Delta County Independent, Dec. 13, 2017 by Delta County Independent

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STORYWALK TURNS ONE

PHS grads take the basketball court in support of teammate, B1

CHS students take kids, families on the trail to a tale, C1

DELTA COUNTY

BACK-TO-BACK WIN

Bruins claim team title at Delta Invitational wrestling tourney, B5 DECEMBER 13, 2017 VOL. 134, NO. 50

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Marijuana petition is still being circulated BY PAT SUNDERLAND Managing Editor

The target date for placing a marijuana question on the April ballot has passed, but proponent Christi Prettyman plans to continue gathering signatures into the early part of next year. Prettyman has 180 days to obtain a sufficient number of signatures from registered electors in the City of Delta. That means she can continue gathering signatures through Feb. 21. The petition seeks repeal of the ordinance prohibiting retail marijuana stores, marijuana cultivation facilities, retail marijuana products manufacturing and marijuana testing facilities within the City of Delta. The ordinance has been on the books since 2013. State statute requires signatures from 5 percent of the city’s 5,362 electors, which equals 268. City charter raises the bar to 804, or 15 percent. Prettyman said she’s shooting

for 1,000 signatures, to be on the safe side. After the city clerk has verified the signatures, and a protest period has elapsed, city council will review the petition. If council declines to remove the marijuana ordinance, a special election will be scheduled. To be proactive, Delta Planning Commission and Delta City Council members have been reviewing proposals for the zoning and taxation of marijuana businesses. If either the city council or the voters open the door to marijuana sales, the Delta Planning Commission recommends: • Retail marijuana stores as a use by right in B-1 and B-2 zones. • Retail marijuana stores, retail marijuana products manufacturing and retail marijuana testing facilities as a use by right in B-3 and industrial zones. • Retail marijuana MARIJUANA TO A3

Photo by Pat Sunderland

Santa’s reindeer

Four of Santa’s eight tiny reindeer were spotted at Bill Heddles Recreation Center, tummies full of pancakes after Breakfast with Santa. From left to right are Kellen Rover, Koye Rover, Kaci Teyler-Crowder and Adi Teyler-Crowder.

School district responds to Fisk’s allegations BY PAT SUNDERLAND Managing Editor

Delta County Joint School District #50, and its special counsel, Jon Olafson, have responded to the complaint filed by Cidney Fisk, a 2016 Delta High School graduate. Fisk has filed suit in federal court, accusing DHS teachers, guidance counselors, administrators and school district leadership of retaliation after she spoke out against religious activities during school hours on school property. Fisk claims that when she exercised her right to free speech and religious beliefs, school officials and teachers retaliated by reducing her

grades, depriving her of honors she believed she’d earned, undermining her scholarship and university applications, and creating an unwelcome and hostile environment. As a result, Fisk maintains she suffered extreme emotional and mental harm requiring hospitalization. Named as defendants were the school board, superintendent Caryn Gibson, DHS principal Derek Carlson, counselors Shawna Magtutu and Holly Teyler-Crowder and John Miller, a DHS teacher. On Friday, Dec. 8, Olafson filed a response denying each and every allegation in Fisk’s complaint.

Fisk’s civil action refers to Delta County High School; Olafson responded that there is no such entity. Moreover, Delta High School does not have legal capacity to sue or be sued. Fisk alleges that Delta High School “permits, encourages and supports religious activities.” The defendants admit that DHS permitted a Fel-

DCI STAFF

On Dec. 11, Grand Mesa, Uncompahgre and Gunnison National Forest Supervisor Scott Armentrout signed the Record of Decision (ROD) for Federal Coal Lease Modifications COC-1362 and COC67232. The ROD outlines Armentrout’s decision to consent to the Bureau of Land Management (BLM) modifying two federal coal leases with terms and conditions to protect forest resources. Ark Land, LLC and Mountain Coal Company, LLC requested the modifications to expand their existing coal leases by a total 1,720 acres located near Somerset. Coal mining is a multistaged process involving multiple federal and state agencies. The next step in the process is for the BLM to decide whether or not to modify the

INDEX

Accent ........................... A4 Activities ....................... A9 Back Page ................... D6 Church ..................... A7, C6 Classifieds .................. D1-2 Editorial ......................... A2 Legals ......................... D3-4 North Fork Times ........B1-4 Obituaries ..................... A8 School Zone ............... A5-6 Service Directory ........ D5 Sports ..........................B5-8 Surface Creek News ...C1-5 TV Listings ..................C3-4

leases based on Armentrout’s decision. BLM is also considering whether or not to permit on-lease exploration once the leases are issued as described in the SFEIS which would result in surface-disturbing activities. Armentrout’s decision to modify the leases does not authorize mining or surface disturbing activities. These activities, including actual modification of the leases, mining operations, and onlease exploration, are handled in separate and sequential approval and permitting processes by appropriate state and federal agencies. Armentrout’s decision and the Supplemental Final Environmental Impact Statement can be found online at the project website: https:// www.fs.usda.gov/project/ ?project=32459.

her criticisms about those activities. In her suit, Fisk says she was reprimanded for her “attitude,” as well as outward expressions of her views. Olafson responds to those accusations and numerous others with the blanket statement: “Defendants lack knowledge or information sufficient to 50J RESPONSE TO A3

‘We are listening,’ school district tells high schoolers BY PAT SUNDERLAND Managing Editor

USFS agrees to coal lease expansion

lowship of Christian Athletes club, allowed youth pastors to meet with students at lunch, allowed Gideons to place free Bibles at Delta Middle School in 2015 and 2016, continue to allow a church to use the school cafeteria on Sundays, and other activities outlined in Fisk’s suit, but deny Fisk’s First Amendment rights were violated by retaliation against

“We are listening,” school superintendent Caryn Gibson assured high school students last week, as school board members, district leadership and county planners solicited input from a cross-section of students in Hotchkiss, Paonia, Cedaredge and Delta. This is the third year the school district has conducted listening sessions with students, but the first four individual sessions were held. A fifth takes place this Thursday, with students from the district’s alternative schools. In each school, student leaders led discussions about school/community strengths, concerns, challenges and resources. Pairs of students summarized the school feedback at the Dec. 7 school board meeting; responses to the same questions, but a reflecting county/community perspective, will be presented at the next meeting of the Delta Planning Commission. “The planning commissioners are really excited to hear from you,” said Elyse Casselberry,

Delta County community and economic development director, who said the student feedback will be considered during the Master Plan revision process. For the school district, the student feedback will be considered during a strategic planning session planned in January. Students countywide were generally in agreement that one of the biggest strengths in their schools are caring teachers who want students to achieve their goals. Teachers who share life lessons, build strong relationships and challenge their students academically are much appreciated. In Delta, the students value the proximity of the Technical College of the Rockies, but find it challenging to fit in college courses, and sometimes even electives, into a full course load. Still, they would like to see additional options at the high school, including home ec, life skills, sex education and more ACCESS periods, a portion of the day where they can get help from teachers or conduct student meetings.

Vehicular eluding nets 5 years in prison A wild ride — and a second incident of eluding law enforcement officers — earned Pedro Lopez a five-year prison sentence Monday. Lopez, 30, of Grand Junction was arrested after a twisting trek through Delta on March 19. While law enforcement officers hung back, maintaining visual contact with his vehicle, he sped down 9th Street Hill, barreled under a fence at Delta Middle School and crashed into an irrigation pump house. He emerged from his Ford Taurus with his hands in the air and was taken into custody without incident. He has been held

in the Delta County Jail since his arrest and will receive credit for time served. In Delta District Court, Judge Steven Schultz and Lopez’s two defense attorneys sorted through a sentencing hearing that consolidated the March incident with other felony and misdemeanor cases in Delta and Montrose counties. A total of five cases were folded into the plea agreement, which includes mandatory parole. Deputy district attorney Barb Sanford also requested restitution of $22,908, to cover damage to the fence and replacement of the irrigation pump house.

If money was not an issue, they would like a warmer school cafeteria, an on-site health clinic, updated textbooks, lockers and restrooms, a quiet room for study or relaxation, and additional extracurricular activities, including boys’ volleyball, lacrosse and clubs. They would also like to see more activities outside of school. A bowling alley, indoor soccer field or an arcade would provide an alternative to a current pastime — going to Walmart to walk around. On the plus side, students praised the recreation center, trails, state parks and drivein. If Delta offered more community activities, a broader variety of jobs and more diverse age groups, they said they would be far more likely to return after college — especially when they’re ready to begin raising families. They recognize that Delta is a very safe, supportive community. In response to a question about how the school supports student learning, the high STUDENT MEETINGS TO A3

GOCO announcement

An announcement about The Nature Connection’s GOCO Inspire Grant award will be made at the Backcountry Film Festival at the Paradise Theatre next Monday (see story on page A9). Two years ago, The Nature Connection launched a planning process, utilizing GOCO funding, to determine how to connect youth in Delta County and Olathe to nature through “programs, places and pathways.” The Nature Connection applied for $2.2 million in GOCO Inspire funds to implement its vision, supported by $1.4 million in cash and in-kind contributions from a broad spectrum of coalition partners.

A2 Wednesday, December 13, 2017

OPINION

LETTERS County handled land use issue well Dear Editor: Thank you to the Delta County Commissioners and Planning Department for the amount of time they spent on the public hearings, review of citizen comments and for their careful deliberations on the “change of use” and specific development application submitted by Paonia Holdings LLC. The process

took seven long months, and the Board of County Commissioners reached a decision to deny the application on Dec. 4. Community members from the whole North Fork Valley came together on a common issue to ask that the county deny this specific development not only because they considered it incompatible with the property uses nearby

KUDOS Christmas joy Dear Editor:

I’d like to thank the over 100 volunteers who served at this year’s annual North Fork Children’s Christmas Party, making Christmas a reality for 172 needy North Fork kids. The outpouring of love, compassion and joy was evident in all the smiling faces! A special thank you to each community member who sponsored a child for this party. Your generosity, as always, was appreciated. We are all blessed to live in such a giving community! Pam Bliss North Fork Children’s Christmas Party

and with the West Elk Scenic Byway designation, but because it posed a risk to the irrigation used by much of the valley. It was a wonderful exercise in democracy at work — involved in the effort were teachers, former coal miners, farmers, ditch riders, ranchers, presidents of two water companies, members of the board of the Farmers Ditch Association, long time winery owners, farm market and retail store owners, and residents whose families had been generations living and working in the North Fork Valley. I speak for many who would like to express appreciation for the effort made, in particular for the patience and time spent by Robbie Le Valley the county administrator, in answering questions, taking phone calls, and handling with respect her communications with everyone on both sides of the issue. Judy Martin Paonia

Nullifying the estate tax Dear Editor: In the Nov. 29 DCI, Ms. Wilmot asks how nullifying the estate tax benefits the masses. First of all, the chance of a complete repeal of the estate tax is highly unlikely. Yes, the House Republicans have mentioned this during the latest tax revision talks. However, as we all know, progressive and liberal politicians typically attack the wealthy to gain the support of the “proletariat.” It’s called buying votes. To actually see a complete repeal in the final legislation would be good news for all of us. Don’t hold your breath. Some simple economics 101, if you don’t mind. Currently the estate tax kicks in at $5.5 million in “taxable” income, a far cry from the hundreds of millions of income that Ms. Wilmot espouses. And that tax rate for 2017 is 40 percent if memory serves. It is only logical that this group of people is not just the “inheirenters,” but merely business owners and not the “ultra-rich.” When these people spend their money they sometimes buy big-ticket items — cars, boats, houses, ranches,

What a great community! ��

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the pipe to get him out. Also had Matt Bangert Plumbing in Paonia who was also willing to come out as a plan B. Dennis Turner also helped. I can’t say enough about Kevin Cooper and his crew. When I told him to send me a bill, he said not to worry about it and Merry Christmas. This just shows what a great community we live in. Thank you, thank you! Sandra Irwin Hotchkiss

other businesses. There are people that build things — sometimes they are called employees — that are purchased by the wealthier among us. The more disposable income someone has, the more they can purchase these items, if they so choose. When these wealthier people purchase these goods, it keeps these employees employed. These employees can also be referred to as part of “the masses.” If enough of these ultra-rich keep purchasing, which they usually do, it can actually keep an awful lot of these masses employed. And the more employees you have the more employees you have paying taxes — not just at the federal level but the state and local levels as well. Is it not enough that the top 20 percent of income earners in this country pay over 85 percent of the income tax? And why is it not even more offensive that local business owners pay two to three times the property tax rate that individual residences do? It is also a profound fallacy that a repeal of the estate tax benefits the filthy wealthy in return for vast right wing political contributions. It seems to me that there is a lot of wealth built up in cities like, oh, say, New York? How about Washington D.C? Let’s throw Chicago in there. How about Los Angeles? Even our own Denver. Clearly these are strong Democrat cities in very blue states, save for Colorado. The argument that these are “vast right wing” strongholds obviously is false. But this is precisely how liberals and progressives try and present their argument; it’s called class warfare in this particular case. They argue, just as Ms. Wilmot has, that the wealthy are to blame for all our

country’s problems, and if only they would turn over their entire fortunes to all of the proletariat, then all the problems of the world would be solved. Except, all of a sudden you don’t have the upper 20 percent paying 87 percent of the tax base. You don’t have all those wealthy people buying all those big ticket items that keep so many of us employed. You don’t have all those employees paying all those federal and state taxes suddenly. What happens then? Does unemployment increase due to the loss of all those jobs? Does the government have to spend more on “entitlement” programs, thus increasing the debt even more? Would you prefer to spend your money the way YOU see fit, or would you rather let the government make those decisions for you? As for the wealthiest among us, the rest of us better hope that goose keeps laying those golden eggs. I have personally been employed from time to time by people I would consider as very wealthy clients, and as a general rule they are very decent people. If they are treated with respect they reciprocate in kind. In my opinion all American citizens should pay the same percentage of their income in taxes. If we all have some amount of skin in the game it may very well change a few perspectives. Only then can the playing field be truly leveled. And now that we have a president who is serious about removing debilitating regulations inflicted on the private sector, therefore improving the national economy, there are very few reasons to not have a job. That is, if you truly want one. David Lundberg Cedaredge

Delta police, sheriff’s blotter

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Dear Editor: Just a shout out to my angels who took their time and equipment to rescue my doxie dog, Harry. He got caught up in a buried water pipe and was missing for almost 24 hours. My son, Mike, located him by sound and found Southwestern Systems who had a remote camera. They also had a super sucker hydro vac truck. They took their time to come to Hotchkiss and worked to locate Harry and uncover

Delta County Independent

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property owner that a From the Delta sumed innocent until or area. unless proven guilty. 1989 tan gooseneck horse Dec. 8: Police Department: A Cedaredge area man trailer was missing. The From the Delta reported his unoccupied investigation is ongoing. Dec. 6: Mathew Mahan, 44, Elizabeth A. Webster, County Sheriff’s Office cabin had been broken into. He was unable to of Delta, eluded depu55, of Hotchkiss was (partial list): determine if a human or ties Saturday afternoon arrested and jailed on an animal had caused when they attempted to a warrant with a $500 Dec. 4: arrest him on outstandThe caretaker at Riv- the damage. bond. An elderly woman ing warrants from Delta Cable Z. Rhode, 40, of erside Cemetery outside Delta was arrested and of Hotchkiss reported a in the early stages of and Montrose counties. contacted Mahan allegedly left a jailed on a warrant with maintenance building dementia had been broken into a friend by cell phone residence on Solar Court a $2,500 bond. Elise F. Johnson, 32 of overnight. Missing were after she became turned in Peach Valley driving Delta was arrested and three Stihl weed trim- around on a walk. Once 80 mph. Deputies spotted jailed on a warrant with mers, orange and white her location was deter- Mahan as he approached in color, a metal gas can, mined, family members 2100 and E roads, but a $2,500 bond. held up waiting for assisRobert J. Valdez, 58, of a grease gun, battery went to pick her up. A rancher reported tance. Mahan then allegDelta was arrested and charger and package of she had shot and killed a edly drove into a dirt field jailed on warrants with blue shop towels. Deputies took a report neighbor’s dog that was near 2000 Road and took $11,500 in bond. off on foot. He remains at Robert J. Valdez, 58, from a North Delta resi- chasing her livestock. A REDDI (Report large. Anyone with inforof Delta was arrested dent who said someone and jailed on charges of banged on his door “like Every Drunk Driver mation is asked to call possession of drug para- crazy” about 7:30 a.m. Immediately) was report- Crimestoppers at 874that morning. He ignored ed about a Gold Ford 8810. Outstanding warphernalia. Joseph P. Miller, 25, of the incident until he Explorer or Mountain- rants include failure to Delta was arrested and noticed that someone had eer that was speeding appear on a felony vehijailed on a warrant with tried to rip his screen up, then slowing down cle theft case, destroydoor off its hinges. Some and swerving as it was ing evidence, failure to a $3,000 bond. of his items had been heading east on Highway appear on an identity Dec. 7: Tatyana E. Cruz-Vil- tossed onto the roadway. 92 outside of Hotchkiss. theft case, theft, assault lalobos, 18, of Montrose Deputies searched the David Wilkins was trans- and a weapon offense. was issued a summons area but could not locate ported to Delta County Because of the weapon additional information Jail after receiving medi- offense, Peach Valley resfor shoplifting. Jessica M.R. Lisk, 25, related to the attempted cal clearance from Delta idents received a “Code County Memorial Hos- Red” notification that of Ouray was issued a break-in. Deputies assisted the pital. Deputies assisted law enforcement was summons for shoplifting. Delta Police Department the Hotchkiss Marshal’s searching for a potentialDec. 8: Jessica L. Sherrill, 32, with a search for stolen Office with supervision ly armed suspect. of Austin was issued a property at a residence and transport while the Dec. 10: Adam Wright, 37, of summons for shoplifting. on Spring Circle in Eck- Colorado State Patrol handled the investiga- Montrose was airlifted Malerie S. Voyles, 32, ert. from Ute Park Sunday tion. of Austin was issued a Dec. 5: A 47-year-old Eckert Dec. 9: afternoon at about 4 p.m. summons for shoplifting. An Orchard City resi- Wright was reportedly Brandon L. Sadler, 35, man attempted to turn of Delta was arrested and himself in on a warrant, dent reported that while hiking on Bobcat Trail jailed on warrant with $0 but was so intoxicated he was out of town, a when he fell from a cliff, deputies took him to female caretaker had breaking both arms and bond. Brandon L. Sadler, Delta County Memo- destroyed some of his a leg. He was transport35, of Delta was arrest- rial Hospital for medical property. After she was ed by raft to Ute Park, ed and jailed on charges clearance. He was later asked to leave, a friend where he was met by notified the out-of-town CareFlight. of possession of a con- jailed. BroderDakotah trolled substance/resistick, 24, of Dove Creek ing arrest. struck a cow on HighDec. 9: Shay N. Jensen, 21, way 92 near mile marker of Steamboat Springs 76 at about 1 p.m. He was arrested and jailed said the cow “came out on warrants with $4,250 of nowhere.” The cow did not survive impact and bond. DELTA COUNTY INDEPENDENT (UPS 152-700) is published weekly on Citations: Six tickets had to be removed from Wednesdays at 401 Meeker St., Delta, CO 81416. Second class postage were issued this week for the median. Broderick paid at DELTA, CO. POSTMASTER: Send address changes to: DELTA various traffic violations. was not injured. COUNTY INDEPENDENT, PO BOX 809, DELTA, CO 81416 Please remember: Dec. 7: 401 Meeker St. • (970) 874-4421 Deputies responded to All criminal charges are editor@deltacountyindependent.com merely an accusation an assault involving two ads@deltacountyindependent.com and the defendant is pre- brothers in the Paonia

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Delta County Independent

Wednesday, December 13, 2017

VFW: U.S. must always be prepared to defend freedoms BY PAT SUNDERLAND Managing Editor

Seventy-six years ago, at 7:53 a.m. on Sunday, Dec. 7, 1941, the U.S. was shocked by the Japanese attack on the U.S. Naval base in Pearl Harbor. The first wave targeted airfields and battleships. The second wave targeted other ships and

shipyard facilities. The air raid lasted until 9:45 a.m. Eight battleships were damaged, with five sunk. Three light cruisers, three destroyers, and three smaller vessels were lost along with 188 aircraft. The Japanese lost 27 airplanes and five midget submarines which attempted to enter the harbor and launch torpedoes. The casualty list at Pearl Harbor included 2,335 service members 68 civilians killed and 1,178 wounded. Over a thousand crew members aboard the USS Arizona battleship were killed after a 1,760-pound aerial bomb penetrated the forward magazine causing a catastrophic explosion. The news of the attack sent a shock wave across the nation resulting in a tremendous influx of young volunteers into the U.S Armed Forces. The

attack also effectively ended the American isolationist movement. With these words, District 11 Commander Mike Stahly opened the annual Pearl Harbor remembrance ceremony at Confluence Park. The “day which will live in infamy” imparted a valuable lesson, he said — the United States must always be prepared to defend its freedom. “A little over 15 years ago we were caught off guard again by a new force of terrorism,” he said. “Our servicemen and women must remain trained and ready to ensure we can respond to any crisis. We must be prepared to reconstitute our forces in the violent and changing world it requires us to meet. Any signal that we are not ready to defend ourselves will invite aggressors to act.”

Photo by Pat Sunderland

A Civil Air Patrol color guard comprised of Cadet Airman Lage, Cadet Basic Wolcott, Cadet Basic Gerlits and Cadet Basic Kennedy stand on the bank of the Gunnison River as VFW Post #3571 and Auxiliary conducts its annual Pearl Harbor remembrance ceremony. Each year, the crowd grows a bit larger, organizers observed.

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Photo by Pat Sunderland

VFW Auxiliary members toss burlap wreaths into the Gunnison River in remembrance of the gallant and brave soldiers, sailors and airman who fought on Dec. 7, 1941, the “day that will live in infamy,” and all those still ﬁghting to keep this nation free.

Student meetings

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FROM PAGE A1 schoolers said Chromebooks have been very helpful tools. The school district has invested heavily in Chromebooks with the goal of eventually providing every student with his/her own computer. Advanced level classes and opportunities for career exploration are also valued. Students would like even more opportunities for internships, job shadowing and part-time jobs that would align more closely with their career aspirations. As the session wrapped up, DHS counselor Shawna Magtutu had a suggestion for students who shared ideas, but didn’t know they’d fit anything more into an already packed school day. “Don’t stop sharing those ideas,” she said. “If you don’t think your one idea will fit in your sched-

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ule, let’s brainstorm. It doesn’t have to fit into a mold for everyone; make it work for you. You never know what you might get out of it.” Ideas were committed to Post-It notes and attached to trees drawn by Trevor Whiteside, a junior art student. Magtutu said the trees that are so iconic to our community all started with a seed. “You are the seed,” she told her students. “Your ideas, the energy you created, that’s the seed. You’re never too young — there are a lot of things you can make

happen, as one person or as a collective. You could be the one that makes the changes you want to see in Delta.” KC Carlson, a senior who helped facilitate the meeting at Delta High School, commented, “I’ve come to these meetings the last three years, and I feel like each year we get a little bit better at this.” While he said it was interesting to exchange ideas with students from Paonia, Hotchkiss and Cedaredge, the small group discussion with fellow Panthers was even more beneficial.

FROM PAGE A1 cultivation facilities as a conditional use in A-1, B1, B-2, B-3 and industrial zones. The petition that’s being circulated specifies hours of operation for retail marijuana establishments — 9 a.m. to 10 p.m. daily. In addition, no retail marijuana establishments will be allowed within 1,000 feet of any existing public or private school where classes are held for grades K-12. State law restricts legal sales to adults 21 and older. The final decision on zoning rests with the city council, but voter approval is required to levy taxes on marijuana sales. Discussion has been centered around a Colorado Municipal League summary of marijuana actions in every municipality in the state. Accord-

ing to CML, about 76 percent of the municipalities in the state prohibit the sale of marijuana. In municipalities where sales have been approved either by council action or through voter approval, sales, excise or transaction occupation taxes are employed as methods of collecting revenue from marijuana. Glen Black, community development director for the City of Delta, said the city attorney has recommended an additional 2 percent sales tax, to flow into the city’s general fund. That would bring the total sales tax to 5 percent, which is the same as the excise tax. In addition, the state collects its regular sales tax of 2.9 percent, plus a 15 percent special sales tax. A portion of the state sales tax would be allocated to the city. Another piece of the pie is carved out for education.

50J response FROM PAGE A1 form a belief about the truth of the allegations and accordingly deny the same.” The defendants admit that as a member of the journalism staff of Delta High School, Fisk contributed magazine articles about religious issues, but deny attempts were made to stop the magazine from being published. They deny retaliating against or attempting to censor any student, no matter their religious beliefs. Any actions defendants took that directly or indirectly affected Fisk, as alleged in the complaint, were “justified by lawful, good faith considerations.” Those good faith efforts to comply with school district policies “may limit and/or preclude potential liability,” the response states. The school district is asking the U.S. District Court to dismiss the complaint with prejudice and award the defendants attorney’s fees, costs and expenses incurred in defending the action. Not mentioned in the response is a school district policy that opens use of facilities to all community members, as long as there is no negative impact on the school’s mission.

Another policy related to distribution of non-curricular materials, including Gideon Bibles, was revised after complaints from the Freedom From Religion Foundation.

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Open at 9 a.m. on Sundays

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A4 Wednesday, December 13, 2017

ACCENT

Delta County Independent

BIRTHS Karena Atchley and Lanny Trumble of Delta are the parents of a daughter, Taylor Raelynne Atchley-Trumble, born Dec. 1, 2017, at Delta County Memorial Hospital. She weighed 8 pounds, 4.4 ounces and was 20 inches in length. Bryce and Nicole Henrie of Murrieta, Calif., are the parents of a son, Dylan Michael Henrie, born Oct. 12, 2017, at Rancho Springs Medical Center in Murrieta. He weighed 7 pounds, 13

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ounces and was 20 inches in length. Grandparents are Mike Henrie of Austin, Kelli Henrie of Costa Mesa, Calif., and Glen and Caroline Henry III of Anaheim Hills, Calif. Great-grandparents are Carlos and Lorena Henrie of Eckert, the late James and Nikki Cotten of Crawford, the late Glenn and Cherie Lou Henry Jr. of Santa Barbara, Calif., and Jeanette and the late Robert Grzegorczyk of San Juan Capistrano, Calif. Great-great-grandparents include the late Parks and Lola Mills and the late Jack and Elva Lee Cotten of Hotchkiss.

The senior center meal sites at Delta, Cedaredge, Hotchkiss, Paonia, and Olathe will all be closed Mondays, Dec. 25, and

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Jim Buie is turning 90 years old James “Jim” Buie turns 90 years old on Dec. 13. He plans to celebrate the occasion with family.

Senior meal sites close for holidays

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Five generations

During a trip to Arizona, Elsie Kennedy of Delta (front, center) met her great-great-grandchild, Jordan Russell, pictured with father Cory, Elsie’s great-grandson. Also pictured are Elsie’s daughter, Linda Rohwer (in red) and granddaughter, Sandy Russell.

Jan. 1, for the Christmas and New Year’s Day holidays, respectively. On Tuesday, Dec. 26, meals will be served at Cedaredge and Olathe only. The regular schedule will resume Dec. 27-29 during Christmas week, and the regular schedule will resume at all senior centers on Tuesday, Jan. 2. On closure dates, no meals will be served by Senior CommUnity Meals, there will be no Meals On Wheels deliveries, and the Delta Senior Center’s Thrift Store will also be closed.

Christmas square dance set for Dec. 16 The Delta Hubwheelers Square Dance Club will host its Christmas dance this Saturday night, Dec. 16, from 79 p.m., in the aerobics room of the Bill Heddles Recreation Center, 531 N. Palmer Street, Delta. This final dance of the year will feature special guest caller Kathy Racine, who is very popular with area dancers. Dances are “Mainstream,” with “Plus” tips. Round dances are to recordings. Bring refreshments to share! If coming from out of town, call to verify dance dates and details: Zee, 970-8353771, or Paul, 970-7734495.

Photo submitted

VFW members from Delta and Montrose are joined by pilots, crewmen, and Atlantic Aviation volunteers to unload nearly a ton and a half of food and toys destined for Western Slope veterans and their families.

Airlift makes Christmas merrier for veterans On Sunday, Dec. 10, members of Lee Marts Veterans of Foreign Wars (VFW) Post 3571 of Delta and Montrose VFW Post 784 met three incoming aircraft on the ramp of Atlantic Aviation in Montrose. The three planes were part of the joint Holiday Airlift sponsored by Colorado Aviation Business Association (CABA) and the VFW, airlifting thousands of pounds of food and toys throughout the state to help brighten the holidays of many veterans and their families.

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The three aircraft owned by Jack McClurg, Bret Tredway and Gary Mancuso delivered nearly 2,700 pounds of cargo to Montrose. VFW members, Atlantic employees and the aircraft owners and crews all chipped in to unload the planes. Jack, his pilot Loren Hofer and crew Harold Hiler and Shane Whitehead were the first to head back to Centennial Airport to make it to Denver in time for the Broncos kickoff. Bret, his wife Shen, with their crew of two miniature Australian shepherds, Timber and Ally, were the next to head back over the Rockies to the Front Range. Gary’s aircraft, crewed by Ray Lallo was the last aircraft into Montrose and the last out. VFW members loaded out about half of the cargo in two aircraft, the first owned and piloted by Steve Mathis which flew to Durango. The sec-

ond, owned and piloted by Rick Weaver, flew to Cortez where he and his “copilot” grandson were met by Dove Creek VFW post members. The rest of the cargo was divided between the Montrose and Delta posts for delivery with locally donated food and toys to help nearly 60 veterans and their families. Montrose residents Rick and Steve joined with dozens of Front Range pilots and crew members who donated their time and their aircraft to assist veterans. This is the seventh year of the airlift. This year a total of 26 aircraft were involved in the statewide program. With the help of many CABA members such as Atlantic in Montrose and lots of VFW members, pilots and crews, and the generosity of so many more, this Christmas will be a little merrier for many Colorado veterans.

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Photo by Pat Sunderland

Marlene and Susan Nahuat add syrup, chocolate chips and whipped topping to pancakes prepared by the Kiwanis Club of Delta for “Breakfast with Santa” Saturday, Dec. 9, at Bill Heddles Recreation Center. Kids enjoyed breakfast, a visit with Santa and crafts organized by Key Club members from Delta High School.

SCHOOL

Delta County Independent

Wednesday, December 13, 2017

VFW honors students, teachers �� BY PAT SUNDERLAND Managing Editor

Members of Delta’s Lee Marts Veterans of Foreign Wars Post #3571 and auxiliary gathered with friends for their annual Christmas banquet on Dec. 4 and to honor patriotic writing by local students. Three Delta Middle School students read winning entries in the Patriot Pen’s program, a youth essay contest conducted nationwide by VFW. This year’s theme was “America’s Gift to My Generation.” After reading their essays, Ryetta Davis, Hazel Lancaster and Sarah Teel each introduced their family members and accepted honorary certificates from VFW Post #3571 Commander Corky Ware. The middle school students were followed by

Voice of Democracy winners Carisa Rhiness, Delta High School, and James Davis, Vision Charter Academy. The purpose of the program, as well as the Voice of Democracy contest for high school students, is to encourage good citizenship and foster patriotism. Both contests provide opportunities for young writers to earn scholarships by advancing to the district, state and national levels of competition. The VFW also recognized the teachers who instill a love of learning and make a lasting impression on their students. Nominations were sought from all the schools in Delta. The principals’ glowing recommendations were read as each teacher was brought forward. Recipients included Jaime

Ogden, who teaches math/technology skills to Garnet Mesa Elementary School students; Mark Bruton, a physical education teacher who encourages Lincoln Elementary School to lead healthier lives; Jennifer Mayrose, a language arts teacher at Delta Middle School; Paul Shean, a teacher and coach at Delta High School; and Cristen Chermak, a kindergarten teacher at Vision Charter Academy, as well as a piano and 4-H sewing instructor who admits she has a hard time saying no. The program concluded with a special presentation to Hank Lohmeyer, a reporter who recently retired from the Delta County Independent, by Jim and Sandy Baker, who handle publicity for the post and the auxiliary. Lohmeyer was honored for his years of dedicated service in helping to keep the community aware of the activities of the post, auxiliary and other veterans organizations in Delta County.

“Hank donated hun• Acupuncture • Massage Therapy dreds of hours of his time • Cupping • Facials • Supplement Store to attend and report on the ceremonies honor�� ing the youth, teachers �� and first responders of�� Delta, and the memorial �� services on many Veterans Day, Memorial Day, �� Patriot Day, Pearl Harbor �� Day and other patriotic occasions,” his certificate noted. Sandy Baker joked that the promise of a free meal always guaranteed Lohmeyer’s attendance at VFW functions.

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VFW Post #3571 Commander Corky Ware presents a certiﬁcate of appreciation to Jennifer Mayrose.

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�� Photo by Pat Sunderland

Sandy and Jim Baker present a certiﬁcate of appreciation to Hank Lohmeyer, who for years covered VFW activities for the Delta County Independent. Lohmeyer retired in October.

Jaime Ogden

Paul Shean

Food drive wraps up

Mark Bruton

� Cristen Chermak

Photo submitted

Vision Charter Academy’s fall food drive wrapped up with a pizza party on Dec. 8. Learners and staff donated non-perishable goods over a threeweek period to Food for Thought, the school’s weekend kids-feeding-kids program. Learners pictured here received a special party for donating over 200 pounds of food in one day at the Fall Festival! On the left are (from front) Danielle Angotti, Ree Myles, Angelina Jensen, Zoey Jensen, Naomi Thomas, Patrick Thomas and Andrea Thomas. On the right are Chase Miles, Nevaeh Angotti, Margaux Casteel, Garyd Casteel Jr., Garyd Casteel and Daniel Angotti. Standing is Kathy Taylor, VCA school counselor and leader of Food for Thought. If you are interested in helping with Food for Thought, please contact Taylor at 874-8226.

Food, toy drive makes holidays happier Delta High School collected over 1,535 items and over 1,228 pounds of food during a food and toy drive sponsored by the student council in partnership with the Delta Police Department, Jerry Reiher State Farm and Kevin Parks State Farm. The food items were taken to the Delta Food Pantry; personalized DHSCares family boxes are to be delivered Tuesday, Dec. 19.

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DELTA PRIMARY CARE ��

970-874-6158 ��

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A6 Wednesday, December 13, 2017

LOCAL NEWS

Delta County Independent

GMES art teacher creates Christmas carousel A student at Garnet was so impressed by the teacher Bobbie Hutchi- teacher for the DCI. Mesa Elementary School carousel created by art son, she interviewed her Student: What inspired you to create this beautiful carousel? Mrs. Hutch: The shape of the kiva. I always thought it looked like a carousel. Student: How did you make each part of the carousel? Mrs. Hutch: It took two months to paint both sides of the horses. Student: How long did you spend on making this? Mrs. Hutch: Each Photo submitted horse took three to four Inspired by the shape of the kiva at Garnet Mesa Elementary School, art hours. teacher Bobbie Hutchison created a carousel. Student: How did you

Miracle on Main Street Olathe, CO

Friday, December 15 * 5:30 p.m.

tie this theme together with your student’s artwork? Mrs. Hutch: By making students color the horses and stripes on the back wall. Student: How long have you worked at GMES? Mrs. Hutch: 12 years. Student: Do you like your job? Mrs. Hutch: I love it! I adore it! Student: Why do you decorate? Mrs. Hutch: As a Christmas present to my students at Garnet Mesa Elementary School.

Advent concert series wraps up The last of this year’s Advent Concerts at St. Luke’s Church will be a special men’s choir singing on Tuesday, Dec. 19, 12:10 to 12:55 p.m. This presentation at 145 W. 5th Street in Delta will include several rousing as well as tender renditions of Christmas carols. For more information, call Nyla Storch, 8749485.

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Parade • Chili Supper • Santa & Goodies for the Kids

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Miracle On Main Street ��

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LOCAL NEWS

Delta County Independent

Wednesday, December 13, 2017

Area churches celebrate the birth of Jesus Cedaredge Community United Methodist Church 3rd & Aspen Sunday, Dec. 17 — Christmas cantata, 10 a.m. Blue Christmas service, 4 p.m. Sunday, Dec. 24 — Christmas Eve service with hymn sing, 10 a.m. Traditional candlelight service, 4 p.m. New Hope Evangelical Free Church 17464 Surface Creek Road, Cedaredge Sunday, Dec. 24 — Candlelight Christmas Eve service, 5 p.m. St. Philip Benizi Catholic Church 290 NW Cedar Cedaredge Sunday, Dec. 24 — English Mass, 8 a.m. Monday, Dec. 25 — Christmas Mass, 8 a.m. Eckert Presbyterian Church 13025 Highway 65 Sunday, Dec. 17 — Children’s Christmas play during worship service, 10:30 a.m. Wednesday, Dec. 20 — Advent soup supper at Eckert Presbyterian. The soup supper rotates among All Saints Lutheran Church, Cedaredge United Methodist Church (Dec. 13), and Eckert Presbyterian (Dec. 20). Supper at 5:30, worship at 6:15. Sunday, Dec. 24 — worship service, 10:30 a.m. Christmas Eve candlelight service, 6:30 p.m. All Saints Lutheran Church 20101 Deer Creek Road, Austin Wednesday, Dec. 20 — Advent supper/worship at Eckert Presbyterian Church. Supper at 5:30, worship at 6:15. Sunday, Dec. 24 — Morning worship cancelled. Christmas Eve worship service, 7 p.m. Delta Christian Church 795 1600 Road Sunday, Dec. 24 — Christmas Eve service, 5:30 p.m. Presbyterian Church of Delta 4th & Meeker Sunday, Dec. 17 — Morning worship, 10:30 a.m., featuring a men’s choir and fellowship. Saturday, Dec. 23 — Cookies, cocoa and

Christmas tales for youngsters 0-12, 10 a.m. to noon. Bring a favorite holiday tale to share. Sunday, Dec. 24 — Morning worship, 10:30 a.m.; Christmas Eve candlelight service, 6 p.m. St. Luke’s Episcopal Church 5th & Palmer, Delta Sunday, Dec. 24 — Morning worship service has been cancelled. Christmas Eve service begins with Lessons and Carols at 7 p.m. Holy communion follows with reception after. Monday, Dec. 25 — Holy communion, 10:15 a.m. New Year’s Eve — Morning worship service has been cancelled. Evening service begins at 7 p.m. Monday, Jan. 1 — Holy communion, 10:15 a.m. Grace Community Church 1400 Pioneer Road, Delta Sunday, Dec. 17 — Christmas production, 5 p.m. at Delta High School. We will be looking at the perspective of the wise men and how we can all live out lives of wisdom! We will have kids choir and dance, a few dramatic moments, worship and even some snow! Sunday, Dec. 24 — Christmas Eve service, 5 p.m. at Delta High School. Hear the story of the shepherds in a way that maybe you haven’t heard before! There will be carols, and candles, and maybe even some sheep. Rivers Church (formerly Delta First Assembly) 762 Dodge Sunday, Dec. 17 — Kids’ Christmas play, 10 a.m. All are welcome! Sunday, Dec. 24 — A Cowboy Christmas, 10 a.m. Communion, the Christmas story and teen drama. Redeemer Lutheran Church 1000 Pioneer Road, Delta Wednesday, Dec. 13 and 20 — Midweek Advent services. Friday, Dec. 15 — Live nativity program, 6 p.m., followed by a chili and soup supper, plus a bake

Photo by Pat Sunderland

Special visitor

The young residents of Haven House were thrilled by the arrival of Santa Claus and the motorcyclists who participated in a holiday toy run sponsored by Tri-State Generation and Transmission Employees Club. Located just north of Olathe, Haven House is a transitional/ transformational living program for the homeless in Montrose, Ouray and Delta counties.

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sale to benefit Tiny Treasures Preschool. Sunday, Dec. 24 — Morning worship, 9 a.m.; Christmas Eve candlelight service, 7 p.m. Monday, Dec. 25 — Christmas Day service, 9 a.m. Calvary Baptist Church 1290 A Street, Delta Sunday, Dec. 24 — Morning worship, 10:30 a.m.; candlelight service, 6 p.m. Child care provided. Community of Christ 1061 Meeker Street Delta Sunday, Dec. 17 — Christmas testimony, music and program, 10 a.m. Garnet Mesa Baptist Church 863 A Street, Delta Sunday, Dec. 24 — Sunday school, 9:45; morning worship, 11 a.m.; evening worship, 6:30 p.m. First Baptist Church of Delta 1250 Pioneer Road Saturday, Dec. 23 — Karen Family Christmas with a dinner at 2 p.m. followed by a program at 4 p.m. The community is invited to attend. Sunday, Dec. 24 — Sunday school, 9:15 a.m.; worship, 10:30 a.m. “Christmas Future,” Rev. 3:20. Christmas Eve candlelight service, 5 p.m., with a special offering going to the Salvation Army. Sunday, Dec. 31 — Sunday school, 9:15 a.m.; worship at 10:30 a.m. Praise and song service, 6 p.m., followed by an old guy/gals movie, “Steve McQueen: American Icon.”

Saint Andrew’s Orthodox Church 298 Bert Street, Delta Saturday, Dec. 23 — Vespers, 5 p.m. Sunday, Dec. 24 — Christmas Eve liturgy, 9:30 a.m.; candlelight vigil, 5 p.m. Monday, Dec. 25 — The Nativity According to the Flesh of Our Lord, God and Savior Jesus Christ, Divine Liturgy, 9 a.m. Tuesday, Dec. 26 — Second Day of Christmas, Divine Liturgy, 8:30 a.m. St. Michael Church Sunday, Dec. 24 — English Mass, 10 a.m.; Spanish Mass, noon; Anticipatory Mass (bilingual), 4 p.m. Monday, Dec. 25 — English Mass, 10 a.m.; Spanish Mass, noon. Delta United Methodist Church 477 Meeker Street Sunday, Dec. 24 — Morning worship, 8:30 and 10:45 a.m. Service of Carols and Candlelight, 6 p.m. Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints Sunday, Dec. 24 — Delta Ward, 9 a.m.; Uncompahgre Ward, 11 a.m.; Cedaredge Ward, 10 a.m. Paonia Ward, 10 a.m. All wards will have services focusing on Christmas and the sacrament. Hotchkiss Community United Methodist Church 2nd and Orchard Wednesday, Dec. 20 — Blue Christmas service, 6 p.m. Candles will be lit in remembrance of those lost. Sunday, Dec. 24 — Morning worship celebrating the birth of Jesus,

11 a.m. Sunday, Dec. 24 — Christmas Eve service, 7 p.m. Candlelight service celebrates the “Gift of Christmas.” Crawford Community United Methodist Church 297 Dogwood Avenue Saturday, Dec. 16 — Christmas caroling around the fire, 4 p.m. Hot drinks and snacks will be provided. Sunday, Dec. 24 — Morning worship celebrating the birth of Jesus, 9 a.m. Christmas Eve service, 5 p.m. Candlelight service celebrates the “Gift of Christmas.” Sacred Heart Catholic Church 3rd & North Fork Paonia Sunday, Dec. 17 — “Stories of Christmas,” directed by Brent Helleckson. Prelude music begins at 6:30 p.m. with the concert at 7 p.m. Refreshments

will follow. Paonia Friends Church 409 3rd Street Saturday, Dec. 16 — Come celebrate Jesus’ birthday party for children aged 6-12 from 9:30-11:30 a.m. See the greatest true story ever told performed live, sing Christmas songs, enjoy yummy snacks, and make fun crafts and presents to share. This is a FREE event. Call 527-3219 for more information. Paonia Christian Fellowship Church 3rd & Box Elder Saturday, Dec. 16 — Living nativity with friendly animals, hot cocoa, cookies and Christmas story, 4 to 6 p.m. Bible Baptist Church Olathe Sunday, Dec. 17 — Christmas musical, 10:30 a.m. Sunday, Dec. 24 — Christmas Eve candlelight service, 10:30 a.m.

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A8 Wednesday, December 13, 2017

Bernice Musser

Delta resident Bernice “Bernie” Musser died Nov. 30, 2017, at HopeWest Care Center in Grand Junction. She was 95. She was born in Delta Aug. 15, 1922, to L.H. and Carrie (Doty) Hendrickson. The family moved to Escalante Forks in 1930 where she attended school in the lower grades. She graduated from Delta High School in 1940, and attended Mesa Junior College and Colorado State Teachers College, where she earned her teaching certificate. She taught one year at Cedaredge Elementary School before marrying John “Jack” Musser in 1944. They spent the next 48 years on the Musser Ranch in Escalante Canyon before moving to Delta after they sold the ranch in 1988. Mrs. Musser served as a board member of Delta County and Colorado State Farm Bureau, and the Delta County Historical Society. She was active in both local and Colorado State Cowbelles and Friends of the Library. She was also a member of the Captain John Gunnison Chapter of DAR. She enjoyed giving Escalante Canyon history tours, playing bridge, socializing and her family. Mrs. Musser is survived by her children, Margaret “Margie” (Ray) Veatch and John (Vicki) Musser; grandchildren, Shaun (Pam) Veatch of Montrose, Cara (Justin) Watada of Greeley and Justin (Danielle) Musser of Montrose; and three great-grandchildren, Gavin, Elin and Dylan Watada of Greeley. No services are planned at this time. Memorial contributions may be made to HopeWest, PO Box 24, Delta, CO 81416 or to Delta County Historical Society, 251 Meeker St., Delta, CO 81416.

Paul Smith

Paul David Smith died Dec. 7, 2017. He was 51. He was born in Montrose to John and Ruth Townsend on May 2, 1966. He spent his childhood in Peach Valley, where he was adopted by his stepfather, David Smith, in 1982. The family moved to Hotchkiss and he graduated from Hotchkiss High School. In November 1987, he married Daryln Coleman. They moved to California so he could pursue a career in computer programming. Mrs. Coleman died six weeks after the birth of their daughter. Mr. Smith moved back to Colorado and worked for Radio Shack and then Walmart until health

OBITUARIES

issues forced his retirement after 15 years. He is survived by his daughter Chelsea (Michael) McCormick; grandchildren, Mason and Makayla, all of Hotchkiss; parents, Ruth and David Smith of Hotchkiss; brothers, Charles Townsend of Grand Junction, and David (Katie) Smith and Steven (Heather Clark) Smith, all of Hotchkiss; sisters, Laurie Townsend-Brewer and Kate (Tim) McDaniel, all of Hotchkiss, and Robin (Mike Shanahan) Miller of Denver; and extended family. He was preceded in death by his wife, Daryln Smith; birth father, John Townsend; father- and mother-in-law, Daryl and Anita Coleman; brother, John Townsend; and two sisters, Amy Townsend and Joyce Shanahan.

Becker near Ulysses, Kan. She spent her childhood and attended school in Halstead, Kan. On April 23, 1950, she married Lester Matthies in Halstead, Kan. Mrs. Matthies was a longtime member of the Grand Mesa Southern Baptist Church in Cedaredge. She also belonged to the Rose Garden Club and enjoyed cooking, gardening, fishing and traveling. She is survived by her husband of 67 years, Lester Matthies; two sons, Rodney (Sunshine) Matthies and Randy Matthies; six grandchildren; and one great-grandchild. Mrs. Matthies was preceded in death by her brother, Myron Becker. Taylor Funeral Service and Crematory is handling the arrangements.

Delta County Independent

1942. Mr. Anderson is survived by his wife, Karen Anderson; three children, James Anderson Jr., Corene Anderson and Lee Anderson; five grandchildren, Nicholas, Michael, Karl, Travis and Kelsey; eight greatgrandchildren; brother, Harold Anderson Jr.; and extended family. Memorial contributions may be made to American Diabetes Association, 2460 W. 26th Avenue #500C, Denver, CO 80211. Taylor Funeral Service and Crematory is handling the arrangements. Visit the internet obituary and sign the online guest registry at www. taylorfuneralservice.com.

George Volk Jr.

Bill Carson

Bill Glenn Carson died Dec. 5, 2017, at Delta County Memorial Hospital. He was 88. He was born July 5, 1929, in Greeley and grew up and attended school in Hooper. Following graduation from Hooper High School, he joined the U.S. Army and served in Korea from 1951-1953. He was a rancher until he retired. Mr. Carson was a lifetime member of the Elks Lodge and held every office over his 43 years of membership. He was also a member of the VFW and was the commander for seven years. Mr. Carson enjoyed hunting, fishing and staying active in his grandchildren’s and greatgrandchildren’s lives. He is survived by his wife, Ruth Carson of Hotchkiss; ex-wife, Cindy Gillam of Plano, Texas; son, Fred (Dawn Standish) Carson of Delta; grandchildren, Candis (Chance) Fischer, Dusty (Dani) Carson and Taylore (James) MacDonald; great-grandchildren, Tucker Carson, and Tate and Lilly Fischer; brothers, Ron Carson of Cottonwood, Ariz., and Don Carson of Newhall, Calif.; and sister-in-law, Helen Carson of California. He was preceded in death by a brother, Bud Carson. A memorial service was held Dec. 8 at the Hotchkiss Elks Lodge. Arrangements are under the direction of Sunset Mesa Funeral Directors.

Pernie Matthies

Longtime Cedaredge resident Pernie B. Matthies died Dec. 10, 2017, at her home. She was 88. Services will be held at a later date. Pernie B. Becker was born June 13, 1929, to Irvin and Adella (Buller)

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Morty Baran

Cedaredge resident Morty Baran died Oct. 6, 2017, while visiting his daughter in Massachusetts. He was 81. He was born in Bronx, N.Y., on Aug. 8, 1936. He moved to Los Angeles, Calif., in the early 1970s to work in film and advertising. He worked for Jay Chiat and Lee Clow at Chait/Day. In the late 1980s he moved to Richmond, Va., to work for The Martin Agency. He served as head of the TV broadcast department. In 2003, he retired to his 70-acre ranch in Hotchkiss. In 2014, he and his wife Amy helped open 4B’s Brewery in Cedaredge and they recently finished building their dream home in Cedaredge. He is survived by his wife of 37 years, Amy; children, David, Daniel and Mindy; and four grandchildren. A celebration of life will be held in June 2018.

James Anderson

Delta resident James “Jim” W. Anderson Sr. died Dec. 8, 2017, at his home. He was 75. A graveside service will be held at 2 p.m. Thursday, Dec. 14, at Mesa View Cemetery in Delta. A celebration of life service will follow at Jim’s Outback RV. He was born to Harold and Corene (Clark) Anderson in Bainbridge Island, Wash., on Nov. 6,

Gunnison and Delta County resident George William Volk Jr. died Dec. 11, 2017, at Delta County Memorial Hospital. He was 95. Visitation will be held at 1 p.m. with the funeral service following at 2 p.m. Saturday, Dec. 16, at Taylor Funeral Service Chapel in Paonia with Pastor Jim Jesser officiating. A graveside service will follow at Cedar Hill Cemetery with Paonia Masonic Lodge officiating.

George William Volk Jr. was born on Ragged Mountain March 28, 1922, to George and Marjia (Tezak) Volk. He was a lifetime resident of Ragged Mountain; he rode a horse to the Spring Creek County School House. On June 26, 1943, he married Margaret Burtard in Bowie. She preceded him in death in 1995. In July 1997, he married Betty Casselberry in Redstone. Mr. Volk attended the Redstone Church and was a member of the Paonia Masonic Lodge as a 32nd degree Scottish Rite Mason. He was also a member of the Hotchkiss Elks Lodge, co-founder and first president of Delta County Livestock Association and the founder of Ragged Mountain Water Association. In addition, he was on the Colorado Range Management Committee, the Gunnison County Planning Commission and Outfitter Association. He enjoyed raising cattle, fishing, hunting, wood working and building furniture, including his homes and lodge. He is survived by his son, Gary (Gail) Volk of Eckert; two grandchildren; and three greatgrandchildren. He was preceded in death by his first wife, Margaret; his second wife, Betty; his daughter, Margo Keiser; two brothers, Rudy and John Volk; three sisters, Marie Kuykendall, Annie Bear and Francis Gallob; and one granddaughter, Michelle Taylor. Memorial contributions may be made to the Delta County Livestock

Association Scholarship Fund, PO Box 2071, Hotchkiss, CO 81419. Taylor Funeral Service and Crematory is handling the arrangements. Visit the internet obituary and sign the online guest registry at www. taylorfuneralservice.com.

Ray Werner

Raymond H. “Ray” Werner of Delta died Dec. 11, 2017, at the San Juan Living Center in Montrose. He was 83. No services are scheduled at this time. Mr. Werner served as vice president of Skyland Food Corporation for many years. He is survived by his wife, Mary Werner of Delta; son, Scott (Jauna) Werner of Monument; and three grandchildren. Taylor Funeral Service and Crematory is handling the arrangements. Visit the internet obituary and sign the online guest registry at www. taylorfuneralservice.com.

Craig Triantos

Lifetime Delta resident Craig Triantos died Dec. 11, 2017, at the San Juan Living Center in Montrose. He was 68. Visitation will be held from 6 to 7 p.m. Sunday, Dec. 17, at Taylor Funeral Service Chapel in Delta. Funeral services will be held at 1 p.m. Monday, Dec. 18, also in the Delta chapel. Interment will follow in Delta City Cemetery. Taylor Funeral Service and Crematory is handling the arrangements. Visit the internet obituary and sign the online guest registry at www. taylorfuneralservice.com.

Johanna Pfluger Feb. 18, 1933 ~ Dec. 7, 2017 Johanna (“Hanni”) Pfluger, of Cedaredge, passed away Dec. 7, 2017. She was 84 years of age. A rosary will be prayed at 10 a.m., Wednesday, Dec. 13, at St. Philip’s Catholic Church in Cedaredge. A Mass of the Resurrection will be held at 10:30 a.m., Wednesday, Dec. 13. Rev. Albeiro Herrera-Ciro will preside. Services will conclude at the church. Johanna was born Feb. 18, 1933, in Wostrowa, Germany (Sudetenland) now known as Ostrov, Czech Republic to the late Wenzel and Hedwig (Fretschner) Waworka. She had a twin brother, Erich and a younger sister, Anna. Johanna grew up on her parents’ farm that was much like an American farm. Her father grew various grain and potato crops and tended to the usual farm animals. During WWII, Johanna worked to help her parents with the farm. Following the Potsdam Conference in 1945, Johanna’s family and as many as 500,000 other people were forced to leave their homes as refugees when territory lines changed from Sudetenland, Germany, to Czechoslovakia. German authorities determined which families in Germany had sufficient home space to accommodate the incoming families from Sudetenland. As many as 30 people shared one room for eight weeks in Bavaria, Germany, until placement could be made. When Johanna’s family was placed with a host family, they resided with the family for one year before settling in their own home in Augsburg, Germany. The families developed a close relationship that lasted until Johanna’s parents passed away. Johanna worked in a local weaving factory for six months. She then found a better position in an Augs-

burg weaving factory making cotton material. She would take the train to Augsburg and spend the week working and return home on the weekends. Her twin brother, Erich, also worked in Augsburg in the Holzhei Diesel plant. Erich’s best friend was Max Pfluger. Max rode the same train as Johanna and Erich. Johanna and Max became friends. In fact, they became such close friends that they wished the train rides would never end. Johanna married Max Pfluger on Nov. 8, 1953, in Markt Wald, Germany. In 1962, Johanna and Max decided to immigrate to the United States. Max’s cousin, Ernst Knittel, of Westminister, Calif., sponsored the immigration. On May 31, 1962, Johanna and Max arrived in San Francisco. Neither could speak English. Their strong will, work ethic, and belief in themselves carried them through this difficult time. Johanna loved her new country and enjoyed traveling and visiting many of its states. In 1972, she became a United States citizen. She worked for 30 years as a self-employed professional seamstress and interior decorator. In 1993, Johanna and Max retired and moved to Cedaredge. The Cedaredge community allowed them to pursue their outdoor interests of camping and fishing. They traveled with

the Thunder Mountain Camping Club. Johanna and Max traveled extensively the western part of the United States and Canada. On one occasion while traveling in Canada, Max did not follow Johanna’s navigational directions and made a wrong turn in the very large city of Calgary. Suddenly they found themselves driving their fifth wheel camper in a high rise apartment community with very narrow streets. Johanna had to exit the camper to guide Max through a tight turning encounter without scraping the sides of the camper. If only men would listen to their wife’s directions!! Johanna and Max celebrated their 50th wedding anniversary on Nov. 8, 2003, with a gala event. Max passed away Feb. 8, 2004. It was hard for Johanna after the loss of her longtime husband. She met the challenge bravely and continued an active life sharing with her German family and countless friends. She was a member of the Red Hat Society, she hosted bunco parties, and she hosted numerous holiday and special event gatherings for her friends. Johanna was an excellent cook with sauerbraten, red cabbage, spätzele, and Black Forest cake being one of her favorite meals. Johanna found comfort with her pets, especially Moritz, Rufus, Daisy, and Joey. Johanna is survived by her sister and many nieces and nephews living in Germany. In lieu of flowers, a memorial has been established in Johanna’s name to HopeWest, PO Box 24, Delta, CO 81416. Arrangements are under the direction of Taylor Funeral Service and Crematory, Delta. View the internet obituary and sign the online guest registry at www.taylorfuneralser vice.com. Paid obituary

Delta County Independent

ACTIVITIES

Wednesday, December 13, 2017

�� Volunteers invited to bird count ��

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Hawk-eyed volunteers are invited to count birds during the annual Audubon Christmas bird count Dec. 14 through Jan. 5. Each year, the bird count mobilizes over 70,000 volunteers in more than 2,400 locations across the Western Hemisphere to track the health of bird populations at a scale that professional scientists could not accomplish on their own. Data compiled by volunteers in the area records every individual bird and bird species seen in a specified area, contributing to a vast citizen science network that continues a tradition stretching back more than 100 years. The Audubon Society and other organizations like the BLM use data collected by volunteers to assess the health of bird populations and help guide conservation actions. The count takes place within count circles,

Star Wars costume contest planned “Star Wars: The Last Jedi” opens at the Egyptian Theatre, Thursday, Dec. 14. To celebrate the release, a costume contest will be held Friday, Dec. 15. To enter the contest, you must purchase a ticket to the Dec. 15th 7 p.m. showing. The Egyptian Theatre is not capable of selling tickets in advance and will not be accepting passes so be sure to line up early. The movie will begin after the conclusion of the contest. Costumes will be judged upon skill and craftsmanship. A Star Wars trivia contest will also be held and prizes awarded before the costume judging. Prizes have been donated by Egyptian Theatre, Clubb’s, Dog House Espresso and the Nesbit family.

which focus on specific geographical areas. Each circle is overseen by a count compiler. Count circles are assigned to participants at the meeting sites below. Novice birders will join a group that includes at least one experienced birdwatcher. In addition, if your home is within the boundaries of a count circle, you can participate from home and report the birds that visit your feeder. The counts will take place on the following dates and locations: Saturday, Dec. 16, Delta — Meet at 8 a.m. at the City Market parking lot in Delta to receive maps, data sheets and directions for conducting surveys. Contact Amy Seglund at 970-252-6014 or amy.seglund@state. co.us if you are interested in participating or need additional information. Saturday, Dec. 16, Montrose — Meet at 8:30 a.m. at the Montrose Public Lands Center parking lot, 2465 S. Townsend Avenue. The bird count continues until the circle is done or until dusk. All data needs to be turned into the leader by the end of the day. Contact Missy Siders at 970-240-5332 or msiders@blm.gov. Sunday, Dec. 17, Gunnison — Meet at 7:30 a.m. at the Western State College Campus, Hurst Hall, Room 130. A chili potluck is at 5:30 p.m. that eve-

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Historian to discuss Powderhorn Ski Resort The Mesa County Historical Society and the Museums of Western Colorado will present a program on Powderhorn Ski Resort. Alice Sisac, who serves as Powderhorn’s historian will give a talk on the 50-year history of the ski resort on Grand Mesa. The December oral history presentation takes place Thursday, Dec. 21, from noon to 1 p.m. at the Whitman Educational Center, 248 S. 4th Street, Grand Junction. The traditional cookie exchange will also be

held, so bring some cookies and take some cookies home! Coffee will be served. This program is jointly sponsored by the Museums of Western Colorado and the Mesa County Historical Society and is free and open to the public. Please feel free to bring a lunch. For more information contact MCHS president Priscilla Mangnall at 970-260-5226 or at Priscilla.Mangnall@gmail. com or contact the Loyd Files Research Library at 970-242-0971, ext. 209.

Santa will be greeting families at Sweitzer Lake State Park Saturday, Dec. 16, from 1 to 4 p.m. On the following day — Sunday, Dec. 17 — he will be at Crawford State Park from 1 to 4 p.m. “This is the third year that Santa has put our parks on his very busy schedule. We are very happy to host these visits,” said head ranger Scot Rist. The park staff will be on hand to supply visi-

tors with cookies and hot chocolate, and to take pictures. The pictures will be available online at no charge or parents may bring their own cameras to create their own special memories.

Santa’s elf Mamie Consolver suggests, “This is a good time to bring the entire family, not just the children, for a picture with Santa.” Please call 920-9215721 for more information.

Boys, girls invited to basketball skills challenge The Denver Nuggets Heddles Recreation CenBasketball Skills Chal- ter Wednesday, Dec. 20. lenge will be held at Bill Registration begins at 9:30; competition is set for 10 a.m. This free competition is open to boys and girls ages 6-13. Participants will be divided into genoutdoors, ski culture — der and age groups (age you’ll find it all in this as of April 30, 2018). award winning lineup. A birth certificate is Films in this year’s pro- required at time of registration to advance to the gram include: • The Space Within, sectional competition. DPS Skis Cinematic, 5 This competition minutes, 28 seconds. allows youngsters to • Ruth Gorge, Noah showcase their talents Howell, 8 minutes, 1 sec- in dribbling, passing ond. and shooting. Top scor• Below 0, Itai Hagage, ers from each age group 4 minutes, 54 seconds. advance to the state • The End of Snow, championships to be Jane Zelikova and Mor- held in conjunction with gan Heim, 20 minutes, a Denver Nuggets game 35 seconds. at the Pepsi Center in • Follow Through, March. Anya Miller and Becca This youth program is Cahall, 21 minutes, 48 produced by the Denver seconds. Nuggets and Colorado • Genesis, Ben SturParks and Recreation gulewski and Dan Pizza, Association, with support 5 minutes, 50 seconds. • Idaho 12ver Project, from the City of Delta. For more information, Mark Ortiz, 12 minutes, call Whitnee Lear at Bill 10 seconds. • Adventure Not War, Heddles Recreation CenMax Lowe, 7 minutes, 35 ter, 970-874-0923, or email seconds. whitnee@cityofdelta.net.

Backcountry Film Festival to be shown in Paonia, Delta

The 13th annual Winter Wildlands Alliance Backcountry Film Festival will show in Paonia on Monday, Dec. 18, at the Paradise Theatre, and in Delta Tuesday, Dec. 19, at Delta Center for Performing Arts. Doors open at 6:30 p.m.; the films start at 7 p.m. Admission is $10 at the door. All proceeds benefit The Nature Connection. The Nature Connection’s goal is to inspire our communities to connect to nature through educational opportunities in fun and energized outdoor experiences in order to promote healthy lifestyles. In Paonia, an announcement will be made about the GOCO Inspire Grant award for getting kids connected to the outdoors at this event! Come and hear the

good news! The Backcountry Film Festival is produced by Winter Wildlands Alliance as a celebration of the human-powered experience and a gathering place for the backcountry snowsports community. Winter Wildlands Alliance is a national nonprofit organization that partners with groups like The Nature Connection at the local level to inspire and educate the backcountry community to protect and care for their winter landscapes. Funds raised at each screening stay in the local community to support human-powered recreation and conservation efforts, winter education and avalanche/safety programs and to raise awareness of winter management issues. Adventure, environment and climate, youth

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com. All volunteers need to bring warm clothes (dress for weather), snack and/ or lunch, drinks, binoculars, spotting scope (if you have one) and bird identification books. Volunteers will receive maps of birding areas, checklists of birds that may be observed and additional instructions. For more information about the Christmas bird count, visit Audubon’s website at http://www. audubon.org/join-christ mas-bird-count. For additional information call the numbers listed above or contact Bruce Ackerman of Black Canyon Audubon at Bruceackermanaud@aol. com.

Santa to visit state parks

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ning to compile results. Contact Arden Anderson at 970-901-5739 or kankan@frontier.net the week before the count if there are any questions. All data needs to be turned into the leader by the end of the day or make other arrangements with the leader. Sunday, Dec. 17, Hotchkiss — Meet at 8:30 a.m. at the City Market parking lot in Hotchkiss to get into small groups. Coffee and bottled water will be provided. Volunteer Andrea Robinsong will be hosting a catered gathering at her house following the count. Please contact Adam Petry for more information or to RSVP at 970-462-8702 or petry@westernbiology.

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A10 Wednesday, December 13, 2017

LOCAL NEWS

Delta County Independent

Delta City Council wrestles with appropriations BY PAT SUNDERLAND Managing Editor

Delta City Council members readily agreed to supplemental appropriations for 2017, but hesitated when making appropriations for the coming year. Tod DeZeeuw, explained the unanticipated revenues and expenditures contained in the supplemental appropria-

tions ordinance considered by council members Dec. 5. The general fund appropriation includes a pass-through of $573,000, which reflects receipt of a Center for Mental Health grant administered by the city. The Center for Mental Health spent the entire grant amount on building renovations. Another $32,500 will cover unemployment insurance, the

cost of which was not known when the 2017 budget was prepared. DeZeeuw also requested an additional $3,000 for the dental fund, to ensure adequate funding for November and December claims. supplemental The appropriations received unanimous council approval. But a motion to

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approve 2018 appropriations failed to draw a second for several minutes. The 2018 budget has been approved; under consideration Dec. 5 was second reading of an ordinance authorizing the spending of budgeted funds. Council member Ron Austin’s motion to approve the ordinance was met with questions, rather than a second. Questions addressed Delta Urban Renewal Authority funding, golf course revenues and transfers from one fund to another. Still, there was no second to Austin’s motion. “I would have to ask, what is there with regard to the appropriations that you can’t support?” he asked. City attorney David McConaughy interjected, “We need to do the appropriation to have the authority to spend the money; that doesn’t mean you have to spend the money.” “If we don’t, come Dec. 31, there is no money,” Mayor Ed Sisson added. Council member Bill Raley finally seconded Austin’s motion, “for the purpose of the city staying in business.” “Personally I feel this budget is a staff budget and not a council budget,” Gerald Roberts said. “For the sake of the city staying in business I will vote

for the appropriations but I disapprove of the budget that was passed.” The 2018 budget passed on a 3-2 vote Nov. 21, with Roberts and Christopher Ryan casting dissenting votes. Roberts reiterated a request to have input on the budget earlier in the year. “I don’t want to nitpick the line items; we know we have wages, we know we have to buy electricity. I want to know where money comes from and where it’s going, where transfers are coming from and where they’re going. “In the future, it will be much easier to adopt the budget and appropriations with council input.” According to city charter, the city manager is to present the budget to the city council, city manager David Torgler said. It’s up to city coun-

cil to determine what services should be provided, not necessarily to get involved in the “nuts and bolts” of the finances of the city. The city attorney again stressed the importance of adopting some form of the appropriations ordinance, and the issue went to a vote. The ordinance was approved on second and final reading on a 41 vote, with Christopher Ryan casting the only “no” vote. He reiterated his opinion that some “pre-existing” elements of the budget could have been addressed sooner. Because budget projections point to deficits in future years, staff and council have already begun discussions on how to increase revenues or decrease expenditures. “We’re going to get an early jump on this issue,” Torgler said.

Dominguez-Escalante council meets Dec. 20 The Bureau of Land comment periods at 4:15 Management’s Domin- p.m. and 5:30 p.m. guez-Escalante National The agenda for the Conservation Area Advi- meeting will focus on sory Council will meet implementation prioriWednesday, Dec. 20, at ties for the Dominguezthe Mesa County Cen- Escalante Resource Mantral Services Building in agement Plan. The plan Grand Junction, 200 S. is available at http://1. Spruce Street, Room 40. usa.gov/1qKkMVi. The meeting runs from For more information, 3-6 p.m. and is open to contact Chris Joyner at the 970-210-2126. � public, with public ��

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NORTH FORK December 13, 2017

TIMES

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www.deltacountyindependent.com

Rec center one of top wishes for HHS students BY TAMIE MECK Staff Writer

If money were no object, Hotchkiss High School students would update technology, bring more options into the classroom, buy new shop tools, and build a path connecting their school to their community. They’d also build a recreation center. Those were just a few of the dozens of comments made by freshman-to-senior members of the student body during a two-hour, student-led “Student Conversation Meeting” hosted last Tuesday by the Delta County School District and Delta County. Delta County is updating its master plan and felt it is missing an opportunity to connect with youth in the community, said Delta County community and economic director Elyse Ackerman-Casselberry. She approached district superintendent Caryn Gibson about the possibility of meeting with students. At the time the district was planning its annual school meetings and decided to use those meetings to listen to students, rather than tell students what’s what, said Gibson. Students were given a series of questions, half focus-

Santa to visit Hotchkiss Saturday Santa will visit the Hotchkiss Fire Station Saturday, Dec. 16, from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. Meet Santa in a peaceful non-commercial setting. Tour the station and see the trucks and other equipment. Enjoy refreshments and gifts for the children. The entire event is free. The fire station is located at 193 Hotchkiss Avenue in Hotchkiss.

ing on school and half on community. Principal Paul Rodriguez told students that the meeting provided a “rare opportunity,” since teenagers aren’t often asked by school and community leaders for their opinions. He urged students to use the opportunity to say what’s on their minds. Overall, student comments were positive. They value their school and community, and feel supported. Students have strong opinions about their teachers, said student facilitator Ashley Ziemer. “They are very supportive and helpful ... They’re going to be there for you. They challenge us. And it’s really nice to have teachers who further your education.” Comments also reflected a desire for more opportunities in the classroom and the community. Regarding class options, students support Advanced Placement and concurrent enrollment programs, and a job shadowing program that was initiated this year. But they would like to have more resources that can prepare them for life after graduation. They also want more job opportunities. There just aren’t a lot of opportunities for kids to work in fields they’re interested in, said student body president, Nolan Egging, one of four student council members to facilitate the meeting. One student who works at Paonia Care and Rehabilitation plans to study nursing. He would like to see more classes related to his field. “I want to become a trauma nurse, eventually,” he said. Some classes are boring, students told Egging. They want more options, like astronomy, more hands-on learning and fewer lectures. They also want greater flexibility in their schedules. Like most small schools, HHS lacks extracurricular activities. “If you want to be on swim team you have to go all the way to Delta,” said Egging. Students like that the HHS STUDENTS TO B2

A community effort

Photo by Pat Sunderland

More than 100 volunteers turned out Saturday, Dec. 9, to lend a hand at the North Fork Children’s Christmas Party, now in its 26th year. They were there to make sure the children had a great time and that each received a special gift bag that included a winter jacket or new shoes, jeans and shirt, towel, underwear and socks, hat and gloves, stuffed animal, stocking with toothbrush and toothpaste, crayons and activity book, hard cover books and a number of toys, based on their interests. The party was held at Memorial Hall in Hotchkiss and served 172 children from the North Fork Valley in need of help.

Homework, transportation and snow days are PHS hot topics BY TAMIE MECK Staff Writer

Paonia Junior-Senior High School students believe their school and community are supportive of them. They also want fewer homework assignments, more class options, and more job opportunities. And because snowfall can vary from community to community, students want snow days to be decided at the community level rather than at the school district level. Those are a few of the thoughts expressed by students in grades 8-12 last Wednesday during a twohour, “Student Conversation Meeting” hosted by the Delta County School District and Delta County. The student-led meeting provided students an opportunity to comment on a number of issues related to school and community. Students believe that the school and the broader community are helpful and supportive of students, regardless of their interests, said senior

Mckenna Palmer, one of four student facilitators. The community supports their activities and attends sports events even though they don’t have kids involved. Students also believe both

school and community are supportive of their personal growth. Rotary Club of the North Fork, for example, sends volunteers to help at sports events and sponsors PHS STUDENTS TO B2

Photo by Tamie Meck

Paonia junior Jade Ellenberger posts a comment during last week’s ‘Student Conversation Meeting’ at Paonia JuniorSenior High School. The student-led meeting allowed students to speak out about a number of issues.

PHS girls basketball alumnae to take court in support of their teammate AAU team that won the state championship and traveled The Paonia High School to Kansas City, Mo., for the girls basketball teams of 1975- national finals. Much of their success, said 1979 had arguably the best run in the history of Paonia Hinson, “was that they had girls basketball. “The play- community support.” They also had a great assisers were driven,” said head coach Don Hinson. Now tant coach in Richard “Dick” retired, Hinson still proudly Braslin. Braslin taught at shares their accomplishments, PHS for 36 years. Braslin among them their four-year, coached four state champion 43-5 record. Each year the baseball teams at Paonia and team won league and district was the athletic director for 34 championships, and were con- years. He died last July. “During that time some sistently top placers at state. Their last two years they very close bonds were built,” averaged 78 points per game, said four-year player Jaylene which for many years was the (Knight) Park. She recalls state scoring record. Almost how she and teammates Johnall non-conference games were na Martin, Karen Sandidge, Lana Carsten, and Stephaplayed against bigger schools. In the spring of 1979, Hin- nie Peak spent every spare son formed an 18-and-under moment together, both on and off the court, celebrating milestones, wins and losses. Those bonds remain strong today. Late last October, Martin was seriously injured in an ATV accident and was air-lifted to Craig Hospital in Denver. She is now paralyzed from the waist down. Martin is known for her boundless energy and love of adventure and the outdoors, said Park. Since graduating she has served as a Paonia police officer and head girl’s basketball coach. She currently teaches physical education and criminal justice at Paonia Junior-Senior High School, PHS Yearbook photo and is an assistant volleyball In the 1970s Johnna Mar- and basketball coach. tin was a star player on the Despite the serious injuPaonia girl’s basketball team. ries, and to the surprise of Martin, who now teaches and her students, Martin returned coaches at PHS, was seriously to the classroom last week. injured in an ATV accident. “That’s the kind of person she

BY TAMIE MECK Staff Writer

PHS Yearbook photo

A 1979 Paonia High School Aerie yearbook photo captures the 1978-79 Paonia girl’s basketball team. Four of the players will return to the court this weekend for the Jack Hawkins Alumni Games to raise funds for teammate and friend, Johnna Martin (back row, fourth from right), who was seriously injured in an ATV accident in October. Her teammates are rallying to help her with medical bills and a new vehicle. is,” said Park. Martin’s injuries are lifechanging. In addition to mounting medical bills, she will need a wheelchair-accessible vehicle. She looked into modifying her current vehicle, but it’s just too small, said Park. This weekend, a handful of players will return to the court for the Jack Hawkins Alumni Games. The annual countywide games are played during the First Colorado National

Bank Basketball Tournament at Delta High School. They are playing to raise funds to purchase a vehicle for Martin. They’ll also pay tribute to Dick Braslin. Park and Lana (Carsten) Gafford, both members of the class of 1979, will take the court. Barbara Polson, a member of the class of 1980 and an all-state player who scored 422 points her senior year, will also join them. They’re dub-

bing themselves “Dinosaurs,” and plan to make the most of their middle-aged status, said Park. “It’ll be fun, but we couldn’t be more serious about raising funds and honoring Coach Braslin and Johnna.” They are calling the fundraiser “Thirteen for 13,” in honor of Martin’s high school number. They are encouraging donors to give just $13, about the price of a nice meal. THIRTEEN FOR 13 TO B3

B2 Wednesday, December 13, 2017

NORTH FORK TIMES

Delta County Independent

HHS students FROM PAGE B1 community supports extracurricular activities through donations and sponsorships and comes to their sports events. The Hotchkiss Library provides a space to study after school and explore new

things through books. When asked what would make the community a better place to live, students said that they want more fast food options, a bowling alley or movie theatre or somewhere to go at night.

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“By far,” the biggest wish is for a recreation center,” said facilitator and student council treasurer, Sam Rodriguez. There isn’t much to do in Hotchkiss and the nearest rec center is in Delta. Transportation is also a big issue. Delta County is very rural, and Highway 92 to Bulldog Street is narrow and lacks a connector trail. Students can’t walk or bike safely to school. Getting anywhere is difficult, especially for students who don’t drive or don’t have a vehicle, said Rodriguez. Students also want more public parks and more events like art openings and parades that connect the community. Senior facilitator Morgan Miller asked students what it would take to bring them home after they graduate and see the world. When asked who plans on returning, only

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three or four said yes, said Miller. Others would return if more job opportunities become available. When asked what they love about their community and what its strengths are, some said they like the small-town atmosphere, and believe people care about each other. They named hometown events like Farm to Fiddle and the Delta County Fair as making the community unique. Students like that the community is looking to create new trails and more outdoor opportunities through organizations like The Nature Connection, a Delta County School District-supported nonprofit creating outdoor opportunities for students in Delta County and Olathe. “We live in this really special place that a lot of kids that live in big cities don’t get to experience,” said Miller. “It would be nice to see the school utilizing all of those things that make it special.” If money was no object, students said they would buy new sports and weight room equipment and team uniforms and build a second gymnasium so both girls and boys teams can practice at the same time. They would replace the 1980s-era shop tools, and put locks on the bathroom stalls. That the school is considering upgrading its technology and purchasing Chromebooks is supported by students. “If technology

Photo by Tamie Meck

Senior Jeneve Mitchell posts one of her comments during last Tuesday’s ‘Student Conversation Meeting’ at Hotchkiss High School. Technology, transportation, and classroom options and the need for a recreation center were among the hottest topics discussed at the two-hour meeting. is not useful, it’s not worth it,” said Miller. Since students currently do most of their learning through textbooks, they would update those. They also want more hands-on experiences and field trips. Egging and Rodriguez were both surprised by the level of participation from and thoughtful comments made by their fellow students. Rodriguez said he had some ideas about what students would say, but was surprised by the thought that went into the answers. The event, he said, also allowed students to open up about the issues that concern them. Rodriguez also likes the concept of including students in public comment

sessions, because they will have different ideas than the older generations. “You have to think of everybody,” he said. Delta County community and economic director Elyse Ackerman-Casselberry said she’s pleased with the way the meetings went. “I’ve heard so much crossover from students with what the adults in the community are saying. But I also heard some really wonderful, unique and specific things today.” Casselberry said she doesn’t know if this is a first for the district and county. “But if it’s happened in the past, it’s been many years. So hopefully there will be more of this.”

students experience due to having the same schedule day after day. Students also want fewer homework assignments. Between school, after-school activities, homework and family, they often don’t get enough sleep, said Palmer. Students were encouraged to “dream big” when asked what they would buy for their school if money wasn’t an object. A pool, a recreation center, and a second gymnasium so girls and boys teams can practice simultaneously are on their wish list. They also want bigger classrooms. Funding for the Flight of the Eagle Project, a citizen-led project to build athletic fields and outdoor classrooms on school campus, is also a student priority. Paonia is the only high school in the district without a track. A new track would allow the school to host meets and be more competitive, said Malek-Madani. “We have a five-time state champions girl’s track team, and we don’t have a track.” They also want new textbooks, a bigger better selection of library books, better equipment for teachers, and higher quality instruments for the band. They are “about the lowest quality stuff that money can buy. That really hurts the sound quality and performance of our band,” said MalekMadani. More field trips would also be nice, said MalekMadani. The school’s advanced placement college-level

course program is also helpful in getting students admitted to good colleges. The school provides Google Chromebooks, which students appreciate. “We found that those are really beneficial to us,” said facilitator Caden Meilner. The level of support from school staff was reflected in comments. Even the janitors are very supportive, said Meilner. While they see it as a great place to live and raise a family, most students said they don’t plan to stay in the area after high school, nor do they plan to return after college. The No. 1 reason cited was a lack of opportunities. Students have few job opportunities outside of those provided by local businesses and ranches, said Meilner. At the same time, the community is good at providing internships and scholarships and other opportunities. “Our community is just pretty great,” said Meilner. Just the fact that the meeting was being held and students were being heard is a good example of how much the community cares. Teachers go out of their way to provide the tools necessary for student success, said Meilner. Students see every day, in every class, that teachers are supportive of their students. “Our teachers don’t just prepare us to make an impact on our community,” said Meilner. “I personally believe that they prepare us to change the world.”

PHS students FROM PAGE B1 youth camps and other opportunities. Kids also want a safe place to go after school. With speech and debate, knowledge bowl, and a recently formed student coding club the only afterschool options outside of sports, more extracurricular activities would give more kids something to do. Students also expressed a need for things to do and places to go at night. After night games, kids gather at Hightower Cafe, but it gets crowded and can feel unsafe, said Palmer. In considering the strengths of their school, said students want more opportunities such as a study abroad program. While students believe the school provides tools they need to function after graduation, they want more home economics and other life skills classes. “Kids complain about going out in to the real world” and not knowing how to reconcile their bank accounts or cook a meal, said facilitator Cyrus Malek-Madani. Because many students live outside of town, transportation can be a problem, especially for kids who aren’t old enough to drive or don’t have a car. Bike paths would allow them to ride safely to and from school, even if they live outside of town. A later start time and adoption of a block schedule might help, and could even ease transportation issues, said Palmer. A block schedule could also help with the boredom

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NORTH FORK TIMES

Delta County Independent

Wednesday, December 13, 2017

Paonia seeks police officer BY TAMIE MECK Staff Writer

The Town of Paonia is seeking a certified police officer after two officers left the Police Department within days of each other to work for other departments. As of Nov. 30 the department is down to two and a half officers after officers Stewart Byrge accepted a position at Cedaredge and Taffine Patterson accepted a position at Dinosaur. The town will accept applications until Dec. 29. The goal is to have someone hired by the end of January and trained Photo by Tamie Meck in time for summer, said Police Chief Neil Ferguson. A full job description and list of responsibilities Kids check out some of the gingerbread conand application forms are test entries during the annual gingerbread available at townofpao house kit building event Saturday at Paonia nia.com. Town Hall. A longstanding tradition, for the Officer Patrick Hinpast two years the holiday-themed event has yard remains on the been a fundraiser for the Paonia Elementary force, and reserve officer School Paonia Parents Organization. Proceeds Loren Winnett was hired beneﬁt the PES Landscape Improvement Plan. to replace officer Patterson. Until they are fully staffed again, said Chief Ferguson, non-emergency calls may not be responded to immediately, if at all, based on the number If you are located in the Judging will take of officers on duty at the town limits of Hotchkiss, place on Thursday, Dec. your home or business 14, with announcements will be considered in the made in the DCI and on Hotchkiss Community Facebook. Chamber of Commerce’s annual holiday lighting Mike Gwinn & the contest. Northfork Flyers will A first place prize of present a Christmas hol$75 will be awarded in iday concert at 7 p.m. both the “Best ResidenSaturday, Dec. 16, at tial Display” and “Best Wisehart Springs, 39508 Business Display” catPitkin Road, Paonia. egories, with runners up The popular quintet awarded a $25 prize! will feature jazz arrangeThe 19th annual ments of holiday favorites Sacred Heart Church as well as a lively variety

Gingerbread house fun

Hotchkiss lights to be judged Dec. 14

time of the call and the nature of the call. Losing police officers is a problem the town has had for a long time, said Mayor Charles Stewart. Because it’s a small town and a small department, people see the job as an opportunity to gain experience before moving on to a higher paying job with a bigger department. “I think that’s understandable,” said Stewart. In looking at current pay scales, “What we pay our officers really isn’t that competitive” with surrounding communities, said Stewart. “It becomes difficult to get people to stay.” The board, and the community, needs to consider whether it would be wise to allocate more money to the department, added Stewart. The Town of Hotchkiss Marshal’s Office is also seeking to add a fourth police officer to its staff. In his request to the town council for funding of another officer in the 2018 budget, Marshal Dan Miller cited the stress of trying to provide policing 24/7 with a three-man operation.

Northfork Flyers play a holiday concert Dec. 16

Sacred Heart presents concert

Celebrate Christmas with song

The Crawford Community Methodist Church will host outdoor Christmas caroling around the fire on Saturday, Dec. 16, beginning at 4 p.m. Hot drinks and snacks will be provided. All are welcome.

Christmas concert, “Stories of Christmas,” will be held Dec. 17, directed by Brent Helleckson. The prelude music begins at 6:30 p.m. with the concert at 7 p.m. The concert will be at Sacred Heart Catholic Church 235 North Fork Avenue in Paonia. This is a free concert and the choir’s gift to the community. Refreshments will follow. All are welcome.

of blues and other originals from the Northfork Flyers songbook. Admission is $20 at the door and seating is limited. A portion of the proceeds will go toward the Mountain Harvest Collective/Colorado Gives campaign. To RSVP, call 527-4680.

Hotchkiss UMC hosts Blue Christmas service Hotchkiss Community United Methodist Church is hosting a Blue Christmas service Wednesday, Dec. 20, at 6 p.m. All are welcome to this service of remembrance for those we have loved and lost. Come together with community and light candles

in remembrance. The church is located at 2nd and Orchard. Christmas Eve services are planned Sunday, Dec. 24, at 7 p.m. The candlelight service celebrates the “Gift of Christmas” with favorite Christmas carols and scripture.

Thirteen for 13 FROM PAGE B1 The last time the team played in the alumni games was in 1999, said Park. That was also a fundraiser for arts and music teacher and Paonia native, Denise Roeber Kossler, who died that year after contracting hantavirus. They bought team uniforms, and had enough left over to establish the Denise Kossler Scholarship Fund. Today the fund awards a scholarship in Kossler’s memory to the outstanding senior arts student at PHS. Carsten, Polson and Park will be joined on court by PHS alumnae Dawna Hart, Annavah Kropp, Taylor Plymale, Ashley Van Vleet, Nikki Poulos, Stacey Laiminger, Ce’rra Carsten and Ivy Abshire. Martin is their honorary teammate. Martin’s students are also stepping up to help with fundraising. When students heard about her accident, it became a matter of not if they would help her, but when, said senior Kaden Seriani. “She’s an amazing person and an amazing teacher.” Seriani belongs to the Paonia chapter of Fellowship of Christian Athletes, a non-denominational Christian ministry focusing on community. The club was started in 2016 and has grown to about 30 students. Members will be at the games passing donation buckets and can be identified by their T-shirts bearing a “Thirteen for 13” logo, created by 2017 PHS alumna, Haley Park. “We are very proud of our community,” said

Seriani. “Coming together to help out community members is what we do.” In 2016 they held bake sales and picked and sold hundreds of pounds of apricots for Hillman House, a nonprofit that built a house for the family of Mike Hillman. The father of two PHS studentathletes, Hillman was injured in a fall and will need special care for life. Donations helped build the Hillman House in Hotchkiss. When they are done with the house, the nonprofit that built it will open it to anoth-

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er family with special needs. The 10-minute alumni games will be played at halftime of each game. The first Dinosaurs alumni game will be played at halftime of the Paonia girls game, which begins at 6 p.m. Friday. A second game will be played on Saturday, with start time depending on whether the team wins or loses. Those donating $13 or more will receive a “Thirteen for 13” wrist band. “We want students to wear their wrist bands and show Ms. Martin how much she’s support-

ed,” said Seriani. Fundraising will continue after the tournament and into the coming new year. Seriani said the senior class has already donated proceeds from concession stand sales and will continue to do little things to raise money until they can come up with another big idea for a fundraising event. For those unable to attend the games, donations can also be made at any First Colorado National Bank office or at Paonia High School during school hours. Call 527-2300 for details.

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B4 Wednesday, December 13, 2017

NORTH FORK TIMES

Delta County Independent

Gabrielle Louise concert honors volunteer organizations The Paradise Theatre is pleased to welcome singer, songwriter Gabrielle Louise for a holiday concert Saturday, Dec. 23, at 7:30 p.m. This

is a very unique event because not only will it be a beautiful musical concert, it also will recognize and honor some local nonprofit organiza-

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tions that contribute to our community, celebrating the season of giving. For this special evening, Gabrielle Louise and her band will be performing original and interpreted songs that highlight the importance of volunteer organizations in our community, and the impact they make to our quality of life. Concert ticket sales benefit the Friends of the Paradise Theatre. Prior to the concert, starting at 6 p.m., there will be a reception where audience participants can socialize with local nonprofits and learn about current projects and issues. Participating nonprofits include The Abraham Connection, Valley Organic Grower Association, A Little Help, Slow Food Western Slope, The Western Slope Conservation Center, Kids Pasta Project and more. Gabrielle Louise and her band, composed of Melanie Jean on bass, Justin Thompson on telecaster, and Greg Schochet on mandolin, will weave the stories of our local issues into the music. Gabrielle Louise will also be releasing her most recent recording, “Live at Etown Hall,” and will be donating a portion of its proceeds to the causes recognized in the show. Recorded last holiday season in Boulder, “Live at Etown Hall” features 14 concert tracks supported by a roster of the southwest’s finest musicians, including Greg Schochet, Brodie Kinder, Melanie Jean, Jon McMillian, and Jonathan Sadler. The Friends of the Paradise Theatre received funding from the Bohemian Foundation for this special event. Based in Fort Collins, Bohemian Foundation is a private family foundation that supports

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local, national, and global efforts to build strong communities. Founded in 2001 by philanthropist Pat Stryker, Bohemian Foundation takes its name and inspiration from the bohemian movement of 19th century Europe. Tickets for the Gabrielle Louise “Give Where You Live” Holiday Concert are available online at http://paradiseof paonia.com/give-whereyou-live-gabrielle-louise/. and at the Paradise Theatre box office, Cirque Cyclery or Lizzy’s Market in Paonia. Tickets are $20 in advance for general admission and pre-concert reception. A limited number of VIP tickets are available at $35 and include a VIP reception and special front-row seating.

Worthy cause

Photo submitted

El Pomar Foundation fellow Matt Nunez, right, along with Betsy Marston, recently presented a check for $5,000 to Western Slope Conservation Center executive director Alex Johnson. As the Delta County representative of El Pomar’s San Juan Regional Council, Marston has the privilege of giving up to $5,000 of El Pomar’s money annually to a worthy Delta County nonproﬁt. This year she chose WSCC for its four decades of community service.

GOCO announcement to be made at film festival The 13th annual Winter Wildlands Alliance Backcountry Film Festival will show in Paonia on Monday, Dec. 18, at the Paradise Theatre. All proceeds benefit The Nature Connection. The doors open at 6:30 p.m. and the films begin at 7 p.m. Admission is $10 at the door. The Nature Connection’s goal is to inspire our communities to connect to nature through educational opportunities in fun and energized outdoor experiences in order to promote healthy lifestyles. An announcement will be made about the GOCO Inspire Grant award for getting kids connected to the outdoors at this event! Come and hear the good news! The Backcountry Film Festival is produced by Winter Wildlands Alliance as a celebration of the human-powered experience and a gathering place for the backcountry snowsports community. Winter Wildlands Alliance is a national nonprofit organization that partners with groups like

The Nature Connection at the local level to inspire and educate the backcountry community to protect and care for their winter landscapes. Funds raised at each screening stay in the local commu-

nity to support humanpowered recreation and conservation efforts, winter education and avalanche/safety programs and to raise awareness of winter management issues.

Town of Paonia seeks building inspector BY TAMIE MECK Staff Writer

The Town of Paonia is seeking to hire a building official after current building inspector Dave Coleman was released from his duties last week. Coleman was hired as a part-time building inspector in April 2016. Town administrator Ken Knight didn’t give a reason for ending Coleman’s employment with the town, stating that “it’s an ongoing personnel matter.” Applications for the position are being accepted until Dec. 29, with interviews planned for early January. In the interim, said Knight, the town is working with the City of Delta to have its

building inspector fill in until a new building inspector is in place. In the meantime, said Knight, building permits will continue to be issued. Inspection delays are possible and will be kept at a minimum. Since it’s the holidays, the town is hoping that this won’t cause inconveniences to citizens seeking building permits. Permit applications are available at townof paonia.com under the “Departments” tab. A job description and job application are available at Town Hall during regular business hours, or visit townofpaonia.com and scroll down to the “Currently in Paonia” tab.

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West Elk Clinic ��

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Hammin’ it up with Santa

Photo by Tamie Meck

Falon and Staci Waisath and daughters Evelyn, Jaci and Skylar have their picture taken with Santa Claus Saturday by professional photographer Ben Lehman of Lehman Images in Paonia. The activity was one of many events offered during the Paonia Chamber’s two weekends of holiday festivities.

Photo submitted

Eagles SOAR in math contest

Paonia Elementary recently participated in the Noetic National Math Contest with terrific results. This year over 23,000 students from over 564 schools competed and Paonia Elementary had seven students receive national honorable mention. Additionally, the highest scoring students from each grade level received medals. Pictured are (front row, left to right): Jasmine Vasquez (fourth grade high score), Joel Frazier (fifth grade honorable mention), Heidi Johnson (fifth grade honorable mention), and Giovanna Luna (fifth grade honorable mention and high score); (back row) Mariah Callen (sixth grade honorable mention), Ryder Hart (sixth grade honorable mention and high score), and Lane Allen (sixth grade honorable mention and high score). Not pictured is Emma Roberts (sixth grade honorable mention and high score).

SPORTS

Delta County Independent

SPORTS December 13, 2017

Wednesday, December 13, 2017

www.deltacountyindependent.com

Bruins repeat mat champs Junior Taj Vanderlinde pinned Basalt’s William Rivera in 1:54 to win the 220-pound title. Taking silver were sophomore Ryan Imhoff at 113 pounds, Alex McCracken (132), David Schipmann (145) and Jered Hulteen (160). Three Bruins wrestlers won bronze at Delta. Wrestling at 120, fresh-

man Trey Geyer placed third, tying for most points scored on the mat by a single wrestler, with 49 points. Geyer lost in quarterfinals to top-five ranked Owen Berry of Buena Vista, then wrestled back to a third-place finish on a 9-5 win over Berry. Senior Colton Hoerr was 4-1 for the tournament and won the thirdplace match in overtime against Delta’s Brandon Harper. Drew Mar-

Cutter Garrison. After the tournament he told his wrestlers that their For the second confive championship round secutive year Cedaredge losses show that the team claimed the team win at needs to be more vigilant. the annual Delta Pan“Get after them in the ther Invitational wresfinals and don’t be satistling tournament. Thirfied with just getting to teen teams competed at the finals,” said Garrison. this year’s tournament. “You’ve got to win the Cedaredge placed wrestournament.” tlers at 13 weights and The Bruins anticipate scored 232 points — 66 a winning season after placing eighth in the state last season. On Friday the Bruins dominated the mat against Basalt with a 66-3 dual win. In early season Class 2A On the Mat rankings they come in at No. 2. “It’s a talented team,” said Garrison, who is now in his fourth year as head coach at Cedaredge. The team has a roster of 31. The 10 returning seniors were freshmen when he arrived. “We’ve been working for four years,” and wrestling with consistency, said Garrison. In their heads and in their hearts “they love Photo by Tamie Meck Photo by Tamie Meck wrestling now,” said GarThe Cedaredge Bruins placed 13 wrestlers and scored 232 points to win the Bruins’ junior Taj Vanderlinde pins Basalt’s William rison. “Wrestling’s back annual Delta Panther Invitational Wrestling Tournament last Saturday. This is Rivera in the 220-pound championship match Sat- on the map in Cedaredge, Colorado.” the second consecutive year the Bruins won at Delta. urday at Delta.

BY TAMIE MECK

DCI Sports Writer

points ahead of second place Paonia. Of the six Bruins wrestling for the championship, two took home gold. Sophomore Sean Dale took a total of 1 minute, 16 seconds on the mat to pin his way to the championship match. In the finals he won by a 7-0 decision over Presley Pene of Hotchkiss.

kley (170) placed third on an 8-2 decision over Meeker. And freshman heavyweight Derek Sanchez completed the Bruins’ team win by pinning John Mall sophomore Dylan Crump in 2:35. Freshman 106-pounder Sam Campbell placed fifth, and senior Danny Mendoza (138) was seeded 12th and finished fifth. Junior Toby Waddell (195) placed sixth. “It’s a tough tournament,” said head coach

Eagles win five weight classes at Delta Invite BY TAMIE MECK DCI Sports Writer

The Paonia Eagles sent five into the championship round, and emerged with five champions — Sackett Chesnik (138), Clay Campbell (145), Rockley Grey Neal (152), Anthony Felice (170) and Jaden Miller (182). Chesnik, who is undefeated for the season, won against Rifle, Grand Valley and Delta and finished the tournament with an 8-5 win over Meeker’s Tannen Kennedy. Neal upset a slightly higher-ranked Colton

Hoerr of Cedaredge in semifinals. In finals, and in their second match of the season, Neal defeated Jace Peebles of Hotchkiss by a 9-2 decision. Campbell wrestled a nearly flawless tournament and was one of two champion wrestlers to pin all four opponents. Felice was seeded second and pinned wrestlers from John Mall and Cedaredge before pinning No. 1 seeded Aiden Barrios of Delta to win the tournament title. Miller won by a 6-3 decision over Nucla for

the championship. In his first high school tournament, freshman Reagan Todd (113) was 2-2 and placed fourth at Delta. In consolation semifinals Todd won by a 4-2 decision over No. 4 ranked DJ Van Matre of John Mall to advance to the third place round where he lost by a 1-0 decision to Cortez. Jesse Burns (160) placed fifth with wins over Buena Vista, Hotchkiss and John Mall. SophoPhoto by Tamie Meck more Zeb Etter (126) and senior Cyrus Malek- Delta senior Logan Church scores a takedown against Basalt in the champiMadani (195) placed onship match of the Delta Panther Invitational last Saturday at Delta High School. Church won the match by technical fall. sixth.

Church unbeaten at Invite BY WAYNE CRICK DCI Sports Editor

Despite missing wrestlers at four weights, the Delta Panthers scored 103 points to place fifth Saturday at the 13-team Panther Invitational. Delta produced one tournament champion. During his 9 minutes, 13 seconds on the mat, senior Logan Church scored a Photo by Tamie Meck

Clay Campbell scores a takedown in his 145pound championship win over David Schipmann of Cedaredge Saturday at the Panthers Invitational. One of ﬁve champions for Paonia, Campbell pinned all four of his opponents.

Photo by Tamie Meck

Barrios scored 19 points and was runner-up after a championship round loss to Paonia. At 152 pounds, Brandon Harper was seeded 10th and placed fourth. Harper, whose four wins were by pin, wrestled back from a quarterfinal loss to win his three consolation matches. In the third-place match Harp-

er lost in overtime, and by a point, to Cedaredge senior Colton Hoerr. At 195, Gauge Lockhart placed fifth, avenging a first-round consolation loss by pinning Toby Waddell of Cedaredge in the championship round. Ben Koch (120), Cody Suave (138) and Brendon Starr (145) placed sixth.

Bulldogs third; Campos MVP BY TAMIE MECK DCI Sports Writer

Hotchkiss sophomore Landen Mayberry controls Joey Oversole of Buena Vista in the 106-pound championship match at Delta. Mayberry was one of two tournament champions for Hotchkiss. The Bulldogs ﬁnished third out of 13 teams.

total of 48 points — a tie for the second most points scored by a single wrestler — and won all three of his matches by technical fall to claim the heavyweight title. Church, who was runner-up at state last season, won by technical fall over Oswaldo Morales of Basalt in 4:31. At 170 pounds, Aiden

Hotchkiss won titles in two weight divisions and scored 158 points to finish third Saturday at the Delta Panther Invitational wrestling tournament. It’s early in the wrestling season, but the tournament offered some highly competitive matches. One of them was at 120 pounds, where No. 1 seeded Hotchkiss junior Sergio Campos met up with the No. 2 seed, Grand Valley junior A.J. Serna. This is hardly the first time the two met on the mat. In fact, they’ve been wrestling for a long, long time, said Campos. “We are great friends,” said Campos. “We grew up together, always wrestling.” That friendly competition has made both wrestlers among the best in

the state. In 2015 Campos won the state middle school title at 75-pounds, while Serna was runner up at 90 pounds. Last season, Campos finished the year with a 40-4 record and a second-place finish at state in Class 2A at 113 pounds, while Serna was 44-4 last year and was the 113-pound runner up in Class 3A. In sophomore year head-to-head competition last year, Campos won by a 3-1 decision over Serna at Eagle Valley, while Serna won by a 4-3 decision over Campos at the Panther invite. On Saturday, Campos humbly emerged the victor, winning by a point after scoring a low-leg takedown in a sudden victory round. Coaches noticed his performance and voted Campos the tournament outstanding wrester, 106-145 pounds. Hotchkiss sent four

wrestlers into championship matches. At 106 pounds, No. 1 seeded junior Landen Mayberry won by a 7-4 decision over Joey Oversole of Buena Vista for the championship. At 126 pounds, junior Presley Pene took silver, advancing to the championship round on wins over John Mall and ranked wrestlers from Paonia and Grand Valley. In finals Pene lost by a 7-0 decision to Cedaredge sophomore Sean Dale. Senior Devin Curtis lost in finals to top-seeded senior Jacx Power of Coal Ridge. Sophomore Jace Peebles (152) was seeded eighth and placed second. Peebles pinned his way to the finals before losing by a 9-2 decision against Grey Neal of Paonia in the championship match. Freshman Robert Cochran was 3-2 at 113

pounds. Cochran was seeded ninth and placed fourth. Christian Matus (285) placed fifth, and at 132 pounds, freshman Traycer Hall was seeded 12th and placed fifth.

Photo by Tamie Meck

Hotchkiss junior Sergio Campos was voted outstanding wrestler (106145 pounds). Campos defeated 2016 state runner up A. J. Serna of Grand Valley in the sudden victory at 120.

B6 Wednesday, December 13, 2017

SPORTS

Delta County Independent

Paonia claims dual win over rival Hotchkiss BY TAMIE MECK DCI Sports Writer

It’s an annual ritual that dates back decades. Each year, Hotchkiss and Paonia step onto the wrestling mat to see which team can out-dual the other. Last Thursday’s dual win went to Paonia, which won at seven weight divisions and won one match by forfeit. To the delight of spectators, who nearly filled the Hotchkiss bleachers, the outcome came down to the final matches. The dual opened at 160 pounds, with Jesse Burns pinning sophomore Ethan Guy in 1 minute, 25 seconds. Paonia took a 12-0 lead on a forfeit, giving the win to freshman Anthony Miller at 170 pounds. At 182, junior Anthony Felice won by decision over Hotchkiss senior Colton Peebles. Peebles tied the match at 6-6 on a second-period takedown, but lost, 8-6, on a reversal in the third period. In a match between two top-four ranked wrestlers, at 195 pounds, Devin Curtis put Hotchkiss on the board with a 5-2 win over Jaden Miller, who was wrestling

up a weight class. After a scoreless first period, Miller scored two points on a reversal. Late in the round, Curtis completed a takedown-near fall combo for the lead. Neither wrestler was able to get control or score in the third period. Senior Cyrus MalekMadani also wrestled up a weight, narrowly defeating freshman Kevin Chavez of Hotchkiss to win the 220-pound match. Malek-Madani took a 5-4 lead in the third round on a reversal for the win. At 285, Paonia sophomore Levi Peterson pinned freshman Christian Matus in the first round, giving Paonia a 24-3 lead. Hotchkiss won the next five matches, beginning at 106 pounds, with Paonia freshman Reagan Todd going the full three rounds in a 13-2 major decision loss to Number one ranked junior Landen Mayberry. At 113 pounds, freshman Robert Cochran won by forfeit. At 120 pounds, Paonia junior Soul Connolly went two rounds before getting pinned by defending state runnerup Sergio Campos. At 126, Presley Pene pulled Hotchkiss to within two

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points in an 8-4 decision over Paonia sophomore Zeb Etter. Hotchkiss ranked freshman Traycer Hall scored seven points (a takedown and five back points) in the first period before pinning Paonia junior Ethan White early in the second period. To the delight of the Hotchkiss crowd, the win gave the Bulldogs a 28-24 lead. The celebration was short-lived. At 138, topranked junior Sackett Chesnik scored a firstround takedown against Kylar Massano. In the second period Chesnik scored six near-fall points before pinning Massano in 3:57, giving Paonia a 30-28 lead. Paonia senior Clay Campbell wasted little time in taking down and pinning JP Scriver in the 145-pound match. The pin came at 1:30 and the six points secured the win for Paonia. In the final match, sophomores Grey Neal and Jace Peebles wrestled their first match of the season. Peebles led, 7-2, going into the third period. An escape and a reversal by Neal narrowed Peebles’ lead to two points, and in the final seconds, Neal squeezed out three back points for the win. Last season, Hotchkiss won the dual by a score of 38-30. Paonia first year head coach Nate Wiggins was happy to get the win. “They always show up,” said Wiggins.

Photo by Tamie Meck

Hotchkiss junior Presley Pene scores two back points in his 8-4 win over Zeb Etter during action in the annual Hotchkiss-Paonia dual on Dec. 7. The dual almost ﬁlled the bleachers at Hotchkiss High School.

Photo by Tamie Meck

Paonia sophomore heavyweight Levi Peterson works toward a ﬁrst-round pin over freshman Christian Matus in the Dec. 7 dual at Hotchkiss High School. Paonia won at eight weights for a 39-28 win over rival Hotchkiss.

Delta matmen win duals BY WAYNE CRICK DCI Sports Editor

Delta’s Panthers picked up a pair of dual wins last week with matches against Rifle and Olathe on Dec. 7. Delta scored a 45-35 win over Rifle and notched a 51-12 decision against Olathe. Delta 45, Rifle 35 Action began at 152 against Rifle. Brandon Harper gave the Panthers an early lead with his win over Taylor Flynn in a fall, 3:09. Delta’s Drake Horn followed suit with a fall (6:58) over Brian De La Rosa at 160; Aiden Barrios (Delta) won by forfeit at 170 and Kolby

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Keller picked up a forfeit win at 182. At 195, Delta’s Gauge Lockhart scored a 20 decision over Pedro Guardado and Rifle’s Jared Henderson won by fall over Ethan Lawrence in the 220-pound bout. Logan Church, last year’s 3A state champion at 285, won his match by forfeit. Rifle won at 106 with Justin Henderson scoring a pinfall over Alonso Saenz; Gustavo Gonzalez won by forfeit at 113, Bryan Soto won by forfeit at 120; Cauy Smith defeated Ayden Tucker by fall at 126 and Conrad

Demann scored a technical fall (18-2 at 4:00) over Jarrin Crandall. Cody Suave got the Panthers back on track with a win by forfeit at 138 and Brandon Harper finished the match with a pinfall (0:26) win over Dillon Tiffany. Delta 51, Olathe 12 Delta wrestled Olathe in a second bout of the evening on Dec. 7. Matches began in the 160pound weight division with Horn winning by fall (4:16) over Timoteo Pena. At 170, Barrios won a 7-2 decision over Teagon Harris; Keller won by forfeit at 182; Lockhart won

by forfeit at 195; Olathe’s Gustavo Alejo won by fall over Ethan Lawrence at 220; Church won by TF (18-2, 2:00) over Chase Sale; Saenz won (MD 153) over Caleb Bachman at 106; a double-forfeit occured at 113; double forfeit at 120; Tucker won by fall over Alecxis Hernandez at 126; Olathe’s Jonathan Bollinger pinned Crandall at 132; Sauve won by forfeit at 138, Starr won by forfeit at 145 and Harper was a 9-5 winner over Keenan Mansker at 152. The Panthers will compete in this weekend’s Warrior Classic.

Delta swim numbers up BY WAYNE CRICK DCI Sports Editor

Thirty-three swimmers are keeping the water at BHRC in constant motion during practice times for Delta High School’s swim team. The participating team members are from all four Delta County schools. Head coach Karoline Roome is excited for the 2017-18 season as 17 of the team’s roster is a junior or below. Some of those have already shown great potential in early practice sessions and in recent competition. Roome will have reliable help from assistant coach Linda Hollinghead when there is need for coaching strategies. The bulk of this year’s team is from Delta (16) with eight traveling from Cedaredge, five from Hotchkiss and four making the longer journey from Paonia for practice sessions. Swimmers on the ros-

ter from Delta include Hailee Ruble (Fr. 100 back and 100 fly), Somer Cannon (So. 100 and 200 free), Kaiti Neely (So. 100 fly), Hannah Philman (So. 50 and 100 free), Ashley Lahoe (So. 100 free), Kiarrah Schotten (So. 50 free and 100 back), Maddie Sandridge (So.), Kalinn Komives (So. free style), Haylee Chamblin (So. free), Taylor Bess (Sr. 100 back and 50 free), Kendra Hillman (Sr. 100 breast and 200 IM), Rosie Komives (Sr. 100 free), Lauryn Metcalf (Sr. 50 and 100 free), Sami Wollert (Sr. 100 back and 100 fly), Rosalea Gallegos (So. free) and Paige Murry (Sr. free). This year’s Cedaredge contingent of swimmers includes Olivia McCrackin (Sr. 100 back and 100 breast), Sophia McCrackin (Fr. breast and free), Emma Puruis (Fr.), Kamryn Spiker (Sr. fly and free), Alaiha Goffbauer (Fr. free), Summer Young

Photo by Wayne Crick

This Delta swimmer is competing in the 200-yard medley relay at Delta’s ﬁrst home swim meet held last Friday. The Panthers placed second in the event.

(So. free and back), Abby Williams (Jr. free and back) and Niala Stair (free). The five Hotchkiss swimmers are Nadia Hill (So. free), Sydne West (So. free), Amber Mattler (Jr. free), Morgan Miller (Sr. free) and Jordan Tamayo (Sr. fly and free). Paonia Eagles on

the squad include Abby Reedy (Fr. free), Gracie Deck (So. free and back) Lene Meneley (Sr. free) and Brooke Hillman (Sr. free). Coach Roome sees seniors Kendra Hillman and Olivia McCrackin as swimmers who could be Delta’s top swimmers this season.

Delta second at home swim meet BY WAYNE CRICK DCI Sports Editor

In a three-team swim meet held last Friday, Delta’s Panthers finished second with 342 points. Gunnison won the meet with 347 points and Montrose placed third with 270 points. Kendra Hillman finished first in the 100 yard breaststroke with a winning time of 1:20.48. Teammate Olivia McCracken finished third in a time of 1:26.97. McCrackin claimed a second-place finish in the 100 yard backstroke with a time of 1:12.88. Montrose’s Madeline Chandler was first in a time of 1:04.83. Hailee Ruble gave the Panthers fourth place points (1:19.80) and Sami Wollert came in fifth in a time of 1:23.67. Kendra Hillman also collected third-place points for Delta in the

200 yard intermediate race (2:38.99). Jordan Tamayo finished fourth in the 50 yard freestyle race (31.97) with Montrose’s Chandler winning the event in 27.17. Lene Meneley’s 1:15.47 in the 100 yard freestyle event was good for fifth place and Kamryn Spiker was fifth in the 100 yard butterfly (1:22.34). The Panthers were second in the 200-yard medley relay after touching the wall at 2:20.90. Members of that team included Olivia McCrackin, Kendra Hillman, Jordan Tamayo and Meneley. The Panthers also picked up a fourth place (Hailee Ruble, Kalinn Komives, Spiker and Summer Young) and finished fifth from a combined effort from Sami Wollert, Abby Williams, Bess Taylor and Somer Cannon.

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Delta County Independent

Wednesday, December 13, 2017

Delta boys 2-0 in hoops BY WAYNE CRICK DCI Sports Editor

Panther girls on 2-0 hoops run BY WAYNE CRICK DCI Sports Editor

Last week’s basketball games were similar in the way they began and similar in the way they ended; with big victories. The Panthers hosted Hotchkiss on Tuesday, Dec. 5, and pulled off a 64-38 win. A road trip to Basalt on Thursday was also a big win for Delta as the Panthers rolled to a 62-25 decison to go 2-0 on the young season. Both games were non-conference matchups. Sophomore Sara Geddes was Delta’s top scorer in the week with 29 points, 17 against Hotchkiss and another 12 counters in Basalt against the Longhorns. Senior Aubrey Jones was close behind with her 25 points, seven against Hotchkiss and 18 in Basalt. Against Hotchkiss, Geddes scored just one point in the first quarter and netted nine in the second period to lead all scorers at the break with 10 points. Missa Webb was busy with a scoring surge in the second quarter and had eight points at the break. The Panthers led 16-13 after one period and had a 35-20 halftime lead. Freshman Keeley Porter had five points in the fourth period helping the Panthers outscore Hotchkiss 29-18 in the second half. Junior Jenna Sutliff canned six points with Webb adding another

five in the third quarter to put Delta up 52-28 with one period left in the game. Sutliff finished the game with six points and Webb had 13. Porter ended the game with eight points. Hotchkiss sophomore Shay Glaser had two of the Bulldogs’ three-point goals in the game and finished with 11 points and four steals. Joining Glaser in double figures was junior Kaiya Firor who scored 10 points and had four steals and 12 rebounds. In Basalt, Jones scored at least four points in each of the four quarters played. Her consistent play helped Delta take an 11-6 lead after one period and a 23-15 halftime lead. The Panthers, behind Webb’s six counters and four points from Jones and Geddes, exploded in the third quarter with 22 points, while a stout defense limited the Longhorns to just four points bumping Delta’s lead to 45-19. Webb finished the game with seven points and Porter had 10 in a winning cause. Sutliff had nine in the win. All but one Panther scored at least one point. Delta plays Paonia at 6 p.m. in the second annual First Colorado National Bank tournament on Friday. The Panthers play either Hotchkiss or Cedaredge on Saturday at either 3 p.m. or 6 p.m.

3A hoop games challenge Eagles BY TAMIE MECK DCI Sports Writer

The Paonia girls are now 3-1 following last week’s games against 3A Western Slope League teams. On Dec. 5 the Eagles hit 30 percent of their field goal attempts and had single-digit scores in all four quarters in their 35-28 loss at Olathe (2-2). On Friday night Paonia pulled off a 26-25 home win over Coal Ridge (0-2). The girls will plkay in the annual First Colorado National Bank tournament at Delta High School this Friday at 6 p.m., against the 2-0 Panthers of Delta. The Paonia boys are

2-2 after non-conference losses to Olathe (3-3) and Coal Ridge (2-0). On Dec. 5, Olathe’s 23-point third quarter helped boost the Pirates to a 66-52 home win over the Eagles. Three double-digit scorers gave Coal Ridge the edge and a 64-55 win at Paonia High School Friday night. Paonia boys will play in the First Colorado National Bank tournament Friday at 7:30 p.m., against 2-0 Delta. Following winter break the Eagles will open conference play on Jan. 5 at Plateau Valley High School. Their next home game is Jan. 6 against Caprock Academy.

named to the 3A AllState Second Team, when in fact junior Jose Pantoja was the player who should have been named. The DCI Sports Department regrets the error.

the needed spark that allowed the Panthers to overtake Basalt and gain a 49-43 lead to the final eight minutes of action. Carmichael led the Panthers on a 17-15 run in the final period with a pair of field goals and four of four free throws. Basalt’s J. Henderson wreaked havoc on Delta’s defense with 14 points in the first half and finished with 21 counters. W. Hawkins did most of his damage in second half play with 15 points (eight in the fourth period) and finished with 22 points for the Longhorns. Freed and Carmichael finished with 16 points for Delta. Basalt’s Alex Seibert made his presence felt in the game with 11 rebounds, six offensive and five defensive. Delta takes on Paonia in this year’s First Colorado National Bank Tournament Friday night at 7:30 p.m.

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Photo by Wayne Crick

Delta senior Aubrey Jones scores two points against Hotchkiss in a game won by the Panthers, 64-38. Jones ﬁnished with seven points in the game, six coming in the ﬁrst quarter.

Bulldogs hoop teams now 4-1 BY TAMIE MECK DCI Sports Writer

The Hotchkiss girls basketball team is 4-1 heading into this week’s First Colorado National Bank Delta County tournament, which opens Friday at Delta High School. A 21-point second quarter boosted Hotchkiss to a 54-33 non-conference win over the Miners last Thursday at Telluride High School. The Bulldog defense completed 23 steals, including six by Shay Glaser and five by Elsie Vasquez and Kaiya Firor. Carson Collins led the Bulldogs in scoring

with 19 points and in rebounds with 17. The girls open the FCNB tournament at 3 p.m. Friday against Cedaredge. The game will no doubt challenge Hotchkiss, as the undefeated 3A Bruins are coming off a tournament win at Aspen, where they defeated Aspen, 52-8, Meeker 38-37, and Soroco, 43-39. The boys team is also 4-1 heading into this weekend’s tournament following a nonconference 82-78 win at Telluride. It faces 3-1 Cedaredge at 4:30 p.m. Friday.

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Soccer mistake Last week’s report of an all-state soccer player’s selection was incorrect. In an article naming all-state players, Delta senior Ian Downey was

Hotchkiss had two players score in double figures with Rodriguez’s 18 leading the way and Gonzalez close behind with 17. A fast-paced style of play from Basalt caused some disruptions for the Panthers. Turnovers and missed shots kept the game close for longer than Delta coach Rob Ames wanted. Ames, and the Panthers, stayed calm through the first quarter and eventually tied the game in the second quarter. John Ames came off the bench in the second quarter and nailed two three-point shots from deep in the left baseline corner, and Freed added another six points in Delta’s 18-point run. By the end of the second frame, Delta had taken an 18-14 advantage and trailed by just two, 31-29, at halftime. Another seven points from Freed in the third quarter provided

�� Photo by Tamie Meck

Hotchkiss sophomore Elsie Vasquez defends against a Ridgway player at the Dec. 1 San Juan/WSL Shootout at Paonia High School. Both Hotchkiss teams are 4-1 heading into this week’s annual First Colorado National Bank tournament.

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Photo by Wayne Crick

Delta junior Joe Bules has a maximum stretch going to out-rebound Hotchkiss’ seven-footer Jacob Stucker during prep basketball action in Delta last week. Delta won the contest and is the only team to beat Hotchkiss so far this season.

A promising 2017-18 hoops season didn’t look that promising in the early going against either Hotchkiss or Basalt last week for the Delta High School boys basketball team. Hotchkiss was determined to stay with the Panthers in the early going of a game played on Dec. 5, but couldn’t keep pace in an 84-62 loss at Delta. On Thursday, Delta was in a battle from the start and trailed 17-11 after one period of play in Basalt. After trailing by 10 points, the Panthers rallied in the next three quarters for a 64-58 decision. Against Hotchkiss, Jaspar Carmichael and Dylan Hollenbeck held hot hands offensively. Hollenbeck nailed a pair of treys and two regular goals for 10 points in the opening eight minutes while Carmichael hit two threes on his way to nine points in the first quarter. The Panthers managed to open a 12-point lead by the end of the first quarter, 30-18. Hotchkiss senior Sam Rodriguez was a one-man

offensive show for most of the opening frame and scored eight of his team’s 18 points. Junior John Ames sparked Delta’s offense with a pair of three-pointers in the second quarter helping the Panthers score 15 points. Rodriguez and Jonathan Gonzalez netted six points each for Hotchkiss as the Bulldogs outscored Delta 17-15 in the period. Delta’s offense stayed active to open the second half and poured in 21 points on the strength of Carmichael’s trio of three-pointers. The Bulldogs countered with Gonzalez’s nine points in an 11-point run that left Hotchkiss trailing 66-46. Carmichael had his sixth trey of the game in the fourth quarter helping Delta earn an 18-16 advantage in the final quarter. The Bulldogs went to the charity stripe 12 times in the fourth quarter and made seven of their 16 points. Carmichael was the game’s leading scorer with 27 points and Hollenbeck finished with 17. Ames contributed 13 points and Logan Freed finished with 11.

B8 Wednesday, December 13, 2017

SPORTS

Delta County Independent

Bruins enjoy hoops success BY WAYNE CRICK DCI Sports Editor

Craig Cerise, and the Cedaredge Bruins, played four games away from the friendly confines of Cedaredge High School and made the most of playing on the road with three wins and a single loss. Cedaredge began the week in Ridgway with a game on Dec. 5 with a 4724 victory. On Dec. 7 the Bruins were in Meeker for the White River Shootout where they faced Rangely. The Bruins won their second game of the week,

53-39. A Friday contest, in Meeker, with the host Cowboys was a 71-38 loss. Saturday’s 75-58 win over Soroco concluded Cedaredge’s week on the hardwood. The Cedaredge girls played in Ridgway this past week and scored a 57-5 win over the Demons. Bruins 47, Demons 24 A sluggish first quarter kept scores low in Ridgway. The Demons weren’t overpowering in the first quarter of play but they did own an 8-4 lead.

Photo by Tamie Meck

Junior shooting guard David Lozano shoots a threepointer against Ridgway on Dec. 2. The Paonia boys will play in the annual First Colorado National Bank tournament at Delta High School this Friday at 7:30 p.m. against Delta.

Whatever coach Cerise drew up to begin the second quarter must have been the magic potion needed to spark a fire. Cedaredge responded with 19 points in the second frame and the Bruins’ defense tightened its perimeter to limit Ridgway to just four points. When the two teams went to halftime, Cedaredge owned a 2312 lead that would not be challenged the rest of the way. Second half play was more of the first half with the Bruins lumbering to a 24-12 advantage to post a 47-24 decision. Peter Carlson was hot and found a rhythm for 27 points to lead all scorers. Carlson also posted 15 rebounds (six offensive and nine defensive) and three blocks in the contest. Junior Jared Reynolds scored eight points with sophomore Fabian Barron dishing out seven assists. White River Shootout Bruins 53, Rangely 39

The Panthers provided more competition for Cedaredge and a 30-26 halftime lead for the Bruins indicated just that. There was more separation in the second half with the Bruins outscoring the Panthers by 10 points to earn the 14point win. Carlson was accurate once again for the Bruins and led all scorers in the game with 22 points. He had another 15 rebounds to his credit and recorded five blocks in the game. Senior Baylee Piper scored 12 points and pulled down eight rebounds and had two assists and four steals in the game. Senior Jacob Lewis had five assists and three steals while Craig Claunch posted four assists and five steals for the winners. Kobe Broome paced Rangely scorers with 18 points and Patrick Scoggins finished with 11 points with six assists and six steals. Meeker 71, Bruins 38

The Cowboys were not gracious hosts and started the game with 17 points in the first quarter while strapping the Bruins down with a defensive effort which allowed just six points. The game’s flow remained about the same for the next two quarters with Meeker putting up 32 points on offense and limiting the Bruins to 15 points. Meeker owned a 49-21 lead heading into the last quarter. Cedaredge’s offense was more productive in the final eight minutes but was still outscored 22-17 to make the final score 71-38. Carlson continued to shine for the Bruins with 13 points, 12 rebounds and four blocked shots. Piper had nine points and seven rebounds with Jared Reynolds chipping in eight counters. Bruins 75, Rams 58 Cedaredge enjoyed a game in which it outscored its opponent in each of the four quarters

on the way to a 17-point victory. The Bruins led 27-22 after two quarters of play had concluded and outscored Soroco 48-36 in the second half to post the 75-58 decision. Carlson’s 26 points gave him a total of 88 points for the week and a 22-point scoring average to begin the season. Carlson also cleaned the glass with 18 rebounds against the Rams and finished with 10 blocked shots, six assists and three steals. Lewis’ 19 points shows the explosiveness the Bruins possess on any given night. Lewis also had seven rebounds. Soroco’s Nick Estes finished with 19 points and Colton Stroup had 15. The Bruins open this week’s second annual First Colorado National Bank Tournament against Hotchkiss on Friday, Dec. 15, at 4:30 p.m. Tournament play concludes on Saturday with games at 3, 4:30, 6 and 7:30 p.m.

Photo by Wayne Crick

Delta senior Sami Wollert opened last week’s swim meet at Bill Heddles Recreation Center with the singing of the national anthem. Wollert competes in the 100 yard backstroke and butterﬂy events for this year’s Delta Panthers.

Photo by Wayne Crick

Delta head swim coach Karoline Roome, right, watches an event as she converses with a member of the swim team. Roome is in her second season at Delta.

First Colorado National Bank Jack Hawkins Alumni Games Varsity Women

December 15 & 16 th

Varsity Men

Championship

Delta High School

Alumni Women

Championship

Alumni Men

SURFACE CREEK December 13, 2017

NEWS

Section

www.deltacountyindependent.com

CHS students create holiday StoryWalk® BY TRACY IHNOT Delta County Libraries

Cleo the fish is sad as the holidays approach. He is alone at the bottom of the lake, anticipating the festivities that will go on without him. Will Cleo have a blue, blue, Christmas this year? Or will his friends come to the rescue? To find the answers, grab a friend and a good pair of walking shoes and hit the trail for the 2017 holiday StoryWalk®! The Surface Creek Trail StoryWalk® is celebrating its one-year anniversary in December with another original story created by Cedaredge High School students. “The gifted and talented students that decided to take this project on are mostly students who were involved in the project last year,” explains CHS teacher, Kevin Dunbar. “They are all very talented writers and artists and they graciously gave time from their busy schedules to create this story.” “Cleo’s Christmas Party,” written and illustrated by Jessica Craig, Grace Hatheway, Hannah Hatheway, Holly Jenkins and Nevaeh Martinez, is on display through the end of January. In addition to creating the story, Dunbar and his students will present it to Cedaredge preschoolers in the classroom and take Cedaredge kindergartners out on the trail to view it.

“I want the community to know that we did this for them,” says Hannah Hatheway, a CHS senior in the gifted and talented program. “This project was not about us. It was about writing a story to draw the community to the trail to participate in the StoryWalk® that the libraries sponsor. We wanted to provide a story that allows children and their families to walk the creek and spend some time engaging with the story and engaging with each other.” That is exactly what Delta County Libraries and the Town of Cedaredge aimed to do with the installation of the StoryWalk® in November 2016. “The StoryWalk® is an ongoing collaboration to encourage children and their families to get outside, reading,” says LaDonna Gunn, assistant district director for Delta County Libraries. “We are so pleased that Cedaredge students and teachers are taking ownership of this project and really making it a community-driven event.” Former Cedaredge Library manager Cara Morton and Town of Cedaredge intern Greg Brinck were key players in pulling the project together in 2016. Morton presented the idea initially and after Cedaredge became a HEAL Town (Healthy Eating Active Living) through LiveWell STORYWALK TO C2

Photos by Don Benjamin

Got snow?

County residents who are longing for December snow can ﬁnd some nearby along the Land O’Lakes trail on Grand Mesa. The 1⁄2-mile trail is just off Highway 65 between mile markers 29 and 30, about 20 minutes north of downtown Cedaredge. The trail is gently sloped and paved but it is mostly snowpacked and icy in spots so hikers should wear snow boots or waterproof footwear and take ski-poles or walking sticks along. And be sure to dress warmly including hats and gloves. Temperatures on Grand Mesa are in the teens all day then dropping much lower after dark and wind is a factor at the top of the trail. So bundle up and enjoy a hike in the snow. It’s worth the trip because the view at the top is spectacular.

CHS students freely share their opinions BY KAMI COLLINS Staff Writer

Ask and ye shall receive. Last week, the Delta County Planning Department and the Delta County School District joined forces and solicited the opinions of Cedaredge High School students in an effort to better direct strategic planning within both entities. Administrative staff from the two agencies got what they asked for — an earful, from a group of engaged, thoughtful and refreshingly honest kids. The students at CHS didn’t hold anything back. One group, asked to share concerns they had about their school, criticized the lack of mental health care within the school, saying that they needed more education on how to deal with stress and depression. Students also spoke about the lack of informative sex edu-

cation so students can make healthy choices. “We should at least be educated about it,” one girl said. Students also spoke about hiring practices within the school district. “This school focuses too much on sports,” said a student. “They hire teachers who are unfit for the job, just so they can be sports coaches.” Students also asked for a wider variety of class offerings, specifically asking for more AP, STEM, programming and electives classes. Another concern, about both the schools and the county in general, is the lack of modernization and technological access. “Cedaredge is living in the past. We’re behind the times,” said a student. “There is a disconnect from modernization.” Students spoke about the lack of technology in the classrooms, but also

about the lack of technology and tech services available in the private and professional sectors in the community. One question asked students if they planned to live in Delta County after graduation. The answer was an overwhelming no. A lack of jobs — jobs that pay enough to support a family — are few and far between, students said, and most are already making plans to leave after high school in search of a brighter future. Within the community, and the county, the students said they’d like to see some other recreational opportunities and activities besides outdoor recreation. “There is nothing to do in Cedaredge outside of the outdoors,” said a student. Students asked for multi-generational activities within town, so people don’t have to drive

to Delta, Montrose or Grand Junction to find family-friendly entertainment venues. Students also asked for better access to scholarships. “We need more help applying for college, and with the financial stuff,” one student said. “I think we could do a better job of preparing people for real life,” offered another. It wasn’t all negative, though. Students praised the community for its support of students and school activities, and they said Cedaredge has been a good place to grow up. Students also offered concrete solutions on how to address some of the gaps in their education. When talking about the lack of life skills-types of classes, student suggested part-time instructors be found within the community, such as partnering with a local bank to teach students how to bud-

get and balance a checkbook. “You guys were very thoughtful. We’re going to have to process a little bit,” superintendent Caryn Gibson said after all student groups had presented. “They’re more aware of things than we give them credit for,” said Amanda Cerise, the counselor at CHS. “It’s really amazing to watch this process,” said Elyse Ackerman-Casselberry as she observed a group of students discussing what would make the community a better place to live. She serves as Delta County’s community and economic development director, and is overseeing the county’s master plan update process. “To watch these students, the way they’re able to come together and talk about their ideas, where everybody’s ideas STUDENT MEETING TO C2

Cedaredge budget adopted, officer sworn in BY DON BENJAMIN Contributing Writer

The Cedaredge Board of Trustees held a regular meeting on Dec. 7 and gave unanimous approval to the town’s 2018 budget. This action culminates a budget process that started in August 2017. Resolutions were also passed approving budget related items including the town’s capital improvement plan, budget appropriations, and emergency reserves required by the Taxpayer Bill of Rights (TABOR). A resolution was

also approved restricting fees for capital replacement and to honor the town’s bond obligations, principal and interest payments, and debt retirement. In other business, the trustees approved a 7.98 mill levy, the same level as 2017. Greg Brinck, interim town administrator, reported that residential property assessments have decreased and the town will collect less money in property taxes this year. Pat Means, president of the Cedaredge Historic Pres-

ervation Advisory Board, presented plaques to representatives of three community buildings. The buildings have been added to the Cedaredge register of historic places; each plaque displays the year built. Greg Straton, owner of the building at 145 West Main Street, accepted a “1913” plaque designating the site of the historic Hawkins Barbershop. Buckley Peterson, representing the First Baptist Church, accepted a “1907” plaque for the Dr. L.C. Bolton residence in the 300 block of

Photo by Don Benjaminr

The Cedaredge Historic Preservation Advisory Board presented plaques to representatives of historic properties that have been added to the town registry. Left to right are Greg Straton, accepting for Hawkins Barbershop (building erected in 1913); Pat Means, president of the Historic Preservation Advisory Board; Buckley Peterson, accepting for the Dr. L.C. Bolton residence (erected in 1907); and Ronn Brewer, historian for the preservation board who researched building histories. Not pictured is Cedaredge Mayor Gene Welch who accepted a plaque for the Girardet Feed Store (erected in 1912) which is now the site of town hall.

Main Street. The Bolton home has also served as the parsonage for the church. And Mayor Gene Welch accepted a “1912” plaque designating the historic site of the Girardet Feed Store, now the location of town hall. Each plaque recipient also received a notebook containing research on their building. The advisory board’s historian, Ronn Brewer, conducted the research. The trustees welcomed Stewart Byrge, the town’s newly hired police officer. Cedaredge police chief Dan Sanders administered the oath of office to Byrge, a Paonia native who also served on the force there. Regarding efforts to fill the vacant golf club operations director position, interviews were to be conducted Dec. 11. Expenses for Neptune (brand name) water meters were approved. Following the meeting, interim administrator Brinck explained that the Neptune expense is not an additional expenditure. The $42,000 approved was initially budgeted for another water expense (the painting of the clear well) and whenever a designated expenditure is changed, staff seeks trustee approval. Department heads provided end-of-year reports. Larry Murphy, Cedaredge Golf Club golf pro, gave the final departmental report of his career. Reflecting back, he estimated that since coming on board in 2008 he has attended over 200

town meetings. He reported that all end-of-year activities (inventory, printing of forms for next year) have been completed. He felt he was leaving the golf club in better financial condition than he found it nearly a decade ago. CEDAREDGE TO C2

Photo by Don Benjamin

Cedaredge police officer Stewart Byrge took his oath of ofﬁce at the Dec. 7 Cedaredge trustees meeting. Byrge is a 2016 graduate of the technical college Law Enforcement Academy. A native of Paonia, he served for a time on the police force there. He commented that he is “extremely excited to get started” with his duties in his new community.

C2 Wednesday, December 13, 2017

SURFACE CREEK NEWS

Delta County Independent

Cedaredge FROM PAGE C1 He identified one of the biggest challenges for coming years will be to interest younger golfers in becoming annual pass holders now that current pass holders are aging. He thanked the trust-

ees for their support and they thanked him for his service. Jerry Young, co-director of public works, reported that, for 2017, eight new water meters have been installed meaning eight new town lots

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Merry Christmas & Happy New Year! ��

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are active, with as many as two or three more in the works. Eight may not seem like much, he said, but the trend is double that of previous years. On the negative side, water leaks have increased for 2017, 21 in total, but half of the reported leaks are

Christmas dinner boxes to be given out Dec. 16 The Cedaredge Food Bank volunteers will be distributing the Christmas dinner boxes on Saturday morning, Dec. 16, at 10 a.m. The Surface Creek Community Services expresses an “enormous thank you” to all our gracious donors, and a tremendous gratitude to all our volunteers for their countless hours, patience and love of community. Thank you for the strong bond you provide within our organization.

Free Cedaredge Community Christmas Day ~ Monday, December 25 11:30 a.m. - 2:00 p.m. Stolte Shed at Pioneer Town

in areas which public works plans to address given funds in the newly approved 2018 budget. New controls and filters have been installed at the water plant. Regarding sewer, the new plant has been in operation for a year and a half and the staff has learned a lot. Samples that used to take three weeks to process now take four hours and the efficiency of removing solvents is at 98 percent — far higher than the Colorado state standard. Police chief Dan Sanders reported that the department is glad to have its new officer on board. The department has been auditing its evidence vault and finalizing training. The department’s training accomplishments have met or exceeded Colorado requirements. Chief Sanders reported that

the community experienced only a few structural fires this year and he indicated that the fire department is actively seeking more volunteer members. Interim town administrator Brinck reported that funding assistance for the town’s Highway 65 waterline replacement has been confirmed. Support includes a zeropercent loan from the Colorado Water Resources and Power Development Authority plus a grant from the Colorado Department of Local Affairs’ energy mineral impact grant assistance fund which aids communities impacted by resource extraction. The trustees discussed the matter of hiring a new town administrator. Mayor Welch recommended that the town not go to the expense of hiring a consultant. Instead,

Chamber board has three openings The Cedaredge Area Chamber of Commerce board of directors will have three vacant seats available Jan. 1, 2018. Letters of interest are now being accepted for those in the business community who wish to serve on the board. “If you want to get your business more involved in the local community, if you want to help shape the future of chamber events and activities, and want a hand in guiding economic growth and development for the Surface Creek area, we’d love to have you on board,” said Nick Streza from

DeerCreek Village Realty, who currently serves as the board president. Any employee of any chamber member in good standing is eligible to run for a seat. The three new directors will be seated for a threeyear term, to begin January 2018. If interested, please submit a letter of interest to executive director Kami Collins via email at cedaredgearea chamber@gmail.com; mail to PO Box 278 in Cedaredge; or deliver in person to the office at 245 W. Main Street. Letters are due by Friday, Dec. 15, at 5 p.m.

he advocated a small town approach which he outlined as posting/ advertising the position for 15 days, having trustees review resumes and conduct interviews, and providing an open house setting for the public to meet finalists. Advertisement will begin in February 2018. During constituent time, Kacy Stillings, president of the Surface Creek Saddle Club, and Melinda Katchur, Saddle Club secretary-treasurer, raised concerns about increases in the club’s water bill. After hearing their concerns, Mayor Welch recommended they make an appointment to meet with him and interim administrator Brinck to seek resolution. Constituent Steve Pierce asked whether recent changes in the golf course superintendent position (a person let go, a replacement hired without the vacancy being advertised) had been handled in a way that left the town open to liability. Trustee Al Smith indicated that he had raised similar concerns but said those concerns were resolved to his satisfaction. Pierce said such personnel practices would be questionable in the private sector. Mayor Welch responded that the person hired was a rehire and, in any event, those who work for the town work “at will” meaning they can be hired or fired for any reason and that a town employee is also free to leave without notice. Pierce ended his comments by expressing concern that input he has offered at past trustee meetings has not been acknowledged or taken seriously.

Everyone is Welcome!

Menu: Turkey, Ham and All the Trimmings, plus Desserts of every kind.

Bring your favorite dessert to share if you wish. For more information call Marsha Bryan at 970-234-8800 To volunteer to help please contact Shayes White at 970-835-3366

DONATIONS AT THE DOOR ARE WELCOME. PROCEEDS ABOVE THOSE NEEDED TO PURCHASE FOOD WILL GO TO A CEDAREDGE COMMUNITY ROTARY CLUB PROJECT.

�� Photo by Kami Collins

Junior Courtney Freeman facilitates a discussion with her peers during the listening tour at Cedaredge High School last week. Planning staff from Delta County, school district admin staff and school board members conducted the tour in order to hear from youth about what’s working in Delta County and in the school district, and what isn’t. The students were refreshingly honest and perceptive, withholding neither criticism or compliments. “Kids just know,” said school board member Richard Hypio.

Student meeting FROM PAGE C1 are valid, and they’re here to listen to each other and they’re open to discussion — it’s pretty amazing. I think we as adults forget how to do this.” School board members Pete Blair, Ron Germann and Richard Hypio were in attendance to listen to students. Germann asked

students if they felt they had enough participation with the technical college. Of all the students in the room, only one is taking classes at TCR; students noted that transportation was an issue, and that tech college classes often conflict with their high school classes. Blair asked if students would be inter-

ested in more business classes at CHS; students responded enthusiastically, asking for classes on entrepreneurship and management. “I enjoyed their honesty,” Blair said. “I think they gave us some positive stuff, but they also gave us some negative stuff, which we need to know about.”

Walks® have now been installed in 50 states and 12 countries around the world. To experience the StoryWalk®, just visit Cedaredge and walk the

north end of the Surface Creek Trail starting from SE Independence Avenue off Highway 65. Contact Cedaredge Library or the Town of Cedaredge for more information.

StoryWalk FROM PAGE C1 Colorado, the town had the opportunity to apply for a small grant. The HEAL grant was awarded in September 2016 and, along with another small grant awarded to the town by Region 10 in August, the necessary funds were available to install the StoryWalk®. StoryWalks® are a unique and entertaining way to read a book and have been gaining popularity internationally. The StoryWalk® Project was created by Anne Ferguson of Montpelier, Vt., and developed in collaboration with the Vermont Bicycle & Pedestrian Coalition and the Kellogg Hubbard Library. Story-

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SURFACE CREEK NEWS

Delta County Independent

Wednesday, December 13, 2017

Orchard City trustees consider tax questions BY RICK SMITH Contributing Writer

Student of the month

Photo courtesy Marsha Bryan

Danny Mendoza of Cedaredge High School received the Cedaredge Rotary Club Student of the Month award for December. The award is given to recognize students for their academic achievement, community involvement and leadership ability. Pictured, from the left, are Jesus Mendoza, Sandra Mendoza, Danny Mendoza, C.J. Cannell, teacher and coach at Cedaredge High School, and Steve DeFeyter, Rotary club president.

GMAEC hosts successful fundraiser Organizers report that the Grand Mesa Arts and Events Center’s first fundraiser was a great success. Tickets sold out quickly and more than a hundred supporters packed into RJ’s Steakhouse in Cedaredge on Dec. 4 to mingle, bid on auction items, and celebrate the arts. The theme for the GMAEC event was “Jingle & Mingle the Night Away” and a

benefit auction featuring 70 donated items netted around $18,000. That figure brought supporters closer to their fundraising goal. GMAEC hopes to raise $100,000 by the close of the year and it is getting closer to that goal. The group has taken on the major project of renovating a building in downtown Cedaredge to create an arts venue with a

performance stage, film capability and audience seating. If fundraising efforts succeed, GMAEC hopes to open the facility in late spring 2018. The next fundraiser will be announced at www.facebook.com/ grandmesaartscenter. In the meantime, donations to the nonprofit group can be made online through www. grandmesaartscenter. com, or by mail at GMAEC, PO Box 583, Cedaredge, CO 81413.

The Orchard City Board of Trustees held a workshop on Dec. 6. All trustees, except for Mayor Ken Volgamore, who was ill, attended the workshop. There were also four Orchard City constituents in attendance. The trustees talked about ballot questions for the upcoming municipal election in April 2018. Tom Huerkamp drafted the language and reported he had discussed the information with the town attorney. One measure being considered is for a 3 percent sales tax for the town, with possible implementation in 2018. The projected revenue would be $130,000 for a full year.

A marijuana initiative will also be on the April ballot. The estimated tax rate for sales would be 15 percent to the state and a 5 percent excise tax for the town. Marijuana would be taxed at the point of harvest. The town would not tax medical marijuana sales, but the excise tax would be collected if the sales were to recreational businesses. Orchard City would also be responsible for application, licensing and renewal fees for businesses. If the initiative passes in 2018, revenues would not be realized until the following year. The board will come up with a procedure to educate the constituents on what a yea or nay vote will determine on all of

the initiatives on the ballot. A suggestion was also made to address the pros and cons of each initiative prior to April. A resolution on all ballot issues must be adopted by February 2018. A town hall meeting will be scheduled prior to the April election. Town administrator Melissa Oelke stated that the April election will be conducted by Delta County. Orchard City’s cost would be $4,610. A resolution approving an intergovernmental agreement will be drafted for approval by the board. The Orchard City town council will meet Wednesday, Dec. 13, at 7 p.m. Earlier in the day there will be a special road committee meeting with the board and Doug Keller.

Photo by Kami Collins

A Seussiﬁed Carol

Students at Cedaredge High School are hard at work perfecting the oneact play “A Seussiﬁed Carol,” which combines the beloved Christmas tale by Charles Dickens with the whimsy — and the rhyming — of Dr. Seuss. The students will perform the play for elementary and middle school students, as well as one community performance at the high school on Tuesday, Dec. 19, at 6 p.m., said teacher and director Nick Parsons.

Birds of the Western Slope A look at local birds with Evelyn Horn

Photo submitted

Mara Erwin, a member of the GMAEC board of directors, welcomes arts enthusiasts to the group’s ﬁrst fundraiser Dec. 4 in Cedaredge.

Check out the Angel Tree The Surface Creek Angel Giving Tree is up at Cedaredge FoodTown. Stop by and see how you can help. Need help this holiday season with gifts or cloth-

ing for your kids? Can you help a child in need by purchasing gifts or making a monetary contribution? Please call Peggy at 856-3306 or Heather at 778-0366.

Surf Scoter Long ago, when Martha Mohan and I went to the Grays Harbor Shorebird Festival in Olympia, Wash., I saw for the first time in my life sea scoters. There were three of them, and I had a difficult time figuring them out. The surf scoter had a more colorful, orange bill with a black and white patch on it and a white head patch. The white-winged scoter had an orange bill with a tiny white and black marking at a base of the bill. The black scoter had a yellowish orange bill and appeared to be totally black. The white-winged scoter has a broad white wing-patch, but of course the birds were all swimming (nobody flying!). I finally figured out the surf scoter with his colorful bill and the white spot on his head. But then I was stuck! The guide showed a curious white mark (like a comma?) on the white-winged, but they were too far away to tell much. So I left Washington “recognizing” a surf scoter and knowing that there was so much more to be learned! And now these birds have been reported in Colorado. Amazing! I

have followed the sightings on the Western Slope Bird Net (WSBN) for several years and it is fascinating! Today’s mail included the whitewinged scoter courtesy of Carol Ortenzia at Fruita State Park. I’ve heard various pronunciations of the name. First with a “short O” as in “cop,” second was with a “long O” as in “coat,” and even with a “double oo” as in “cool.” The Birders’ Handbook mentions that when foraging offshore, the birds “scoot” through the waves. From Sibleys Guide, I’d guess that the outlandish bill is a form of breeding decoration for the surf scoter. I would never have guessed the blue eye. The Birders’ Handbook states that the female builds a nest and that the male deserts when incubation begins. The nest usually is found inland along slow moving streams. Diet is mostly crustaceans and mollusks. Incubation and fledgling times are unknown — it’s the least studied of ducks. The chicks are all precocial (able to fend for themselves). The three species of scoters look alike (except for the bill of the surf.)

Photo courtesy Carnell Lab of Ornithology

Surf Scoter

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Photo by Kami Collins

Christmas bruins

Wishing you a very “beary” Christmas are this mama and her cub, proudly displaying both Bruin pride and Christmas spirit in the lobby of Cedaredge High School. Delta County schools will be on holiday break from Dec. 20 - Jan. 4. No word yet on when Mama will go into hibernation, but we bet it’s well after Santa has delivered her cub’s gifts — he’s asked for his very own Bruins T-shirt to display his school pride year round.

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C6 Wednesday, December 13, 2017

CHURCH

Delta County Independent

Concert review

The Nelson Family: A magnificent three BY CHARLIE HUFF

Delta-Montrose Community Concert Association

I suppose that had one lived in the Pacific Northwest in the past few years, he might have heard of Derik Nelson and possibly his sibling sister, Riana and younger brother, Dalton. They came here from their rural home near Olympia, Wash., as part of a 31-performance USA tour with Allied Concerts. They even brought with them their lovely mother who assisted them with the merchandise sales and other duties. However, before attending our concert Tuesday, Dec. 5, at Delta’s Performing Arts Center, I would not have

recognized any of their names. But after having seen and heard their concert performance here in Delta, I doubt that I will ever forget them. Their show displayed the uniquely memorable instrumental talent of Derik, the vocal multipart harmonies of Riana and her brothers, the very warm and genuine stage presence and interaction of all three with our audience, and the truly ingenious multimedia aural and visual presentation created and engineered by Dalton. His computerengineered and driven five-screen backdrop with all his video and still photography was perfectly

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coordinated with the special effects lighting and supplemental musical accompaniments throughout the entire concert. It was spectacular in and of itself while giving a unique depth of emotion and impact to their beautiful music and singing. At least half of the numbers which the Nelsons performed were either original compositions written by Derik or arranged by him to fit their individual “signature sound (that) features velvety three-part vocal harmonies that only a family can deliver ... who have been performing together since childhood.” The standing

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ovation of our audience and encore gave a rousing testament of the love and appreciation that all had for the Nelsons and their superior talent and performance. The three Nelsons, of course, all perform with great talent and beauty. However, each contributes to the concert effort in a variety of other vital capacities: Derik is the instrumentalist — primarily with the guitar — as well as the producer and audio engineer. Riana is the tour manager, graphic designer and publicity lady while Dalton, of course, is their video photographer and designer in addition to

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being the tech and lighting man. Indeed, they, along with the able assistance of a great mom, make an unbeatable team and put on one of the finest, truly family, performances we have ever had the privilege of enjoying here at the DeltaMontrose Community Concert Association! The Nelson siblings seemed to sum it all up by their statement inside their CD titled “Home Again” which said, “Thank you to our parents for giving us the gift of siblings.” As I seem to repeat with every concert review, I must say that if you missed it, you and your family and friends

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missed a truly magnificent and beautiful concert experience. However, fret not, there are yet three more great concerts on the schedule for the current DMCCA season, the next being “Main Street Souvenirs” which “features live piano music, a spoken narrative and video presentation exploring historical dimensions of the American Great Plains and Prairies with fond memories of days gone by.” It will be performed on Saturday, Feb. 3, at 7:30 p.m. at the Delta Performing Arts Center. Please see www. deltamontroseconcerts. com for more details or call me at 970-921-4142.

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Classifieds

December 13, 2017

Real Estate

D SECTION

Delta County Independent

BUY • SELL • TRADE

Real Estate

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Real Estate

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Wanting to sell your house?

DCI DEADLINES Space Reservation for ALL Display Advertising Fridays (5 p.m.) Copy for Display Advertising Mondays (noon) Legal Notices Mondays (10 a.m.) Classified Ads Mondays (10 a.m.) Too Late To Classify Mondays (noon) Calendar Of Events Items Tuesdays (10 a.m.)

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Thank you for your cooperation

Help Wanted

CLASSIFIEDS WORK! DELTA COUNTY

INDEPENDENT 401 Meeker St., Delta • 874-4421

Rentals FOR RENT: 2 BEDROOM apartment in Delta, new remodel, new management, $700 down, $700 per month, includes water, you pay other utilities, 970-9858106. (1x50v) FOR RENT: 2 BEDROOM house, 1 3/4 baths, Cedaredge, $850 per month, $1,000 deposit, 970985-8106. (1x50)

Autos FOR SALE: 1986 CHEVrolet El Camino, restored, new paint, new uholstery, mag wheels, very nice condition. $8,000 or best offer. 527-4478 or 260-5443, ask for Mike. (2x50)

HOLD THE

WORLD

in Your Hands Every time you read the newspaper, you open up a world of interesting and informative facts, figures and features. ALL THE NEWS YOU CAN USE Government Opinions Sports Weddings Obituaries Upcoming Events

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�� 401 Meeker St. Delta • 874-4421

A gift that keeps on giving 52 weeks a year. Give a Gift Subscription to the Delta County Independent. DELTA COUNTY

INDEPENDENT 401 Meeker St. • Delta, CO 81416 (970) 874-4421 www.deltacountyindependent.com

TOWN OF PAONIA Notice of full-time police officer position. This position is a certified position as required by the POST Standards and Training Act. This is general law enforcement work, responsible for protecting life and property and enforcing laws and ordinances within the Town. Duties include investigations, special detail assignments, conduct traffic enforcement, prepare reports, participate in required training, administrative duties and other special assignments as assigned by superiors. Requirements: Must be POST certified, or POST certifiable, have a valid Colorado driver’s license, be able to pass psychological exam, background checks and pre-employment drug test. Requires a high school diploma or GED. Salary DOQ. Application Procedure: Obtain and complete a Paonia Police Department Application from the Town of Paonia website or in person, at 214 Grand Ave., Paonia, CO 81428. Completed applications must either be dropped off in person or mailed to P.O. Box 460 Paonia, CO 81428 Attn. Chief Neil Ferguson. For more information, Email: nfergusonppd@townofpao nia.com. Applications must be received by December 29th 2017. (3x48) THE FOREST SERVICE IS seeking an individual with real estate experience to be a project manager for land transactions. Requirements: strong interpersonal skills, verbal and written communication skills, project management, Microsoft Office software, real estate transactions, land title and legal descriptions, and good analytical and problem-solving skills. Ability to learn environmental laws and policy. Prefer ability to work on an as-needed basis reporting to the Forest Service Delta office. Must pass federal background investigation. Send resume and letter of interest to Corey Wong, USDA Forest Service, 2250 South Main Street, Delta, CO 81416. No calls or emails. This is a Sources Sought Synopsis announcement to be used for preliminary market research information only. No reimbursement will be made for any costs incurred, associated with: providing information in response to this synopsis or any follow up information requests. No funds are presently available for this effort. The Government reserves the right to cancel this sources sought. (1x50)

Help Wanted

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Help Wanted

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Help Wanted

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�� CARBONDALE BASED excavating company looking for an experienced Heavy Equipment Mechanic. Good pay & benefits, please call 970-948-1915 or email resume to troy@-excava tionservices.biz. (4x49) OFFICE/ADMINISTRAtive Assistant. The District Attorney’s Office is seeking a person with strong communication and organizational skills to provide legal services in the Delta Office. This is an entry-level position that involves data entry and working with the public and law enforcement agencies. Please submit resume with references and computer experience by email to mail@co7da. org or by U.S. Mail to Attention Administrator, 1140 N. Grand Ave., Suite 200, Montrose, CO 81401, no later than December 15, 2017. (2x49) YOUR LISTING HERE! call now... 874-4421 and talk with an Ad Rep.

NEW ADDRESS? PLEASE notify the Delta County LOOKING FOR QUALITY Independent prior to movemployees? Advertise here ing. PO Box 809, Delta, CO 81416 or 970-874-4421. in the DCI Classifieds.

Quality Color Printing • • • • • • • • •

Business Cards Brochures Letterhead Posters Flyers Calendars Greeting Cards Announcements Invitations

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DELTA COUNTY

INDEPENDENT COMMERCIAL PRINTING DIVISION 401 Meeker St. • Delta

874-4421

D2 Wednesday, December 13, 2017 Public Service

CLASSIFIEDS

Public Service

WHAT TYPES OF Cottage Foods Can I Produce? Whole eggs, spices, teas, dehydrated produce, nuts, seeds, Honey, jams, jellies, and preserves, fruit butter, candies, certain bake goods If you have any questions, please call: 8742165. Delta County Health Department. (4x49) 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. IF YOU LOVE BOOKS, you will love the Downstairs Bookstore in the basement of the Delta Public Library.

Public Service

WANNA PLAY A ROUND? Golf with a fun group of ladies. Two membership options available. Sign up at www.cedaredgeladies golf.com. Get to know us on Facebook at “cedar edgeladiesgolfclub”

Public Service HOSPITAL VOLUNTEERS Wanted! Delta County Memorial Hospital needs hospital volunteers. Days and hours are flexible. There are currently openings in the ER, Oncology, Gift Shop and some additional areas. If you are interested, please contact Volunteer Coordinator, Percy Ake at (970) 596-7458 for an application.

THE AMERICAN LEGION Post 97 Paonia is seeking the names and addresses of all persons currently serving on active duty in the military from the North Fork Valley in order to contact DELTA HAS A BOOK- them and show our supstore in the basement of port. Send addresses to the library featuring gently American Legion Post 97, used books and magazines. PO Box 277, Paonia, CO 81428 or call 527-6552. Come check it out!

WOMEN ONLY AA MEETings, Delta, Saturdays, 11:00 a.m., at St. Luke's Episcopal Church, 5th & Palmer (back door).

CARING FOR CAREgivers, C4C - supporting hearts that care. Open to ANY caregiver. Meets monthly in Delta, 2nd Tuesday at 11 a.m. - 511 E. 10th St, Delta.

BECAWS! DONATIONS needed. Credit cards accepted. Call 970-527-3350, or visit cawsonline.org. Delta County Citizens for Animal Welfare and Shelter

Why advertise should

Public Service

THE ABRAHAM CONNECtion homeless shelter, located at 480 Silver St., Delta, offers emergency overnight shelter and food to men, women and families in the Delta area midOctober- April. Call us at 970-773-8290 to make a referral, or for information on how to volunteer or donate. www.Delta AbrahamConnection.org.

ALCOHOLICS ANONYmous meets Thursdays at 7 p.m. Friends of Bill W. Club. 897 Palmer Street, Delta.

your

you

Delta County Independent

Public Service

FREE DIAPERS FOR UP to one year! Pregnant women in Delta County can now get help to quit smoking and get something they can really use after their baby arrives — free diapers. Healthy moms have healthy babies. Enroll in the Baby & Me Tobacco Free program today. Contact the Delta County Health Department at 874-2165 or your local physician. SUPPORT THE DELTA Public Library. Give a gently used book in the Downstairs Book Store. DELTA FOOD PANTRY needs meals for Delta families who are temporarily in need. Donations of nonperishable food may be brought to 628 Meeker.

Community Newspaper

WELCOME RETURNING Veterans, Post 9221 VFW meets at 5:00 p.m. on the 4th Thursday of each month in Cedaredge. To find out how to participate in promoting patriotism and assisting veterans, contact Wayne Hamrick, (970) 250-1180. AARP DRIVER SAFETY Course. Save on insurance, keep up on newer traffic laws, learn defensive driving techniques. For details and schedule contact John Loring (970) 856-6924 or (970) 424-1778. HOTCHKISS-CRAWFORD Historical Museum. Winter hours, Saturdays 1-4 p.m. thru December 24. $3 admission or free to members. Come see our museum at 2nd & Hotchkiss Streets in Hotchkiss. 872-3780. 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. 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. 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 First Baptist Church, 1250 Pioneer Rd., Delta. For further information, call 874-8172 Jim Baker, Quartermaster. BECAWS! ADOPT A DOG or cat today. Call 970-5273350, or visit cawsonline. org. Delta County Citizens for Animal Welfare and Shelter

Shoppers are less willing today to accept advertising that is spooned out to them. They seek out advertising on their own. Newspapers are the medium shoppers use most for shopping in an average week More than half (52%) use newspapers, exceeding others like television (36%), ads appearing in search engines (11%) or ads on general interest websites (16%) Frank N. Magid Associates 2011.

DELTA COUNTY

INDEPENDENT

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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.

More selective and less intrusive 401 Meeker St. | Delta 970.874.4421

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PAONIA AMERICAN Legion runs a year round non-perishable emergency food pantry. This is for the North Fork area. For information, call 527-6252. 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.

Miscellaneous

Public Service SAVE EYEGLASSES, OLD jewelry and silver or bits of gold and silver scraps. The Grand Odd Fellow Lodge is sending them to: New Eyes for the Needy, 549 Millburn Ave., Short Hills, NJ 07078 or send them to: Gale Conger, Secretary of IOOF Lodge #116, 544 St. Hwy. 548, Delta, CO 81416. THE AMERICAN RED Cross needs you. Become one of the Red Cross volunteers who says, “We’ll Be There, Because Help Can’t Wait!” Call your local Red Cross Chapter at 970-2424851 or 1-800-HELP NOW for information on the difference you can make in someone’s life as a disaster volunteer. UNEMPLOYED? JOIN others for a time of networking, encouragement, and skill improvement. Latent Resources meets the first Thursday of each month at 6:30 at the Delta United Methodist Church (5th & Meeker). Attendants and visitors are encouraged to dress professionally and bring a note pad and a willingness to learn and be challenged. Find us on facebook.com & twitter.com - search "Latent Resources", or call James at 970-901-9463. HEALTHY BABIES START with early prenatal care. Delta County Health Department. Offers access to immediate, temporary Medicaid for pregnant women who qualify. 8742165. BECAWS! DONATION items needed for Barkin' Bargains Thrift Store in Paonia. Call 970-527-5111. Delta County Citizens for Animal Welfare and Shelter. BECAWS! DISCOUNT spay and neuter coupons available. Call 970-5273350, or visit cawsonline. org. Delta County Citizens for Animal Welfare and Shelter 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. THINK YOU'RE PREGnant? Abused? Need help? The Pregnancy Resource Center in Delta offers free service, support and advice to all teenagers and women in crisis pregnancy situations. For Christian help, anytime, call 874-5733.

Miscellaneous Colorado Statewide �� Network

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PUBLIC NOTICES

Delta County Independent

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Wednesday, December 13, 2017

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Delta County Independent

Wednesday, December 13, 2017

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D6 Wednesday, December 13, 2017

B A C K P A G E

BACK PAGE

Delta County Independent

Creating a world of distinctive landscapes

Photo by Don Benjamin

As afternoon sunlight streams in to her Cedaredge studio, Ginny Wise works on a pastel landscape while the large oil painting on the easel behind her awaits completion.

BY DON BENJAMIN Contributing Writer

ooking back to the moment when she first realized she could make it as an artist, Ginny Wise recalled that she had been taking art classes for five years before she framed something and put it in a local show. She won a prize and sold the drawing and she remembered saying to herself, “So — I can do this!” Unlike artists who always knew visual art would be their avocation, Ginny studied music at Pennsylvania’s Mansfield University and it was some time before her talented fingers would migrate from the key-works of a clarinet to the pastels she now uses to create her distinctive landscapes. After college, Ginny and her husband Jeff were living in Pennsylvania and raising a son and a daughter. Jeff was teaching music at the middle school in Red Lion — his home town — and Ginny was keeping track of the children and operating a bookkeeping and accounting service when, at age 32, she began looking for a “just me” activity. First she tried a watercolor class but found she didn’t care for the medium. Then she bought a little box of a dozen pastels and she was hooked. “And it’s been pastels ever since,” she smiled as she gazed at the works lining the walls of her sunlit studio. Ginny spends hours working in her studio. Artistic work is a highly personal

Photo by Don Benjamin

Colorful pastels are the tools of Ginny’s trade.

endeavor but she has consistently found value in networking with other artists. In Pennsylvania she and seven other women formed a critique group that met once a month to share and discuss their work. Eventually the group sought out venues, sent out invitations and mounted art shows. Christened the “Third Tuesday” for their monthly meeting day, the group is still active. The continuing “Tuesday” group is just one lasting impression that Ginny left in Pennsylvania before relocating to the Western Slope because her work back east also included a stint as a mural assistant. “I stood way up on scaffolding laying in color on a brick wall while the artist stood below guiding my work,” she recalled. The two-story-high, 832-squarefoot “Farm to Market” mural she helped create can still be seen in York, Pa., directly across from the city’s central market. Attracted by Colorado’s scenery, Ginny and Jeff came to Cedaredge in 2011. And four years later — given her background of collaborating with other artists — it seemed only natural that she would become involved in the beginning stages of a local cooperative artists’ gallery. That gallery became a reality in December 2015 when Grand Mesa Impressionz, Inc. opened its doors in downtown Cedaredge. In Impressionz’s early days Ginny served on the board and also co-coordinated the gallery with Gretchen Atkinson. (It was Atkinson and Lindy Palmer who first conceived the idea for the gallery when they worked for the Cedaredge Area Chamber of Commerce.) Later, desiring to return to her studio work and feeling that Impressionz was ready for new ideas, Ginny left the board and stepped down from her coordinator role. But she continues to support the gallery and she just finished a show at Impressionz as featured artist for the month of November. Nowadays Ginny has returned to her studio and her love affair with pastels. “However,” Ginny confessed as she freed a canvas from

a stack of works in progress and mounted the large oil painting on an easel, “You can see that I’m just beginning to branch out.” Experimenting with oils, she first produced a set of still life paintings. It was a risk because, as she explains, “with pastels I know when a work is finished; with oils I have to ask myself, ‘Am I done or should I do more?’ ” The small oil paintings were her first attempts but, when one sold, she gained the confidence to try larger canvases and also to leave her studio and go out into the field and paint, as the French say, “en plein air,” in the open air. To work out of doors means to go outside, set up an easel, fight the wind and weather, battle with insects, and deal with shifting light to paint Mother Nature on her own terms. Ginny prefers to paint outdoors in the early morning (when light is diffused) or in the evening (when long shadows emerge). She has tried plein air painting with both pastels and oils and has sought to capture true colors as well as “pushing” colors to more abstract levels. She has participated in Moab and Escalante Plein Air Festivals and is excited to keep expanding her craft. Asked to recall the high points of her career, Ginny lists three. She was once invited to be a featured artist at the Philadelphia Art Museum’s Sales Gallery. And a few years ago one of her landscapes achieved an honorable mention as one of the best 100 pastels selected by the prestigious artists’ trade magazine, The Pastel Journal. Two years ago, she went to Italy for a plein air workshop in Tuscany. The presenter was Boulder/Evergreen artist Elizabeth Mowrey, a prolific artist and author and a master member of the Pastel Society

of America. Ginny began to describe the Italian workshop and then she stopped with a laugh, “Imagine that,” she smiled, “I went all the way to Italy to take a workshop from

someone who lives right here in Colorado.” For more information regarding Ginny and her work, contact her by email: vlwpastel@aol.com.

Photo by Don Benjamin

Artist Ginny Wise in her Cedaredge studio

Photo by Don Benjamin

An 11x14-inch plein air painting reﬂecting natural color.

Photo by Don Benjamin

An 18x7-inch plein air painting with vibrant colors that reinterpret reality.

Photo by Don Benjamin

Adding ﬁnishing touches to a pastel work in progress.

Photo by Don Benjamin

This 2x4-foot work is one of Ginny’s largest experiments with oil painting.