Delta County Independent, Jan 3, 2018 by Delta County Independent

NORTH FORK TIMES

SURFACE CREEK NEWS

MUNICIPAL ELECTION North Fork voters to decide on 12 town trustee seats, B1

HAPPY ENDING

New year brings a new home for Otto, B5

DELTA COUNTY

SPORTS GRIDIRON HONORS

Local athletes named to CHSAA All-State football squad, B7 JANUARY 3, 2018 VOL. 135, NO. 1

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INDEPENDENT

www.deltacountyindependent.com

GJ man arrested in Delta after pursuit BY PAT SUNDERLAND Managing Editor

Delta County sheriff ’s deputies arrested a Grand Junction man north of Delta last Wednesday after he led law enforcement on a pursuit along Highway 50. Trenton Miller, 38, was booked into the Mesa County Detention Facility Dec. 27 on charges of vehicle eluding, a Class 5 felony; prohibited use of a weapon, a Class 2 misdemeanor; unlawful use of a controlled substance, a Class 1 misdemenaor; and reckless driving, a Class 2 traffic misdemeanor. The pursuit began Tuesday evening after Montrose County deputies responded to a report of a man making suicidal and homicidal threats. According to a press release issued by the Mesa County Sheriff ’s Office, 911 dispatchers were told Miller was headed toward Delta-Montrose in a black Ford F-150 armed with a gun. Deputies were also informed Miller had made

threats toward himself and another party in the Montrose area. Miller was spotted driving east on Highway 50. He failed to pull over and vehicle pursuit began. The Delta County Sheriff ’s Office was notified as Miller approached Delta County. Sheriff ’s deputies and the Colorado State Patrol assisted in closing Highway 50 down at mile marker 60. The CSP successfully used stop sticks to bring Miller’s vehicle to a stop near Rattlesnake Gulch Road. Believing Miller to be armed, a specially equipped SWAT team from Mesa County was used to approach the truck. They found the vehicle abandoned and speculated Miller had taken off on foot. Mesa County sheriff ’s deputies, SWAT team members, the Delta County Sheriff ’s Office and Colorado State Patrol searched the area for Miller. An emergency notification was sent out to residents PURSUIT TO A3

Photo by Pat Sunderland

2018 arrival

José Jerémias Pacheco arrived a week early, at 5:53 a.m. on New Year’s Day, to become the ﬁrst baby of 2018 born at Delta County Memorial Hospital. His mother, Laura Pacheco of Montrose, received a basket full of clothing, toys and baby essentials from the hospital. José, who was named after his grandfather, weighed in at 7 pounds, 11.2 ounces. He was 19.5 inches in length and was delivered by Dr. Henry Lewis III.

City’s parks, trails Master Plan finalized BY PAT SUNDERLAND Managing Editor

The city’s Parks, Recreation, Open Space and Trails Master Plan was formally adopted in late December after months of public, city council and staff input. The city’s consultant, Logan Simpson, held three public hearings, met with a citizens’ advisory committee four times, and reviewed surveys mailed to every household in Delta and available online to every resident of Delta County. Jana McKenzie, a principal with Logan Simpson, said she was inspired by the number of people who showed up and participated in the discussion about the future of Delta’s parks and trails. “It was a really healthy process in my opinion,” she said. “Congratulations for participating and making it as good as it can be.” The Master Plan sets forth recommendations to improve the existing parks and recreation system while also identifying priorities for future actions and investments. City amenities currently include 148 acres of developed parks; 201 acres of open space/natural areas; 320 acres of golf courses, cemeteries and special uses; one 18-hole and one nine-hole disc golf course; seven neighborhood/community parks; 6.6 miles of trail; six mini parks/plazas; and six homeowners’ association parks. The city also owns the Cottonwood and Riverbend areas which could be developed for an estimated $14.7 million. During the planning process, the need to address deferred park maintenance emerged as a higher priority. A long list

INDEX

Accent ........................... A4 Activities ....................... A7 Back Page .................... C8 Business ........................ A5 Church ............................C4 Classifieds ...................C1-2 Editorial ......................... A2 Legals .............................C3 North Fork Times ........B1-4 Obituaries .................. A5-6 School Zone ...................B8 Service Directory ......... C7 Sports .............................B7 Surface Creek News ...B5-6 TV Listings ..................C5-6

of improvements to restrooms, play areas and irrigation systems adds up to $1.5 million. Logan Simpson calculated a minimum of $200,000 per year is needed to catch up; currently, the city budgets half that amount for parks maintenance. “It is clear that additional revenue is required to keep the city’s park system from further decline, and also to fund new projects,” the Master Plan concluded. The Master Plan identifies two key factors that are important to keeping the existing system in good condition — continuing to partner with the school district to maximize the benefits of public properties for recreational purposes, and establishing a dedicated funding source that will provide money to match grants. Council member Gerald Roberts questioned whether the project identified in the plan could be completed in the 10- or 20-year window identified in the Master Plan. Wilma Erven, director of parks, recreation and golf, responded, “It will be many years, many more than 20, to develop this plan. We all know what our financial situation is; we all know what our grant matching ability is, but this is an excellent road map for us to have.” Without a Master Plan in place, she added, it will be very difficult for the city to apply for grants to fund any of the projects. “We will do as much of it as we can,” she said. The key word is plan, said council member Ron Austin. “Without a plan, without a vision, we don’t know what to

prepare for, so we thank you for all of your great work.” “This does give us a living document we can start working with,” commented council member Christopher Ryan. Even before completion of the plan, the city responded

to citizen comments by purchasing a movable climbing wall and by pursuing a grant for improvements at Cleland Park. The city has applied for $200,000 from GOCO to make the playground ADA compliant, as well as construct

an ADA trail from the playground to the parking area on 7th Street. The city also intends to enlarge the horseshoe pits from four to six, fence the horseshoe pit area and upgrade the sand volleyball court.

Sweitzer hike kicks off 2018 BY DON BENJAMIN Staff Writer

Photo by Don Benjamin

Cathy Hartt of Montrose put her senior dogs through their paces on New Year’s Day. Sazi and Kachina were eager to travel on but Maizzy decided to ride.

On the first morning of 2018, 50 area residents (and five dogs) hiked three miles around Sweitzer Lake State Park near Delta. It was the largest group ever to turn out for the activity. The hike, led by Ranger Scott Rist from Colorado Parks and Wildlife (CPW), was one of hundreds of “First Day Hikes” held nationwide on Jan. 1 to encourage people to get outdoors and experience their state parks. Rist provided interpretive information regarding the history of Sweitzer Lake and the habits of area wildlife. He serves as senior ranger for the Colorado state parks located at Sweitzer Lake, Crawford, and Paonia. The Jan. 1 hike was sponsored by CPW and Great Outdoor Colorado (GOCO), an organization which invests a portion of Colorado lottery proceeds into preserving and enhancing state parks and other state recreational sites. Sweitzer Lake is a popular summer destination for swimmers and boaters. Fishing is available for warm water species and waterfowl hunting is allowed in season. Sweitzer is one of 41 state parks FIRST DAY HIKE TO A2

DCMH, 50J find new lawyer

DUI/DWAI have serious consequences

Attorney Aaron Clay is beginning his transition to retirement by resigning as legal counsel for Delta County Memorial Hospital and Delta County Joint School District. After conducting separate searches and interviewing prospective replacements, both entities selected Julie Huffman, who joined Clay & Dodson in February 2017. Huffman is a graduate of Cortez High School and the University of Northern Colorado. She obtained her law degree from Salmon P. Chase School of Law in Kentucky nine years ago. She practiced family law and is broadening her knowledge to broader civil matters. Clay represented DCMH for nine years and has worked with the school district for 38 years, first in association with Jim Briscoe and then full-time since 1988.

New statistics from the Colorado Department of Revenue, Division of Motor Vehicles indicate 96 percent of impaired driving suspects have their driver licenses revoked, regardless of whether they are ever convicted of a DUI in court. This finding underscores the consequences Colorado drivers face if they attempt to drive impaired. Data provided for Delta County indicates 137 DUI/DWAI charges were filed in 2017; the average blood alcohol content (BAC) for suspects was 0.148. If your ability is impaired to the “slightest degree” by alcohol, drugs or even prescription medications, or if your BAC is found to be in excess of .05 but less than .08, you can be charged with driving while ability impaired, or DWAI. Those who are “substantially incapable” of operating a vehicle after consuming alcohol, drugs or prescription medications, or whose BAC is at or above .08, may be charged with driving under the influence, or DUI.

A2 Wednesday, January 3, 2018

LOCAL NEWS

Delta County Independent

Registration opens for early blood draws, health fairs Dates and times for this year’s health fairs have been announced. The events are sponsored annually by Delta County Memorial Hospital and area Lions clubs. Early Blood Draws Paonia — Wednesday, Feb. 7, Paonia Campus of Technical College of the Rockies, 6:30 to 9:30 a.m. Cedaredge — Thursday, Feb. 8, Cedaredge Civic Center, 6:30 to 9:30 a.m. Delta — Friday and Saturday, Feb. 9 and 10, at the DCMH oncology classrooms, 6:30 to 10 a.m. 2018 Health Fairs Paonia — Tuesday, March 13, Paonia Campus of Technical College of the Rockies, 6:30 to 10 a.m. Delta — Thursday, March 15, Bill Heddles Recreation Center, 6:30 to 11 a.m. Cedaredge — Friday, March 16, Cedaredge Civic Center, 6:30 a.m. to 10 a.m. Call-in appointments are scheduled for Jan.

19 and 20 from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. at 888-5926255. People can set up appointments for early blood draws or the health fairs at all three locations. Online registration for early blood draws begins Jan. 4 through the hospital’s website, deltahospital. org. Online registration for health fairs starts Jan. 4 as well and remains open through March 12. A Social Security number is optional for online registration. Some walk-ins can be accommodated the days of the events, but may require waiting for those who have appointments. No Price Changes There are no price increases this year for health screens. All health screens offered in 2017 will be the same for this year as well. In 2018 individual results will be mailed by Quest and may take up to three weeks to be received. (In previous years DCMH mailed out results within approxi-

mately two weeks.) Participants who need results quicker may sign up for results through Quest’s website. Early blood draw and health fair participants need to fast for 12 hours, drink lots of water (to make it easier to draw the blood), take daily meds and may have one cup of black coffee without sugar or cream. Please bring cash or checks; credit cards and insurance are not accepted. Medicare or Medicaid will not pay for the blood draws at health fairs. If you want blood drawn, your family doctor will have to write an order for them to be done at the DCMH laboratory or at another medical facility. Health Screen Costs, Explanations Health screen profile, $42 — 32 metabolic functions, lipid panel with direct LDL, TSH, liver, kidney, muscle, bone, uric acid, iron panel with ferritin. CBC (complete blood count), $21 — Screening presents a general picture

nearly 12,000 acres near Denver. Delta County residents are fortunate to have three state parks in close proximity. Sweitzer Lake State Park is three miles south of Delta just off Highway 50. Crawford State Park is located adjacent to Crawford Reservoir, 1 1⁄2 miles south of the town of Crawford on Highway 92. Paonia State Park is 17

miles east of the town of Paonia on Highway 133. Crawford and Sweitzer are open year round. Paonia is open seasonally. State parks are fee areas costing $7 per visit. An annual pass costing $70 admits the purchaser to all state parks. Annual passes may be purchased at Crawford. Call 970921-5721 for operating hours.

First Day Hike FROM PAGE A1 administered by CPW. A surprising number of Colorado residents have never visited a state park. The parks are located statewide and each one offers unique views and amenities. The parks range in size from the 48-acre Rifle Falls State Park in Garfield County to the Golden Gate Canyon State Park that spans

of overall blood health and checks for infection, anemia and early signs of leukemia. PSA (for men over age 40), $31. Hemoglobin A1C, $36 — Provides an average blood glucose level over four months and is a nonfasting screening. Recommended for anyone with a family history of diabetes. Vitamin D (sunshine vitamin), D2, D3 and total, $41 — Concise measurement of D2 level for vitamin and nutritional absorption, D3 for conversion of sunshine absorption, and total amount of D to define sufficient, insufficient or deficient level. Cardio CRP (C-reactive protein), $40 — Elevated levels of C-reactive protein can indicate vascular inflammation. Inflammation may cause

cholesterol deposits to break off and clog an artery. Gluten sensitivity (celiac/tpru test), $45 — A simple screening test for gluten sensitivity that measures antibodies to an enzyme (tissue tanasglutaminease) which is a normal enzyme found in the digestive system. Vitamin B12 and folate levels, $41 — Essential for production of red blood cells, the function of nerve cells, and is required for DNA replication. Lack of these can cause anemia, fatigue, depression and poor memory. Testosterone, total male, $45 — A hormone produced that regulates the retension of protein in the body and supports muscle mass, bone strength and sexual characteristics. Low T can cause hair loss, weight gain and decreased libi-

do. Testosterone, total female, $45 — A hormone produced that contributes to lean muscle mass, bone density and maintaining libido. Low T can cause brittle hair, decreased bone and muscle strength and diminished libido. Insure Fit colon screening kit, $39 — Specific to the hemoglobin and does not react with non-human hemoglobin, vitamins, drugs or peroxidase from food sources. No specific diet required and brush stool for easy sampling. For additional questions or if you are having difficulty with on-line registration please contact Patti Kalahar, 874-2291, pkalahar@deltahospital. org; Paula Carter, 8742298, pcarter@delta hospital.org or Jessica Good, 874-6411, jgood@ deltahospital.org.

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. 25: At about 6 p.m., deputies spotted a vehicle stopped sideways at the intersection of 1800 and G roads. As deputies approached, the driver took off. The vehicle was stopped on 5th Street, where Michael Alexan-

der, 48, was asked to perform roadside maneuvers. He was subsequently arrested for driving under the influence of alcohol and violation of a restraining order prohibiting the use of alcohol. During the early morning hours of Christmas Day, a shop on Stony Creek Road, Hotchkiss, was forcibly entered. Neighbors reported seeing lights on inside around 2:30 a.m. The shop owner reported a plasma cutter, welder, chop saws and air jacks had been stolen. The case is under investigation. Dec. 26: At about 7:30 a.m., a caregiver looked through the window of an Eckert home and spotted her 85-year-old patient on the floor. The house was locked. The caregiver went next door to see if neighbors had a key while the ambulance and deputies were dispatched to the scene. Dec. 27: At 10:30 a.m., Cedaredge firefighters responded to a trailer fire at 19380 Oak Creek Road, Orchard City. The trailer was completely destroyed. The home was occupied by James Brasiel and was owned by his uncle. Brasiel told deputies he’d just started a fire in the wood stove and may have left the door open. He stepped outside and when he reentered the home it was on fire. A Crawford resident called with information about two chainsaws that had been stolen from an accident scene on Dec. 12. Three juveniles escaped serious injury in a rollover accident on F50 Road near Crawford at about 3 p.m. It appears an unlicensed 15-yearold male was driving the vehicle. The Colorado State Patrol handled the investigation. Dec. 29: While on patrol at about 2 a.m., deputies spotted smoke coming from the Mike’s Mobile Shredding truck parked at 670 1675 Road, Delta. When Delta firefighters arrived on the scene, flames were coming out from the bottom of the truck. Damage was minimal. Owner Michael Klinger speculated the shredding mechanism had gotten hot. A resident of Alkali Basin Road north of DELTA COUNTY

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

Delta reported a suspicious vehicle located in a gully. Deputies found a 1997 Ford Expedition with Colorado license plates and determined it had been reported stolen out of Delta. The vehicle was towed to an impound lot for followup by the Delta Police Department. A man living on Surface Creek Road, Cedaredge, found five of the six cluster mailboxes open at his address. At about noon, deputies were dispatched to Delta County Memorial Hospital to take an accident report from Michael Goetzfried, 67, of Evergreen. He suffered minor injuries when his ATV flipped over in the ‘dobies north of Delta. Deputies returned to the hospital emergency room at about 6:30 p.m. to interview a 17-yearold Cedaredge male who accidently shot himself in the hand. He was cleaning a 45 cal. handgun that he believed was unloaded. The shooting was deemed accidental. Dec. 30: A woman on H75 Road, Delta, reported that two packages that had been delivered to her home by the U.S. Postal Service had turned up missing. The USPS tracking system confirmed delivery to that address. The theft of tires, wheels and exhaust pipes from vehicles stored at a residence on 2000 Road, Delta, was reported. The homeowner said he had been out of town for several months, so it’s not certain when the theft occurred. Dec. 31: Stop ‘n Save in Paonia reported a gas skip at about 3 p.m. The subject was driving a green Subaru with a bike rack. Jan. 1: Four deputies and a Colorado State Patrol trooper responded to the report of a fight on Sunridge Drive, Delta, at about 2 a.m. Four adults were reported to be physically and actively involved in a fight inside the home. Deputies found all four to be highly intoxicated and their stories to be very confusing. During his interview, Martin Andrade Avalos, 26, of Delta became verbally combative, failed to obey instructions, and then began kicking and striking deputies. He was finally restrained and arrested. The deputies were not injured. Andrade Avalos was charged with resisting arrest, second degree assault on a peace officer and violation of a protection order. His wife, Elvisa Perez, 37, was charged with third degree assault as an act of domestic violence and violating a restraining order. Both parties were transported to Delta County Memorial Hospital to be medically cleared before they were taken to jail.

LOCAL NEWS

Delta County Independent

Wednesday, January 3, 2018

Library district pieces together literacy program BY TRACY IHNOT Delta County Libraries

Delta County Libraries has administered an adult literacy program in Delta County for nearly 20 years with funds acquired through a federal grant. In June 2017, denial of the 2017-2018 grant application left library district staff in shock. “The program took a big hit,” says Gail Srebnik, the literacy program’s administrator. We relied entirely on the grant to compensate eight highly qualified educators as well as covering other program expenses.” The Adult Education and Family Literacy (AEFLA) Grant, administered by the Colorado Department of Education, aims to improve and expand adult education and literacy services in Colorado. Historically, the grant covered a vast majority of the budget for

Delta County Libraries’ adult literacy program. Most significantly, the library district budget included the annual salary of the literacy program administrator while outside funding sources, including the grant, covered all other program salaries and expenses. The competitive grant application submitted by the district for fiscal year 2017-18 requested $150,000 and scored high enough to meet funding criteria, despite its denial. Library district staff filed and lost an appeal with the state and then

began the inevitable restructuring of the program under severe budgetary constraints. Srebnik’s position as program administrator continues on a part-time basis in the hope of securing alternative sources of funding. Her efforts have resulted in three separate grant awards since June 2017. El Pomar awarded the district a two-year grant that provides $5,000 each year and the Wish You Well Foundation awarded the district $10,000. Both grants will fund ESL programming and

Photo by Pat Sunderland

Christmas ride

Anthony Armendariz, Zzyzxk Rasmusen and their brothers, Anthony and Keegan, tried out their Christmas scooters at Delta’s skate park during the holiday break. With temperatures reaching the lower 50s, the trails, playgrounds and picnic areas at Conﬂuence Park were equally busy with folks enjoying the mild weather. After a teacher in-service day on Tuesday, Jan. 2, kids are back in class for the second semester of the school year.

high school equivalency preparation and testing. Vernon School Supplies awarded $1,000 for ESL programming and a small gift certificate for supplies. “While we are grateful for the support, it is a temporary fix,” says Srebnik. “If we are going to continue offering a program to the people of Delta County who need these services, we will need to find other sources of funding in the future.” As of January 2018, two educators resumed teaching ESL classes at the Delta and Hotchkiss locations. The district continues to offer high school equivalency preparation and testing, and an online distance learning option. “We have been accommodating adults seeking high school equivalency diplomas with flexible test scheduling,” Srebnik states. “Since June, we have awarded six diplomas.” Srebnik will continue to administrator the program part-time as long as funding remains. “Unfortunately, along with losing the grant, the district is facing other financial challenges,” says Lea Hart, district director of Delta County Libraries. “The library district’s overall budget is down considerably due to the devaluing of the mill levy increment from 7.9 percent to 7.2 percent of property value in Delta

County and all of Colorado. It may not seem like much but that percentage translates to an overall 5 percent budget cut for the libraries in 2018. It is just not feasible for the district to absorb the expenses once covered by

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JANUARY ��

Blue Moon

O’Brien: Master Plan should support healthy lifestyles BY ANNETTE BRAND Staff Writer

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Delta County health director Karen O’Brien proposed to the Delta County Planning Commission at its Dec. 20 meeting that health issues be built into the Delta County Master Plan update. O’Brien said that public health is about healthy citizens, healthy environment, healthy nutrition and injury prevention. “Healthy citizens bring down health care costs,” O’Brien said. “‘Healthy citizens’ involves disease control, immunizations, health education and policy development for healthy lifestyles, WIC (women, infants, children) nutrition, family planning, and access to care,” she said. Injury prevention can be accomplished with methods such as car seat safety, helmet use and proper positioning of infants while sleeping. Healthy environment includes clean water, clean air, regular inspections of restaurants, schools and child care facilities, onsite wastewater treatment systems,

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testing for radon and lead, and proper waste tire disposal. O’Brien advocates health equity for everyone, regardless of income. Good health can be compromised by tobacco use, alcohol use, chronic diseases, cardiovascular health problems and teenage pregnancies. O’Brien explained that the benefit in including health issues in the Master Plan update will mean healthy citizens and environment have a positive effect on healthcare costs. “We all share the cost burden of treating individuals who have illnesses and chronic diseases,” she said. “The county’s support for healthy lifestyles and behavioral changes will support the efforts in obtaining grants since it will demonstrate that public health is a priority in Delta County.” The county health department is supported by grants, grants written, defended and obtained by the employees of that department. When asked about the number of employees in the health department, O’Brien said there are 12.3 FTE (full time equivalents) and each position is supported by grants written by the department’s employees. The cost savings is significant when the grant includes monies for training, she added. Planning commission

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FROM PAGE A1 within a five-mile radius advising them to shelter in place. Delta County Sheriff Fred McKee reports a total of 317 Code Red calls were made. After about three hours, the highway was re-opened. At about 10 a.m., Delta County sheriff ’s deputies were notified that a man had been spotted in a canal near Varner Equipment, just off Highway 50. After a night out in the cold, Miller was taken into custody without incident. He was not armed. According to the MCSO press release, Miller also has a warrant for an unrelated Grand Junction Police Department case.

the grant. However, we are doing everything we can to continue providing these much-needed services in Delta County.” To learn more about Delta County Libraries’ literacy program, visit del talibraries.org/literacy/.

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Ham, Mushroom & Swiss Cheese

member Angela Mackey, who worked in the nonprofit field for many years, noted that the county’s official support of public health through incorporating that goal in the Master Plan update will enable the health department to obtain future grants.

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A4 Wednesday, January 3, 2018

ACCENT

Delta County Independent

VFW post, auxiliary still dream of meeting hall tion. They’ve also reconsidered their original plan to update the community house. “We were told the roof can be fixed, but when we started looking at what else the building might need, and not knowing what we’d have to replace next, we decided to go for a new building.

BY PAT SUNDERLAND Managing Editor

Six years ago, VFW Post #3571 purchased the North Delta Community House, intending to transform the vacant building into a post hall. Since then, post and auxiliary members have hosted several events to raise funds for renova-

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In the long run, I think it will serve us better,” said Della Ware, auxiliary president. The North Delta Community House has hosted square dances, weddings and receptions. “It would be nice to keep it, but I understand it was also condemned at one point by the city,” Ware said. “I’ve had it in my heart to do this project for a long time, ever since I became a member of the VFW,” she added. “Right now, we don’t have a place to meet at all.” Monthly meetings are temporarily being held at First Baptist Church in Delta. On the first Monday of the month, members gather at 6 p.m. for a potluck dinner, followed by post and

auxiliary meetings at 7 p.m. “It would be nice to have our own building,” Ware said. Cleary Buildings has been contacted about a 42x64-foot steel building that would include a large meeting area, kitchen and bathrooms, plus space for a museum and an ice cream bar. The building would be made available to the community. Ware said a memorial garden will be established outside the building, to complement the flags that are on display. To make the new building a reality, the VFW post still needs to raise close to $100,000. The next fundraiser is Friday, Jan. 19, at the Delta Elks Lodge. A din-

Photo by Pat Sunderland

The North Delta Community Hall, located just off Highway 50 between 1550 and 1600 roads, will be demolished if VFW Post #3571 can raise enough funds to replace it with a steel building.

ner of all-you-can-eat er is the VFW’s annual chili, salad, corn bread golf tournament, schedand dessert will be served uled at Devil’s Thumb from 5 to 7 p.m. A 1950s Golf Club May 19. sock hop with DJ Skip The post is also workfollows from 8 to 11 p.m. ing with the Citizens A silent auction, costume Bank of Ouray to idencontest and cake walk tify grant opportunities. are also planned. Cost To learn more about of the dinner and dance the fundraisers, or how is $20 for adults and $5 you can help the VFW kids 6-12, or $10 for the hall become a reality, The Delta Hubwheel- 773-4495 to verify dance dance only. contact Della or Corky ers Square Dance Club dates and details. Another big fundrais- Ware at 872-3327. will host dances on Saturday nights, Jan. 6 and 20, 7-9 p.m., at Bill Heddles Recreation Center, 531 N. Palmer Street in Delta. The Jan. 6 dance will be a “Pajama Dance,” with dancers encouraged to wear bedtime attire, especially if they received any as Christmas gifts! Jan. 20 will be a regular dance with no special theme. Both dances will feature club caller Naaman Moorehouse. Come early for “Plus Workshop” at 6:30 p.m. Dances are “Mainstream” with “Plus” tips. Round dances are to Photo submitted recordings. Bring refreshments to share during the evening. If coming Delta High School students from Mr. Kevan’s American Sign Language from out of town, please class came to Lincoln Elementary to give a sign language lesson to Mrs. call 970-835-3771 or 970Anderson’s kindergarten class. Some DHS students are wearing pajamas, in keeping with the theme ‘Twas the Night Before Christmas for a high school dress-up day.

Hubwheelers plan PJ dance Saturday night

Introduction to sign language

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Annual meeting of Native American Cultural Programs planned Jan. 10 Native American Cultural Programs will host its annual meeting Wednesday, Jan. 10, at 3:30 p.m. at the Delta Library, 211 W. 6th

Providing emergency food and shelter to the hungry and homeless of Delta County. ��

Volunteer or donate and help those most in need right here at home!

Street. The Native American Cultural Programs organization is dedicated to educating those around us about the history of Native Americans in this area. This is an important meeting. Please plan to attend. There are three urgent vacancies on the board of directors that need to be filled. A short letter of intent should be given to vice president Sue Moon before the meeting. Contact her at 970-433-4763 for details.

SHOP LOCALLY

A film, “How the West Was Lost,” will be shown, for participants’ education and enjoyment.

AARP offers drivers ed Bill Heddles Recreation Center will host the AARP Smart Driver program Monday, Jan. 15, from 8 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. Save money on insurance and keep up on newer traffic laws. The cost is $15 for AARP members and $20 for non-members. Pre-registration is required; call Carol Layton at 399-3113 to register. The course will be repeated Monday, Feb. 9, 8 a.m. to 12:30 p.m.

BIRTHS

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James Vette and Itzel Bojorquez of Delta are the parents of a son, Angel Jay Vette, born Dec. 23, 2017, at Delta County Memorial Hospital. He weighed 7 pounds, 8 ounces and was 20 inches in length. Matthew and Heather Dennis of Delta are the parents of a daughter, Brooklynn Dennis, born Dec. 23, 2017, at Delta County Memorial Hospital. She weighed 9 pounds, 8 ounces and was 20.75 inches in length. Tyler and Breanna O’Neil of Delta are the parents of a son, Greyson Ryder O’Neal, born Dec. 26, 2017, at Delta County Memorial Hospital. He weighed 7 pounds, 13 ounces and was 20 inches in length. Sarah Argueta is the parent of a daughter, Mercy Ray Argueta, born Dec. 27, 2017, at Delta County Memorial Hospital. She weighed 8 pounds, 7.8 ounces and was 20 inches in length.

OBITUARIES

Delta County Independent

Downers Grove, Ill.; 10 grandchildren; and 11 great-grandchildren. He was preceded in death by his first wife, Beatrice; eight brothers; and three sisters. Taylor Funeral Service and Crematory is handling the arrangements. Visit the internet obituary and sign the online guest registry at www. taylorfuneralservice.com.

Amos Leon

Lifetime Delta resident Amos Leon died Dec. 29, 2017, at Willow Tree Care Center in Delta. He was 80. A memorial service will be held at 11 a.m. Saturday, Jan. 6, at the Delta Elks Lodge. There will be a celebration of life service with dinner and beverages for all following the memorial service. Mr. Leon was born Oct. 14, 1937, in Delta to Francisco and Mauricia (Caustrita) Leon. He spent his childhood and attended school in Delta, graduating from Delta High School in 1956. On Sept. 9, 1957, he married Beatrice Gallegos in Delta. She preceded him in death on July 31, 1997. On April 9, 2011, he married Virginia Urbish in Delta. Mr. Leon was a mink rancher by trade and worked for Delta County School District. He was a member of Delta Elks Lodge #1235, and enjoyed tinkering in his shop, four-wheeling, gardening, flying, and spending time with family and friends. He was on several community boards and was active in youth athletic activities. He is survived by his wife, Virginia UrbishLeon of Delta; four children, Tim (Melinda) Leon of Grand Junction, Tammy (Rod) Fraser of Delta, Teri (Mark) Stephenson of Eckert, and Scott (Susie) Leon of Paonia; sister, Lydia (Landy) McBride of

Clinton Davis

Longtime Delta resident Clinton H. Davis died Dec. 20, 2017, at Colorow Care Center in Olathe. He was 84. Services will be held at a later date. Clinton Howard Davis was born May 2, 1933, to Archie and Norma (Eudy) Davis in Grand Junction. He spent his early years in Hayden and moved to Delta when he was two years old. He graduated from Delta High School in 1952. After high school, he served in the U.S. Army. On Aug. 24, 1954, he married Barbara Jean Hudgens in Delta. They shared 58 years of marriage until her death on April 7, 2013. Mr. Davis worked for Morcan Engineering, Mount Sopris Instruments and Tri County Water throughout his career. He enjoyed hunting, fishing, collecting antiques and spending time with family and friends. He is survived by his son, Kevin Davis; daughter, Glinda Petty; two brothers, Donald (Bonnie) Davis and Terry (Colleen) Davis; sister, Judy (Wendell) Turner; eight grandchildren; 16 great-grandchildren; and three great-great-grandchildren. He was preceded in death by his son, Kenneth Davis; and two sisters, Virginia Beaver and Tami Sitton. Taylor Funeral Service and Crematory is handling the arrangements.

Visit the internet obituary and sign the online guest registry at www. taylorfuneralservice.com.

Jerry Graves

Delta resident Jerry N. Graves died Dec. 26, 2017, at his home. He was 74. A memorial service will be held at a later date. Jerry Norman Graves was born on Jan. 31, 1943, to Clair and Georgia (Wilson) Graves in Kimball, Neb. His family moved to Boulder, where he attended school, when he was very young. Mr. Graves lived in Kremmling before moving to Delta six years ago. He enjoyed fishing, walking, jigsaw puzzles, dogs and general tinkering. He is survived by his children, Wayne Graves of Missouri, Allan (Kelly) Graves of Tucson, Ariz., Katie (Aaron) Sall of Windsor, Ralph (Bernadette) Graves, Jake (Heather) Graves and Ivan (Megan) Graves, all of Kremmling; sister, Jean Paull; 12 grandchildren; and extended family. He was preceded in death by his sister, Penny Rugg; and infant daughter, Vicky. Taylor Funeral Service and Crematory is handling the arrangements. Visit the internet obituary and sign the online guest registry at www. taylorfuneralservice.com.

Don Howard

Lifetime Delta resident Don B. Howard died Dec. 24, 2017, at his home. He was 71. A graveside service was held Dec. 28 at the Delta City Cemetery. He was born May 18, 1946, to Billy and Marilyn (Miller) Howard in Delta. He spent his childhood and attended school in Delta, graduating from Delta High School in 1964. He earned a bachelor’s degree in biological science from Colo-

Wednesday, January 3, 2018

rado State University. He worked for the Forest Service building trails in western Colorado during the summers while he was in college. On Sept. 14, 1984, he married Judy DeLisle in Grand Junction. Mr. Howard worked as a chemist for Skyland Foods and Holly Sugar; he was also a grounds-

keeper for Delta City Cemetery. He was a member of the Delta Elks Lodge. He enjoyed researching genealogy and attending his children’s sporting events. He is survived by his wife of 33 years, Judy Howard; sons, Cully Howard and Hank Howard; daughter, Hannah How-

ard; brothers, Dave Howard and Bob Howard; and two sisters, Becky Vezakis and Linda Howard. He was preceded in death by his parents. Taylor Funeral Service and Crematory is handling the arrangements. Visit the internet obituary and sign the online guest registry at www. taylorfuneralservice.com.

Photo submitted

Members of the Veterans of Foreign Wars, its auxiliary, and cadets of the Civil Air Patrol, with their leaders, pose in front of the American Service Women’s Memorial they decorated for Christmas.

A tribute to veterans Members of Lee Marts Veterans of Foreign Wars Post 3571 and its auxiliary were joined by cadets from the Delta County squadron of the Civil Air Patrol, their leaders, and VFW auxiliary members from the Clifton post to decorate the American Service Women’s Memorial in Collbran for Christmas. This decoration party is an annual event for post and auxiliary members, who meet at the Grand Junction VA Hospital and deliver good cheer, Christmas gifts and sing Christmas carols to the residents of the VA nursing home facil-

ity. Since the VA Hospital is “on the way” to Collbran, it’s a great place to meet and start off the day working with and for veterans. From the hospital, the group goes up to the memorial in Collbran to decorate the tree provided by the town of Collbran and the memorial itself with hundreds of handmade ornaments, each carrying the name and branch of service of a woman veteran. The annual trek gives Delta veterans and their family members a chance to renew their ties with fellow veterans, in person

or in spirit. The American Service Women’s Memorial is one of the best kept secrets of western Colorado. There is no sign on Interstate 70 to direct travellers to its location in Collbran, and only a small sign on Colorado Highway 65 points the way. Many area residents have never heard of the memorial, let alone seen it. The memorial was completed in the 1990s as a lasting tribute to the thousands of women who served their country in the military, some of whom gave the ultimate sacrifice for their country ... their lives.

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DCMH Primary Care ��

Top 100 Rural Hospitals in the Nation for the second year in a row.

A6 Wednesday, January 3, 2018

Dr. Marvin Cox

Dr. Charles Marvin Cox of Delta died Dec. 29, 2017, at his home. He was 85. He was born in Delta on May 5, 1932, to Henry and Fern (Hotchkiss) Cox. He graduated from Delta High School in 1950, attended Western State College in Gunnison and then went on to earn a doctorate of dental surgery from Creighton University in Omaha, Neb., in 1957. While at Creighton, he married Camilla Kenworthy on Aug. 1, 1953. After graduation, he joined his uncle, Dr. Marvin A. Cox, in his dental practice in Delta. Six months later, he was drafted by the U.S. Air Force and served as a dentist for the next 30 years, retiring as a colonel. During his time in the U.S. Air Force, he completed his post-graduate studies at the University of Alabama Dental School in Birmingham, Ala.; served as chief of prosthodontics at Barksdale Air Force Base in Shreveport, La.; directed the Area Dental Laboratory for the European Theater at the U.S. Air Force Hospital in Weisbaden, Germany; was appointed as a special consultant to the surgeon general for Europe; and returned to Barksdale AFB as director of Area Dental Laboratory. He was a member of the American Dental Association, the American Prosthodontics Society and a charter member of the Federation of Prosthodontics Societies. From 1984-1991, he owned and operated an

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OBITUARIES Apple computer store in Shreveport, La. In 1991, Dr. Cox returned to Delta. He was a member of St. Michael Catholic Church, sang in the choir and served in various positions on the parish council. He was also a fourth degree Knight and a member of the Knights of Columbus for 65 years. In addition, he was secretary and treasurer of the Delta Food Pantry. He enjoyed performing in local theater groups, fly fishing and driving the tractor on his son’s farm. He is survived by his wife, Camilla; brother, Kenneth (Janet) of Grand Junction; sister-in-law, Kay of Cortez; aunt, Lucretia Cox of Delta; eight children, Cindy Simpson of Houston, Texas, Kevin (Yvonne) of Denver, Kelly (Stephanie) of Delta, Carla (John) Hauser of Shreveport, La., Celeste (Joe) Gardner of Vancleave, Miss., Kris (Rachel) of Grand Junction, Kerry of Shreveport, La., and Keith (Penny) of Albuquerque, N.M.; 24 grandchildren; and five great-grandchildren. He was preceded in death by his brother, Gordon; and son-in-law, Robert Simpson. Rosary will be recited on Thursday, Jan. 4, at 6 p.m., and funeral Mass will be Friday, Jan. 5, at 10 a.m., all at St. Michael Catholic Church in Delta. Memorial contributions may be made to St. Michael Catholic Church, 628 Meeker St., Delta, CO 81416, or Delta Food Pantry, 628 Meeker St., 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.

He attended Cedaredge schools and graduated in 1948. He joined Cedaredge First Baptist Church in 1957 and remained an active member. He enjoyed working in his shop, family and friends. He is survived by his wife, Dorothy Frost; daughters, Vickie (Bob) Anderson of Cedaredge and Marla (Joe) Fockler of Montrose; sons/nephews, Bruce (Sue) Boelter of Northglenn and Tyson (Tami) Hendricks of Grand Island, Neb.; brothers, Lee (JoAnn) Frost of Clifton and Vern (Connie) Frost of Cedaredge; sisters, Alice Sanburg of Eckert, Velma Hodges of Grand Junction and Joyce (Ray) Frey of Cedaredge; sister-inlaw, Annie Hendricks of Grand Junction; grandchildren, Brenda Joy, Sam (Lindsay) Anderson, Daniel (Jessica) Fockler, Jared (Jannie) Fockler, Marshall Fockler, Andrea (Joe) Robinson, Amanda (Craig) Shindledecker and Wesley Boelter; 10 great-grandchildren; and extended family. He was preceded in death by a son, Steve Frost. Taylor Funeral Service and Crematory is handling the arrangements. Visit the internet obituary and sign the online guest registry at www. taylorfuneralservice.com.

Dorman Frost

Kenneth Allen Egbert died Dec. 23, 2017, at Horizons Care Center. He was 78. He was born Sept. 21, 1939, to Earle and Perle (Davidson) Egbert in Dodge City, Kan. The family moved to Burlington and then to the Limon area where he attended a country school. The family later moved to Delta and he graduated from Delta High School in 1957. He attended Intermountain Bible College and Mesa College in Grand Junction. After two years of school he returned to Limon with his family. He enlisted in the U.S. Navy and served two years in Guam before receiving a hardship discharge to return home to assist with the family farm. On April 10, 1964, he married Barbara Grant. They farmed in the Limon area before feeling the call to enter full-time ministry. Mr. Egbert was commissioned and licensed in the First Baptist Church in Limon. His first church was in Fruita. He later served in Florence and Monte Vista. He and his wife took a 10-year leave of absence and moved to Florida and Alabama. They returned to Cedaredge in 1980 and

Longtime Cedaredge resident Dorman Floyd Frost died Dec. 28, 2017, at his home. He was 87. Funeral services will be held at 2 p.m. Saturday, Jan. 6, at the First Baptist Church of Cedaredge. Interment will take place at Cedaredge Cemetery. Mr. Frost was born on March 4, 1930, to Floyd and Olive Frost. He moved from Fort Morgan to Cedaredge with his family when he was 4.

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Kenneth Egbert

Delta County Independent

he worked in the auto parts industry. In the mid 1980s Kenneth and Barbara returned to fulltime ministry, serving the Olathe Assembly of God and churches in Torrington, Wyo., and Gunnison. He was ordained in the Assemblies of God in 1995. He served as interim and fill-in pastor in churches across the western U.S. Due to declining health he retired from ministry in 2005. He enjoyed traveling,

camping, vintage cars, spending time with his grandchildren and sharing his passion for the Lord. He is survived by his wife, Barbara of Cedaredge; children, Jeff of Omaha, Neb., and Kelly (Richard) Reeder of Montrose; grandchildren, Taylor Reeder of Cody, Wyo., and Kyle Roberts of Montrose; sister, Ramona Watson of Cedaredge; brother, Vic Egbert of Cedaredge; and extended family.

Services were held Jan. 2 at True Life Church in Cedaredge. Memorial contributions may be made to the Assembly of God Aged Ministers Assistance Fund, 1445 North Booneville Avenue, Springfield, MO 65802. Taylor Funeral Service and Crematory is handling the arrangements. Visit the internet obituary and sign the online guest registry at www. taylorfuneralservice. com.1

Harley M. “Butch” Wyatt April 2, 1943 ~ Dec. 22, 2017 GySgt. Harley M. Wyatt, USMC, Ret., was called home for his final tour. Mr. Wyatt passed away at St. Mary’s Hospital on Dec. 22, 2017, surrounded by his loving family. “Butch” was born on April 2, 1943, to Harley and Ina (Phillips) Wyatt in Delta, Colo., where he spent his childhood years. He graduated from Grand County High School in Moab, Utah, in 1961. Following graduation, he enlisted in the

USMC. Gunny Wyatt served his beloved country for 30 years as an avionic specialist for the Phantom 4 jet. He also served as a recruiter for the Pacific Northwest. He served three tours in Japan and was a Vietnam veteran. He continued serving his country following his retirement from the USMC in 1989. He worked as a civilian service contractor at the Nevada nuclear test site and later was a consultant for Bresnan Communications at Nellis A.F.B. in Las Vegas, Nev., where he met and married the love of his life, Maxine (Max). In 2007, he returned to his family home in Delta. He will be greatly missed by all who knew him. Harley is survived by his wife of 30 years, Maxine Wyatt of Delta, Colo.; his children, AnnaMarie (Andy)

Sanchez, Anita (Jerry) Sheetz and Camron (Becky) Wyatt, all of Grand Junction, Colo.; sisters, Romona (Jim) Drost of San Diego, Calif., and Rebecca Hamilton of Burlington, Kan. He is also survived by seven grandchildren; five great-grandchildren; two nephews; and two neices. He was preceded in death by his parents. A celebration of his life will be held in April 2018 with full military honors. Paid obituary

Bob Little Hawk Heid Nov. 20, 1926 ~ Dec. 28, 2017 Crawford resident Bob Little Hawk Heid died on Thursday, Dec. 28, 2017 at his ranch on Fruitland Mesa. He was 91. A Celebration of Life service will be held at the Crawford Community United Methodist Church at 11 a.m. on Thursday, Jan. 4, 2018. Interment will follow in the Garden of Memories Cemetery. Bob Heid was born in Chicago to Louis and Helene Heid (Wambach) on Nov. 20, 1926. He dreamed of being a cowboy almost from infancy and after a 1944-1947 stint in the Army Air Corps, he married fellow Chicagoan Joan Mumber and headed west. He did some rodeoing (bull riding mostly) and ended up being ranch manager at the famed C Lazy U guest ranch near Granby, Colo. Son Robin and daughter Terrie were born in 1954 and 1956, respectively, prompting their return to Illinois for a higher paying job. They built a house outside the town of Freeport and Bob followed his father into the life insurance business. He didn’t give up his cowboy dream, however. He owned, trained, and shod horses on his two-acre property, using what he called the Indian style (now known as “horse whispering”), a method that used a gentler, step-bystep process than traditional horse breaking. He began what would eventually become a several-hundred volume library of books about the Old West. At the same time, he bought two acres overlooking the C Lazy U and built a log cabin on it. Four years later, he moved his family back to Colorado, continued training and shoeing horses and became an accomplished elk hunter to supplement the family resources. In 1979, Bob fully realized his childhood dream when he and Joan bought 48 acres

on Fruitland Mesa and built a log home. He raised cattle for a while, kept a small stable of horses, rode regularly on cattle drives, and continued to hunt elk, fly fish, and train horses. At age 70, he built another log cabin on 40 acres of land above Crystal Creek. Soon after moving to Fruitland Mesa, Bob started riding in the Crawford Pioneer Days parade wearing Plains Indian regalia, and adopted the Indian name Little Hawk, after the brother of the famed Oglala Sioux war chief Crazy Horse. Thus did Bob the cowboy honor and pay tribute to the original Americans he admired and revered — to the point that he often said, “I have a white man’s blood and an Indian’s soul.” Not satisfied with his modest Indian attire, he researched the intricate beading done by Plains Indians, and soon started creating beaded bolos, hatbands, knife cases, rifle scabbards, vests, dresses and other items. Among his proudest cre-

ations were an authentic Sioux cradleboard and a beaded buckskin outfit that repeatedly won the parade’s division and Grand Champion awards. His favorite win came in 2015, when he won his division, and his 9-year-old granddaughter Siona won both the child division and Grand Champion while leading Marla Bear Bishop’s pony Stormy and wearing a beaded buckskin dress he had made for her. Bob became an Old West historian with few peers, even among those with advanced degrees in the subject. He was also an active member of the Crawford American Legion, Friends of the Crawford Library, director in the Fruitland Domestic Water Company, lifetime NRA member, and patron of various Native American charities. He also enjoyed being a grandfather, greatgrandfather, and greatgreat-grandfather. Bob Little Hawk is survived by Joan, his wife of 68 years, his two children, two granddaughters, four great-grandchildren, one great-great grandchild, and his brother Tom. Arrangements are under the care and direction of Taylor Funeral Service and Crematory. View the internet obituary and sign the online guest registry at www. taylorfuneralservice.com. Paid obituary

Delta County Independent

ACTIVITIES

Wednesday, January 3, 2018

�� Mountain lion study to be presented ��

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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 wood-

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Hunter ed class set for Feb. 12-16 A traditional hunter education class will be held at the Technical College of the Rockies Feb. 12-16. This hunter education course is spread out over four nights, from 5:30 to 9 p.m. The classroom setting includes lectures, hands-on activities and videos. All equipment will be provided by instructors except for note taking materials. Please

bring pencil and paper. To sign up for this class, go to www.cpw. state.co.us. Navigate to: About Us; Education; Hunter Education. Anyone born on or after Jan. 1, 1949, must have successfully completed an approved hunter education course sanctioned by a state or province before applying for or purchasing a hunting license. Unless an emergency occurs, it is required that a student attend all of the class time. An absence may require that the hunter education class be repeated.

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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.

Astronomical highlights of 2018 “Observing Highlights for 2018” with Art Trevena is the discussion topic at the Black Canyon Astronomical Society (BCAS) meeting, Tuesday, Jan. 9, at 7 p.m. The meeting will be held in the Partners meeting room at 511 E. 10th Street, Delta. The public is welcome and attendance is free. Year 2018 features many astronomical spectacles, including a predawn total lunar eclipse

on Jan. 31, the best viewing of Mars since 2003, and three meteor showers in skies free from bright moonlight. The BCAS stimulates public interest and knowledge of astronomy in the local area. Monthly meetings are held in Delta or Montrose. The BCAS also holds public sky viewing events. For more information, visit BlackCanyonAstronomy. com or phone 856-7716.

Class teaches women self-defense Tobacco

Ed Langrand, a fifth degree black belt in tae kwon do, will teach a women’s self-defense class Saturday, Jan. 20. The one-day session will be held at Bill Heddles Recreation Center and will run from 11 a.m. to 2 Delta County Memorip.m. The cost is $20. Call al Hospital’s Cardiac and 874-0923 to register. 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 Explore the spectacu- is open to all ages. Cost lar groomed ski trails is $30 for six weeks of on the Grand Mesa with classes. For additional guides from the Grand information or questions Mesa Nordic Council. please call 874-2420. 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 More than 4.5 million some basic cross-country people have positively skills, cross-country ski changed their financial etiquette, equipment tips future through Ramsey and tips on how to safely Solutions’ Financial Peace explore GMNC’s groomed University (FPU). Cretrails. After your ski tour ated by financial expert your guide will recom- Dave Ramsey, the ninemend other trails for you week course provides to enjoy. families and individuGuided ski tours are als with practical tools scheduled Saturday, Jan. to gain control of their 6, and Saturday, Feb. 17. finances and set themEach session runs from selves up for long-term 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. The cost financial success. FPU is $45 for Grand Mesa will be held in Delta at Nordic Council members Calvary Baptist Church, and $60 for non-mem- 1290 A Street. The classbers. es will begin Wednesday, To register and for Jan. 17, at 6 p.m. Go to more information, visit www.fpu.com/1052234 for gmnc.org. more information or to

cessation program starts in January

Grand Mesa ski tour scheduled

Registration opens for adult flag football league Registration is underway for a five-on-five flag football league. A 10-game season will be played Thursday nights beginning in late February and concluding with a tournament in May. Flags are provided; uniforms are required. The team fee is $250; each player also pays a

$20 player fee the first night. Registration deadline is Feb. 11. Registration forms may be obtained at the recreation center or from the city website, www.cityofdelta.net. For more information, contact Whitnee Lear at 874-0923 or whitnee@cityofdelta.net.

Financial Peace University offers hope to families

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lands 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.

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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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A8 Wednesday, January 3, 2018

LOCAL NEWS

Delta County Independent

Elks host New Year’s extravaganza BY KAYLEE DUNHAM Contributing Writer

The Delta Elks Lodge hosted a “Noon Year’s Eve Extravaganza” for youth on Sunday, Dec. 31. Crystal Herrera, the event coordinator, said the event was funded by The Beacon Grant, a grant for drug awareness. The party was a way for the Elks to give back to the community and spread drug awareness. The party went from Photo by Kaylee Dunham Brice Decker takes a shot at one of the games 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. and included many booths offered by the Elks.

for children of all ages to win prizes, including a “petting zoo” with stuffed animals for children to take home. Elroy the Elk joined some children to dance, and later he attempted to do the limbo. At noon, 12 hours before the new year, bubble wrap was rolled out and all the kids were invited to make some noise! At the end of the celebration Herrera and Elroy the Elk gave out goodie bags that read “Be Smart - Don’t Start. Say NO to Drugs.”

City to acquire DMEA customers BY PAT SUNDERLAND Managing Editor

Mayor pro-tem Ron Austin conducted the Dec. 19 meeting of the Delta City Council in the absence of Mayor Ed Sisson. Council member Bill Raley was also absent, so with Gerald Roberts and Christopher Ryan, there were just enough council members on hand to constitute a quorum. Acquisition of 144 Delta-Montrose Electric Association customers was approved as part of a long-range plan to increase the number of city residents on the municipal light and power system. The customers are located along Highway 92 just east of the Highway 92/50 intersection and on north

Highway 50. The total cost of $305,843, including $268,132 for facilities, falls well below the budgeted amount of $620,000. Adam Suppes, electric department superintendent, said the city’s new customers will see average savings of 11 percent over DMEA rates. Council members unanimously agreed to a rezoning request for 1726, 1728 and 1730 E. 3rd Street. Changing the designation from R-1A to MR (medical residential) supports the vision of the city’s comprehensive plan and was recommended by the Delta Planning Commission. A resolution encouraging the state Legislature

to reauthorize the Colorado Lottery Division also received unanimous approval. State law provides that lottery profits be allocated to the Great Outdoors Colorado (GOCO) Trust Fund, 50 percent; the Conservation Trust Fund, 40 percent; and Colorado Parks and Wildlife, 10 percent. The resolution calls for the General Assembly to maintain that funding formula. Since 1992, the GOCO Trust Fund has distributed over $554,848 to the city for fall fields, arbor and land purchases. Since 1983, the Conservation Trust Fund has distributed over $1,713,016 to the city for playground equipment, ADA ramps, trees, wind-

screens, tennis courts, picnic tables, sprinkler systems, volleyball pits, fencing, lights, drinking foundations and bathrooms. The city budgets $100,000 annually for parks maintenance from the Conservation Trust Fund. Wilma Erven, director of parks, recreation and golf, pointed out that the recentlycompleted Master Plan concluded that parks maintenance is already severely underfunded. The loss of the Conservation Trust Fund would have serious repercussions for the city. Resolutions are being sought from all municipalities in the state that have received lottery funds, she added.

Photo by Kaylee Dunham

Devin Kilcoyne does the limbo as other children stand in line for their turn. The ages of the participants were a very wide range, so while Kilcoyne had to put in some effort to make it under the pole other children were able to walk under it.

NORTH FORK January 3, 2018

TIMES

Section

www.deltacountyindependent.com

Paonia Space to Create feasibility study under way BY TAMIE MECK Staff Writer

Paonia’s Space to Create preliminary feasibility study is under way. The Minnesotabased Artspace team will provide feedback and advice for creating a live/work, multi-use or other creative development in Paonia. The study will kickstart the process of creating affordable space for creative artists and entrepreneurs and will help Space to Create to visualize the Paonia project and identify potential for sustained community impact. As part of this fact-finding process, the Artspace team will meet with artists, business owners, city officials, funders, and other stakeholders Jan. 16-18. A public meeting will be held to welcome community participation and to generate a buzz. There will be a series of focus group meetings on the following topics: Arts & Arts Organizations, Finance & Funders, Businesses, and Civic Leaders. The size of the focus groups will be limited and is by invitation. While the focus groups are limited and attendance is by invitation, the general public is invited to learn more by attending an event beginning at 6:30 p.m. Wednesday, Jan. 17, at the Paradise Theatre. “Everyone is invited to learn more about the Space to Create project and to offer ideas,” said Space to Create project manager Elaine Brett. “We hope to fill the Paradise and generate a lot of excitement.” Following the feasibility study, the Space to Create team will begin a market survey that will collect additional

information from the community. The community will then be invited to participate in an online survey intended to further characterize community needs, willingness to participate, and local demographics. The Space to Create team urges public participation in the Jan. 17 community meeting. Those wanting to be a part of the focus groups are asked to contact Susie Kaldis-Lowe at susies2c@townofpaonia. com. Space to Create Colorado is a collaborative effort to provide affordable workforce housing and working spaces for creative sector entrepreneurs and artists in rural, small town and mountain communities in Colorado. The initiative is led by Colorado Creative Industries (CCI) in the Governor’s Office of Economic Development and International Trade, in partnership with Artspace, the Boettcher Foundation, Colorado Department of Local Affairs (DOLA), and History Colorado. This collaborative effort will assist Colorado communities in accessing state, federal, and local government resources, and include private sector and philanthropic support. The Town of Paonia was chosen through a competitive application process to participate in the state’s program. Please visit the website for information and updates. http://northforkcreative.org/ Space-to-Create Those wishing to receive information about the project can comment on their Facebook page, Space to Create Paonia, or email them at s2c@townofpaonia.com.

Photo by Tamie Meck

Diners enjoy an African-themed Harvest Moon Dinner at Edesia Community Kitchen, a multi-use cooperative commercial kitchen space in Paonia providing space for food entrepreneurs to develop their products. The Space to Create Initiative is in the preliminary phase of a feasibility study for creating affordable space for artists and entrepreneurs. The community is invited to learn more about the initiative at a Jan. 17 public event.

First sunset of the new year

Photo by Tamie Meck

The sunset as seen from Lamborn Mesa on New Year’s Day. There are only 364 more sunsets to enjoy this year.

North Fork voters to decide on 12 trustee seats BY TAMIE MECK Staff Writer

If wanting to serve your community is on your list of accomplishments for the new year, there are many opportunities to do so. In the North Fork area, voters will elect 12 trustees and one mayor to serve on municipal boards in the April 3 general election. In Hotchkiss, terms for trustees Lindee Cantrell, Tom Wills, Mary Hockenbery and Pat Medina will expire in April. In addition, the four-year term of Mayor Wendell Koontz also ends in April. Koontz has served as mayor of Hotchkiss since 2010. In Paonia, the terms for four trustees, including mayor pro tempore David Bradford, will expire. Seats held by trustees Suzanne Watson, Chelsea Bookout and Berry Pennell are also ending. Paonia voters will also decide on a proposed onepercent sales tax increase. In Crawford, trustee seats held by Jeff Peed, Chriss Watters, Chris Johnson and mayor pro tempore Mike Tiedeman are ending. Chriss Watters announced at the December council meeting he did not intend to seek reelection. Crawford voters may also be asked to consider a ballot question regarding marijuana sales. In December the town council was informed of an effort to bring this issue to the ballot by citizen petition. Crawford’s regular January meeting is scheduled for tonight (Jan. 3) at 7 p.m. Elections can’t be held with-

out qualified candidates. Candidates must have lived within their respective town limits for at least 12 months preceding the election date, and be registered to vote. Election petitions will be available at town halls beginning Jan. 3, and must be completed and returned by Jan. 22. All petition signers must be registered to vote within the respective municipality. Paonia town clerk Corinne Ferguson recommends that candidates return petitions earlier than the Jan. 22 deadline, and obtain more than the required number of signatures. Ferguson explains that signatures can’t be verified or their information doesn’t match the public record, there may not be enough time to remedy objections before the deadline to submit ballot content to Delta County. For those who want to serve at another capacity, Delta County recently posted its list of openings on all area boards and commissions. Appointments are made by the Board of County Commissioners each January 31. In the North Fork area, the county is seeking the following: Delta County Housing Authority, a two-year term representing the Town of Paonia; Youth Shooting Sports Advisory Committee, a three-year term representing the North Fork area; Crawford Area Planning Committee, a three-year term to review planning proposals

and provide recommendations to the Delta County Planning Commission; Upper North Fork Area Planning Committee, a twoyear term to review planning proposals in the area and make recommendations to the Delta County Planning Commission; Delta County Airport Advisory Board, three, three-year terms for users of the Blake Field Airport, North Fork Airport, and one at-large capacity position; The Hotchkiss, Crawford and Paonia cemetery boards all have one opening for a representative to serve a six-year term; Community Services Block Grant Advisory Committee, two-year terms for one privatesector, one at-large private sector, and one at-large/lowincome individual representative to review the county’s annual Community Services Block Grant application, midyear and year-end reports; and One four-year position on the Western Regional Emergency Medical & Trauma Advisory Council. Letters of interest should be submitted to the Board of County Commissioners on or before Jan. 12. Mail letters to 501 Palmer Street, Suite 227, Delta, 81416, Attention: Robbie LeValley; or email to rlevalley@deltacounty.com. Please specify which board or commission you are interested in and your qualifications, if required. Visit Deltacounty. com for more information.

Town park was purchased from Clark family BY TAMIE MECK Staff Writer

After last week’s story on the history of the miner’s statue in Paonia Town Park, Paonia resident and town trustee David Bradford said his research revealed more information about how the town acquired the land for the park, and how the community rallied to purchase the land from the family of William Clark. Bradford said in doing his initial research, he learned that the park “was rumored to have been gifted to the town” by the Clarks. Turns out, a citizen-led initiative led to the acquisition of the 10-acre park. “This goes to show how difficult this research is,” said Bradford, who is retired from a 34-year career with the U.S. Forest Service and currently serves as mayor pro tempore on the Paonia Board of Trustees. Bradford is wellknown for researching virtually every topic that comes before the town board. He was lead author with the book, “When the Grass Stood Stirrup-high: Facts, Photographs and Myths of West-Central Colorado.” Robbie Baird LeValley and Floyd Reed contributed to the book, which was published in 2004.

Photo by Tamie Meck

The family of Melvina Hall Clark, memorialized on the drinking fountain at Paonia Town Park, sold the park land to the Town of Paonia in 1922, according to research done by town trustee David Bradford. “I have heard a story that William Clark donated the land that became the Paonia Town Park to the Town of Paonia,” Bradford writes in his updated history of the park. “However, in my search in the Delta County Courthouse at the County Asses-

sor’s office and the County Clerk and Recorder’s office, I found that the property that became the Paonia Town Park was actually sold to the Town of Paonia.” In researching the “Resume of Items in Paonia Newspapers, Volume II (1921-1935),

by Wallace Eubanks of the North Fork Historical Society, he found the following: “The Delta County Courthouse shows a Bond for Deed was recorded on Jan. 10, 1922. This Bond for Deed, which is a contractual agreement to sell real property in which the purchase price is to be paid by the buyer to the seller in installments, and in which the seller agrees to deliver title to the buyer after payment of a stipulated sum, stipulated that Violet M. and Harold C. Clark agreed to sell the parcel to the Town of Paonia for $10,000 over a period of time. However, the specific terms called for $7,233.35 to be paid in the following manner — $4,500 in cash, $2,733.35 on or before 1/4/1925.” Community fundraisers were held, and The Paonian newspaper reported on Oct. 6, 1921, that coal magnate John “J.C.” Osgood, “owner of the estate at Redstone,” donated $100 to the cause. Town board minutes of March 4, 1924, reflect a 40 vote adopting a resolution by Trustee M.H. Crissman “to place a question in the upcoming general town election, to be held April 1, 1924, whether the voters were ‘For or Against, the acquirement of parks, establishment of

boulevards, park ways and roads.’ An affirmative vote would allow the Town to pay $3200.00 for the unpaid debt on the Bond for Deed for the 10.31 acres for the Paonia Town Park and accept title for the property.” Bradford found no record of the election results. “However, the minutes of the April 15, 1924 Paonia Town Board meeting records the following: ‘A motion was made by Cady and seconded by Furnoy, that the Park Committee be notified that the Town of Paonia is ready to accept the park, when the deed and abstract is approved. On roll call, Cady, Bradshaw, Sweet, Furnoy and Crissman voted ‘aye.’” Bradford also found at the Delta County Courthouse the warranty deed transferring the Town Park property from Violet M. Clark, Olive Clark Merritt and Harold W. Clark to the town for $7,000. In applying the $7,233.35 the Clarks asked for the park in 1924 to 2017 dollars, the town paid more than $100,205 for the land. “It was a “major investment by the town,” said Bradford. “The acquisition of the land that is now the Paonia Town Park is a great example of citizens initiating a process to provide a pubPAONIA PARK TO B2

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NORTH FORK TIMES

Delta County Independent

Paonia park FROM PAGE B1 lic benefit and working with the municipal government to accomplish that.” Bradford also combed Ancestry.com, the 1920 U.S. Census records, and other sources to learn more about Melvina Hall Clark, who is memorialized on the pedestal fountain located next to the miner’s statue. Melvina Hall Clark was one of the first settlers who moved to the North Fork Valley when it was opened for settlement

in September 1882. She was born Dec. 10, 1833 in Mason County, West Virginia. She married Luther T. Clark on May 1, 1856 in Onarga, Ill., and bore two children, William A. Clark and Albert F. Clark. She apparently traveled to Delta County with her husband Luther and sons, William and Albert. Her husband Luther passed away in 1884. According to the 1920 U.S. Census Melvina resided at 336 Poplar Avenue, until her death in 1924. Interestingly, there is no 336 Pop-

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lar Avenue, today, writes Bradford. Melvina Clark is buried at the Cedar Hill Cemetery, south of Paonia, along with her husband and sons. Oldest son William Allen was an early public figure in Paonia, wrote Bradford. He “was born on September 15, 1858 in Ash Grove, Iroquois County, Illinois... William was one of the first settlers at Paonia, arriving there shortly after the area was opened for settlement; he owned 160 acres of farming land, on a part of which the town of Paonia is located; he engaged in farming and stock raising. He sub-divided these lands and they became part of the Town — the Clarke sub-division and Clark’s 2nd sub-division. He was married to Violet M. Fawcett in 1885. They had two children — Harold W. (Clarkie) Clark born July 4, 1885 and Olive M. Clark born April 2, 1887. William Allen Clark passed away in Paonia on Aug. 17, 1908.” In 1890, Melvina Clark received a patent on 160.47 acres from the government and William was granted a patent on 160.36 acres. Bradford said he hopes his research will help future generations to understand the history surrounding the park and the people went to great lengths to turn a hayfield into one of the town’s greatest assets. Pointing to the Howard Berkman Stage at the northwest corner of the park, he said he doesn’t want future

Photo by Thomas M. McKee, courtesy Denver Public Library

View of the Town of Paonia in 1905. Note the large ﬁeld in the upper right corner. This is the Clark hayﬁeld that would become the Paonia Town Park. town boards considering changes to the stage to ask, “Who was Howard Berkman?” There are still some unsolved pieces of the puzzle. Courthouse Bond for Deed records indicate that the Clarks sold the property to the town on Jan. 4, 1922, for $10,000, which is contrary to records indicating that they accepted $7,233.37.

Bradford found no indication that the Clark family donated the balance. “There are a number of additional confusing issues concerning the Clarks,” writes Bradford, including the spelling of the Clark name, which is sometimes spelled with an “e” at the end, and sometimes without. One other unsolved mystery involves the foun-

tain dedicated to Melvina Clark. On the back are the words, “Erected 1926 by Emma C. McLoud.” Bradford found no record of the dedication. “The pedestal memorial seems to reflect Emma C. McLoud’s wish to recognize Mrs. Clark,” writes Bradford. “Unfortunately, I was unable to find any information on Emma C. McLoud.”

CattleWomen sponsor HK-8 beef cookoff The Black Mesa CattleWomen worked with the Hotchkiss K-8 life skills classroom instructors by providing information about beef facts including nutrition, recipes, and ranching practices. They then sponsored a beef cookoff. For the competition

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students were to choose a recipe using one pound of locally raised hamburger. The groups were asked to create a menu using a beef recipe, then design a place setting and poster for the beef cookoff. After taking the written exam about beef facts, the groups prepared the entree and CattleWomen provided judges to score their entree, place setting and proper cooking practices. Those scores were averaged with the writ-

ten exam. The December group was very close in points. The first place score was 267 points, second place 266, and third place 262. CattleWomen provided prizes. The winners were: Lilly Jardon, Annika Knehs, David Dennison, and Dakota Sheldon, first; Esthefany Espinoza, Nehemiah Barona, and Ian Aguilera, second; Hosanna Marquez, Marcus Broadbent and Juan Ramirez, third.

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First place team of Lilly Jardon, Annika Knebs, David Dennison and Dakota Sheldon.

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How do Social Security, Medicare and long-term care fit into my plan for retirement?

Second place team of Esthefany Espinoza, Nehemiah Barona and Ian Aguilera

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Social Security, Medicare and LongTerm Care Workshop

Third place team of Hosanna Marquez, Marcus Broadbent and Juan Ramirez.

NORTH FORK TIMES

Delta County Independent

Wednesday, January 3, 2018

PHS students nominated to multiple military academies

Knit one, purl two

Photo submitted

Members of the Hotchkiss Library Knitting Group met on Thursday, Dec. 14, in the basement of the Hotchkiss Library to share ideas, grab a hot cup of coffee, and, of course, knit! The group meets the second Thursday of every month, October through April, at 10:30 a.m.

Crawford State Park offers ice fishing clinic BY TAMIE MECK Staff Writer

Freezing temperatures arrived a little late this year, but the ice is forming over Crawford Reservoir, marking the beginning of ice-fishing season. While people are already venturing out onto the ice, Colorado Parks and Wildlife officials are warning the public to use caution. “Test the ice,” said Crawford State Park manager Ed Keleher. Last Friday a group of anglers was fishing near the dam. Anglers are reporting catches of rainbow trout and crappie, according to park staff. The reservoir also offers yellow perch, black channel catfish, pike and large-mouth bass. For those wanting to try ice fishing for the first time, a limited number of kits are available for checkout at the park office. Freezing temperatures also mean that Crawford State Park’s annual ice fishing clinic is on. The event is scheduled for Saturday, Jan. 27. Participants can learn about the best techniques and different types of gear available for a successful day of ice fishing. Following a roughly 1.5-hour clinic the group will move out onto the ice for handson experience. Visitors are invited to bring cross country skis and ice skates. An area will be cleared for ice skaters to enjoy. Visitors can also gather around a campfire and enjoy

Monologue auditions are Jan. 6 Paonia Players will hold monologue competition auditions starting at noon Saturday, Jan. 6, at the Paradise Theatre. Performances will be given March 16 and 17, at the Paradise. A total of 16 actors are needed to make this event happen. To sign up for an audition time or to arrange to send a video audition, please contact paoniaplayers@gmail. com or call Merrily at 970-361-1540.

Elsewhere welcomes January residents Elsewhere Studios will hold a meet and greet from 6-8 p.m. Friday to introduce residents for January, including ceramicist Stephanie Kranstover from Virginia, visual artist/printmaker Janika Herlevi from Finland, ceramics artist Yifan Renxu, and multi-media illustrator Elaine Shoaf. Elsewhere, which offers time and space for artists to transcend to new levels in their work, ideas and lives, is located at 107 Third Street, Paonia. Visit www.elsewherestudios. org for more information.

Last week, Congressman Scott Tipton (CO-03) announced the names of 25 students from Colorado’s Third Congressional District who received a Service Academy nomination. The individuals were selected based on meeting or exceeding the rigorous requirements of the respective academy and Congressman Tipton’s office. Cyrus Malek-Madani was nominated to the U.S. Air Force Academy and the Naval Academy. Caden Meilner received nominations to West Point and the Naval Academy. Caden Meilner, the son of Timothy and Shauna Meilner of Paonia, attended the U.S. Naval Academy Summer Seminar program held June 3-8 at Annapolis, Md., and the West Point Summer Leaders Experience (SLE) held June 10-16 at the United States Military Academy.

Caden Meilner

Cyrus Malek-Madani

Cyrus is the son of Joseph and Leslie MalekMadani. He attended the U.S. Air Force Academy Summer Seminar at Colorado Springs June 18-23. “One of the greatest honors of my job is nominating deserving, wellrounded individuals for our nation’s prestigious military academies,” said Tipton. “The 25 students nominated are some of the best and brightest that Colorado has to offer, and I am sure that they will have successful

careers as officers should they be accepted into the academies. We are so fortunate to have such accomplished and hardworking individuals in our midst and I could not be more proud of them for answering the call to serve our nation.” Students in the 3rd District who are considering applying to a U.S. Service Academy can find more information on the nomination process at: https://tipton.house.gov/ serving-you/

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Photo by Tamie Meck

A half dozen ice ﬁshermen try their luck at Crawford Reservoir Dam last Friday. Anglers are reporting catches of mostly rainbow trout and crappie. hot cocoa, hot dogs and s’mores. Interested participants should plan to meet at the Visitor Center, 40468 Hwy. 92, at 9 a.m. on Jan. 27. For details, visit cpw. state.co.us or call 9215721. While the clinic is free, anyone planning to fish will need a current fishing license and a valid State Parks pass. Due to a purchasing system upgrade, a system blackout that began Jan. 1 will

affect on-line purchase of licenses and parks passes. The new system is expected to go live within a week. Once up and running, the system will provide one-stop shopping for hunting and fishing licenses and required stamps, annual parks passes, camping reservations and merchandise. Passes and licenses are available at the Crawford State Park office daily between 8 a.m. and 4 p.m.

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LOCAL NEWS

Delta County Independent

2018, I’m ready to quit! Whether you smoke, chew or vape tobacco, one of the keys to a successful quit is preparation. The following steps will help you to create your own customized quit plan: Pick a quit date. When it comes to choosing a quit date, sooner is better than later. Choosing a date within about two weeks gives you enough time to prepare. Avoid choosing a day where you know you will be busy, stressed, or tempted to use tobacco (e.g., a night out with friends or days where you may use tobacco at work). Let loved ones know you are quitting. Quitting tobacco is easier with support from important people in your life. Let them know ahead of your quit date that you are planning to quit and explain how they can help. Remove reminders. Getting rid of tobacco reminders can keep you on track during your quit. These reminders include your tobacco and paraphernalia to use tobacco (cigarettes, matches, ashtrays, lighters, spit jar, loose leaf chewing tobacco, plugs or twists, vaporizer, e-juice, etc.). It may also help to make things clean and fresh at work‚ in your car‚ and at home. Even the smell of cigarettes can cause a cigarette craving. Identify your reasons to quit. Make a list of all the reasons for quitting tobacco and how your life will be better without tobacco. Keep it in a place where you can see it every day. Any time you feel an urge in your quit, review your list. This will keep you motivated to stay tobacco-free. Identify your tobacco triggers. When you use tobacco, it becomes

tied to many parts of your life. Certain activities, feelings, and people are linked to your tobacco use and they may “trigger” or turn on your urge to use tobacco. Try to anticipate these triggers and develop ways to deal with them in advance. Develop coping strategies. Nicotine is the chemical that makes you addicted to tobacco. When you quit, your body has to adjust to no longer having nicotine in its system. This is called withdrawal. Withdrawal is no picnic, but you can get through it. Remember that withdrawal symptoms‚ including cravings‚ will fade with every day that you stay tobacco-free. Developing strategies to cope with withdrawal ahead of your quit can help ensure you stay tobacco-free for good! Make a list of things you can do to get through the craving. What have you done before when you found yourself in a tobacco-free place? Tap into that same approach when your next craving comes along. Determine if nicotine replacement therapy (NRT) or other medications are right for you. Talk to your health care provider about medicines that may help you quit tobacco. NRT (patches, gum and lozenges) and other medications can help you manage the symptoms of withdrawal. For free NRT and/or medication, enroll in Colorado QuitLine (call 1-800-QUIT-NOW or visit www.coquitline.org) prior to your quit date so you can have these mailed to you and on hand for your quit. You may also ask your employer about tobacco cessation benefits available to employees. While medications may help, they can’t do all the

work for you so it is important to develop other quit tobacco strategies to use with medications. Studies show that smokers who use medicine to help control cravings, along with coaching/counselling, are much more likely to succeed than those who go it alone. Have places you can turn to for immediate help. Quitting tobacco is hardest during the first few weeks. You will deal with uncomfortable feelings, temptations, withdrawal symptoms, and cravings. Whether it is a quitline, support group, or good friend, make sure you have quit tobacco support options available at all times. Here are just a few FREE options you may want to consider: • Colorado QuitLine – Call 1-800-QUIT-NOW or visit www.coquitline. org for free quit tobacco telephone coaching and free medication. • This is Quitting – Install the Android or Apple App for free expert quit smoking counseling 24/7 and new strategies/ tips to stay smoke-free with training challenges on your quit. • Nicotine Anonymous – Call 1-877-TRY-NICA or visit www.nicotine-anony mous.org for free group support with phone or internet meetings offered several times a day for each day of the week. • Become an Ex – Register at www.becomeanex. org for free interactive guides/tools for a quit smoking plan that learns and grows with your experience becoming an ex-smoker. • SmokefreeTXT – Visit www.smokefree. gov/smokefreetxt to signup for a free mobile text messaging service to help with your quit, with up to 3-5 text messages per day.

• Kill the Can – Visit www.killthecan.org for specific online support quitting chew or dip, including forums and live quit chat rooms Check for resources in the community. The Delta County Memorial Hospital is offering a six-week quit tobacco program, by a certified tobacco cessation instructor, on Monday evenings at 6 p.m. starting Jan. 22. for a cost of $30. To register call 970-874-2420. The Delta County Health Department offers the Baby & Me Tobacco-free program which provides counseling support, education, and resources to pregnant women and an additional tobacco user in the household, with a monthly diaper voucher incentive for those that quit and stay quit. To

join call 970-874-2165. The Delta County Health Department can also provide general information on quit tobacco resources. Set up rewards for quit milestones. Quitting tobacco happens one minute, one hour, one day at a time. Celebrate individual tobacco-free milestones, including being quit 24 hours, one week, one month, etc. Plan out your milestones ahead of

time and set up a tobacco-free reward for each one. Quitting smoking is hard, be proud of your accomplishments. One bad day doesn’t mean you can’t keep trying. Start again that day, or the next. Don’t give up; keep trying different things until you find what works for you. It’s your plan, your quit, your year. You can do this, one day at a time!

Building Bridges award dinner set for Jan. 15 The Kids’ Pasta Project will present its annual KPP Building Bridges Service Award at a special five-course dinner at 5 p.m. Monday, Jan. 15, at ShadeScapes Americas in Hotchkiss. Inspired by

Martin Luther King’s National Day of Service, KPP honors local community organizations through the award. For details, or to make reservations, visit kidspa staproject.org.

Welcoming the new year

Photo by Tamie Meck

Paonia ceramicist Tara Miller adds ﬂair to her recitation of Rumi poetry between musical acts at the 18th annual Black Eyed Pea Jubilee, held New Year’s Day at the Blue Sage Center for the Arts in Paonia. Crowds enjoyed 15 musical acts throughout the day and shared in a potluck feast, including dishes made with black-eyed peas, which in the Southern states are said to bring prosperity in the new year.

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SURFACE CREEK January 3, 2018

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A happy new year for Otto BY DON BENJAMIN Staff Writer

In July 2017, someone spotted an energetic dog running loose on Grand Mesa near Scotland Trail. Good Samaritans gave the friendly animal a ride to town and Otto became a resident at the Surface Creek Animal Shelter in Cedaredge waiting for his owners to turn up or for a new family to adopt him. Jacki Dapkus is board secretary for the Friends of Cedaredge Animal Control (FCAC), the agency that operates the nonprofit shelter, and she knows Otto well. She reported that the dog had an implanted chip which was registered in Florida, but efforts to contact the owners proved unsuccessful. Last year things were looking up for Otto when some local folks adopted him. Unfortunately they had to bring him back. The people loved the dog but he was incompatible with the

family’s other pets so Otto was returned to the shelter and again, he waited. Animals that end up at the small all-volunteer shelter are usually adopted quickly. Half of stray dogs are claimed by owners within 48 hours. In 2016 the average stray stayed two weeks with the longest stay lasting a month. For Otto, the wait stretched to five months. Otto is two years old. He’s a big dog, a black-mouthed cur weighing in at 70 pounds. Typically curs are working dogs. The shelter’s Facebook page described Otto’s personality: “His temperament is pretty consistent with a cur ... fearless, trainable, protective, loyal, active, kind. He loves his walks, can scale a chain link fence, will protect his person, is gentle and loveable. Otto is fit as a fiddle, energetic and well-mannered. He is a dominant dog with a reserved

OC voters to elect three town trustees Voters in Orchard City will elect three trustees in the municipal election to be held Tuesday, April 3. The election will be conducted by mail. The three seats are currently held by Gary Tollefson, who was appointed to the board of trustees in May 2016 to fill the balance of the term vacated by Ken Volgamore upon his election to mayor; Bob Eckels, who serves as mayor pro tem; and Tom Huerkamp, who was elected to a two-year term in April 2016. All seats to be filled in

April are four-year terms. Nomination petitions are currently available from the town clerk. They must be returned by 4:30 p.m. Monday, Jan. 22. Candidates must be at least 18 years of age on Election Day, must be a registered elector and must have resided within town limits for 12 consecutive months immediately preceding the date of the election. For more information, contact town administrator Melissa Oelke at 835-3337.

Petitions available for Cedaredge election Four of the six seats on the Cedaredge Board of Trustees will be filled in the April election. The terms of Al Smith, Patti Michael and Ray Hanson are ending; the fourth is currently vacant. Any U.S. citizen who is registered to vote, 18 years of age on or before the date of the election, and has lived in the Town of Cedaredge for at least 12 months prior to the date of

the election is qualified to run for office. If you are interested in running for the office of town trustee you will need to pick up a nomination petition packet from the town clerk at 235 W. Main Street. The deadline for circulating a petition for signatures is 4 p.m. Jan. 22. Included with the packet will be a general information sheet for candidates to review.

personality. Otto would do great as the only animal in an active household. He would love exercise, a ranch lifestyle and people to love on. Otto has good house manners too!” And the dog was patient. Visitors to the shelter were liable to find Otto standing on top of his dog house watching diligently for the volunteers who took him for long walks twice daily. Or maybe he was keeping an eye out for that special someone because his wait ended this week when he finally got adopted again. And this time it looks like Otto hit the jackpot. The shelter reports that, as of Jan. 1, the dog that no one seemed to want has a great home and a brand new job, something he’ll be good at. It’s a supervisory position keeping an eye on an eight-acre orchard. The Surface Creek Animal Shelter houses dogs and cats and anyone interested in adopting a pet can visit daily from 8 to 11 a.m. and 3 to 5 p.m. The shelter is located at 265 SE High Country Avenue in Cedaredge and can be reached at 856-2346. The shelter website (surfacecreekanimalshelter.org) also highlights available pets.

Photo by Karen Stout

Shelter volunteer Darcy Fabian and Otto. The two-year-old dog got to go for long walks twice daily while awaiting adoption but what he really wanted was a home of his own. Otto was found on Grand Mesa in July 2017. Then he spent ﬁve months at the Surface Creek Animal Shelter in Cedaredge waiting for a home.

Friends of the Library anticipate ‘historic’ meeting BY DON BENJAMIN Staff Writer

According to Sandy Maddox, secretary of Friends of Cedaredge Public Library, the next meeting of the Friends will be a historic one. For the first time since 2001, members will be discussing the organization’s bylaws and voting on several changes. Current members and those wishing to join are encouraged to attend this important meeting to be held Thursday, Jan. 11, at 2 p.m. in the conference room of the Cedaredge Library. Membership dues and the basic structure of the group will remain the same. Proposed changes will reduce the number of monthly meetings, redefine officer terms of office, clarify the process for reviewing the organization’s finances, and establish new committees.

Under the old bylaws, meetings were held every month. The proposed change will reduce the meetings to the second Thursday in January, March, May, September and November. Special programs will be presented at each meeting. The November meeting will continue to serve as the Friends’ annual meeting. It is proposed that additional meetings be scheduled as needed. Under the proposed changes, officers will serve staggered two-year terms to allow for an overlap of new and experienced officers. And the proposed changes include a new financial review provision requiring the appointment of a qualified individual to conduct a financial review each year with a report to be presented at the January meeting. The old bylaws listed only two standing committees,

membership and program, but did not assign chairs for either committee. The proposed changes make the treasurer responsible for the membership committee and the vice president is assigned to chair the program committee. New committees are proposed to manage book sales, newsletter and nominations. Membership dues remain unchanged with categories including annual and lifetime rates for individuals and families. Businesses may also join the Friends. To encourage family memberships, the proposed bylaw changes allow each family to have two votes in organization elections. The Friends promote the library, provide funds to meet special library needs and encourage gifts, endowments and memorials. Friends’ members also volunteer and assist with library operations.

Former Cedaredge resident says only he should be credited with mosasaur find STAFF REPORT

Gary Thompson is determined to set the record straight. He says he, and only he, is “the sole, original, authentic discovery person” of the mosasaur skeleton that was unearthed in Cedaredge in 1975. A DCI article by Muriel Marshall reporting the discovery correctly credited Thompson with the find. The article also correctly credited science teacher Dick Jones with reporting the find to Dr. Jim Jensen of Brigham Young University. The full mosasaur skeleton was installed at the BYU Museum of Paleontology earlier this year, and was the subject of a DCI Back Page in August. A cast of the skull has been showcased at the Welcome Center in Cedaredge for years. Thompson says he moved

to New Mexico with his mother shortly after the find, and only later learned that the original article also contained the names of two boys who claimed they had directed Thompson to the discovery site on Cedar Mesa. “Unfortunately, this article has been used as a reference for additional articles and has also been expanded upon creating additional pieces of misinformation to be perpetuated over the years,” Thompson said. After tracking articles online, he and his wife decided to travel to Cedaredge and on to Utah in 2003. Their trip included a visit with DCI reporter Verna Barr, who said subsequent newspaper articles on the find were based on the original article by Muriel Marshall. After visiting with Thompson, Barr wrote another article that omitted any men-

Newspaper articles from 1975 tell the story of the Cedar Mesa ﬁnd. They’re part of the display at the Welcome Center at Pioneer Town.

tion of the other two boys. Despite attempts by DCI reporter Verna Barr to rectify past errors, Thompson has been disappointed to see more recent articles that completely omit his name. Thompson believed the record would finally reflect that he alone discovered the fossil without direction or assistance by any others. Then in May 2017, the article “Mosasaur: Died in cretaceous period, found in 1975, displayed in 2017,” by Jessica Parcell was posted on the BYU website. The article talked about the cast of the full skeleton that had been completed and was now the subject of a new exhibit at the museum. To his dismay, Thompson found that the BYU article not only omitted his name, but included a completely new name that had never before been associated with the find. “As you can imagine this has prompted me to be very proactive in correcting and preventing any future disintegration or perversion of the truth regarding my discovery of this fossil,” he said in a letter to the DCI intended to clarify the situation. “To this end, I have been very busy thinking about and noting the factual details I remember about my discovery and writing my true story. I have also been researching all the articles or postings I could find on the subject and notating any errors in them about the find. I have been in communication with the BYU museum curator as we work

to correct the errors made in their last article. I was also able to contact my old science teacher Dr. Jones who sent an email to Rod Scheetz at BYU Paleontology Museum verifying that I was indeed the teenager from his class that discovered the fossil and reported it to him.” Thompson provided the DCI with a copy of “My True Story,” along with past articles and publications with corrections noted, and Dr. Jones’ verification letter — “all for the sole purpose of preserving the truth, relating to this

historically and scientifically relevant Mosasaur Prognathodon Stadtmani fossil specimen.” “I do not attempt to take away others’ participation or contribution to the site activity after my discovery, but I do want to make it very clear that it was in fact myself, by myself, that discovered and unearthed a portion of the fossil and made the original report to my teacher Dr. Jones, for him to contact the right people to care for the find properly,” Thompson concludes.

Gary Thompson said he was very excited to see the cast of the mosasaur’s skull that’s displayed at the Welcome Center in Cedaredge. The cast was presented to Pioneer Town in August 2003. “My ﬁrst impression was, ‘Wow, what a monster!’” Thompson said. “I also thought what a cool looking eye!”

B6 Wednesday, January 3, 2018

SURFACE CREEK NEWS

All Saints closes holiday season with huge bonfire 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 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. Dress warmly and bring a flashlight to read the song sheet. 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.

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Delta County Independent

What’s bugging you? Local gardening questions and answers BY JIM LESER Cedaredge Tree Board

Planting the right tree in the right place is extremely important. Unfortunately, many people do not give this enough thought and have regrets years after planting. As the real estate agents often say, “Location. Location. Location.” People are beginning to understand that putting trees under power lines can be a bad idea. That does not mean that trees cannot be planted under power lines but you need to think small specimen trees, not large shade trees. We also need to think of scale. Planting a Colorado blue spruce four feet from your house may initially look good but it will soon tower over a sin-

gle story house, looking out of place and will be deformed as it attempts to spread to its full width of 20 or more feet. There are sometimes circumstances when a larger tree is a good idea for aesthetic reasons. Let’s face it, sometimes a 2” caliper tree just looks out of place in certain situations. For instance, when replacing large specimen trees or planting in front of large structures. We all know the immediate visual benefits of installing larger trees. But, when planting larger trees it is a much different process from planting a standard 1 1⁄2 to 2” tree. Survivability and performance all hinge on selection, installation, care and maintenance; everything is different when installing large trees. But if

done properly the large tree can thrive and make an immediate visual impact. Most important is to realize that these giants require heavy equipment to move and place them in their holes. And hand digging a hole for a large tree can be a daunting job. Make sure you do not plant your tree too deep or loosen the soil under the root ball as it will cause it to settle lower in its hole. Larger trees require a greater volume of water, but less frequently. You must remember that you are watering to a depth of 36-48” vs. 24” and just because the tree shows stress does not always indicate a need for more water. More large trees die from too much water than too little. Use a soil probe to check soil moisture and only water when needed. Supplemental watering may be necessary for at least two

growing seasons. It is important to know that the nursery tree has been cared for each year and is not just a leftover cull. Finally, the staking and guying must be strong enough to support the heavier and broader tree, especially if it is an evergreen. If you are willing to put in the extra time and effort you can capitalize on the immediate impact of a large tree. But you cannot just plant it, water it and walk away. Also realize that larger trees take longer to establish a sufficient root system to begin putting on new growth. Often, a smaller tree will catch up to a larger planted tree a few years down the road. Jim Leser retired to Cedaredge in 2007 after a career with Texas A&M University Extension in entomology. He is a member of the Cedaredge Tree Board and a Colorado Master Gardener.

Business of the Year nominations due Jan. 8 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 Photo submitted will be announced at the chamber’s annual ban- Give careful thought to the proper location for your new tree. quet on Jan. 19.

Annual meeting set for Jan. 18 The Surface Creek Community Services will conduct its annual board meeting Thursday, Jan. 18, at 3:30 p.m. in the Wick Hall at the First Baptist Church, 370 W. Main Street, Cedaredge. All interested community members are welcome to attend the meeting.

Holiday fundraiser

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Photo by Don Benjamin

Six gymnasts got together in Cedaredge for a holiday bake sale to raise funds for performance outﬁts and competition expenses. Pictured left to right are Aubree Lindsay, 11; Lella Young, 9; Madelyn Lindsay, 9; Luke Green, 8; Olivia Lindsay, 13; and Sarah Green, 11. The children participate in Tunget Gymnastics, located in Austin. All six children are homeschooled.

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SPORTS

Delta County Independent

SPORTS January 3, 2018

Wednesday, January 3, 2018

www.deltacountyindependent.com

Delta County matmen listed in state rankings BY TAMIE MECK DCI Sports Writer

After strong team and individual finishes at the Warrior Classic, Cedaredge, Paonia and Hotchkiss are in the top three spots, respectively, in the Class 2A On the Mat team rankings heading into the new year. That could make for an interesting run for the Region 1 title on Feb. 910. Of Cedaredge’s 10 ranked wrestlers, Trey Geyer (120), Sean Dale (126), and Taj Van der Linde (220) are ranked second. Three ranked Bruins wrestlers, Sam Campbell (106), Geyer

and Derek Sanchez (285) are freshman. Ten Paonia wrestlers are ranked 10th or higher, with Sackett Chesnik holding on to the No. 1 spot at 138 after taking silver at the Warrior. Grey Neal (152) is ranked second and Jaden Miller (195) and Cyrus MalekMadani (20) are ranked third. Nine Hotchkiss wrestlers made the list. Landen Mayberry (106) and Sergio Campos (120) remain first in their weight divisions, and at 195 pounds, Devin Curtis moved up from fifth to second. Hotchkiss will dual at

Cedaredge at 6 p.m. FriRanked Delta County Wrestlers - Class 2A day. All three 2A teams CEDAREDGE 1ST-2A PAONIA 2ND-2A HOTCHKISS 3RD-2A wrestle Saturday at the Eagle Valley tournament. 106 13. Sam Campbell (FR) 7. Regan Todd (FR) 1. Landen Mayberry Delta also wrestles in 113 4. Ryan Imhoff 14. Robert Cochran (FR) Eagle Valley Saturday. 1. Sergio Campos 120 2. Trey Geyer (FR) Delta comes in at 14th 126 2. Sean Dale 6. Zeb Etter 5. Presley Pene in Class 3A On the Mat 132 4. Alex McCracken 9. Traycer Hall (FR) rankings heading into 138 1. Sackett Chesnik the new year. 5. Clay Campbell 145 9. David Schippman In Region 1 the Pan- 152 4. Colton Hoerr 2. Grey Neal 5. Jace Peebles thers are ranked fifth 160 3. Jared Hulteen 10. Jesse Burns behind Valley, Alamosa, 170 6. Anthony Felice Buena Vista and Pagosa 182 9. Colton Peebles Springs. 3. Jaden Miller 2. Devin Curtis 195 The Panthers’ seven 220 2. Taj Van der Linde 3. Cyrus Malek-Madani 4. Kevin Chavez ranked wrestlers are 285 5. Derek Sanchez (FR) 4. Levi Peterson ranked in the top four in Ranked Delta County Wrestlers - Class 3A the region. DELTA - 14TH 3A/5TH REGIONAL The adjacent chart shows each Delta County 120 16. Ben Koch (FRI) 152 6. Brandon Harper 285 1. Logan Church team and its wrestlers’ 138 8. Cody Suave 160 9. Drake Horn current rankings. 145 16. Brendon Starr 170 15. Alden Barrios

Local gridders named to All-State The following studentathletes were recently named to the Colorado High School Activities Association All-State football teams for 2017. From Class 2A, Delta senior Logan Church was selected to the First Team. Honorable mention players from Delta included seniors Josh Reeder (offensive/defensive lineman) and Brendon Starr (running back/ linebacker). Delta County 1A AllState football players from Cedaredge included senior Craig Claunch who was an honorable mention selection. From Hotchkiss, seniors Nolan Egging (guard/tackle) and Colton Peeble (running back/ middle linebacker/punt-

er) were named to the Second Team. Paonia High School topped this year’s selections with four players named to the All-State elite team. Senior Jaden Miller (running back/ linebacker) was named to the First Team with seniors Clay Campbell and Cyrus Malek-Madani (offensive/defensive linemen) landing on the Second Team. Sophomore Levi Peterson was an honorable mention selection as an offensive and defensive lineman.

Logan Church - First Team Class 2A

Jaden Miller - First Team Class 1A

Photos by Tamie Meck and Wayne Crick Craig Claunch HM 1A

Brendon Starr HM 2A

Josh Reeder - HM 2A

BASKETBALL

Paonia Head Coach: Scott Rienks 42 at Paonia Shootout vs Nor 11/30/17 11 60 vs Ridgway @ Paonia TNY 12/2/17 9 28 @ Olathe 12/5/17 35 26 vs Coal Ridge 12/8/17 25 36 vs Delta @ FCNB 12/15/17 48 35 vs Hotchkiss @ FCNB 12/16/17 32 Record: 4-2 Up Next: 1/5/18 @ Plateau Valley 5:30 p.m.; 1/6/18 vs Caprock Academy 2:30 p.m.

——— PREVIOUS SCORES ——— BOYS Delta 70, Olathe 45 Cedaredge 69, Hotchkiss 63 Paonia 60, Hotchkiss 43 Delta 62, Paonia 30 Delta 71, Cedaredge 54 GIRLS Cedaredge 50, Hotchkiss 32 Paonia 35, Hotchkiss 32 Delta 53, Olathe 45 Delta 48, Paonia 36 Cedaredge 47, Delta 43 (OT) ——— RESULTS ——— Girl’s 3A Western Slope League Cedaredge Head Coach: Ryan Hilbig 52 at Meeker Tny vs Aspen 11/30/17 38 at Meeker Tny vs Meeker 12/1/17 43 at Meeker Tny vs Soroco 57 @ Ridgway 12/5/`7 50 vs Hotchkiss @ FCNB 12/15/17 47 vs Delta @ FCNB 12/16/17 (OT) Record: 6-0 Up Next: 1/5/18 @ Olathe 6 p.m. Delta Head Coach: Kyle Crowder 64 vs Hotchkiss 12/5/17 62 @ Basalt 12/7/17 53 vs Olathe 12/12/17 48 vs Paonia @ FCNB 12/15/17 43 vs Cedaredge @ FCNB 12/16/17 (OT) Record: 4-1 Up Next: 1/5/18 vs Roaring Fork 6 p.m.

8 37 39 5 32 43

38 25 45 36 47

Girls 2A District 5 Hotchkiss Head Coach: Haillie Taylor 44 at Paonia Shootout vs Nucla 11/30/17 25 67 at Paonia Shootout vs Rid 12/1/17 11 61 at Paonia Shootout vs Nor 12/2/17 38 38 @ Delta 12/5/17 64 54 @ Telluride 12/7/17 33 32 vs Hotchkiss @ FCNB 12/15/17 50 32 vs Paonia @ FCNB 12/16/17 35 Record: 4-3 Up Next: 1/5/18 @ Caprock Academy 7 p.m.; 1/6/17 vs Plateau Valley 4 p.m.

Boys 3A Western Slope League Cedaredge Head Coach: Craig Cerise 57 @ Ridgway 12/5/17 24 53 vs Rangely @ White River Tny 12/7/17 39 38 @ Meeker @ White River Tny 12/8/17 71 75 vs Soroco @ White River Tny 12/9/17 58 69 vs Hotchkiss @ FCNB 12/15/17 63 54 vs Delta @ FCNB 12/16/17 71 Record: 4-2 Up Next: 1/5/18 vs Olathe 7:30 p.m. Delta Head Coach: Rob Ames 84 vs Hotchkiss 12/5/17 59 64 @ Basalt 12/7/17 58 70 vs Olathe 12/12/17 45 62 vs Paonia @ FCNB 12/15/17 30 71 vs Cedaredge @ FCNB 12/16/17 54 Record: 5-0 Up Next: 1/5/18 vs Roaring Fork 7:30 p.m. Boys 2A District 5 Hotchkiss Head Coach: Eric Hollembeak 77 at Paonia Shootout vs Nucla 11/30/17 27 31 at Paonia Shootout vs Rid 12/1/17 28 69 at Paonia Shootout vs Nor 12/2/17 21 59 @ Delta 12/5/17 84 82 @ Telluride 12/7/17 78 63 vs Cedaredge @ FCNB 12/15/17 69 43 vs Paonia @ FCNB 12/16/17 60 Record: 4-3 Up Next: 1/5/18 @ Caprock Academy 8:30 p.m.; 1/6/18 vs Plateau Valley 5:30 p.m. Paonia Head Coach: Chase Roeber 54 at Paonia Shootout vs Nor 12/1/17 34 54 at Paonia Shootout vs Rid 12/2/17 18 52 @ Olathe 12/5/17 66 55 vs Coal Ridge 12/8/17 64 30 vs Delta @ FCNB 12/15/17 62 60 vs Hotchkiss @ FCNB 12/16/17 43 Record: 3-3 Up Next: 1/5/18 @ Plateau Valley 7 p.m.; 1/6/18 vs Caprock Academy 4 p.m.

Nolan Egging 1A

Colton Peebles 1A

Clay Campbell 1A

Cyrus Malek-Madani

B8 Wednesday, January 3, 2018

SCHOOL

Delta County Independent

Pinnacol Foundation scholarship applications are due Feb. 15

Photo submitted

Lincoln’s Terriﬁc Kids

The Delta Kiwanis presented Lincoln Elementary students with Terriﬁc Kids awards on Dec. 5. The students are recognized by teachers for outstanding characteristics, achievement and effort. The recipients (and their reason for recognition) for this week are: (back row, left to right) Kealey Crawford (diligence), Edwin Martinez (diligence), Kade Davis (diligence), Joachim Jones (diligence), Jared Comerer (diligence), Anthony Armendariz (diligence), Gabino Miramontes (diligence), Morgan Ortega (diligence), Dally Harrison, (diligence) Estrella Grajeda (diligence), Aadrey Fraser (diligence); (third row) Dallice Delhagen (responsibility), Julianna Houghton (kindness), Ava Martinez (helpfulness), Addison Collins (responsibility); Megan Laurent (kindness), Kayden Crawford (character), JoJo Komives (leadership), Isabella Hickman (diligence), AJ Hearing (self control), Noah Kehmeir (character), Hailey Lopez (diligence), Leah Esser (perseverance); (bottom row) Eric Weaver (respect), Sebastian Greer (teamwork), Jalissa Davis (perseverance) and Sophie Gonzalez (responsibility).

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The Pinnacol Foundation is accepting applications for the 2018-2019 school year. The foundation provides scholarships to children whose parents have been injured or killed in workrelated accidents, regardless of insurance carrier. The application deadline is Feb. 15. Since its inception in 2000, the Pinnacol Foundation has awarded $4.5 million to nearly 500 students for college or vocational training. The average scholarship is $3,500 and the funds can be used at any institution accredited by the United States Department of Education or another appropriate accrediting agency. This includes community colleges, universities and vocational training programs. Current scholarship recipient Morgan Crouse, of Loma, found hope in the Pinnacol Foundation.

When Morgan was six years old, her father was killed in a workplace injury. “The loss of my dad left me with a very hard shell to crack,” Morgan said. “I don’t talk about it much, but I am happy to talk with someone else who understands. Even that is rare.” Morgan has found solace in music, often expressing it with the trusty guitar she totes wherever she goes. And with a Pinnacol Foundation scholarship in hand, she’s now pursuing a degree in business management at Colorado Mesa University. After graduation, she plans to put that degree into action and launch a career in music. “It is a privilege to help these students — many of whom are the first in their families to continue their education beyond high school — pursue their educa-

tional dreams,” said Edie Sonn, chair of the Pinnacol Foundation board of directors. To qualify for a foundation scholarship, a student must be the natural, adopted, step-child or full dependent of a worker who was injured or killed in a compensable work-related accident during the course and scope of employment with a Colorado-based employer. The foundation evaluates the severity of injury sustained by each student’s parent or guardian, as well as the student’s academic achievement, financial need, civic involvement and strength of essay. Students must have a minimum 2.0 GPA and be between the ages of 16 and 25. Visit pinnacol foundation.org to complete the online application or call 303-361-4775 for more information.

Sign up for winter dance classes Winter dance classes begin at Bill Heddles Recreation Center the week of Jan. 16. Linda Dysart teaches preschool dance and beginning, intermediate and advanced classes in ballet and jazz. The cost is $65 for the 10-week session with a recital at the end of the session. (There is an additional fee for the recital costume.) Schedules are available at Bill Heddles Recreation Center, 531 N. Palmer Street, Delta. Call 874-0923 for more information.

Students of the Month

Photo submitted

Garnet Mesa Elementary School congratulates the fourth and ﬁfth grade Students of the Month for November: (back row) Sydnie Atchley, Yuraly Arias, Anika Hovel and Ty Reed; (front row) Hunter Simineo, Rodrigo Blanco and Mariah Tushinsky.

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Lincoln’s Terriﬁc Kids

The Delta Kiwanis presented Lincoln Elementary students with Terriﬁc Kids awards on Dec. 12. The students are recognized by teachers for outstanding characteristics, achievement and effort. The recipients (and their reason for recognition) for this week are: (top row, left to right) Alisson Garcia (respectful), Owen Clay (self-discipline); (middle row) Isabella Kowalkowski (perserverance), Fabian Felix (diligence), Danny Dunsing (responsibility), Jonnie Rule (self-discipline); (bottom row) Riley Roberts (perserverance), Bailey Labrum (teamwork), Adalynne Ware (diligence), Sierra Davis (compassion), Gabriel Giron (kindness), Tyler Serio (responsibility) and Sherlene Medina (kindness).

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Photo submitted

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Special Olympics coach sought Special Olympics Colorado - Delta is looking for a track and field coach for school-age athletes. If a coach can be recruited before early January, Special Olympics will prepare a flyer to share with potential athletes and schedule a meet-andgreet in early February. If you are interested, please call Julie Fite, western regional manager, at 970945-0395. Coaches are integral to the success of Special Olympics. Anyone involved in coaching Special Olympics will tell you the personal rewards are great. All share a desire to help athletes be the best they can be. Those 16 and over, with or without sports experience, can serve as coaches. Special Olympics Colorado is a nonprofit organization providing year-round sports training and competition for children and adults with intellectual disabilities.

Classifieds

January 3, 2018

Rentals

AVAILABLE JANUARY 1, 2018 in Cedaredge. 270 W. Main St., 2650', 3 bed., 3 bath home with bonus room. Near elementary school and Main St. $1200/ mo. plus utilities, first & last month's rent and damage deposit required. Pets are negotiable. Call 970-2345869 or 970-234-3502 if interested. (TFNx1)

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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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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) 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) EDITOR WANTED FOR A position in a 25-year-old Delta County publishing company. Must be very familiar with Microsoft WORD, and be precise and accurate in all aspects of the process. This is a part-time, home-based business, operating primarily between February and July. Some travel within Colorado may be involved. Only serious applicants please. No resumes. Applicants must respond by letter stating qualifications, current employment situation, and a statement as to how this position fits your personality. No benefits. Salary negotiable. Respond to SU Company, P.O. Box 86, Delta, CO 81416. (2x1)

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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)

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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”

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) 250ALCOHOLICS ANONY- 1180. DELTA FOOD PANTRY mous meets Thursdays at 7 needs meals for Delta fami- p.m. Friends of Bill W. Club. AARP DRIVER SAFETY SUPPORT THE DELTA lies who are temporarily 897 Palmer Street, Delta. Course. Save on insurance, Public Library. Give a gently in need. Donations of nonkeep up on newer traffic used book in the Downstairs perishable food may be CO FATHER’S NETWORK- laws, learn defensive drivdedicated to providing Book Store. brought to 628 Meeker. ing techniques. For details community and education and schedule contact John to fathers of special needs Loring (970) 856-6924 or kids. Meets twice monthly (970) 424-1778. on the 1st Saturday at 11 a.m. and the 3rd Monday HOTCHKISS-CRAWFORD at 6:30 p.m. - 511 E. 10th St, Historical Museum. Winter Delta. See our website for hours, Saturdays 1-4 p.m. more details: www.codads. thru December 24. $3 admisorg sion or free to members. Come see our museum at CARING FOR CARE- 2nd & Hotchkiss Streets in givers, C4C - support- Hotchkiss. 872-3780. ing hearts that care. Open to ANY caregiver. Meets CHECK OUT THE BOOK monthly in Delta, 2nd store at the library. You'll Tuesday at 11 a.m. - 511 E. find a great selection of 10th St, Delta. paperbacks at reasonable prices. THE ABRAHAM CONNECtion homeless shelter, IF YOU LOVE BOOKS, located at 480 Silver St., you will love the Downstairs Delta, offers emergency Bookstore in the basement overnight shelter and food of the Delta Public Library. to men, women and famiANONYlies in the Delta area mid- NARCOTICS October- April. Call us at mous meets at 9th and 970-773-8290 to make a Palmer, Delta, Mondays and referral, or for informa- Fridays at 8 p.m. tion on how to volunteer HELP!!! KEEP THE or donate. www.Delta animal population under A b r a h a m C o n n e c t i o n . control, and SAVE an aniorg. mal's life. Adopt your new HOSPITAL VOLUNTEERS cat or dog from the Delta Wanted! Delta County County Humane Society. Memorial Hospital needs Adoption fee is minimal. hospital volunteers. Days Call 874-2149. and hours are flexible. THERE IS A VFW MEETING There are currently open- on the first Monday of each ings in the ER, Oncology, month. At 6 p.m. there is a Gift Shop and some addi- potluck and the meeting is tional areas. If you are at 7 p.m. at the First Baptist interested, please contact Church, 1250 Pioneer Rd., Volunteer Coordinator, Delta. For further inforPercy Ake at (970) 596-7458 mation, call 874-8172 Jim for an application. Baker, Quartermaster. A One Year Subscription WOMEN ONLY AA MEET- CHAPTER, UNITS OF DAV includes our print edition ings, Delta, Saturdays, 11:00 regular meetings on the a.m., at St. Luke's Episcopal second Monday of each and full access to our website. Church, 5th & Palmer (back month at 7 p.m. at the door). $ Veterans Building, 15th & In-County Senior Rate Howard, Delta. For further FREE DIAPERS FOR UP $ to one year! Pregnant information, call Paul Carter In-County Rate women in Delta County can 874-5150. $ In-State Rate now get help to quit smok- FAMILIES BELIEVING ing and get something they in families: Tandem Families $ Out-Of-State Rate can really use after their is an innovative, private baby arrives — free diapers. non-profit mentoring proHealthy moms have healthy gram providing services for babies. Enroll in the Baby & at-risk children of Delta and 401 Meeker St. Me Tobacco Free program Mont-rose counties. Anyone today. Contact the Delta interested in volunteering Delta, CO County Health Department their services or donating 970-874-4421 at 874-2165 or your local usable items should call physician. www.deltacountyindependent.com 874-3000 or 252-7445.

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INDEPENDENT

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Public Service YOU HAVE THE POWER TO change a child's life! Children are waiting for senior partners in Delta County right now! Can you spare 3 hours a week? We need your help! Call today for more information. Please volunteer to spend time with a child in our community. Partners of Delta, Montrose and Ouray, 874-4661, www. partners-west.org. or www. deltayouth@montrose.net. SUPPORT THE DELTA Public Library. Give a gently used book in the Downstairs Book Store. SAVE EYEGLASSES, OLD jewelry and silver or bits of gold and silver scraps. The Grand Odd Fellow Lodge is sending them to: New Eyes for the Needy, 549 Millburn Ave., Short Hills, NJ 07078 or send them to: Gale Conger, Secretary of IOOF Lodge #116, 544 St. Hwy. 548, Delta, CO 81416. THE AMERICAN RED Cross needs you. Become one of the Red Cross volunteers who says, “We’ll Be There, Because Help Can’t Wait!” Call your local Red Cross Chapter at 970-2424851 or 1-800-HELP NOW for information on the difference you can make in someone’s life as a disaster volunteer. DELTA HAS A BOOKstore in the basement of the library featuring gently used books and magazines. Come check it out! UNEMPLOYED? JOIN others for a time of networking, encouragement, and skill improvement. Latent Resources meets the first Thursday of each month at 6:30 at the Delta United Methodist Church (5th & Meeker). Attendants and visitors are encouraged to dress professionally and bring a note pad and a willingness to learn and be challenged. Find us on facebook.com & twitter.com - search "Latent Resources", or call James at 970-9019463. HEALTHY BABIES START with early prenatal care. Delta County Health Department. Offers access to immediate, temporary Medicaid for pregnant women who qualify. 8742165. BOOKS MAKE GREAT stocking stuffers. Find books at great prices in the basement of the Delta Public Library.

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PUBLIC NOTICES ��

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PUBLIC NOTICES

Delta County Independent

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Wednesday, January 3, 2018

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CHURCH

Delta County Independent

Christian perspectives class to be offered

A 15-week course called “Perspectives on the World Christian Movement” starts Jan. 9 at Grace Community Church in Montrose. The classes will be held in the “Grace Kids” building from 6 to 9 p.m. every Tuesday night from Jan. 9 until May 1, except for a break on April 3. The first two lessons are free and open to the public and can be attended without registering for the entire course. Snacks and a light dinner will be served each week. This is a course that is normally offered only in large metropolitan areas, but Montrose has successfully offered the course for several years. The coordinator for the upcoming class

is Julie Mixter. Along with other Delta students and alumni of this course, she is organizing carpools for Delta residents desiring to experience this class. This course is designed to help Christians understand God’s global purpose. The first five lessons explore God’s desire revealed in Scripture that all nations and every people group would know Him. The next four lessons explore the history of missionary movements from early Christianity to recent missionary movements. The final portion of the course explores how God is moving in the world today, and how Christians are reaching the world through culturally sensitive, spirit-

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inspired strategies. This part of the course is very exciting as you learn how God is moving in regions of the world that have remained unreached for centuries. Each lesson features a different instructor. Most of these instructors have been involved in world missions for many years. The first instructor is J. Shane Bennett, who has been recruiting, training, sending and going with short-term mission teams with the organization Frontiers USA. This organization has been working to mobilize Christians to reach the unreached throughout the world. The noted Christian author, John Piper, has said of this group,

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“I thank God that Frontiers obeys the command of Jesus to make disciples of all nations, including Muslims. May the King of Glory triumph without the sword in all Muslim peoples.” Bennett will be speaking Tuesday, Jan. 9, on God’s three-fold purpose: For kingdom victory over evil, for redemption and blessing to the nations, and for global glory in worship of God. This lesson is free and open to the public. The second lesson on Jan. 16 is also free and open to the public. The instructor for the second lesson is Eric Guthrie from Oklahoma City. He is an experienced missionary who has ministered to

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35 countries and currently the executive director of “Beautiful Feet,” an organization that trains missionaries specifically to go reach unreached people groups. Guthrie will speak on “The Story of Glory,” how God has been steadily unfolding a plan throughout all nations and generations to bring about His greater glory, drawing to himself the worship of all peoples. After these two lessons, you might be inspired to take the course. To continue, you need to register for the course before the third lesson. The cost for the entire course is $250 which covers the travel costs for these amazing instructors. Included in the price are a textbook

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and workbook. There are discounts for family members, and if you want to purchase the books elsewhere. Scholarships are available for those who demonstrate interest by attending the first two classes, based on need. More information can be found at the website Perspectives.org where you can find the Montrose class after selecting Colorado on the search map. You can register for the course on the site, or simply come to Grace Community for the first or second lesson and decide if you would like to take the course. You can also call Julie Mixter at 2160781 for information about the course or carpooling information.

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TELEVISION LISTINGS

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TELEVISION LISTINGS

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Delta County Independent

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SERVICE DIRECTORY

Delta County Independent

Wednesday, January 3, 2018

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1675 HWY 92 DELTA CO 81416

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BACK PAGE

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Every dog has a story

A C K P A G E

Delta County Independent

Surrounded by a sanctuary pack, Debbie Faulkner, holds Romeo a Chihuahua-spaniel puppy.

Photo submitted

Lucky dog! Murphy, an 8-month-old Aussie, got adopted just in time for Christmas.

BY DON BENJAMIN Staff Writer

very dog has a story. And Debbie Faulkner, owner and operator of the Black Canyon Animal Sanctuary, is under no illusion that she’s heard them all. Every day brings a combination of emotions familiar to those who work in animal rescue: pain, happiness, anger, love and frustration. The sanctuary, located near the town of Crawford in the shadow of Needle Rock, opened in 2009. Since then the facility has enabled over a thousand adoptions, most involving abused or neglected dogs. Puppies and classic breeds are quickly adopted. Older dogs take a bit longer but the adoption rate for senior pets is increasing thanks to Faulkner’s newest program entitled “Silver Whiskers.” The program matches senior citizens with older dogs. Faulkner keeps adopters, donors, and other followers up-to-date on dog news with regular posts to the sanctuary’s Facebook page. At last count the Black Canyon Animal Sanctuary had over 7,500 followers with “likes”

approaching 8,000. Some of her posts are bittersweet, such as a recent reflection on a dog that died. Some are progress reports on animals that entered the sanctuary frightened or injured or emaciated only to prosper a few months later. Still other posts chronicle success stories of lost pets reunited with their owners and forgotten animals adopted. Faulkner has a strong working relationship with animal shelters throughout Delta County and she is sometimes able to take in dogs that are anti-social or otherwise unadoptable. The sanctuary currently houses thirty dogs. Most will eventually be adopted but a few will spend their lives there. Dogs that mix well and play well with others are free to roam around the 40-acre sanctuary which includes a large building with a heated floor for winter and cool surroundings for hotter months. Fighters and biters are isolated — usually temporarily but sometimes permanently. Visitors are amazed to see how well dogs of every breed and size mingle and get along in a swirling, tail-wagging pack. Faulkner’s operation is essentially a one-woman show. Her familiarity with the temperament and personality of each dog helps her manage the pack and integrate new arrivals. For this reason, she is not seeking volunteers to help with the animals. And, since she is concentrating on her “Silver Whiskers” initiative which calls for older and smaller dogs to place with senior owners, she is no

Photo by Don Benjamin

longer taking in large dogs (defined as any animal over 20 pounds). Another foster home for cats operates under the Black Canyon Animal Sanctuary umbrella. The cat program, called Katmandu, is located in Paonia where residents, Pat and Mike Gwinn, have operated the facility since 2010. The Black Canyon Animal Sanctuary is a non-profit 501(3)c organization and monetary donations are always welcome. And those wishing to adopt are encouraged to follow the sanctuary on Facebook to learn the back-stories of available animals. For information or to donate, contact Faulkner by email: debbie@ blackcanyonanimalsanctuary. com or by phone at 970-3997152.

Photo by Don Benjamin

Dogs get plenty of attention and exercise at the 40-acre Black Canyon Animal Shelter.

Photo by Don Benjamin

Debbie Faulkner holds Yoyo who recently survived being snatched by an eagle. The eagle dropped the eight-year-old Chihuahua and other sanctuary dogs treed the predator while Faulkner retrieved the frightened animal. Cora, who lingers behind Faulkner, is a shy dog that has been slow in adjusting to other humans. The sanctuary is located outside the town of Crawford, near the Needle Rock outcrop.

Debbie Faulkner (left), owner/operator of the Black Canyon Animal Sanctuary compares notes with Amy Meyer who supports Austin Pets Alive. Meyer, whose Texas shelter rescued 5,000 dogs left stranded by Hurricane Harvey, learned about Faulkner’s “Silver Whiskers” program which matches older dogs with senior citizens.