Delta County Independent, Dec. 27, 2017 by Delta County Independent

NORTH FORK TIMES

SURFACE CREEK NEWS

THE BOTTOM LINE

New businesses boost sales tax revenues in Paonia, Hotchkiss, B1

SPORTS

REACHING NEW HEIGHTS CMS climbing wall challenges climbers of all ages, abilities, C1

DELTA COUNTY

DOWN TO THE WIRE Paonia wins dual on final match of the competition, C3

DECEMBER 27, 2017 VOL. 134, NO. 52

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INDEPENDENT

www.deltacountyindependent.com

Search for hotel developer picks up • Update financial projections as project assumptions The City of Delta has are defined; • Continue to assist in engaged the services of Better City to move the city for- preparing proposals and preward on the gateway project. sentations to taxing entities A name-brand hotel near the regarding public participaGunnison River is the center- tion; • Identify additional uses piece of the effort. Better City was the con- that will complement hotel and begin sultant that conducted an development economic assessment of Delta recruiting relevant developers County in 2014-2015 to iden- once hotel project is secured. • Update grant fundtify economic development opportunities that would put ing schedule for riverfront Delta County on the path improvements and coordinate toward prosperity in the wake with DURA and the City of of coal mine closures. The Delta on funding strategies gateway project emerged as a for grant applications. The nine-month contract major focus. The hotel is expected to amounts to $2,500 per month. reduce “leakage” to Montrose “A lot of what you’re paying and Grand Junction, while for is Better City’s background serving as a base camp for vis- and understanding of this itors exploring outdoor attrac- project,” city manager David tions and sampling food, beer Torgler commented at the Dec. Photo by Don Benjamin 19 city council meeting. and wine in the area. In describing its scope of In August, the city received additional grant funds to work, Better City reported it Delta County’s long-awaited snow arrived on Dec. 21 — the official first day of winter. The move forward with the gate- was previously able to secure brief storm was followed by more new powder on Christmas Day. Folks in Delta were way project, one of the top a letter of interest from a repsurprised to wake to about half an inch of snow on the ground. Snowfall was estimated projects identified in Better utable hotel developer to conat about three inches in Cedaredge. struct an $8 million riverfront City’s feasibility study. The city’s share of expenses will hotel. Use of the singular “develbe $2,250. For a total fee of $22,500, oper” in the proposed scope of work prompted comments Better City will: • Continue to work with a from council member Gerhotel developer, Delta Urban ald Roberts during considerRenewal Authority and land- ation of the professional serowner on pre-development vices agreement. He wanted efforts for the hotel at the assurance Better City would seek proposals from multiple riverfront gateway site; seats and be asked to con- sales tax already imposed by BY PAT SUNDERLAND • Work with property own- developers. “We shouldn’t be sider taxation on the sale of the city. Managing Editor ers, developers and DURA to dealing with a developer; we The ballot question must At the municipal election marijuana, even though sales secure control of the project should have an open market,” are currently prohibited. contain an estimate of the proscheduled for April 3, Delta site for other future develop- he said. ceeds that would be generated A petition is being circuvoters will fill two council ment; HOTEL DEVELOPER TO A3 lated that asks Delta City by the tax on marijuana. The Council to reconsider a 2013 city estimated those revenues ordinance prohibiting retail at $325,000 in excise tax and marijuana stores, marijuana $275,000 in sales tax. cultivation facilities, retail City manager David Torgler marijuana products manufac- explained the estimates are turing and marijuana testing based on sales in other comfacilities within the City of munities in Colorado, which Delta. were found to vary greatly. If a sufficient number of Sales tax revenues in Trinidad signatures is collected on the rang in at $6 million, he said, petition, the question will go but that city is easily reached to the city council. If council by residents of Texas, Oklahodeclines to repeal the marijua- ma and New Mexico. The best na ordinance, a special elec- estimates, he said, came from tion will be scheduled. the communities of Ridgway, City clerk Jolene Nelson Cortez and Gunnison. The April ballot will be consaid the special election could potentially take place in July. ducted by mail and will also If either the city council or the include candidates for District voters open the door to mari- C and an at-large position. Petijuana sales, the city wants to tions will be available from the immediately be able to collect city clerk Jan. 2, but the race taxes. The other alternative is already generating interest. is to wait and see if sales Kevin Carlson, Jay Stooksberare approved, then put the ry and Christi Prettyman have tax question before voters in indicated they plan to run for November, a move that could the at-large seat, and Nathan cost the city tax revenue. Clay has indicated interest in Although several coun- the District C position. Those cil members have previously seats are currently held by Ed Photo by Pat Sunderland expressed opposition to mari- Sisson, who is term limited, juana sales, they unanimously and Bill Raley, who is not seekapproved the wording of the ing re-election. Due to the lack of rain or snow, Devil’s Thumb Golf Club is taking steps to protect the Candidates must be U.S. ballot question. grass on the course. Wilma Erven, director of parks, recreation and golf for the city, With voter approval, an citizens, at least 18 years of reports that neighboring courses have closed to protect their grass. Devil’s Thumb has excise tax of 5 percent would age and must have resided in opted to confine golf carts to paths only. The next step, she said, will be to park the be placed on the sale of unpro- the City of Delta for 12 concarts and require golfers to walk the 18-hole course. As a last resort, the course may be cessed retail marijuana. Retail secutive months prior to elecclosed briefly to avoid the costly prospect of re-seeding the course. Golf course manager marijuana products would be tion. Additional information is Ken Brown reports the irrigation system has been winterized, but some spot watering is taxed at a rate of 2 percent, available from the city clerk at being done using rinsed-out weed sprayers. in addition to the municipal 874-7902.

BY PAT SUNDERLAND Managing Editor

A white Christmas

Marijuana tax, council seats slated for April ballot

Cart restrictions take effect

INDEX

Schools increase reliance on state

County unemployment drops

Accent ........................... A4 Activities ....................... A7 Church ............................B6 Classifieds .................. D1-2 Editorial ......................... A2 Legals ......................... D3-4 North Fork Times ........B1-5 Obituaries ..................... A6 School Zone .................. A8 Service Directory ........ D5 Sports ..........................B3-4 Surface Creek News ...C1-2 TV Listings ..................B3-4

Assessed valuation in Delta County Joint School District #50 dropped substantially in 2017, particularly in the portion of Gunnison County that lies in district boundaries, but the school district mill levy remains steady. The general fund mill levy has been frozen at 22.656 by the state for almost 10 years, according to Jim Ventrello, 50J business manager, and will generate an estimated $7,852,081. The school district would be looking at a revenue decline of $1.5 million, except for the fact that the state is required to make up the difference. State funding contributes more than $25 million to district operations annually, an amount that grows every year. “We’ve become more and more dependent on the state,” Ventrello said. Without state funding, the mill levy would be 110 mills for the calendar year 2018. The school board also certified an abatement levy of 0.113, to generate $39,163, and a bond redemption levy of 5.494 to generate $1,904,102.

The size of the county’s labor force has increased over the past year, but so has the number of people reported as employed. A report on Colorado’s employment situation released last week shows a total labor force of 14,841 in November 2017, up about a thousand from November 2016. Over the same period of time, the unemployment rate dropped from 4.2 percent to 3.6 percent. The neighboring counties of Mesa and Montrose report unemployment rates of 3.7 percent and 3.0 percent, respectively, for November 2017. The state’s unemployment rate is 2.9 percent, far below the national unemployment rate of 4.1 percent. According to the Colorado Department of Labor and Employment, the largest private sector gain in the state has been in construction.

A2 Wednesday, December 27, 2017

OPINION

LETTERS Closing the gap between haves and have nots Dear Editor: In his letter to the editor of Dec. 13, “Nullifying the estate tax,” David Lindbergh outlined a utopian and unsubstantiated description of the trickle down theory. The more money and power structured into the system for the top tiers of society the more they will spend on houses, cars and boats, etc. hiring others to maintain

their growing assets and thus the benefits trickle down. The stock market is booming. The wealthy are getting wealthier. How’s this working out for you? Where are all these promised great jobs that will logically come into existence when the upper crust has the means to invest and innovate? The vast majority of jobs available are for cor-

Ag, energy work well together Dear Editor: Evidently anti-energy activists are going to try again even though their attempt in 2016 didn’t even make the ballot. The language they filed seeks “2,500-foot buffer zones between oil and gas development and occupied buildings, such as homes and schools and vulnerable areas, such as playgrounds and drinking water sources.” Not only is this buffer zone needlessly excessive, it has devastating consequences for the ag community. Ag and energy have worked together

collaboratively for years, and this proposal blatantly flies in the face of that partnership. This tells me one of two things is happening. Either whoever’s proposing this hasn’t considered the impact on agriculture in Colorado, or they don’t care. Whichever is true, our action remains the same. We must reject this misguided ballot measure for the sake of both our energy prosperity and our agricultural community. Passing this would obliterate both. Keira Bresnahan Grand Junction

Blessed with natural resources Dear Editor: I caught wind of a recent report from the Bureau of Economic Analysis from the U.S. Department of Commerce touting growth in GDP across a multitude of states. Leading the charge? Mining. The mining industry grew by 28.6 percent in the second quarter of 2017, and contributed to growth in 49 states. The reason cited — increases in oil and gas production. We on the West Slope have been through mul-

tiple booms and busts of the oil and gas industry, but it’s important to remember even in the slower times, how profound the ripple effects of oil and gas production are. We have a rich history of mining in this part of the state, and the fact that oil and gas is driving growth in that sector is remarkable. I think we should all feel blessed to live in a state so abundant in natural resources. Nina Anderson Grand Junction

porations that put maximum focus on profits for owners and investors and use the trickle down method in structuring employee salaries and benefits. Vast segments of our society are working full time or as many hours as they are scheduled to (it’s cost effective to keep employees on as part time so as no benefits have to be doled out), for exorbitantly high earning conglomerates while living in poverty. Many full-time workers qualify for food stamps and other social programs because wages are so low and the cost of living continues to climb. Living in poverty sucks the marrow out of your bones, leaching out any sense of well-being. Hopelessness causes so many of our social woes — drug addiction, crime and blatant disregard for others. Cleaning up our mess will require wisdom from on high. Paraphrasing Jesus, how we treat those with the least amongst us is how we treat Him. The Mosaic Law is an interesting study in resource redistribution. The creator of man put into law that every seven years slaves would be freed and debts would be cancelled. And every 50 years, The Jubilee Year, tribes gained back their lands lost through payments of debt. What we can at least take from this holy law is that real checks and balances need to be in place to prevent a severe demarcation between haves and have nots. The greedy tendencies inherent in our species must be counter balanced with laws aimed at social justice for all. Or we’ll all have hell to pay. Susan Wilmot Cedaredge

Coloradans stand to benefit from tax relief legislation BY SENATOR CORY GARDNER increase in corporate profR-Colorado

Coloradans across the state are hardworking individuals who know what’s best for them, their families, and their communities. They understand that keeping more of their own money in their own pockets instead of sending it to Washington will provide them with more freedom to make their own decisions. As I travel around the state, I don’t hear Coloradans asking for Washington to take more of their hard-earned paychecks. I hear their stories about stagnant wage growth, high taxes, and an economy that isn’t growing at the pace it should. Wall Street and some metro areas may be booming, but Main Street hasn’t felt the benefits. Some communities along Colorado’s Front Range have experienced economic growth, but many in rural Colorado feel as though they can’t get ahead. They work harder and harder every year but rarely see any benefit. They are not alone. Wages across America have not increased meaningfully in a long time. One cause for that is our outdated tax system. While our corporate tax rate was competitive 30 years ago, it’s now the highest in the industrialized world. It chases business investment out of the country, meaning new plants and equipment — the things that drive up worker wages — are built in foreign countries rather than here at home. Not surprisingly, worker wages have stagnated while corporate profits continue to rise. Before 1990, a 1 percent

its was associated with worker wages going up by more than 1 percent. From 2008 to 2016, a 1 percent increase in corporate profits yielded only a 0.3 percent increase in wages. Tax relief will make our business taxes competitive again and provide the economic boost communities across Colorado have been waiting for. It brings home the $2.5 trillion in foreign profits U.S. multinationals have abroad and levels the playing field so American companies will invest here at home — creating hundreds of thousands of jobs, driving up wages, and boosting America’s economy. In fact, the day the bill passed Congress we already started to see major U.S. companies announcing investments in American workers through higher wages and capital investments. Those wages and job gains are on top of Americans of all incomes paying less in taxes. Many opponents of this once-in-a-generation tax relief package have continued to make loud, headline-grabbing noise and incorrect claims, but I struggle to understand why Coloradans having more money is a bad thing. One of the attacks we continue to hear is that this tax cut doesn’t benefit the middle class, but nothing could be further from the truth. The tax bill will go down by more than $2,000 for the average family of 4 who has a median income of $73,000. That could mean one more family trip, after-school sports programs for the kids, or even a little more money to save for a rainy day.

Doing big things isn’t easy. There has been passionate debate over the Republican vision of how to spur growth in our economy. Many opponents of this tax relief legislation sincerely question whether our economy can grow like it used to. So they respond to stagnant wages by wanting to send more money to Washington. I recognize that the way to increase wages is to grow the economy — to see what is causing businesses to invest abroad, fix it, and let American workers compete on their merits again. I am confident that this diagnosis is correct and this tax relief package that we delivered for the American people is going to have significant benefits for Colorado. Aside from the growth effects, there are many provisions in this plan that will specifically benefit Coloradans. Colorado families will receive greater tax relief for childcare services; our farm cooperatives will be treated fairly; Colorado’s booming brewing and distilling business will receive relief; and our state’s renewable energy industry will continue to flourish. I support the tax plan because it will bring relief to Coloradans living in all four corners of our great state. After years of complacency and being told we have to accept meager economic growth, the American people will once again see their economy accelerate. As government gets out of the way and lets American ingenuity thrive, our country will once again become an economic powerhouse for generations to come.

Delta County Independent

Setting the record straight on the tax bill Dear Editor: I am so tired of all the misinformation and halftruths being written and said about the GOP tax bill that I felt compelled to research and give the public straight information. All of these facts are from Forbes, Business Insider and the The U.S. Tax Foundation. Now that the final bill is out, it is easy to see what is — and isn’t — in it. Even the good parts (exemptions for up to $10K of medical expenses, student stipend tuition, child tax credits, charity or mortgage interest) expire for individuals in 10 years, at which time most of us average taxpayers will be paying more in taxes. First, how the tax breaks will be for different income levels. The top 1 percent get a 3.1 percent reduction (average $19,052), middle wage earners get a 0.5 percent increase (average $2,400), the poor get a tax decrease of 0.4 percent (just $10). But the richest 0.1 percent get 2.5 percent (average $130,170). Those are all for married earners. All single tax filers below $151,000 will see a 3 percent INCREASE in their taxes. A common statement to justify this tax plan is that the top 20 percent of income earners pay 80 percent of the taxes, and while this is true, people don’t go on to tell you that the 20 percent

income figure starts with those making $105,000/ year or more. In other words, upper middle class families where both parents work are paying the majority of the taxes. The highest earners at 0.1 percent pay just 20 percent of taxes, but consider that just three people in this group have more actual wealth than fully half the nation. Together, the 0.1 percent hold 80 percent of the wealth in the United States. Two-thirds of wage earners in America don’t make enough money to pay income taxes, although they do pay property, sales and other taxes. Forty-one million Americans live at or below the poverty line. Nine million have no income at all. The last large GOP tax break was in the mid-1980’s by President Reagan which started “trickle down economics.” This was also promised to “boost the economy.” Since then in actual dollars, the top 0.1 percent wages have increased 358 percent, the top 1 percent has increased 20 percent, the average middle class wage has increased 8 percent, and bottom wage earners just 7 percent. When adjusted to 2016 dollars, middle class wage earners bring home $18,000/year less than they did in 1984! Since then the U.S. household wealth has nearly quadrupled from $26 trillion to $97.4 trillion. That

averages out to $760,000 per family — and yet half of American families have just $11,000 total in wealth. But inequity in tax breaks, wages and income is not the greatest danger in yet another tax theft for the wealthy. When Reagan cut taxes, America’s debt was just 33 percent of our GDP. Today it is 77 percent of our GDP. In 10 years (even without the additional $1.5 trillion from this tax break) it will be $152 percent of our GDP. Do you know who carries that debt? The vast majority is carried by us, the U.S taxpayer. It is our Social Security and our Medicare, our Unemployment Insurance and government bonds that Congress is borrowing from to hand to the wealthiest people in the world. People who already have so much money, they have $23 trillion offshore that they COULD invest in America if they wanted to, right now, today. Our economy is strong right now. There is no need at all for a “boost.” Last week, when polled, only 35 percent of corporations said they would spend their tax savings on company expansion. The rest will pass it on to CEOs, shareholders and to buy back of their own stock. Is THIS worth the risk to you and your family’s future? Carol L. Nudell Eckert

Preparing students for an unforeseen future BY JOYCE RANKIN State Board of Education

I attended the Summit on Education Reform in Nashville, Tenn., where speakers and panelists from across the nation discussed directions education is taking and how our schools can prepare students for an ever changing future. Secretary of Education Betsy DeVos spoke about school choice and the role of parents in selecting the best school for their children. She continues to be an advocate for school choice to advance opportunities for all children. Several sessions highlighted success stories from students and parents who had taken advantage of school choice in their communities. In a general session we heard about the importance of technology courses at all grade levels

to prepare for future jobs that we can’t currently define. One speaker said there were over 3.5 million truck drivers in the United States. What will happen when we embrace driverless cars and trucks? This was just one example of how jobs will experience change in the future. It’s important to prepare students to adapt to changes so that the economy thrives and our citizens lead satisfying lives. Colorado currently uses blended learning and online courses to enable students to learn skills that would otherwise be unavailable at their school. An example is a student in middle school currently enrolled in an advanced calculus course online. He is joined by three other students, in various grade levels, from other school districts across the state.

Technology is opening up many opportunities that weren’t available even two years ago. It is also moving so rapidly that we need to teach the basics of computer science beginning in kindergarten. And yes, there are fun applications currently available, online, for kindergarten students. Future careers will depend on this knowledge combined with creativity and flexibility to adapt. The Colorado Department of Education with community participation is reviewing the Colorado State Standards and adding new standards for computer science. We need to prepare future teachers by including computer science in all teacher preparation programs. Joyce Rankin is on the State Board of Education representing the Third Congressional District.

Law enforcement blotter From the Delta Police Department: Due to the holidays, the Delta Police Department did not issue a blotter this week. From the Delta County Sheriff’s Office (partial list): Dec. 18: Three people escaped serious injury in a single vehicle accident on Trap Club Road near Adobe Buttes Landfill. The Colorado State Patrol handled the investigation. At about midnight, Cedaredge firefighters responded to a house fire on Cactus Park Road, Cedaredge. The fire caused a small amount of damage to the floor and wall surrounding a wood stove. Dec. 19: A case of fraud involving the sale of a Long Haul kayak is under investigation. The kayak, valued at $5,000, was shipped to a man in Bronx, N.Y., in October. He later disputed the credit card charge and allegedly advertised the boat for sale on ebay. Dec. 20: Deputies executed a search warrant at a home on Fir Avenue in Crawford. They found a small amount of white

powder that is being tested, but the quantity is not sufficient to support evidence of illegal distribution of cocaine or LSD as outlined in the search warrant. A small brush fire on Fairview Road near Austin was quickly extinguished by Cedaredge firefighters. The call came in around 7 p.m. No one was located in the vicinity and it’s unknown how the fire started. Dec. 21: A clerk at the Cory General Store contacted dispatch after a man wearing a stocking cap and camo pants came into the store carrying an assault rifle. He paid for his gas and left without acting suspiciously. Contacted later by deputies, he said he carried the rifle into the store because he didn’t feel comfortable leaving it in his vehicle. A welfare check was requested for a 49-yearold Paonia man who had threatened to drive his truck off the road. Nicki Petersen, 67, of Crawford suffered minor injuries when her vehicle hit an icy patch and slid off Highway 92 near Crawford at about 6:30 p.m. She was transported to Delta County Memorial Hospital.

Dec. 23: Deputies arrested Jodel Bitonio, 44, of Montrose on outstanding warrants out of Delta and Montrose counties. During a pat down search, they found a substance resembling methamphetamine. Bitonio faces additional charges of unlawful possession of a controlled substance and possession of drug paraphernalia. A 50-year-old Delta area woman reported her husband had hit her with his walker. Deputies responded to a family dispute on Vista Grande Drive, Orchard City, at about 11:30 p.m. Dec. 25: A man reportedly brandished a gun during a dispute on D Road in Crawford. By the time deputies arrived on the scene, both the victim and suspect had left. DELTA COUNTY

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

LOCAL NEWS

Delta County Independent

Wednesday, December 27, 2017

Hotel developer FROM PAGE A1 “And we will have,” Torgler said. “At some point it will work its way down to a single hotel developer, but that will be after proposals are received and reviewed by the DURA board.” A motion to approve the Better City agreement was made by council member Christopher Ryan and seconded by

Photo by Pat Sunderland

Park improvements

The city’s parks and public works departments collaborated on a project to grade and smooth out a new more stable, more deﬁned parking area for Conﬂuence Park users. The parking area is located near the Gunnison River boat ramp. Wilma Erven, director of parks, recreation and golf for the City of Delta, also said one of the log cabins pictured above will be moved to Fort Uncompahgre to house a gear hub for The Nature Connection. The gear hub and several other amenities will be funded by the $1.7 GOCO Inspire grant recently awarded to The Nature Connection.

Teens celebrate New Year’s

Roberts, but only to move the question to a vote in the absence of two of the five council members. In the final vote, he cast a nay vote while Ryan and Ron Austin, sitting in as mayor pro-tem, voted in favor of the agreement. Throughout the fall, Better City has been updating anticipated tax incentive revenues, which in turn affect the amount of bonding DURA will be able to obtain for the gateway project. For that reason, the contract is

dated from Oct. 17, 2017, until July 17, 2018. The exact amount of tax incentive financing available for bond repayments will not be known until mediation with the Delta County Fire District and Delta County Mosquito Control District has taken place. Both taxing entities declined to share tax increments with DURA. All three entities are attempting to come to agreement on the mediator to be used in the discussion.

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Teens are invited to • Acupuncture • Massage Therapy a black light New Year’s noon party. Wear your • Cupping • Facials • Supplement Store neon-colored clothes and bring your �� friends for �� food, music and games. �� The party will be held at the Delta Library Satur�� day, Dec. 30, at 11 a.m.

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Remediation focuses on West’s BY PAT SUNDERLAND Managing Editor

And then there was one. Of the five blighted properties targeted for remediation by the City of Delta, only one appears to be viable. Three of the five properties identified by city staff are considered historic and would require extensive assessments. The fourth, the building at 520 Highway 92 formerly occupied by Odyssey Construction, is owned by Kevin Lee, who refuses to sell the property to the city. Under the conditions of a Community Development Block Grant (CDBG), the city has

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to own the property in order for grant funding to be used for remediation. Lee doesn’t want to sell his property to the city, so that leaves only West’s Home Center. At a work session on Dec. 19, city manager David Torgler asked council to permit the city to submit a revised grant application that focuses only on the vacant West’s on Main Street. Council agreed, but not before hearing from Kevin Lee, who said he feels he is being “muscled” out of his property Photo by Pat Sunderland so the city can re-align The building that formerly housed West’s Home Henry Street. The build- Center has sat vacant for several years. ing at 520 Highway 92 is “solid as a rock,” he said, Unfortunately, he can’t help you, so you can ultiand it would be ridicuuse it for the purpose he mately help us as a city lous to level it. with your business.” intended, either. His wife envisioned an antique store or coffee shop in the quonset hut, while he planned to use the fenced and covered area to the south to store equipment he uses to inspect power line poles. But the property is located in the B2 zone, which precludes �� storage of construction �� and contractor’s equip�� ment. The building was �� used precisely for that �� purpose in the past, but sat vacant for quite some �� time; equipment storage �� is now considered a non�� conforming use. �� In addition, a property line survey revealed a portion of the building is built out into the street and into the setback. Council member Ron Austin invited Lee to the work session to open a discussion into a possible �� land swap that would still allow the city to re-align �� Henry Street. “I know �� you’ve had some discus�� sions and what you’ve heard left a bad taste in your mouth. I would like to see what we can do to

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Network seeks bigger investment in education BY PAT SUNDERLAND Managing Editor

Delta County Joint School District has joined the Colorado Education Network, a statewide coalition committed to the goal of adequate and equitable funding of public education in Colorado. According to the resolution, per pupil funding in 50J is $928.60 below pre-recession levels, when adjusted for inflation. “Wise and adequate investment in Colorado schools is essential to maintaining and improving the competitiveness of Colorado and its students,” the resolution states. Members of the Colorado Education Network recognize “the need for action and are committed to staying informed about, and engaged in, efforts to better invest in the education of each and every Colorado student.”

A4 Wednesday, December 27, 2017

ACCENT

Delta County Independent

Meal sites close for holiday The senior center meal Olathe will all be closed The regular schedule sites at Delta, Cedaredge, Monday, Jan. 1, for the will resume at all senior Hotchkiss, Paonia, and New Year’s Day holiday. 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. The boards of directors of the five senior centers, the Delta County Council on Aging, and Senior CommUnity Meals wish everyone a Happy New Year!

BIRTHS ��

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

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Sponsored by:

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NOON YEAR’S EVE EXTRAVAGANZA FOR YOUTH

FREE

Sunday, December 31 11:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m.

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Food • Games • Fun

FREE

As part of the National Hunger and Homelessness Awareness Week in November, three Delta County restaurants donated a portion of their sales to the Abraham Connection Homeless Shelter in the inaugural Dine Out Delta County event. Funds have been dedicated to helping guests staying at the shelter with case management issues, such as funding the replacement of lost or stolen photo IDs and other barriers to self-sufﬁciency. Participating restaurants included Java Hut and Davetos in Delta, and 4B’s Brewery in Cedaredge. Pictured are Bev Stutzman, manager of Java Hut; shelter board members Shelly Galloway, Cheryl Oeltjenbruns and Lance Boren; 4B’s manager Brandy Atencio and owner Barb Breitnauer; and shelter board member Darla Volgamore. “We are very grateful for the support of the entire Delta County community, and for the support of these restaurants,” Volgamore said. More information about the shelter can be found at deltaabrahamconnection.org.

Senior meals listed for January

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Josh and Erin Solaas of Paonia are the parents of a son, Jaxon Dale Solaas, born Dec. 21, 2017, at Delta County Memorial Hospital. He weighed 7 pounds and was 19.5 inches in length.

Grateful for support

Photo submitted

Music by The Rhythm Knights DJ Service YOUTH OF ALL AGES WELCOME!

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

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FREE

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and Paonia Senior Citizen Center, 527-3435. The menu through Jan. 31 follows: Tuesday, Jan. 2 — Beef, cheese and rice burrito with green sauce, lettuce, tomato and onion, refried beans and churro. Wednesday, Jan. 3 — Roast beef with mashed potatoes and gravy, kidney bean salad, broccoli, homemade wheat roll and birthday cake. Thursday, Jan. 4 — BBQ chicken breast, potato salad, bell pepper, carrots and onions, cornbread and cinnamon roll. Friday, Jan. 5 — Cheddar cheeseburger on whole wheat bun, lettuce, onion and tomato, potato wedges, baked beans and fruit cocktail. Monday, Jan. 8 — Italian chicken breast, pea and cheese salad, potatoes O’Brien, stewed tomatoes, homemade roll and apple crisp with vanilla ice cream. Tuesday, Jan. 9 — Potato crusted cod, fishhouse coleslaw, tartar sauce, potato wedges, homemade wheat roll and fresh apple. Wednesday, Jan. 10 — Salisbury steak, fresh veggies salad, mashed potatoes with gravy, homemade wheat roll and fruit compote. Thursday, Jan. 11 — Roast turkey, mashed potatoes with gravy, California blend veggies, whole wheat roll and birthday cake. Friday, Jan. 12 — Beef and sausage lasagna, tossed salad with tomato, green beans, garlic bread

BIRTHS Michael and Jana Hindson of Delta are the parents of a daughter, Haylea Jo Hindson, born Dec. 13, 2017, at Delta County Memorial Hospital. She weighed 8 pounds, 0.6 ounce and was 21 inches in length. Dustin and Jenesse Sammons of Cedaredge are the parents of a son, Mason Taylor Sammons, born Dec. 15, 2017, at Delta County Memorial Hospital. He weighed 6 pounds, 2.4 ounces and was 19.25 inches in length. Winston and Rebecca Lechleiter of Montrose are the parents of a son, Caleb Barrett Lechleiter, born Dec. 20, 2017, at Delta County Memorial Hospital. He weighed 8 pounds, 6 ounces and was 20.9 inches in length. Kevin and Dortha Gallegos of Austin are the parents of a daughter, Kharlie Dean Gallegos, born Dec. 20, 2017, at Delta County Memorial Hospital. She weighed 7 pounds, 8.8 ounces and was 19.5 inches in length.

and peaches. Monday, Jan. 15 — Chicken enchilada casserole, Spanish rice, hot black bean salad and pineapple tidbits. Tuesday, Jan. 16 — Beef stew with potatoes, Italian veggie salad, carrots, celery and onions, onion rye roll and peach crisp with vanilla ice cream. Wednesday, Jan. 17 — Pepperoni and beef pizza, calico veggie salad, zucchini, tomatoes and onions, and pineapple. Thursday, Jan. 18 — Meat loaf with tomato glaze, mashed potatoes and gravy, three bean salad, broccoli and carrots, and Greek yogurt with blueberries. Friday, Jan. 19 — Ham and beans, cottage cheese and mandarin oranges, cornbread, parsley carrots and oatmeal raisin cookie. Monday, Jan. 22 — Chicken noodle casserole, marinated carrot salad,

broccoli, homemade wheat roll and bread pudding. Tuesday, Jan. 23 — Chili con carne with cheddar cheese, diced onion, pea and cheese salad, cornbread and fruit cocktail. Wednesday, Jan. 24 — Roast turkey with cranberry sauce, whipped sweet potatoes, green bean casserole, homemade wheat roll and pumpkin pie with whipped topping. Thursday, Jan. 25 — Spaghetti with meat sauce, parmesan cheese, Italian veggies, homemade breadstick and diced peaches. Friday, Jan. 26 — Pork and green chili stew with corn tortilla, pinto beans, fiesta veggies and PBOK cookie. Monday, Jan. 29 — Ham loaf, Italian veggie pasta salad, scalloped potatoes, whole wheat roll and cinnamon applesauce.

Photos submitted

The ugly winners

Winners of the annual ugly sweater contest at Delta County Memorial Hospital were (left to right) Samantha Heinze, medical assistant from physical medicine/rheumatology, third place; Darla Ballard, physician billing supervisor, second place; and Claudia Beltran from housekeeping, ﬁrst place. Below, “Maude” the skeleton from medical records, lines up with some of the 35 hospital employees competing to win top honors.

LOCAL NEWS

Delta County Independent

Wednesday, December 27, 2017

Researcher to present talk on mountain lions

Photos by Pat Sunderland

All aboard for fun

Lincoln Elementary School’s WinterFest featured food, pictures with Santa, karaoke, a door decorating contest, a silent art auction and games — including the reindeer toss with ﬁfth grade teachers Jesse Kendig (pictured), Jeffrey Erickson and Mike Chastain. Below, Karen Long and her children, Izzy, Conner and Olivia, exchange homework passes for donations of canned goods. Decorations throughout the school were inspired by the “Polar Express,” a book by Chris Van Allsburg that was later made into a popular holiday movie. The journey through the school hallways — marked by “tracks” laid down on the carpet with tape — was almost as magical as trip to the North Pole described in the award-winning book.

The much-maligned and even more misunderstood mountain lion has prowled the mountain west for tens of thousand of years. It is one of the most adaptable large predators ranging from Alaska to Patagonia and inhabits virtually every habitat in the Americas from the eastern woodlands and western deserts, to the Everglades, the jungles of Central and South America, and the high Andes. Dr. Ken Logan, a research biologist for the Colorado Division of Parks and Wildlife, will give a presentation on mountain lions Thursday, Jan. 4, at the Montrose Field House. Logan has studied mountain lion demographics, behavior, social organization and

lion-human interactions. He just completed a 10year study on the impacts of sport hunting on the lion population of the Uncompahgre Plateau. He has researched mountain lions in Wyoming, New Mexico, California, and Colorado. Logan has a PhD in wildlife science from the University of Idaho. His presentation will start at 7 p.m. and is open to the public. The Montrose Field House (the former aquatic center) is located at 25 Colorado Avenue in Montrose at the corner of Rio Grande Avenue. There is no charge. The program is sponsored by the Black Canyon Chapter of the Audubon Society. For more information call 970-497-0376.

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Happy New Year!

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Photo by Rick Smith

Home for the holidays

This buck has made himself at home in a Garnet Mesa neighborhood, content to browse on grass and drink from a back yard pond.

Supplemental budget approved BY ANNETTE BRAND Staff Writer

Delta County Commissioners passed a supplemental budget for 2017 at their Dec. 18 meeting. The supplemental budget addresses circumstances not foreseen at the time the 2017 budget was adopted. The Fairgrounds Fund was increased by $15,000 to cover unexpected power repair for the covered arena, increasing the fund from $110,250 to $125,250. The Lodging Tax-Tourism Fund was increased by $25,000 to cover additional direct advertising and grant related expenses. The Lodging Tax-Tourism Fund budget increased from $64,200 to $89,200. The Contingency Fund was increased from $8,037 to $58,037 by the transfer of Secure Rural Schools Title III funds in the amount of $50,000. An additional CCI Public Lands contribution increased the PILT Fund budget by $1,000, increasing its budget

Holiday closure Delta County Libraries will be closed Monday, Jan. 1, for New Year’s Day.

amount from $613,000 to $614,000. The Human Services Fund increased from $3,915,805 to $3,965,805 because of additional Medicaid transportation expenses of $50,000. The Self Insurance Fund was increased from $35,000 to $85,000 to cover unexpected damage to the health department building which is projected to cost $50,000. The additional amounts required to balance the 2017 budget were appropriated from either unanticipated revenue in that fund and/or unappropriated revenue in that fund.

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A6 Wednesday, December 27, 2017

OBITUARIES Arlette Jardon

Tillie Jackson

Delta resident Tillie M. Jackson died Dec. 19, 2017, at the HopeWest Hospice Care Center in Grand Junction. She was 80. Cremation has taken place and inurnment will be held at a later date at Mesa View Cemetery. Tillie Marie Montano was born May 12, 1937, to Ignacio and Nellie (McCumber) Montano in Husted. She spent her childhood in Divide, Cripple Creek and on the Montano Family Ranch. On Nov. 2, 1957, she married Albert Jackson in Raton, N.M. The Jacksons moved to Delta in 1979. She enjoyed coloring, cooking, sewing, gardening, yard work and spending time with family. She is survived by her children, Milton (Dixie) Jackson of Fort Morgan, Gregory (Debra) Jackson of Delta and Lisa (Dallas) Turner of Nucla; sister, Marion Mitchell of Colorado Springs; sisterin-law, Beth Montano of Cañon City; six grandchildren; and 10 greatgrandchildren. Mrs. Jackson was preceded in death by her husband, Albert; son, Randall Jackson; two brothers, Alfred and Joseph Montano; and two sisters, Betty Hulstrom and Emma Thomas. Memorial contributions may be made to HopeWest, PO Box 24, Delta, CO 81416. Taylor Funeral Service and Crematory is handling the arrangements. Visit the internet obituary and sign the online guest registry at www. taylorfuneralservice.com.

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Hotchkiss resident Arlette Joan Jardon died Dec. 21, 2017. She was 78. Memorial services will be held at 10 a.m. Saturday, Dec. 30, at the First Baptist Church in Hotchkiss. Mrs. Jardon was a homemaker and retired cook. She was a member of the First Baptist Church of Hotchkiss. Survivors include David Jacobson, her partner in life; two sons, David (Theresa) Jardon of Phoeniz, Ariz., and Ronald Jardon; two grandchildren, Lilly and Ethan Jardon; siblings, M. Gary Sprague and G. Judith Herrington of Hamburg, N.Y., and Georgia (Stephen) Meacham of Grand Junction. Memorial contributions can be made to the children’s summer camp fund at the First Baptist Church of Hotchkiss. Taylor Funeral Service and Crematory is handling the arrangements. Visit the internet obituary and sign the online guest registry at www. taylorfuneralservice.com.

Gary James

Delta resident Gary K. James died Dec. 25, 2017, at Willow Tree Care Center in Delta. He was 75. A funeral service will be held at First Baptist Church in Delta at 10 a.m. Saturday, Dec. 30, with visitation beginning at 9 a.m., prior to the service. Mr. James was born in Bayfield to George and Hazel (Wheeler) James on May 1, 1942. He spent his childhood in Grand

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Junction and Steamboat Springs, moving to Delta in 1954 and then to Olathe. He graduated from Olathe High School in 1961 and attended Mesa Community College earning an associate’s degree. On Oct. 1, 1966, he married Leanna Parkinson in Delta. Mr. James was a member of the First Baptist Church in Delta. He owned and operated Hometown Electric. He enjoyed fishing, fly-fishing, hunting and spending time with his grandchildren. He is survived by his wife of 51 years, Leanna James of Delta; children, Melvin (Toni) James of Delta, William “Bill”

James of Delta, Cindra (Tim) Thompson of Denver, and Gail (Gary) Gibson of Delta; brother, Carl (Judith) James of Helena, Mont.; sister, Kathy (Skip) Standish of Delta; nine grandchildren; six great-grandchildren with one on the way; and extended family. He was preceded in death by one brother, Ronald James. Memorial contributions may be made to House of Promise Teen Challenge, 7750 6025 Road, Olathe, CO 81425. Taylor Funeral Service and Crematory is handling the arrangements. Visit the internet obituary and sign the online guest registry at www. taylorfuneralservice.com.

Delta County Independent

Helen Sample

Paonia resident Helen M. Sample died Dec. 14, 2017, at her daughter’s home in Paonia. She was 76. Services will be held at a later date. Helen M. Neubury was born Dec. 5, 1941, to Edward and Myrtle Neubury in Colorado. She spent her childhood and attended school in Englewood. She worked for Goodwill Industries in Denver for 15 years. Mrs. Sample was a member of Paonia Christian Fellowship since she moved to Paonia three years ago, and enjoyed needlepoint, puzzles and watching Walker, Texas Ranger.

She is survived by her daughter, Kathleen Ann (Ellis) Bateman; son-inlaw, Richard Bateman; two grandchildren; and seven great-grandchildren. Taylor Funeral Service and Crematory is handling the arrangements. Visit the internet obituary and sign the online guest registry at www. taylorfuneralservice.com.

Frances LeGault

Frances Elaine LeGault died Dec. 24, 2017, at her home in Delta. She was 97. A celebration of life will be held at a later date. Arrangements are under the care of Crippin Funeral Home and Crematory.

LOCAL NEWS

Lawsuit cites lack of transparency STAFF REPORT

Delta County Citizen Report (DCCR), which describes itself as “an apolitical, nonprofit media organization reporting on Delta County government activities,” filed suit last week against the Delta County Board of County Commissioners alleging violations of state statutes designed to promote transparency in government. News of the lawsuit prompted county attorney John Baier to reiterate the county’s stance that its budget and open meetings processes are in compliance with state statutes. “We remain dedicated to transparency and to service to our citizens,” he said in a written response. “Delta County has consistently been committed to effective, thorough and appropriate communication. As always, we continue to welcome meaningful discussions about how we can better communicate with the public.”

Attorney Michael King with Gunnison Law and Mediation filed the complaint and motion for permanent injunction on behalf of DCCR. The suit alleges that routine practices of the Board of County Commissioners violate Sunshine Law and the Local Government Budget Law of Colorado. A press release issued by DCCR last week outlines specific areas of concern, some of which have been addressed in letters to the editor from JoAnn Kalenak, administrator of DCCR’s Facebook page. She also has a blog where she comments on county commissioner meetings, county projects, county development plans, county policies, and county budget and finance. She cites the BoCC’s procedure of posting agendas without complete access to the public for a full 24 hours; the board’s failure to adopt a policy requiring public notice of meetings and final agendas on the county website;

the regular procedure of changing the agendas less than 24 hours from the meetings, with the regular practice of doing it at the actual meeting; the use of a “Commissioner’s Calendar of Events” as appropriate public meeting notice; refusal to acknowledge business meetings involving a quorum of county commissioners as public meetings; and lack of adequate detail in the posted agendas. “Significant policymaking occurs during the Delta County board’s unnoticed or improperly noticed meetings,” the suit alleges. “The board has entered into agreements, developed policy and mandated letters of support for various agencies, organizations and special interest

groups all without public participation.” The suit also cites limited opportunities for public involvement and citizen participation in decision making, and cites a lack of transparency in the county budget. Prior to filing suit, attorney King outlined some of the organization’s complaints and asked for an arbitrated meeting to resolve the issues. According to DCCR, the board declined the request, which led to the civil action. On Nov. 20, the board did respond to a 2.5-page formal complaint about how the county budget is prepared, answering every allegation on a point-by-point basis. The response has been posted to the county website.

Due to a production error, this story and “Nature Connection awarded $1.7M” (below) were not printed in their entirety in the Dec. 20 edition. To rectify the mistake, both stories are reprinted here.

Nature Connection awarded $1.7M STAFF REPORT

On Dec. 15, the Great Outdoors Colorado (GOCO) board awarded an Inspire Initiative grant in the amount of $1,729,663.50 to Delta County and a coalition of partners called The Nature Connection (TNC), for the group’s work to get kids outside. Locally, announcement of the award was made at opening night of the 2017 Backcountry Film Festival opened in Paonia. Anita Evans, director of TNC, excitedly displayed the check from GOCO. “We have worked, along with our partners, for over two years to come up with a very detailed plan to connect kids to

the outdoors through The Nature Connection with this grant,” she said. The TNC board, which includes representation from the school district, Delta County, Colorado Parks & Wildlife, U.S. Forest Service, town governments, and other local organizations, worked diligently with community partners and resources to create a competitive grant application submitted in July 2017. The grant will fund extensive place, program, and pathway development in six communities, Delta, Olathe, Cedaredge, Hotchkiss, Paonia, and Crawford, along with 140 youth internships and seven community jobs

over the three-year grant cycle. The program is expected to impact more than 6,000 youth in the area. Funding for trail and park development, the expansion and installation of gear hubs in Hotchkiss, Delta and Cedaredge, and plans for educational outdoor programming are all included in the grant award. A portion of the grant supports executive director and program director positions for The Nature Connection. Delta County School District advertised the positions beginning Dec. 5; the application period ended Dec. 18. Evans hopes to announce the filled positions in

early 2018. The grant application included an over $1.2 million match from community sponsors and organizations. “We could not have accomplished this without our partners,” Evans explains. Delta County’s grant is one of nine Inspire Initiative implementation awards made in this cycle totaling $14.125 million. The funding brings GOCO’s investment in Inspire to date to more than $29 million, including a $4 million grant from the Colorado Health Foundation, a $75,000 grant from the Boettcher Foundation for rural communities, and a $50,000 donation from DaVita.

Colorado’s employment, population growth expected to slow in 2018

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Colorado’s employment and population growth will slow for a third consecutive year in 2018. The state will stay competitive in recruiting and every major sector will add jobs according to an economic outlook released by the Leeds School of Business at CU Boulder. The outlook features forecasts and trends for 13 key business sectors across Colorado, the population and the national economy. The 140-page report also breaks down economic trends for several regions across the state. Overall, Colorado is projected to add 47,100 jobs in 2018, an increase of 1.8 percent, according to the forecast. “The national unemployment numbers are low, but the state unemployment numbers are incredibly low,” said Richard Wobbekind, executive director of the Business Research Division. The report outlines good news for workers as

the low unemployment numbers should lead to increasing wages across a variety of sectors, he said. The labor shortage may, however, lead businesses to replace workers with machines or other technology. The population will grow 90,600, Wobbekind said. Most of that growth will come from people moving to Colorado. Regional Economic Highlights Boulder County: The area continues to outperform the state with a highly educated workforce, a high quality of life and a world-class research university. Carson County: Low commodity prices and the prison closure put eastern Colorado in a difficult economic position. Farm conditions are stabilizing, but balance sheets will continue to be less than stellar. Tourism is a bright spot, with strong visitor numbers at the Colorado Welcome Center along Interstate 70.

La Plata County: Tech and the outdoor industry are doing well. The Southwest Colorado Accelerator for Entrepreneurs (SCAPE) is helping entrepreneurial ventures. Demand for construction and real estate will slowly provide a foundation for growth. Optimism among business leaders remains high, but underemployment is expected to continue. Mesa County: Mesa County added as many people to its population in 2016 as it did in the five years between 2010 and 2015. Employment was nearly flat in 2017, but the business and economic outlook is trending upward. A declining unemployment rate, growing business diversification, and a strong real estate market position Mesa County for growth in 2018. Northern Colorado: With a highly educated workforce and growing technology and entrepreneurship sectors, Weld

and Larimer counties are more attractive than ever. Weld County continues to be a leader in agriculture production exports. Pueblo: In 2017, the Pueblo area marked its lowest unemployment since 2000, at 3.5 percent. The aerospace, hemp, and rail industries set up the Pueblo area for further growth in 2018. Southern Colorado: While Colorado Springs has traditionally lagged behind Denver and Boulder, that is no longer true. El Paso County added more than 10,000 jobs in the last year. Increased productivity is boosting the standard of living and the quality of life. The city is on track to outperform the nation in employment and wage increases. That should continue in 2018, making the region a smart choice for business growth and new investment. For a hard copy of the outlook, contact Andrew Sorensen at andrew. sorensen@colorado.edu or 720-982-6878.

Delta County Independent

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ACTIVITIES

Wednesday, December 27, 2017

Enjoy winter at Black Canyon of the Gunnison National Park Enjoy winter with your friends at Black Canyon of the Gunnison National Park. Ranger guided programs are designed to help you get started on experiencing the snow. Ski clinics and snowshoe walks are dependent upon snow conditions. Call the South Rim Visitor Center for updates at 970-249-1914, ext. 423 Cross-country ski clin-

Opals featured in program Rock Wranglers will meet at 7 p.m. Thursday, Jan. 4, at the Calvary Baptist Church, 1290 A Street, Delta. The program will be a presentation by Del Canty on opals. Everyone is welcome.

ics — Saturday, Dec. 30, and Saturday, Jan. 6, 1 p.m. Learn the basics of cross-country skiing. This two-hour clinic will cover simple striding and gliding and traveling in variable terrain and snow conditions. Meet at South Rim Visitor Center. You must provide your own ski equipment. Reservations required: (970) 2491914, ext. 423. Snowshoe walks — Jan. 13 – March 3, 10 a.m. Saturdays and 1 p.m. Sundays. Meet at South Rim Visitor Center. No special skill is needed to participate in these 1.5 mile walks. Allow 2.5 hours for the program. Snowshoes are available to use, free of charge, for these programs. Reservations required: (970) 2491914, ext. 423. Full moon open house — Wednesday, Jan. 31, and Thursday, Feb. 1.

Cross-country ski tours offered on Grand Mesa Explore the spectacular groomed ski trails on the Grand Mesa with guides from the Grand Mesa Nordic Council. Whether you’re new to the Grand Mesa or new to cross-country skiing, a guided tour is a terrific way to enjoy a winter adventure with other outdoor enthusiasts. As you enjoy the natural winter beauty we’ll learn some basic cross-country skills, cross-country ski etiquette, equipment tips

and tips on how to safely explore GMNC’s groomed trails. After your ski tour your guide will recommend other trails for you to enjoy. Guided ski tours are scheduled Saturday, Jan. 6, and Saturday, Feb. 17. Each session runs from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. The cost is $45 for Grand Mesa Nordic Council members and $60 for non-members. To register and for more information, visit gmnc.org.

South Rim Visitor Center will be open 4 to 9 p.m. Experience a moonlit winter night on snowshoes. Snowshoes are available to use free of charge for self-guided hiking along park snowshoe trails. Reservations are not required; snowshoes are first-come, first served. Winter night skies — Saturday, Feb. 17, and Saturday, March 17, 7 p.m. Meet at the South Rim Visitor Center. Join rangers and the Black Canyon Astronomical Society to learn more about the night sky. The evening starts with a special program followed by night sky viewing. If the weather looks cloudy, call (970) 249-1914, ext. 423.

Tobacco cessation program starts in January Delta County Memorial Hospital’s Cardiac and Rehabilitation Department is offering a six week tobacco cessation program beginning Monday, Jan. 22, from 6 to 7 p.m. in Classroom A in the hospital. This class is led by a certified tobacco cessation instructor and is open to all ages. Cost is $30 for six weeks of classes. For additional information or questions please call 874-2420.

Usher in 2018 with hike at Sweitzer Lake State Park Sweitzer Lake State Park is joining a statewide program to welcome 2018 by heading outside to enjoy the trails in a Colorado state park. The hike runs from 10 a.m. to noon. Monday, Jan. 1. “We will be walking around the lake,” said head ranger Scot Rist. “We will see waterfowl, tracks from animals, and learn about plant life. We will talk about the salt on the ground and how it got there. Plus, we are going to celebrate our new bridge that completes the trail around the lake.” First Day Hikes offer a chance to start the

new year right by getting people out for some exercise in nature. This year, 26 state parks are participating by hosting an organized hike. Each park offers a unique opportunity to enjoy the new year, with most parks offering guided hikes and some parks providing multiple options to choose from, allowing you to select the time and route you prefer. The hikes are free but park visitors must possess a valid parks pass to participate. The daily pass for entry to most parks costs $7 per vehicle; annual passes are available for $70.

What’s happening at your library? The Delta County Libraries offer many educational and entertaining activities and events for you and your family to enjoy. See www.delta libraries.org for more details. Cedaredge Storytimes. Thursdays starting at 10:30 a.m. Little Free Libraries in Cedaredge and Beyond. Learn about Little Free Libraries in this presentation by Ginny Warner at the Cedaredge Library. Hosted by the Friends of the Cedaredge Library. Light refreshments and the regular friends meeting will follow the program. Thursday, Jan. 11, at 2 p.m. SnowEx on Grand Mesa. Brenda Harvey, Fellowship Ambassador for NASA JPL, will discuss the research and findings of the snow study conducted by NASA on the Grand Mesa in 2017. Thursday, Jan. 11, at 5:30 p.m. at the Stolte Shed in Cedaredge. Crafts Group. Crafters meet every Tuesday at 10 a.m. to share ideas and show and tell. Tech Soup Saturday. Bring your devices and your questions. Our expert “techies” will do their best to answer your questions. Every Saturday from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. Genealogy. Who’s Who in Whoville? Find

out who you really are! The first Friday of every month from 10:30 a.m. to noon. Crawford Storytimes. Thursdays starting at 10:30 a.m. Tech Help. Librarians will be available to help you with questions and problems about computers or mobile devices. Wednesday through Saturday by appointment. Contact the library at 399-7783 for details. Delta Storytimes. Storytimes for babies, tots and preschoolers are Wednesdays starting at 10:30 a.m. Contact the library at 874-9630 for details. Black Light New Year’s Noon Party. Wear your neon colored clothes and bring your friends for a pre-New Year’s party! Food, music, and games for teens. Saturday, Dec. 30, at 11 a.m. Friends of Delta Library Meeting. Wednesday, Jan. 10, at 3 p.m. Bucket Bands and Rhythm Jams. Participants will explore basic rhythm patterns and play a variety of drums and other percussion instruments. Ideal for third, fourth and fifth graders. Pre-registration is not required, but there are a limited number of openings for each class. It is not necessary to attend every session. Wednes-

day, Jan. 10, 17, 24 and 31 at 4:30 p.m. Saturday, Jan. 13, 20 and 27 and Saturday, Feb. 3 at 10:30 a.m. Seed Sorting Party. Come help package seeds for the Delta County Seed Library! Do you have seeds to donate from your garden? Bring them along! Thursday, Jan. 11, at 4 p.m. Genealogy One-onOne. Get the help you need researching your genealogy in this ongoing class taught by Mickey Watts. Meets the second and fourth Monday of each month at 5 p.m. Talk & Tangle Yarn. This is a group of knit and crochet enthusiasts who get together to talk and work on their individual projects. Mondays starting at 5:30 p.m. Hotchkiss Storytimes. Wednesdays starting at 10:30 a.m. Master Builder Club. Meets the first Tuesday of every month through April at 4 p.m. Library Lab: Movie Makers Club. Learn how to direct and produce a short film to submit for the 2018 Teen Video Challenge! This year’s theme: Libraries Rock! For teens age 13-18. Wednesday, Dec. 27, at 2 p.m. Knitting Group. Do you knit or crochet? Thursday, Jan. 11, at 10:30 a.m. Tech Help. Librar-

ians will be available to help you with questions and problems about computers or mobile devices. Tuesday–Thursday by appointment, 399-7781. Paonia Storytimes. Tuesdays starting at 10:30 a.m. Paonia Reads... Again! Read the book, “Wonderstruck,” a #1 NY Times bestseller by Caldecott Medalist Brian Selznik through Jan. 21. Then, watch a free showing of the movie on Sunday, Jan. 21, at 3 p.m. at The Paradise Theater. Teen Movie. Watch Seth Grahame-Smith’s contemporary interpretation of Jane Austin’s “Pride and Prejudice.” Learn about the effects of too much prejudice and too much pride with a zombie spin. Check out the book on display at Paonia Library before the showing, then come to watch the movie on Friday, Dec. 29, at 2 p.m. Armchair Travel. Home to England: Mother and Daughter. Join Paonia Library volunteer Jackie DeGrace and her daughter Sheree Fischer on their trip back to England, where Jackie was born. Explore Bletchley Park, the top-secret home of the World War II codebreakers. Tuesday, Jan. 9, at 2 p.m. Tech Café. Tech assistance for all ages and skill levels. Every Wednesday from 2 to 4 p.m.

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A8 Wednesday, December 27, 2017

SCHOOL

Delta County Independent

Final student meeting brings drug issues to light BY PAT SUNDERLAND Managing Editor

Delta is full of nice people and are generally caring and respectful, but the community — and its younger residents — clearly have a drug problem. In the eyes of students from Grand

Mesa Choice Academy, Achieve Blended Learning Academy and Vision Charter Academy, students who lack positive after-school activities, have little hope for the future or are simply bored turn to drugs. Their concerns were voiced during

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the fifth and final listening tour conducted by the school district. Previously, district administrators and school board members heard from students at Cedaredge, Delta, Hotchkiss and Paonia high schools. Grand Mesa Choice Academy is for at-risk students who, for a variety of reasons, have failed to thrive in traditional schools. It’s an alternative that’s prevented many students from dropping out of school entirely. Unfortunately, even that safety net doesn’t work for everyone. GMCA students said they’ve seen enrollment steadily decline since the beginning of the year, and they were quick to identify the reason — kids are turning to drugs. “They’re making it their life,” one student commented. When asked about drug prevention programs, students said the best response is simply support and understanding from a trusted adult. Rather than expelling a student for drug possession, they said administrators should sit down and try to learn why that student has turned to drugs. Many GMCA students already have disciplinary issues; they don’t need more problems dumped on their shoulders. A rehab center for teens was suggested, but some students said that would just turn into a place where teens could

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Delta County 2018

get together and cause trouble. In response to a question from a school board member about the drugs of choice, students said methamphetamine is a bigger problem than marijuana, although marijuana is easier to access. They expressed concern for elementary and middle school students who are being exposed to marijuana at home. In the community, they said they value the recreation center, Taco Time and the variety

of other dining choices. Even students enjoy the city’s flowers, but they echoed a concern about trashy roadsides that was also voiced by students at Delta High School. In school, they struggle with time constraints and with classmates who don’t take school as seriously as they do. If money was no object, they said they would like better desks, chairs, school supplies and textbooks. Some of those items, they said, are hand-me-downs from traditional schools.

More technology, a bigger building and additional computers were requested by GMCA students. Public transportation was a unique concern to GMCA students, who attend classes two miles south of Delta on the Technical College of the Rockies campus. Food stamps was another issue that never came up at traditional high schools, but was a concern for a student who said her family earns too much to qualify for the assistance it truly needs.

Garnet Mesa’s Terriﬁc Kids

Photos submitted

The following Garnet Mesa students earned a Terriﬁc Kid Award from the Kiwanis Club of Delta for their efforts to be a responsible citizen and student. Pictured above are kindergarten and ﬁrst grade students (back row, left to right) Esmeralda Ramirez, Micah Lackey, Abigail Flores, Madison Garrett and Ziva Howell; (front row) Nicky Whetstone, Joshua Kasper, Charlotte Zmiewsky and Esperanza Haro Dominguez. Below are second and third graders (back row) Haylei Bayless, Paiyten Henderson and Zane Knight; (front row) Jonothan Soto, Martin Medina and Enzo Sanchez.

CenturyLink offers tech grants to Colorado teachers CenturyLink, Inc. believes that connecting teachers and students to creative ways to use technology can expand their opportunities for education and improve the lives of their communities. That’s why the company has opened the 2018 application process for The CenturyLink Clarke M. Williams Foundation Teachers and Technology grant program. The program allows pre-K through 12th grade teachers in public, private and charter schools in Colorado to apply for a grant of up to $5,000

to implement innovative technology solutions in their classrooms. To apply, teachers can visit www.centurylink.com/ teachersandtechnology. The deadline for applications is 10 p.m. Mountain Time on Jan. 12. Launched in 2008, the Teachers and Technology program has awarded more than $7 million in grants to bring technology to classrooms across the country. The Foundation will award $1.4 million in grants in 2017-2018. “CenturyLink is proud to support our Teachers and Technology Grants

program,” said Guy Gunther, CenturyLink’s vice president of operations for Colorado. “The ability to help fund technology investment in classrooms across our state is a tremendous way to continue promoting STEM learning concepts and ensure that students are learning to think critically using cutting edge resources and getting the best education possible.” Grant winners will be announced from April 1May 15. CenturyLink service is neither required nor considered in the review of applications.

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Students of the Month

Photos submitted

November Students of the Month at Delta Middle School include the sixth graders pictured above: (front row, left to right) Xavier Martinez, Baylee Wilson, Jae Huff, Shayla Curtis; (back row) Lauren Angelo, Jamee Bloom, Pete Herren, Juelz Sandoval. Below are seventh and eighth graders (front row) Morgan Barnard and Morgan Cano; (middle row) Andrew Kukar, Jenna Reece, Morganne Branham, Janelle Marushack, Keyanna Morales, Jeremiah Porter; (back row) Emma Roithmayr, Katelynn Chavez, Alexis Barajas, Jon Baty, Hope Campbell and Herman Russell.

NORTH FORK December 27, 2017

TIMES

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www.deltacountyindependent.com

County and CDOT to partner on access control on Hwy. 92 BY ANNETTE BRAND Staff Writer

The conceptual design and final report for the Rogers Mesa Access Control Plan (ACP), prepared by Stolfus and Associates in close cooperation with Colorado Department of Transportation (CDOT), has been approved by county commissioners Doug Atchley, Mark Roeber and Don Suppes. They entered into an intergovernmental agreement with CDOT at their Dec. 18 meeting, accepting the ACP. In the discussion of the ACP, Dan Roussin represented CDOT; Michelle Hansen and Jenna Siegel represented Stolfus and Associates; and Ralph Clark, Road and Bridge District 3, attended on behalf of the county. The CO-92 Rogers Mesa Access Control Plan and Conceptual Design begins at Hidden Springs Road and ends at the Union Pacific railroad crossing. The plan will be implemented as two parts of a long-range plan. In the interim and conceptual design, elements of the long-range plan that are compatible with existing land uses will be implemented, creating consistency between long-term planning efforts and shortterm needs. The interim plan will develop and change as the project moves forward. Changes will

be coordinated with the county, CDOT and property owners as they develop. The long-range plan will be implemented as changes occur in the county that require needed changes. Redevelopment that increases traffic by 20 percent or more will require changes. Safety or operational issues could necessitate changes also. Currently there are 153 existing access points in the ACP. These could be reduced to 114 access points through one public road closure (J80 Road); 13 field access closures; 12 consolidated accesses to one access per ownership; nine accesses relocated to side roads; and four shared access points. Nine access points could be relocated to improved locations. Hansen said alternative local routes could reduce dependence on the highway, reduce demand at high demand intersections and provide alternative routes if the highway is closed. She noted that the county controls local alternative routes, not CDOT. Stolfus and Associates have attempted public outreach in several ways. Stolfus held three meetings with the Delta County Commissioners. They held two open houses. On April 5, ACCESS CONTROL TO B2

Photo by Tamie Meck

A long tail

A black-billed magpie, also known as the American magpie, suns itself atop a tree last Sunday morning. A member of the jay family, the magpie has one of the longest tail to body length ratios in North America.

Paonia okays town park entrance plan BY TAMIE MECK Staff Writer

The corner of Paonia Town Park where the miner’s statue stands will soon be designated as the official entrance to the park. Paonia trustee David Bradford presented a proposal for upgrades to the southeast corner of the park, where the miner’s statue has stood tall and proud for almost 35 years. The appearance of the area has been the focus of complaints to the town, said Bradford, who also serves on the town’s public works, utilities and facilities committee. In September, a proposal calling for replacing vegetation with a large stamped concrete pad was tabled after trustees asked for input from the public and the mining community and urged more creativity in any future designs. Trying to move the project forward, Mayor Pro Tem David Bradford researched the history of

the statue and other memorial items found in the southwest corner of the park, and reached out to members of the mining community. Based on what he learned, Bradford proposed a new revitalization plan, which he presented to the board at the Dec. 12 meeting. The proposal would designate the 40- by 55-foot corner of the park as the official park entrance. The existing white fence would be removed from around the statue area, as would the vegetation that has been planted in the area in the past 15 years. The pink peonies, which according to a brass plaque are “the original peonies for which Paonia was named,” will remain. The area currently includes the statue and the names of 68 miners who died in minerelated accidents between 1906 and 2007; a drinking fountain dedicated to Melvina Clark-Hall, whose family

donated the park property to the town; and a bench dedicated to deceased members of the BMW Motor Cycle Club of Colorado. The club’s Colorado Top O’ the Rockies Rally is held annually at Town Park, and funds raised by the club helped to pay for improvements to the area, including planting of the vegetation, a concrete path, and the memorial bench. The town will commission Hotchkiss metal artist Ira Houseweart to construct an archway at a cost of approximately $5,000. Houseweart’s metal works can be found throughout the area, including at the entrance to the Hotchkiss High School football field, at the entrance to Paonia River Park and in the river park’s metal access ramp. Sculpture designs would be based on the local ranching, mining and business history. “He’s a wonderful artist and

does some wonderful work,” said Bradford. With the exception of the words “Paonia Town Park,” the final look of the arch, as well as the remainder of the area, will be based on suggestions from the community. Since Melvina Clark’s family was among the earlier settlers in the area and dedicated the property for the park to the town, Bradford suggested that the water fountain be repurposed as a stand for a sculpture, to be determined later on. The fountain no longer functions after being vandalized numerous times. Bradford said he estimates a total cost of $25,000 for the project, but believes it could be less depending on concrete and other bids. The town has approximately $20,000 in Colorado Lottery money in its Conservation Trust Fund account that can be used for the project.

Bradford said that Adam Camacho, whose dad was killed in a mining accident in 1998, suggested funds be raised through sales of memorial bricks, which helped fund the Paonia Library. A committee was formed to oversee the final design and implementation of the project. Donny Emmons, who served on the original committee that brought the statue to the park, and John Poulos from West Elk Mine will serve on the committee. They will come up with designs and present their ideas to the board for final approval. Bradford said he would like to see the project completed in time for a Memorial Day dedication, which would mark 35 years to the day since the statue was dedicated on that rainy day in 1983. Please turn to B2 to read the history of the coal miner statue at Paonia Town Park.

Paonia retail sales tax revenues are up in 2017 BY TAMIE MECK Staff Writer

Photo by Tamie Meck

A coating of Christmas snow brings out the features of the iconic miner statue at Paonia’s Town Park. The town council approved plans for the statue to anchor a new entrance to the park at the corner where the miner has stood for nearly 35 years. Please turn to B2 to learn the history of the statue.

The Town of Paonia will benefit from an unexpected increase in annual sales tax revenues. Based on fiscal year 2017 annualized year-end budget numbers, the town estimates an increase of 6.9 percent in local sales tax revenue. While the 2017 budget projects revenues of $264,000, based on sales taxes collected through November, the town projects a year-end total of about $289,500 in local sales tax revenue. “It’s the highest it’s been since 2014,” said town finance officer Cindy Jones. That year the town received $290,302 in local sales taxes. So where is the additional revenue coming from? While exact numbers weren’t available, trade data provided by the town shows that in comparing 2016 and 2017 sales tax revenues for the 11 months from February through December, the biggest dollar increase is in retail sales, expected to increase just over 9 percent, from $155,602 in 2016 to $170,014 in 2017. Revenue from utilities is up about 1.8 percent, from $28,822 to $29,334; and manufacturing is up about 6 percent, from $10,341 to $10,965. “Accom-

Photo by Tamie Meck

Children follow Mrs. Claus into Berg Harvest Mercantile in 2016. Berg Harvest is among several new businesses that have opened since 2016. Others include The Cirque Cyclery and the Indigo Autumn grocery store. This year, Paonia will realize an increase of about 7 percent in local sales taxes. modation and food services” revenues were down 7.54 percent, from $34,568 in 2016, to $31,960 in 2017. Of the estimated $16,000$20,000 in increased revenue, $10,000 will go to year-end bonuses for town employees, with the balance going to the reserve fund (see “Paonia splits tax windfall between bonuses, reserve” in the Dec. 20 issue of the DCI). During Dec. 12 discussion on what to do with the unal-

located sales tax revenue, town treasurer Ross King said it’s anyone’s guess at this point if the trend will continue. Whether the increase is an anomaly or not, the town was very conservative in its sales tax estimates for 2018, said King. “This could be an aberration.” Hotchkiss will see an estimated 5.75 percent increase in town sales tax revenue, according to deputy clerk GinRETAIL SALES TAX TO B2

B2 Wednesday, December 27, 2017

NORTH FORK TIMES

Delta County Independent

How the coal miner statue came to be BY TAMIE MECK Staff Writer

The following history of the miner statue at Paonia Town Park was submitted to the Town of Paonia Board of Trustees

by mayor pro tem, David Bradford: On April 15, 1881, an explosion at the Mid-Continent Coal Mine, officially known as Dutch Creek Mine No. 1, out-

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side of Redstone, killed 15 coalminers. This disaster reminded many in the North Fork Valley of the dangers involved with coal mining and the many miners who died in the coal mines in the valley. A group of citizens began an effort to create a monument for the fallen miners. The group included Don Emmons, Harry Galer and Kathy Geddes of Colorado Westmoreland Mine; and Lloyd Miller, Don Morrow, Joe Vorhees, Galen Reynolds and Ken Pavlisick of the U.S. Steel Mine in Somerset. Vorhees was president of the United Mine Workers local, Reynolds was vicepresident and Pavlisick was secretary/treasurer. The group, represented by Galer, approached the Town of Paonia at the July 28, 1981 town board meeting about putting up a statue and a plaque with the names of miners lost in disasters in the area. The town board supported the concept and Mayor Donald (Shorty) Wood worked with the group on the project. The opportunity to create the sculpture was opened for proposals and several bids varying from $15,000 to $100,000 were received. Mr. Gary Prazen, of Price, Utah, was hired to create a sculpture of a coal miner for $15,000. Prazen was a native of Carbon County, Utah, with strong ties to the local coal mining industry. He began his sculpting career with a bronze sculpture of actor John Wayne, who had visited Carbon County in 1978. It was based on a scene from the movie, “True Grit,” where Wayne’s character, Rooster Cogburn, faces off against the outlaw Lucky Ned Pepper and three of his henchmen. Prazen completed the sculpture, titled “Fill Your Hands,”

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Photo by Tamie Meck

A proposal recently approved by the Paonia Board of Trustees will create an ofﬁcial entrance to Paonia Town Park where the iconic miner’s statue has stood for almost 35 years. and presented it to the actor shortly before his death on June 11, 1971. Prazen founded the company, Original Creations, Inc., in Helper, Utah, in 1980, and went on to create over 300 sculptures. He focused on mining, but created western and wildlife sculptures as well. His sculptures sell all over the world. Mr. Prazen passed away in 2016, and in 2017 he was inducted into the National Mining Hall of Fame in Leadville. Prazen’s son-inlaw, Danny Blanton, who took over management of Original Creations, told me he thought the miner statue in Town Park was the first life-sized sculpture that Gary Prazen created. In 1981 and 1982 the group worked at getting

donations to cover the $15,000 cost of the sculpture. Colorado Westmoreland, Bear Coal, West Elk, U.S. Steele, Western Slope Carbon, and possibly the Blue Ribbon mines all donated money. The United Mine Workers Union donated $5,000. Miners also contributed by raising funds through the Mine Rescue contests the mines held to promote mine safety and rescue training. Individual donations were also accepted. The statue was created using the lost wax method. It was installed at Town Park on Nov. 3, 1982. Additional rockwork on the base and installation of the memorial plaque with the names of the deceased miners was completed after that. The dedication of the

memorial was held on a rainy Memorial Day on May 30, 1983. Despite the rain nearly 100 people showed up for the dedication. There were 62 names listed on the plaque at the time. Mayor Donald Wood accepted the memorial on behalf of the town and told attendees he would “strive to keep a proper position in our park for it.” The miner statue is a significant piece of artwork that commemorates the hardworking miners who lost their lives in North Fork coal mines. There are currently 68 names on the plaque; there are spaces for 88 names. The town cooperated with the coal miners’ families in the installation of the memorial 34 years ago. The 35th anniversary of the dedication will occur in 2018.

The spirit of community

Photo submitted

About 30 volunteers helped with this year’s Hotchkiss Community Christmas Dinner at the Hotchkiss Senior Center. The annual event typically serves more than 100 people a traditional Christmas dinner, including smoked ham and turkey from Zack’s BBQ.

Retail sales tax FROM PAGE B1 ger Redden. Like Paonia, with the exception of a couple of months when sales tax revenues were slightly down, those increases were reflected throughout the year. Paonia voters will be asked to consider a onepercent sales tax increase next April. If passed, the increase in revenues will go to the general fund. The current town sales tax of two percent is split evenly between the general fund and the capital improvement fund. The proposed increase is one of the ways the board has considered raising additional revenue in light of declining revenues related to a decrease in coal mining activities. To balance the 2017 budget, the board was forced to cut more

than $160,000 from the general fund. Trustees also approved a threepercent impact fee on the town’s enterprise funds for 2018, which will raise approximately $43,000 for street repairs. The board also considered putting a property tax mill levy increase before voters. That would have generated about $40,000 in additional revenues beginning in 2019. The town also receives a portion of Delta County sales tax dollars. The lowest amount collected since 2008 was $81,624 in 2012. The year-to-date amount collected as of November is $91,761, not including December’s taxes. That number could come close to $100,000 after December’s numbers are added in. “I doubt that it’s an

aberration,” said Elaine Brett, a retired business manager who is working with the town on the Space to Create initiative. Speaking at the Dec. 12 meeting, Brett said she’s analyzed local taxes as part of the grant-writing process for the initiative, since that information can be a valuable metric in getting grants. “When everybody thought the world was falling apart because of the mine closures, the sales tax didn’t drastically drop off,” said Brett. “It kind of kept even.” The up-tick, in part, is due to new businesses opening up, increased downtown traffic, and people working hard to improve the economic situation in town, said Brett “I think it’s something we will continue to see.”

of the ACP the property owners in question will be notified. “This is a long-term project, a three- to fiveyear process,” he said. “There is a lot of stuff going on up there.” Atchley asked, “What happens if we don’t agree with proposed changes?” Hansen replied, “If things go sideways, the agreement provides for termination. We will go back to the CDOT highway code.” Roussin said, “If we do Rogers Mesa it will open the eyes of right-of-way folks, and to all the other issues out there. This is an excellent project and in the long run will save CDOT money. We are trying to do things right up there so future landowners will come talk to us

first.” Commissioner Suppes said, “This project has been a good exercise for our constituents. Kudos to you all for a good project and good communications.” “It’s a good project,” Commissioner Roeber added, “You have gone over and above in making access safer.” Atchley asked about the irrigation system, noting that it goes everywhere in that area. Hansen said that will be the next design. “We need to know what is out there, that the water is going to the right places. That is the larger piece of our next design.” CDOT is expected to adopt the access control plan within four to six weeks.

Access control FROM PAGE B1 83 people attended the open house at Hotchkiss High School. On Aug. 30, 57 people attended another open house at Hotchkiss High School and 56 comments were received. They have held 46 one-on-one meetings. Eleven comments have been received through a web-based interactive map. Commissioner Atchley asked how the Rogers Mesa Access Control Plan could be amended. Hansen said the ACP requires no financial commitments, imposes no financial obligations. The ACP will be shared with the county and CDOT as it progresses. Roussin said that if CDOT changes access during the progression

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NORTH FORK TIMES

Delta County Independent

Wednesday, December 27, 2017

Hotchkiss trustees OK trees, set 2018 mill levy BY PAT SUNDERLAND Managing Editor

Uncertainty about which portions of Lorah Lane are owned by the Town of Hotchkiss and which lie in the county can only be resolved through a title search, town trustees concluded at their Dec. 14 meeting. Ultimately, the town would like to install a sidewalk from Hotchkiss K-8 to the highway, but it’s not certain if there is enough right-of-way. The street is being maintained by the town, but a recent asphalt project was split between the town and the county. Private property also enters into the picture. Determining ownership may be complicated, “but we’ve got to start somewhere,” said trustee Tom Wills. The matter will be addressed again in January. A request from ShadeScapes to plant three trees in the sidewalk in front of the business on Bridge Street was approved on a 3-2 vote. While Wills said he appreciates any efforts to beautify downtown Hotchkiss, other trustees were concerned about maintenance and encroachment. ShadeScapes owner Jo Edmondson will be required to sign a maintenance agreement and to select the trees (up to three) from a Colo-

Start the new year at the Blue Sage In the southern part of the country it’s believed that eating black-eyed peas on New Year’s Day will bring prosperity for the coming year. The community is invited to start the new year with music, dancing, food and friendship at the Blue Sage Center for the Arts’ 17th annual Black-Eyed Pea Jubilee on Monday, Jan. 1. Bring your favorite potluck dish. Admission is free, and the Blue Sage will cheerfully accept donations throughout the day. A line-up of 15 musical acts will perform beginning at 2:30 p.m. 2:30 Melanie Jean 2:50 Dave Sheppard 3:15 Rose Hips 3:40 Turtle and the Heads 4:05 John Hutchison 4:30 Taylor Hawk 4:55 Jon Hickam and Friends 5:20 Mike Gwinn 5:45 The Scones 6:10 Justin Thompson 6:35 Jeanine Renee 7:00 Mojo 7:25 Carrie Liz Williams 7:50 Harry Harpoon Band 8:15 Bromigos New Year’s Eve On Sunday, Dec. 31, Diamond Joe Cafe in Crawford will have live music beginning at 9 a.m. The Scones will be performing at the Redstone Inn, 82 Redstone Boulevard, Redstone. Call 970963-2526 for details.

PEOPLE IN THE NEWS John Moore of Hotchkiss was named to the fall scholastic honor roll at Oregon State University. Moore, a senior majoring in fisheries and wildlife science, earned straight As. A total of 1,427 students earned straightAs (4.0). Another 4,483 earned a B-plus (3.5) or better to make the listing. To be on the honor roll, students must carry at least 12 graded hours of course work.

rado State Forestry list of trees that are suitable for this climate. She was also directed to work with the town’s public works department, to ensure the trees don’t block any car doors and will leave five feet of the sidewalk clear. A special events liquor license was approved fror the Kids Pasta Project, which is hosting an awards dinner at Shadescapes on Jan. 15, the National Day of Service. One nonprofit will be selected to receive a $1,000 Building Bridges Award. Wills has prepared a draft resolution for green energy options that would encourage the DMEA board to allow consumers to buy renewable energy that’s been produced locally. Currently, green energy is available only from a Tri-State wind project in Wyoming. Wills said a local green energy option could create jobs. The town attorney was asked to review the draft resolution before it’s brought back to the council for approval in January. They authorized the town attorney, public works director Mike Owens and Mayor Wendell Koontz to update a memorandum of understanding with The Nature Connection. The MOU outlines in-kind contributions from the town. A pay request from Tribble & Sons, plus a change order, were approved for the sewer line project. Town engineer Joanne Fagan explained the change order covers additional storm sewer pipe for CDOT drainage and the paving of Piñon Drive, which turned out to be cheaper than patching. The 2018 budget was approved and the mill levy was set at 10.260,

which will generate $94,276.00 on taxable property of $9,188,724. A temporary property tax credit of 2.464 mills will save property taxpayers $22,641 in 2018. Sales tax, another major source of revenue for the town, exceeded expectations for 2017 and projected at $235,000 for 2018. It was also an unusually good year for tap fees, in part because of the clinic construction. Capital expenditures include payroll software, a brush hog and a new vehicle for the police department. A supplemental appropriation of $2,300 was approved for the garbage fund, which exceeded the 2017 budgeted amount. Year-end bonuses, in the form of City Market gift cards, were approved for staff ($250) and trustees ($50). Wills, Koontz and Mary Hockenberry represent the town on the Colorado Main Street project. Wills reported Region 10 will help fund a strategic plan. A follow-up meeting will take place in January with representatives from the Hotchkiss Community Chamber of Commerce. It was reported the chamber had recently completed a walking map of downtown Hotchkiss. Copies are available at the town hall. Fagan reported the financing is in place for replacement of the town’s 450,000-gallon water tank and the project will go to bid in January. Finally, deputy town clerk Ginger Redden announced petitions for the April 3 municipal election will be available at town hall. The mayor and three trustees will be elected by mail ballot. Candidates interested in seeking office can contact town hall at 872-3663.

Photo by Tamie Meck

Ducking for cover

Paonia High School students Taralee Mautz, left, and Carly Horn duck for cover during the annual Winter Warrior Dodgeball Tournament fundraiser in November. This year’s fundraiser raised a whopping $3,062.44, making it the biggest fundraising night since the tournament began in 2012. The money will go to a local veteran who served in Iran and continues to serve the community through the Veterans Administration Hospital. The veteran was recommended to receive the money by the Paonia American Legion Post 97.

Deck the halls with library treasures BY TRACY IHNOT Delta County Libraries

On Saturday, Dec. 9, people flocked to Paonia Library for a variety of holiday festivities, including a puppet show. Friends of Paonia Library hosted their big, holiday book sale, providing parents the opportunity to browse for books while their children enjoyed the show. “It was a super fun event, with over 50 kids plus their families,” says Jane Kelso, Paonia Library manager. In Hotchkiss, children and their families visited the library for the third annual Gingerbread Festival on Wednesday, Dec. 6. It was an afternoon full of gingerbread stories, crafts and hand-decorated gingerbread cookies. In Crawford, children

enjoyed a play day and storytime with Mrs. Claus on Thursday, Nov. 30. More recently, Crawford patrons created holiday cards while viewing the magnificent Alpine Village on display through December. Across the county, librarygoers scavenged for pieces of a holiday poem and created handmade gifts to wrap up for loved ones at Delta Library. Cedaredge Library patrons made snowman ornaments to take home for their trees and took a stroll on the Surface Creek Trail while viewing the 2017 holiday StoryWalk®. “The holidays are a wonderful time at our public libraries,” says Lea Hart, district director of Delta County Librar-

ies. “Holiday programs, recipe books, children’s stories, crafts, scavenger hunts, maker spaces, and more contribute to the holiday cheer in our communities. Those who cannot make it to one of our library locations can visit our online library to look for holiday e-books on OverDrive or create a playlist of holiday music using Freegal.” “We would like to invite the community to visit the libraries in the days ahead and we wish you all a safe and happy holiday season.” Delta County Libraries will be closed Monday, Jan. 1. To learn more about what is happening at your library this holiday season or to visit the online library, go to www. deltalibraries.org.

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CHURCH

Delta County Independent

Financial Peace University offers hope to families More than 4.5 million people have positively changed their financial future through Ramsey Solutions’ Financial Peace University (FPU). Created by financial expert Dave Ramsey, the nineweek course provides families and individuals with practical tools to gain control of their finances and set themselves up for long-term financial success. FPU will be held in Delta at Calvary Baptist Church, 1290 A Street. The classes will begin Wednesday, Jan. 17, at 6 p.m. Go to www.fpu.com/1052234 for more information or to

register. Through commonsense principles, FPU gives people the tools they need to change their behavior and succeed financially. Along with Ramsey Personalities Rachel Cruze and Chris Hogan, Ramsey teaches lessons on budgeting, relationships and money, getting out of debt, saving for emergencies and investing. On average, families who complete FPU pay off $5,300 and save $2,700 in the first 90 days. Following the class nearly 94 percent of those families budget regularly. “FPU will not only

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transform the way you handle money, but also your marriage and other areas of your life,” says Ramsey. “This isn’t a boring financial class. We make learning about money fun and easy to understand so people in every situation can benefit from the information.” An FPU membership includes access to online video lessons, a one year subscription to the EveryDollar Plus budgeting tool, member workbook for all nine lessons and other additional resources. Go to DaveRamsey. com/FPU for more information.

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Food donations pile up

Each year for the past several years, Delta County Memorial Hospital has held a food drive during the Christmas season to help members of the community who are in need of assistance. Last week, hospital CEO Jason Cleckler commented, “I’m very pleased to announce that the hospital will be donating 5,672 pounds of food to food banks in Delta, Hotchkiss and Cedaredge, as well as the Abraham Connection and animal shelters. I truly appreciate the dedication and caring nature of our staff.” The winning team is now in possession of the Fabulous Food Fight Trophy and will be celebrating with a cookie party.

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SURFACE CREEK December 27, 2017

NEWS

Section

www.deltacountyindependent.com

Climbing to new heights on CMS wall BY McKENZIE MOORE Contributing Writer

The climbing wall at Cedaredge Middle School, which was completed in 2014 after communitywide fundraising efforts, hosts a weekly open house for the public on Friday nights from 6:30 to 9 p.m. Climbers of all ages and skill levels can learn to both climb and belay for other climbers. In addition to a recreational climbing club now in its third year, the wall gave Cedaredge the opportunity to create a competitive climbing team. The team has been competing for two years. Sabrina Gilmore, a regular on Friday nights and a member of the Cedaredge competitive climbing team, says the sport is a great way to build fitness and meet new friends. “It’s really fun to get out and challenge yourself to see your-

self get better,” she says, “It’s a new challenge every time, which is fun.” The wall offers seven ropes and 21 different routes, including “bouldering” routes that do not require harnesses and primarily move horizontally across the wall. A points system shows climbers the difficulties of the routes. “It’s a good community,” Gilmore says, “It’s not really competitive — you compete, but everybody’s just trying to help you get up the wall in the easiest way possible. They all just want you to make it.” The climbing team participates in the Western Slope division of the Colorado league from late November to early February, and the season concludes with a state competition in Denver. Only high school students can compete,

but the team also recruits middle school students who wish to participate and prepare for a future in the sport. Coach Michael Long says the community is welcome to try the climbing wall on Friday nights. “It’s a really cheap, easy thing to do with

your family,” he says. He also coaches the competitive team and helps train new climbers during community nights. “It’s a really easy, positive thing, and that’s the real purpose of the wall — beyond the competitive team, beyond the club. It’s to give people skills:

overcoming fears, trusting each other ... building blocks for life.” The wall is located in the Cedaredge Middle School gymnasium, and new climbers can get started with the sport for $3, which covers all equipment and training.

Photo by McKenzie Moore

The wall offers multiple climbing routes with varying levels of difﬁculty. The holds on the wall can be rearranged to create new routes and challenges.

OC looks at different way to budget road maintenance BY RICK SMITH Contributing Writer

Photo by McKenzie Moore

Coach Long demonstrates climbing techniques for a new climber during a Friday community night.

Chamber looking for business of the year The Cedaredge Area Chamber of Commerce (CACC) is now accepting nominations for Business of the Year, NonProfit of the Year, Volunteer of the Year and new & Improved. Winners must either operate or do business within the Surface Creek area, or be a member of the CACC. A full list of members is available online at www.CedaredgeChamber. com. Which business has amazing customer service? Or a truly unique offering? Which business is going above and beyond to bring commerce to the Surface Creek area? “We want to hear from the community about which businesses

and organizations you think are doing an amazing job,” said Kami Collins, executive director of the CACC. Nominations should include the business or organization name, primary contact name, contact information, and reason for your nomination. Nominations can be made by emailing Cedaredge AreaChamber.com, by writing to PO Box 278, Cedaredge CO 81413; or in person at 245 W Main Street. You can also call the office at 970-856-6961 for more information. Nominations are due by Jan. 8. The winners will be announced at the chamber’s annual banquet on Jan. 19.

Trustee Bob Eckels, Orchard City’s road committee chairman, opened a meeting on Thursday, Dec. 14, to consider a budget proposal for road funding in 2018 and beyond. Eckels stated that the information gathered would be set for consideration at a later date. Questions would be addressed after the presentation and discussion by the Orchard City town board and Doug Keller. Keller was given the floor to present his proposal. The budget for 2018 is projected to be $2.2 million dollars, $1.360 million for materials and labor, $840,000 for preparation and repair. The budget plans $177,000 in revenue, $42,000 from administrative expenses and $32,000 from the general fund. This would be $103,000 gain in revenue over expenditures. Using a bag of potato chips as an example, the bag could cost $2.49. The same bag at a grocery store would be considerably less while buying a case lot at Sam’s Club would bring

the price per bag to under $2.00. The same analogy could be used in purchasing larger volumes of road materials. In bulk it could save 10 cents per square yard as opposed to purchasing for one year at a time. This would result in a savings of $34,000. Soliciting Requests for Proposal (RFP) could create a bidding war and drive down costs. If the funding was done in one year, in 2019, the $103,000 would be paid back to the General Fund. Every year after both the Road and the General Fund would increase, with an estimated 2024 balance of $200,000 in the Road Fund and over a million dollars in the General Fund. Trustee Tom Huerkamp stated that both funds are Tabor Amendment related. He cautioned that research on the Tabor Amendment would need to be done. If the town reduces the General Fund, under Tabor, it can’t be replaced. Local growth and the rate of inflation are factors to determine how much the funds can be increased. Trustee Eckels said that the

board will need to do its homework to adequately respond to Keller and to inform the constituents. Citizen questions will be answered by the next board meeting (Jan. 10) or at the town hall meeting in January. There is a possibility of having an official from the state available to explain laws and taxation issues. Trustee Gary Tollefson asked if doing a staged production of 25 percent of the plan per year would be feasible. Keller stated that the overall cost of the project would increase by doing that. In other concerns, it was stated that the main artery roads would need to remain open during the project or have alternative routes determined. The board would need to come up with a traffic plan. Piggybacking the road work with water pipeline repair and replacement should be considered. The Town of Orchard City owns seven bridges in various conditions that could require repair or replacement within the next few years. ROAD BUDGET TO C2

Lodge makes major repairs after big 2016 snow BY DON BENJAMIN Staff Writer

What began as a roof repair quickly evolved into something bigger for Mike and Rose Wenner, owners of Grand Mesa Lodge. Unlike lack of moisture during the

current dry spell, last winter’s snowfall on Grand Mesa was heavy — especially at the lodge which is situated at 10,500 feet in a rustic area adjacent to Island Lake. For the month of November 2016, the lodge recorded

Photo courtesy of Grand Mesa Lodge

Mike Wenner, owner of Grand Mesa Lodge and Wiley, the lodge’s faithful dog, stand atop last winter’s snowpack that damaged the lodge’s roof.

a snow accumulation of 69 inches. In December 2016 the figure was 77 inches. Then came January 2017 and 115 inches of snow fell, and not just any snow, but wet stuff with water content measuring over 12 inches — a figure more than twice the water content of previous January storms. Eventually the weight of last winter’s wet and heavy snows strained the historic lodge and caused its 60-yearold roof to fail. The lodge was constructed in the late 1950s. It was originally composed of two A-frame structures — one served as a restaurant and the other as a store. Later a partition was added joining the Aframes into a single structure. When last year’s snowpack damaged the partition, the original plan was to repair the partition roof. But when repair work began, additional damage was discovered. Joists and other structural supports were badly cracked, requiring more extensive repairs. Mike and Rose have spent six years operating the lodge and they are determined to,

Photos courtesy of Grand Mesa Lodge

Last winter’s accumulated snow weakened the old central roof on Grand Mesa Lodge. The roof appears intact but internal supports were badly damaged. The repairs, as of Dec. 6, are shown above. as Mike puts it, insure that the facility is “restored, safe, and functional.” The building’s foundation is sound, as are structures on either side of the damaged partition, so work has focused on repairing weakened portions of the structure. The Cristee-Meade Building Company

out of Cedaredge is handling the repairs which should be completed by February 2018. During repairs, Grand Mesa Lodge remains open from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. every day of the week. The lodge is located atop Grand Mesa on Highway 65 near mile marker 28 — look for the red canoe.

C2 Wednesday, December 27, 2017

SURFACE CREEK NEWS

Delta County Independent

Ministering to the community BY KAMI COLLINS Staff Writer

Photo submitted

Christmas angel

Trey Gronenthal, co-owner of Reve Portraits and Cedaredge Area Chamber of Commerce Ambassador chair, is pictured with Margaret Berthe, one of the coordinators of the Surface Creek Angel Giving Tree project, which makes sure area kids in need had presents under the tree on Christmas morning. Reve Portraits donated $100 to the Angel Tree, which were the proceeds from the Photos with Santa event during the Cedaredge Parade of Lights on Dec. 2. Reve Portraits and Stacy’s on Main co-sponsored the photos.

Road budget FROM PAGE C1 Tollefson mentioned that he had concerns, after reviewing the information on 2100 Road, if chip and seal would be adequate to repair all of the damage. Further review on all of these concerns will be upcoming. Constituent Dave Steuck asked if the town

would be able to get a loan. Huerkamp said that in order to apply for a loan, the town would need to provide proof of a source of revenue. It would also require a vote of approval by the constituents of the town. The next town council meeting will be Jan. 10, at 7 pm.

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Joe Agne, pastor of the Cedaredge Community United Methodist Church, loves to play Santa Claus. He’s featured on the Back Page this week. Agne has served as the pastor of CCUMC since July 2016. He is also a member of the Cedaredge Rotary Club, is an advisory board member of the Grand Mesa Arts & Events Center, and is active in the Surface Creek area. “I love it here,” he said of the area, though it does take work for him to be here. The church hired him for threequarters time, and he retains his home in Gilpin County, 275 miles from Cedaredge. He’s here three weeks out of

Pastor Joe Agne is pictured with Karen Oliveto, who serves as the bishop of the United Methodist Church of the Mountain Sky area. where everybody’s story is accepted, approved of, received. I feel like in the church, when we’re sent

to a community, we’re sent to be a pastor to the community, not just to the local church.”

Birds of the Western Slope

Real trees needed for A look at local birds with Evelyn Horn All Saints bonfire I wondered how he could Rufous-sided/ All Saints Lutheran in Cory celebrates the 12th Night of Christmas and closes down the Christmastide season with a huge bonfire of real, undecorated Christmas trees! This annual event will be held on Saturday, Jan. 6, at 5 p.m. Along with the singing of Christmas carols, enjoy a cup of chili plus cocoa or hot spiced cider. Please help supply real trees; just make sure they haven’t been sprayed with fireproofing. You can bring your trees the night of the bonfire or bring your trees anytime to the field between the church and the highway. Seats will be provided for those who would like to sit down while they sing and enjoy the refreshments. Dress warmly and bring a flashlight to read the song sheet. All Saints is located on Highway 65 one mile north of the Cory General Store. For more information, call 835-3667.

Ring in the New Year with a GREAT DINNER and LIVE MUSIC

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the month, and home just one week a month. More than geographical distance, Joe can sometimes find himself at odds with the community socially and politically. When he was seeking another church to serve, he asked his bishop to be placed in a conservative church and a conservative community. “Our country is so balkanized,” Joe said. “We need to learn how to really listen, across differences. To listen to each other, not try to talk each other into anything, not try to change each other, but listen to each other’s stories. I have this strong sense that everyone has a story but not everyone has someone who will listen to their story. I want church to be a place

spotted towhee How long ago? I don’t really remember. I know it was in the Nevadayears and the local Audubon Society had received word about the “rufoussided towhee” in Arizona. They planned a trip, but Allen and I decided to go look for ourselves. When we left Las Vegas and headed toward Arizona, we weren’t sure where we were going — so that led to a few mistakes. But then, we had the whole weekend! I remember going through pinyon-juniper woodlands and checking all of the likely places for a songbird to perch. It was a fascinating drive, but no towhee to be seen. This was a new bird for me. We came up a small hill and there at the top, I scanned the surrounding trees and brush. And there was my towhee! He was sitting on a barren set of twigs and singing. What a delight! The bright red eye in the black head, the shiny black bill and the white breast were spectacular.

Contributing Writer

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The rufous side above the breast gave this bird its name. Allen and I watched in fascination. We had found our bird, and he was spectacular. He seemed content, and we watched him for a good deal of time. I was especially taken with the white in his tail and happy for the chance to study bird’s feet: skinny, scrawny and plain gray.

Keep your dogs safe in cold winter weather BY DON BENJAMIN

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Photo by Bill Schmoker

Rufous-sided towhee photographed at Utah canyon lands in 2004.

live with them! But when we came to the Delta area there were lots and lots of birds. And I was in heaven! We planted native plants and, as they matured, we had loads and loads of birds. All of the towhees are known for their “scuffling,” double-scratch foraging technique. In fact, it’s a good clue to the entire group. If you should be in our mountains, and see a bird doing the double-scratch it’s probably the grayish green-tailed towhee. Or if you should journey to our southwest, and you see a bird doing the double-scratch it’s no doubt a towhee: the California, brown, and Abert’s towhees are all brownish and about nine inches long. And now my friend, Jim Wallace, has a towhee at his place here in Eckert. My records show that in 1998 we had our towhee. I’d like to borrow his bird! But it’s called “spotted towhee” (note the white spots on the wings).

Michelle Anderson, animal control officer for the Town of Cedaredge, offered advice in the town newsletter to keep dogs safe this winter. The tips can also apply to other pets. With temperatures dropping, she recommends the following precautions: • Don’t leave your dog outside for long periods and make sure the animal has adequate shelter

to keep warm, dry, and away from drafts. • Be careful when walking or playing with a dog near frozen lakes, rivers, or ponds. • If your dog gets wet, towel or blow-dry the animal being certain to dry and clean paws too. • Frostbite is a winter hazard to dogs especially their ears, tails and feet. • Groom your dog regularly since a wellgroomed coat is needed for proper insulation.

• If your dog is outdoors a lot, or is a working animal, feed it additional calories. • Due to the risk of carbon monoxide, don’t leave your dog alone in the car with the engine running. • Be aware that antifreeze which collects on driveways or roads is highly poisonous and that rock salt used to melt ice on sidewalks can irritate animal footpads.

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SPORTS

Delta County Independent

SPORTS December 27, 2017

Wednesday, December 27, 2017

www.deltacountyindependent.com

Miller brothers, Neal get big wins in Palisade dual BY TAMIE MECK DCI Sports Writer

In its first home dual of the season, Paonia defeated Palisade last Wednesday in a competition that came down to the final match. Paonia head coach Nate Wiggins and Palisade head coach Tanner Ridgway both wrestled at Paonia under former head coach Andy Pipher. Both coaches had wrestlers who sat out the dual while they recovered from the Dec. 15-16 Warrior Classic. With some wrestlers not ready to get back on the mat, “We just had to get the best match-ups possible,” said Ridgway. The first eight matches were won by pin. The dual started at 160, with Bulldogs senior Austin Bernal scoring the first points for Palisade with a third-round pin over junior Jesse Burns. Paonia freshman Anthony Miller wrestled at 170 against Palisade junior Cody Cordova. Cordova was leading in the second round when Miller got him in a headlock, took him down and pinned him before Cordova could respond. “We

knew that was going to be a tough one that we had to win,” said Wiggins. “That was a big win.” At 182, Anthony Felice scored seven points in the first 30 seconds of his win over Joseph Alejo, getting the pin at 1 minute, 34 seconds. At 195, Palisade senior Terrance Williams tied the match at 12-12, pinning junior varsity sophomore Austyn Norris in 19 seconds. Wrestling up two weights, Jaden Miller won at 220 pounds over Palisade’s Gabe Correa. “He got us a big pin,” said Wiggins. Paonia’s Cyrus MalekMadani won by forfeit at 285, and Reagan Todd won by forfeit at 106. Palisade’s Robert Page won by forfeit at 113. At 120, Soul Connolly lost by pin to Palisade’s Raul Inchauregui. Palisade tied the dual at 3030 on a pin at 126 by Jaggar Wade over Ethan White. At 132, Zeb Etter gave Paonia a six-point lead, pinning Palisade freshman Moises Marquez in 38 seconds. Senior Caden Meilner

officially stepped on the mat for the first time this season to win at 138 pounds by a 17-6 major decision over Cobe Clark and giving Paonia a 4030 lead. Palisade’s Wyatt Wilbourn won the 145pound match by pin over Paonia’s Shane Odom, bringing the Bulldogs within a technical fall of a win. In the final match, No. 2-ranked sophomore Rockley “Grey” Neal (152) pinned Bulldogs’ top-15ranked senior Cody Head for a 46-36 win. “Rockley came through,” said Wiggins. The original lineup matched Neal with Bernal, which would have given Neal a shot at redemption after his quarterfinal, one-point sudden victory loss to the seventh-ranked senior at the Warrior. That was unfortunate, said Wiggins, as it could have been the highlight match of the dual. For Coach Ridgway, a state runner-up in 2006 and 2007 state champion for Paonia, it’s an opportunity to come home for a quick visit. His parents and other family mem-

Photo by Tamie Meck

Sophomore 132-pounder Zeb Etter pinned his Palisade opponent in 0:38.

A ‘true wrestler,’ Church wins second Warrior Classic title BY TAMIE MECK DCI Sports Writer

Delta senior Logan Church joined an elite group of wrestlers Saturday night, winning his second heavyweight title at the 41st annual Warrior Classic wrestling tournament at Central High School in Grand Junction. Church was the defending Warrior champion and was seeded first at the 42-team tournament. In the championship match Church pinned the No. 2 seed, Micah Smith of Douglas County. Smith had placed sixth at the 2016 Warrior and was third in Class 5A On the Mat rankings heading into the tournament. Church was the sole wrestler from Delta County to win a Warrior title this year. “He’s a true wrestler,” said head coach Clayton Curtis. “That’s what comes first for him. He lives and breathes wrestling.” In November Church signed to wrestle for Western State Colorado University in Gunnison, where he’ll compete in the Division II Rocky Mountain Athletic Conference.

The Warrior was the second tournament win this year for Church, who is now 15-0 and ranked first in Class 3A by On the Mat. Last February, Church took second at the state tournament and ended the season with a 42-3 record. His career record is now 95-15. Church also placed first last season at the Tournament of Champions, held at the Western Park Complex in Vernal, Utah. After state Church went on to win the 18and-under division at the Rocky Mountain Nationals. Church started wrestling in peewees. “It’s always been kind of natural,” he said. He won a lot of matches in peewees, took a break for a few years, then returned to the mat his freshman year, taking his place on the junior varsity team while two-time state placer Marcus Garcia finished his career. Coach Curtis, a threetime state champion from Alamosa, saw potential in him. His freshman year Church traveled to state with the team, and got a taste for winning. He gives a lot of credit to Garcia. “He kind of

toughened me up,” said Church. “He was just a monster out there. He’s big and mean.” He also pushed Church to be a better wrestler. “Being his partner, I really had to choose either to quit the team or toughen up.” He chose the latter. His sophomore year Church placed sixth at state. As a junior he was seeded 12th at state and finished as the 3A state runnerup. This year he has his eye on the gold. “He’s a tough competitor and he’s got goals,” said Curtis. He also wins a lot of matches by technical fall. “He wants to tech everybody,” said Curtis. “He could go out there and pin some of these kids in the first minute, but really, how is that going to benefit him? He’s trying to put in some mat time.” In getting to the championship match at the Warrior, “It’s been a tech fall all the way through,” said Church ahead of his match against Smith. “I’m just trying to get more experience, trying to get more gas in the tank. If I do end up with CHURCH TO C4

bers were in the stands, as was Coach Pipher. When he was in high school, Palisade and Paonia never dueled, said Ridgway. A few years back he and Pipher met up at a tournament, and both were looking for an additional dual. It’s now an annual tradition. Last week’s dual was their Photo by Tamie Meck fourth. “It always works,” With the team win on the line, Paonia sophomore said Ridgway. “We Grey Neal works toward a pin over Palisade last always get a good dual.” week.

Third generation could be charm for Clay Campbell on the mat BY TAMIE MECK DCI Sports Writer

When Paonia senior Clay Campbell lost to a 4A wrestler in the third round at this year’s Warrior Classic he went to work, winning five consecutive consolation matches and placing fourth at 145 pounds. While he would like to have ended the tournament on a win, “I made the podium,” said Campbell. It’s no small feat to place at the Warrior, which this year attracted 42 teams and 400 wrestlers. It’s considered one of the most competitive tournaments of the year outside of the state championships. “He had one of the tougher brackets,” said head coach Nate Wiggins. “He just had a phenomenal tournament.” Campbell is having a phenomenal year. He’s now 16-3 and took first at the Dec. 9 Panther Invitational in Delta. But there’s one medal he has yet to win: a state medal. A three-time state qualifier for Paonia, as a freshman Campbell was two wins away from placing at 113 pounds. He was an agonizing one win away from medaling as a sophomore, and again as a junior, where he ended the season with a personal best 30-14 record. Campbell is one of five seniors wrestling for the Eagles. A fifth generation member of the ranching Campbell family, he grew up on his family’s 500acre ranch and knows that hard work pays off. Being that close to making the podium at state, he said, just makes him want to work harder. Last summer, Campbell attended as many camps as his work schedule would allow, including the Paonia Summer Duals. “The more time and the more situations you see, the more you learn,” he said. This season, “He’s get-

ting it done,” said Wiggins. “He’s improved a ton.” Placing fourth at the Warrior “is good, especially for a first-year placer.” He’s also wrestling more aggressively on his feet. “My mind’s in the right place,” he said. “I feel like I’m wrestling more in the mindset to win, instead of wrestling not to lose. Moving in that direction is helping me a lot.” Drill partners including Sackett Chesnik, Grey Neal and Jesse Burns, all ranked in the top 10 by On the Mat, are also helping a lot. Chesnik wrestles at 138, where he’s 15-1. “He’s just such a technician, and he does everything very precisely and he does it well,” said Campbell. Neal, a 152-pound sophomore with a 13-3 record and a No. 2 ranking in the state “... is just strong as an ox and he’ll go in and just go for it,” he said. “It’s good to have that level of competition in the (wrestling) room. Some days you walk out of that room and you hate the other guy, but he’s only in there to get better and to make you better. That tough competition in the room helps tremendously.” It also helps that Campbell grew up being coached by former head coach Andy Pipher, who in his 21 years as head coach won 22 state championships and five state team titles. Campbell is ranked No. 5 in the state heading into the new year, but he doesn’t pay much attention to rankings. “Rankings help for bracketing, but when it comes time, it’s just who performs better on the mat,” he said. On any given day, “Anyone can get upset, have a good match or a bad match.” Something Campbell does pay attention to is “Faded Glory,” the wall at PHS bearing the names of all Paonia state placers since Russell Hylton placed second at 112

Photo by Tamie Meck

The referee raises thenfreshman Clay Campbell’s arm after winning a home match under the big light. The third generation of his family to wrestle for Paonia, Campbell is working hard to be the ﬁrst to medal at state.

pounds in 1957. He walks by the wall every day on his way to practice. It doesn’t escape him that there are no Campbells on the Faded Glory wall. Clay Campbell is the third generation of Campbell wrestlers to pass through Paonia High School. Grandpa Jess Campbell went on to wrestle four years at Fort Lewis College in Durango, as did Clay’s dad, Cal. His uncle Chad Campbell also wrestled at Paonia. Grandmother Linda Campbell said that when Clay’s dad wrestled, only the top two regional placers qualified for state (today the top four qualify). Cal got to state his junior year, but his senior year there was a measles epidemic and he missed the regional tournament. Campbells own state championships in other sports. Clay’s older sisters Shelby and Abby were members of the 2010 basketball team that won the state title. Abby also qualified for state in volleyball. Third cousin April Campbell holds the school record in the 100meter hurdles. Great grandpa Cal was coaching when Paonia won its first football title in 1959, and grandpa Jess was on the team. Last May Clay became the third generation of Campbells to play on a state champion baseball team when the Eagles won the Class 2A title. They ended the year at 25-0. He’s got one more year of baseball, and it could be another winning season, but for now, he’s focused on mid-February and the state championships at the Pepsi Center in DenPhoto by Tamie Meck ver. Said Campbell, with Senior Clay Campbell medaled for the ﬁrst time at the conviction of a chamthe highly-competitive Warrior Classic, where he pion, “I just need to get my name on the board.” was 6-2 and placed fourth.

C4 Wednesday, December 27, 2017

SPORTS

Delta County Independent

Delta swim team 6th at Montrose Invite BY WAYNE CRICK DCI Sports Editor

Last week’s swim meet held in Montrose was an eight-team event. Glenwood Springs won the Montrose High School Girls Swim and Dive Invitational on Dec. 16 with 443 points. The Panthers finished sixth with a score of 167 points. Senior Kendra Hillman had the highest Photo by Tamie Meck individual finish for the Paonia senior Clay Campbell, left, faces 4A Pueblo Centennial’s Cole Hernan- Panthers with a third dez in the third-place match of the Warrior Classic. Campbell, who took fourth, place in the 100 yard breaststroke. Her time was one of three placers for Paonia.

Nuggets Skills Challenge winners posted

Results are posted for the recently held Nuggets Skills Challenge hosted by Bill Heddles Recreation Center in Delta. Sports Cordinator Whitnee Lear reported there were 28 participants in the annual event. Winners in seven different age brackets were chosen on scores received during competition in dribbling, passing and shooting. This year’s 6-7 year old girls winner was Lily Gallegos. The 6-7 year old boys winner was Parker Velasquez. From the 8-9 year old girls division, Jazlyn Naranjo was the girls winner and Jenesis Naranjo was the boys titlist. Winners from the 1011 age division, Lily Nelson won the girls title and Rhett Miramontes claimed the boys top award.

Skylyn Webb sets marks at UCCS

Want to give a meaningful gift this Christmas? ��

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Former Delta High School student athlete Skylyn Webb competes on the University of Colorado Colorado Springs women’s indoor track and field team. Webb recently earned NCAA Division ll provisional qualifying marks. Webb competed at both the Mines Alumni Classic and Adams State’s Early Grizzly Open, and ran provisional times in the 800m (2:09.88) and 400m (56.13), winning both events for the Mountain Lions. Her 800m time is a new program record. In both events, Webb’s times currently ranks her second in all of Division ll. The Mountain Lions will resume competition, following a break, on Jan. 19-20 at the Western State Quad Meet in Gunnison.

was 1:21.50. Montrose’s Madeline Chandler won the event in a time of 1:11.51. Hillman was fifth in the 200 yard IM with a time of 2:39.32. She was also a team member of the fourth-place 200 yard medley relay (Sami Wollert-SR, Olivia McCrackin-SR and Kaitlyn Neeley-SO - 2:17.08) and helped the 200 yard freestyle relay team place sixth (McCrackin, Neeley and Wollert - 2:03.44). Other top 10 placers for the Panthers include Olivia McCrackin - 10th 100 yard butterfly (1:18.02); Olivia McCrackin - 9th 100 yard backstroke (1:13.63) and Abby Williams JR 10th 100 yard backstroke (1:26.41). Earning top 16 places

Gideon Gilmore, the only participant in the 12-13 age division, won the boys division. Winners in each diviNext week’s sports secAlso, the DCI Scoresion will move on to the next round of competition will feature All-State board will be updated tion, which will be held football players from with basketball results and recent scores. in Montrose on Feb. 3, Delta County. 2018.

For next week

Photo courtesy Whitnee Lear/BHRC Sports coordinator

Winners from Bill Heddles Rec Center Nuggets Skills Challenge include, from left, Gideon Gilmore (11/12 boys), Lilly Nelson (10/11 girls), Rhett Miramontes 10/11 boys), Jazlyn Naranjo (8/9 girls), Jenesis Naranjo (8/9 boys), Lily Gallegos (6/7 girls) and Parker Velasquez (6/7 boys).

BANK OF THE WEST BASKETBALL TOURNAMENT Tournament Winners Year

Boys

Girls

Tournament MVPs Boys

Delta

Hotchkiss

Jeff McPherson-Hotchkiss

Jaime White-Delta

1995

Hotchkiss

Jess Wiening-Hotchkiss

Becky Allen-Hotchkiss

1996

Delta

Hotchkiss

Zac Gergley-Cedaredge

Sue Ann Wiening-Hotchkiss

1997

Delta

J.R. Chatterton-Delta

Amanda Widner-Hotchkiss

1998

Delta

Paonia

Jeremy Allinson-Delta

Kriss Allen-Paonia

1999

Delta

Hotchkiss

Nick Garver-Delta

Mickaela Kenkel-Hotchkiss

2000

Cedaredge

Nate Bullis-Cedaredge

Bri Hotz-Cedaredge

2001

Cedaredge

Jake Brooks-Cedaredge

Cassie Hutto-Cedaredge

2002

Cedaredge

Jesse Anderson-Cedaredge

Cassie Hutto-Cedaredge

2003

Delta

Cedaredge

Blake Carlquist-Delta

Amber Koroshetz-Cedaredge

2004

Paonia

Cedaredge

Billy Mitchell-Paonia

Krista Coble-Cedaredge

2005

Delta

Clay Norell-Delta

Jessica Watkins-Delta

2006

Delta

Cedaredge

Michael Bear-Delta

Lexi Galvin-Cedaredge

2007

Paonia

David Carney-Paonia

Johanna Reed-Paonia

2008

Delta

Paonia

Eli Baier-Delta

Jordyn Rienks-Paonia

2009

Hotchkiss

Paonia

Pat Sullivan-Hotchkiss

Jordyn Rienks-Paonia

2010

Delta

Eli Baier-Delta

Jenni Jones-Delta

2011

Delta

Jake Ames-Delta

Skylyn Webb-Delta

2012

Delta

Doug Hawkins-Delta

Skylyn Webb-Delta

2013

Delta

Paonia

Jorge Olivas-Delta

Carson Pipher-Paonia

FIRST COLORADO NATIONAL BANK BASKETBALL TOURNAMENT Year 2016 2017

Wonderful

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Girls

1994

Tournament Winners

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were Ashley LaHoe SO - 15th 200 yard freestyle (2:57.45); Kiarrah Schotten FR - 12th 50 yard freestyle (34.34); Morgan Miller SR - 13th 50 yard freestyle (39.85); Neeley - 100 yard butterfly (1:28.45); Hailee Ruble FR - 14th 100 yard butterfly (1:35.14); Jordan Tamayo SR - 12th 100 yard freestyle (1:13.07); LaHoe - 13th (1:19.01); Cannon Somer SO 14th 100 yard freestyle (1:23.24); Brooke Hillman SR - 15th 100 yard freestyle (1:28.27); Ruble - 11th 100 yard backstroke (1:20.23); Wollert - 14th 100 yard backstroke (1:26.26); Taylor Bess SR - 15th 100 yard backstroke (1:36.76) and Brooke Hillman - 16th 100 yard breaststroke (1:44.62).

Boys

Girls

Paonia Delta

Paonia Cedaredge

Tournament MVPs Boys Dagan Rienks - Paonia Logan Freed - Delta

Girls Emily Pieper - Paonia Courtney Freeman - Ced.

ALUMNI CHAMPIONSHIP GAME WINNERS Year

Men’s Winners

Women’s Winners

2016 2017

Delta High School Paonia High School

Paonia High School Cedaredge High School

Church CONTINUED FROM C3 a third-period match I’ll have enough gas to finish.” Four minutes, 26 seconds into his last Warrior match, Church pinned Smith. In looking at other Warrior statistics, Church had the most technical falls in the least amount of time for the tournament, winning his first four matches by technical fall in a total of 13 minutes, 58 seconds. Church also scored the fastest technical fall

against Montrose, scoring 16 unanswered points in 1:57; and the third fastest technical fall time of 2:18. Including his championship pin, Church was eighth in the category of most pins and technical falls in the least amount of time. Church was also fourth in match points scored with 69. Church is quick to give credit to his teammates, including workout partner Gauge Lockhart, a sophomore wrestling

at 195. After practices, Church also gets time on the mat with assistant coach Kory Mills, a state runner-up for Delta in 2016. “Kory’s been a big part of the picture with Church,” said Curtis. But it’s Church’s attitude that makes him a winner, said Curtis. “Winning is an attitude. He really believes he’s going to do it this time,” said Curtis. In looking at where it will take him, “We’re just excited for him,” said Curtis.

Classifieds

December 27, 2017

Real Estate

D SECTION

BUY • SELL • TRADE

Real Estate

Delta County Independent

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Rentals FOR RENT: 2 BEDROOM, 1 bath in Delta close to middle school, with carport, no smokers, no pets, $900/ month, tenant pays utilities. 970-417-7926. (2x52)

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874-4421 Help Wanted HOTCHKISS MARSHAL’S Office is looking to employ an officer beginning in 2018. To apply please contact the Hotchkiss Town Clerk (970) 872-3663 or go online (townofhotchkiss. com) and down load an application for employment. Closing for applications will be on January 19, 2018. Job brief: We are looking for a responsible Deputy Marshal to maintain law and order, protect members of the public and their properties, prevent crime and improve citizens’ quality of life. The goal is to achieve community safety and crime reduction. Minimum Qualifications: Must be U.S. citizen, at least 21 years old, and having no felony convictions. Misdemeanors are handled on a case-bycase basis. Applicants may be financially responsible for additional expenses to the Town. Have a valid Colorado Driver’s License, and be POST Certified. Must be able to pass our hiring process, as well as interviews, a background check, written exam, drug test, and psychological evaluation. Education & Training: Applicants are required to have a high school diploma or a GED, BS degree in police science or related field is desirable and you must have Colorado POST certification. The Town of Hotchkiss is an EOE. (2x52)

Help Wanted �� 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) BOLINGER AND QUEEN is now accepting applications for a full-time position in Hotchkiss. Valid Colorado drivers license is required; CDL or shipping and receiving experience is helpful. 90 day trial period. Benefits package. Apply in person or call 970-872-3371. (2x52)

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

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D2 Wednesday, December 27, 2017 Miscellaneous

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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. WOMEN ONLY AA MEETings, Delta, Saturdays, 11:00 a.m., at St. Luke's Episcopal Church, 5th & Palmer (back door). PARENTS FREE! INFORMation and referrals to licensed child care providers, call Bright Futures Child Care Resource and Referral, 1-877-728-5613.

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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.

Public Service

WELCOME RETURNING Veterans, Post 9221 VFW meets at 5:00 p.m. on the 4th Thursday of each month in Cedaredge. To find out how to participate in promoting patriotism and assisting veterans, contact Wayne Hamrick, (970) 250-1180.

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

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.

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

DELTA FOOD PANTRY needs meals for Delta families who are temporarily in need. Donations of nonperishable food may be brought to 628 Meeker.

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CHECK OUT THE BOOK store at the library. You'll find a great selection of paperbacks at reasonable prices. 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. FAMILIES BELIEVING in families: Tandem Families is an innovative, private non-profit mentoring program providing services for at-risk children of Delta and Mont-rose counties. Anyone interested in volunteering their services or donating usable items should call 874-3000 or 252-7445.

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Delta County Independent

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. 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. HEALTHY BABIES START with early prenatal care. Delta County Health Department. Offers access to immediate, temporary Medicaid for pregnant women who qualify. 874-2165.

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Colorado Statewide �� Network To place a 25-word COSCAN Network ad in 91 Colorado newspapers for only $300, contact your local newspaper or call SYNC2 Media at 303-571-5117. �� Cash for Mineral Rights �� Call:�� Write: �� Email: ��

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Most people turn to their community newspaper for news before turning to any other media

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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)

CO FATHER’S NETWORKdedicated to providing community and education to fathers of special needs kids. Meets twice monthly on the 1st Saturday at 11 a.m. and the 3rd Monday at 6:30 p.m. - 511 E. 10th St, Delta. See our website for more details: www.codads. org

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.

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.

choose the community newspaper as their news source while only 13.2% turned to television and 13% turned to radio and the internet.

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.

* 2011 Community Newspaper Readership Survey. Based on a nationwide telephone survey of adults in markets served by newspapers of 15,000 or less circulation, the National Newspaper Association examined the relationship between Main Street America and its newspapers. Center for Advanced Social Research, Reynolds Journalism Institute, The Missouri School of Journalism.

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

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401 Meeker St. | Delta 970.874.4421

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Delta County Independent

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D6 Wednesday, December 27, 2017

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Delta County Independent

B A C K P A G E

Santa rests his boots in Cedaredge after a busy Christmas Photo courtesy of Reve Portraits

Santa had quite the conversation with Aden during the Cedaredge Parade of Lights earlier this month. While Aden was old enough to not be scared of Santa, some kids are shy or nervous, which Santa combats by singing “Rudolph the Red-Nosed Reindeer” or “Jingle Bells.”

Conﬁrming what thousands of Denver Broncos fans have long held true, Santa and Mrs. Claus are indeed Broncos fans! Even the family pup Ellie is a Broncos fan, Joe/Santa says. In addition to Ellie, Joe and Dana have four children and ﬁve grandchildren.

The story of Santa dates back to a Turkish man from a wealthy family, who, learning that women from poorer families would likely go into prostitution without a dowery, sneaked into homes in the night and left money for the women. He became known as St. Nick, and was also the patron saint of sailors. Sailors went around the world telling the story of the man who left gifts for the women, and the legend grew over time, and his name changed based on location where the sailors told his story. “There are all sorts of legends out there,” said Joe Agne, aka Santa, who has been playing Santa since the mid-1960s. Agne said he has no idea if the story itself is true, but the spirit of the story is true. Last year, at the Cedaredge community Christmas dinner, when someone asked him how old he was, he replied that he was 1,700 years old. The person replied, “Your skin looks so great!” to which Santa Joe replied “That’s because I get my lotion at Stacy’s on Main in Cedaredge!” — which is one of Santa’s favorite places to grab a cup of coffee. In this photo, Joe was portraying Saint Nicholas. Mrs. Claus (Agne’s wife Dana Jones) made both his Santa suit and his Saint Nicholas suit.

BY KAMI COLLINS Staff Writer

es, Virginia, there is a Santa Claus, and he lives in Cedaredge! It’s kind of a secret — not a lot of people know that the REAL Santa does indeed live in little Cedaredge. Santa has a pretty important job, but, honestly, he’s only busy a few weeks out of the year, since the elves do most of the work getting ready for Christmas. So Santa needed something else to occupy his time, when he wasn’t checking his list or delivering gifts or visiting with children. He applied for a job in Cedaredge, and, a little over a year ago, he moved here to take that job. Now remember, the identity of Santa is a secret — can you imagine if everyone in the world knew Santa really lived in Cedaredge? The poor man would have no peace! So, while he’s in Cedaredge, he goes by the name Joe Agne, and his other job is as the pastor of the Cedaredge Community United Methodist Church. And now that Christmas is over, Santa had a few hours to sit down and share his story. Santa began his career when he was in college, in the mid-1960s. Santa didn’t always think he was going to be Santa, so he went to school to study English and theater. And because even Santa has bills to pay, he decided he needed a part-time job. As these things happen, a friend of a friend hired him to play a mall Santa at Grant’s Square in Hinsdale, Ill., during the Christmas season. Santa chuckles when he talks about his first time on the job. Hinsdale was a fairly affluent place, and he remembers children walking in with lists already written out. But there were a few kids who skipped the list-making. “I still remember one child who told me, I want a vacuum cleaner for Christmas. My mom needs one,” he said. And another request, one he’d hear many times over the years: “What I want most for Christmas is for my Mom and Dad to stay together.” “To be Santa is to hear from children what hairdressers and bartenders hear from adults,” Joe said. “I have a lot of kids who know their parents aren’t well, and they’ll ask for their mommy to get better. Or kids who tell me what they most want for Christmas is for their daddy to get a job. “The most important thing is being present,” he said. “As Santa, I try to be present so that those kids know someone heard what was coming from deep inside them. I can’t determine whether Mom is going to get well, or if Dad is going to get a job, or even what toys they’re going to get on Christmas morning, but

they sure do know, I hope, that when we’re done talking, that someone cared enough to listen.” And while those conversations are very difficult, and all too frequent, Santa sees a silver lining. “For a child to say something like that, it’s so countercultural,” he said. These are not kids who show up with pre-written lists, kids who expect to get all of the latest tech toys and gadgets. “These are kids where compassion is still at the top,” he said. Though he’s best known for delivering Christmas wishes, which often translates to stuff, this Santa doesn’t really bother with the materialism of Christmas. That’s why the very first question he always asks kids is, “What does your mom want for Christmas?” followed by, “And what does your best friend want for Christmas?” “I do that to uncover the compassion that’s deep inside

all kids,” Santa said. “Some kids look at me like, ‘Santa, you’re blowing this whole deal! What do you mean, what does my mom want for Christmas?!’ ” But, the question has its intended effect — it makes kids stop and think, just for a second, about someone else in the hustle and bustle of the Christmas season. “God creates everybody with lots of compassion within them. When the compassion of kids is evident, that’s really important to me,” he said. Santa also has no time for the naughty-or-nice debate. “I tell kids that I’ve checked my computer, and the computer says that they’ve been good all year,” he explained. Moreover, he tells kids that his computer reports that all kids across the world have been good this year. “Kids love that,” he said. “I like the part of Santa that is grace. It’s not because kids have earned gifts, but gifts just come. I like that. I don’t like Santa Claus to be used as leverage to make kids be good.” Joe dislikes the song “Santa Claus is Coming To Town” for the same reason. “That’s a stand-in for God,” Joe said about the song. “Santa Claus is watching you. God is watching you. Don’t be bad because Santa will get you. God will get you. That’s awful. It’s awful theology and it’s awful for Santa.” The theology of grace is important in both his portrayal of Santa and in his ministry. Grace — the kind of grace that defines love freely given — is something both Santa and Joe believe in deeply and wholly. Santa’s grace extends to gifts under a tree on Christmas morning; faith explains that we’re saved simply because of God’s love. “What’s essential? It’s the new commandment of Jesus to love God, to love your neighbor — that’s what’s essential: to love,” Joe said. “To me, the important church holidays are Christmas and Easter,” Santa Joe said. “Christmas is when love is born. Love is born into the world, every year. And then what happened was that the Roman government was so threatened by love that they decided to kill love. The Easter story is that the tomb could not contain love. Love got out! Love is continually born into our lives and into the life of the world. Many have tried to contain love, to kill love, to constrain love. It’s not going to work. It’s never going to work. Love is too strong. Love is too powerful. In the long run, love always wins.” Wishing you all much love in the year to come. Merry Christmas!

Photo courtesy of Reve Portraits

“I have so much fun being Santa,” said Joe Agne of Cedaredge, who recently played Santa during the Parade of Lights. “The children of Cedaredge are really ﬁne kids,” he said. He’s been a Santa all over the country off and on for years, at small events and large. Sometimes he brings a chessboard, and he’ll play chess with kids. “There are awkward moments, because kids are honest, right?” he joked. Some kids have tried to pull his beard, but alas, it’s real. Others have asked him for very difﬁcult gifts, like a mom who isn’t sick or a dad to get a job. Joe has also been the Easter Bunny, and a clown. And FYI — Santa’s favorite cookie is a ginger cookie, but he’ll never turn down a freshly-baked chocolate chip cookie!