Delta County Independent, Jan. 17, 2018 by Delta County Independent

NORTH FORK TIMES

SURFACE CREEK NEWS

NATURE CONNECTION

HHS grad, snow ranger to guide implementation of $1.7M grant, B1

SPORTS

THE ART OF ORIGAMI “Craniacs” gather weekly to fold colorful paper into birds, C2

DELTA COUNTY

UNBEATEN

Cedaredge girls remain undefeated on basketball court, B6 JANUARY 17, 2018 VOL. 135, NO. 3

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Water sets county employees adrift BY PAT SUNDERLAND Managing Editor

Employees of the Delta County Health Department are gradually moving back into their offices at 255 W. 6th Street in Delta after they were displaced by a torrent of water unleashed by a broken water heater. Sometime during the fourday Thanksgiving weekend, the hot water tank split and water gushed out. “The water just kept pouring and pouring,” said Karen O’Brien, health department director. While there are drains in the utility closet that housed the hot water heater, and in nearby bathrooms, they simply couldn’t keep up with the volume of water. O’Brien said city records show that the health department went through 82,000 gallons of water that weekend — compared to 3,000 gallons over a normal four-day period. “There was literally water coming out the door when

employees arrived at work Monday morning,” O’Brien said. Courthouse maintenance also saw flames coming out of the tank’s heating unit, but fortunately the flames did not spread. Employees grabbed mops, and frantically snatched up files and supplies sitting on the wet floor. It was clear shop vacs would not be enough to remove all the water, so ServPro was contacted. The disaster restoration placed 72 dehumidifiers/fans throughout the building to dry out floors and insulation. The noise was incredible, O’Brien said. A plan was immediately put into place to continue providing services. The two receptionists squeezed into a break room that had remained dry while department employees gathered up their equipment and moved into makeshift work spaces in the main courthouse. Even the county commissioners offered to give up their offices at one point.

“Everybody in the courthouse was so accommodating and supportive,” O’Brien said. “Once we found space, everybody got set up quickly. This disaster did not impact clients from day one.” The main entrance was not usable, but a sign directed them to a door on the west, where the receptionists could direct clients to the appropriate office. Renovation has included replacement of flooring and removal of the lower foot or two of drywall, so the wet insulation could be replaced. Stryker & Company of Montrose is wrapping up the interior remodel, and desks, file cabinets, exam tables and storage cabinets are gradually being moved back into place. Within the next week, O’Brien said she expects all employees to again be under one roof. “It’s definitely been crazy,” she said.

Photo by Pat Sunderland

The employee breakroom in the county courthouse meets the needs of the health department’s family planning unit, with a private bathroom, a sink for washing up, and a small room equipped for exams. Nurse manager Pat Sullivan (pictured) shares the office with Tamara Greninger, and when two clients have appointments at the same time, one has to borrow a second floor meeting room to protect patient confidentiality.

Attendance policy raises expectations BY PAT SUNDERLAND Managing Editor

A school district policy to reduce absenteeism appears to be achieving the desired results — forming good habits in preschoolers (and their families) and establishing expectations for older students who will soon be joining the work force. The policy, adopted at the beginning of the school year, limits students to nine absences per semester. Whether the absences are excused or unexcused, any student who misses more than nine days a semester is identified as “chronically absent.” The chronically absent students and their parents are required to sit down with school administrators to develop a plan to improve attendance. The policy outlines possible consequences for students with more than nine non-exempt absences per year. According to the policy, “Frequent absences may lead to poor academic work, lack of social development and possible academic failure. Regular attendance is of utmost importance for school interest, social adjustment and scholastic achievement. No single factor may interfere with a student’s progress more quickly than frequent tardiness or absence.” The policy also outlines intermediary steps to be taken after four and six unexcused absences. Cedaredge Elementary School principal Dan Renfrow said there have been some growing pains, as school administrators get the word out to students and their parents. Not all parents attend accountability meetings or

INDEX

Accent ........................... A4 Activities ....................... A7 Back Page ................... D8 Business ........................ A8 Bruin Tracks ............. C3-6 Church ............................C8 Classifieds .................. D1-2 Editorial ......................... A2 Health & Fitness .......B8-10 Legals ......................... D3-4 North Fork Times ........B1-4 Obituaries ..................... A6 School Zone ............... A5-6 Sports ..........................B5-7 Surface Creek News ...C1-8 TV Listings ................. D5-6

back-to-school nights, so procedures are slowly becoming practice. “Our view is that this policy will establish lifelong habits of punctuality, of being in the right place ready to go and to contribute,” Renfrow said. While some parents react negatively to phone calls or letters from the school, Renfrow and other school administrators try to focus on building relationships. “It’s not us vs. them,” Renfrow said. “We’re a team.” Paonia Junior-Senior High School principal Randall Palmer notes there are varying reasons for absences, ranging from serious illness to family trauma to transportation. “What we’ve encountered is that each of these students is unique and requires a unique answer in order to keep them in school and engaged,” he told school board members in a board-principal exchange in late November. Delta High School principal Derek Carlson noted attendance is no longer centered around excused or unexcused; it’s centered around attendance. “At the high school level, it’s a young adult conversation about managing attendance. A big reason it’s been successful for us, is because it’s forced kids to be more adult-like. Everybody gets days off; just know that when you get back from vacation with your parents, you can’t also take a day to go shopping at the mall.” Expectations for students mirror those for school district employees, who also get nine employee days for sick leave, personal leave, whatever. “Why wouldn’t we teach kids that lesson?” Carlson

said. “This policy gives us the ability to hold them accountable.” DHS senior Kaleigh Nethington says she’s definitely seen more of the kids who last year continually “ditched.” “I also see a lot more kids not showing up late, which is really good because then it doesn’t disrupt our learning when they come in late.”

Teachers are more consistent about taking attendance every class period, she said, tallying up both absences and tardies. Four tardies equal one absence, she added. On the other hand, Taylor Bess said the attendance policy is frustrating. In the first semester the DHS senior went on vacation with her parents, then attended a

funeral, which put her in danger of losing class credit if she missed any more school days. “It’s frustrating because even if I’m doing really well in my classes, I could still potentially lose credit. “I think for a lot of other kids, it’s a good incentive to keep them coming to school. It just doesn’t work for everyone.”

Ambulance tax increase funds raises, equipment replacement BY PAT SUNDERLAND Managing Editor

In November, voters approved a mill levy increase for Delta County Ambulance District that more than doubled property tax revenues for the special district. The 2018 budget jumped from $537,000 to $1.1 million, and has given the board of directors the flexibility to restore funding for personnel, equipment and maintenance, and to begin rebuilding reserve funds that were depleted during the lean years. One of the top priorities was increasing compensation for DCAD’s highly trained and dedicated providers. DCAD manager Kirby Clock said every employee received a raise of 7.5 percent, to make up for a lack of pay increases over the past three or four years. In addition, paramedics and EMTs will receive pay increases based on responsibilities and capabilities. For example, DCAD plans to offer a class that will bring most paramedics up to critical care certification. In addition, some organizational changes will be made at the administrative level

that could lead to increased responsibilities. Clock explains that at one point, the ambulance district had a manager, an assistant manager and several captains. “The budget got so tight, those folks were never replaced when they left,” Clock said. Now the ambulance district has just a manager — Clock. To ensure continuity and provide advancement opportunities for employees, the board is looking at a new administrative structure. Clock said a committee is being formed, comprised primarily of employees, to determine how the new administrative structure will look. By increasing critical care capabilities for DCAD’s paramedics, fewer patients will require air transport to larger medical facilities. Some patients are flown to Grand Junction because of the time factor; some people fly because of the care factor, Clock observed. “If we can provide the same level of care, it’s much less expensive to be transported by ambulance than by helicopter or fixed wing,” Clock said. “It’s our goal to be able

House arrest for driver who hit school bus Samuel Rascon, the driver who rear-ended a school bus in North Delta last March, was in Delta County Court on Wednesday, Jan. 10. While the school bus driver and students escaped serious injury, Rascon is in a wheelchair. His Jan. 10 appearance to enter a plea was the first he’s made in person. Previously, the judge allowed him to communicate with the court by phone because of his injuries. Fifteen Delta students were seen by medical staff at Delta County Memorial Hospital following the accident. All were treated for various minor injuries and released.

Represented by the public defender, Rascon pleaded guilty to an amended charge of careless driving (no injuries) and driving under revocation as a habitual traffic offender. The plea bargain stipulates 60 days of house arrest, due to Rascon’s ongoing medical issues. He will also pay court costs and restitution. Rascon, 49, is a resident of New Mexico. Sentencing was scheduled for Feb. 14 to allow the court time to determine if electronic monitoring is available for the house arrest. Judge Jin Ho Pack has allowed Rascon to appear by phone for sentencing.

to provide that service.” About two-thirds of the increased revenue will be allocated for salaries and benefits; the remaining portion will help bring other budgeted items up to what Clock describes as “pre-cut” levels. A new ambulance and a new heart monitor are both included in the 2018 budget, contingent upon DCAD securing grants to cover half the cost of both. A new ambulance runs $240,000; a heart monitor is $38,000. A leading candidate for replacement is a 2003 ambulance with 350,000 miles that’s used for interfacility transfers. It has, by far, the highest miles in DCAD’s fleet, but has been extremely reliable, Clock said, so the ambulance district might also be looking at other models. “We have high mileage on quite a few ambulances, so that might force our hand,” he said. Ideally, DCAD will be able to replace an ambulance every other year. Catching up with payroll costs is another priority for the ambulance district. DCAD’s payroll is handled AMBULANCE TO A3

Nominations sought The Delta Area Chamber of Commerce is accepting nominations for Business of the Year, Nonprofit of the Year, Volunteer of the Year and — new this year, Educator of the Year. Nominees will be recognized at the chamber’s annual banquet Friday, Feb. 9, from 5:30 to 8 p.m. For a nomination form, visit the chamber website at deltacolorado.org.

A2 Wednesday, January 17, 2018

OPINION

LETTERS Delta council member takes a look at hot topics Dear Editor: I recently read some thought-provoking comments by a city council candidate. I don’t know if the comments were intended to create dissension within the current city council or an opportunity for the writer to promote their own personal, political and philosophical agenda. Let’s take a look back at the City of Delta and several issues that have caused more than one raised eyebrow. Devils Thumb Golf Course — This has been a burr under a lot of saddles for a long time. Did you know that the retention of Delta’s Grand Mesa water rights had a direct link to the creation of our golf course? Has the golf course been utilized to maximize its revenue potential for the City of Delta? The simple answer is NO! but significant progress is being made to that end. Did you know that for the second year in a row, Devil’s Thumb Golf Course has been ranked third in the category “Best Western Slope Course.” The recognition comes from Colorado Avid Golfer, 3/16/2017. Whether or not you play, come up and see what a true asset to the community looks like and you may even get to see where our local antelope play. If you see one of our parks and recreation employees, a “thank you” goes a long way. The bypass (also known as Confluence Drive) — This particular burr is subsiding as more and more people utilize it. I admit that I wasn’t in favor of it during its inception and construction. My biggest concern was the potential negative impact on our downtown businesses. On the contrary. It has actually improved our downtown by relieving some of the truck traffic. Just like a fine wine, its usage gets better with age. Now it’s our turn to help those businesses. With regard to the golf course and the bypass, my philosophy is simple. We aren’t going to do away with either, nor should we. Let’s maximize their benefits to our community by recognizing and capitalizing on their potential. DURA (Delta Urban Renewal Authority) — This is one of the tools available to a municipality to generate funds for a project or projects. There

are a lot of misunderstandings and misconceptions of what DURA is all about. As with most anything, there are proponents and opponents of a DURA and TIF. Under DURA, the municipality has the ability to create a TIF (tax increment financing). This probably creates the biggest misunderstandings. A TIF DOES NOT take any existing mill levy away from a taxing entity. It only affects any increased taxes due to property improvement valuations and only for the life of the TIF. In short, the DURA and TIF are there to create incentives for properties and investors to improve and ultimately increase the tax base. Did you know that the City of Delta does not receive any property tax money? Our main source of revenue comes from sales taxes. I have heard it said that these improvements would best serve the community if they were 100 percent funded with other than government monies. I completely concur. Unfortunately, private investors are not exactly beating our city doors down. How long can we wait to see if they come? I have heard it said that government does not create jobs. For the most part, that is true, but this is where your elected and employed city officials come into play. It is our responsibility, with your participation, to create the vision, incentives and catalyst for those jobs and projects. Is there risk? Yes! There is risk with anything that produces dividends. The reality is that if we’re not moving forward, we’re going backwards. Perhaps you have heard the saying that “success breeds success.” Now here’s a topic that will generate some raised eyebrows. Delta has had a revolving door with city managers. I’m not going to try and explain why, because quite honestly, I don’t know why. I do know that looking backward for justification does not fit with our vision for Delta moving forward. Our city manager Dave Torgler, brought to the city a wealth of knowledge, experience and management skills that you would expect to find in much larger communities. His methodical approach to funding solutions, partnerships and community involvement

Project successfully completed

is evident on a daily basis. As a community, we must give him the opportunity to bring those visions to fruition. If you don’t know him, I would encourage you to meet with him and discuss your visions and concerns. There are basically two forms of government at the municipal level. The first is the “mayorcouncil” and the second is “council-city manager” also referred to as “home rule.” Delta is the latter. The council is elected by the voters and the city manager is hired by the council and answers directly to the council. All other city employees answer directly to the city manager through department heads. In addition to the two scheduled council meeting each month, there are also numerous work sessions where a variety of issues and topics are dealt with. If any of the topics require a vote, resolution or enactment it is passed onto the council to be voted on. All of these meetings are posted and comply with the open meeting laws. Community involvement is always welcomed and encouraged. I bring up these points for clarification of council proceedings. Sometimes, things are said and written about that don’t include all the facts. Comments may even appear to be more of a conflict with one’s personal philosophical agenda. As a council member and as your mayor protem, I am committed to providing leadership on the council as well as the various boards I serve on. It is my belief that a cohesive council is an effective council. Do we agree on every issue or topic? No! Do we all agree on doing our best for the citizens of Delta? Yes! Are there still issues that need to be addressed, and are we addressing them? Yes! As a citizen of Delta, we should all be very proud that we have some of the most dedicated, committed and competent employees serving our city. Remember, a “thank you” goes a long way. Please know that I have only one agenda: to provide leadership and foster a community that we can all be proud of and one that instills that pride in our children. We must make every effort to create and maintain a community that perpetuates why we have chosen to live in Delta. Equally important is that we provide our children with the educational skills, employment opportunities and pride so they too will have a desire to make Delta their home. Does progress have a price tag? Yes! Do we have to compromise those things that we love about Delta to achieve our goals? No! Ron Austin Delta

and lots of water to contend with during construction. Tribble Construction handled it all and came in on time and under budget and we all have a great street to last many years. I would also like to thank United Engineering and all the staff at Town Hall for making this project a success. Hotchkiss is fortunate to have good people that make this community stronger. Look for a new 500,000-gallon culinary water storage tank project in 2018 and a new public safety officer. Merry Christmas and Happy New Year’s, Dear Editor: Wendell A. Koontz Citizens of Cedaredge, Mayor if you are still not happy Town of Hotchkiss with the water and sewage rates imposed last August, there is still something you can do about it. You can run for town trustee. Running on the platform of revising these rates to a more affordable amount, you will probably be elected. DELTA COUNTY INDEPENDENT (UPS 152-700) is published weekly on Please hurry though, Wednesdays at 401 Meeker St., Delta, CO 81416. Second class postage nomination petitions paid at DELTA, CO. POSTMASTER: Send address changes to: DELTA need to be completed and COUNTY INDEPENDENT, PO BOX 809, DELTA, CO 81416 returned to town hall by 401 Meeker St. • (970) 874-4421 Jan. 22. editor@deltacountyindependent.com Robert Arnold ads@deltacountyindependent.com Cedaredge

Dear Editor: The Town of Hotchkiss recently completed the final phase of a multiyear project upgrading sanitary and storm water sewer in the town. Pinon Drive on the west end of Hotchkiss was the last work to be finished. The project was designed by the town with the project bid to multiple contractors, and awarded to Tribble and Sons Construction as low bidder. On behalf of the town, I commend Seth, Jake Dick, and all the Tribble team for their strong work ethic, attention to detail, and especially for their safe work culture. The Pinon Drive project had difficult unstable soils, old drainage lines,

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Welcome to Paonia: Tips for newcomers Dear Editor: Locals are noticing a LOT of new people in town... Used to be that we recognized almost all of the people we’d see in Don’s Market — now it’s less than half who seem familiar. So, welcome all newcomers and here are some tips to integrate into our wonderful community: The most important tip: make eye contact with your new neighbors and say “Hi.” Readily engage in casual conversations with people and be friendly. Get a post office box. When you go out of town, you won’t have to put a hold on your mail but mostly, you will see your new friends and neighbors more often — especially if you pick up your mail between 11:30 a.m. and 1 p.m. This is one place to connect with the community, check the postings, and engage in casual, friendly conversations. Volunteer with one of our many nonprofits or your new local church. This is the best way to show your commitment to building a vibrant Paonia. When you sign up for a task, surprise people by doing what you said you’d do and finish ahead of time. Be fashionably late. Many (some say “most”) events and meetings in Paonia start late. Many people in town like to make a big deal about how busy and/or engaged they are ... a fact proven by their unsuccessful attempts to show up on time. Always, always, always yield to any reverse lights on cars as people back up onto Grand Avenue. Our inside joke is: “Must not be from around here” when we see a car who won’t yield when we try to back up, a fact usually

supported by out-of-state license plates. Yielding also applies to pedestrians, dogs and unattended children. Paonia is still a safe enough town for kids to gather, play, and walk downtown. Avoid the “Paonia Shuffle” which is defined as taking on so many volunteer commitments that you have absolutely no free time and even worse, don’t give fully to the organization(s) you’re volunteering for. The “Paonia Shuffle” also has to do with people trying to make a living here. Your first priority is to ensure you have resources needed to survive which is a huge challenge for many newcomers. As one astute local said: “DMEA will not take a trade for my electric bill.” Newcomers need to either extract money from sources outside the valley or figure out how to make money here. Paonia can divert you from making a living with the many requests to get engaged in volunteering. Spend every possible

dollar in town. We’ve gone through a lot of ups and downs with Chaco Sandals and the mining closures. Online purchasing and shopping in Junction or Montrose shut down our only clothing and shoe stores in Midway. Don’t let that happen to our critical remaining businesses, especially Don’s, Dependable Lumber, Hays Drugs, and our downtown shops. We are really glad to see the growth and new people coming to town. Rick at Dependable says it’s the most building activity he’s seen in two decades. Help us keep what is most precious about our Town, commit to become integrated, be friendly, and welcome to Paonia. We’re glad you’re here. Dave Knutson Paonia (Editor’s note: Dave and Jill Knutson moved to Paonia in 2003. He started out working at Chaco Sandals and now does HR consulting. Jill is a pastel artist. Both love living in the North Fork and Paonia.)

OC should live within its means Dear Editor: On Jan. 10, I spoke at the Town of Orchard City’s regular meeting. “I respectfully ask our trustees to pull, in its entirety, the marijuana tax ballot question, Resolution 2018-02 because a complete cost analysis of this ‘enterprise’ has not been provided. I am not convinced that it would provide the cash flow our town is seeking to pay its bills, fund its improvements or stash into an emergency fund.” Trustee Huerkamp speaks of great revenue streams from licensing

and fees, not only the taxes to be collected. There hasn’t been mention of the cost associated with this venture. Sales tax and property tax increases will also be on the ballot. Are more taxes on our citizens the answer or should we charge the trustees with looking at our expenses and cutting them, as my friend Dave stated that night. We are a small town with limited financial resources. Perhaps we should “live within our means.” Mary Ditlove Austin

Law enforcement blotter From the Delta been towed at the request of the Colorado State Police Department: Patrol. Possible suspects have been identified; the Jan. 8: David A. Garcia, 33, investigation continues. of Delta was arrested Jan. 9: At about 4 a.m., depuand jailed on two warrants with a $5,000 and ties responded to the report of a vehicle on fire $0 bond. near the intersection of Jan. 9: James A. Woods, 39, of Austin Road and JaveliDelta was arrested and na Road in Orchard City. jailed on a warrant with The unattended 2001 Dodge Dakota truck was a $1,000 bond. parked on the shoulder of Jan. 10: Kaitlyn J. Olson, 27, of the road. Deputies tried Paonia was issued a sum- unsuccessfully to put out the fire with a fire extinmons for shoplifting. guisher. When Cedaredge Jan. 11: Michael L. Blair, 31, of firefighters arrived on Delta were issued sum- the scene, the vehicle was fully engulfed in flames. mons for shoplifting. The truck was registered Jan. 12: Christopher R. Has- to Domenico Farms of sell, 43, of Hotchkiss was Denver. The firm realized arrested and jailed on the truck had been stolen charges of domestic vio- only after a phone call lence, violation of a pro- from the Delta County tection order, harassment Sheriff ’s Office. There are no suspects; the case and theft. Matthew L. Garcia, remains under investiga38, of Delta has a valid tion. A Delta woman reportwarrant issued for allegations of domestic violence ed the theft of mail from and third degree assault. her mailbox on 2100 A juvenile female of Road. She did not realDelta was issued a sum- ize the theft had taken place until her bank mons for shoplifting. called to tell her someone Jan. 13: Ryan D. Gana, 27, was attempting to cash a Delta was arrested and check written to her. jailed on a warrant with Jan. 10: An Orchard City resia $1,500 bond. Aaron T. Kuretich, 26, dent received an email of Hotchkiss was arrested that a package had and jailed on charges of been to delivered to his domestic violence/harass- address, but the package was not in his mailbox. ment. Donald W. Price, 69, Later, he found an empty homeless was issued a box in the middle of the summons for shoplifting road which he believed Citations: Six tickets had contained a book he were issued this week for ordered. various traffic violations. Jan. 11: Deputies responded From the Delta to frantic calls for assisCounty Sheriff’s Office tance from a home near Cedaredge. After evalu(partial list): ating the situation, they called for assistance from Jan. 8: The theft of a 2003 Adult Protective Services Chevrolet Trailblazer was and the Center for Menreported from D&S Tow- tal Health. ing on Highway 348. The Jan. 12: Dispatch received a owner reported the chain and lock had been cutt off call from a Cedaredge a gate. The vehicle had woman whose car was

stuck in a ditch. She was not injured, but was not certain of her exact location. At about 8:45 p.m., deputies assisted the Paonia Police Department with an accidental shooting on Minnesota Creek Road. (See complete story on page B1). Jan. 14: Deputies were dispatched to a Paonia area residence to deal with an “out of control” woman who was reported to be a paranoid schizophrenic. Jan. 14: Deputies are investigating two separate shooting incidents in Peach Valley. The homeowners found bullet holes in either the siding of their home or in windows. Deputies also found bullet fragments on the interior of the homes. The homeowners and neighbors who were canvassed reported hearing shots on Thursday, Jan. 11, but said that’s not uncommon in their rural area. Anyone with information about these incidents is asked to call the Delta County Sheriff ’s Office at 874-2000 or Crimestoppers at 874-8810. The theft of a .22 caliber revolver and two sets of handmade spurs was reported from a home on W. Spring Circle in Orchard City. A 78-year-old woman with Alzheimer’s was reported missing by her husband at about 6 p.m. Deputies and Delta County Search and Rescue searched the area surrounding her home on 2550 Road, Cedaredge, until about 10:30 p.m. They resumed the search the following morning after the sun had risen. The woman was located a short time later and was transported to Delta County Memorial Hospital for medical evaluation. She was cold but uninjured.

LOCAL NEWS

Delta County Independent

Wednesday, January 17, 2018

Recent hires bring DPD to full strength The Delta Police Department is pleased to introduce two new officers. Kenneth Taylor and Kevan Arreola were hired in January 2018. Taylor is a resident of Delta; Arreola makes his home in Olathe. Taylor was born in Montrose and moved to the Delta area when he was 8 years old. He graduated

from Delta High School in May 2011 and shortly after graduation, left for basic training with the United States Air Force. He attended basic training at Lackland Air Force Base, San Antonio, Texas, then moved to Fort Lee, Va., for training. Upon completion of training in Virginia, Taylor was stationed at Dover Air Force

Base, Dover, Del., for the length of his enlistment as an air transportation journeyman. He was deployed twice to Camp Leatherneck, Afghanistan in 2012 and 2014. He separated from the Air Force in July 2017 after being accepted into the police academy in Grand Junction. Arreola was born

Investigators determine CSP trooper was not target of shots BY PAT SUNDERLAND Managing Editor

Donovan Sinka, 21, was arrested by a SWAT team in Denver early Tuesday, Jan. 9, after an incident that occurred north of Cedaredge on Monday, Jan. 8. Delta County Sheriff Fred McKee provided a summary of the incident, which initially looked like Sinka was targeting a Colorado State Patrol trooper who lived in the area. Investigators determined that was not the case. They learned Sinka had been asked by family members to leave their property. He was reportedly quite angry and as he

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left in his car, he allegedly grabbed a firearm and shot a couple of rounds off. Sinka was located in Denver via pings on his cell phone and taken into custody. On Thursday he was transported to Delta

Kevan Arreola

County Jail and held on charges of prohibited use of a weapon, possession of a weapon by a previous offender, felony menacing and shooting from a roadway. He posted bond of $2,500.

Officers assaulted while making arrest Donald C. Abeyta, 26, of Delta was arrested and jailed Jan. 5. At the time of the arrest Abeyta was removed from a closet in the residence where he had been hiding. When officers tried to place Abeyta in restraints he allegedly resisted arrest, assaulting police officers multiple times. Once Abeyta was cuffed he was placed into the prisoner compartment of a patrol vehicle. Abeyta began to bang his head into the barrier between the front seat and the prisoner compartment of the vehicle resulting in a wound on his forehead. Abeyta was transported to Delta County Memorial Hospital for evaluation and medical attention. Once cleared from the hospital, Abeyta

and raised in Delta. He attended Lincoln Elementary School, Delta Middle School and Delta High School. He attended the law enforcement academy at Delta-Montrose Technical College and was hired by the Olathe Police Department in February 2015. He was employed by the Olathe Police Department until December 2017. In his free time, he enjoys working out and spending time with his family.

was transported to Delta County Jail where he was booked in on charges of sexual assault on a child by one in a position of trust, second degree assault on a peace officer, third degree assault, resisting arrest, obstructing a peace officer and criminal mischief.

Kenneth Taylor

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Sheriff’s photo

Donald Abeyta

Ambulance FROM PAGE A1 by the hospital, which in essence has been providing a short-term loan to DCAD. “We’re about two months behind,” Clock said. “They’ve been very good to us.” Finally, rebuilding reserves will be a process that takes place gradually over several years. DCAD

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City signs MOU with The Nature Connection The City of Delta has formalized its commitment to The Nature Connection projects on city property, to include extension of a trail around Fort Uncompahgre, providing a foundation and moving a cabin to the fort to serve as a gear hub, enhancing the observation mound at Confluence Park, and providing up to 300 swim lessons for third graders.

has survived since 2010 by drawing upon those reserves, proving how vitally important they are during the lean years. With the reserve funds depleted, DCAD was looking at cutting either payroll or hours of full coverage, both of which could have adversely affected response times. “It’s a whole lot nicer to work on a budget where we’ll be able to do some good things, rather than figuring where to cut,” he said following the November election.

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A4 Wednesday, January 17, 2018

ACCENT

Libraries offer a fresh start BY TRACY IHNOT Delta County Libraries

On Wednesday, Feb. 28, Delta County Libraries will offer its patrons a fresh start with a onetime fine forgiveness day. The event marks the end of Library Lovers Month, a time when library

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patrons show their love and support for the libraries. “February 2018 is the second annual Love Your Libraries campaign in Delta County,” says Lea Hart, district director of Delta County Libraries. “With the addition of fine forgiveness day, we want to encourage patrons to locate any lost items associated with their library cards. This year only, on Feb. 28, the libraries will forgive all fines on items that have been returned in good condition. “In the spirit of Library Lovers Month, fine forgiveness provides an opportunity to bring libraries, library patrons and the commu-

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nity together in a mutual show of affection,” says Hart. “The libraries gain back valuable resources that have been out of circulation, putting them back in the hands of other library patrons, without the cost of replacing the items.” “In addition, it provides a fresh start for patrons who may have stopped using the libraries due to an inability to pay the fines. This is especially true for many young students in Delta County who could benefit greatly from accessing library resources.” “After looking into statistics on Delta County students with library cards, we found that an alarming number of students were blocked due to overdue fines and fees,” explains Leah Morris, collections and systems administrator for Delta County Libraries. “Based on our numbers, roughly 15 percent of students are currently unable to use their library cards. We would like to see these young people come back to the libraries.” For that very reason, in December 2017, Delta County Libraries introduced a student ecard option for students in Delta County. The student e-card came as a direct result of coordinating with the school district to remove barriers for students obtaining library cards and the associated resources. With an e-card, students can access the online library for things like e-books, online classes, and research databases, without the possibility of accruing fines. While fine forgiveness will offer many people, young and old, a fresh start, it does not overshadow a patron’s responsibility for checked out items and any associated fines. “We will not clear fees for items that have not been returned. We are asking our patrons to make the effort to locate and return items to the library, or pay to replace those items,” explains Hart. And, starting March 1 fines for overdue items will begin accruing again per current library policies. “In many ways, it is also a fresh start for the library district,” says

Hart. “Old fines that have long gone unpaid will be cleared from our system and we have a greater opportunity to work with patrons on settling their accounts moving forward.” “Also, since it is Library Lovers Month, there is an opportunity for patrons to ‘pay it forward’ by deciding to pay their fines, or someone else’s, in the form of a donation,” Hart states. “Every single dollar counts in this library district. If we can bring more people, books, and goodwill into the district, we will call this event a success. All of these things translate to happier patrons, busier libraries, and future dollars.”

Delta County Independent

BIRTHS Nikki and Camden Welt of Hotchkiss are the parents of a daughter, Vaylee Violette Welt, born at 12:47 a.m. Jan. 5, 2018, at St. Mary’s Medical Center in Grand Junction. She weighed 7 pounds, 8.7 ounces and was 20 inches in length. She has a 2-year-old brother, Brantlee. Her grandparents are Terry and Kathy Welt, Bill Hunt and Debbie Caywood, all of Hotchkiss. Makinsie and Kevin Montoya of Montrose are the parents of a daughter, Addyson Jo Attaya Montoya, born Jan. 4, 2018, at Delta County Memorial Hospital. She

weighed 6 pounds, 11 ounces and was 19.25 inches in length. Jariann Lampton and Brice Simpson of Paonia are the parents of a son, Hayes Cole Simpson, born Jan. 9, 2018, at Delta County Memorial Hospital. He weighed 9 pounds, 2 ounces and was 20.5 inches in length. Travis and Brandy Sissom of Montrose are the parents of a daughter, Isla Skye Sissom, born Jan. 11, 2018, at Delta County Memorial Hospital. He weighed 7 pounds, 13 ounces and was 20.5 inches in length.

Capodices celebrate 50th wedding anniversary Joe and Dorinda ding anniversary Jan. 20. Capodice of Austin will Joe and Dorinda met celebrate their 50th wed- on a blind date while Joe was serving in the U.S. Navy in San Diego, Calif., and it’s been true love ever since. Before moving to Austin, the Capodices lived in Cedaredge and in Gunnison for 22 years. They have two children, Anthony Capodice of Coeur d’Alene, Idaho, and Adrienne (Neil) Sanchez of Grand Junction. They also have two grandchilJoe and Dorinda dren, Noah and Max SanCapodice chez.

Joe and Dorinda Capodice

Free income tax service is available from AARP AARP Foundation TaxAide offers free tax preparation help to anyone, especially those who are 50 and older, who can’t afford a tax preparation service. Tax-Aide is the nation’s largest free, volunteer-run tax assistance and preparation program. AARP Foundation Tax-Aide volunteers are trained and IRS-certified each year to ensure they know about and understand the latest changes and additions to the U.S. Tax Code.There’s no fee and no sales pitch for other services. AARP membership is not required. For an appointment in Delta call the Delta

Senior Center, 247 Meeker, at 874-7837. For an appointment in Montrose, call 252-4889. The checklist below includes items you need to bring when you visit an AARP Foundation Tax-Aide site: • Last year’s tax return.

• Social Security cards or other official documentation of Social Security number for yourself and every individual on your return. • Photo ID for all taxpayers. • Checkbook if you want to direct deposit any refund(s).

Square dance lessons scheduled in February Come learn to square dance and graduate with a certificate in just two weekends in February. The Delta Hubwheelers Square Dance Club will conduct lessons in four afternoons in a “miniblast.” Lessons are scheduled Saturdays and Sundays, Feb. 3-4 and 10-11, from 1-5 p.m. each day, at Bill Heddles Recreation Center, 531 N. Palmer Street, Delta. Please note the Saturday times are different now than on flyers previously printed. Les-

sons will be conducted by Naaman Moorehouse of Grand Junction, the regular club caller for the Hubwheelers. Fees for the classes are $12 each session for new students, or $48 total. Previous graduate dancers, aka “angels,” pay $3 per session, or $12 total. Square dancing is great fun for all ages, singles, couples, and families. Come make new friends and learn a skill that will last a lifetime! For more information, call 8353771 or 773-4495.

The Delta County Independent publishes engagements, anniversaries and wedding stories free of charge.

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SCHOOL

Delta County Independent

Wednesday, January 17, 2018

Harlem Wizards provide laughs for the entire family The Harlem Wizards are coming to Delta High School Tuesday, Feb. 13, at 7 p.m. This event is hosted by DHS Student Council, Delta area schools and the Delta Police Department. Throughout the game, fans will experience a magical display of tricks, coordinated ball handling, fancy passing and aero-

dynamic athleticism combined with high-energy comedy and audience interaction. Tickets purchased before the event are $10 for adults $8 for children. Tickets can be purchased at the following locations: Delta High School or online at www.Harlem wizards.com, from now

until the day of the game, Feb. 13. Tickets will also be available the day of the game at Delta High School. The cost at the door is $12 for adults and $10 children. For more information contact Shawna Magtutu at shawna. magtutu@deltaschools. com or 970-874-8031.

Photo submitted

Lincoln’s Terriﬁc Kids

Students of the Month

Photos submitted

Delta Middle School announces the December Students of the Month. Above are seventh and eighth graders (ﬁrst row, left to right) Lizzie Cooper, Madyson Hannegrafs, David Love, Alexi Armendariz, Clay Sandridge, Shawn Wyatt, Kyle Kincaide, Pway Doh, Kailie Hofschulte; (back row) Emily Cardenas, La Ku Paw, Melana McCormick, Emma Wise, Kurtis Nethington, Timmy Horn, Jerome Trujillo and Landon Henson. Below are sixth graders (from left to right) Preston Lewis, Dominique Verdeja, Cole Vance, Eban Ficklin, Mireya Mendoza, Regann Alsdorf and Brett Lahoe. Not pictured: Breigehlle Atchley.

The Delta Kiwanis presented Lincoln Elementary students with Terriﬁc Kids awards on Jan. 9. 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) Taylor Coldiron (respect), Lincoln Varner (compassion), David Farmer (self discipline), Colby Johnson (character), Isabella Lopez (citizenship); (middle row) Connor Wynn (citizenship), Omar Yepiz (helpfulness), Jacqueline Ponce (diligence), Noelle Roth (responsibility), Jaiden Brown (kindness); (front row) Nolan Long (respect), Gustavo Bernal (cooperation), Lilly Lopez (courage), Ariana Vieyra (citizenship) and Gemma Leib (respect).

22 scholarships available for Delta County students The Western Colorado Community Foundation (WCCF) is accepting applications for a wide variety of scholarships available to students residing in western Colorado. A total of 36 different scholarship funds managed by WCCF are available to students through one online application at www.wc-cf.org, including 22 different scholarships available to

Delta County graduating seniors and returning students. Scholarships range from $500 to $5,000+ and many are renewable for up to four years. Criteria varies from financial need, to GPA scores, to chosen field of study and covers both four year degree programs and vocational institutions. Deadline for applying is March 1. For more information contact

Cecile Aday at 970-2433767. The Western Colorado Community Foundation serves seven counties in western Colorado, managing charitable funds for community good. The Community Foundation manages charitable funds totaling over $65 million in assets and awards over $3.5 million in grants and scholarships.

Around DHS By Haylee Curry Health Occupation Students of America Students aspiring to break into the challenging yet rewarding field of medicine yield to an organization in which they are able to build their understanding, experience and competitive edge. Students test in an event of their choosing and the qualifying scores will proceed to the state competition where they will go head to head with students who share similar aspirations. So far Delta High HOSA has been primar-

Performers sought for talent show The Delta Middle School performing arts program is looking for acts to perform in a talent show. Students in grades 6-12 who attend Delta schools are invited to compete for fantastic prizes and bragging rights. Auditions will be held at the Delta Performing Arts Center Feb. 19, with the show on March 9. For more information, contact Andrew Bruington at Andrew. bruington@deltaschools. com.

ily organizing a variety of fundraisers in order to travel to the state competition. They have gone classroom to classroom, door to door, and house to house selling Gold Canyon candles, pumpkins, and butter braids. The students participating in 2017-2018 HOSA include the following: Alyssa Trujillo, Rosalea Gonzalez, Stephanie Ponce, Sameha Haque, Ashley Lahoe, Neveah Harper, Leslie Velasquez, Caleb Frazier, Aubrey Jones, Sara Geddes, Madison Geick, Abby Carlson, Lexi Quinn, Sarah Parker, Peyton Schuster, Sami Wollert, Oceana Bergholtz, Taylor Bess, John Holgate, KC Carlson, Casandra Saenz, Kolby Keller, Jason Violett, Skyler Kraii, Gauge Lockahrt, Makayla Kortz, and Madison Braham. The events the students have chosen to participate in this year are creative problem solving, HOSA bowl, biomedical debate, forensic medicine, medical math, photography, persuasive writing, medical terminology, and public speaking. The best of wishes to all of Delta’s competitors as they test the week of Jan. 16 to determine whether they will make it to state.

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* Valid at participating Western Slope locations on sets of 4 Cooper Discoverer RTX, Cooper GLS Touring, and Nitto Crosstek tires with installation purchase on all four tires. Up to 10% shop fee based on non-discounted retail price, not to exceed $35. Disposal fees, where permitted. Not valid with other offers. See store for pricing. Eligibility may vary depending on tire size and model. ��

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A6 Wednesday, January 17, 2018

Glenna Gieck

Glenna Jean Gieck of Delta died at her home Jan. 13, 2018, of acute liver and kidney failure. She was 77. A memorial service will be held at 3 p.m. Saturday, Jan. 20, at Calvary Baptist Church in Delta with Pastor Greg Teel officiating. Glenna Jean Murphy was born Dec. 20, 1940, in Appleton City, Mo., to John and Burnace (Winn) Murphy. She spent her early childhood in Grain Valley, Mo., and a short time in Arizona before her family moved east of Colorado Springs. She graduated from Ellicott High School in 1959. After

graduation, she worked for JCPenney and later worked for the city utilities of Colorado Springs. On March 17, 1961, she married David Gieck in Colorado Springs. They moved to Delta in 1980. Mrs. Gieck volunteered at the Delta Area Chamber of Commerce, delivered Meals on Wheels and served as chairman for the Ute Council Tree PowWow for several years. She was a member of the Calvary Baptist Church of Delta. She enjoyed family gatherings and cooking for them, camping, attending her grandchildren’s school activities, animals and supporting the Native American culture. She is survived by her husband of 56 years, David Gieck of Delta; children, Artie (Marty) Elliott of Delta, Jody Payne of Grand Junction and Marty (Kristi) Gieck of Delta; brother, John (Lupe) Murphy of Greeley; seven grandchildren, Hannah (Russell) Barry, Drew Elliott, Jill

We understand that people are steadfast in their decisions. With a subject this sensitive, the best way we can serve our families is to listen and respect their choices. Whether you decide on a traditional burial or cremation, our staff will never pressure you into purchasing more than you want and never give you any less than the best service. ��

OBITUARIES and Clay Payne, Tyler (Ashley) Gieck, Alicia (Jacob) Tribble and Madison Gieck; and five greatgrandchildren with one on the way. Memorial contributions may be made to HopeWest, PO Box 24, Delta, CO 81416. Taylor Funeral Service and Crematory is handling the arrangements. Visit the internet obituary and sign the online guest registry at www. taylorfuneralservice.com.

William Barton

Delta County Independent

Florence M. Baker was born Sept. 23, 1923, to Raymond and Viola (Shoemaker) Baker in Koehler, N.M. She spent her childhood and attended school in New Mexico. On Dec. 2, 1940, she married Robert Rathburn in Las Vegas, N.M. They celebrated 77 years of marriage in Decem-

ber. Mrs. Rathburn enjoyed traveling, fishing, camping, bowling and spending time with family and friends. She is survived by her husband, Robert Rathburn; sons, Bob Rathburn and Tom Rathburn; daughters, Sue Moss and Darla Kettle; 10 grandchildren; and numerous

great- and great-greatgrandchildren. She was preceded in death by a sister, Juanita Ploter; and a brother, Raymond Baker. Taylor Funeral Service and Crematory is handling the arrangements. Visit the internet obituary and sign the online guest registry at www. taylorfuneralservice.com.

LOCAL NEWS

Winter tree watering necessary during drought

William E. “Bill” Barton died Nov. 24, 2017, in Paonia. He was 85. A memorial service Despite a relatively will be held Saturday, Jan. 20, at 2 p.m. at the small amount of precipiPaonia United Methodist tation falling recently, the most recent U.S. Drought Church. Monitor map indicates that nearly all of ColoFlorence Rathburn rado is currently expeEckert resident Flor- riencing some level of ence M. Rathburn died drought. Trees in urban Jan. 10, 2018, at Delta and community settings County Memorial Hospi- throughout this region tal. She was 94. are dormant now, but still At her request, no ser- require occasional watervices will be held at this ing during dry winters to time. remain in top health. Keith Wood, urban and community forestry manager for the Colorado State Forest Service, says planted trees in Colorado, especially at lower elevations, often require additional watering in the winter months during extended dry periods (e.g., more than two weeks without lasting snow cover). “Adequately watering

your trees is the best way to ensure optimum health and vigor that will carry through to the growing season,” said Wood. “Overly dry trees become susceptible to root and branch die-back, and subsequent insect and disease problems.” The CSFS offers the following winter watering tips: • Water when it’s warm. The best time for winter watering is on days when snow has melted off and the temperature is above 40 degrees. • Water a wide area. Tree root systems may spread much wider than the height of the tree, with most absorbing roots in the top foot of soil. Apply water to soak the entire area underneath the full span of a tree’s branches.

• Water slowly. To ensure deep penetration, use a drip or soaker hose on low setting, or soft spray wand, to apply water slowly to the full area at the rate of 10 gallons per inch of tree diameter. • Retain mulch. To retain soil moisture and save water, apply 4 inches of organic mulch onto bare soil within 2 to 3 feet from the base of the trunk, but not directly against the trunk. • Repeat as necessary. Until abundant spring precipitation arrives, be sure to continue watering every few weeks in the absence of snow and colder temperatures. For more information about urban tree care, visit the Colorado State Forest Service website at www.csfs.colostate.edu.

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Garnet Mesa’s Terriﬁc Kids

Photos submitted

The following Garnet Mesa students earned a Terriﬁc Kid Award from the Kiwanis Club of Delta for their efforts to be a responsible citizen and student. Pictured above are kindergarten and ﬁrst grade students (back row, left to right) Payton Gates, Naydine Rascon, Sophia Lopez, Gabriella Gutierrez, Hayden Johnson; (front row) Taylor Davis, Alennis Ponce, Analia Lopez and KaiBree Sanchez. Below are second and third graders (back row) Corbin Cooper, Warren Duer, Keeton Collins, Eli Wiltsie; (front row) Yaretzi Toribio, Witten Atchley and Miray Horn.

Racquetball Rumble is Feb. 8-11 Bill Heddles Recreation Center is taking registrations for the 2018 Racquetball Rumble. The singles/doubles racquetball tournament will be held Feb. 8-11. Players must be available Thursday if they are playing in more than one division. The fee is $35 for the first division and $15

for the second division, ter, 874-0923, or email per player, and includes gary@cityofdelta.net. a tournament jacket, lunch, refreshments and tournament drawing. Breakfast burritos and snacks will be provided by the Phil Schmidt family. For more information, call Gary West at Bill Heddles Recreation CenMending Hearts is an adult support group. In the safety of a group and in an atmosphere of acceptance and understanding members talk about their feelings and �� concerns. As they share their experiences, mem�� bers help each other �� work through their feelings and come to terms �� with the new realities of life. Mending Hearts is �� a community service of HopeWest. Anyone can �� attend this group free of charge. �� The next session runs from Wednesday, Jan. �� 17, through Wednesday, March 21, 2 to 3:30 p.m. �� at 205 Stafford Lane, �� Delta. For more information �� on the groups below, please �� email adultsupport@hope westco.org or call (8740628.

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Mending Hearts offers support

Delta County Independent

ACTIVITIES

Wednesday, January 17, 2018

�� Dinner, sock hop support veterans ��

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Members of Lee Marts Veterans of Foreign Wars Post 3571 and its auxiliary encourage everyone to dig out their 1950s heirloom clothes. Why? The post and auxiliary members are hosting a chili supper and sock hop on Friday, Jan. 19. Plan on coming and reminiscing if you remember the

‘50s, and plan on coming and chuckling if you don’t — but plan on coming. Dinner will be from 5 to 7 p.m. at the Delta Elks Lodge, with the sock hop following from 8 to 11 p.m. This evening of dining and dancing is just $20. Also planned are a costume contest with prizes, a cake walk,

The 2018 Pea Green series is ready to occur concert to be held at the Saturday Night concert starting with the Jan. 27 Pea Green Community Center within the pastoral village of Pea Green. The Gypsy Jazz Social Club and the Buzzard Swamp String Band are A special open house join the Hubwheelers for scheduled to play their for upcoming square coffee, cookies and friend- favorite songs and tunes from 7-9 p.m. So bring dance lessons will be ship! hosted by the Delta HubCome and meet some a snack to share if you wheelers Square Dance of our square dancers, want to and come enjoy Club on Thursday, Jan. get details on the upcom25, from 6:30-8:30 p.m., ing classes, and learn at the Partners building, why square dancing is so 511 E. 10th Street, Delta. much fun for couples and This is a free event and families! For more inforeveryone is welcome to mation, call 835-3771.

Open house set for square dance newcomers

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a fun evening of music, food, an entertaining skit, and some old-time humor. The cost is one sawbuck ($10) at the door. The community center is located at the intersection of Hwy. 348 and Banner Road southwest of Delta. For more information, contact Len Willey at 874-8879.

Registration opens for spring soccer The City of Delta will be running the youth recreation soccer program. If you are interested in coaching, officiating, sponsoring or participating please contact Bill Heddles Recreation Center at 874-0923. Registration deadline for participants is Feb. 18. Practices will begin in mid-March. There will be two practices a week for one hour each (U6 may be less). Games will begin near the end of March or at the beginning of April. Games are played on some Thursday and Friday evenings and Saturdays. Six games will be played in Delta, Hotchkiss, Paonia, Orchard City and Olathe. All coaches are volunteers. Anyone interested in coaching a team is encouraged to call the recreation center. Referees are also need-

Fly tyers gather monthly Gunnison Gorge Anglers, the local chapter of Fly Fishers International and Trout Unlimited, is beginning monthly fly tying gatherings. The “Thirsty Thursday” gatherings begin at 6 p.m. Jan. 18 at 2 Rascals Brewing, 147 N. 1st Street, Montrose. This event is open to fly tyers of all experience levels and any non-tyers who are interested in hanging out and watching some thread get twisted around hooks. The “theme” for this gathering is winter midge patterns, so bring what you need to twist up your favorite pattern, and come prepared to share tips and techniques, especially with less experienced tyers.

ed. Officiating is a paid position; applications are available at Delta City Hall. For more information, contact Whitnee Lear at 874-0923 or whitnee@cityofdelta.net.

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Gypsy Jazz Social Club

Snowshoe back to the 1800s Historian/author guides tour through mining district The 20-mile-long Silverton Railroad from Silverton to Ironton over Red Mountain Pass was the best paying U.S. railroad per mile when it opened in 1889. The historic railroad ended up only running for a couple decades, but its path is still traceable today, along with the vestiges of the towns and mine sites it served. On Saturday, Feb. 10, a guided snowshoe tour through the Red Mountain Mining District will give guests a chance to better understand the area’s mining heritage and its impact on the San Juan Mountains, while exploring the backcountry. This annual, midwinter tradition is led by Ouray County Museum curator Don Paulson, who will share detailed stories about mining and mountain life over the last century and a half, as well as facts about the names of peaks and other geographical features along the route. A retired California State University professor, who led research projects and taught organic chemistry, he has always been interested in narrow gauge railroads and Colorado mining. He began coming to Ouray and researching the area’s history in the mid1970s, and moved here in 2006. “The winter scenery is beautiful and the struc-

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togethers, and will be the home of a military museum. All of these goals need community support, and this crazy trip back to the ‘50s will be an opportunity for you to help out while enjoying a “blast from the past.” For more information call auxiliary president Della Ware at 872-3327.

Pea Green concert series returns

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refreshments and a cash bar provided by the Elks. This gala event will be a fundraiser for the new building the post and auxiliary are working toward. This will serve as headquarters for assisting local veterans, will offer the community another place to gather for a family or club get-

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tures in the snow make for very outstanding photos. If you love history and being outdoors in the winter this is the trip for you,” said the tour guide, who has authored several books, articles and talks on the area’s history, including “Mines, Miners and Much More” published by Twain Press in July 2015. Tour guests will join him on cross country skis and snowshoes on a route that is about two miles each way on County Road 31 from Highway 550 to the Yankee Girl Mine. The area’s most prolific silver producer in the late 1800s, Yankee Girl’s head frame is an often-photographed, iconic structure and visible for miles across Red Mountain Pass. The head frame is the building on top of the 1,500-foot deep shaft that raised and lowered the ore and miners from the mine. Tour participants will also visit the site of the town of Guston, which has several photogenic buildings. “The tour

takes place at 10,000 feet so participants should be acclimated to the altitude. It can be taken by any age as long as you’re in good physical condition,” he said. The tour is organized by the Ouray County Historical Society and the Uncompahgre Watershed Partnership (UWP), a nonprofit protecting and restoring the Upper Uncompahgre Watershed. UWP has completed remediation projects to improve water quality in streams near abandoned mines, and helps organize the annual San Juan Mining & Reclamation Conference, among its many activities. UWP communications director Tanya Ishikawa said, “I’ve taken this tour twice now and can’t wait to get up there a third time. Snowshoeing is such a fun way to spend the day in the mountains, and I always meet interesting people on the trail. Plus, Don is truly a great interpreter of the past who makes history come alive.”

Square dance to be held Saturday night The Delta Hubwheelers Square Dance Club will host a regular dance on Saturday night, Jan. 20, 7-9 p.m., at the Bill Heddles Recreation Center, 531 N. Palmer Street in Delta. The dance will be directed by club caller Naaman Moorehouse. Come early for “Plus

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Workshop” at 6:30 p.m., with Moorehouse. Dances are “Mainstream” with “Plus” Tips. Round dances are to recordings. Bring refreshments to share during the evening. If coming from out of town, please call 835-3771 or 773-4495 to verify details.

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A8 Wednesday, January 17, 2018

BUSINESS

Delta County Independent

Referrals group supports area nonprofits At the Jan. 10 meeting of the We Are Referrals group, Julianne Garton with the Women’s Crisis Center (180 Ministries) group and Leslie Sparks with the Hilltop Domestic Violence Services each received a $500 donation.

Both organizations play a vital role in our community. 180 Ministries for Women/Women with Children (formerly House of Promise) serves women 18 years of age and older who struggle with substance abuse and want

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The Ideal You ��

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to find a new direction for their lives and their children’s lives. Women receive help with their personal and relationship issues, while their children participate in day care and preschool education. For more information, contact Garton at 970-323-6013. For 65 years, western Colorado has turned to Hilltop for compassionate and comprehensive human services. It puts people first and gives them the tools and support they need to face life’s challenges. Wideranging programs offer real world solutions designed to give people of all ages a chance at long-lasting success. Services include emergency safehouse, counseling and advocacy for those affected by domestic violence and sexual assault. For more information,

Chalmer Swain, owner of Taylor Funeral Service & Crematory, recently qualified for recertification of the designation of Certified Funeral Service Practitioner (CFSP) by the Academy of Professional Funeral Service Practice. Swain is a lifetime member of the academy. A number of professions grant special recognition to members upon completion of specified academic and professional programs; CFSP is the funeral service’s national recognition. The Academy of Professional Funeral Service Practice, since its 1976 founding, has had as its goals to recognize practitioners who have voluntarily entered into a program of personal and professional growth; to raise and improve the standards of funeral service; and to encourage

If you’ve resolved to lose weight in 2018, but you’re not sure how to get started, stop by The Ideal You clinic at 428 Main Street, Suite 101, in Delta. The Ideal Protein Weight Loss Protocol was written by a physician and contains two key components — weight loss and a healthier lifestyle so you can sustain your weight loss. “These two pillars, weight loss and lifestyle change, are at the heart of what makes our program

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Photo submitted

We Are Referrals, a group of local professionals, donated $500 each to 180 Ministries for Women/Women with Children (formerly House of Promise) and Hilltop Domestic Violence Services.

practitioners to make continuing education a lifelong process in their own self-interest, in the interest of the families they serve, and the community in which they serve. To initially receive this

award, the practitioner must complete a 180-hour program of continuing education activities and events. The practitioner is required to accumulate 20 hours per year to recertify. Credits are awarded

by the academy for work leading to personal and/ or professional growth in four areas — academic activities, professional activities, career review, and community and civic activities.

Deadline approaches for Rural Development grants The U.S. Department of Agriculture has set Jan. 26 as the deadline to apply for a fiscal year 2018 rural business development grant (RBDG). According to USDA: “RBDG is a competitive grant designed to support targeted technical assistance, training and other activities leading to the development or expansion of small and emerging private businesses in rural areas that have

fewer than 50 employees and less than $1 million in gross revenues. Programmatic activities are separated into enterprise or opportunity type grant activities.” Grants are issued to public entities which are in a position to promote business expansion rather than to individual private businesses. The average grant request in Colorado is $25,000 for technical assistance

or $50,000 for a revolving loan. Application forms are available upon request and applications must be postmarked on Jan. 26 or delivered to the Craig office by 4 p.m. on that date. For questions and assistance, applicants are encouraged to visit the website, or to call or email P.J. Howe, business program specialist, at 970-329-3151 or p.j.howe@co.usda.gov.

The Ideal You offers a personalized approach to weight loss and health maintenance

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7:30 a.m. at Brown & Camp law firm located at 550 Palmer Street. Presentations, training and networking are the focus of each one-hour meeting. For more information about this group, contact its president, Terry Camp, at 970-874-4451.

Know Your Neighbor

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Membership is limited to one type of professional or industry with that representative committed to referring and promoting other businesses in the group. The WAR group meets the first and third Wednesday mornings of each month starting at

Swain qualifies for recertification

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contact Sparks at 970252-7445. We Are Referrals group donates its membership fee proceeds annually to a charitable group or cause. The mission of We Are Referrals group is helping businesses grow — one referral at a time.

Jona Ely, FNP-C, DNP

daily requirement. Weekly unique,” said Jona Ely, United States.” Qualified patients are coaching and online tools FNP-C, DNP, owner of the put on a medically written, maximize success. new clinic in Delta. You can learn more about Ely is a family nurse prac- managed and supervised titioner who has specialized weight loss and mainte- this personalized approach in treating patients with nance protocol. Meals are to weight loss goals from diabetes and other related partially replaced with Ideal Kristi Thaute, who is in the metabolic syndrome health Protein products that are Delta office Monday and issues for over 25 years. made in a PharmLab in Can- Friday from 8 a.m. to 6 p.m. After following the “stan- ada and are FDA approved. and by appointment (970dard of care” for more than Created with a gourmet 399-3324). Kristi enjoys two decades, she came to chef, these products are low combining health, fitness realize that current treat- fat, low carb, low calorie and diet into a winning comment modalities are failing and preservative free. They bination, and looks forward miserably at impacting the are NOT high protein, but to developing relationships obesity and Type 2 diabetes incorporate highly absorb- with people who truly want able protein to meet the to change their lives. epidemic in this nation. In 2012, she was introduced to Ideal Protein and started The Ideal You Clinic in Craig. The business has expanded to Steamboat Springs, Meeker and now Delta. Ely said, “Since opening my first clinic I have seen so many patients improve their quality of life and their ability to engage in activities that they were never able to do before due to their health conditions. It has become my lifelong mission to share the power of this program and increase Kristi Thaute celebrated the grand opening of The Ideal You clinic in Delta last week. its availability across the

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NORTH FORK January 17, 2018

TIMES

Section

www.deltacountyindependent.com

The Nature Connection takes the next step BY TAMIE MECK Staff Writer

A Hotchkiss High School graduate and a U.S. Forest Service snow ranger have been selected to guide The Nature Connection through the process of implementing a $1.7 million Great Outdoors Colorado (GOCO) Inspire grant. Vince Galgano and Priscilla Williams were selected from a field of 27 applicants to lead The Nature Connection, also known as “the hub of outdoor education for Delta County and Olathe youth,” through implementation of the threeyear grant. “We are excited about these two talented individuals,” said acting director Anita Evans. With many qualified applicants from both within and outside of the area, “It was an intense and difficult choice that yielded a great result.” Evans describes Galgano has having “boundless energy and passion for getting kids connected to the outdoors.” “It’s my dream job in so many ways,” said Galgano, a 2000 Hotchkiss graduate who attended Columbia University and taught for more than 12 years at a private school in New York. He is also a former

school and state records holder in the 800-meter run. Running led him to a lifelong pursuit of outdoor physical activities, including cross country skiing and mountain biking. Galgano was also recently certified through USA Archery as a Level 2 instructor. “That will serve us well,” said Evans. In TNC’s original survey of students in 2015, archery topped the list of some 30 outdoor activities kids identified as wanting to pursue the most. Williams, a U.S. Forest Service snow ranger and education specialist with Grand Mesa, Uncompahgre and Gunnison National Forests, will officially begin her job as program director on April 1. Williams said she is “ready to help kids get connected to their back yard.” For the past three years Williams worked with TNC to grow its Skis for Kids program. The program gets youth out into the backcountry and offers affordable ski rentals through an extensive gear library. Each year she has taken on more responsibility with the program. “It’s been really successful,” said Williams. NATURE CONNECTION TO B2

Photo by Tamie Meck

Vince Galgano and Priscilla Williams were recently selected to lead The Nature Connection in implementing its $1.7 million Great Outdoors Colorado Inspire grant.

Meeting tonight focuses on Space to Create Initiative BY TAMIE MECK Staff Writer

Paonia man airlifted after being shot BY TAMIE MECK Staff Writer

According to Paonia Police Chief Neil Ferguson, at 8:46 p.m. Friday, Jan. 12, three Paonia police officers responded to the 300 block of Poplar Avenue on a report of a gunshot incident involving injuries. Officers transported the victim, identified on social media as Paonia resident Ryan Redifer, 54, to Paonia High School, where he was flown via CareFlight Colorado to St. Mary’s Medical Center in Grand Junction.

A female suspect was taken into custody, said Ferguson. The case remains under investigation, and there is no danger to the public, he said. Charges are pending. Ferguson said the Delta County Sheriff ’s Office assisted with the call, and the Paonia Volunteer Fire Department assisted in securing the landing zone at the high school. A GoFundMe page has been established to help cover Redifer’s medical expenses (www. gofundme.com/ryan-redifersmedical-expense-fund).

Flashing speed limit signs activated BY PAT SUNDERLAND Managing Editor

Three new radar signs have been installed on Highways 92 and 133 entering Hotchkiss. Town marshal Dan Miller intentionally delayed activating the electronic signs as he gathered data. “It has been interesting to learn that an average of 8,500 cars pass through town each day,” he noted in a written report to town trustees. He said 70 percent of those cars are traveling faster than the speed limit, most from 32

to 36 mph. “We even have speeds above 60 miles an hour passing the signs,” he added. The signs have now been activated and motorists can see the speed of their vehicle as they pass by. “Hopefully we will see a major reduction in speeding vehicles,” the marshal said. Town trustees, after reviewing the marshal’s report, noted that at the rate of 8,500 cars a day, three million vehicles pass through Hotchkiss every year.

Board petitions trickle in ahead of Jan. 22 deadline BY TAMIE MECK Staff Writer

As of Tuesday morning, the number of municipal election petitions taken out by citizens is enough to cover the number of vacancies being created by term expirations, but in Crawford and Paonia, the number of petitions returned falls far short of the expiring terms. Crawford town clerk Cally Gallegos reports that, as of Tuesday morning, eight petitions have been picked up at Town Hall. Crawford will have four trustee vacancies to fill. Incumbents Mike Tiedeman and Chris Johnson are seeking reelection, as is Jeff Peed, who was appointed to fill a vacancy last fall. As of Tuesday morning, said Gallegos, none of the eight petitions have been returned. In Paonia, the terms of four trustees are set to expire. As of Tuesday morning, six petitions have been picked up, two of them by incumbents, according to town clerk Corinne Ferguson. They

include mayor pro tem David Bradford and trustee Barry Pennell, who was appointed to the board last July, town treasurer Ross King, Mary Bachran, and Michael and Melissa Munoz. Samira Hart has submitted a completed petition, according to Ferguson. In Hotchkiss, petitions to run for mayor have been submitted by Larry Wilkening and current trustee Tom Wills. Mayor Wendell Koontz is term-limited under state statute. Petitions were picked up by Sheila Maki, Esther Koontz, and incumbents Mary Hockenbery and Pat Medina. All but one of the petitions has been returned, and the one outstanding petition is expected to be returned Wednesday, Jan. 17, according to deputy town clerk Ginger Redden. Those interested in being a candidate may still pick up and circulate a petition. Completed petitions are due at local town halls no later than Monday, Jan. 22.

A community meeting scheduled for 6:30 p.m. tonight at the Paradise Theatre will give the public an opportunity to learn more about Paonia’s participation in the Space to Create Initiative. The North Fork Valley Creative Coalition (NFVCC), the Town of Paonia, and Space to Create Colorado will host the meeting. They are collaborating with the Colorado Office of Economic Development, Colorado Creative Industries, the Department of Local Affairs, The Boettcher Foundation and Artspace to provide affordable workforce housing and work spaces for creative entrepreneurs living in the Paonia area. The free community meeting will offer a broad look at ArtSpace, a Minneapolisbased national nonprofit real estate developer of affordable housing for artists. Artspace is committed to creating affordable live and work spaces for artists, said NFVCC board president Susie Kaldis Lowe. To date, ArtSpace has created more than 40 projects across the country. The meeting will kick off with original songs by Paonia singer-songwriter Ellen Stapenhorst, followed by a short presentation on the Elsewhere

Studios “Inspired” project. A slide show presentation by Artspace will be followed by a Q&A session and discussion. “We really want audience participation,” said Lowe. “No question will go unanswered.” While it’s a community meeting, “It’s also a celebration of how far the organization has come through this competitive process,” said Lowe. Paonia was competing against “big hitters” including Carbondale and Crested Butte. Because they value what ArtSpace has to offer, those communities are moving forward with projects of their own, said Lowe. Carbondale recently hired ArtSpace to complete a feasibility study outside of the Space to Create Initiative. Paonia was selected for participation in Space to Create in December. The meeting, as well as a series of scoping sessions that are wrapping up today (Jan. 17), are part of the Phase I feasibility study portion of the initiative. The study asks people what they value in the community, said Lowe. Phase 2, which could begin as early as April, involves an Arts Market survey. A grant from The Boettcher Foundation, with matching funds from DOLA, will provide the roughly $65,000 cost of the

first two phases. ArtSpace will report its findings sometime in August, based on Ridgway’s experiences with the process. “From that we’ll know how to move forward into predevelopment,” said Lowe. Projects will be customized to fit the needs of the community, based on public input and information gathered during the two phases. As the first state-driven initiative for affordable housing for artists, “Colorado is doing something different,” said Lowe. “We’re only the third community, out of nine, to go through the whole process.” In terms of where funding will come from, how development will be paid for, “There’s still a lot of things to figure out.” Tonight’s meeting will provide an opportunity for comment. “We want the community’s input,” said Lowe. “We don’t want to come in and overlay something that doesn’t fit this place. We want something that represents this place, that is this place.” The meeting is expected to run about an hour and a half, depending on the level of participation. “It’s an opportunity to network, meet with friends, and get excited about the future of this community,” said Lowe.

Trash pickup prices increase in Hotchkiss BY PAT SUNDERLAND Managing Editor

As a result of a price increase at the county-operated landfill, trash rates are going up in Hotchkiss. Trash service is provided by Double J Disposal, which is in its third year of its current five-year contract with the town. The contract allows for rate increases if they can be justified; in this case, Double J cited a 43 percent in tipping fees being charged by the county. That increase took effect Jan. 1; Double J proposes to increase its rates on March 1. Town clerk Marlene Searle pointed out the increase proposed by Double J is about 15 percent, not the 43 percent it’s being charged. “If you vote to approve the increase, we will have to pass the cost on to our customers,” Searle added. “That fund can not absorb the increase; it’s simply an in-and-out account.” She added that Double J is increasing prices for all its customers, not just those in Hotchkiss. Once-a-week pickup will increase from $12.50 to $14 for residential pickup. Commercial prices are determined by the size of the dumpster. For the largest dumpster, prices will increase from $107 to $122 per month. Those prices

include a $2 monthly surcharge for the town’s administrative expenses. “We have to pass it along,” said trustee Mary Hockenbery. “They have to pay these fees and I don’t think $1.50 is that much. They’re just trying to recover their expenses.” Several council and staff members expressed their satisfaction with the service provided by Double J. Hockenbery said she’s also pleased the town is using a Delta County vendor. Trustees will consider a resolution formally adopting the new rates at their February meeting. In other business, trustees signed a memorandum of understanding to provide The Nature Connection with in-kind labor. The agreement formalizes work the town has already done on a bicycle pump track on property owned by the North Fork Pool, Park and Recreation District. After previously agreeing to allow ShadeScapes to plant up to three trees on Bridge Street, council members reviewed the application process. They decided to let Jo Edmondson, owner of ShadeScapes, proceed with the tree planting with the understanding the trees will be in a CDOT easement. Owens and several council members continue to have reservations about the advisability of plant-

ing trees in small concrete openings, although several trees have already been planted in the sidewalks on Bridge Street. Trustees decided the town’s tree ordinances should be tweaked before any more applications are approved. “We need to do a lot more research,” Searle said. In other business, Officer Chad Lloyd reported that the police department is “pretty sure” the juvenile involved in tagging buildings around town has been caught, thanks in part to citizen cooperation. “We want to let future taggers know that behavior won’t be tolerated in Hotchkiss,” he said. He added that the “Secret Santa” program provided for 16 families and over 25 children in Hotchkiss. Town Hall staff and the North Fork Ambulance partnered with the Hotchkiss Marshal’s Office to provide this service. Richard Bailey, organizer of the Hotchkiss Sheep Dog Camp Stock Trials, asked for and received a donation of $500 to support the May event. He said the funds will be used for added prize money. He also introduced Gordon Hebenstreit, who is taking over as volunteer coordinator. Volunteers who are interested in assisting with the event, now in its 15th year, are encouraged to contact Hebenstreit.

B2 Wednesday, January 17, 2018

NORTH FORK TIMES

Delta County Independent

Nature Connection FROM PAGE B1 Located on Bulldog Street between the Hotchkiss High School and the North Fork Pool, Parks and Recreation District office, TNC was founded during the 201415 school year to identify and break down the obstacles kids and their families face in getting outdoors. With the recent GOCO inspire grant, awarded Dec. 15, TNC will be expanding into an extensive gear library that will include mountain bikes, backpacking gear, fishing gear, archery equipment, stand-up paddle boards and inflatable kayaks, all of which will be available to area youth at affordable rates. This year they are working with Colorado Parks & Wildlife to expand water sports opportunities, and are creating between seven and 10 miles of mountain biking trails near Hotchkiss High School. Evans will remain with the program and assist Williams and Galgano in establishing already researched procedures that will ultimately benefit TNC kids through the implementation of the “place, program and pathway” developments that GOCO has invested in for

the area’s youth. Empowered by the GOCO Initiative, they, along with TNC’s 39 partner organizations, will collaborate to develop programming as outlined in the grant, and in ordering and organizing gear to assist in those programs. “These partners offer an amazing breadth of opportunities,” said Galgano. The hope is that kids find one or more activities that they can enjoy and build on. Places represent the shared recreational spaces of schools and communities and includes maintenance and new infrastructure that will provide educational and health-inspiring opportunities for all citizens. Programming represents not only the gear, transportation and guided local expertise that will ensure that outdoor traditions are passed on to the next generation, as well as the countywide curriculum and field trip offerings that ensure equal opportunities for all children. Finally, pathways represent connections between local businesses, organizations and partners and students and alumni. Building economic pathways will ensure

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that graduating seniors have the experience and skills to pursue a wide range of educational and outdoor career opportunities. Evans said she has received phone calls from several groups around the country, including from Ridgway, Oregon, New York and Wyoming, interested in hearing about developing gear hub and curriculum-aligned outdoor programming. “The Nature Connection is proving to be a model that others are seeking to emulate,” said Evans. “Pretty exciting stuff.” “TNC is celebrating a grant that will impact so much of this area while honoring all of the hard work that got them to this point,” said Galgano. “I am very grateful and honored that so many people did so much hard work” and have allowed him this opportunity.

Photo courtesy Town of Paonia

Bridge maintenance completed

Workers with Tribble & Sons Construction in Hotchkiss perform maintenance on the Samuel Wade Bridge in Paonia. The project, which was completed last week, involved stabilizing bridge caissons and ﬁlling them in with materials that protect the bridge, and that have washed away over the years.

Crawford updates its marijuana ordinance BY RANDY SUNDERLAND General Manager

The Town of Crawford adopted an ordinance at its Jan. 3 meeting, updating its regulations regarding the cultivation and possession of marijuana within the town limits. It reflects changes last year in the state’s laws regulating marijuana cultivation in residences. The ordinance noted that the town has prohibited commercial recreational and medical marijuana sales and medical marijuana as well as facilities for the cultivation or manufacture of marijuana related products. The Crawford ordinance details the various concerns of hazards and risks of using residential property for the cultivation of marijuana, creating a public hazard. Of concern is overburden of the home’s electrical system, creating a fire hazard; possible water damage and mold; noxious smells and odors that

impact others; retrofitting residents for largescale cultivation sites often results in significant damage to the structure, and could negatively impact property values; and cultivation sites can serve as targets for criminal activity. Because large-scale operations, as well as commercial sales, are prohibited, the ordinance focuses on personal use of marijuana, based on the provisions of state law. It is illegal for those under 21 to grow marijuana. For those 21 and older, they may have no more than six marijuana plants, with three or fewer being mature, flowering plants. Growing must take place in an enclosed, locked space, is not conducted openly or publicly and is not made available for sale. The ordinance defines the enclosed space as bounded by at least four walls and a roof, with a locking mechanism. This applies

to either inside the residence or outside on the property. The ordinance also provides that a person over 21 can transfer one ounce or less of marijuana without remuneration to a person who is also 21 or older. The consumption of marijuana cannot be conducted openly and in public, or in a manner that endangers others. Another provision of the ordinance makes it unlawful for any group of three or more persons to collectively cultivate, possess, process or transport more than 12 marijuana plants on any property in the Town of Crawford. Nearby residents can complain if the cultivation of marijuana causes dust, glare, heat, noise, noxious gasses, odor, smoke, traffic, vibration or other impacts.

Nuisance complaints are subject to injunction and abatement in an action in any “court of competent jurisdiction.” The council discussed that this includes district court, and does not require the town to establish its own municipal court. The ordinance also provides that the town can recover all costs, including reasonable attorney fees, incurred in successful prosecution of a nuisance complaint. Other penalties include a fine of not more than $999 or five days in jail, or both, per violation. Each day a violation of the provisions of the ordinance is deemed a separate offense. The full text of the ordinance was published in the Jan. 10 issue of the Delta County Independent.

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Photo by Tamie Meck

Spruce trees “Katherine” and “Gertrude” were plated by Clarence and Katherine Hutchinson and Furel and Gertrude Hutchins on Arbor Day, 1958, according to a plaque at the base of the trees. After several years without an ofﬁcial tree board, the Paonia board of trustees appointed four members to a newly-formed tree board.

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Four appointed to Paonia Tree Board

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BY TAMIE MECK Staff Writer

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Several years after it was disbanded, the Town of Paonia has resurrected the Paonia Tree Board. Four citizens, Roger Baril, Samira “Sam” Hart, Paula Martin and Tamie Meck were appointed by trustees to serve either a two- or three-year term on the Tree Board at the Dec. 12 town meeting. Mayor Pro Tempore David Bradford was appointed to represent the board of trustees on the Tree Board. He estimates the previous board was disbanded about seven years ago. In addition to prior tree board experience, he brings 34 years of experience with the U.S. Forest Service to the board. “Probably the number one duty of the Tree Board is to file the application for ‘Tree City USA’ designation with the Arbor Day Foundation,” said Bradford. Everything else the board does is dependent upon how board members wish to

contribute to the community. According to its website, the 501(c)(3) nonprofit Arbor Day Foundation was founded in 1972 and is now “the largest nonprofit membership organization dedicated to planting trees...” The Tree City USA program began in 1976 as a nationwide movement providing the “framework necessary for communities to manage and expand their public trees.” According to the foundation, healthy trees can help reduce energy costs, improve storm water management and erosion control, help cut energy consumption, boost property values, and build strong ties to neighborhood and community. “There are a lot of issues related to the trees, very serious issues, and it’s good to have folks step up to the plate,” said Mayor Charles Stewart. (Tamie Meck is a reporter for the Delta County Independent and the author of this article.)

NORTH FORK TIMES

Delta County Independent

Wednesday, January 17, 2018

KVNF honored for ‘building bridges’ BY TAMIE MECK Staff Writer

A 38-year-old nonprofit was honored on Martin Luther King Jr. Day for building bridges in the community. KVNF Community Radio was honored Monday evening with the Kids’ Pasta Project’s Building Bridges Service Award. KVNF was one of nine North Fork area nonprofit organizations considered for the award, which was inspired by Martin Luther King’s National Day of Service. KVNF Community Radio was founded in Paonia in 1979 and currently serves a 10,000square-mile area of Western Colorado. It’s driven by a small staff, an army of more than 70 volunteer DJs, and support from its membership and the greater community. KVNF Outreach Coordinator and volunteer DJ Ashley Crest accepted the award for the station and the KVNF board of directors, and read a letter from board president Pam Ellison. In considering the three questions that award selection is based on — how the organization strengthens community, empower individuals to serve the community, and serves to build bridges between different people and groups in the community, Ellison responded, “It occurred to me that the questions describe what KVNF is

trying to accomplish is in our mission statement.” KVNF strives to strengthen community through shared love of music, regional news, and public service programming, she explained. It empowers people to serve the community because it is largely run by volunteers, and builds bridges by partnering with other groups and nonprofits and through connecting people with the KVNF Community Calendar. Ellison called the questions “a blueprint for all of us nonprofits working together and creating community. Belonging to a group is something we all benefit from. It’s a human need. And giving of ourselves is very satisfying.” KPP is a nonprofit that since 2009 has empowered youth to serve their community by preparing and selling fresh, healthy meals, and giving the profit to local causes, while gaining valuable life skills. A selection committee of nine KPP youth members researched each organization to learn how they meet the criteria posed in the three questions. “And boy, is this community just filled with people who do that,” said Moni Slater, one of the founders of KPP. Also considered for this year’s award: The Paonia Senior Center has been building bridges for years. The

center serves seniors 60 and older and the disabled, offering nutritious meals at a low cost, meal delivery to the homebound, and social activities. They also welcome volunteers, and shuttle services are available. In addition to being the only movie theatre in the North Fork Valley, the community-owned Paradise Theatre not only shows great movies, it is host to film festivals and live performances and provides a venue for music and art. The Paradise also empowers others to share their artistic talents. Slow Food Western Slope is part of Slow Food USA and the global Slow Food network. It operates on the premise that food should be tasty, seasonal, local, fresh and wholesome, and that everyone deserves good nutrition in their diet. They invite others to make positive change in the world by making a change in their diet. The North Fork Valley Creative Coalition is one of 21 designated creative districts in the state and serves to foster economic growth in the area through the creative industries. NFVCC and the Town of Paonia are collaborating with others in the Space to Create Initiative to create affordable live/work space for the creative and working sectors of the community.

Photo by Tamie Meck

Surrounded by Kids’ Pasta Project members, Ashley Krest accepts the KPP Building Bridges Service Award Monday night on behalf of KVNF Community Radio. The award was inspired by Martin Luther King’s National Day of Service. Mountain Harvest Creative provides educational opportunities in arts and agriculture, help support the Arts for All after-school programs, empowers others to serve their community, and supports the mission of the annual Mountain Harvest Festival. The Nature Connection connects youth from Delta County and Olathe to nature and makes it more affordable through its gear library of outdoor equipment available to them and their families. In 2017, volunteers helped 4,000 area youth to participate in outdoor sports and activities. The Hotchkiss K-8 School’s Helping Hands Food Bank is a volunteer-

based organization providing foods to qualifying students for weekends and holidays. Each Friday, volunteers fill bags full of food for kids to take home for the weekend. The Learning Council supports lifelong learning and education as a resource for everyone. They strive to provide educational opportunities to people of all ages and abilities through community-building and cultivating the classical arts, agriculture and practical arts. The award dinner was held at ShadeScapes in Hotchkiss and was preceded by a five-course dinner featuring local foods, wines and donations from area businesses. The Strolling Scones

provided music. Jeff Schwartz, a KPP board member and coowner of Big B’s Juices, said he’s proud to represent the business sector. He thanked the businesses that support the event, KPP, and the many nonprofits in the area, calling their contributions vital to the success of the community. With so many nonprofits, businesses are often asked for donations of services, products and money, said Schwartz. “It is a real business decision.” But if businesses don’t give back to the community, events like the KPP dinners might go away. If that happened, he said, “Our children’s lives wouldn’t be as spectacular as they are.”

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Pickleball in January

Photo by Tamie Meck

North Fork area pickleball enthusiasts have been taking advantage of the warm winter weather by playing at the Apple Valley Park tennis courts. Pickleball players meet at the courts at 10 a.m. Tuesdays, Thursdays and Saturdays. They invite others to stop by and give pickleball a try.

Delta County 4-H council report The Delta 4-H County Council met on Jan. 8 at the Delta County Courthouse at 7 p.m. The following was discussed: – 4-H members must be enrolled to receive emails with information regarding upcoming events. – The fair board is still organizing for the 2018 year, information is forthcoming. – Beef weigh-in is Feb. 3 from 1-3 p.m. in Hotchkiss. No 4-H enrollments will be accepted at weigh-ins. Enrollment deadline is Jan. 26. Bring a bill of sale and brand inspection documents to the weigh-in. – The 4-H Beef Roast is right around the corner! Save the date for Sunday, March 4. In addition to the delicious smoked beef, there will also be

pork on the menu. Tickets are available from 4-H members and leaders. – To all 4-H clubs: please send your County Council representatives to the council meetings. Attendance is very important so that critical information can be relayed to the 4-H club members. Being well-informed gives you a much greater chance of having a successful 2018 4-H year. We wish Delta County a happy and prosperous New Year. As usual, thank you for your amazing support. See you at the Beef Roast! Drew Harris Delta 4-H County Council Reporter

The Friends of the Crawford Library will host their annual Cabin Fever Book Sale at Crawford Town Hall. You’ll find great prices on books and other materials Friday, Jan. 26, from 3 to 7 p.m. and Saturday, Jan. 27, from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. All proceeds benefit the Crawford Library.

Committee at 5:30 p.m. Wednesday, Jan. 17, at ShadeScapes, 130 E. Bridge Street. The meeting will start with a 30minute presentation by town trustee Tom Wills, to help the group more fully understand the Town of Hotchkiss Master Plan, as it applies to future downtown improvement.

Main Street committee Cabin Fever meets in Hotchkiss Book Sale The Hotchkiss Complanned in munity Chamber of Commerce is hosting a meetCrawford ing of the Main Street

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B4 Wednesday, January 17, 2018

NORTH FORK TIMES

Delta County Independent

What’s happening at your library? The Delta County Libraries offer many educational and entertaining activities and events for you and your family to enjoy. If you want to know what else your library is offering, please contact the library or visit the Delta County Libraries website at www.delta libraries.org. Cedaredge Storytimes. Storytimes for babies, tots and preschoolers are Thursdays starting at 10:30 a.m. Seed Sorting Party. Calling all volunteers, seed library supporters, and seed-sorting enthusiasts. Come help the Delta County Seed Library get ready for the 2018 spring season! Join us at Cedaredge Library for an evening of seed organizing and good company. Wednesday, Jan. 24, from 4 to 6:30 p.m. January StoryWalk®. “Cleo’s Christmas Party,” written and illustrated by Cedaredge High School gifted and talented students Jessica Craig, Grace Hatheway, Hannah Hatheway, Holly Jenkins, and Nevaeh Martinez, will be on display on the Surface Creek Trail during the months of December and January. Snowflake Maker Space. Come to the Cedaredge Library during the month of January and make a beautiful snowflake to take home. All supplies provided. All month during library

hours. Crafts Group. Crafters meet every Tuesday at 10 a.m. to share ideas and show and tell. Tech Soup Saturday. Bring your devices and your questions. Our expert “techies” will do their best to answer your questions. Every Saturday from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. Genealogy. Who’s Who in Whoville? Find out who you really are! The first Friday of every month from 10:30 a.m. to noon. Crawford Storytimes. Storytimes for babies, tots and preschoolers are Thursdays starting at 10:30 a.m. Contact the library at 399-7783 for details. Cabin Fever Book Sale. Friends of the Crawford Library host their annual Cabin Fever Book Sale at Crawford Town Hall. Great prices on books and other materials. Proceeds support Crawford Library. Friday, Jan. 26, from 3 to 7 p.m. and Saturday, Jan. 27, from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. Tech Help. Librarians will be available to help you with questions and problems about computers or mobile devices. Wednesday through Saturday by appointment. Contact the library at 399-7783 for details. Delta Storytimes. Storytimes for babies, tots and preschoolers are Wednesdays starting at 10:30 a.m. Contact the library

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at 874-9630 for details. Vision Boards. Start the new year out right! Create a vision board! Identify your vision and give it clarity. Reinforce your daily affirmations. Keep your attention on your intentions. Focus on things you want to happen in your life. Use this multi-media project as a way to set your New Year’s resolution in a fun, creative way. All supplies provided. Saturday, Jan. 27, at 11 a.m. Teen Game Night. Board games and card games will be available in the teen area every Wednesday in January at 4 p.m. Bucket Bands and Rhythm Jams. Participants will explore basic rhythm patterns and play a variety of drums and other percussion instruments. Ideal for third, fourth and fifth graders. Pre-registration is not required, but there are a limited number of openings for each class. It is not necessary to attend every session. Wednesday, Jan. 10, 17, 24 and 31, at 4:30 p.m. Saturday, Jan. 13, 20 and 27 and Saturday, Feb. 3, at 10:30 a.m. Call the library at 8479630 for more details. Build a Snowman Maker Space. Build a snowman using marshmallows and toothpicks. All supplies provided. All month long during library hours. Winter Scavenger Hunt. Locate snowflakes with favorite book titles in the children’s area. All month long during library hours. Genealogy One-onOne. Get the help you need researching your genealogy in this ongoing class taught by Mickey Watts. Meets the second and fourth Monday of each month at 5 p.m. Talk & Tangle Yarn. This is a group of knit and crochet enthusiasts who get together to talk and work on their individual projects. Anyone is welcome to join. Mondays starting at 5:30 p.m. Hotchkiss Storytimes. Baby, tot and preschooler storytimes are Wednesdays starting at 10:30 a.m. Contact the library at 399-7781 for details. Around the World. Travel the world and explore a different country every month. Join us for stories, games, recipes and activities from around the globe. The fourth Tuesday of the month October through March. All ages welcome. Tuesday, Jan. 23, at 4 p.m. What is Raspberry Pi? Code Academy Presents: What is Raspberry Pi? Teens are invited to come to the Hotchkiss Library to explore computer operating systems. Snacks provided. Wednesday, Jan. 24, at 5 p.m. Seed Sorting Party. Calling all volunteers, seed library supporters and seed-sorting enthusiasts! Come help the Delta County Seed Library get ready for the 2018 spring season. We need your help sorting, organizing and labeling seeds for this coming gardening season. Join us at Hotchkiss Library for an evening of seed organizing, good company and tasty treats. Tuesday, Jan. 30, from 4 to 6 p.m. Winter Wonderland Maker Space. Enjoy making your own unique winter creations with an assortment of craft items provided by the library at our maker space table. All month long during library hours. Hotchkiss Book Club. Hotchkiss Book Club meets the third Thursday of each month at 3 p.m. October through June. The book club will discuss, “The House of Seven Gables,” by Nathaniel Hawthorne on Thursday, Jan. 18, at 3 p.m. Tech Help. Librarians will be available to help you with questions and problems about com-

puters or mobile devices. Tuesday–Thursday by appointment, 399-7781. Paonia Storytimes. Baby, tot and preschooler storytimes are Tuesdays starting at 10:30 a.m. Contact library at 399-7881 for details. Knit Crochet Day. Enjoy the camaraderie of fellow knitters and crocheters; share projects and browse our library of craft books for use or purchase. Always tea and cookies too! Saturday, Jan. 20, from noon to 1:30 p.m. Paonia Reads ... Again! Did you read the book? Then come to the Paradise Theatre for a free showing of the movie on Sunday, Jan. 21, at 3 p.m. A guided discussion will follow the movie. Armchair Travel. The Odyssey with Laura Lee. Join Paonia Library staff member Laura Lee Yates as she relives her overseas travel researching her new historical novel. After flying into London, she experienced the Outer Hebrides of Scotland, the west coast of Ireland, Andalusia in

Spain, and the walled city of Fes in Morocco. Tuesday, Jan. 23, at 6 p.m. Library Lab: Movie Makers Club. Learn how to direct and produce a short film to submit for the 2018 Teen Video Challenge. This year’s theme: Libraries Rock! For teens age 13-18. The video will explore the importance of music in our daily lives and how libraries help us use, appreciate and understand music. Thursday, Jan. 25, from 4 to 5 p.m. Snap Circuit Maker Space. Have fun learning all about electronics with snap circuits. All month long during library hours. Seed Sorting Party. Calling all volunteers, seed library supporters, and seed-sorting enthusiasts! Come help the Delta County Seed Library get ready for the 2018 spring season! Saturday, Jan. 27, from noon to 1 p.m. Tech Café. Tech assistance for all ages and skill levels. Every Wednesday from 2 to 4 p.m. Literacy Program High School Equivalency. For information on high school equivalency classes or HISET test-

Quilt winner

ing, please contact Gail Srebnik at 399-7670 or gsrebnik@deltalibraries. org. ESL Classes. An intermediate to advanced ESL class meets at Delta Family Center Mondays through Thursdays from 12:15 to 3 p.m. Contact Danielle at dcarre@deltalibraries. org for more information. A class for all levels is offered at Hotchkiss Library starting in January. Contact Ann at astewart@deltalibraries. org for more information. Para obtener más información en español, por favor llame a Adriana al 970-874-9630 o por correo electrónico a achavira@deltalibraries. org Distance Learning Program. Do you need your high school equivalency but are unable to attend our classes? Delta County Libraries now has a distance learning program that offers participants the ability to work from home with an online program to prepare for the test. Contact Ann Stewart at astewart@deltalibraries. org for more information.

Photo submitted

Mel Marty, the winner of the S&B Quilters 2017 rafﬂe quilt, “Santa Baby,” is pictured with her children, Henry, 7, and Evie, 9. They live in Northglenn. Proceeds from this annual rafﬂe go toward veterans quilts and other charity quilts, as well as educational quilt classes.

Red Hatters celebrate ‘reduation’ of Mollie Young On Dec. 14 the Red Hat Hotchkiss Ladybugs chapter threw a party at the Old Mad Dog Cafe in Crawford. During the party, chapter members held a “reduation” ceremony, similar to a graduation, of Mollie Young from a Pink Hatter to a bonafide Red Hatter in honor of her turning 50. The party was hosted by Gigi Deegan. Red Hatters also celebrated Christmas. In addition to Young and Deegan, in attendance were Queen Carole McDaniel, Vi Jeffrey, Sue Sidebottom, Bonnie Eisenberg, Mary K. Eversman, Sandi Median and Beverly Owens. The Red Hats are an international society and playgroup created to connect likeminded women, make new friends and enrich lives through the power of fun and friendship. Members 50 and older wear red hats and purple clothing, while those younger than 50 wear pink hats and lavender clothing. Queen Carole recited this poem while putting a red hat, a gift from the chapter, on Mollie’s

Photo submitted

Queen Carole McDaniel places a red hat on the head of Mollie Young as she reads a poem in celebration of Mollie’s “reduation.” head and draping a purple shawl over her pink and lavender pink hatter clothes. “No longer is 50 a birthday to dread But cause for celebration instead. And so we salute a former Pink Hatter as we proudly exclaim that Red Hatters matter. Now gather ye round and join hand in hand,

and ask that our sister, Mollie, please stand as I carefully lift her pink hat from her head to replace it today with a chapeau of red. We shall drape purple over her shoulder, the color we wear as we grow older. Reduation complete, we announce that Mollie’s ready to come with the big girls and play!”

Photo submitted

The Red Hat Hotchkiss Ladybugs chapter met at the Old Mad Dog Cafe in Crawford to celebrate Christmas and the “reduation” of Mollie Young.

SPORTS

Delta County Independent

SPORTS January 17, 2018

Wednesday, January 17, 2018

www.deltacountyindependent.com

Delta girls lose, win weekend hoop tilts

outscored Gunnison (0-1, 4-5) 19-7 to take a 31-13 halftime lead. Last weekend’s basketSecond-half play saw ball games were a mixmuch of the same offenture of ups and downs for sive disparity with Delta Delta High School’s girls. scoring 20 points and On Friday, Montrose visGunnison 12. ited the Panthers and Junior Missa Webb refused to give any quarheld the hot hand with ter for the first eight mineight points in the third utes of the game. The quarter and a total of Indians executed their 12 for the game to lead offense to perfection to Delta scorers. Geddes finroll to a 19-2 lead and ished with 11 points and then held on to register junior Jenna Sutliff had a 43-32 non-conference nine. Hayden Powers had win. seven points to lead GunOn Saturday the Pannison shooters. thers rebounded with Delta won the junior solid efforts at both ends varsity contest, 44-34, of the court for a big 51-25 behind freshman Marci decision conference win Schaal’s 16 points, sophoover the visiting Gunnimore Sarah Bules’ 12 and son Cowboys. Photo by Wayne Crick freshman Alexa Huff ’s 10 Montrose 43, Delta 32 counters. Rianne Prosser Delta senior Logan Freed (4) keeps an eye on the ball and his Montrose oppoTwo free throws from scored 10 points to pace nent last Saturday. The Indians used Kade Terrell’s big ﬁrst quarter to build a junior Jenna Sutliff lead that Delta couldn’t quite overcome in a 49-43 win for Montrose. Gunnison’s offense. were the only points the Delta has a busy week, Montrose defense allowed which began on Tuesday in an opening quarter run with Cedaredge. The rest of 19-2. Janey Alex scored of the week features the eight of her game-high 12 Panthers against Tellupoints in the period. ride (0-3, 1-7 2A District The Panthers rebound3) on Friday at 6 p.m. ed to stabilize any furand a visit from Basalt ther widening of the scor(0-0, 3-7) on Saturday (4 ing differential with a ter with a furious Delta set the tone for the rest BY WAYNE CRICK p.m.). 10-7 second quarter and rally cutting the deficit of the game. DCI Sports Editor Freed’s 11-point effort A huge first period to three (36-33) after a in the first period helped from Montrose senior 13-3 run. A final period score of him become the game’s Kade Terrell was instrumental in propelling the 13-10 moved Montrose’s leading scorer with 18 Indians to a 49-43 non- win to a six-point advan- points. Carmichael finished the game with 11 conference basketball tage, 49-43. Delta coach Rob Ames points. win in Delta last FriDelta’s defensive effort day night. Terrell tossed was excited following in 14 points (including the game. After taking a against Gunnison was four three-point goals) deep breath, Ames quot- superb as the Cowboys enabling Montrose to ed, “Boy, that was fun! were unable to score a take a 16-7 lead to the They (Panthers) played double-digit number in their tails off. This feels any of the four quarters second quarter. Saturday’s encounter like a win instead of a played. Braden Wood’s six with 3A league foe Gun- loss!” Senior Logan Freed points were the most nison was much more enjoyable for the Pan- elevated his game in the scored by a Gunnison thers as they rolled to a second half and scored 10 player. Gunnison built a dou53-22 decision to earn a of his team-high 12 points split in hardwood action and sparked a spirited ble-digit lead in junior comeback effort by the varsity action but had over the weekend. Montrose 49, Delta 43 Panthers. Senior Jaspar to hang on to pull off a Kade Terrell came out Carmichael was next 50-45 win. Delta trailed shooting against the Pan- high with 10 points and 38-25 going to the fourth thers on Friday and hit Andrew Baier finished quarter and used a 20-12 run before falling short four treys to set Delta with eight counters. Delta’s junior varsi- by five points. on its heels early. A stout Hunter Hughes scored Montrose defense, and ty claimed a 59-49 win some inaccurate shoot- with Nate Workman’s eight points in each of ing, led to the one-sided 14 points leading the the second and fourth score after one period way. Teammates Hunter quarters on his way to Photo by Wayne Crick of play. Terrell finished Hughes (13) and Rowyn a game-high 19 points. Delta junior Missa Webb sprints to cut off Montrose’s Janey Alex during game with five 3s in the first Carmichael (12) were also Nate Workman finished action last Friday in Delta. While the Indians were making plays and shots, half and scored 17 of his double-digit scorers for with 10. Braden Wood Delta struggled offensively to make shots from outside the free throw lane game-high 24 points in the winners. Montrose’s had 16 to lead Gunnison’s Autin Martinez was the offense. the first half. and eventually fell 43-32 to the Indians. Delta played Montrose stayed effec- game’s leading scorer Cedaredge on Tuesday tive offensively in the with 22 points. second quarter with 17 Delta 53, Gunnison 22 (Jan. 16) and will host Following Friday’s loss Telluride’s Miners on Fripoints with the Panthers staying close with 13 to Montrose, the Panthers day at 7:30 p.m. Basalt wanted to establish their brings the Longhorns to counters of their own. The Indians’ 13-point intentions early, and did town on Saturday for a halftime lead dwindled so with a 20-6 spurt in 5:30 p.m. (varsity) conrapidly in the third quar- the opening quarter to test.

BY WAYNE CRICK DCI Sports Editor

trailed 26-12 at halftime. Delta outscored the Indians 20-17 in the second half but could not erase the huge lead Montrose had established in the first quarter. “It wasn’t that we didn’t play well technically; we couldn’t make a shot,” noted Delta head coach Kyle Crowder. Delta did finish nine of 15 from the free throw line but missed a ton of shots outside the paint all game long. Aubrey Jones was Delta’s leading scorer with 10 points. Montrose won the junior varsity contest 3217. Delta 51, Gunnison 25 Delta, 2-0 and 6-2, got back on the winning side of the ledger with a big win at home against the Cowboys. Sophomore Sara Geddes scored seven of her 11 points for the Panthers in the first quarter helping Delta roll to a 12-6 advantage after one quarter. The Panthers stepped up their offensive output in the second quarter and

Delta boys lose to Indians, beat Cowboys

Photo courtesy Dwight Siverson

Paonia guard attempts a jump shot in the Eagles’ 54-37 win Saturday over Paonia’s Andi Todd, front, and Mckenna Palmer defend against Hayden’s Joe Hayden’s Tigers. Deckler in Paonia’s 39-19 win Saturday at Hayden.

B6 Wednesday, January 17, 2018

SPORTS

Delta County Independent

Cedaredge girls stay unbeaten in hoops BY WAYNE CRICK DCI Sports Editor

It was a rough, but rewarding, road trip to Rangely for the Cedaredge girls’ basketball team. The play was physical and a win made it all the more special. “Rangely is a tough out ... they play hard and made it pretty physical in the second half. They will be tough in that 2A league,” reported girls coach Ryan Hilbig. The Bruins (0-0, 8-0) had the mojo in the first half and took advantage for a 23-11 halftime lead. Rangely (2-1, 8-3 2A District 5) held a slight advantage offensively

with a 23-20 edge in the second half of play. One of the highlights of the game was the number of free throws attempted in the game. Cedaredge beat a path to the charity stripe for 39 attempts and made 18 of them, with Courtney Freeman canning eight of 10. Rangely’s Katelyn Brown was the go-to player for the Panthers. She had a rented space at the free throw line and spent quite a bit of time there shooting 14 times and making 12 of her attempts. Ten of her free throws came in the fourth quarter. Her 15

points represented gamehigh scoring numbers. The Panthers finished with 18 attempted free throws in the game. Freeman’s 12 points topped Cedaredge scorers with Grace Andrews sharing the scoring light with 11 points. Andrews led the Bruins with 10 rebounds while Jade McGovern grabbed eight boards and Addison Schwarz pulled down another seven caroms. Cedaredge made the short trip to Delta on Tuesday (Jan. 16) for a conference tilt and is at home on Saturday to face another league foe, Coal Ridge (0-0, 4-5).

Photo by Wayne Crick

The Cedaredge girls basketball team talks over strategy during the title game of the First Colorado National Bank Tournament on Dec. 16, 2017. Cedaredge battled past Rangely last weekend to post an 8-0 overall mark and 2-0 in the 3A WSL.

Bruin boys win 64-63 hoops game in Rangely BY WAYNE CRICK DCI Sports Editor

A trip to Rangely over the weekend proved to be an exciting adventure for Craig Cerise’s Cedaredge Bruin boys basketball team. The Bruins and Panthers were involved in a back-and-forth ballgame for much of the night with the outcome in doubt until the end. Cedaredge held a onepoint advantage at the conclusion of the first and second quarters to take a 26-24 lead to halftime. Rangely earned a three-point edge after a 22-17 third quarter run to set up a wild finish in Rangely. Coach Cerise sent a detailed report of the final quarter. “The game Photo by Wayne Crick was back-and-forth Cedaredge’s Peter Carlson goes high for a score against Delta in the First Colo- until the fourth quarrado National Bank Tournament on Dec. 16, 2017. ter when, at one point,

Rangely took an 11-point lead. With 1:20 left in the game we (Cedaredge) were still down by eight points. After some stops, and made baskets, we had cut their (Rangely’s) lead to two points with 34 seconds left. Jacob Lewis hit a 3-point shot with about 14 seconds left in the game for a one-point lead. Jared Reynolds was called for a foul on a Rangely drive. After a time out, the Rangely player hit both shots of a one-and-one to take a one-point lead. With 10 seconds left, Peter Carlson dribbled the length of the court and hit a runner off the glass from just to the right of the key with four seconds left to give us a one-point win.” According to Cerise, “The gym was filled with people and very loud. It was a good environment

and experience for us to play in.” Cedaredge’s Carlson was the game’s leading scorer with 26 points and he finished with 13 rebounds, four assists and four blocks for the Bruins. Reynolds had 13 points and seven rebounds with Baylee Piper scoring 12 points and grabbing six caroms. Lewis scored 10 points and added eight rebounds for the winners. Kobe Broome had 17 points to pace Rangely’s offense. Other Panthers scoring double digits included Cameron Filfred (16), Devin Ramirez (15) and Patrick Scoggins (13). The Bruins (0-0, 5-3) played Delta (1-1, 6-2) on Tuesday and are scheduled to meet Coal Ridge (0-0, 6-2) on Saturday at 3:30 p.m.

Eagles squeeze out dual win over No. 1 Cedaredge BY TAMIE MECK DCI Sports Writer

In a battle between the two top teams in Class 2A On the Mat rankings, No. 2 Paonia defeated No. 1 Cedaredge Thursday night, 39-33. Of the 13 matches wrestled, four were won by decision. The dual opened at 120, with number one ranked Bruins freshman Trey Geyer pinning Soul Connelly in 1:49. At 126, No. 2 ranked sophomore Sean Dale battled a full three periods against eighth-ranked sophomore Zeb Etter, with Dale winning by a 6-3 decision. At 132, Caden Meilner pulled off one of the biggest upsets of the night, defeating fourthranked Bruins senior Alex McCracken, by a 9-7

decision. After three periods the match was tied at 7-7, with Meilner scoring a takedown 15 seconds into first-round overtime for the win. Paonia trailed, 9-3. In the shortest fall of the dual, at 138, topranked junior Sackett Chesnik pinned freshman Cameron Quick in 22 seconds, tying the score at 9-9. Paonia took the lead when No. 4-ranked Paonia senior Clay Campbell scored six points on a 36-second fall over ninthranked Bruins senior David Schippman to win the 145-pound match. In one of the most competitive matches of the night, Bruin Colton Hoerr was the lower ranked of the two heading into the

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

152-pound match against Eagle Grey Neal, but walked off the mat with a 7-4 win. At 160, Eagle Jesse Burns, ranked ninth in the state, fought hard in his loss to third-ranked junior Jared Hulteen. Burns tied the match up at 4-4, on a takedown 20 seconds into the final period. Hulteen escaped and was leading, 5-4, when he pinned Burns at 5:03. Anthony Felice won the 170 match on a thirdperiod fall over Drew Markley. Head coach Nate Wiggins called Felice’s win “outstanding.” Felice almost didn’t wrestle because he was sick. “I know he’s gonna get it done if I put Felice out there,” said Wiggins. Freshman Anthony Miller won the 182-pound match by fall over Toby Waddell, giving Paonia a 33-18 lead. “Miller comes out and gets it done again,” said Wiggins. “We put him out there to win a dual and he gets it

done.” At 220, No. 2 Bruin Taj Van der Linde won by injury over No. 3 Cyrus Malek-Madani, who was leading, 2-1, after ending the first period with a takedown. The Eagles clinched the dual win when heavyweight sophomore Levi Peterson pinned Bruin Derek Sanchez in the first round, giving Paonia a 39-24 lead with two matches remaining. Wrestling ended at 106, with a 7-2 decision in favor of Bruins freshman Sam Campbell over Eagles freshman Reagan Todd. Bruin Ryan Imhoff won by forfeit at 113. Heading into this week’s competition, Cedaredge remains in first place in On the Mat rankings, followed by Rocky Ford, Paonia, Wray and Hotchkiss. Fowler, John Mall, Soroco, Norwood and Sedgwick County/Fleming complete the list and round out the top-10 teams in the state.

Photo by Tamie Meck

Juniors Sean Dale, left, and Zeb Etter vie for control in the 120-pound match between No. 1 ranked Cedaredge and No. 2 Paonia. Dale won the match by decision, and Paonia won the dual, 39-33.

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Photo by Tamie Meck

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

Paonia heavyweight Levi Peterson works toward a pin over Derek Sanchez of Cedaredge Friday night in Paonia’s 39-33 dual win over Cedaredge. Cedaredge and Paonia were ranked ﬁrst and second in state Class 2A On the Mat rankings.

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Chesnik wins gold in Utah

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BY TAMIE MECK DCI Sports Writer

Photo by Tamie Meck

In the 220-pound match, Cyrus Malek-Madani scores a takedown against Taj Van der Linde of Cedaredge. The match went to Van der Linde after Malek-Madani was injured.

Junior Sackett Chesnik wrestled to a 5-0 record and a first-place finish Saturday at the 45th annual Tournament of Champions at Vernal, Utah. Paonia was one of eight teams from Western Colorado competing in

the tournament. In quarterfinals Chesnik, who wrestles at 138, defeated Moffat County’s No. 2 ranked Daniel Caddy by a 6-3 decision. In semifinals Chesnik won by 4-2 decision over Cade Bowring, a 29-7 wrestler from Juab, Utah. CHESNIK TO B7

SPORTS

Delta County Independent

Wednesday, January 17, 2018

Bruins 4th at Centennial Invite BY TAMIE MECK DCI Sports Writer

The Cedaredge Bruins, who have been at the top of the state 2A rankings since late December, scored 144.5 points to place fourth Saturday at the Bulldog Invitational at Centennial High School in Pueblo. The Bruins were the highest placing team among small schools,

finishing behind Dumas (Texas) with 213.5 points, and Class 4A Grand Junction Central (154 points) and Pueblo South (145 points). Twenty-one teams competed at the tournament. Cedaredge sent eight wrestlers into the championship round and won two gold medals and one silver.

Freshman Trey Geyer and sophomore Sean Dale both won their championship matches, scoring a combined 55 points for Cedaredge along the way. Wrestling at 120, Geyer (21-2) won the championship match by an 113 major decision over 20-9 Kristian Arguello, a sixth-ranked wrestler from Pueblo South. Geyer also defeated Arguello in

December to place third at the Warrior Classic. Dale, who received a first-round bye, pinned his three opponents in a total of 4 minutes, 53 seconds, and won the title match over 21-6 sophomore Emilio Chavez of Mead in 43 seconds. Taj Van der Linde won silver at 220 pounds. Three Bruin wrestlers placed fifth. Alex

McCracken placed fifth on a 4-2 win over a 17-9 wrestler from Dumas in the championship round. Junior Jered Hulteen placed fifth on a win over Dumas. In quarterfinals, Hulteen had the shortest technical fall of the tournament, outscoring his opponent, 15-0, in 1:59. Junior Drew Markley was seeded 15th and fin-

ished fifth. Adrien Nieto (113) was seeded 11th and placed sixth. Also placing sixth was Colton Hoerr (152), whose opening round, 14-second pin was tied for the fastest fall of the tournament. Sam Campbell (106), Ryan Imhoff (113), Toby Waddell (182), and Derek Sanchez) scored team points for Cedaredge.

Delta 3rd at Summit swim meet the Summit Invitational on Saturday, Jan. 13. The Delta High School’s Panthers placed third out swim team traveled to of five teams with 141 Frisco to participate in points. Glenwood Springs

BY WAYNE CRICK DCI Sports Editor

Screamin’ Eagle this Saturday BY TAMIE MECK DCI Sports Writer

The annual Screamin’ Eagle wrestling tournament returns to Paonia High School this Saturday. Twenty-two teams, including Delta, Cedaredge, Hotchkiss and Olathe, registered for the tournament. At least 10 of the teams compete in Class 2A. Not all of the schools will bring full teams, said head coach Nate Wiggins. The tournament will feature four mats, split between the main and auxiliary gymnasiums. While that means some running back and forth, it makes it safer for wrestlers by keeping the mats away from the walls, said Wiggins. On Friday night Paonia

will dual West Grand at 6 p.m. The Screamin’ Eagles Peewee tournament, featuring pre-kindergarten through eighth-grade wrestlers from throughout the county and the region, happens all day Sunday. “We usually get about 400 kids,” said Wiggins. During both tournaments the Paonia High School class of 2018 will be selling raffle tickets for a 20- and a 110-quart Yeti cooler. Tickets are $2 each or six for $10. (Tickets will also be sold at Friday night’s dual and at the Paonia-Hotchkiss basketball games on Thursday.) The drawing happens Sunday during the peewee tournament, and winners need not be present.

Olathe’s Clay Yarnell 4-1 at Mel Smith meet BY TAMIE MECK DCI Sports Writer

Olathe Pirates junior Clay Yarnell was 4-1 for the tournament and placed second on a 9-0 loss to Berthoud’s No. 4 ranked wrestler. Yarnell

advanced to semifinals on a quarterfinal, 3:04 pin over No. 2 seeded Oswaldo Nunez of Brush (21-6). Yarnell’s 24-second pin in the opening round was the eighth fastest fall of the tournament.

Church wins, Horn 6th at Mel Smith tourney BY TAMIE MECK DCI Sports Writer

Logan Church won two matches by technical fall and pinned his final opponent to win the heavyweight title at the annual Mel Smith Invitational at Florence. Church’s second-round 17-1 win by technical fall was the second fastest technical fall of the tournament. In the championship match, Church, who was seeded first in the tournament, pinned sixthranked Connor Balliet of Berthoud in 1:59. Drake Horn was 4-3 at

the two-day tournament. Horn, who is ranked seventh in the state, lost in the fifth-place match by a 1-0 decision over fourthranked Abe Leonard of Elizabeth. Thirty-two teams competed at the tournament, which included eight of the top 10-ranked Class 3A teams in the state. Cody Sauve (138) was 3-2 for the tournament and scored eight team points. Aiden Barrios (170) and Gauge Lockhart (220) also scored team points for the Panthers in Florence.

won the team title with 418 points. The following results include Delta High School swimmers listed in the top 10 finishes at Saturday’s meet in Summit. Summit High School won the 50 yard freestyle in a time of 27.20 and Delta’s Kendra Hillman placed second in a time of 27.60. Summer Young was ninth (32.58). The 100 yard freestyle winner was also a Summit athlete who had a winning time of 1:01.43. Delta’s Jordan Tamayo was seventh with a time of 1:09.76. A Glenwood Springs athlete won the 100 yard backstroke race with a time of 1:06.56 and Delta’s Olivia McCrackin placed third with her time of 1:13.10. Delta had two top 10

placers in the 100 yard breaststroke. Hillman finished third in a time of 1:20.44 while Abby Williams was fifth (1:26.30). The winning time was 1:13.10. In the 200 yard freestyle race, Glenwood Springs had the winning swimmer with a time of 2:09.87. Delta’s Ashley LaHoe was ninth in 2:54.17. The 200 yard individual medley race was won by a Glenwood Springs athlete (2:49.27) and McCrackin placed sixth (2:49.27) and Hailee Ruble was ninth. Kalinn Komives and Haylee Chamblin finished fifth and sixth, respectively, in the 500 yard freestyle race. Glenwood Springs had the winning swimmer in this event (5:56.75).

The Panthers had two teams place in the top five in the 200 yard medley relay. Glenwood Springs won the event with Delta finishing third (2:19.12) and sixth (2:31.91). Delta also placed two teams in top five finishes

in the 400 yard freestyle relay, won by Glenwood Springs in 4:17.10. One Delta team finished fifth (5:27.42) and the second one was sixth (6:09.30). Delta hosts an invitational meet on Saturday, Jan. 20, beginning at 10 a.m.

Vanvleets score wins in Snake River Pentathlon BY TAMIE MECK DCI Sports Writer

Paonia High School alumna Ashley Vanvleet, a sophomore member of the Idaho State University Bengals track team, won her first title of the season. Vanvleet scored 3,413 points to win the pentathlon at the Snake River Open, held Jan. 12 and 13 in Pocatello, Idaho. According to an article on the ISU Bengals website, Vanvleet scored in high jump and shot put “with marks of 5-3.75” and 36’0.25” respectively, and finished second in the long jump and third in the 60-meter hurdles

with a time of 9.84 seconds. She also completed the 800-meter run in 2:30. Her long jump mark of 17-2.25” “is a personal best by almost 18 inches,” according to Bengals coach Hillary Merkley. Vanvleet, a 2016 graduate of PHS, medaled at state in multiple individual and relay events. Her sister, freshman Brianna Vanvleet, cleared 17’3.75 to win the long jump, and placed fourth overall in the women’s pentathlon with a score of 2,985. Brianna is a 2017 graduate of PHS. She holds the 2A state record in the long jump.

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Photo by Tamie Meck

Paonia High School Alumnae, Ashley Vanvleet, bottom clearing the high jump at 5-2, and sister Brianna Vanvleet, top photo, winning the state long jump last May, now compete for the Division 1 Idaho State University Bengals’ track team. The two recently placed ﬁrst and fourth, respectively, in the pentathlon at the Snake River Open.

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ACADEMIC Cele brating stu dents with a cade mic excellence!

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Chesnik CONTINUED FROM B6 In the championship match Chesnik defeated Shawn Sorensen of North Sevier, Utah, 3-1, leaving Sorensen with a 41-1 record for the season. This was Paonia’s first time at the TOC. “We got an invitation and we accepted,“ said head coach Nate Wiggins. Finishing fourth at the highly competitive tournament were Clay Campbell (145); Grey Neal (152), who was seeded 10th; and Jaden Miller (182), who pinned three of his opponents in a total of 4:34.

All five of Campbell’s wins were by pin. Campbell’s 21-second �� win over Ben Smith of �� Fruita Monument was �� the seventh-fastest fall of the meet. Sophomore heavyweight Levi Peterson placed sixth on an 8-6 sudden victory loss to a wrestler from Uintah, Utah. Despite being down three varsity wres�� tlers — Anthony Felice, �� Cyrus Malek-Madani �� and Caden Meilner — Paonia scored 119 points to finish ninth at the 28-team tournament.

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B8 Wednesday, January 17, 2018

HEALTH AND FITNESS

Delta County Independent

Registration opens for early blood draws, health fairs

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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 �� — Thurs� day, 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 888-592-6255. People can set up appointments for early blood draws or the health fairs at all three locations. Online registration for early blood draws and health fairs can be

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completed on the hospital website, deltahospi tal.org. 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 approximately two weeks.) Participants who need results quicker may sign up for results through Quest’s website. Early blood draw and health fair participants

Cardiac Support Group to meet Jan. 24 MMH Cardiac Support Group will meet Wednesday, Jan. 24, 6:30-7:30 p.m. for a time of education and support for heart attack survivors or those with cardiac disease. The meeting will take place at Montrose Memorial Hospital in Conference Room B. January’s meeting will feature a discussion on “Medications: Reducing Cost and Staying on Schedule,” presented by Benjamin Proctor. Proctor is a doctor of pharmacy candidate 2019 and intern pharmacist at Montrose Memorial Hospital. Family members, friends and caregivers are welcome to take advantage of this free resource. Meetings will continue the fourth Wednesday of each month.

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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 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

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DCMH Primary Care ��

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

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.

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Five-year employee

Shelby Hines was recently recognized for ﬁve years of employment at Delta County Memorial Hospital.

Nothing to sneeze at ... BY WENDY SHIMA, M.ED. Technical College of the Rockies

I was sitting in a waiting room the other day and happened to notice a young mother and her little boy, maybe 3 or 4 years old. He was occupying himself with toys, staying close to his mother and conversing with her. Now, as an instructor in the field of early childhood, it often happens that when I am at loose ends, I take to observing around me. I am particularly interested in how we communicate with each other and I often overhear conversations while out and about that are intriguing. On this particular morning, I observed a not-so-unique exchange between this mother and son duo. I was sitting a few chairs away when the little boy suddenly sneezed on his mother. She leaned over and explained to him, “You need to cover that.” She turned back to what she was doing and sure enough, the little boy sneezed on her again, still without covering his sneeze. This time, the

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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 libido. Testosterone, total female, $45 — A hormone produced that contributes to lean muscle mass, bone density and maintaining libido. Low T can cause

mother became somewhat annoyed and more firmly commented, ”I told you to cover that!” And then added for emphasis, “Why don’t you listen to me?” I thought to myself how much was going on in those statements! How could this have been a more positive moment for both mom and son? Could we offer these basic, howto-live-in-the-world lessons to children in a way that they become interesting, even fun, experiences? I once had a classroom full of 3- and 4-year-old children who, unintentionally, fell out of their chairs on a regular basis. One day, I gathered the children in a circle and put a child-sized chair in the middle. I told the children I was going to demonstrate the proper way to sit on a chair. I slowly walked to the chair, turned around, sat halfway on the chair and

then promptly fell on the floor. The children burst out laughing. I stood up, brushed myself off, and explained that I needed a little practice, too! Did anyone have a suggestion for me? I couldn’t count the number of ideas the children had for me! All of a sudden, every child in the circle wanted to show me how to sit properly and carefully on a chair. Sometimes we learn the best and have the most fun when we have a leadership role in what we are learning. And wouldn’t we, as adults, enjoy the lessons more in this format as well? My wish for us all is that we can find a little more fun in learning, even if it’s just learning how to cover a sneeze! Wendy Shima is the early childhood education program coordinator and instructor at Technical College of the Rockies in Delta.

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10-year employee

Maria Segura was recently recognized for 10 years of employment at Delta County Memorial Hospital.

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Tobacco cessation program starts Jan. 22

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

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HEALTH AND FITNESS

Delta County Independent

Have a reason to smile in 2018 BY TASHA GIBSON, RHD A Kidz Clinic

A new year means a new start to a new you! So what makes you smile? Is it being with loved ones, enjoying the Colorado outdoors, or just reading a good book? Well whenever you smile, your teeth are present to the world. One of the most important pieces of the body is right where you show your smile. Taking good care of your mouth, teeth and gums is a great

goal to have itself. Having good oral care and good dental hygiene care can help prevent bad breath, tooth decay and even gum disease so you can keep your teeth. Did you know more than 500 species of bacteria thrive in your mouth at any given time. Researchers and dental professionals are discovering new reasons to brush and floss daily. A healthy and happy mouth may help you avoid

medical disorders, which will benefit your overall health. On the other hand, an unhealthy mouth, especially if you have gum disease, will likely increase the risk of serious health problems such as heart attack, stroke, poorly controlled diabetes and preterm labor. Your mouth is a window into the entire body, which also serves as a helpful tool in detection for early signs and symptoms of systemic disease.

Tips for starting your weight loss journey BY MELISSA WDOWIK, RDN

Assistant Professor Kendall Reagan Nutrition Center

Americans gain an average of three pounds per year, but tend to not pay attention until they are 15 to 20 pounds above their usual weight. What causes that gradual creeping up of weight? More time sitting and less time being physically active. Extra calories taken in. Too much stress. Too little sleep. Together, these factors create the perfect storm of imbalanced hormones, cravings, overeating and weight gain. In this chemical environment, weight loss is challenging, and in our societal environment, weight loss is even more daunting. While there is no simple approach that works for everyone, there are six significant changes you can make to start this important journey. 1) Decrease intake of simple sugars and processed carbohydrates. Cut back on sweetened beverages (soda, coffee drinks, energy drinks, and sweetened fruit blends) and white bread products like bread, buns, and donuts as well as white rice and pasta. Rather than feeling deprived, concentrate on the benefits of water and the carbs you can have — whole grains, vegetables, fruits, and dairy. 2) Focus on eating protein throughout the day, with every meal and with every snack, if you snack.

Dietary protein causes a smaller increase in blood insulin than carbohydrates. A surge in insulin after simple carbohydrate intake can cause a drop in blood sugar that triggers cravings and overeating, a cycle not usually seen after protein intake. This does not mean you should use protein supplements or eliminate all carbs, either; instead, eat a palm-size portion each of a protein and a carb food, such as a chicken thigh with a half cup of wild rice. Fill the rest of your plate with vegetables. 3) Eat fewer calories. Start by leaving some food on your plate at every meal. Then begin serving yourself smaller portions, being sure to serve it on a plate, not eat from a container. You can feel satisfied with this smaller intake by drinking water, eating slowly, and filling up on low calorie, high fiber vegetables. 4) Replace some of your meat and noodles with legumes, such as beans, peas or lentils. I cook chicken breast with black beans, turkey with lentils, and shrimp with peas. This technique helps meet the first three goals, because legumes contain complex carbohydrates rather than simple, they are a good source of protein, and they have enough fiber to fill you up and leave you satisfied. 5) Work on your stress and sleep management.

Stress can cause overeating and fat storage thanks to the hormone cortisol, while inadequate sleep increases hunger due to the hormone ghrelin. 6) Get physical activity every day. Even without a gym membership, you can be active walking, exercising with an app, or even doing jumping jacks while watching TV. While weight loss is neither quick nor easy, you have to start somewhere and sometime in order to protect yourself from diabetes, heart disease, digestive disorders and other ailments. Take the first step of your journey with a positive attitude, and watch for tips from this column throughout the year. Melissa Wdowik, PhD, RDN, FAND, is an assistant professor at Colorado State University in the Department of Food Science and Human Nutrition, and director of the Kendall Reagan Nutrition Center.

A systemic disease is a disease that affects or pertains to your entire body, not just one of its parts. For example, systemic conditions like AIDS or diabetes often becomes apparent as mouth lesions or other oral problems first. In fact, according to the Academy of General Dentistry, more than 90 percent of all systemic diseases produce oral signs and symptoms. The importance of good oral hygiene keeps getting stronger and stronger. It is so important to realize how the oral cavity is directly linked to the entire body. This year encourage yourself to brush your teeth two times a day and floss daily. Also encourage yourself to visit your dental professional twice a year. A new year means new smiles and memories made forever. What is your reason to smile in 2018? Tasha Gibson is a registered dental hygienist at A Kidz Clinic which provides whole child healthcare for ages 0-21.

Hospital volunteers wanted Delta County Memorial Hospital needs hospital volunteers. Days and hours are flexible. There are currently openings in the ER, oncology, gift shop and other areas. If you are interested, please contact volunteer coordinator Barbara Hall at 250-2105 for an application.

Wednesday, January 17, 2018

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Check out the DCI Print Shop for all your printing needs.

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Call Randy Crespin at 874-4421.

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30-year employee

Linda Rubick (left) is congratulated on 30 years of employment at Delta County Memorial Hospital.

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B10 Wednesday, January 17, 2018

HEALTH AND FITNESS

Delta County Independent

Safe ways to deal with sinus pressure Sinuses are bony, hollow, air-filled cavities inside the face and skull. They are located in the low-center of the forehead, behind the eyes and in bones behind the nose. Cedars-Sinai Medi-

cal Center says the sinuses lighten the skull and produce a mucus that moisturizes the inside of the nose. Unfortunately, when colds or the flu strike, sinuses may become one of the first

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spots affected by these illnesses. When the sinuses are working properly, mucus will drain into the nasal passages or out the back of the throat. Most of this drainage goes unnoticed. However, the American Sinus Institute says that factors such as allergies, illness, weather changes, dehydration, and dry air can make the sinus mucus thicker and drainage more difficult. This is when problems like infection, stuffiness or throat irritation may occur. In order to combat sinus congestion and drainage concerns, people may try certain strategies that include flushing the sinuses and thinning the mucus. It is imperative to use safe flushing methods to keep the sinuses healthy. Neti pots are among the more popular methods to flushing sinuses. These small teapot-like devices with elongated snouts have become a fixture in many medicine cabinets. Because they are drug-free alterna-

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20-year employee

Louann Drown was recently recognized for 20 years of employment at Delta County Memorial Hospital.

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tives, they can be handy for those worried about antihistamines making them drowsy or reacting with other drugs. Neti pots and other nasal irrigation systems use saline

to moisten and clear out nasal passages to promote drainage of sinus cavities. However, according to the U.S. Food and Drug Administration, using these devices improperly can increase one’s risk of infection. CBS News says that neti pots have even been linked to the deadly Naegleria fowleri, which is otherwise known as the “brain-eating” amoeba. The key to preventing infection is to only use previously boiled, sterile or distilled water to irrigate. Tap water is not adequately filtered, says the FDA, and may contain low levels of organisms that can stay alive

in nasal passages and potentially cause serious infections. Those who are concerned about nasal irrigation safety may be wise to skip neti pots and use pre-packaged, sterile saline solutions that are bottled for the purpose of alleviating congestion. However, when prepared water is used in a clean neti pot or other device, these methods can be perfectly safe. Sinuses can get clogged for many reasons. To free up breathing, consult your physician to learn more about how to safely irrigate your nasal passages.

Ice safety tips from Colorado Parks & Wildlife Winter has finally arrived across Colorado bringing freezing temperatures and snow to the state. But despite the chill, Colorado Parks and Wildlife reminds everyone that lakes, ponds and streams still may not be ready for winter activity. If going to a state park, check with staff about ice thickness before heading out. Here are a few more basic safety rules to follow when enjoying winter adventures on the ice. These and many more tips are available on the CPW website at cpw. state.co.us/learn/Pages/ IceFishingSafety.aspx. First, always assume that unsafe ice conditions may exist. Ice thickness changes with location and is determined by water depth. Look for clear blue ice. Always check ice conditions. Drill test holes to measure thickness. Four inches of ice is generally considered safe for people for ice fishing and ice skating. However, off-highway vehicles, or OHVs, need at least six inches of ice thickness. Cars generally need no less than eight inches to a foot of ice. Medium-size pickup trucks require 1215 inches of ice, minimum. Whenever there is any question about thickness or conditions, stay off the ice. Look for signs of unsafe conditions, including ice of different colors, water on top of the ice, cracks, pressure ridges, open water and bubbles in the ice. Also, beware of ice covered with snow. Sometimes the snow serves as insulation, keeping the ice from melting. Other times, the snow has the opposite effect, insulating the surface from freezing. Also be aware that water levels can fluctuate

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in reservoirs which can affect ice stability. If you do choose to venture onto the ice, remember the following ice safety tips: Never go onto the ice alone. Having someone with you means your partner can call or send for help if you fall in. Remember reach – throw – go. If you are with someone who falls through the ice, use this approach. If you can’t reach the person from shore, throw them a floatation device or rope. If you still can’t help the person quickly, go for help. Never attempt to walk out onto the ice to rescue your friend because you may also fall through the ice. Avoid alcoholic beverages. Alcohol increases your chance for hypothermia, which is the loss of body temperature. It can also lower your inhibitions, increasing the likelihood that you might take risks you might not otherwise take. Wear a life jacket. Always wear a life jacket or personal flotation device (PFD) over winter clothing. Life jackets can provide excellent flotation and protection from hypothermia. Assemble a personal safety kit. Always wear a safety kit on your body when going out onto the ice. Safety kits should include an ice pick, rope and a whistle to call for help. Always keep your pets on a leash. Never allow your dog to run out

onto the ice and never walk your dog near a frozen lake or pond without a leash. If your dog falls through the ice, do not attempt a rescue. Go for help. If the ice couldn’t support the weight of your animal, it can’t support you. If you do fall through the ice, remember the following: Don’t panic. Try to remain calm to conserve as much energy as possible. Try to get your arms onto the ice and kick as hard as you can with your feet to help lift you onto the ice, and then roll to safety. If you can’t get out of the cold water by yourself, take the following appropriate actions to extend your survival time while waiting to be rescued. Do not swim. Swimming will cause your body to lose heat much faster than if you stay as still as possible. Conserve heat. Expect a progressive decrease in your strength and ability to move. Make any difficult maneuvers quickly, while you still can. Keep your upper body above water. Keep your head and upper body as far out of the water as reasonably possible to conserve heat. There’s lots of outdoor fun to enjoy in Colorado, but please do so carefully. No one can guarantee you that the ice is safe. The decision to go onto the ice is personal and should be made only after taking all the precautions to reduce the risk.

SURFACE CREEK January 17, 2018

NEWS

Section

www.deltacountyindependent.com

Sled dog races set for Jan. 27-28 The Grand Mesa Summit Challenge Sled Dog Race is scheduled Jan. 27-28. This event is sponsored annually by the Rocky Mountain Sled Dog Club, The Rocky Mountain Sled Dog Club (RMSDC) promotes the art and joy of dog mushing through racing events and camaraderie. Spring races are generally four to 15 miles in length. There are two participation levels, one for seasoned mushers and one for newer recreational mushers. RMSDC also has youth races for those under 14 years old. Race events have both sledding and skijoring classes. Sledding

uses four, six, eight or more dogs and run a length equal to the number of dogs used. For instance four-dog teams run four miles and eight-dog teams run eight miles. Skijorers usually race for four miles with one dog and six miles when using two dogs. Over the years, participants have used traditional Siberian huskies, hounds, pointers, poodles, Rottweilers, boxers and other various 3070 pound dogs. Any dog that likes to pull and run can be used. Visit rmsdc.org or check next week’s DCI for additional details.

Cedaredge trustees prepare for Jan. 18 regular meeting BY DON BENJAMIN Staff Writer

The Cedaredge Board of Trustees met on Jan. 11 in a discussion-only work session to review items scheduled for action at the regular trustees meeting. Interested citizens are encouraged to attend the regular trustees’ meeting on Thursday, Jan. 18, at 5 p.m. in the Cedaredge Civic Center, Grand Mesa Room, 140 NW 2nd Street. Two proposed resolutions were discussed at the work session. The first resolution, if approved on Jan. 18, will modify the water rate for the Surface Creek Saddle Club, a nonprofit organization with relatively low water usage. The second, if approved, will recognize the commitment of town employees by giving qualified retirees a Cedaredge Golf Club greens pass for one year following the date of retirement. To be eligible for the pass retirees would have to be at least 65 years of age and be retiring in good standing with at least five and one-half years service. On Jan. 18 the trustees will also act on a proposal to add more funds to the 2018 water and wastewater utility relief fund and to alter the process for administering the increased funds. Based on 2017 numbers, interim town administrator Greg Brinck anticipates that two dozen residents will qualify for relief in 2018. Residents seeking Cedaredge relief assistance must first apply to the LowIncome Energy Assistance Program (LEAP), a federal program designed to help lowincome households home heating costs. A household that receives LEAP approval is issued a letter which must be presented to the Town of Cedaredge for water/wastewater relief. The LEAP application can be obtained from Delta County Health and Human Services by calling 1866-432-8435, or by visiting

the Delta office at 560 Dodge Street, or the Hotchkiss office at 196 West Hotchkiss Avenue. LEAP heating assistance extends from Nov. 1, 2017, through April 30, 2018; however, the Cedaredge water/ wastewater relief program covers the entire year. Considerable discussion centered on the hiring process for the next town administrator. The trustees discussed two options: either directly appointing an administrator without advertisement, or advertising the position and conducting a screening and interview process. The trustees will decide which process to follow at the Jan. 18 meeting. Bids have been received for the Highway 65 waterline replacement and the town public works department will review the bids and recommend which to accept as part of the Jan. 18 meeting. And the trustees will receive firstof-year reports from the treasurer, golf club, public works, chief of police and interim town administrator. Other work session items that were discussed and deferred to the regular meeting for action were: • Proposed changes in golf club fees designed to encourage more 18-hole play, revising the cost of the players’ club card, and creating designated days for senior and military veteran golfers. • A proposal to fund a redesign and upgrade of the town website. • Renewal of three town liquor licenses. • Renewal of a right-of-way lease to allow a citizen to build a fence and action vacating a portion of a dead-end alleyway. Additional details of items covered at the trustees’ work session and a full version of the Jan. 18 regular meeting agenda can be viewed at the Town of Cedaredge website, http://www.cedaredgecolorado. com/

Winter wonderland

Photo by Don Benjamin

A cross-country skier heads up the Ward Creek Reservoir trail on Grand Mesa. The temperature was 20 degrees at four in the afternoon but there was plenty of snow and sunshine.

OC finalizes wording for three ballot questions BY RICK SMITH Contributing Writer

The first meeting of the Orchard City Board of Trustees in 2018 was held on Jan. 10, focusing primarily on the upcoming municipal election slated for April 3. All members except Gynee Thomassen, who was excused due to a prior commitment, attended. The agenda was approved, as were the minutes of the December board meeting, with slight modifications. The January High School Student of the Month, Tatum Gilmore, was recognized by Mayor Ken Volagmore. Tatum is a Delta High School student. During constituent time, Dave Stueck asked for clarification on the number and locations of the six bridges owned by Orchard City. There are five crossing Surface Creek and one on Tongue Creek. Stueck suggested that two bridges crossing Surface Creek are nonessential and there could be alternatives regarding repair or replacement of the two bridges. With $5 million in town assets, he also suggested that alternatives and saving money should be strongly considered. Stueck also wondered why his request to visit water sites in the town were denied, citing terrorist activities as the reason for denial. Trustee Eckels said it was determined the request was a health and safety issue. Stueck said he would still like to visit the site if it could be worked out. Mary Ditlove requested that the board pull the municipal ballot questions regarding marijuana tax. Doug Keller asked what steps the board had in place for a possible drought. Trustee Huerkamp said there has been a plan since 2005 with a possi-

bility of having a DOLA representative confer with the town and the use of general fund, if necessary. Keller also asked what action had been taken on his August 2017 letter to the town. The question of “robust and public debates” and when they might occur was readdressed, as Keller asked when these would be scheduled. Mayor Volgamore stated that public meetings were not the place for debate unless scheduled prior to the meeting. The mayor did encourage all constituents to suggest ideas to the board. Keller asked when public debates would be scheduled. The town hall meeting scheduled for Jan. 17 was mentioned as a possible suggestion. All scheduled town events with three or more trustees attending are posted at the town hall. Meetings between two members are not required to be posted. Information on public meetings are sent out with town water bills, published in the Delta County Independent and are posted at the Town Hall. Resolution 2018-01, Property Tax Ballot Question was approved. Resolution 2018-02, Marijuana Tax Ballot Question was approved after discussion. Trustee Tollefson had concerns that the cost of marijuana has gone down with more communities opting to legalize the sales, and that could cut into the town’s tax revenues. He questioned if it was too late to pursue the issue. Trustee Kirkpatrick said it gives the citizens an opportunity to decide and to voice their opinions. Trustee Huerkamp added that the ballot allows the people a say on the issue. Trustee Fuller cast a “nay” vote. The first readings of Ordi-

nance 2018-01 Sales Tax Ballot Questions and 2018-02, Flood Plan Regulations were read. These will be addressed at the town hall meeting on Jan. 17. Trustee Eckels reported that the Water Committee would soon be reviewing the project checklist. There will be a water valve audit to address discrepancies. The town meter has a dial and also sends a signal, which is not always compatible. A professional will be called in to calibrate the meter and the calibration will also give a more accurate measure on low flows. The roads and parks committeesowill meet in February. No reports were stated for housing or Surface Creek Area Planning. Trustee Huerkamp said the new executive director for DCED is being introduced to the area, and that the organization will be representing Delta County at the Denver Outdoor Recreation and Manufacturing Expo. The meeting closed with comments by the trustees. Trustee Huerkamp hopes the citizens will attend the town hall meeting on Jan. 17. There will be a discussion of the ballot issues and explanations on how they came to be on the ballot. Trustee Fuller is looking forward to robust conversations at the town hall meeting and urges voters to pick up information packets. He said his “nay” vote on the marijuana tax ballot question was because he believes it is a dead issue. Trustee Eckels said that not placing the tax issues on the ballot would deny citizens their voice. The town hall meeting is scheduled for 7 p.m. Wednesday, Jan. 17, at the Orchard City Town Hall. The public is encouraged to attend.

Undersheriff speaks at rod/gun club meeting BY DON BENJAMIN Staff Writer

The Cedaredge Rod and Gun Club held its annual meeting last Saturday at the Stolte Shed. Dinner was catered by the Cedaredge High School Future Farmers of America and FFA students acted as volunteer servers. Members in attendance approved a bylaw change to create two new membership classifications — a corporate membership and a daily membership for visitors. Another bylaw change approved by attendees will require the club’s board of directors to elect club officers at the next regularly scheduled meeting following the annual meeting. Members also received a 2017 financial report including an announcement that the club gave out four $500 scholarships to high school students. Members were thanked for their generosity in supporting club functions and helping students. Mark Taylor, Delta County

undersheriff, was the club’s guest speaker. Taylor has been part of the Delta County Sheriff ’s Office since 1989 when he joined the organization as a new graduate of the Delta-Montrose Technical College Criminal Justice Academy (now the police academy at Technical College of the Rockies). He has served as undersheriff since 2003. In his speech Taylor outlined three law enforcement issues in Delta County: drugs, mental health and countywide coverage. Regarding drug enforcement, methamphetamine and heroin production and distribution are major concerns. As yet, the nationwide opioid epidemic has not surfaced in Delta County, but marijuana is an issue. Legal medicinal and recreational use of marijuana is not a concern but efforts required to limit largescale operations and illicit distribution is a large drain on law enforcement resources. Abuse occurs when par-

ties from outside the county (including international criminals from Russia and Cuba)

purchase and rent property and set up illegal large-scale operations. Another source of

abuse is tied to unscrupulous physicians who write bogus ROD/GUN CLUB TO C2

Photo by Don Benjamin

The guest speaker for last week’s annual meeting of the Cedaredge Rod and Gun Club was Delta County Undersheriff Mark Taylor, shown second from the left with current club ofﬁcers. Pictured are (left to right) Dennis Palmer, treasurer; Undersheriff Taylor; Chuck Church, vice president; Jan Quick, secretary; and Doug Scarlett, president.

C2 Wednesday, January 17, 2018

SURFACE CREEK NEWS

Delta County Independent

One thousand cranes of happiness BY DON BENJAMIN Staff Writer

Sunshine streams in through shop windows as a group of origami enthusiasts meet in downtown Cedaredge to drink coffee, socialize and fold squares of colorful paper into elegant cranes. Group members, who have named themselves “The Craniacs,” gather for a morning of folding every Saturday in the front room of Stacy’s on Main Street. The size of the group varies, with sometimes as many as 10 folders, but the level of enthusiasm remains the same. Origami is an intricate Japanese art form. Enthusiasts fold paper into shapes representing animals, flowers and

other three-dimensional objects such as boxes or boats. The crane is a popular origami shape because the bird is an Asian symbol of happiness, peace, good luck and long life. Japanese folklore proclaims that a single crane can live a thousand years — and anyone who folds a thousand paper cranes will be blessed with prosperity and good health. Paper cranes are given as wellwishing gifts for birthdays, weddings and other special occasions. Depending on technique, each finished bird requires as many as 20 separate folds moving through intermediary shapes — a kite, a boat — and performing increas-

Photo by Don Benjamin

Elegantly folded origami cranes are given as gifts to grant the receiver good luck, happiness, peace and long life. ingly complex creases and elaborate inside-out folds to produce each finished bird. Once completed, 15 cranes are threaded together and sold in Stacy’s shop to benefit

the newly formed Grand Mesa Arts and Events Center. The “Craniacs” get started around 9:30 a.m. every Saturday and new folders are always welcome.

Photo by Don Benjamin

Snow is piling up

Joyce Tanihara of Cedaredge and her dog Joey enjoy a cross-country ski outing on Grand Mesa at the Ward Creek Reservoir trail.

Declining cottonwoods come down BY DON BENJAMIN Staff Writer

Photo by Don Benjamin

Saturday morning “Cedaredge Craniacs” include origami enthusiasts (left to right) Barbara Torke, Kellee Fletcher, Laurae Fortner-Welch and Markee Travis.

Three tall cottonwood trees had to be removed last week from the 500 block of Main Street in Cedaredge. TLC Tree Services was contracted to remove the trees, which owner/operator Jeffrey Haswell described as “in advanced decline” with a “die-back projecting high into the crowns.”

The trees on a private town lot had been steadily declining with fragile branches occasionally falling in high winds or under the weight of snow. The declining cottonwoods — which Haswell estimated to be between 50 and 60 years old — once towered over the centuryold two-story house on the property. But the trees had not leafed out in sev-

Photo by Don Benjamin

Juan Perez, a 20-year employee of TLC Tree Services, was busy last week sectioning a 60-year-old cottonwood tree along Main Street in Cedaredge. Three giant trees on a private lot had declined due to age and a lack of moisture. The cross-section of the failed tree shows its fragile condition. eral years and they were beginning to threaten the structure they once shaded. According to Haswell, the failing trees are typical of large cottonwoods which are unable to adapt to an urban environment. Cottonwoods have shalPhoto by Don Benjamin low root structures and Three cottonwoods that once shaded this home when the trees are suron Main Street in Cedaredge were taken down last rounded by sidewalks and pavement they don’t week.

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Garden club plans for productive 2018 BY JOAN CHAMBERS Special to the DCI

Laughter, Christmas greetings, the camaraderie that is felt between valued friends. These gifts were shared by members of the Plant and Dig Garden Club as they gathered on Dec. 14 at R & J’s restaurant for our annual Christmas celebration. After each had eaten a delicious lunch served by the competent staff and prepared for us by superb chefs, we proceeded with our gift exchange. Garden-related items were opened, exchanged as the fun proceeded. After one gift had been “exchanged,” the mem-

ber whose gift was taken drew another gift, only to find that it was exactly the same as the gift that had been “stolen.” That brought much laughter from everyone present. A good time was had between friends; good memories were made. And each and every one of us thanks the staff at R & J’s restaurant for providing a wonderful setting, good food and great service for our gathering. Our upcoming January meeting is an important one, for club members will discuss not only our individual plans for the 2018 season, but receive ideas about pro-

grams they would enjoy having implemented for the next 12 months. We will also set information for our annual booklets which will be distributed to members at the February meeting. It will be a productive, busy meeting. A new gardening season will soon be upon us. All persons interested in joining our members as we proceed on our journey of learning, scholarship, community involvement and friendship are welcome. The club meets the third Friday of every month. If you would like more information, please call 856-7077 or 8563897.

fare well. Concrete and asphalt compact the soil and block ground water until the moisture-hungry trees cannot survive. Haswell has operated TLC in Delta County for 25 years and one of his saddest duties is to remove a venerable tree but he prides himself on doing it efficiently and safely.

Rod/gun club FROM PAGE C1 prescriptions for medical marijuana. As for mental health issues, the sheriff ’s office has seen an increase in encounters with members of the public who are experiencing psychotic episodes. The office has been working with trained mental health clinicians to help with issues of intervention and transportation to appropriate facilities as alternatives to incarceration. Taylor closed his speech by commenting that law enforcement coverage in the 1,149square-mile area of Delta County continues to be a challenge.

BRUIN TRACKS

Delta County Independent

Wednesday, January 17, 2018

BRUIN TRACKS 970-856-6882

C EDAREDGE HIGH SCHOOL

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��575 Southeast Deer Creek Drive

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Realizing Why Our School is Great... And Making Efforts To Improve Our Weaknesses Olivia McCrackin, Jessica Craig, Azalee Hoffbauer, and Hunter Campbell Staff Writers

In December, forty Cedaredge High School students participated in a community and district board meeting to ask the students their opinions on CHS. From this meeting, community, district, and school leader learned about what students love and would like to do to make our school a great place to be a part of. At Cedaredge High School, students pick their yearly class schedules. Students have certain classes they are required to take in order to graduate, but when it comes to electives, anything is possible. Some of the most well known electives to take are the weights training classes, agriculture/shop classes, and the music programs. What many people don’t know is that a variety of other elective classes are available like the STEM program, arts program, home ec, Spanish classes, current events, and journalism. There are also areas available to be a teacher aid or have a study period during the school day. All of these provided classes offer access to knowledge needed for college acceptance, helping a student choose their career path, or further a student’s education outside of the standard classes. “The current events class has trained us for real world events by letting us talk about controversial topics, but still be civil,” says student Mack Mousner. Her elective classes have been a place creative output do a great deal to help her move forward in her education. Some people would complain that Cedaredge High School doesn’t offer enough electives, but the available elective classes are some of the best ones a student could take in order to enrich their learning. Mr. Garrison, Cedaredge High School’s weights and physical education teacher, supports having electives in a student’s schedule for many reasons that he explains. “My class �� their mind go, and de-stress all while teaching the students life skills like hard work, competition, and teamwork that is all outside the classroom.” He also said that for such a small school, we have arguably some of the best classes for all sorts of students to take. CHS students enjoy their school environment as well. Through-

out the meeting a majority of the students highlighted the size and closeness of our school. Many students like how the teachers are willing to help everyone. They believe that the teachers open up and make the time to help each student learn what they need to know. They also like how “everyone knows everyone” within the community. The support from the community and teachers makes the students feel more welcome. A student says, “We know each other and it is comfortable here.”Another aspect of the community that students enjoy is the Grand Mesa. Many people love the outdoor lifestyle. Another student says, “It give us somewhere to go when we want to get out and do something.” CHS students also enjoy many of the friendly and supportive aspects of the school. Much of the support that the student body receives is from Mrs. Cerise, the Cedaredge High School counselor. She helps students with their social and emotional needs as well as with their college readiness plans. Mrs. Cerise provides scholarship information for seniors who are preparing for higher education. She meets with students everyday and is always willing to help them. “She actually cares about me” says Megan Huggett, a senior at CHS. “She does everything she can to ensure that I’m following my path to success”. Mrs. Cerise observed the School Board meeting and thought it had a very positive impact on students and staff alike. “We [The Cedaredge High School Staff and administration] really listened to what the kids said.” Mrs. Cerise was interested to hear what students thought of their school and community; “We really took to heart a lot of the things that can be changed.” The staff at CHS are approaching ideas and possible changes with open minds. The district meeting at Cedaredge High School has provided many insights into the great aspects of CHS and will help make CHS a even better place to learn.

Escape Winter Weather and Travel to a Warm Climate Jessica Craig Co-Editor

Winter has not yet descended upon Cedaredge, Colorado, but some students and staff members at CHS journeyed to warmer climates over the school’s holiday break. With the cold air, many people desire warmer weather. Some of the members of the community travled to other countries and some traveled within the United States. Traveling gives families and friends opportunities to submerse themselves into new cultures, and make many lifelong memories. The Carlson family traveled to the Baja Peninsula, Mexico over the holiday break. They killed it at beach volleyball, enjoyed �� it lasted. Mrs. Cefrise enjoyed her holidays in the warm weather of Belize. “The beach and shark pictures are from a barrier island off the coast of Belize �� world. The ruin I’m standing on is called Xunantunich which is a Mayan ruin located in western Belize near the Guatemalan border. The entrance to the cave picture was Actun Tunichil Muknal (ATM cave) which is a cave that was a Mayan ritual site just before the collapse of the Mayan empire.”

What’s Bruin Inside Winter School Dance will take place March 17th Prom Plans Have Begun NHS Gears Up For Snow Shoveling Finally FFA Travels to Denver and Enjoys Stockshow Activities Girls Basketball Forges on Towards a Championship Boys Basketball Looks to Get Back on Track Wrestling Ranked First in the State The Peer Tutoring Program Offers Students With Opportunities to Log Community Service and Volunteer Hours and to Better the Education of the Students at CHS Knowledge Bowl approaches Regional Competition after placing 2nd at Central Competition Girls Swimming Gets Excited for Regionals Taking Place During the First Weekend in February CHS Families Travel to Far Places Over Break to Experience New Cultures and to Vacation New Members Were Inducted Into the Cedaredge High School Chapter of National Honor Society New Foreign Exchange Student Explores a High School Life in Cedaredge

Mele Kalikimaka! The Knutsons enjoyed a warm sunny holiday on the beautiful island of Hawaii. They played on the beach and celebrated Christmas with the islanders.

C4 Wednesday, January 17, 2018

BRUIN TRACKS

Cedaredge

Delta County Independent

Bruins

Take Aim and Fire Away Olivia McCrackin Staff Writer

“Pull!” In a split second the pig��

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competitions take place that include �� -

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Gus Sandels��Katie Hyke� Aaron Good�� Isaac Swoffer �� Katie Hyke ��

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Katie Hyke aims at a ��

Nate Stumph��tices with his team at ��

ICAP Provides Time:

The Essential Ingredient for Success

Kacey Tsosie and Salem Shenold �� Keaton Shepherd and Kaden Schulz ��

Grace Hatheway Staff Writer ��

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Ashton Turner��

Jessica Craig��

CHS Welcomes Tillmann from Germany Jordan Taylor Staff Writer

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Abigail Lozano and Alex Padilla ��

Mr. Montoya �� Emilee Isaman’s ��

BRUIN TRACKS

Delta County Independent

Wednesday, January 17, 2018

Cedaredge

Bruins

Uptown Dunk

The Basketball Bond Hannah Gardner Co-Editor

Natalie Barnard Staff Writer

Slam dunk! The Cedaredge High School varsity boys basketball record overall is 4-3-0. The boys’ best game this season was when they faced Delta on the courts. They fought valiantly to score points against the Panthers. Over the summer as a team, they went to a camp at Western State University to improve their skills and came back even stronger for the season headed their way. They also went to Grand Valley to scrimmage other teams for practice and to learn what they would soon be up against. On the team they

have a wide variety of skills from each player. Fabian Barron who is a sophomore playing on varsity �� “ I was shocked to get the news that I would be playing on varsity because its a faster pace, and it’s �� that every game will present. You just have to go out there and give it your all.” The 2018 team has many seniors who are having the best of times as it is their last year. Next year the underclassmen will have some pretty �� boys’ next game is January 20th against Coal Ridge.

Courtney Freeman reads her options and goes to pass the ball in the game against Ridgway.

Peter Carlson times his jump as he goes for the ball at the beginning of the Ridgway game.

Dalia Alejandre and Clarity Call laugh and enjoy the game of basketball.

As Peter Carlson shoots the freethrow, Jacob Lewis boxes out the Rangely player.

Jacob Brown reads his options before dribbling in the game against Ridgway.

The crowd roars. Cedaredge High Schools’ girls’ basketball team �� Currently undefeated in their season, the team won the Meeker Tournament and also won the Bank of the West Tournament. They defeated the tough teams of Meeker, Delta, and Soroco on their current path to the playoffs. The girls created a strong bond this year as the team enjoys spending time together and making each other laugh. Junior Camie Baldozier talks about her team, “I’m proud of how our team has worked together to accomplish so much this year already. I love the bond we’ve all made with each other.” The girl’s record so far is 7-0. Throughout the year,

the girls put in numerous hours to improve themselves. The team went to several camps during the summer including the CMU camp and the Western camp. The team came together to improve their skills and bond as a family. They’ve faced dif�� and have battled their way through them all. Junior Courtney Freeman discusses a �� the year, “The Delta game was intense. We went into overtime, and it was close. We bounced back. The team pulled together and came out with a big win.” Cedaredge Girls’ Basketball came out �� of their season. Their next home game will be on January 20th against Coal Ridge.

The team celebrates their pregame traditions and prepare themselves for the upcoming game.

Senior Baylee Piper guards the defender in attempts to get the ball back and stop him from scoring.

Grace Andrews reads the opposite player in an attempt to stop her from scoring. Emalee Brooks passes the ball to a player as she starts running the team’s offensive plays.

Taking Down the Road to State

Freshman Trey Geyer celebrates his win during the Blue and White Duels. He also placed third at the �� Eagle Valley tournament.

Courtney Freeman CHS Student

The Cedaredge Bruins Wrestling team is shooting for the takedown. As they approach the second half of their season, the team holds the spot that everyone strives for. Cedaredge High School is ranked Number 1 in the state. The closest the program has ever been to this achievement occurred in 1986 when the team received 7th place. Head coach Cutter Garrison, his coaching staff, and the wrestlers work hard day after day to achieve their end goal. Senior Colton Hoerr says, “Every team in the state of Colorado has wrestling practice everyday; the difference is in the work ethic and the extra time our team spends to be great.” The team has wrestled at a total of three tournaments already. �� the results, says “Never in the his-

tory of Cedaredge have we had four placers at the Warrior Classic. We wrestled great, but we still have room for improvement.” The Warrior Classic, held at Central High School in Grand Junction, represents all sizes and ranks of wrestling teams. Out of a total of 42 teams, the CHS wrestling team placed 8th. Not only did they accomplish such a high overall place, out of the small schools attending, they placed 2nd. Helping lead to the 8th place freshman Trey Geyer, sophomore Sean Dale, senior Colton Hoerr, and junior Taj Van der Linde all placed in the top 6. Cedaredge High School Wrestling team works endlessly to achieve their end goal.

Toby Waddell attempts to pin his opponent as he has him on his back.

Derek Sanchez and Taj Vanderlinde prepare to wrestle each other in the friendly matchup during the Blue and White Duels.

Sean Dale works on pinning his opponent in the match against Basalt. The Wrestlers break out after their home match and show their Bruin Pride.

Jared Hulteen analyzes his opponent to see how he will take him down.

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C6 Wednesday, January 17, 2018

BRUIN TRACKS

Cedaredge

Delta County Independent

Bruins

Current Members Welcome the New Into NHS

Back: Chase Meyers, Peter Carlson, Dalia Alejandre, Victoria Creech, Emily Tullis, Camie Baldozier, Courtney Freeman, Emalee Brooks, Hannah Hatheway, Grace Andrews, Jessica Craig, Holly Jenkins. Middle: Blake Gash, Drew Markley, Marian Blanks, Max Moore, Garth Knutson, Baylee Piper, Hannah Gardner, Kylee Hanson, Azalee Hoffbauer, Julia Jackson, Jade McGovern, Lexi Anderson, Jayden Miller, Alyssa Kissner. Front: Jacob Lewis, Megan Branson, Nicole Miller, Payton Donahue, Kayla Kensler, Wyatt Camp, Colton Hoerr, Axyle Belveal, Olivia McCrackin.

NHS sponsor Emily Cannell congratulates Junior Max Moore on his acceptance into the Cedaredge chapter of National Honor Society.

Gifted and Talented Minds Pen A Story For the Community to Read Along Surface Creek

Gifted and Talented students Jessica Craig, Grace Hatheway, Hannah Hatheway, Holly Jenkins and Nevaeh Martinez wrote “Cleo’s Christmas Party”. In coordination with the Cedaredge Library, the story was placed in the Storywalk © displays along the Surface Creek Trail near the high school. These students walked the entire kindergarten class of CES down the trail to read the story that ended with hot chocolate and coloring at the high school. They also brought the story to Little Sprouts Community Preschool and read it to the students there.

Mr. Parsons Integrates Theatre With Economics to Aid �� Jordan McMillan advertises a water bottle. His skit demonstrated that “Incentives Matter”. Whether they actually need it or not, people are willing to buy a product if they have an incentive. In this case, it was 12.5% off.

Benny Miller collapses in exhaustion after a long day at work. He demonstrated that “Trade Makes People Better Off” by trading his money for �� that Benny does not have and does not have to learn because he can pay someone else to do it.

BRUIN TRACKS Editor-in-Chief Hannah Hatheway

Co-Editors Jessica Craig

Hannah Gardner

Advertising Editor Hunter Campbell

Writing Staff Natalie Barnard Jasmine Cruthers Grace Hatheway Azalee Hoffbauer

Olivia McCrackin Emily Phillips Baylee Piper Jordan Taylor

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

Mr. Parsons runs a lemonade stand. He modelled “Thinking at the Margin”. People tend to buy small amounts of a product instead of large amounts all at once. In this case, the customer purchased one glass of lemonade instead of an entire pitcher.

SURFACE CREEK NEWS

Delta County Independent

The following students were named to honor roll at Cedaredge High School for the first semester of the 2017-18 school year:

A look at local flora with Evelyn Horn with a dense cluster of yellow stamens in the center. But the leaves should have been dissected or at least lobed and these inch-long leaves are merely toothed near the tips. I notice that there are brownish blobs among the yellow blossoms ... they’re unopened flowers! I take one bud Photo by Al Sneider© and can separate out five, curled sepals — they’re McCauley’s buttercup completely covered with silky, dark hairs. Check Lyon pointed out a yel- a yellow blossom ... the low patch of McCauley’s underside is hairy too. buttercup, but buttercups During our Nevada years, are common with 2,000 I learned about such species worldwide and hairs: they protect the nearly 20 on the Western plant’s breathing pores, Slope. They occur in alka- insulate it from wind and line ponds in the ‘Dobies, cold (or heat), diffuse the in dry sagebrush areas intense solar radiation and in our mountains. and reduce water loss in Most buttercups prefer an arid climate. Here on cool damp sites and sever- the tundra most of the al are aquatic. The group moisture is frozen most of or genus name, Ranuncu- the year. lus, is from Latin ‘rana’ I’ve learned since probably for a frog since that marvelous day on both frogs and flowers are the tundra, that my often in wet sites. I’ve met buttercup is named for a few white buttercups the collector H. McCaubut most are yellow. ley (1843-1913). It’s Peggy’s remarks make restricted to the high me curious. The six-inch mountains of Colorado tall stems support inch- and New Mexico. The wide flowers of five shiny proper botanical name is (buttered?) yellow petals Ranunculus macauleyi.

Tatum Gilmore is OC Student of the Month BY RICK SMITH

Contributing Writer

Tatum Gilmore, a Delta High School student, was honored by Mayor Ken Volgamore and the Orchard City Board of Trustees as the January Orchard City Student of the Month. With a GPA of 4.25, Gilmore has received academ-

ic letters for the past two years. She was invited to compete at a national level for an American Sign Language solo and human video after earning a superior at regional competition. She earned an excellent rating at nationals. She has been honored in five Wednesday night

Cedaredge High honor roll

Plants of the Western Slope McCauley’s Buttercup The highway’s dry and the scenery is magnificent! We’ve passed Montrose and ahead the San Juan mountains, gleam bright white against the clear blue sky. This volcanic range, known as the American Alps, is so jagged that it could well be from a child’s drawing. I gaze at the impossible peaks of gleaming snow but I know that when it melts there will be wildflowers. And in my mind’s eye I revisit the Native Plant Society’s walk when we went to Yankee Boy Basin. So many were plants that I’d met only in books, but then they became real. The pale Alp lily bending in the breeze, the deep magenta of the alpine fireweed sprawling over the lip of a trickling waterway, the groundhugging dwarf clovers in white and lavender, broad stretches of Sibbaldia with its tiny yellow blossoms, Snowball saxifrage nestling against a dark rock and the whitish snapdragon-like flowers of James’s snowlover. Walking along the path, Peggy

Wednesday, January 17, 2018

classes in her church. Tatum takes part in the Engage Student Ministries youth group. She also volunteers as a kindergarten aide, helps in the children’s church and attends girls’ only class at her church. After graduation, Gilmore plans on attending CMU for two years then transferring to the University of Utah to finish getting her degree in early childhood education with a minor in American Sign Language. She plans on becoming a kindergarten teacher.

Seniors Straight A’s Grace Andrews Axyle Belveal Peter Carlson Jessica Craig Blake Gash Sabrina Gilmore Hannah Hatheway Holly Jenkins Kayla Kensler Brooke Klaseen Jacob Lewis Ricardo Lopez Jr. Olivia McCrackin Jayden Miller Baylee Piper Mikayla Underwood 3.33-3.99 Dylon Gartman Ty Grant Jade Gummo Colton Hoerr Megan Huggett

Jared Hulteen Katie Hyke Emilee Isaman Alyssa Kissner Angel Lozano Drew Markley Alexander McCracken Jordan McMillan Julie Mills Samantha Ribbens David Schipmann Nathan Stumpf Juniors Straight A’s Marian Blanks Victoria Creech Courtney Freeman Azalee Hoffbauer Julia Jackson Garth Knutson Maxwell Moore Susanna Rugloski Kaden Schulz Keaton Sheppard

Mariah Simler Emily Tullis Abigail Williams 3.33-3.99 Dalia Alejandre Wade Barnard Megan Branson Emalee Brooks Darrian Bulbulian Bradley Callenius Wyatt Camp Payton Donahue Hannah Gardner Luiza Goes Shannon Goff Kylee Hanson Nevaeh Martinez Nicole Miller Larissa Prisbrey Jared Reynolds Briar Wagner Whitney Woolley Guan Xiang

Sophomores Straight A’s Elisabeth Cole Paden Conner Owen Craig Sean Dale Joshua Deal Alayna Edwards Grace Hatheway Joshua Jenkins Kaitlyn Toothaker 3.33-3.99 Adison Arnett Brianna Bowler Hannah Carlson Rebbecca Hofius Hannah Hohenstein Makayla Kehmeier Elizabeth Lewis Brienna McGovern Reganne McIntire Zachary McMillan Katelin Seale Peyton Williams

Freshmen Straight A’s Ellison Black Isaac Blair Conner Brooks Jacen Brown Camryn Guerrero Kammie Henderson Kimberley Milholland Kylin Mitchell Colby Rupp Brody Wagner 3.33-3.99 Kimberly Alanko Sophie Andrews Hayden Blanks Sierra Findley Aspen Furubotten Alaiha Hoffbauer Sophia McCrackin Emma Stumpf Jasper Thomas Dakota Williams Zoe Williams

Photo submitted

Bear Den for October

Students at Cedaredge Elementary School are nominated each month by their teachers to be included in the Bear Den. The different characteristics which can earn recognition are Perseverance (P), Respect (R), Integrity (I), Duty (D) and Excellence (E). October’s Bear Den students are: kindergartners Savannah Beach and Jackson Dunbar from Mrs. Keller’s class, Brayden Duncan and Bella Lawhead from Mrs. McAdam’s class, and Daxtyn Montoya and Vanessa Apodaca from Mrs. Parson’s class; first graders Judah Hawbaker and Jaden Roedel from Mrs. Laurita’s class, Hudson Hebert and Travis McPherson from Mrs. Long’s class, and James Henrie and Tanner Lemon from Mrs. Shriver’s class; second graders Devon Hendrickson and Kirsten Pera from Miss Benson’s class, Charles Miller and Nola Hamler from Mrs. Hawkin’s class, and Abigail Lischke and Sonya Ogier from Mrs. Montoya’s class; third graders Cole Wyatt and Zayda Richens from Mrs. Hoerr’s class, Monserrat GonzalezAvila from Mrs. Galvan’s class, and Ian Blair and Sophey Sakala from Mrs. Lampton’s class; fourth graders Michaela Brennan and Hansel Buchser from Ms. Rienk’s class, Kenzie Reed and Alexander Scartezina from Mr. Stanfield’s class, Isaiah Lemon and Rachel Brooks from Mr. Henderson’s class; fifth graders Devin Kilcoyne and Lindsay Apodaca Rogers from Mrs. Whitney’s class, Chantale Ogier and Rayna Williamson from Ms. Edwards’ class, and Aulyvia Nold and Andreas Thomas from Mr. Thompson’s class; Trenton Lewis and Abigail Lischke from Mrs. Henderson’s PE class; and Isaac Tullis and Trenton Lewis for Mrs. Sharer’s Choice.

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Photo by Rick Smith

Tatum Gilmore was recognized as January Student of the Month by Orchard City Mayor Ken Volgamore and town trustees.

Join the fun of Orchard City Women’s Club The Orchard City Women’s Club is approximately 100 years old, and members usually meet the first Friday of the month at the Orchard City Town Hall, 9661 2100 Road, Austin, at 1 p.m. In January, the club elected new officers for the year. In February, members will be making Valentines for various nursing home residents.

Other activities include a picnic in the summer, a Thanksgiving dinner and Christmas party. Speakers also present interesting programs at the meeting. The club’s money-making project is a fun action and all the proceeds go to local charities. All women living in the Orchard City area was invited to join in the fun and fellowship.

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Guest speakers at Chi Chapter’s November meeting in Cedaredge were Randy and Dennis Palmer who presented tips on maintaining home and personal safety. Strategies for awareness and security were shared and discussed. Delta Kappa Gamma is an international organization for women educators. Chi Chapter includes teachers from Delta and Montrose counties. An annual scholarship is awarded to a recent high school graduate who is planning to enter the ﬁeld of education. For additional information about Chi Chapter, call 275-0525.

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Delta

�� Hotchk �� iss Community �� Chamber of �� Commerce ��

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C8 Wednesday, January 17, 2018

CHURCH

Delta County Independent

Listening to Cedaredge voices “It is easy for a congregation to scratch a community where it doesn’t itch,” according to Joe Agne, pastor of Community United Methodist Church in Cedaredge. “In 2018 we will listen to voices from our community to hear the needs of our community.” Phil Ellsworth, “Cedaredge Poet Laureate” and friend of everyone in Cedaredge, leads off this series during worship at 10 a.m. Sunday, Jan. 28. The title of his presentation is “The Valley of My Dreams.” When asked what he would be saying to the church, he responded with a line from a song, “Somewhere over the rainbow, skies are blue, and the dreams that

Phil Ellsworth you dare to dream really do come true.” There will be time for conversation with Phil after worship in the friendship hour. Everyone is welcome for the whole morning. The church has scheduled six “Cedaredge Voices” for the year. Each

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is asked to tell the congregation what the community needs from them. “We don’t want to assume what the community needs. We need input,” according to Agne. “United Methodist pastors are sent to serve congregations and to join their congregation in serving their communities in the spirit of the founder of Methodism, John Wesley, who said, ‘The World is Our Parish’.” The congregation will announce the dates when future “Voices” will present in worship. For information, contact Pamela Gubkin, the congregation’s Coordinator of Ministries, cedaredgecumc@tds.net or 970-856-3696.

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Storm clouds gather as a prelude to a rainstorm in the ‘dobies between Eckert and Delta.

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Gathering storm clouds

Photo by Don Benjamin

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Classifieds

January 17, 2018

Real Estate

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Real Estate

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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 970234-5869 or 970-234-3502 if interested. (TFNx1)

Announcements DELTA COUNTY CITIZEN Report’s Annual Public Meeting will be held January 27, 2018 at Paonia Public Library, 1-3 pm. The general public is welcomed to attend. Call JoAnn at 970270-4269 for more information. (1x3)

FOR RENT: 2 BEDROOM apartment in Delta, new remodel, new manage- Autos ment. $700 down, $700 per month, includes water, you pay other utilities, 970-985- THREE '89 PORSCHE 444. 8106. (2x2) All three $10,000. 970-589FOR RENT: 2 BEDROOM 6594. (2x2) house, 1 3/4 baths, Ced- SELL THAT CAR FAST IN aredge, $850 per month, the DCI classifieds. Call 874$1,000 deposit, 970-985- 4421. 8106. (2x2)

Help Wanted

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Delta County Independent

Real Estate

� ��TODAY

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SECTION

BUY • SELL • TRADE

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DCI DEADLINES Space Reservation for ALL Display Advertising Copy for Display Advertising Legal Notices Classified Ads Too Late To Classify Calendar Of Events Items

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HELP WANTED: THE City of Delta is now accepting applications for a 2nd Assistant Golf Course Superintendent for the Devil’s Thumb Golf Course. Starting salary is $13.94 per hour. Works under the direction of the Golf Course Superintendent. Operates & maintains golf course irrigation systems, supervises work crews as assigned, and assists in application of chemicals and/or fertilizer. Position is seasonal/ part-time and hours to be worked will be scheduled as needed; ability to work flexible hours with some weekend and holiday work is required. Must have any combination of experience and training equivalent to graduation from high school and two to four years turf care management degree or related field. One to two years of past experience in supervisory capacity preferred. Must possess a valid Colorado driver’s license. Must successfully pass a pre-employment drug screen and background check. Submit applications to the City of Delta, Attn: Human Resources, 360 Main St., Delta, CO 81416 (do not submit application to the golf course). Deadline to apply is 4:30 p.m., January 24, 2018. Applications available at the above address or online at www.cityofdelta. net. EOE (2x2) THE TOWN OF ORCHARD City is currently seeking applicants for a full-time Distribution Maintenance Worker position. The position reports to the Town Administrator. The hourly pay range starts at $17.00$25.00 per hour (dependent upon qualifications) plus a comprehensive benefits package. Qualified applicants must be customer service oriented. Position requires a high school diploma or equivalent; a Colorado Water Treatment Class D and Level 1 Distribution licenses or better; two years public works/utility maintenance; a valid Colorado Driver’s License is required with the ability to obtain a class “B” Commercial Driver’s License. Send resume, cover letter and employment application to finance@kaycee.net; with “Distribution Maintenance Worker” noted in the subject line or mail to Town Hall, Attention Town Administrator at 9661 2100 Road, Austin, CO 81410. Closing Date: February 2, 2018 at 4:30 p.m. An employment application and a detailed position description are available at www.orchardcityco.org. (3x2) PEOPLE LOOK FOR JOBS in the classifieds. 874-4421 YOUR LISTING HERE! call now... 874-4421

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Fridays (5 p.m.) Mondays (noon) Mondays (10 a.m.) Mondays (10 a.m.) Mondays (noon) Tuesdays (10 a.m.)

Help Wanted

Real Estate

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Thank you for your cooperation

Help Wanted

Real Estate

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Help Wanted

Teller- Paonia Location

G ROW WITH FCNB

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Are you a pro at customer service? Do you want to be part of a dynamic team?

We are adding a Teller at our Paonia Branch. This position could be either full or part time. You will process transactions, provide fast friendly service, and have the opportunity to learn a variety of other duties. This is an entry level position into the world of banking, and allows the candidate to explore the career possibilities within the bank. Most importantly, you will represent the bank in the community. First Colorado National Bank is the only bank headquartered in Delta County and has been a pillar of the community since 1903.

Do More of What you Love — love where you work!

EMAIL YOUR RESUME TO:

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HIGH COUNTRY NEWS (hcn.org) seeks a dynamic and creative person to help grow our subscribers and donors. Our future digital marketer will have proven experience in marketing, digital engagement strategies and the creation of web and email campaigns. A love of the West is a must. Generous benefits package offered. Starting salary range DOE: $36,600$55,000. Remote work considered for the right candidate. To apply, email letter and resume to Gretchen King at gretchenk@hcn. org. For information, visit: http://hcn.org/digitalmarketer. (4x3)

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Buying or selling? Place a Classified Ad. Call 874-4421.

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D2 Wednesday, January 17, 2018

CLASSIFIEDS

Help Wanted

HELP WANTED: THE City of Delta’s Police Department is now accepting applications for the position of Custodian. Position is Part-Time, $12.39/hour. Custodian will perform duties that involve keeping assigned building and grounds clean and orderly; prepare rooms for meetings; may be required to make minor repairs and perform other assigned duties. Experience and training requires High School graduate or equivalent, and one year of janitorial experience; related vocational or trade school training is desirable. Working schedule includes �� evenings, weekends and �� some holidays. Must pos�� sess a valid Colorado driver’s license. Selected �� applicant will be required �� to successfully pass a pre�� employment drug screen, and background check. �� Submit completed City of �� Delta employment applica�� tion to City of Delta, Attn: Human Resources, 360 �� Main St., Delta, CO 81416 by Tuesday at 4:30 p.m., January 23, 2018. Do not drop off applications at the Delta Police Department. Applications and a comPublic plete job description are Public available at the above Service Service address or online at www. cityofdelta.net. Incomplete applications or applications submitted after the dead- IF YOU LOVE BOOKS, HOW DO I SELL MY line will not be considered. you will love the Downstairs Cottage Food products? Bookstore in the basement You may sell your products EOE (1x3) of the Delta Public Library. directly to the consumer from your residence, roadside stand, Farmers’ market, community supported agricultural organizations, Miscellaneous Miscellaneous or other similar venue. If you have any questions, please call: 874-2165. Delta County Health Department. (4X3) Colorado Statewide �� THE DELTA COUNTY Network Independent runs these To place a 25-word COSCAN Network ad in 91 Colorado items as a public service newspapers for only $300, contact your local newspaper or free of charge for non-profit call SYNC2 Media at 303-571-5117. organizations, if no fees are �� charged. However, each ��, Cash for Mineral Rights group is asked to please �� keep them current by call�� Call:�� ing 874-4421.

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Public Service

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

Delta County Independent

Public Service

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

FREE DIAPERS FOR UP to one year! Pregnant women in Delta County can now get help to quit smoking and get something they can really use after their baby arrives — free diapers. Healthy moms have healthy babies. Enroll in the Baby & ALCOHOLICS ANONY- Me Tobacco Free program mous meets Thursdays at 7 today. Contact the Delta p.m. Friends of Bill W. Club. County Health Department 897 Palmer Street, Delta. at 874-2165 or your local CO FATHER’S NETWORK- physician. dedicated to providing SUPPORT THE DELTA community and education Public Library. Give a gently to fathers of special needs used book in the Downstairs kids. Meets twice monthly Book Store. on the 1st Saturday at 11 a.m. and the 3rd Monday WELCOME RETURNING at 6:30 p.m. - 511 E. 10th St, Veterans, Post 9221 VFW Delta. See our website for meets at 5:00 p.m. on the more details: www.codads. 4th Thursday of each month org in Cedaredge. To find out how to participate in proAL-ANON AND ALATEEN: moting patriotism and Hope and help for families assisting veterans, contact and friends of alcoholics Wayne Hamrick, (970) 250meets in Delta: Al-Anon and 1180. Alateen, Tuesdays at 7:30 pm, St. Luke’s Episcopal AARP DRIVER SAFETY Church, 145 W. 5th St., con- Course. Save on insurance, tact Elizabeth 970-874-9832 keep up on newer traffic or Shirley 970-323-5067. laws, learn defensive driving techniques. For details CARING FOR CARE- and schedule contact John givers, C4C - support- Loring (970) 856-6924 or ing hearts that care. Open (970) 424-1778. to ANY caregiver. Meets monthly in Delta, 2nd AL-ANON: HOPE AND Tuesday at 11 a.m. - 511 E. help for families and 10th St, Delta. friends of alcoholics meets in Cedaredge: Al-Anon, THE ABRAHAM CONNEC- Thursdays, 8 pm, Wick Hall tion homeless shelter, behind First Baptist Church, located at 480 Silver St., 370 W. Main St., contact Delta, offers emergency Mary M. 970-856-6123 or overnight shelter and food Jim 970-874-7855. to men, women and families in the Delta area mid- HOTCHKISS-CRAWFORD October- April. Call us at Historical Museum. Winter 970-773-8290 to make a hours, Saturdays 1-4 p.m. referral, or for informa- $3 admission or free to tion on how to volunteer members. Come see our or donate. www.Delta museum at 2nd & Hotchkiss A b r a h a m C o n n e c t i o n . Streets in Hotchkiss. 872org. 3780.

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AL-ANON: HOPE AND help for families and friends of alcoholics meets in Hotchkiss: Al-Anon, Mondays at 6:30 pm, Methodist Church 285 N. 2nd, contact Elsie 970-2108090 or Marjorie 970-4331856. CHAPTER, UNITS OF DAV regular meetings on the second Monday of each month at 7 p.m. at the Veterans Building, 15th & Howard, Delta. For further information, call Paul Carter 874-5150.

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.

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 WOMEN ONLY AA MEET- CHECK OUT THE BOOK Ave., Short Hills, NJ 07078 ings, Delta, Saturdays, 11:00 store at the library. You'll or send them to: Gale a.m., at St. Luke's Episcopal find a great selection of Conger, Secretary of IOOF Church, 5th & Palmer (back paperbacks at reasonable Lodge #116, 544 St. Hwy. door). prices. 548, Delta, CO 81416.

FARM WORKER HEALTH Services: We offer assistance with medical, dental and medicines. If you work in agriculture you may qualify for our services. For more information call 3230538.

THE DELTA COUNTY Democratic Party invites you to visit their Facebook page for announcements, information and intelligent discussion of issues. You are not alone! Contact www.facebook.com/pages/ CO-Delta-County-Democrat s/109082339170167.

NARCOTICS ANONY- AL-ANON: HOPE AND mous meets at 9th and help for families and Palmer, Delta, Mondays and friends of alcoholics Fridays at 8 p.m. meets in Paonia: Al-Anon, DELTA FOOD PANTRY Wednesdays at 7 pm, needs meals for Delta fami- United Methodist Church, lies who are temporarily 3rd & Onarga, contact Lisa in need. Donations of non- 970-395-3608, Chris 970perishable food may be 527-3366 or Marjorie 970433-1856 brought to 628 Meeker.

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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 difTHERE IS A VFW MEETING ference you can make in on the first Monday of each someone’s life as a disaster month. At 6 p.m. there is a volunteer. potluck and the meeting is at 7 p.m. at the First Baptist DELTA HAS A BOOKChurch, 1250 Pioneer Rd., store in the basement of Delta. For further infor- the library featuring gently mation, call 874-8172 Jim used books and magazines. Baker, Quartermaster. Come check it out!

HEALTHY BABIES START with early prenatal care. Delta County Health Department. Offers access to immediate, temporary Medicaid for pregnant women who qualify. 8742165.

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HELP!!! KEEP THE animal population under control, and SAVE an animal's life. Adopt your new cat or dog from the Delta County Humane Society. Adoption fee is minimal. Call 874-2149.

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.

Be a Know-It-All Ne Delta

Public Service

BOOKS MAKE GREAT stocking stuffers. Find books at great prices in the basement of the Delta Public Library.

SERVICIOS DE SALUD De Campesinos: Ofrecemos ayuda con doctores, dentistas, y medicinas. Si trabajas en agricultura puedes calificar para nuestros servicios. Para mas informacion llame al 323-0538. SUPPORT THE DELTA Public Library. Give a gently used book in the Downstairs Book Store.

Subscribe Today! Starting at just $26 per year (in-county senior rate)

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401 Meeker St. | Delta 970-874-4421 www.deltacountyindependent.com

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PUBLIC NOTICES

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Delta County Independent

B A Traveling miles to improve smiles C K P A G E J

BY TAMIE MECK Staff Writer

Photo submitted

Assisted by wife Andrea, retired Paonia dentist Tom Hanel provides care to a young Guatemalan girl. This is the second dental mission the Hanels have taken with Time & Talents for Children.

ennifer Kendall has long dreamed of using her professional skills for a higher purpose. A certified dental hygienist, last October she realized her dream when she signed up for a dental mission trip with retired Paonia dentist Tom Hanel and wife Andrea. Traveling with the nonprofit Time & Talents for Children, they spent five days providing basic dental care and education to impoverished children in Guatemala. For Jenni, a wife, mother of two grown children and owner of Brilliant Smiles Dental Hygiene in Paonia, Guatemala is the farthest from home she’s ever traveled, and the furthest she’s ever been from her comfort zone. “It was exciting to not know what was coming next,” she said. She vowed not to complain, and when conditions were hot and the work exhausting, she kept on smiling. Tom and Andrea Hanel grew up in Wisconsin. He earned his degree in dental surgery from Marquette University in 1974, and in 1979 they bought a dental practice and moved to Paonia. Four years ago they sold the practice and retired. With their kids grown and no business to run, for the first time in their lives they had time on their hands. Tom learned about Time & Talents through a former classmate in Wisconsin, who was looking for donations of dental tools. When they met again at an eighth grade class reunion, she and her husband invited him on a trip. At first he declined, but in talking it over, Andi wanted to go. In 2015 she traveled with Paonia Friends Church to Mexico on a humanitarian trip. They built a house for a family fleeing the violence of the Mexican drug wars. “That was amazing,” she said. “In four days they built a house.” Since trips depart from Chicago, they also could use the trip to visit their daughter and twin grandsons in Wis-

consin. In 2016 the Hanels went with Time & Talents to Honduras. When they got home they told Jenni, who worked as a hygienist in Tom’s office for about eight years, about the experience. She promised herself she would go if they took another trip. From Chicago they flew to Guatemala City via Panama City, then rode to Panajachel, “Pana,” for short, where they met a group of Texas doctors with Time & Talents. Pana is located on Lake Atitlan, created when water filled a volcano after it went extinct some 85,000 years ago. The locals said that because the water is very acidic, there are no fish in the lake, said Andi. A distant volcano visible from Pana belched smoke and ash daily. The ancient Mayan culture is visible everywhere, said Andi. Even the modern-day Maya people are very small like their ancestors. From Pana they traveled about 45 minutes by van to the remote mountain town of Panimatzal, where they set up a makeshift dental facility in a large oneroom community building. Rather than work in cities where there is access to health care, Time & Talents sends teams to isolated areas where care is needed the most, said Tom. The Texas contingency said that for this reason, they prefer this organization over others. Tom agrees. By traveling outside of the city, he said, “We feel like we really did some good.” It took a year to collect all of the items they needed. And they needed a lot. “You forget that you need 12 things to do one filling,” said Tom. Once they learned the items were for humanitarian purposes, dentists and dental manufacturing companies were very generous. Dr. Falan Waisath, the dentist who bought Tom’s practice, helped tremendously, said Tom. The only equipment they had was what they could carry on the plane. Because Copa Airlines allows two bags of up to 50 pounds, plus carry-

Photo submitted

Tom and Andrea Hanel pose with a local weaver in Panajachel, Guatemala. The woman wove the table runner for Andrea in 20 hours.

Photo submitted

Paonia dental hygienist Jennifer Kendall enjoys time with a young Guatemalan girl who brought her favorite stuffed animal, a Colorado Rockies bear, with her to the clinic. She called the mission trip “a life-changing experience.” on, they packed their personal belongings in carry-ons and filled suitcases with instruments. Jennifer packed a mobile dental unit weighing almost 50 pounds. Conditions were very different from what they were used to back home. A generator they hauled with them supplied power. The facility lacked dental chairs, which meant a lot of uncomfortable stooping and bending. “You just made do,” said Tom, who spent the first three days working in a stadium chair, using the beverage holder to keep track of instruments. They eventually brought in swivel chairs with wheels, which helped. Andi, who worked as Tom’s assistant, suffered the most. On day four, her back gave out. A head cold Tom caught just before their flight stayed with him all week. “I was living on Nyquil and Dayquil,” he said. Because Spanish is the language of Guatemala, but there are many variations of dialect, they were provided an interpreter. Despite the challenges and limited resources, over five days the team extracted 275 baby teeth and 138 adult teeth, filled more than 100 cavities, and performed 34 cleanings and 71 fluoride treatments. On one day alone they saw 130 patients. To determine individual needs, patients received a physical and dental checkup — with no X-ray equipment they basically shined a flashlight in their mouths, said Tom. The care they were able to provide was more than they were able to do the previous year, said Tom. Without a mobile dental unit and anesthetics, they pulled a lot of teeth. “Sometimes that’s all you can do,” said Tom. This year, they were able to provide fillings, thanks in large part to access to anesthetics, and save a lot of permanent teeth. While doing a physical they discovered one little boy had a severely deformed foot that required corrective surgery. One of the doctors referred him to a hospital, and he had his surgery in December. As word of the clinic spread, more families began arriving. After treating the children, volunteers had time to see their parents. Guatemalans drink a lot of Coca Cola, and as a result, “Decay is ram-

pant,” said Tom. One woman required 10 fillings, which he said he was grateful he could provide. Another woman brought her 19-year-old daughter, a tiny girl with severe disabilities. She also had painful dental problems, but without a proper facility, “We were just out of our league with her,” said Tom. “There’s no way we could do it.” The girl was referred to a facility in Guatemala City, and the people of the community raised enough money to pay for her trip and her care. While conditions were tough, Time & Talents provided comfortable and safe accommodations. Each day began with an early breakfast. Teams then loaded up the vans and headed for the mountains on primitive dirt roads. The last 20 minutes of the drive were the roughest. After their arrival in Pana, a flash flood from a “horrendous” rain storm blocked the main road to the clinic. The detour added a bumpy 40 minutes to the drive. The next day the main road was open and a man and young boy were clearing the debris with shovels. Poverty is rampant in the area, and many residents eke out a living making traditional arts and crafts to sell to tourists. It was important for them to support the local artists, said Andi. Among her souvenirs is a wool table runner on which a local woman worked 20 hours to weave for her. “They’re hard-working people,” said Andi. Farming is

all done by hand, much of it in the tradition of companion plantings of beans, corn and squash. They also grow banana trees and large gardens that create a patchwork of color of the mountainside landscapes. Team members also packed baby clothes and quilts and other items in their suitcases to give to families with children. Teenaged kids of the Texas doctors brought nail polish for the girls, and provided crafts for the local children while they waited for treatment. One teenage boy, also a Boy Scout, packed 501 pairs of shoes to give to the locals for his Eagle Scout project. “They were thrilled,” said Jennifer. One young boy picked out a pair of red Air Jordan high tops that were far too big. He refused to let them go, even while getting a tooth filled. “He was crying, but he would not let go.” In a nearby community a Time & Talents construction crew built a playground and climbing wall at the local school, using tools they packed in their suitcases. The mayor of the town threw an elaborate celebration. While some of their group went, the Paonia contingency stayed behind to work. “We wanted to go and they would have let us go,” said Jenni. “But we had so many kids we needed to finish with.” One of the photos their teammates brought back from the party was of the little boy with the red high tops. “He was lifting the cuffs of his pants to show everyone his new shoes,” she said. In looking back, she said, she had no regrets about missing the party. Like the Hanels, she said the experiences have made her a more humble and grateful person and have helped her put her own life’s goals into perspective. “It was lifechanging,” she said. She’s already planning for her next trip. The most amazing part of the trip, she said, is that despite having almost nothing, the people they met and helped were so grateful. “It was so rewarding because they were so happy. They were so thankful for anything that you did,” she said. And while the interpreter was always nearby, “You didn’t have to be able to speak their language to get them to smile.”

Paonia dental professionals Tom Hanel and Jennifer Kendall (second and third from left) pose last October with Time & Talents members in a makeshift dental clinic near Panajachel, Guatemala, where they provided basic dental care to indigent children and their families. Also pictured, from left, volunteers Donna Moberg, Terri Heidtke, Dr. William Franta, DDS, and Megan Gretzlock.