the many youth activities sponsored by Elks lodges. This year’s lodge winners are: Girls 8-9: 1st - Brook Harding; 2nd - Maddie Brezonick. Boys 8-9: 1st - Hunter Moreno; 2nd - Peyton Gibson.

Girls 10-11: 1st - Kacie McCollum; 2nd - Addison Neal. Boys 10-11: 1st - Ace Connolly; 2nd - Isaiah Moreno. Girls 12-13: 1st - Paige Roberts; 2nd - Princessa Mora. Boys 12-13: 1st - Kenny Drbohlav; 2nd - Oliver Mendoza. First-place winners advance to the District Hoop Shoot on Jan. 31, at Fort Lewis College in Durango.

Author to speak at Paonia Library Jan. 25 Award-winning author Donald Sampson will hold a book signing and presentation of the importance of storytelling in education at 5 p.m. Monday, Jan. 25, at the Paonia Library. Samson’s “Dragon Boy” is the first book in the

Star Trilogy. He also wrote “Dragon of Two Hearts,” and “The Dragon, the Blade and the Thread.” Like his books, his program will hold the interest of readers of all ages. The event is sponsored by the North Fork School of Integrated Studies.

The Hotchkiss Planning Commission will hold a public hearing on proposed changes to mobile home regulations within the town of Hotchkiss, on Wednesday, Jan. 27, beginning at 6:30 p.m. The commission will hear public comments on a draft ordinance amending the town’s “Mobile Home and Travel Home Regulations.” Commission member and town trustee Tom Wills has presented a revised draft of the regulations, which reflects discussions held during the Oct. 28 planning meeting. Under the draft, importation of mobile homes 25 years or older at the time of the adoption of the ordinance will not be allowed. Previously installed mobile homes manufactured after June 15, 1976, shall comply with the requirements of the National Mobile Home Construction and Safety Standards Act of 1974; existing mobile homes manufactured prior to June 15, 1976, shall comply with the Colorado Housing Act of 1970. Existing non-conforming mobile homes will be required to undergo periodic inspection by the

town building inspector, and when change of ownership occurs or when utility bills are transferred to a new resident. The town shall set a reasonable fee, and “ensure that safety is being maintained and the degree of nonconformity is not being increased.” If violations are detected, owners will be given 30 days to correct them or to have the unit removed. In addition, all nonconforming mobile home parks shall undergo periodic inspection to ensure they are being well maintained and that the degree of nonconformity is not being increased. The main concern behind the changes is the safety and wellbeing of the citizens of Hotchkiss, said Mayor Wendell Koontz. According to the National Fire Protection Association, incidences of fires in manufactured homes built after regulations were put in place in the 1970s decreased; from 2007-2011, the death rate for post-standards manufactured homes was 57 percent lower than those made prior to the standards. Public comment will be taken at the hearing, and written comments may also be submitted to the town clerk prior to the meeting. At the meeting, planning commissioners will also discuss the annual Master Plan and Appen-

History comes to the Paradise A bit of history will be coming to the historic Paradise Theatre in Paonia Thursday, Feb. 4, at 6 p.m. The Colorado Office of Film, Television and Media and Rocky Mountain PBS will present episodes from the PBS Colorado Experience series, a program that celebrates the people, places and events that have shaped Colorado. The evening will include two episodes, with question-and-answer time and a catered reception following the films. The event is free to the public. The screenings selected by RMPBS include “Ladies of the Mines” and “Cinema on the Plains.” In “Ladies of the

Film fest entries due by Feb. 5 Attention amateur and professional filmmakers: Short films are being sought for screening at the fourth Paonia Film Festival on April 28-30 at the Paradise Theatre in Paonia. Films should be created by Colorado filmmakers and include content related to Colorado. Deadline is Feb. 5. For more information, visit paradiseofpaonia.com.

Mines,” discover the women who survived and thrived in Colorado’s mining camps. High altitude, groceries delivered by mule train, pack rats and spoiled Thanksgiving turkeys are just a few of the challenges faced by ladies living in Colorado’s remote mining towns at the end of the 19th century. Learn the stories of three inspirational women who held their own while surrounded by a harsh landscape and

Casino night set for Jan. 30 Rotary Club of the North Fork will hold its annual Casino Night to benefit the Rotary scholarship program, from 711 p.m. Saturday, Jan. 30, at the Glennie Coombe Gallery, 140 Grand Avenue, Paonia. The event includes poker and black jack, prizes and a silent auction, as well as finger foods. Beer and wine will be available. Tickets are $20 per person and are available at Paonia Farm and Home, from Rotary members, and at the door. For details, call Marsha at 872-4628.

un-lady-like company. “Cinema on the Plains” showcases the movie theaters that served as social and community hubs for eastern Colorado towns from 1910 through the 1950s. From Eads and Rocky Ford to Wray and Julesburg, cinemas brought the glamour of Hollywood to rural towns and connected them to the rest of the world. However, costs to maintain the theaters forced many to close their doors. From original popcorn machines to 3D screens, discover how the theaters of the eastern plains continue to serve as commu-

nity catalysts. The Paradise has served the North Fork Valley community since 1928 and is a Delta County Historic Landmark. The Friends of the Paradise Theatre is a nonprofit corporation formed in 2014 to enhance the quality of life in the North Fork Valley by providing multi-use performance space and by creating opportunities that enable community activities. More information is available at www. paradiseofpaonia.com or to find out how you can be involved, email www. paradiseofpaonia.com.

later than 2017. While basic updates can begin anytime, Wills recommends getting data and actions updated to allow for a “full community survey,” as well as public meetings, in 2017.

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dixes Review. According to a memo from Wills, four years have passed since the last update of the main body of the plan. That revision recommends that the next update be completed no

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

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B4 Wednesday, January 20, 2016

HEALTH & FITNESS

Delta County Independent

�� Blood draw, health fair dates set ��

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Dates and times for this year’s Lions Club and Delta County Memorial Hospital’s annual health fair events have been announced. Early Blood Draws Early blood draws will take place Feb. 17, 18, 19 and 20. Paonia — Wednesday, Feb. 17, Delta-Montrose Technical College, 6:30 to 9:30 a.m. Cedaredge — Thursday Feb. 18, at the Cedaredge Civic Center, 6:30 to 9:30 a.m. Delta — Friday and Saturday, Feb. 19 and 20, DCMH oncology classrooms, 6:30 to 10 a.m. Health Fairs Paonia — Wednesday, March 16, DeltaMontrose Technical College, 6:30 to 10 a.m. Delta — Thursday,

March 17, Bill Heddles Recreation Center, 6:30 to 11 a.m. Cedaredge — Friday, March 18, Cedaredge Civic Center, 6:30 to 10 a.m. Call-in appointments are scheduled Feb. 3, 4, 5 from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. daily by calling 888-5926255. People can set up appointments for the early blood draws or the health fairs in all three locations. Online registration began Monday, Jan. 11, and runs through Feb. 12 for the blood draws. Register for the health fairs Feb. 22 through March 11. Register on the hospital’s website, deltahos pitalorg. Onsite registration the day of the event is also an option, with some walk-ins allowed after those with appointments have been seen. Expect waiting time. Changes for 2016 There are no price increases this year for health screens. Blood draws are the same price as last year. All health screens offered in 2015 will be the same for this year as well. Starting in 2016 individual health screen results will be mailed out by Quest and may take up to three weeks to be received. (In previous years DCMH mailed out results within approximately two weeks). If a participant needs health screen results sooner than within a threeweek timeframe, health fair participants may request their health screen results from Patti Kalahar, Paula Carter or Jessica Good in the marketing/education department at Delta County Memorial Hospital. Early blood draw and health fair participants need to fast for 12 hours, drink lots of water (it makes it easier to draw the blood), and take their daily medications. One cup of black coffee without sugar or cream is allowed. Cash or checks only; no insurance accepted. Medicare or Medicaid will not pay for the blood draws at health fairs. If you want to do a blood draw with some of these health screens, then your family doctor will need to write an order for them, and you will need to get them done directly at the DCMH laboratory, or another medical facility. List of Health Screens Offered in 2016 Healthscreen , $40 — 32 metabolic functions, lipid panel with direct LDL, TSH, liver, kidney, muscle, bone, uric acid, iron panel with ferritin. CBC (Complete Blood Count), $20 — screening presents a general picture of overall blood health and checks for infection, anemia and early signs of leukemia.

PSA (men over age 40), $30. Hemoglobin A1C, $35 — Provides an average blood glucose level over four months and is nonfasting screening. Recommended for anyone with a family history of diabetes. Vitamin D, $40 — concise measurement of D2 level for vitamin and nutritional absorption, D3 for conversion of sunshine absorption, and total amount of D to define sufficient, insufficient or deficient level. Cardio CRP (C-Reactive Protein), $40 — elevated levels of C-reactive protein can indicate vascular inflammation. Inflammation may cause cholesterol deposits to break off and clog an artery. Gluten Sensitivity (Celiac/Spru Test), $45 — s simple screening test for gluten sensitivity that measures antibodies to an enzyme (tissue tanasglutaminease) which is a normal enzyme found in the digestive system. Vitamin B12 Levels and Folate Levels, $40 — essential for production of red blood cells, the function of nerve cells, and is required for DNA replication. Lack of these can cause anemia, fatigue, depression and poor memory. Testosterone, Total

Male, $45 — a hormone produced in males that regulates the retension of protein in the body and supports muscle mass, bone strength and sexual characteristics. Low T can cause hair loss, weight gain and decreased libido. Testosterone, Total Female, $45 — A hormone produced in females (and males) that contributes to lean muscle mass, bone density and maintaining libido. Low T can cause brittle hair, decreased bone and muscle strength and diminished libido. Insure Fit Colon Screening Kit, $35 — specific to the hemoglobin and does not react with non-human hemoglobin, vitamins, drugs, or peroxidase from food sources. No specific diet required and brush stool for easy sampling. For additional questions or if you are having difficulty with online registration, please contact the Delta County Memorial Hospital education/ marketing department. Contacts are Patti Kalahar, manager, 874-2291, pkalahar@deltahospital. org; Paula Carter, education coordinator, 874-2298, pcarter@deltahospital. org; or Jessica Good, printing/publications, 874-6411, jgood@delta hospital.org.

Photo submitted

25-year employees

Jason Cleckler, hospital CEO (left) congratulates Ronda Wrich on her 25th anniversary as an employee of Delta County Memorial Hospital. Also pictured is Heather Cannell, clinic manager for Premier Women’s Healthcare of Delta. Below left is Norma Vigil, who is also a 25-year employee of DCMH.

HEALTH & FITNESS

Delta County Independent

It’s National Radon Action Month January is National Radon Action Month. This Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) initiative brings the dangers of radon to the forefront of news and media nationwide. Radon is a naturally occurring carcinogen with many case studies showing a direct correlation to lung cancer and other possible diseases. Radon is a radioactive gas produced by the breakdown

Photo submitted

15-year employee

Patrick Suazo has worked in the housekeeping department of Delta County Memorial Hospital for 15 years.

of uranium, thorium and radium in rock and soil. With no scent or taste and being invisible, radon is a silent killer that seeps into building structures and does not discriminate against its victims. The EPA has set an action level against radon of 4.0 pCi/L (picocuries per liter of air.) However, regular exposure to this level of radon is equivalent to smoking eight cigarettes a day; likewise, the radiation level is like having 200 chest X-rays per year. The World Health Organization (WHO) states to take action at 2.7 pCi/L; however, both the EPA and WHO state that there is no safe level of radon exposure. Studies among miners, laboratory animals and cancer victims have proven radon exposure is a cause of lung cancer. Radon is the number one cause of lung cancer in non-smokers. Cancer from exposure to radon could take 5 to 30 years to develop; however, there are other ailments that have been linked to radon. A factor in understanding the full body effect of radon is that one-third of inhaled radon enters the bloodstream through the lungs. Radiation has been found in the brains of Alzheimer’s and Parkinson’s patients. There

have also been studies showing the link between children with leukemia and radon. However, the evidence has not been as strong as it being a main cause of lung cancer, second only to smoking and causing 21,000 deaths a year. Safety from high levels of radon is possible, but action must be taken. First, knowing the radon gas level in homes, workplaces and schools is key. Second, seal cracks and crevices to help minimize the entry of gas into the structure. Lastly, install a radon mitigation system ifs necessary for removing the radon from under the building’s foundation, before it can enter in and affect those within the walls. Radon is naturally occurring and outdoor levels can be as high as 0.75 pCi/L, therefore, taking action means to reduce indoor levels as much as possible. There are several ways to test levels of radon. Radon testing professionals who have been trained and certified can set up testing devices and results can be obtained in 24-72 hours. Do-ityourself test kits can be obtained by going to 911Radon.com and purchased for $5 with promo code TSTNOW, available until the end of January. These test kits are sim-

ply set up for three days, mailed to a laboratory, and results are available within 72 hours. Longterm test kits are another way of “do-it-yourself” testing. This can take nine months to a year. These tests will give you the average over time and can be purchased through various outlets. The key to all forms of testing is understanding that radon levels can fluctuate based on the time of year, weather, wind, how well the home is insulated, and ventilation systems in the home. Radon levels can be elevated in new homes due to the insulation and sealing. As the heat and air conditioning is kept in the home, so is the radon gas. However, with older homes, radon gas levels can be elevated due to cracks in the foundation. Reducing levels of radon with a radon mitigation system is the best way to ventilate radon gas and move it from under the structure to the outside air where it is diluted. January is the one time of the year that EPA and health experts push testing for radon. However, keeping safe from high levels of radon and the effects of this deadly gas is a year-round process. Take the time to test, fix and save a life from radon gas.

How to keep plugging on your New Year’s resolution

Many people make New Year’s resolutions each year, but if history is any guide, few people are likely to achieve their resolutions. A University of Scranton study published in the Journal of Clinical Psychology found that just 8 percent of people who make New Year’s resolutions achieve those resolutions. The study indicated that time may be the ultimate enemy with regard to achieving New Year’s resolutions. While 75 percent of those making resolutions maintained their focus through the first week, that figure dropped to 64 percent by the end of the

Photo submitted

5-year employee

Sammie Miller has worked in the housekeeping department of Delta County Memorial Hospital for ﬁve years.

first month before dipping all the way to 46 percent after six months. So how can you make this year the year when your New Year’s resolution becomes a reality? Consider the following tips. • Don’t go it alone. One of the best ways to realize your New Year’s resolution is to enlist the help of a friend. For example, if your goal is to lose weight, then start going to the gym with your spouse or a friend who works out regularly. The buddy system can provide just the motivation you need, and having a friend there to offer support can help you stay focused on those days when your will to keep going starts to wane. • Be as specific as possible. Vague resolutions leave too much wiggle room, and that can compromise your ability to achieve your goal. Set specific goals with clear benchmarks so you can celebrate your progress as the year goes on. If your goal is to save ‘X’ amount of money in the next year, divide that number by 12 and aim to reach that smaller figure by the end of each month. • Be realistic. Some people fail to achieve their resolutions because they simply set the bar too high. While it’s good to push yourself, don’t choose a resolution that’s unrealistic. If you do, you may quit early if you realize you aren’t making enough progress despite your putting forth your best efforts, or you

might take an unhealthy approach in an attempt to circumvent some of the obstacles in your way. If your goal is to lose weight, speak with your physician first to determine a weight loss goal that is healthy and reasonable. • Expect a few bumps in the road. En route to achieving your resolution, expect a few bumps in the road. Life is never entirely predictable, and there will be a few unforeseen events over the course of the year that may throw you off target. Anticipate and accept such obstacles so they don’t derail your efforts. New Year’s resolutions do not always become a reality. But there are several ways to make this the year you finally realize your goals.

Wednesday, January 20, 2016

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B6 Wednesday, January 20, 2016

SPORTS

SPORTS January 20, 2016

Delta County Independent

www.deltacountyindependent.com

Eagle boys flying high; No. 5 BY ERIC GOOLD DCI Sports Writer

The boys’ basketball team from Paonia High School keeps putting up big wins and is moving up rapidly in state polls. The Eagles were ranked No. 5 in 2A in the most recent CHSAA online poll, and they might go higher after posting two big victories last week. The Eagles are 9-1 overall and 3-0 in 1A/2A Western Slope League play. Paonia 74, HHS 42 The Eagles renewed the long rivalry against their North Fork Valley neighbor in the Paonia gym on Jan. 12. Hotchkiss kept it close in the first quarter before Dagan Rienks led a 26-point outburst from Paonia’s offense in the second quarter and the Eagles cruised to the big win. Alex Lozano started the Eagles’ big run in the second with a steal, then ran the floor and scored. He quickly stole the ball again, this time setting up Rienks for a 3-point play and a 20-13 lead. “We played excited, with some energy,” Paonia

coach Chase Roeber said. “We got up and down the floor in a hurry. That was the big way we built our lead.” Rienks scored the next 12 points for the Eagles. He showed a variety of post moves, dominated above the rim and finished plays from the paint and the baseline. He tallied a game-high

22 points in the win. “Dagan’s muscled up some, he’s gotten a little stouter,” Roeber said. “That’s the biggest difference between this year and last year. He’s spent a lot of time in the weight room and that’s really helped him in the post and being able to finish with contact.” Colby Simpson col-

BY ERIC GOOLD DCI Sports Writer

Photo by Eric Goold

Eagles junior Dagan Rienks soars to block the effort of Bulldogs senior Clayton Oxford. Rienks was a force on both sides of the court, leading all scorers with 22 points and pacing Paonia to the 2A District 5 win.

games.

Girls A road trip to Frisco Delta 65, Summit 41 Big offensive nights on a blustery winter day was made brighter after by Lily Lockhart, Emily both the girls’ and boys’ Nortnik and Dani Sakala varsity basketball teams paced Delta’s Panthers to earned victories in 4A their fifth win of the seaWSL play. The girls led son against six losses. Nortnik got the Panfrom start to finish and scored a 65-41 decision thers rolling with seven over the Tigers. Delta’s points in the first period, boys took care of the igniting a 17-9 run. Lockhart’s 10 secondball down the stretch to hold off Summit for a 61- quarter points helped the 46 win in the evening’s Panthers extend their lead with a 20-8 surge finale. Both junior varsity and a halftime lead of squads lost preliminary 37-17. Secondhalf scoring for the Panthers was a collective effort, as six different players accounted for 14 points in the third period. Five different players put another 14 points on the scoreboard in the fourth frame, outscoring Photo courtesy Lisa Nortnik the Tigers Delta junior Joyclie Webb tips the ball 28-24 for away from a Summit Tiger offensive a winning player in ﬁrst-half action last Friday. score of 65The Panthers went on to score a 65- 41. Megan 41 win in 4A WSL play. McDonDCI Sports Editor

test. Enoch Kropp and Colton Godwin both had a bucket. Francisco Lopez had six points, including a 3-pointer. Lozano and Sean Devlin both scored four points, and Triston Mautz scored eight. Rienks brought the house down with a thunderous dunk in the third as the Eagles upped their advantage to 59-28 going into the final frame. Roeber was pleased with the outcome but doesn’t want the Eagles to rest on their laurels. “We’re off to a pretty good start to the year,” Roeber said. “It all comes down to the next game so we’re not looking too far

ahead right now.” Paonia 60, Rangely 40 That next game turned out to be at Rangely last Friday, the first of five straight road games for the Eagles. Rienks led the way again with a game-high 20 points as Paonia led 12-7 after one quarter and 33-17 at halftime. Colby Simpson scored 18 points for the winners while Francisco Lopez netted 12. The Eagles upped their advantage to 47-27 after three quarters of play. Paonia faced Caprock last night and is on the road Friday night in Cedaredge.

PHS girls on mission; soaring to big victories

Panther hardwood teams win in Summit BY WAYNE CRICK

lected a loose ball late in the second quarter and scored at the buzzer to put the Eagles in command at halftime 39-16. Simpson finished with 15 points and Eagles senior Taylor Walters threw in 11 for the winners. “It’s good for us to get out and run against teams,” Roeber said. “Early in the season we had to slow it down a little, but now we’re more in control of our fast break and doing a better job getting out and running.” The free-flowing offense suited all the Eagles, as nine different players scored in the con-

nell scored 10 points for Summit in the first half and another seven in second-half play to lead all scorers with 17 points. Tiger teammate Autumn Ward netted nine of her 13 points in the fourth period for Summit. Summit fell to 0-4 in league play and 4-6 overall. Delta is 2-4 and 5-6 overall. The Panthers faced Palisade in Delta on Tuesday, looking to reverse the 51-12 loss at the hands of Palisade on Dec. 11 in Palisade. Delta is on the road to Gypsum to face Eagle Valley on Friday, Jan. 22, with that game set to start at 6 p.m. A Saturday contest against Glenwood Springs (1-2 and 2-7) will initiate the second time through league play. Tipoff is set for 2 p.m. Boys Delta 61, Summit 46 The cold and snowy trip to Frisco was not as concerning after the Panthers polished off Summit with a 61-46 4A WSL victory. Senior Jonny Ponce was unstoppable in the first quarter as he scored eight of Delta’s 14 points in the period. His tenacious drives to the rim resulted in a pair of field goals and eight DELTA HOOPS TO B7

Whispers around Paonia High School are reminding fans that this year’s girls’ basketball squad is starting to look a lot like another really good Eagles team. The 2010 Eagles were the last Paonia squad to win state, and this year’s version of the Eagles looks a lot like that dominating team. Paonia is ranked No. 4 in 2A and boasts a 9-1 record, 3-0 in 1A/2A Western Slope League games. All nine wins were by at least 20 points. Two blowout wins last week continued the Eagles’ streak of scorching victories. On Jan. 12, Paonia hosted North Fork Valley neighbor Hotchkiss for a renewal of their rivalry. According to published reports, the first time these teams played was Feb. 28, 1918. Paonia won the Western Slope Basketball Championship by beating Hotchkiss 36-16. The 2015 version of the game turned out to be a 59-19 rout by Paonia. Ashley Van Vleet scored from the paint and Paonia jumped quickly ahead, 7-0. Brittany Kendall scored a nice layup and then hit a 3-pointer. Back-to-back buckets from Taylor Carsten gave the Eagles an insurmountable 17-1 lead after the first quarter. “We came out and took care of our stuff early,” Paonia coach Scott Rienks said. “That was kind of what we wanted to do. We wanted to come out of the locker room and be ready to go.” Sophia Anderson scored on a baseline drive, then Chey Christian drove through the lane and scored for Paonia as the Eagles increased their lead in the second quarter. Anderson had another bucket and Brianna Van Vleet had back-toback scores, and Paonia jumped up 33-6. Anderson

beat her defender off the dribble and scored again, and McKenna Hartigan’s free throw sent Paonia into halftime ahead 36-7. The Bulldogs employed an unusual strategy to open the second half. Point guard Mae Anderson brought the ball over the halfcourt line, then just stopped and held the ball. All the other Bulldogs stood, unmoving, not executing an offense of any kind. Anderson just held the ball, not dribbling. And time ticked off. “That’s the first time I’ve ever seen that,” Rienks said. “I honestly didn’t think they’d do it (stall) like that, and then when we got down to almost six minutes left, I was like, ‘Are you kidding me?” Eagles junior Emily Pieper, who was defending Anderson, was caught off guard along with the rest of Paonia’s players. “I didn’t really know what to do,” Pieper said. “So we just kind of looked at my coach and waited for him to tell us to play.” The Eagles have won many games by blowout during Rienks’ nine-year career as coach, but nei-

ther he nor the players had ever seen such a stall tactic employed against them. “That’s not helping either program. The kids need to learn to play. It’s frustrating,” Rienks said. “There’s a lot about that game I haven’t seen before, and I’ve been coaching for a long time.” The referees whistled Hotchkiss for a violation of some kind after Anderson ended up holding the ball for at least 35 to 45 seconds. Paonia got rolling again as soon as it had the ball. It led 53-7 after three quarters. “I think we really work as a team,” Pieper said. “Even though it wasn’t a very tough team to play against I think we still kept the intensity and played together.” Paonia kept up the intensity in a victory on the road last Friday, beating Rangely 60-22. It was the Eagles’ sixth win in a row since their only loss to Olathe. Oddly enough, the 2010 state champions also lost to Olathe. “We practice hard,” Rienks said. “We have intense practices and I think we showed that on the floor tonight.”

Photo by Eric Goold

Two seniors battle as Paonia’s Taylor Carsten maneuvers around the Bulldogs’ Sam Galley in their renewal of the North Fork Valley rivalry game last week in Paonia. The No. 4 Eagles won the game by a large margin.

‘Dogs win duals; big week for grapplers BY ERIC GOOLD DCI Sports Writer

The wrestlers at Hotchkiss High School keep posting impressive wins. On the Mat ranks the Bulldogs as No. 6 in 2A, right behind Paonia. The Bulldogs had only one event last week. They went to Grand Valley for a tri-meet and posted Photo courtesy Lisa Nortnik dual wins over the host All eyes, and ears, are diverted to Delta boys’ coach Von Mitchell during a time and Glenwood Springs. out in Frisco where the Panthers played Summit’s Tigers. The Panthers had a Hotchkiss beat Grand nine-point lead at halftime and managed to pull away for a 61-46 win. Valley 65-9 in the first

dual. Four Bulldogs won by pinfall: Colton Cordova at 113 pounds, Colton Hall (126), Colton DeLuzio (132) and Kale Litzelman (170). Chris Lovato won by technical fall at 120 and the Bulldogs picked up several points with wins by forfeit in open divisions. The match against Glenwood Springs was a battle that actually ended in a 39-39 tie, but

Hotchkiss picked up the win based on the fourth tie breaker (technical falls). Three Bulldogs won by pin in the dual: Austin Todd at 145 pounds, Devin Curtis (195) and Connor Collins (heavyweight). At 120, Lovato won a major decision for Hotchkiss and Wade Katzdorn scored a technical fall victory at 160. WRESTLING TO B7

SPORTS

Delta County Independent

Wednesday, January 20, 2016

Bruins hoopsters win pair BY WAYNE CRICK DCI Sports Editor

The Cedaredge Bruins played out of town over the weekend starting with a contest in Collbran against Plateau Valley. Both varsity basketball teams won their

games, with the girls scoring an 82-47 victory and the boys posting a 5033 decision. Both teams collected wins in Grand Junction over Caprock Academy on Saturday. The girls won, 61-14, and the boys were 41-33 win-

Photo by Wayne Crick

Cedaredge senior Tyler Cooper lays the ball off the backboard against Caprock Academy’s defense in ﬁrst-quarter play last Saturday. Cooper, and the Bruins, overcame a slow start to earn a 41-33 decision in Grand Junction.

Wrestling CONTINUED FROM B6 Hotchkiss has a trimeet scheduled versus No. 3 Meeker and No. 4 Nucla/Naturita at home on Friday night, then will be at the Screamin’ Eagle tournament in Paonia on Saturday. Bruins win tourney The Cedaredge wrestling team got a nice tournament win last Saturday, winning the 18-team Rob Mickel Tournament in Salida.

The Bruins were led by two individual champs. Zach Anderson won at 170 pounds while senior standout Tre LaBossiere captured the championship at 195. Cedaredge had three second place finishers: Blake Nation (120), Colton Hoerr (138) and Landon Eckhart (182). Finishing in third place for Cedaredge were Dakota Nequette (126) and Anthony Antuna

Delta hoops CONTINUED FROM B6 free throws, making four, in the first eight minutes. In all, Ponce was Delta’s leading scorer in the game with 15 points, all coming in the first and fourth periods of the contest. The Panthers held steady in the second quarter with another 14 points from the offense and just six points allowed by the defense.

Logan Freed came off the bench in the third quarter to spark the Panthers’ offense with eight points and some nifty moves for good shots. The Panthers maintained their offensive advantage with a 16-14 run and a 44-33 lead going to the final stanza. Ponce got back into the offensive flow during fourth-quarter play with seven more points, helping Delta outscore the

ners in their game. Girls Bruins 82, Cowboys 47 Cedaredge wasted little time establishing who had command of the game with a 20-8 first quarter. The game was evenly played in the second quarter with the Bruins holding onto their scoring advantage in the period, 20-19, to take a 40-27 lead at halftime. The Bruins re-established game dominance in the third period with a 16-7 run and then finished with a 26-13 dash through the fourth quarter. Junior Hailey Henrie found the range for 20 points to lead four Cedaredge players in double-figure scoring. Hailey’s offensive display included four shots from beyond the arc. Three seniors joined the double-digit parade, including Kendall McHugh (16), Nellie Freeman (15, with two 3-pointers) and Hannah Gilmore with 14 counters. Plateau Valley’s Laura Greene led the Cowboys’ offense with 18 points, followed by Caitlyn Nichols (14) and Randy Showalter (11). Bruins 61, Caprock 14 The score was 28-3 at

(220). Paonia hosts No. 5 Paonia has a busy week. The Eagles host a dual against a very strong Olathe team on Thursday night. Then the Paonia Duals are on Friday and Saturday features one of Paonia’s highlights of the season, the Screamin’ Eagle Tournament, scheduled for the Paonia gym at 8 a.m.

Tigers by four points and stretching the final margin of victory to 15. Dylan Hollenbeck and Kyle Mock finished with 11 points each, Jaspar Carmichael had nine points and Freed eight. Delta’s boys are in Gypsum for a 7:30 p.m. encounter with Eagle Valley on Friday, Jan. 22. Glenwood Springs comes to town on Saturday for a 3:30 p.m. varsity boys’ contest.

halftime with Cedaredge comfortably ahead. A brief conversation with girls’ head coach Ryan Hilbig revealed some displeasure with the Bruins’ performance in the first half. When asked how his team was playing, Hilbig, who believes his team could have played better, simply shrugged and said, “Alright I guess. It seems like we’re dragging a bit after last night’s game in Collbran.” The Bruins were more aggressive in the third quarter and smothered the Eagles’ offensive efforts while running to an 18-1 advantage in the period. A fourth-quarter run by the Eagles held the score down, but Cedaredge was able to win the period

with a 15-10 margin and a final score of 61-14. McHugh scored 16 points to lead the Bruins’ offense, with teammates Gilmore and Freeman adding 12 and 11 points, respectively. Gilmore was outstanding on the boards with seven offensive rebounds and one at the defensive end. Boys Bruins 50, Cowboys 33 Cedaredge did not overpower the Cowboys, except for the third quarter where the Bruins outplayed the Cowboys, 163, taking a 39-26 lead to the fourth quarter. The Cowboys (1-3 and 2-6) trailed by two after one period of action but enjoyed a 23-23 tie at halftime.

Photo by Wayne Crick

Hannah Gilmore took advantage of a porous Caprock defensive unit to score two of her 12 points in Cedaredge’s 61-14 win. The Bruins are cruising through the competition with defense playing a big part. Caprock had four points in three quarters of play.

Following the big third quarter, Cedaredge (4-0 and 7-3) added four more points to its lead in the fourth quarter to score a 50-33 decision. Senior Garrett Meyers led the Bruins with 14 points on offense with teammates Shane Gates and Christian Reynolds scoring 12 points each. Tyler Cooper scored eight points for the Bruins, with six of those points coming at the free-throw line. Bruins 41, Eagles 33 Caprock Academy held its own in the early going, but couldn’t keep up in the second half. The Eagles were able to generate enough offense to finish the first period with a 14-11 lead. Cedaredge made the biggest gains in the middle quarters with 12 points in the second period and another 11 in the third. In the same time span, Caprock scored six and three points, respectively. The Eagles outscored Cedaredge, 10-7, in the fourth quarter but came up short in the eightpoint loss. Cedaredge’s schedule for this week included a visit from Hotchkiss on Jan. 19 and the first of two key ballgames against Paonia on Jan. 22. Both teams are running on high octane, with the winner of those games most likely determining the league winner. A split would make other variables the final determining factor. Friday’s contest is set for 6 p.m. (girls) and 7:30 p.m. (boys). Cedaredge will travel to Basalt on Tuesday of next week for contests against the Longhorns. Game times are 5:30 and 7 p.m.

Bulldog boys hang on to lasso the Cowboys BY ERIC GOOLD DCI Sports Writer

The Hotchkiss High School boys’ basketball team finally put all the pieces together. The Bulldogs executed in a close fourth quarter and gutted out a 59-53 win over Meeker last Saturday night. The win capped a busy week for Hotchkiss, which fell to No. 5 Paonia

before rebounding with the big win against the Cowboys. The Bulldogs improved to 3-7 overall and are 2-1 in 1A/2A Western Slope League play. In a season that had previously seen the Bulldogs fail to execute down the stretch in several close games, Hotchkiss rallied to get a lead and then held onto it in the

fourth quarter for the win. “We worked really hard last week just as a team,” Hotchkiss junior Zack Allen said. “Tonight we played probably the best we played all season, so it feels pretty good to win like that.” Allen and senior Clayton Oxford formed a dominant pair in the post, HHS BOYS TO B8

B8 Wednesday, January 20, 2016

SPORTS

Delta County Independent

Panthers fifth in Alamosa BY WAYNE CRICK DCI Sports Editor

Delta’s Panthers were in Alamosa over the weekend to compete in the 13team wrestling tournament hosted by the Mean Moose. Pueblo West won the tournament with 189.5 points, with highly touted 2A school Rocky Ford finishing second with 187 points. Mesa Ridge was

third with its 171 points and host Alamosa placed fourth (154.5). Delta’s Panthers were fifth after scoring 124 points. Delta finished the tournament with one champion, Kory Mills, at 170 pounds. Sophomore Logan Church picked up a second-place finish in the 285-pound division. The Panthers earned

and sports a 17-6 record bout and finished with a Martinez found the right following last week’s pin at the 2:44 mark of combination for a pinfall competition in Alamosa. the match for the win. at 1:56 of the opening Junior Onyx Rowland The Panthers suf- period to place third. (Mesa Ridge) carried a fered a drought from 113 Stephen Davignon, high win-loss record into through the 132-pound Delta’s 160-pounder, could the tournament and fin- matches and did not have not find the right moves ished the weekend with a any championship-round to subdue Donovan Gonwrestlers. good 18-6 record. zales of Pueblo West and Senior Shaun Staats eventually lost by pinfall Unfortunately for Church, and the Pan- (14-9) wrestled for third at the 2:50 mark. Davithers, Onyx had the bet- place at 138 and was gnon finished the weekter score, 3-1, at the end pinned by Gateway’s Jor- end at 13-8 and Gonzales of regulation time to win dan White (15-5) in the at 13-9. the 285-pound title. The Panthers will host first period. At 106, Luke AnderAt 145, Kole Roberts a triangular meet Thursson has been one of the (16-8) lost, 6-5, to Thun- day, Jan. 21. Eagle Valtop-seeded wrestlers all der Ridge’s Alex Bezugly ley and Rifle will join season long. An individ- (12-7) in the third-place the Panthers on the mat, ual title was not to be match. with action beginning at Delta junior Chance 6 p.m. for Anderson in Alamosa. Delta is on the road Doherty sophomore Zack Dillingham (9-5) faced halftime ahead 24-19. The third quarter Szosiak (12-7) was able to Reis Martinez (15-5) of Saturday for the Rifle opened with an oddity: outlast Anderson in the Alamosa in the third-place Duals beginning early in Galley scored a deuce tournament’s third-place match at 152 pounds. the morning. for the other team. She took an inbounds pass and instead of looking up the court and passing the ball, muscle memory took over and Galley quickly laid the ball in the hoop. The Cowboy’s hoop. “That happened in a game earlier this year, only it happened to the other team,” McPherson said. “The Meeker players didn’t even know. They tried to defend on the play. It happened so fast. It happens in basketball and you just can’t stop it.” Galley recovered nicely when she sank a 3-pointer to give Hotchkiss the lead back at 31-30 midPhoto by Eric Goold way through the third. “Then she came back Zack Allen looks to power his way through a mob of Cowboys during the and made a 3-pointer and Bulldogs’ win last Saturday night in Hotchkiss. made up for it,” McPherson said. “And she had a great fourth quarter.” Anderson sank a 3ball and Hotchkiss led 34-32 going into the final frame. Galley hit back-to-back hoops to tie the score 3838. But Meeker freshman Megan Shelton, who led the visitors with 10 points in the game, answered with consecutive scoring drives of her own. Galley scored another bucket, but the key moment took place with 15 seconds left when Anderson was called for an offensive foul, her fifth. Shelton and Halle Ahrens sank free throws to wrap up the Meeker win. The Bulldogs fell to 2-8 overall and are 1-2 Photo by Wayne Crick in 1A/2A Western Slope Delta senior Keilee Womack signs a letter of intent to play softball at Lamar League action. They Community College. Witnessing the signing, left to right, is assistant softball were on the road at No. 3 coach Jerry Sandoval, head softball coach Steve Reiher, Womack, mother Cedaredge last night. Shawna Bollig and Ashlee Abeyta.

five top-five finishes from 106 to 160 pound classifications on their way to a fifth-place finish. Mills, a senior at Delta High School, elevated his season record to 18-3 with the title match victory, a pin over Pueblo West’s Ryan Stipe (11-9). As a sophomore, Church is one of the top wrestlers in the 285-pound division

Hotchkiss girls finish short against Meeker BY ERIC GOOLD DCI Sports Writer

The Hotchkiss High School girls’ basketball team proved the old adage, “You can learn more from a loss than a win,” against Meeker last Saturday evening. The Bulldogs led after the second and third quarters but succumbed to foul trouble and cold shooting in the end as Meeker prevailed 44-40. Despite the outcome on the scoreboard, the Bulldogs left the floor with confidence after showing signs that they are starting to come together as a team. “It was the best they’ve played this year,” Hotchkiss coach Ginger McPherson said. “They started playing like a team. We found some chemistry.” Bulldogs senior guard Mae Anderson continued her strong season and led all scorers in the contest with 15 points. Fellow senior Sam Galley threw in 11 for Hotchkiss. Andi Todd netted four points in the loss and both Carson Collins

and Kenley Derby scored three for the Bulldogs. Chase Bizer and Alondra Gallegos each had a bucket for Hotchkiss. “Everybody had a really good game,” McPherson said. “We see the points but we don’t remember who made that pass or who had the assist or who set the screen or who sealed for who. This was the first time that we’ve played as a team and had that chemistry that gets things going and happening.” Both teams missed a lot of shots and started slowly in the first quarter, which saw Meeker take an 11-8 lead. Then the Bulldogs roared back in the second. Anderson hit a 3-pointer to tie the game, then fellow senior Gallegos sank a shot to give Hotchkiss the lead. Anderson hit another trey and the Bulldogs led 17-11. Anderson picked up her third foul with more than half the quarter remaining and she had to sit. But the Hotchkiss bench responded and the home team went into

Photo by Eric Goold

Bulldogs senior Sam Galley posts up against Meeker’s Jenna Walsh as Peyton Burke (14) looks on during game action last Saturday evening in Hotchkiss.

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HHS boys CONTINUED FROM B7 using their height advantages and exploiting the smaller Cowboys. Oxford led all scorers with 22 points and Allen threw in 19 to pace the Bulldogs. “It just kind of happened that way,” Allen said. “He’s an all star player. He’s great when he’s on. And then having me down there, not many people have size that can match up against that.” Darrin Young and Gabe Rodriguez each netted five points in the win for Hotchkiss. Sam

Rodriguez had four points and both Eli Kirk and Jonathan Gonzalez had a bucket for the winners. Hotchkiss came out ready to play and surged to a 17-8 lead after the first quarter. But the gritty Cowboys recovered and the Bulldogs lead was 2523 at halftime. Meeker sophomore Logan Hughes, who led the visitors with 18 points, had consecutive baskets at the end of the third frame and Meeker led 46-42. Allen scored back-toback buckets to open the

fourth quarter and tie the contest. Kirk scored his sole basket of the game and Allen hit another, and the Bulldogs jumped ahead by four. Then the parade to the free-throw line commenced and Hotchkiss sealed the win. Allen threw in three free throws, and Oxford, Gabe Rodriguez and Sam Rodriguez all sank single free throws down the stretch. Zack Dinwiddie’s bucket for Meeker brought them to within 56-53 with 1:03 left, but Gabe Rodriguez scored in transition and Allen’s last free throw provided the final

margin for Hotchkiss. “The key was our lack of turnovers in the second and third quarters,” Allen said. “And then composure throughout the game. A lot of games we’ve had, they’d press us and we’d freak out, but tonight we kept our composure.” The Bulldogs were feeling good with a 2-1 mark in league play going into last night’s game at Cedaredge. “I think now we know how we should play and how we can play,” Allen said. “Hopefully we’re gonna take it to the other teams at this point.”

Photo by Eric Goold

Sam Rodriguez handles the ball against Meeker’s Doak Mantle (12) in the Bulldogs win. Hotchkiss is 2-1 in league play.

SURFACE CREEK January 20, 2016

NEWS

Section

www.deltacountyindependent.com

Candidates are circulating their election petitions BY HANK LOHMEYER Staff Writer

As of the weekend, Orchard City reported eight people

Photo by Hank Lohmeyer

Cedaredge was looking for people to ﬁll out its slate of candidates for open town board positions last week.

running for its five open positions for elective office in the April 5 municipal election, and Cedaredge had reported four people circulating nominating petitions for the five open seats there. Nominating petitions are still available at the two town halls. Completed petitions have to be turned back in to the town halls by the end of business on Monday, Jan. 25. Orchard City Town Clerk reported that three people had picked up nominating petitions to run for mayor, and five people had taken out petitions for the four open trustees’ seats. In Cedaredge, town hall reported that two people were circulating petitions as of last Friday for the mayor’s position, and two more had taken out petitions for the three open trustee seats.

Cedaredge, water association headed to arbitration BY HANK LOHMEYER Staff Writer

The Cedaredge Board of Trustees meeting in special session on Jan. 14 authorized the town administrator and Trustee Ray Hanson to participate in a court-ordered arbitration (or mediation) with Upper Surface Creek Domestic Water User’s Association (USC). A dispute between the town and the private domestic water provider has gone in court over the past year. Their differences involve the USC’s claim to 20 percent ownership of the tanks, property (including buildings) spring collection system, and attendant infrastructures of the town’s water collection and treatment system. The ownership claims date back to the time more than a decade ago when the two water providers shared facilities. USC has since constructed its own water treatment facilities to supply its customers in Upper Surface Creek, Cedar Mesa and Redlands Mesa. It was stated at the trustee meeting that the arbitration is not binding, and that if agreement is not reached between the two parties, a judge will decide the matter. In a separate matter discussed at the town board’s session, trustees have extended the deadline to receive “concept plans” for taking over

management and operations of the restaurant facilities at the Cedaredge Golf Course clubhouse. During a discussion of the now-shuttered restaurant, trustees also said they wanted to investigate whether obtaining some professional help in “marketing” the property to prospective operators would help. Trustees discussed possibly trying to market the restaurant management/operation in a “wider area” including other parts of the state. In the course of their deliberations, trustees also heard anecdotal reports from the course superintendant about other courses in the area that have had unprofitable experiences trying to use municipal staff or golf course personnel to run a food service operations. It was noted that Tiara Rado in Grand Junction seems to have a successful restaurant operation. But then it was also noted that the Grand Junction course has a much larger population base close by to support it. The new deadline discussed will be Feb. 11 when the trustees have their next scheduled work session and will be able to review any profit-making ideas or moneymaking “concept plans” that people may have brought forward by that time.

Photo by Hank Lohmeyer

Winter scene

A view of Hart’s Basin and Fruitgrowers Reservoir looking beyond to Antelope Hill and the San Juan range presents a picture of the frigid weather that since Christmas has settled over Surface Creek Valley.

CML head visits with Orchard City trustees BY HANK LOHMEYER Staff Writer

The Orchard City Town Board and the top administrative official from Colorado Municipal League met in public on Jan. 13 in a bid to mend fences. A disagreement with how the CML is using annual member dues had led the trustees to consider withdrawing from the organization which provides educational resources to and lobbies for the municipalities of Colorado. Trustees were especially critical of a mailing endorsed by the CML which offered advice about municipal infrastructure spending priorities based on effects of “climate change.” When CML director Sam Mamet got word of the town’s reaction to the mailing, he scheduled a trip to the Western Slope for a presentation to the town board and discussion of issues. Mamet began his presentation with a short review of CML’s activities on behalf of towns. He mentioned the Colorado Water Plan project. Mayor Don Suppes told Mamet that the state and federal gov-

ernments are using the plan process “to beat us over the heads with” and “for dictating unfunded mandates.” Mamet replied, “I appreciate that. I agree with you completely.” He then apologized to the trustees for the mailing on climate change, saying, “I accept responsibility for that. It happened on my watch.” Discussion continued on water issues. Suppes noted the town’s unhappiness with how Front Range cities admit they are after Western Slope water via new transmountain diversions in the Colorado Water Plan. “What is the CML doing [about that]?” Suppes asked. The CML’s position, Mamet replied, is that “In any of the conversations that evolve [from the plan], all of the communities impacted have to be at the table. We will take each bill that comes and make sure the people impacted know about it.” Suppes wasn’t finished with the issue of water — a topic always uppermost in the minds of Orchard City officials. He told Mamet that,

“CDPHE (the Colorado health department) is a key player in this. They aren’t making life any easier for anyone.” Suppes explained to the Delta County Independent following the meeting that the CDPHE has promulgated regulations that are preventing the use of “gray water” by the big, Front Range cities. Expanding the approved safe uses for gray water could decrease the amount of water from the Western Slope that the Front Range wants to tap via new transmountain diversion projects, he explained. Trustee Beverly Moore asked for specifics of how the CML is working to help smaller communities. In reply, Mamet explained there are three aspects to the CML’s program. They are advocacy on legislative issues; training for elected officials; and information services. Orchard City’s town administrator had previously noted that the CML provides some counseling on legal matters to dues-paying member governments as part of their annual dues assessments. CML HEAD TO C2

Valley lifestyle is about its people BY HANK LOHMEYER Staff Writer

Nelson and Marilyn Cederberg will both miss the same thing about the Surface Creek Valley lifestyle when they move to Florida soon. They will most of all miss the people here — the neighbors and friends they have made over 10 years of sharing their lives and being an active part of community in Surface Creek Valley. Lifestyles for the Cederbergs’ neighbors and friends will change as well when the active and popular couple head south for sunnier and warmer climes soon. Their neighbors hosted a big going away event for the couple at the Stolte Shed last Thursday, Jan. 14. The emotion of the crowd was perhaps best stated by the poster that had been put on display for the evening: “Marilyn and Nelson, We Will Miss You Every Day. Your Friends.” The event hosted by their friends probably says as much about the kind of lifestyle they have experienced and contributed to as anything else. “They really treated us like royalty,” Nelson said following the event.

Photo by Hank Lohmeyer

Nelson and Marilyn Cedarberg were guests of honor at a celebration of friends and neighbors held at the Stolte Shed last week. One of their friends attending the going away party said, “What great neighbors. Just great people.” The Cederbergs have hosted open-invitation bocce ball games for friends and neighbors at their home on Wednesday nights during the summer months. Another of their friends

— among the dozens attending the event — said, “They have touched every corner of the community.” Marilyn was active in the local Zeta Omicron chapter of Epsilon Sigma Alpha sorority and a number of her sorority sisters and their husbands attended the event. There were Pioneer Town volun-

teers who had worked tirelessly alongside Nelson on the weekly work days and special projects for the community museum. Another friend said, “They have to come back for the Halloween party.” The Cederbergs also hosted an annual Halloween party at their home. Nelson told the Delta County Independent that one of the great things about the Surface Creek Valley lifestyle is that “Everybody here understands everyone else.” In addition to the people, Nelson also said there are two other things that make the valley’s lifestyle special. One is that “Religion is extremely important in life, and there are 12 churches in this little town.” Nelson and Marilyn both played in the bell choir at the Eckert Presbyterian Church and Nelson served on the church session. The other special quality about the area, Nelson noted, is that, “This is one of the most patriotic areas in the country.” He was active in and served as adjutant for the local Cobbett-Welty American Legion Post #104. Nelson and Marilyn’s 10-

year residence in the valley also saw them participating in a number of other activities and service roles showing that the valley’s lifestyle provides ample opportunity for community service. Those include participating in a wine tasting club; serving as vice-president of the Surface Creek Valley Historical Society; a member of the Cedaredge Public Library Foundation Board of Directors; supporting Friends of the Cedaredge Public Library; and, service on the Surface Creek Community Services food bank board of directors. Nelson was even elected to the Cedaredge Town Board. When there was volunteer work to be done at Pioneer Town, he was always available, whether to pilot the riding lawn mower around, cutting grass on Wednesdays, rooting out a mouse nest from a building, or making another building secure against crawly things, said a fellow volunteer. With the tables full of homemade finger foods, a toast to the couple, plenty of friends and neighbors, and calls for a speech, Nelson said, “It got a little bit emotional.”

C2 Wednesday, January 20, 2016

SURFACE CREEK NEWS

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

Have you made any New Year’s resolutions for 2016? How is that going for you? Have you ever completed all your resolutions? To avoid embarrassing failure I just resolve to do better than last year.

So how does this all pertain to gardening? Well the process of resolutions is to look back through the years and see what mistakes were made and what was not accomplished and to do better this year. Let’s look at what we should be doing right now in our gardens in the dead of winter.

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I don’t know about you but I still have plenty of snow on the ground so my outdoor gardening is pretty much curtailed at the moment. But there is still a lot to do. First, make plans for what you need and want to accomplish in your garden this year. This may be thinning out overgrown plants, adding new plants, putting in an irrigation system, pruning those wild growing shrubs, being more aggressive in combating weeds and other garden pests. Well, you get the picture. I would prioritize my list so that the most pressing ones get done. But what can you do right now or in the next few weeks to come? How about going out and putting flagging tape on those branches you deem must be removed for esthetic reasons or for just plain being able to walk underneath without poking out your eye. Yes, you can prune them off now but many of us want to wait until it gets a little warmer. What about improving your gardening knowledge by reading a good book. Your library may have one or two or could interlibrary loan you one. Go to your local bookstore or go online for some ideas. Speaking of being online, how about perusing available YouTube videos? I am sure there are lots of those that might be of interest. And of course there are always the CSU gardening sites. You also might have an opportunity to attend an all-day (six-hour) class on some specific gardening topic in Grand Junction. For the first time ever, Colorado State University Extension is offering limited opportunities for you to attend one of the master gardener apprentice course classes going on right now. There will be a limit of six individuals for each class and the cost is $60. By the time you read this the first two classes will have already gone by and the planting and care of trees and woody plants class is full. But you might be able to sign up for classes on irrigation management; soils, fertilizers and soil amendments; integrated pest and weed management; entomology (insects); turf management; plant

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Delta County Independent

CML head

diseases; small fruit and fruit trees; or water-wise design and native plants. These are all classes that master gardeners must take to become knowledgeable and proficient in answering homeowner questions. If you are interested please call Susan Honea at 970-2441834. There is one more gardening chore that you need to do this winter. Water your trees and large shrubs at least once, twice would be better in the next 2-3 months. This is especially needed for evergreens such as spruce and pine trees. These trees especially struggle for lack of moisture during the winter but don’t show problems until the spring. Until we next talk, enjoy your time indoors but make productive use of this time. Better planning, better knowledge lead to better and more enjoyable gardens. Jim Leser retired to Cedaredge in 2007 after a career with Texas A&M University Extension in entomology. He is a member of the Cedaredge Tree Board and a Colorado Master Gardener.

FROM PAGE C1 It was then Trustee Craig Fuller’s turn to address his concerns. He thanked Mamet “for coming to the meeting and for being transparent and available.” He added, “It [the global warming view] was presented so onesided, as matter-of-fact.” The mail piece advised towns to base their infrastructure spending on global warming, and then it admitted that it is not known what, if any, specific impacts from global warming will be, Fuller said. Fuller said he himself has long been an advo-

cate of climate change “even going back to the days when it was known as summer, spring, winter and fall.” After learning in December that Mamet had scheduled his trip to the town, trustees directed town staff to withhold Orchard City’s $1,292 annual dues payment for 2016 until they heard what he had to say. Trustees took no action at the meeting to release the dues payment, and Fuller noted, “We haven’t paid our dues yet.” Mamet concluded his presentation saying, “We don’t want to lose you.”

Tai Chi classes will help improve balance Tai Chi “Moving For Better Balance” is an evidence-based fall prevention class designed for people with balance issues that begins in January in Cedaredge. Instructors are Linda Bull and Brooke 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 build-

ing rental. Classes begin Monday, Jan. 25, and run from 9:30 to 10:30 a.m. at the Stolte Shed, Pioneer Town, Cedaredge. 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.

Bear Den for December

Students at Cedaredge Elementary School are nominated each month by their teachers to be included in the Bear Den. The different characteristics which can earn recognition are Perseverance (P), Respect (R), Integrity (I), Duty (D) and Excellence (E). December’s Bear Den students are: kindergartners Rachele Olson and Jakoby Koehn from Ms. Barton’s class; Rachel Young and Daniel Chavez from Mrs. Tanner’s class; and Makaelah Carmack and Linnea Purvis from Mrs. Parsons’ class; first-graders Kiera Stahley and Corban Richardson from Ms. Belger’s class; Corbin Frost and Kylie Bunker from Mrs. Campbell’s class; and Nathan Young and Sophey Sakala from Mrs. Rienks’ class; second-graders Jesse Croker and Isaak Kuzov from Miss Benson’s class; Jared Roberts from Mrs. Hawkins’ class; and Elisha Ostrom and Colie Kelleher from Ms. Winemiller’s class; third-graders Taylor Purdy and Jamee Barnard from Mrs. Hoerr’s class; Mary Locke and Bradley Young from Mrs. Fuller’s class; and Jade Fast and Jesus Jauregui from Mrs. Lampton’s class; fourth-graders Ashley Valenzuela and Krystal Saenz from Ms. Berger’s class; Aaron Neustel and Lillie Andrews from Mrs. Cox’s class; and Emmaleah Rains and Makayla Weldon from Mr. Stanfield’s class; and fifth-graders Seth Phillips and Jocelyn Rivera from Mrs. Whitney’s class; Faith Morrow and Tommy Stallings from Mr. Henderson’s class; and Niki McKinney and Lexee Belveal from Mr. Thompson’s class.

4TH ANNUAL ICE FISHING CONTEST Presented by Cedaredge Area Chamber of Commerce at Island Lake 16 miles north of Cedaredge on Hwy 65

Saturday February 6, 2016 9:00am-3:00pm

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Photo submitted

Cedaredgechamber.com

Download registration on Chamber website or $30.00 on-site

BRUIN TRACKS

Delta County Independent

Wednesday, January 20, 2016

C EDAREDGE HIGH SCHOOL

575 Southeast Deer Creek Drive

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970 856 6882

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chs.deltaschools.com

WHAT’S BRUIN INSIDE

Sierra Baldozier, a senior on the team, drives to the basket and successfully scores for the Bruins. The team won against Meeker.

Freshman Courtney Freeman takes the ball down the court in the varsity game with hopes of scoring a basket.

Peter Carlson, a sophomore, rushes down the court and outstrides his opposition as he scores a basket against the Cowboys. Craig Claunch dribbles down the court while Jared Reynolds follows close behind.

Continued The Success Boys By: Brittany Chlarson Staff Writer These girls are on fire! The girls’ basketball team at Cedaredge High School has flourished and continues to grow in enthusiasm with every win. On game days, the stands fill with students, parents, and other community members dressed in blue to watch the girls win. Dedicated fans have not been let down as the team holds first place in league with an 8-0 winning streak. Currently, the girls hold 3rd place in the 2A State line up and will likely head for the state basketball tournament in March. The girls have had to work extremely hard to arrive at the top. Everyday they spend two hours in the gym perfecting layups, practicing free throws, running offensive plays, and learning how to break presses. Nellie Freeman, a starter on varsity, says, “Coach Hilbig makes us work on defense the most; we want to be known for having a strong defense.” The girls will continue to improve throughout the season. They are not, however, just working on the basketball aspect. The team strives to have good relationships with each other to help push them closer to a state win. Sophomore Grace Andrews states, “I love that we have a deeper relationship than teammates; we are family. This helps us stay intense, have fun, and run our defense effectively.” It’s no wonder why they break down the team with “Bramily,” a mixture of family and Bruins. This year’s girls’ basketball team is a force to be reckoned with. They will dominate the season, and they will do it with smiles on their faces.

Are Back

By: Jacob Lewis Staff Writer Saying that the boys’ basketball team has started the season strong would be an understatement. They began the league season by beating Meeker and Rangley, landing them at the top of the league. Senior Garrett Meyers chalks this early success up to hard work during practice and having the ability to play as a team. Garrett hopes that with productive practices, and the reliability of everyone showing up to practices without excuses, the team will have a winning record, and have a shot at competing in regional games. The team has put in hard work, and it’s ﬁnally paying off. Players have the mindset in practice to get work done with workouts, drills, individual work, free throws, and of course conditioning. Freshman Jared Reynolds agrees that the practices are difﬁcult, but extremely productive. The suicides, free throws, mock games, and drills, all of which create the perfect situation for success, are a mainstay of the men’s daily practices. Great results are expected from Cedaredge Bruin basketball this season.

AP CARTOON OF THE MONTH

Created By: Angela Saenz

Bruin Basketball defeats Cap Rock: Girls 62-14, Boys 41-33. They also defeated Plateau Valley last Friday. Band and Choir prepare for the All District Concerts on February 1st and 3rd at Delta Middle School. AP Mock exams begin on the 19th, scaring students into studying. Wrestling celebrates winning against Coal Ridge 48-24 and winning the Salida tournament. FFA participated in stock show in Denver last week. NHS keeps busy with the constant snowfall. School Whiteout: All Cedaredge Supporters who wear white to the Friday game get in 1/2 price. Sadie Hawkins Dance takes place on Saturday, the 23rd, 8-11. Cost is $5 for singles and $8 for couples. Spirit week kicks off Monday the 18th with PJ day, Twin day, Wacky Wednesday, X-games day, and White-out day on Friday to prepare the school for competetive basketball games. Winter sports begin to think of end-of-season competitions and prepare accordingly. Pre-season track workouts are being held after school at the high school. Baseball started meeting to gear up for the next season. Home Basketball game on Tuesday against Hotchkiss.

C4 Wednesday, January 20, 2016

BRUIN TRACKS

Students CHS Band Continues High

Delta County Independent

Bruins Cedaredge High School

Achievements

By: Samantha Ribbens Staff Writer

The award winning Cedaredge High School Band played in both the Delta and Cedaredge annual parade of lights. They did a fantastic job and boosted holiday spirit for all who attended. Now, they progress to another honor. Throughout Delta County School District, all the bands are joining together to perform a concert at the Delta Middle School. Over 100 students will make up this band. Most of these band members regularly play in groups of thirty members, making this event very exciting for all students involved. Although Niala Stair, a saxophone player, enjoys participating in a smaller band where friendships thrive, she looks forward to a different experience. She excitedly stated that she was most excited to play in a larger band with people she doesn’t typically play with. The concert will take place on February 3rd at 6 pm.The choir will be holding a similar event on February ﬁrst. The community is invited to join them and support choirs and bands across the district for a small fee of $5.

The Cedaredge High School Band performs at the park; they have experienced a large amount of success throughout the year and are all excited for the upcoming event.

Afterschool Clubs NHS: Serving the Community Driveway by Driveway By: Niala Stair Staff Writer National Honor Society is an organization formed in order to honor students who have shown incredible work ethic, involvement, and responsibility. Kerry Ribbens, a member of NHS said, “My purpose in NHS is to be a better citizen and contribute to my community in a positive way.” In order to get into NHS you must obtain a 3.5 GPA or higher, and have contributed to the school environment or community. NHS is also very rewarding. Daniel Roberts, a junior in the NHS program said, “A reward to being in National Honors Society is that is looked well upon by colleges and jobs.” Kerry Ribbens also stated, “I enjoy the fact that I am able to help others, and not necessarily get attention, but for the feeling that I am helping to better the community in some way.” NHS is a very rewarding, beneﬁcial, and fulﬁlling program led by Mrs. Milburn.

NHS Members:

Do not forget to shovel! If you are not sure where your house is or who’s in your group, go ask Ms. Milburn and she will let you know!

Lydia Knutson pushes snow off the driveway of a homeowner on the golf course.

Kenzie Henderson avidly shovels snow last Friday with hopes of helping a citizen in need.

Mckenzie Moore moves the snow off of a sidewalk at the house she shovels for.

GSA: Open to All Students to Share Ideas

By: Brooke Toothaker Staff Writer The GSA in Cedaredge High School is run by Ms. Gross, the band and choir teacher. Every other Friday or so, the group meets in the band room. Says Ms. Gross, “The GSA meets every other Friday from 3:40 to around 4:15. We talk about gender roles, gender identities, and challenges associated with the LGBTQ+ community in today’s world. GSA is open to all students who have interest in exploring these topics. We hope to see you there!” Mr. Gates discusses leadership and how to become a better leader; many students have found his advice invaluable.

Student Leadership Meetings

By: Lydia Knutson Editor-in-Chief Cedaredge has had the incredible opportunity to take advantage of Mr. Gates’ experience and knowledge. Nearly every week ﬁrst semester, he held a meeting Wednesday morning about how to become a better leader and make a positive impact in the world. Many students took part in the meetings and had strong reactions to such an important program. Kenzie Henderson, a senior, learned a huge amount. “The meetings have been invaluable in my development as a leader and have really helped me, especially in my athletic captain position.” Generally, Mr. Gates starts the meetings at 7:15 with watching a video that recapped the past sessions. He then discusses the new topic and has an interactive conversation with all in attendance. His genuine desire to help students has an extremely positive effect. Although the leadership meetings are now over for this year, they will likely start up again next year. For anybody trying to improve their leadership or teamwork skills, among other valuable life skills, the meetings should be put on the calendar. Mr. Gates’ generosity and allotment of time has allowed a group of students an opportunity that assists in their development as leaders with an excellent skill set.

*These Afterschool Clubs requested coverage in our newspaper. If there are other clubs or groups, we apologize for not including you.

BRUIN TRACKS

Delta County Independent

School

Wednesday, January 20, 2016

Bruins

Rocky

Restart:

The Bruins Suffer a Tough Loss but Seamlessly Recover

By: Jared Hulteen Staff Writer The halfway point of wrestling season has arrived. The Bruin wrestling program is back in gear and driving hard. To kick off the return, Cedaredge participated in two events the ﬁrst week back. The Bruins traveled to Paonia to duel the Eagles and came back roughed up. Cedaredge left the dual losing 60-18 with only two wins and one bye. After the beating in Paonia, Coach Garrison gave Bruin Wrestlers two choices. They either could let the loss control the rest of the season or they could come back the next day at the Indian Invitational and “actually show up and show our moves.” The Bruins took the second option and came back the next day with something to prove. Cedaredge placed Alex McCracken (4th) at 113, Tristan Waddell (4th) at 152, Zach Anderson (3rd) at 170, Landon Eckhart (4th) at 182, Tre’ Labbossiere (3rd) at 195, Mario Madeleno (1st) at 285, and placed 4th

Mario Madeleno gets his hand raised at the intraquad dual to determine Bruin Varsity.

overall as a team. The following week the Bruins particpated at a tournament in Salida. The Bruins stepped up and placed nearly every one of the wrestlers and won the tournament. The Bruins 138 pound wrestler, Colton Hoerr, stated, “The varsity has done pretty good at the last few tournaments, taking 5th at the Delta Invitational and 4th at Montrose Invitational. We have worked hard in practice with JV pushing varsity and varsity pushing varsity. There has been much hard work and dedication day in and day out.” “It’s all preseason to me.” Coach Garrison always embeds this perspective into his wrestlers minds. “We are doing better than past seasons, but we need to build our conﬁdence then we can beat anybody,” Zach Anderson of the Bruins commented. Although the loss to Paonia hurt the Bruins, they are all looking forward to the regional and state competition in order to achieve team goals the wrestling program has set.

Zach Anderson talks to the ref while he gets his hand raised at a wrestling dual.

At the Coal Ridge dual, Tre’ Labossiere stares down his oppenent, striking fear into his soul.

Sink or Swim:Two Cedaredge Swimmers Stand Out on County-Wide Swim Team

By: Megan Huggett Staff Writer Oliva McCrackin and Megan Huggett are Cedaredge High School athletes who are apart of the Delta County Swim Team. They are progressing through the season with Olivia McCrackin placing first in her 100 backstroke at the Montrose meet, and Megan Huggett placing first in her 100 breaststroke at the Gunnison meet last Friday. Overall, these two students have strived for success and have succeeded. The average amount of time Olivia and Megan have cut off this season amounts to an impressive 10 seconds! Swimming is a huge time commitment, due to the fact that it is located in Delta and the swimmers are responsible for their own transportation. Both Megan and Olivia show their dedication for the sport through the long drives and completion of the difficult practices. Megan Huggett practices her flip turn as she comes into the wall. The all-county swim team poses for their team picture.

Megan Huggett and Olivia McCrackin, left and right respectively, have performed exceedingly well this season and continue to be highly motivated.

C6 Wednesday, January 20, 2016

BRUIN TRACKS

School

Delta County Independent

Bruins

Upcoming Sadie Hawkins Dance

In the Midst of School Spirit Week

By: Dylon Gartman Staff Writer

The school spirit week, occurring this week from January 18th to

sists of an informal tradition in which female students invite male

the January 22nd, will precede the exciting dance. The week has themed dress up days every day, and students are encouraged to participate enthusiastically. The themed dress up days are composed of PJ Monday, Twin Tuesday, Wacky Wednesday, X-games Thursday,

comic strip character Sadie Hawkins. In the comic, women chased men to marry them! Obviously that will not be done here, but this is close enough. Often, the female students attempt to dream up creative, cute ideas to ask their fellow classmates to the dance. Anything from posters to balloons to food is fair game.

$5 per person and $8 for a couple from 8pm-11pm.

Attention all girls! The classic tradition of a guy asking a girl to a dance does not apply here! The Sadie Hawkins dance usually constudents to the dance. This tradition originated from the L’il Abner

and White-out Friday. Additionally. White-out Friday is in support of the basketball game. Students who wear white, or at least a white T-shirt, will be granted admission to the game for half price. Additionally, any Cedaredge supporter who wears white will also have a half price ticket. The dance will be held January 23rd. The prices are

CHS Tutors Offer Helping Hand to Students Who Ask for Help

McKenzie Moore offers some of her knowledge to young freshman Jared Comfort.

Kenzie Henderson stays after class to

help fellow student Krystal Davis study AP Language.

By: Max Moore Staff Writer

The students at Cedaredge High School begin the second semester with straight A’s. These grades stay the same for some students, but others struggle to understand the concepts of some subjects. Thankfully, many AP upperclassmen agreed to tutor and to mentor students in need of help.

The mentors specialize in many ﬁelds of study, including math, science, language arts, and social studies. Angela Saenz, senior, focuses primarily on mathematics. “More students than you would expect need help in one or more curricular classes,” she states. Tutoring takes place during ICAP in the tutor’s homeroom. Teachers assign students to tutors when they ask for additional help.

Tyler Curtis and Sierra Baldozier both

study an English book in order to help other students comprehend the material.

The teachers and tutors encourage students to sign up for aid now as tutors’ availability is limited. “The year will end soon, so might as well start now.” Mentoring also teaches the tutors a thing or two as well. This experience taught Mckenzie Moore, senior, to open her mind and accept

different points of view. Tutoring connects people and strengthens bonds between upper and lower classmen. Angela agrees,”Tutoring has taught me that you have more to give to your school than you

think.” Many look forward to the new tutoring system as an intuitive way to increase their GPA. If you are a student who is looking for tutoring in a speciﬁc subject or in general, be sure to stop by the ofﬁce to ask about the program. It is much easier to maintain grades than to raise them. Don’t be sorry tomorrow, be smart today!

Seniors ... Please make sure you turn in historical pictures for the end of the year slideshow.

The pictures add nostalgia to the slideshow, and it would not be the same otherwise. BRUIN TRACKS Editor-in-Chief Lydia Knutson

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

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

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

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

SURFACE CREEK NEWS

Delta County Independent

Wednesday, January 20, 2016

Plants of the Western Slope A look at local flora with Evelyn Horn Poinsettia I am weary of winter and it’s only the middle of January! I could see the Grand Mesa yesterday but this morning it’s only a mass-mess of clouds. But happily, I do have some cheerful plants here inside our house. In all of those Nevada years, I never even thought of houseplants — but then was then and now is now, complete with winter weather. The last time we went into Delta, I saw a pink poinsettia in Safeway. It’s sitting where I often have had amaryllis and Paper Whites. The plant seems happy enough and I’m enjoying the change. As is often the case, “What you see is NOT what you get.” For this beautiful plant is a member of the Spurge family (Euphorbiaceae) known for its milky sap and a reputation of being

Poinsettia poisonous. The literature often mentions a situation in Hawaii when a child’s death was attributed to this plant (it turned out to be a false diagnosis). So although the Poinsettia has a reputation of being poisonous, it’s perfectly safe. But I’d rather admire it than eat it anyway! During the Middle Ages, the plant’s milky sap was used to treat fevers, the bracts (what we see as “petals”) yielded a red dye, and the botanical name, Euphorbia pulcherrima, was given to the plant by a

CHS senior is honored student BY HANK LOHMEYER

DCI Intern

Throughout the school year, Delta County schools occasionally release students from classes three hours early. Students usually take the bus or drive home to use the time for homework or relaxation. However, teachers remain at the school for the afterhours to attend meetings with other teachers from the district. They discuss various issues and attend mini-seminars. “It gives me a chance to visit with teachers throughout the district who teach in the same content areas. When you’re the only teacher in the building who teaches a certain class, it’s very beneficial to visit with other teachers and discuss how the con-

PEOPLE IN THE NEWS

Thanks for the help

The Cedaredge Chamber of Commerce says “thank you!” to CHS students for their help during the holidays with decorating the chamber ofﬁce, and then taking the lights down. Pictured are football team members Shawn Badding, Ty Grant, Dylon Gartman, Pedro Madaleno and Sawyer Carey as they work to put lights up.

Drawing by E. Horn

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Brittany Chlarson duties at Pioneer Town, at the Surface Creek Animal Shelter, at the Hospice Store, and at the annual Stars and Stripes Military Ball.

Early release days used for planning, sleep, catching up BY McKENZIE MOORE

it’s 1-16th inch. It contains one stamen and one pistil, thereby making it a single flower! What we see as petals are leaves surrounding a number of cyanthia. And all of this mimics a single, glorious blossom. The cyanthia of my pink poinsettia are so small that I have to use my magnifying glass to see them!

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Staff Writer

Orchard City’s student of the month for January is Brittany Chlarson, a senior at Cedaredge High School. Brittany has attained a 4.02 grade-point average. Her numerous academic awards include membership in National Honor Society. She is a three-year member of her school’s Future Farmers of America chapter, and she has participated in volleyball, basketball and student council. Her community service volunteer projects include helping with

German botanist with pulcherrima meaning “very beautiful.” Joel Poinsett, the first United States ambassador to Mexico, took cuttings back to North Carolina and thus introduced the plant to this country where it quickly became popular. The historian and horticulturist William Prescott had written a book which included Poinsett’s discovery of the plant and he chose to give it a common name in honor of Poinsett. For me, the most interesting aspect is the small structure termed the “cyanthium” that is unique to the Spurge family, and in this case

tent of that area is progressing,” Michelle Gillis, an AP language arts teacher at Cedaredge High School, explains. AP teachers especially value the extra planning time, as the fast-paced AP curriculum leaves little time for discussion. For the upcoming early release day, teachers plan to gather in small seminars for each area of study. Cedaredge High Schoool principal Randy Brown discusses the benefit of early release days. “We’re currently implementing a new curriculum, and when we get together at a district level, it’s a good way to refine that curriculum and improve the product.” Meanwhile, students enjoy a little extra time off. Athletes can get ahead on their homework and overcome their busy practice schedules. Other students use the time to go sledding on the Grand Mesa or drive to a restaurant with friends. Most students, however, use the time to catch up on sleep and recover from another month of hard work. Lydia Knutson explains how she uses the extra three hours to stay on top of her schoolwork during tight athletic seasons. “I usually go home to finish some homework, but then drive to swim practice like usual.” The next early release day will occur Wednesday, Jan. 20, across the district, a blessing for both students and teachers.

U.S. Air Force Airman Andrew Ness graduated from basic military training at Joint Base San Antonio-Lackland, San Antonio, Texas. The airman completed an intensive, eight-week program that included training in military discipline and studies, Air Force core values, physical fitness, and basic warfare principles and skills. Airmen who complete basic training earn four credits toward an associate in applied science degree through the Community College of the Air Force. *** Ness is the son of Mark and Melonie Ness “The aging process has of Cedaredge. you firmly in its grasp if He is a 2015 graduate you never get the urge to of Vision Charter Acad- throw a snowball.” emy. — Doug Larson

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C8 Wednesday, January 20, 2016

AGRICULTURE

Delta County Independent

Wine industry, horticulturists host three-day conference Grape growers, winemakers and farmers from western Colorado and beyond will fill Two Rivers Convention Center in Grand Junction for three days of industry learning and networking from Jan. 19-21. This multi-track, multi-day conference will focus on viticulture, enology and business and marketing. Held in conjunction with

the Western Colorado Horticulture Society, it also offers a horticulture track and a trade show. It is organized by the Western Colorado Horticultural Society (WCHS) and the Colorado Association for Viticulture & Enology (CAVE). It includes an impressive trade show featuring over 50 vendors that will be open to the public for free on Thurs-

Soil conference in Delta Feb. 11-12 The sixth annual Western Slope Soil Health Conference will be held on Feb. 11-12 at the Delta Center for Performing Arts, 822 Grand Avenue in Delta. This conference is designed to educate producers, orchardists, ranchers, government officials and the broad community about ways to increase organic matter and increase the health of our soils by using cover crop, green manure, grazing, composting, entomology and other sustainable practices. Nationally renowned speakers Gabe Brown and Jay Fuhrer will highlight the 2016 conference. The conference will feature a mixture of keynote speakers, 2015 local cover crop date and testing information, as well as breakout sessions. Brown will present “Holistic Regeneration of Our Lands, a Producer’s Prospective.” Fuhrer will present “It’s Not Just Dirt Anymore!” Local experts Katie Alexander and Steve Woodis will discuss the local cover crop results, which will provide details on a number of local producers who utilize cover crops.

Soil health is critical to the future of agricultural production on the Western Slope of Colorado. With a contingent of concerned farmers as well as community groups and government officials, the Western Slope has been able to take soil health education and implement techniques and specifically adjust them for the local area. As pressure on agricultural production increases, soil health practices can insure that the Western Slope’s agricultural needs are met with sustainable production, quality and economic viability. Delta County Economic Development is the fiscal and administrative agent for the Western Slope Soil Health Conference. Understanding that soil is a treasure, DCED, in conjunction with NRCS, and local conservation districts as well as individuals active in the agricultural community have come together to prepare the sixth Annual Western Slope Soil Health Conference. For more information please visit www.westerncoloradosoil health.com or call DCED at 970-874-4992.

day from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. “This is the region’s premiere grape growing and winemaking conference, bringing together top experts in enology, viticulture and business and marketing to Grand Junction every year.” Says Cassidee Shull, CAVE executive director, “We partner with the Western Colorado Horticultural Society, who is able to lay claim to the same regional prestige in all other fruit-based agriculture.” If you are interested in learning more about growing grapes, peaches, apples, hops, cherries or making wine, this conference is for you. Registration begins Tuesday morning at 7:30 a.m. and costs just $45 per person, per day to attend the seminars. To see the full conference schedule, please go to www.WineColorado. org/events/vinco/. About CAVE The Colorado Association for Viticulture and Enology (CAVE) is a member-based association that exists to encourage and support enology and viticulture in Colorado.

CAVE promotes the interests of Colorado grape growers and wineries in legislative and political matters, provides a forum for the exchange of ideas, and disseminates current information pertaining to optimum winemaking and agriculture practices for vineyards in the area. CAVE seeks to establish contacts and relationships with other associations, both regional and statewide, to further development and growth of the industry. Learn more at www. WineColorado.org. About WCHS The Western Colorado Horticultural Society (WCHS) is a memberbased association that exists to encourage and support horticulture on the Western Slope. The WCHS Conference is in its 73rd year and includes a bus tour, sponsorship opportunities, a robust trade show and industry speakers from across the nation. Proceeds from the conference go toward a scholarship fund for students interested in the agricultural field. Learn more at www. ColoradoFruit.org.

Snow job

Photo by Hank Lohmeyer

A snowman percnhed alongside a steep, snowcovered grade on Hamilton Road appears to have been given the job of alerting motorists to the adverse road conditions ahead.

County council 4-H report The January meeting of Delta County 4-H Council was called to order at 7:00 p.m. by Derek Johnson. Pledges were led by Adam Sheldon. Minutes were dispensed. Charley Perkins gave the treasurer’s report. Discussion was held concerning the county fair. The schedule of events stayed the same as last year. For initial swine weigh-in this year the pigs have to be tagged

in. Weighing them will be optional. Initial beef weigh-in will be Feb. 6 from 9 to 11 a.m. Each animal must have bill of sale and brand inspection. Enrollment deadline is Jan. 29. Discussion was held on the cost of camping for fair. Grady, Ellison, Charley and Malykai gave a presentation on the Colorado leadership conference. Discussion was held about the beef roast. The

beef roast will be held March 6. Each 4-H member must sell five tickets, either child or adult. Whoever sells the most tickets will win a prize. Discussion was held about Junior Market Livestock Field Days. Jackie Shea was wondering if Delta County could hold one like Montrose County. Two Delta County 4-H members will be attending the leadership development conference, to be

held in Denver Jan. 2225. Shooting Sports open house planning will be part of the discipline meetings. The next Delta County Council meeting will be March 14, at the Maloney House in Hotchkiss. It will be club officer training. Meeting was adjourned at approximately 7:55 p.m. Trey Hunt Council Reporter

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January 20, 2016

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SYSTEM ENGINEER Delta-Montrose Electric Association is seeking a System Engineer. The System Engineer is responsible for the design, coordination, protection, voltages, load balancing, planning and troubleshooting of the company's electrical system. This position is also responsible for the SCADA and AMR communications systems including all related equipment and the two-way radio system. A Bachelor's degree in Electrical Engineering is required. Must have at least five years of practical work experience in electric utility engineering. Requires experience in managing programs and working collaboratively with others. Professional Engineer License in the State of Colorado preferred. Must maintain a valid Colorado driver's license. DMEA offers a competitive salary and benefits package. To apply, contact the Colorado Workforce Center in Delta or Montrose, Colorado, phone: (970) 249-7783 or (970) 874-5781. Applicants must be registered with the Colorado Workforce Center online through "http:// www.connectingcolorado. com" www.connectingcolorado.com. Application packets are available from the Workforce Center. Applications will be accepted until 5:00 p.m. Wednesday, January 27, 2016. DMEA is an Equal Opportunity Provider and Employer. DMEA is an EOE/ Affirmative Action employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability or veteran status, or any other status protected by law. (3x1)

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Colorado Statewide Classified Advertising Network To place a 25-word COSCAN Network ad in 83 Colorado newspapers for only $350, contact your local newspaper or call SYNC2 Media at 303-571-5117. HELP WANTED - HEALTH CARE EMPLOYMENT Pharmacy Director, southeast FIRE CHIEF Nebraska Critical Access Hospital. SPEARFISH, SD. Requires BS Pharmacy, excellent Responsible for overall organizational, customer service operation of the Fire Department. and planning skills. Experience in EOE. For requirements healthcare pharmacy and details on this position management preferred. Competitive visit our website salary, benefits. Apply at www.cityofspearfish.com www.jchs.us. For information call HR at (402) 729-6850. EMPLOYMENT - DRIVERS MISCELLANEOUS Independent Contractors! Now leasing 3/4 or 1 ton SAWMILLS from only $4397.00truck owners with 2 years MAKE & SAVE MONEY towing experience. with your own bandmill- Cut lumber CDLA or Chauffeur any dimension. In stock ready to license required. ship! FREE Info/DVD: Deliver nationwide. www.NorwoodSawmills.com Call (480)833-4000 Ext2 1-800-578-1363 Ext. 300N SYNC2 MEDIA Buy a 25-word statewide classified line ad in newspapers across the state of Colorado for just $350 per week. Ask about our Frequency Discounts. Contact this newspaper or call SYNC2 Media, 303-571-5117

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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.

FREE DIAPERS FOR UP to one year! Pregnant women in Delta County can now get help to quit smoking and get something they can really use after their baby arrives — free diapers. Healthy moms have healthy babies. Enroll in the Baby & Me Tobacco Free program HOSPITAL VOLUNTEERS today. Contact the Delta Wanted! Delta County County Health Department Memorial Hospital needs at 874-2165 or your local hospital volunteers. Days physician. (TFNx2) and hours are flexible. There are currently openings WELCOME RETURNING in the ER, Oncology, Gift Veterans, Post 9221 VFW Shop and some additional meets at 5:00 p.m. on the areas. If you are interested, 4th Thursday of each month please contact Volunteer in Cedaredge. To find out Coordinator, Joyce Picard how to participate in proat (970) 874-3841 for an moting patriotism and application. (4x27) assisting veterans, contact Wayne Hamrick, (970) 250WOMEN ONLY AA MEET- 1180. (tfnx23) ings, Delta. Wednesdays, 5:00 p.m., closed AARP DRIVER SAFETY (Alcoholics only) at Friends Course. Save on insurance, of Bill W. Club, 897 Palmer. keep up on newer traffic Saturdays, 11:00 a.m., open laws, learn defensive driv(others may attend) at St. ing techniques. For details Luke's Episcopal Church, and schedule contact John 5th & Palmer (back door). Loring (970) 856-6924 or (tfnx3) (970) 424-1778. SUPPORT THE DELTA Public Library. Give a gently used book in the Downstairs Book Store.

IF YOU LOVE BOOKS, you will love the Downstairs Bookstore in the basement of the Delta Public Library.

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HOTCHKISS-CRAWFORD Historical Museum. Winter hours, Saturdays 1-4 p.m. thru December 24. $3 admission or free to members. Come see our museum at 2nd & Hotchkiss Streets in Hotchkiss. 872-3780. (tfx44) CHECK OUT THE BOOK store at the library. You'll find a great selection of paperbacks at reasonable prices. NARCOTICS ANONYmous meets at 9th and Palmer, Delta, Mondays and Fridays at 8 p.m. (tfnx5) BECAWS! DONATIONS needed. Credit cards accepted. Call 970-5273350, or visit cawsonline. org. Delta County Citizens for Animal Welfare and Shelter (CAWS) 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 Jim Baker, Quartermaster. (tfx12) BECAWS! ADOPT A DOG or cat today. Call 970-5273350, or visit cawsonline. org. Delta County Citizens for Animal Welfare and Shelter (CAWS) CHAPTER, UNITS OF DAV regular meetings on the second Monday of each month at 7 p.m. at the Veterans Building, 15th & Howard, Delta. For further information, call Paul Carter 874-5150. (tfx19) ARE YOU NEW TO THE Delta area? Stop by the Delta Area Chamber of Commerce at 301 Main St. for you FREE Welcome Bag, filled with goodies, samples, discounts and community information, courtesy of Chamber members and sponsored by Kim Guthrie-Burch of Re/Max Today. DELTA HAS A BOOKstore in the basement of the library featuring gently used books and magazines. Come check it out!

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YOU HAVE THE POWER TO change a child's life! Children are waiting for senior partners in Delta County right now! Can you spare 3 hours a week? We need your help! Call today for more information. Please volunteer to spend time with a child in our community. Partners of Delta, Montrose and Ouray, 874-4661, www. partners-west.org. or www. deltayouth@montrose.net. (tfx13) PAONIA AMERICAN Legion runs a year round non-perishable emergency food pantry. This is for the North Fork area. For information, call 527-6252. (tfx49)

Delta County Independent

PUBLIC SERVICE

FARM WORKER HEALTH Services: We offer assistance with medical, dental and medicines. If you work in agriculture you may qualify for our services. For more information call 3230538. (tfx12) SERVICIOS DE SALUD De Campesinos: Ofrecemos ayuda con doctores, dentistas, y medicinas. Si trabajas en agricultura puedes calificar para nuestros servicios. Para mas informacion llame al 323-0538. (tfx12)

THINK YOU'RE PREGnant? Abused? Need help? The Pregnancy Resource Center in Delta offers free service, support and advice to all teenagers and women in crisis pregnancy situaSAVE EYEGLASSES, OLD tions. For Christian help, jewelry and silver or bits of anytime, call 874-5733. gold and silver scraps. The Grand Odd Fellow Lodge is YOU CAN QUIT. WE CAN sending them to: New Eyes help. Colorado Tobacco for the Needy, 549 Millburn Quitline offers free, confiAve., Short Hills, NJ 07078 dential assistance. Call 1or send them to: Gale 800-QUIT-NOW. (TFNx28). Conger, Secretary of IOOF FAMILIES BELIEVING Lodge #116, 544 St. Hwy. in families: Tandem 548, Delta, CO 81416. Families is an innovative, THE AMERICAN RED private non-profit mentorCross needs you. Become ing program providing serone of the Red Cross volun- vices for at-risk children of teers who says, “We’ll Be Delta and Mont-rose counThere, Because Help Can’t ties. Anyone interested in Wait!” Call your local Red volunteering their services Cross Chapter at 970-242- or donating usable items 4851 or 1-800-HELP NOW should call 874-3000 or 252for information on the dif- 7445. (TFNx8) ference you can make in THE AMERICAN LEGION someone’s life as a disaster Post 97 Paonia is seeking volunteer. ((TFNx4)) the names and addresses of UNEMPLOYED? JOIN all persons currently servothers for a time of net- ing on active duty in the working, encouragement, military from the North Fork and skill improvement. Valley in order to contact Latent Resources meets them and show our supthe first Thursday of each port. Send addresses to month at 6:30 at the Delta American Legion Post 97, United Methodist Church PO Box 277, Paonia, CO (5th & Meeker). Attendants 81428 or call 527-6552. and visitors are encour- PARENTS FREE! INFORMaged to dress profession- ation and referrals to ally and bring a note pad licensed child care providand a willingness to learn ers, call Bright Futures Child and be challenged. Find us Care Resource and Referral, on facebook.com & twit- 1-877-728-5613. (TFNx4) ter.com - search "Latent Resources", or call James FOSTER GRANDPARENT at 970-901-9463. Program enriches the lives of senior volunteers while HEALTHY BABIES START improving the education of with early prenatal care. children with special needs. Delta County Health Volunteers, 55 and older, Department. Offers access needed to assist in class to immediate, temporary rooms tutoring and mentorMedicaid for pregnant ing children. Low-income women who qualify. 874- volunteers may qualify for 2165. (tfx25) a stipend. Teachers in Delta BECAWS! DISCOUNT area class rooms request spay and neuter coupons "Grandparents" to come available. Call 970-527- in and work with students 3350, or visit cawsonline. who need the extra help to org. Delta County Citizens achieve their best. For inforfor Animal Welfare and mation on how you can use your talents to help kids call Shelter (CAWS) Tanya at 263-9091. (tfx7) YOUR LISTING HERE! ADVERTISE! 874-4421 call now... 874-4421

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SUPPORT THE DELTA Public Library. Give a gently used book in the Downstairs Book Store. PARENTS — FREE information and referrals for licensed child care providers. Call Bright Futures Child Care Resource & Referral at 877-728-5613. (TFNx1) BECAWS! VOLUNTEERS needed. Call 970-527-3350, or visit cawsonline.org. Delta County Citizens for Animal Welfare and Shelter (CAWS) PLEASE HELP! VOLUNteers needed to help get new animal shelter in Delta off the ground. We need temporary or long term foster homes, foot soldiers, light research, paperwork and phone people. Many hands make light work. Thank you! Another Chance Critter Haven. 874-9011. DEDUCT IT FROM YOUR taxes! Donations of: pet food, old blankets, towels, kennels, carriers, pet beds or dishes, and money always appreciated. Another Chance Critter Haven. 8749011. 501 (c) (3) BECAWS! DOG/CAT foster families needed. Call 970-527-3350, or visit cawsonline.org. Delta County Citizens for Animal Welfare and Shelter (CAWS) COLORADO QUITLINE IS a free, confidential telephone coaching service for anyone calling from a Colorado area code. With QuitLine, tobacco users can receive free supplies of the nicotine patch as they work with trained coaches who create a personalized quit plan just for them. To contact the QuitLine, call 1800-QUIT-NOW (1-800-7848669) or visit www.coquitline.org. BECAWS! DO YOU HAVE an animal rescue success story to share? Call 970-527-3350, or email rescuemagazine@gmail. com. Delta County Citizens for Animal Welfare and Shelter (CAWS) ALZHEIMER'S ASSOciation Caregivers' Support Group, Cory/Austin. All Saints Lutheran Church, 20101 Deer Creek Road. Last Wednesday of every month, 1 p.m. BECAWS! SHOP BARKIN' Bargains Thrift Store in Paonia. All proceeds to to CAWS. Call 970-527-5111. Delta County Citizens for Animal Welfare and Shelter (CAWS)

PUBLIC SERVICE THE DELTA COUNTY Democratic Party invites you to visit their Facebook page for announcements, information and intelligent discussion of issues. You are not alone! Contact www.facebook.com/pages/ CO-Delta-County-Democrat s/109082339170167 IF YOU THINK YOU have a drinking problem... Alcoholics Anonymous can help. There are weekly AA meetings throughout the North Fork area and beyond. For meeting times and locations call AA at 970-245-9649 or 888-3339649. Or go to the website www.aa-westerncolorado. org. Alcoholics Anonymous can help! AL-ANON MEETINGS BY day of week. Sunday: Woman's Al-Anon in Montrose 3:30 p.m., All Saints Anglican Church, 2057 S. Townsend, contact Peggy, (970) 9644970. Monday: Al-Anon in Hotchkiss 6:30 p.m., Methodist Church, 285 N. 2nd, contact Kay, (970) 2085257 or Chris, (970) 5273366. Monday: Al-Anon in Montrose 7:00 p.m., First Presbyterian Church, 1840 E. Niagara, contact Diane, (970) 964-4417. Tuesday: Women's Al-Anon in Eckert 1:00 p.m., 13596 Hwy. 65, contact Sandy, (970) 8567348. Tuesday: Al-Anon in Delta 7:30 p.m., St. Luke Episcopal Church, 145 W. 5th St., contact Mark, (970) 874-8965 or Elizabeth, (970) 874-9832. Tuesday: Alateen in Delta 7:30 p.m., St. Luke's Episcopal Church, 145 W. 5th St., contact Elizabeth, (970) 874-9832 or Shirley, (970) 323-5067. Wednesday: Al-Anon in Paonia 7:00 p.m., United Methodist Church, 3rd and Onarga, contact Kay, (970) 208-5257 or Chris, (970) 527-3366. Thursday: Al-Anon in Montrose 12:00 p.m., First Presbyterian Church, 1840 E. Niagara, contact Diane, (970) 9644417. Thursday: Al-Anon in Cedaredge 8 p.m., Wick Hall behind First Baptist Church, 370 W. Main, contact Vicki, (970)589-9290. (tfnx16) HUNGRY? PLEASE JOIN us for a free meal. Tuesdays, 5:30 - 7 p.m., and Saturdays 11:30 a.m. - 1:30 p.m. Served at Westminster Hall, 135 E. 4th St., Delta, across from the post office. No income restrictions - if you're hungry, please feel free to join us. For questions, to donate or to volunteer, please call the Abraham Connection, (970) 773-8290. SIGN UP TODAY FOR a subscription to the DCI!

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D4 Wednesday, January 20, 2016

CHURCH

Delta County Independent

Join the march for life this Saturday All life is precious. You being counted among urday, Jan. 23. Mass Meeker Street in Delta, can join the right for life God’s people during a and prayers begin at St. at 8 a.m. Breakfast will by taking a stand and pro-life gathering Sat- Michael Church, 628 be served at 9:15 a.m., and will include comments from two guest speakers, Dr. Brezinsky and Jennifer Badding. At 11:30 a.m., a march

Women will find hope, encouragement at retreat Divide and conquer. Almost everybody knows what it means. Battle strategists know it; animals of prey know it, and they go after those who are least strong, isolating them from the help of others. There are many things that can isolate us as human beings — conflict, guilt, fear, pain. Too often we think we are the only ones going through the struggles we’re facing. The ladies at Delta

Christian Church would like to encourage any woman who feels isolated, lonely or tired from the battleground of life to find hope and encouragement at a Lavender Springs Spa ladies’ retreat Saturday, Jan. 30, from 9 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. The retreat will be held at the church. The title of the retreat paints a picture of what women can expect to encounter — soothing

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rest and comfort, not from a plant, but from God’s faithfulness. God’s work most often happens in community, so reject isolation and come to the Lavender Springs Spa. Reservations can be made by calling Amber Edwards at 589-3083 or the Delta Christian Church office at 874-4322 by Friday, Jan. 22. The $25 ticket includes retreat materials, continental breakfast and lunch.

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Open house showcases Classical Conversations Classical Conversations invites local politicians, pastors, media and parents to take part in a one-day event showcasing excellence in education. The goal is to demonstrate the benefits of a classical education and to demonstrate solutions for recovering the lost tools of learning.

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PEOPLE IN THE NEWS Mason Oxford of Hotchkiss was named to the Montana State University 2015 fall semester honor roll. The Dean’s Honor Roll includes the students earning grade point averages of 3.5 or above for the semester. Students must complete 12 credit hours to qualify for either list.

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justice is built upon,” said organizer Dan O’Donnell. “Without it the house will crumble and fall.” More information is available by calling 9215266.

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An open house will be held Tuesday, Feb. 2, from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m., at First Baptist Church, 1250 Pioneer Road in Delta. The public is welcome to stop by any time during “Excellence in Education Day.” Food will be provided for everyone over the lunch hour.

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for life will be held along Delta’s Main Street for about an hour. All are welcome to participate — families, teens, youth, singles. “Dignity for life is the foundation that social

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D8 Wednesday, January 20, 2016

BACK PAGE

Delta County Independent

B A C K P A G E

A caring healer

BY ANNETTE BRAND

Photos submitted

A youngster gets to listen to the heartbeat of a rabbit during a ﬁeld trip to Dr. Vincent (right). Little Friends Preschool visits each year to learn about veterinary medicine (below, right).

Staff Writer

orman Vincent knew when he was in third grade that he would become a veterinarian. He lived on a farm with his family. One of their cows had given birth to a calf and the cow could not stand up. His dad called the veterinarian, Dr. Page, who told dad and son that the cow had milk fever. Dr. Page treated the cow and she became able to stand and take care of her calf. Norman said to Dr. Page, “When I get older I’m going to vet school and be like you.” Dr. Page told the young boy some of the things he would face as a veterinarian. “Some of the things Dr. Page told me were about disadvantages of being a veterinarian, but I didn’t care. I still knew I was going to be a veterinarian,” Dr. Vincent said. Norman Vincent grew up in Fruita, graduating from Fruita High School in 1969. His wife Connie was from Hotchkiss, graduating from Hotchkiss High School in 1971. They met in college and married while they were in college. Norman and Connie knew they wanted to come to the North Fork for his veterinary practice. “A small town in western Colorado is a good place to raise kids,” Dr. Vincent said. Norman graduated from Colorado State University Veterinary School in 1979. He worked for a year for veterinarians Dr. Dave Gallob and Dr. Bob Wood in Grand Junction. Both veterinarians had graduated from Paonia High School. Both told Dr. Vincent it was “always a good time to go to the North Fork.” Dr. Vincent established his practice as North Fork Veterinary Clinic 38 years ago. Norman and Connie reared their two children — Vickie Lucille and Andrew Lee — in the North Fork. “Andy lives in Peoria, Ill., and is an emergency room

doctor,” Dr. Vincent said. “Vickie lives in Cañon City, teaches education classes at night at CSU Pueblo and is active with students at CSU Pueblo.” Dr. Vincent says his patients are similar to those of other veterinarians. “I see stock dogs, backyard dogs and some expensive high breed dogs.” He sees cats and other pets. Formerly, he saw large animals, too, but hasn’t for about the last ten years. Dr. Vincent performs a lot of surgeries. “I had a llama patient where I had to do a C-Section. She couldn’t deliver her baby so I had to cut the baby out of the mama. After I reversed the anesthesia on the mama she stood up and started taking care of her baby. “There were some older kids observing surgeries that day,” Dr. Vincent recalled. “Dogs get stones in their bladders and, sometimes with their human companion watching, I cut out the bloodcolored stone.” He tells about Ruby, a three-legged dog. “She had been hit by a car and the hit tore the nerve roots off her left front shoulder. The accident had happened about a week before in Grand Junction. When she came in she had a hernia in

Dr. Vincent and Ruby, the three-legged dog, who received surgery by Dr. Vincent after being hit by a car.

Dr. Vincent, waving to the crowd, during the 4th of July parade in Paonia.

her chest and the shoulder was decomposing. She was toxic. I amputated her leg under the shoulder, kept giving her antibiotics and fluids and in time she recovered,” he said. “I do a lot of surgeries on knee caps because they pop out. The dog will be walking well within two weeks of surgery. “I did the knees on Popis, a chihuahua, yesterday (Jan. 11).” Dr. Vincent spoke about

Popis, a Chihuahua, who had knee surgery on Jan. 11. the nature of surgery. “When I am doing knees or a shoulder, I have to have two or three hours for the surgery. Time is needed to prep for the surgery and sometimes the surgery itself takes a longer time. It’s not something I can just walk about from. “I don’t go home until everything is done, whether it is 6:00 at night or 1:00 in the morning. I still get up in the middle of the night for an emergency. There are some 80-hour weeks. I’m here early, get home late, and work weekends. “But I’m not special. All vets do that,” Dr. Vincent asserted. Asked how he counsels the human companion who brings to him their animal when its life appears to be in danger, he replied, “A lot depends on the problem and what can be done, whether it is shortterm or long-term, whether you can add comfort or can’t add comfort. “We examine our options and what outcome we can expect, whether surgery is an option or whether medications will help. “If you have a Lab dog, whose life span is 12 to 14 years, and treatment will add two more years to its life, you may want to try for those two more years. “But if it is cancer, we can’t be sure of the quality of its life. “Just because you can’t be certain of the outcome doesn’t mean you don’t try,” he said. Dr. Vincent works with the CAWS animal welfare group on a regular basis. “I treat cats with sore

eyes, cats with ear infections, abdominal problems, lots of medical care, lots of surgeries,” he said. “Every other Wednesday CAWS brings two to eight animals in for spay or neuter. “CAWS paid $500.00 for surgery on a dog with a broken leg. “We treated Lincoln, a paralyzed dachshund, applying our laser therapy to his neck and back for a month. And one day he stood up. Sometime later his human companion sent us a picture of Lincoln swimming across a little lake,” he said with a big smile. Dr. Vincent also works with the Humane Society, Cedaredge Animal Control and other welfare animal groups. These groups pay part of the animal veterinary expenses. “I enjoy working with these animal welfare groups and I chip in to help. I try to be as reasonable as I can but I can’t give it all away,” he said. “I became a veterinarian not to be rich but because it is what I wanted to do. If a dog comes in and it can’t walk, or can’t eat, and I can help, that’s what is so exciting.” Dr. Vincent shares his enthusiasm for the veterinary profession with others, too. Paonia High School student Taylor Carsten currently

is doing a work study program with Dr. Vincent. Taylor’s sister completed the same program earlier. North Fork Veterinary Clinic staff member Marta Greer’s daughter wants to be a veterinarian and she observes surgery with Dr. Vincent. For years, students from Little Friends Preschool took an annual field trip to North Fork Veterinary Clinic. Dr. Vincent would show them surgery equipment and put a dog or cat up on the surgery table for the students to look over and ask questions about the animal. “It’s an exciting profession,” Dr. Vincent says, “and it’s always changing. I go back for continuing education classes every year to maintain my license. The classes are held over three to four days with two or three different seminar subjects. I like to listen to other people’s experiences. Someone who has been in the profession for 40 years has a lot to talk about. “And we veterinarians in the area get together to talk about what’s going on.” Dr. Vincent works with a highly committed staff. Christy Middleton has been with him for 10 years; Nancy Middleton about 9-1⁄2 years; and Marta Greer also about 9-1⁄2 years.

In 2013, Dr. Norman Vincent was awarded the State Veterinary Partnership Award for his work in partnership with animal health care providers to expand the support network for homeless and stray animals. From the left are John Martindale (CAWS board member), Dr. Vincent, and technical staff Christy Middleton, Nancy Middleton and Marta Greer.