Delta County Independent, March 14, 2018 by Delta County Independent

NORTH FORK TIMES

SURFACE CREEK NEWS

MEET THE CANDIDATES Crawford, Hotchkiss council candidates profiled, B1

SPORTS

ANNUAL MIGRATION

ON TO SPRING SPORTS

Eckert Crane Days set for March 16-18, C1

Cedaredge girls wrap up 21-4 basketball season, B7

DELTA COUNTY

MARCH 14, 2018 VOL. 135, NO. 11

75¢

INDEPENDENT

www.deltacountyindependent.com

City takes steps to clarify ballot measures BY PAT SUNDERLAND Managing Editor

The two marijuana questions on the City of Delta’s municipal ballot are creating confusion, as predicted by several council members. Although it is not legal to sell retail marijuana or to conduct a commercial grow operation in city limits, the city is asking voters to approve taxation on both those possibilities. At a candidate forum earlier this month, Ron Austin, mayor pro-tem, explained, “This was done as a way to get ahead of the game in the event that a marijuana petition was signed and approved and came to the voters.” Depending on the timing of the petition, it could be a year before the city could enact a tax on marijuana sales, he explained. State statutes allow tax measures to be presented only during a regular municipal election or a coordinated November election. City council and staff have also discussed zoning for marijuana at great length, but decided to shelve a proposed ordinance for now. If retail marijuana and commercial grow operations are ever allowed, either by council or by voters, “we could bring it off the shelf,” Austin explained. “People perceive when you take these measures that you are endorsing marijuana. That is not the case and we tried to make that clear from the get-go.” In response to numerous inquiries about the two ballot questions, the city has added wording to the city website in an attempt to clarify the situation. On Monday, the following verbiage was added to the two

taxation questions under the “Ballot Issues” tab: • These questions are NOT approving the retail sales of marijuana within the City of Delta. • These questions would approve the taxation of marijuana only if marijuana sales are approved in the future. There is no pending ordinance or proposal before the Delta City Council at this time to approve any marijuana sales in the City of Delta. • The City of Delta is limited on which election a TABOR question (such as a tax) can be presented to the voters. These questions are being presented now because the regular city election in April is one of those authorized times. Further questions can be directed to Delta City Hall, 874-7566. To verify voter registration, visit www.govote colorado.com.

Fire season

An out-of-control grass fire in Peach Valley spread to a large garage March 9, destroying about $20,000 worth of ATVs, trailers, river rafts and a riding lawn mower. As Delta firefighters battled the blaze on 1940 Road, the property owner, David Loveland, and his neighbors dumped buckets of water on the perimeter of the fire.

Master Plan review continues BY ANNETTE BRAND Staff Writer

The Delta County Planning Commission continued its page-by-page discussion of the review draft of the Master Plan update at its March 7 meeting at the Maloney House in Hotchkiss. The commission began the discussion of the review draft on Feb. 28. At that meeting the section entitled “Desired Future Conditions,” consisting of a long introductory paragraph and six bullet points, prompted a lot of comments from the commission members over wording, revealing concerns about how some “desired future conditions” would impact on agri-

cultural, residential and other types of development. Elyse Casselberry, county community and economic development director, Kelly Yeager, the county’s contract planner, and Gabe Preston of RPI Consulting, came up with some clearer language, which was handed out March 7: Current Conditions Delta County has no land use regulations to determine where land uses may locate. As a result, there are areas of the county where rural residential, agricultural, industrial, and commercial land are mixed. This mix creates neighborhood conflict, especially when new, more intensive uses

Teresa Nelson announces candidacy for commissioner BY PAT SUNDERLAND Managing Editor

Teresa Nelson, a 17-year resident of Delta County, has announced her candidacy for Delta County Commissioner, District 1. She is a Republican. Nelson grew up in Rangely where she met her husband Mike. He works in Montrose but they chose to live in Delta because of the feeling of neighborliness. She and her family live on a 16-acre parcel in Peach Valley. As the mother of four “amazing” kids, ages 10, 12, 15 and 16, she says she loves that Delta is a familyoriented community. Her work exerience is varied. She’s been a waitress, worked in the finance department at the school district in Rangely, and successfully managed both a restaurant and an airport. Currently she’s a stay-at-home mom with a small cottage business, which has allowed her to be active in the Republican party

INDEX

Accent ........................... A4 Activities ....................... A9 Back Page ................. D10 Bruin Tracks ............. C3-6 Church ........................... D6 Classifieds .................. D1-2 Editorial ......................... A2 Legals ......................... D3-5 North Fork Times ........B1-5 Obituaries ..................... A8 School Zone ............... A6-7 Service Directory ........ D9 Sports ..........................B7-8 Surface Creek News ...C1-3 TV Listings ................. D7-8

Photo by Pat Sunderland

at different levels. She has been involved in politics since a young age. “I believe as a conservative Republican woman, I have a valuable perspective to add to the Board of County Commissioners,” she said. “I think the job of county commissioners is a very unique position,” she said. “I

Teresa Nelson

feel there is no job out there that would fully prepare you for it. It’s kind of like folding a fitted sheet. No one really knows how. We just roll up our sleeves and do it.” Her experience in finance and airport management, plus a background of working with people would all be beneficial, but she believes her most important trait is her willingness to learn. “I am applying for a job,” she said. “The voters are the ones who decide if I am qualified to best represent them in the office of the county commissioner. “If elected, I will work for the people of Delta County. I would make it a priority to be available for them. They are the boss.” Republican Mike Lane previously declared his candidacy for the same office. Each must receive 30 percent of the delegate votes at county assembly to be placed on the June 26 primary ballot.

are proposed. Proposed Policy Statement: A new regulatory system is needed to address future conflicts that are likely to continue between rural residential, agricultural, industrial, and commercial uses. This regulatory system should identify what range of land uses are permitted and where different types of land uses are allowed. Property owners across the county should be allowed to actively participate in determining permitted land uses for their property based on new land use regulations that are fair and predictable. Casselberry said the focus of the first four bullet points in the current document, the capsule of which is contained in the proposed policy statement above, will be mostly the same for all categories of use. Planning commission chairman Bob Stechert added, “Different development areas have similar characteristics.

This part of the Master Plan update we are discussing is descriptive; some regulation will develop downstream.” Planning commission member Tony Prendergast said he would like to see the resource conservation plan, written by Yeager in an earlier plan, returned to the Master Plan update. He would like to see hunting and wildlife included in the plan, both being important to people in Delta County. Stechert noted the need to adopt regulations for remote areas where there are no services and in high fire areas. Owners of such property may have to accept personal responsibility in those cases, he said. Bob Pennetta, a member of an area planning committee, said the county is losing development because the owner doesn’t know what he has to go through. Prendergast said the county needs broad zoning MASTER PLAN TO A3

Strong participation reported at caucuses BY PAT SUNDERLAND Managing Editor

Representatives of the Delta County Republican and Democratic parties say they are pleased with the level of participation in the county caucuses held March 6. Roger Bentley, chairman of the Delta County Republican Party, said about 150 party members gathered in two locations. Bentley chaired the caucus at Delta High School, and party secretary Betty Oglesby chaired the gathering at Hotchkiss High School. In a new format, caucuses opened with a joint session that included introductions and a video presentation put

together by county treasurer Lisa Tafoya. The video featured unedited comments from all the candidates who responded to the party’s invitation. The precincts then met separately and got down to the task at hand, selecting delegates for upcoming assemblies. No straw polls were taken. “Overall I think the two joint meetings went well, but we did have some suggestions that we should also have a meeting in the Cedaredge area, to allow for more grassroots involvement,” Bentley said. CAUCUSES TO A3

Health Fairs

Hospital election

BHRC turns 25

The series of three Health Fairs offered by Delta County Memorial Hospital began in Paonia this week and continues Thursday, March 15, at Bill Heddles Recreation Center. Blood draws, blood pressure screenings and other services will be offered from 6:30 to 11 a.m. In addition, vendors will be on hand with giveaways and information about health-related services. The third and final Health Fair takes place Friday, March 16, at the Cedaredge Civic Center from 6:30 to 10 a.m. For more information, visit the hospital website at www.deltahospital.org.

Elections for special districts throughout Delta County are scheduled for May 8. But only one — Delta County Memorial Hospital — has a sufficient number of candidates to trigger an election. All others have cancelled their elections, citing no more candidates than offices to be filled. For the hospital board, six candidates have declared interest in the three fouryear terms to be filled: Bruce Mixter, Wayne Wolf, Doug Speedie, Tammy Smith, Robert Stechert and Dick Gilmore. Jim Briscoe, Dory Funk and Bill Hellman are coming off the hospital board.

Bill Heddles Recreation Center is celebrating its 25th anniversary with activities throughout the year. The festivities begin Thursday, March 15, when the rec center hosts Business After Hours. Chamber members and friends are invited to meet the recreation center’s management team and network with other local businesses at this event. Open to all is a photo contest. The deadline is Friday, March 16, so don’t delay in stopping by the recreation center for an information packet.

A2 Wednesday, March 14, 2018

OPINION

LETTERS Facts do not matter to Bill Brunner Dear Editor: Mr. Brunner is a former Paonia town trustee. He resigned on June 14, 2017. When he resigned, the board was considering his removal for violating “state statutes, the Paonia Municipal Code, and the Rules of Procedure adopted by the board.” He is now running for re-election. Facts do not matter to Bill Brunner. On Oct. 29, 2015, Mr. Brunner appeared on the Buchanan Report and claimed that $250,000 was stolen from the town in 2013. He stated that “a quarter of a million dollars disappeared in 2013 while the person being held for the earlier theft was already in jail.” He went on to accuse members of the current board of being “duped or complicit” in the theft. The truth is Kristin Chesnik stole money from the town from 2005-2011. No theft occurred in 2013. The only thing that happened in 2013 was that the board, which did not include any current members, wrote off a $250,000 account receivable generated by the Chesnik theft. The accounting entry was clearly explained in the 2013 audit. Despite this, Mr. Brunner made his

It’s time for a change in Orchard City Dear Editor: The time is coming for the election in Orchard City. If you like how the town is being run, then put those people who are running it back and give them more tax money to do so. If you are like I am, I am not happy. When I go to the meetings, they will not allow me to even talk. That’s why I think we need to change things. Lawrence Thompson Orchard City

outrageous allegations. During his campaign in 2016, Mr. Brunner mailed a letter to Paonia voters stating that the town’s former clerk who was suing the town following her removal “may have a very good case,” that the town’s insurance coverage was “capped at $100,000” and “if she wins there could be a liability of $900 per household.” Clearly, he wanted to create the impression that the citizens of Paonia were financially at risk. The truth was the town had $5,000,000 in coverage, the former clerk’s case had no merit and her case was dismissed by the court. The town was awarded its costs. When Mr. Brunner was running in 2016, the fact that the town receives no net income from the airport was discussed. Mr. Brunner objected to the town attempting to increase its revenue from the airport. During these discussions, Mr. Brunner denied owning an airplane. He was technically correct but misleading; he owned a glider. On May 24, 2017, on KVNF and in a letter to the editor in the DCI, Mr. Brunner claimed that “negotiations regarding the Hawks Haven road agreement were carried out with the involvement of three elected officials who excluded the rest of the board in the process.” He claimed that “town business was being conducted in secret by a subgroup of trustees.” All of this was apparently based upon an innocent mistake a board member made when he accidently copied two other board members on an email reply to the town attorney. The Hawks Haven road issue was discussed for years in committee meetings, open meetings, and executive sessions. The board, including Mr. Brunner, discussed the

Candidate corrects errors Dear Editor: There are several errors in Mr. Smith’s reported interview with me which appeared in the March 7 DCI. • I moved from Denver to Cedaredge 20 years ago and have lived in Orchard City for the best part of 15 years. • I am no longer a licensed clinical social worker, having retired nearly eight years ago and subsequently allowing my licensed to expire. • I have not been a licensed insurance producer for over 12 years. • I have two master’s degrees, one a master’s degree in social work (MSW) and the other in business administration (MBA). • I moved to Denver from South Dakota having resigned my posi-

tion as executive director of the Mental Health Center in Winner, S.D. My mother had already died a number of months before my move. I moved to Denver to pursue the MBA and spend time with my father who was in failing health. • I have never overseen emergency mental health services on the Western Slope. I did work for the Center for Mental Health in several different capacities, retiring after 9 1/2 years in the position of director of quality improvement. There are several other comments in Mr. Smith’s article that are not quite accurate; however, I will address those in a future letter to the editor. Bob Eckels Orchard City Dear Editor: Measure 2A on the Crawford ballot for April 3 is in reference to a marijuana tax to be implemented only if the sale of recreational ers in Orchard City then marijuana was approved you’ve seen that there by the voters. The ballot are “against” comments issue has a lot of legal attached to each initiawording, which makes it tive. All three of those hard to understand. The “against” comments were board of trustees of the authored by me, and Mel Town of Crawford put and Doug are in complete this issue on the ballot agreement with me. to ensure that the Town I believe we must of Crawford could assess uphold the will of the and collect sales tax on people expressed in all recreational marijuaall elections but I also na sales. This does not believe the trustees have open the door to retail a lot of work ahead of marijuana shops. them to reduce expendiAlso, there are numertures before asking our ous rumors out there citizens to dig deep into about the town impletheir pockets. I hope menting a municipal there is no longer a quescourt. This is only a tion about where I stand rumor. on any of the three taxWe encourage everyation issues before the one to vote in the April 3 town. election. Jan Gage Wanda Gofforth Orchard City Crawford

Let there be no question Dear Editor: My name is Jan Gage and I am running for trustee in Orchard City in the election which closes April 3. In the last few days some of my friends and I have been approached by Orchard City citizens who have expressed concern about where I stand on the issue of commercial marijuana grow operations and retail dispensaries within Orchard City. Please let me be clear: I and my two running mates Doug Keller and Mel Cook are firmly against all three initiatives on the ballot for Orchard City. In fact, if you’ve had time to read the Notice of Election sent to all registered vot-

proposed agreement in detail in an executive session immediately prior to its approval. Mr. Brunner voted to approve the agreement. In a letter to the editor published in the DCI on June 21, 2017, Mr. Brunner stated that I “acted beyond” my “office by improper participation in an employee complaint.” He has again asserted this claim. Without going into the details, my role was limited to communicating with the employee as directed by CIRSA, the town’s insurance carrier. Mr. Brunner is well aware of this fact. In recent letters Mr. Brunner and his wife have attacked Trustee Bradford for the work that Trustee Bradford has done to revitalize the area around the miner’s statue in the park. In doing so, the Brunners misstated the cost of the project, the amount of public involvement, and the requirements of the board’s purchasing policy. They also defamed Trustee Bradford’s character. In his candidate profile, which appeared in the March 7 DCI, Mr. Brunner states, “I believe there have been unorthodox changes to the town’s books. I asked the auditor to examine a particular group of transactions and verify that nothing is amiss.” Mr. Brunner is again suggesting corruption or incompetence where none exists. The town’s books have been thoroughly audited by a highly qualified accounting firm. Mr. Brunner’s false statements described in this letter are only some of the false statements he has made. Mr. Brunner’s false statements are very damaging to the town. First, without accurate information, the public cannot make informed decisions. Second, many of Mr. Brunner’s statements are defamatory. The town needs good people to serve on the board, and it needs to retain qualified staff. Good people won’t continue to serve and qualified staff will leave if they are forced to spend their time fighting false accusations regarding their competency and ethics. If the people of the town want good government, they must demand that this irresponsible behavior end. Charles Stewart Mayor Town of Paonia

Tax question does not open door to marijuana

Delta County Independent

Don’t be enticed by promise of marijuana tax Dear Editor: This will undoubtedly create some discussion, but I hope that it clears up some questions and concerns. As a proud Delta City Council member, I feel compelled to address the upcoming ballot initiative for the City of Delta re: the taxation of marijuana. There was a lot of discussion regarding the need to try and get ahead of the issues if the legalization to grow and sell marijuana within the city limits was presented and approved by the voters through a ballot initiative. From the onset of those discussions, I had a concern that by placing the taxation and ordinance on the ballot, it could be interpreted as an endorsement by your city council. Nothing could have been further from the truth. During the drafting of the initiative, I was aware of the time frames involved in getting a tax initiative

on the ballot and that became a driving force. Unfortunately, I was not aware of the issues outlined in the next paragraph. After completing the taxation issue for the ballot, I became aware that other Colorado Municipalities had taken similar anticipatory measures that were later used against them as leverage by marijuana proponents. Voters in those municipalities viewed the “in place taxation and ordinance” as an endorsement of marijuana by the municipality. At the time of learning that information, Delta’s marijuana tax initiative was already submitted for the ballot, but the ordinance had not been approved. I recommended that the ordinance be shelved, and that is where it sits today. I have publicly addressed these concerns on several occasions in an attempt to clarify the taxation and ordinance confusion.

It was recently brought to my attention that the confusion not only still exists, but has gotten more prevalent as the election gets closer. Some of the concerns included: Are my taxes going to go up if this passes?” and “Does this mean that you are in favor of marijuana?” No! They are not and No! I am not in favor in any way, shape or form. For these reasons and as a citizen of Delta, I am urging a “NO” vote on the ballot initiative. Let’s be proud of the fact that our community is not like other communities and take pride in knowing that we are not. I am fully aware that the proponents are attempting to use “the revenue” as enticement, but the costs are ignored. There are many other ways that we as a community can come together to generate revenue and still maintain the Delta that we all love. Ron Austin Delta

Delta’s leaders must understand risks of marijuana Dear Editor: Our community is crying out to understand what to do about drugs and suicide among our youth. On Feb. 28, I attended a public event organized by a coalition of leadership from District 50 administration, Center for Mental Health, Delta County Sheriff ’s Office, represented by both the sheriff and undersheriff. Also represented was Delta County Memorial Hospital, hospice and pastors of local churches. A tragic testimonial was given by a parent whose son recently committed suicide. In attendance were 80 to 100 people who were there to hear what our community leaders are trying to do about the suicide epidemic that is taking our children. Two days prior to this event at the Performing Arts Center was another open public forum speaking on the same topics regarding addiction, mental health, crime, emergency room incidents and suicide. Speakers at this forum were Undersheriff Mark Taylor and Dr. Kevin Pulispher. A testimonial was given by grandparents of a recent suicide linked to marijuana and other drugs. Also, in the audience were three city councilmen, pastors and past county commissioner, as well as other community

leaders. On March 1, a meet the candidate presentation was at the Performing Arts Center. This meeting was to allow the public to ask questions of Kevin Carlson, Nathan Clay and Jay Stooksberry, the three individuals running for seats on the Delta City Council. When a question was posed by a constituent who is in touch with the real concerns of what the citizens are talking about, Jay Stooksberry and Nathan Clay’s responses seemed disconnected from the entire community and its deep concerns. So here is one of the questions asked of the

three candidates: You have mentioned positive revenue benefits from the retail, manufacturing and commercial growing of marijuana in the city limits of Delta. What are the negative risks to our children and risks regarding addiction? Kevin Carlson’s response seemed a bit unclear. I think he is not for legalization of recreational marijuana. Nathan Clay’s response seemed weak on his understanding as to the highly documented negative effects of marijuana’s use by our children as relates to mental health and addiction. RISK OF MARIJUANA TO A5

A vote for Jay Stooksberry Dear Editor: I am voting for Jay Stooksberry. I moved here over five years ago and wanted to get involved in Delta. I was on a Business Improvement District committee soon after I moved from Minnesota. Jay was also a participant of the BID. He and his family had just opened a business in town and he mentioned the difficulty of the process of starting a new business in Delta. We all wanted to see a town which was moving forward yet retaining the small town atmosphere. He always was a thoughtful, considerate and concerned citizen.

It does not surprise me that he is running for city council. I know he will research issues and make the best decisions for Delta. As a member of this community I want to be able to trust someone in this position who will be committed to the betterment of our town. One of his topics of concern is Delta’s economic development and the need to review Delta’s permitting process and reduce costs in line with surrounding towns. He is a family man who wants to raise his son in Delta. We need Jay Stooksberry on the city council of Delta. Jean Stortz Delta

Stooksberry demonstrates ability, desire to serve Dear Editor: Jay Stooksberry has shown in several ways that he has the ability, desire and leadership skills to be the person we need for a position on our city council. As an at-large representative, Jay has reached out to many residents to hear their concerns. I have been interested in what solutions he also has to offer. These solutions are forward thinking for our community as we transition and grow. Delta wants to attract people to our area. Others, who also want to invest in our community, will be those who stay and raise their families, attend our

DELTA COUNTY

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

schools and open new businesses. As a former business owner of CB’s Tavern on Main Street, Jay has experienced some of the challenges that come along with small business ownership and he wants changes for those that will come after him. I have found Jay to be willing to listen to all sides of an issue and I appreciate his representation on the chamber board where he advocates thoughtfully and with purpose for the existing businesses in our community. His tireless involvement in the community through orga-

nizations such as Region 10, the Delta Area Chamber of Commerce and as a planning commissioner for the City of Delta, to name just a few, shows that he is a man of service and integrity who truly wants the best for Delta. I respect the time and effort that he has already put into our community and I look forward to where his experience can take us. I know he will continue to serve the council and constituents with the same passion he exhibits in all of his endeavors. Jessica Carlson Delta

KUDOS A real blessing Dear Editor: Thanks to Fred Carson with Carson Shelter Insurance for sponsoring us on a monthly basis and doing a food drive for us at his office. We also would like to thank the Delta County Independent for all the wonderful ads they have run for us. They have been a real blessing. We are so grateful we could distribute 43 meals this week. King’s Table Soup Kitchen PO Box 84, Delta 250-6637

LOCAL NEWS

Delta County Independent

Wednesday, March 14, 2018

DPD officers jump into firefighting mode BY PAT SUNDERLAND Managing Editor

It must be March in Delta County. Columns of smoke dot the landscape, a breeze carries an odor of burning, and the sound of sirens punctuates an otherwise peaceful day. The burning of fields and ditches is considered essential to agricultural operations, and so it is allowed in rural areas of Delta County — as long as the property owner first calls the burn line to ensure weather conditions are optimal. When the wind picks up, as it does many afternoons, a controlled burn soon becomes anything but. When firefighters respond to an out-of-control burn, law enforce-

Anglers to hear from CPW biologist Gunnison Gorge Anglers general membership meeting will be held at 7 p.m. Thursday, March 15, at Needle Rock Brewing Company 820 Highway 92, Delta. Colorado Parks and Wildlife aquatic biologist Eric Gardunio will provide the program detailing his latest work with our local waters. GGA members are encouraged to bring as many guests as they can round up for what is always an interesting and very informative presentation. All ages are welcome to attend and there is no charge for admission. Beverages will be available for purchase during the meeting and those wishing to have dinner should arrive early and order off the menu in the dining room.

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ment is not far behind. In the case of a grass fire in North Delta on March 2, Officers Clint Swope, Cody Hammon and Nick Buffington were first on the scene. While his fellow officers contacted residents in the 800 block of 1550 Road, Officer Hammon grabbed a garden hose and began spraying the area behind a garage to keep the fire from reaching the structure. The fire burned the grass around a nearby unoccupied home, then spread to a fence and a garage at 814 1550 Road. At this point, Officer Swope wrote in his report, the wind picked up and the fire moved north across the field and toward 824 1550 Road.

Planning commission has two vacancies

Mark Lee and Richard Simmons have been re-appointed to the Delta Planning Commission, leaving two spots still to be filled. Carl Jahn’s three-year term also expired, but he declined to apply for another term. The planning commission is comprised of seven members appointed by Delta City Council. Glen Black, communi-

ty development director, noted that four of the five members must be present to constitute a quorum, so he’s hoping to fill the two vacancies soon. After the vote affirming Simmons and Lee’s appointments, council member Gerald Roberts said he is aware of one individual who is interested in applying for the planning commission. For an application, stop by Delta City Hall.

officers confirmed Curtis had called the burn line, and there were no red flag warnings, they decided charges were not warranted. “Our officers did a

fantastic job,” said Delta Police Chief Luke Fedler. “Once they’d addressed public safety, they moved into firefighting mode.” Fedler said one resident suffered smoke

inhalation and was transported to Delta County Memorial Hospital by ambulance. Damage to fences, a garage and a shed totaled about $5,000.

participate in the process through intergovernmental agreements with the county. All of the county’s municipalities are in the process of updating their own planning documents. Both municipalities and the county are looking for a better system with which they can interact. The municipal quarterly meetings may be that vehicle. At present Orchard City and Crawford have no intergovernmental agreement with the county. Yeager said, “If development occurs in the county, we can work it out as it develops if the county understands what the municipality’s policies are.” Casselberry will send the results of Wednesday evening’s work to Gabe Preston of RPI Consulting for him to incorporate the March 7 comments, accomplish more bridging among the different subject areas, include

more references and provide more connections to the stated core values. The next meeting of the Delta County Planning Commission is scheduled for March 21. Planning commission members are Bob Stechert, Tate Locke, Angela Mackey, Kim Shay, Layne Brones, Tony Prendergast, Steve Shea and Steve Schrock. Jen Sanborn, who was present in the audience, was invited to join the discussion. Sanborn has worked on the review of the Master Plan during her three-year term on the commission, which just expired. Lucinda Stanley was appointed March 5 to fill the seat formerly held by Sanborn. Also present, and invited to join the commission in the discussion, were members of area planning committees: Elisa Greco, Susan Raymond, Steve Wolcott and Bob Pennetta.

Master plan FROM PAGE A1 to accommodate smaller developments. “Basic zoning is doable,” Schrock said. “Projected population growth figures indicate there will be a change in the current characteristics of the county.” Steve Wolcott, a member of an area planning committee, said he hoped for a way for neighbors to have input in what happens. Stechert replied, “We’ll try to accommodate this.” Planning commission member Angela Mackey said, “We will need to wait for these discussions on land use and development regulations until we’re in the Master Plan itself. A lot of these things will fall in place. This is the introduction to the plan. At that future point we can say, ‘As a county, we have decided’.” Casselberry said some of the municipalities have indicated they want to

Caucuses FROM PAGE A1 Democrat Dea Jacobson reports 153 Democrats attended the caucuses. A straw poll for governor’s race was used to apportion delegates to the county convention. Cary Kennedy received 73 votes, or 47.7 percent and 59 votes, or 38.6 percent, went to Jared Polis. Twelve votes were uncommitted, and Mike Johnson received nine votes. “Interestingly, Precinct 17 in Crawford polled for Polis at 83 percent and Kennedy at 17 percent,” Jacobson noted. “My precinct (13), north of Cedaredge was 40 percent Kennedy and 60 percent uncommitted. No poll was required for the 3rd Congressional District race between Hanlon and Busch. Delegates for that race will be determined at the county conventions.

“The caucus/convention system we have in Colorado provides an opportunity for good, old-fashioned grassroots political activity in our communities,” Jacobson noted. The Delta County Democratic Party County Assembly is also Saturday, March 24. Registration begins at 9 a.m., and the assembly starts at 10 a.m. at Memorial Hall in Hotchkiss. Additional information can be found at www.deltadems.org. The Delta County Republican Assembly will convene at 10 a.m. Saturday, March 24, at the Delta Performing Arts Center. Delegate check-in runs from 8 a.m. at 9:45 a.m. Alternate designations will be selected for delegates not present at 9:45 a.m. For more information, visit www.deltagop.com.

DCMH partners with Champions of Rural Health

The Health Resources and Services Administration (HRSA) recently acknowledged seven rural organizations from across the nation as champions in providing high-quality access to health care in rural communities. Families Plus of Delta was named Champion of Innovation in Health Care Delivery. Families Plus was created by therapists who developed an emerging wraparound system of care for children growing up in challenging circumstances. Families Plus now uses wraparound as an evidence-base model to deliver health care. The organization shares the HRSA award with Delta County Memorial Hospital, Stoney Mesa Family Practice and Delta Health and Wellness Center. As a team, these entities are integrating behavioral health into medical offices, allowing clients to receive complete health care.

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After ensuring the safety of the resident of that home, officers again used a hose to spray the fire as it approached a shed. When Delta firefighters arrived on the scene, the police officers continued to assist, unraveling a hose off the back of the fire truck and dragging it toward a field to the west that was now on fire and threatening a large wood pile and a structure. As more firefighters responded, the officers went back to speak with the property owners and begin their investigation. It was determined Buddy Curtis was burning the ditch on his property around noon when the wind picked up and the fire spread. Once

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“These organizations are an essential part of the health care system because they understand their local communities, are able to fill significant health care gaps and ultimately improve the quality of life for those living in rural America,” said HRSA administrator George Sigounas, MS, Ph.D.

Free ‘Irish’ meal for ages 60+ The Delta Senior Center will serve its St. Patrick’s Day meal, sponsored by the Delta Elks Lodge, on Thursday, March 15, starting at 12 noon, at the Delta Senior Center mealsite, 247 Meeker Street. This meal will be served free for those age 60 and over, and no reservation is necessary. This special meal is cooked by senior center kitchen staff, but is one of several during the year generously sponsored by the Delta Elks through a grant from the Grand Lodge. The menu is corned beef and cabbage, cheese mashed potatoes, mixed veggies, homemade roll, and a brownie. Enjoy coffee, tea or milk with your special meal. Don’t be late! Serving ends at 12:30 p.m.

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Shamrockin’ Shenanigans ��

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A4 Wednesday, March 14, 2018

ACCENT

Delta County Independent

Medicare seminar planned March 15 Region 10 and the State Health Insurance Program (SHIP) are offering “Medicare & You,” an informational seminar on how to navigate the Medicare system, on Thursday, March 15, at 6:30 p.m., at Grand Mesa Oncology,

1501 E. 3rd Street, Delta. Seminars are free and no registration is needed. SHIP counselors are also available for one-on-one sessions in the Region 10 service area. To schedule an appointment call 970249-2436, ext. 213. Louis Helbert

�� Helbert �� turns 90 ��

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Louis “Bear” Helbert turns 90 on March 19. Cards may be mailed to him at Willow Tree Care Center, Room #56, 2050 S. Main, Delta, CO 81416. No gifts, please. Helbert and his wife Karen have three daughters, Jenni, Shelly and Mary Jo; and four grandchildren, Dylan, Stevie, Derrick and Tye.

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BIRTHS Shelby and Levi Head of Delta are the parents of a daughter, Freyja Annalise Head, born March 3, 2018, at Delta County Memorial Hospital. She weighed 6 pounds, 15.8 ounces and was 19.5 inches in length. Kendra Cheri Lehr of Eckert is the parent of a son, Tyler Michael Lehr, born March 5, 2018, at Delta County Memorial Hospital. He weighed 7 pounds, 7.8 ounces and was 20.5 inches in length.

Spreading the word

A self-advocacy group from The Arc of West Central Colorado visited businesses in downtown Delta last Friday, spreading the word to replace the “r” word to a new “r” word — respect. Arc of West Central Colorado works to empower individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities to achieve full and satisfying lives through awareness of their rights, responsibility and opportunities. The town walk ended at the Delta Area Chamber of Commerce, where refreshments were served and two short videos were shown.

‘Tortured for Christ’ to be shown at Delta church

“Tortured for Christ,” the dramatic movie based on the true story of Richard Wurmbrand’s stand against Communism and his 14 years in a Communist prison will inspire your soul and strengthen your faith. In 1945, Communists seized power and Thomas and Elizabeth a million Russian troops Knob of Delta are the poured into his beloved parents of a son, James Patrick Knob, born March 7, 2018, at Delta County Memorial Hospital. He weighed 7 pounds, 13 ounces and was 20.5 � �� inches in length.

Romania. Pastor Wurmbrand was captured by the secret police and held as “prisoner #1”! Fourteen years of unthinkable torture in a Communist prison could not break his faith. The movie will be shown at Grand Mesa Bible Church, 710 Crawford Avenue, Delta,

In commemoration of the Easter season, the world is invited to join their voices with the Mormon Tabernacle Choir and Orchestra on Temple Square. This is a momentous gathering of all faiths in a celebration of the birth, life, death and resurrection of Jesus Christ. This event will be broadcast from the Tabernacle on Temple Square

in Salt Lake City, Utah, on Friday, March 23, at 7 p.m. MDT. The concert and sing-along will be approximately two and one-half hours in length with a brief intermission. The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints invites all participants to view and sing in the broadcast event at the church’s meetinghouse located at 1521 Hillcrest Drive in Montrose. The choir and congregations together will sing Handel’s Messiah, a world-renowned orato-

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at 7 p.m. Friday, March 16. The $9 ticket includes a copy of his international bestseller “Tortured for Christ,” to be sent to your home address. See the trailer and buy your tickets ahead of time at www.torturedforchrist. com. Purchasing tickets at the door will have to be done online.

Voices of the world join the Mormon Tabernacle Choir

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Sponsored by:

Photos submitted

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BIRTHS Wesley and McKenzie Jacobson of Hotchkiss are the parents of a daughter, Kenna Monroe Jacobson, born March 7, 2018, at Delta County Memorial Hospital. She weighed 7 pounds, 4 ounces and was 19 inches in length.

rio composed by George Frideric Handel and first performed in 1742. The Montrose meetinghouse will seat over a thousand, and booklets with lyrics to Handel’s Messiah will be available. Singing the Messiah unites Christianity around the globe. The biennial “Messiah Sing” performance in 2016 involved 170,000 people in 190 countries. The choir and orchestra will be conducted by Mack Wilberg. Distinguished soloists for the evening include Amanda Woodbury, soprano; Tamara Mumford, mezzosoprano; Tyler Nelson, tenor; and Tyler Simpson, bass-baritone. Participants in the Messiah Sing can share their pictures and thoughts on the event at #MessiahLive. A certificate of participation in the event can be obtained at motab.org/messiah.

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Note of appreciation

Sadie Williams, center manager for Eckert PACE Volunteers of America, presented Delta Library manager Adriana Chavira with a check for $200 on Thursday, March 8, at Delta Library. Volunteers of America made the donation in appreciation of utilizing community meeting spaces at the library.

LOCAL NEWS

Delta County Independent

Wednesday, March 14, 2018

Forum spotlights three Delta candidates BY PAT SUNDERLAND Managing Editor

A candidate forum held March 1 provided an opportunity for voters to learn more about Delta City Council candidates Nathan Clay, Kevin Carlson and Jay Stooksberry. The forum was hosted by the Delta Area Chamber of Commerce and moderated by Darnell Place-Wise, the chamber’s executive director, and Pat Sunderland of the DCI. Place-Wise provided a brief biography of each candidate, then posed the first question submitted by a member of the audience: “Please define how you define your role of a city council person.” Kevin Carlson explained a city council member is a liaison for the community, and should make decisions that are supported by the community. Nathan Clay said a council member should be proactive, making sure that everyone is moving in the same direction — or a semblance of the same direction. The primary concern should be enacting the will of the people. Stooksberry said a council member is a public servant, someone entrusted with a large amount of resources that taxpayers consider very near and dear. The next question asked for each candidate’s overall vision of a thriving downtown. Nathan Clay cited more occupancy, revitalization of the arbor program and shifting traffic to the bypass so other motorists can slow down and enjoy Main Street more. Clay said the city should create an atmosphere where business owners are encouraged to make improvements, an observation Jay Stooksberry said he agreed

with. He added that people should be encouraged to stop in Delta and spend money here. One idea would be diverting traffic to the bypass for Main Street events like music or movie festivals. He feels the city should be more open minded to all types of business models. Kevin Carlson said there are a lot of vacancies in downtown Delta, but the business owners also need to step up. He commented on the city’s appearance during the summer, when the flowers are in full bloom, but the effort to enhance downtown Delta should be year-round. The next question posed by the moderators: “What skills do you bring to the office?” Jay Stooksberry, a member of the Delta Planning Commission, said he has a knowledge of how local government works, plus the perspective of a business person. He described himself as open-minded and friendly, a person who can be approached. “I will give you my opinion, but I will value your opinion as well,” he said. Carlson was honest: “Government skills ... I have none.” He says those in power, like the city manager and council members, should let the workers work. Clay said he has developed problem-solving skills through his career as a production professional. He is able to think on his feet, to identify problems and attack them with diligence and grace. Communication with the citizens in a fair and honest way is key, he said. “Would citizens feel reengaged if the city brought back citizen boards such as the tree board and the historic preservation board?” “Absolutely,” said Carlson. “When I first came

here there were citizen boards for every sport.” Yet he recognizes the same people were serving on every board. He would like to see involvement from a more diverse group of individuals. Nathan Clay, looking at the small audience, speculated apathy is to blame for the dissolution of citizen boards. “It would be great to have those boards, but people need to feel they are being heard ... people should see that council is an honest conduit to address their concerns.” Regarding the viability of the riverfront hotel project, Clay said, “I think it is going to happen, and it would be a good thing for the community.” He believes the project could help showcase our natural resources. Stooksberry said research shows Delta is losing out on visitor dollars, but he is concerned about using public funds to develop the project. That’s not providing a fair platform for every business to be successful, he said. He’s also skeptical of urban renewal and DURA’s financial obligation. Carlson’s answer was brief: “Yes, I support the hotel.” The next question: “How do you propose to attract new businesses? How would you make it easier to start a business in Delta?” Stooksberry was the first to respond. “Delta has unfortunately developed a reputation as a tough place to set up shop. It plays out in the overall cost of starting a business ... contractors build in more costs, etc.” An honest evaluation of the rules and regulations that might be pushing businesses away should be done. Prospective businesses should be greeted with an open

“Government should hand, rather than a list of cited statistics that legaldemands. The city should ized marijuana has not get out of the way and offer a helping hand, a significantly increased let business get the job connection to resources usage among teens in done,” he said. In addition to showlike Region 10 and the Colorado. He said he does not casing the area’s natuDelta Area Chamber of use pot, but is not against ral resources, Carlson Commerce. “We need to get back to it. He views sales tax rev- brought up the golf course, our homegrown roots ... enues as an opportunity the first mention of Devil’s greet them with a hand- to offset revenues short- Thumb. He believes hosting the state golf tourshake,” Carlson said. falls. Clay agreed with CarlCarlson agreed that nament for high school son’s statement that the there is an opportunity youth would be a huge city should find out what’s to increase sales tax rev- boon for the community. Prior to closing comwrong and figure out how enues, but asked, “Are we to fix it. “We need a differ- willing to take the risk? I ments, Ron Austin, Delta ent attitude ... we need to am not.” He said citizens mayor pro-tem, was invitput aside politics and be voiced the same opinion ed to comment on the balmore open-minded about when he was circulating lot questions regarding his nominating petition. the taxation of marijuana. how to grow business.” If it becomes necessary On the other hand, he While the sale of marijuato cut spending, voters provided an example of an na is not currently legal, wanted to know how the acquaintance who bene- the city has elected to be candidates would deter- fited from the use of medi- proactive with the ballot mine how and why. cal marijuana. Overall, he questions. He explained, “Just “Without the bud- said he is opposed to recget in front of me, and reational because of costs because it is on the ballot, it does not mean we are in knowing the numbers, I involved to community. don’t know,” said CarlThe candidates were support of it (marijuana) son. “Maybe city council asked about other pos- ... only in favor of taxation is getting paid too much,” sible sources of revenue on it.” Council and staff have he joked, referring to the for the city. $100 monthly stipend for Nathan Clay suggest- also discussed zoning, council members. ed showcasing our natu- but shelved the ordinance Clay said parks and ral resources. Technology until, and if, marijuana recreation might be the also offers opportunities sales become a reality. The April 3 election is most logical choice, based to expand. on revenues. “There’s Stooksberry agreed being conducted as a mail really not a good choice ... that technology will help ballot. Nathan Clay is the the town is very tight on diversify the local econ- only candidate for District finances.” omy. Broadband is here, C. Kevin Carlson and Jay Stooksberry said bringing competition and Stooksberry are vying for Carlson gave an honest driving down prices. the at-large seat. answer. “Without numbers in front of us, I’m not ready to say.” He did say he would look to comparisons with similar size cities, looking for areas out of balance. Marijuana sales were on the minds of several folks in the audience. Presented By Specifically, candidates DACC were asked to balance the potential revenue against expenses the city could Delta at BillRecreation HeddlesCenter Rec -Center in Delta incur. The risk to children Bill Heddles Friday, March 31 9:00a – 5:00p in the community was a Saturday, April 1 9:00a – 3:00p �� big concern. �� Clay was the first to60+ Vendors, inside and out – FREE Admission! �� respond. “First and fore�� most, my opinion is this Fun�� for the whole family including a Kid’s Bounce House particular issue cannot be �� ramrodded through city �� Food will be available as fundraisers for the VFW, council. This issue is so Ambassadors, and the Delta �� important, it’s something the Chamber Barracuda Swim Team we have to take a vote on. “My personal view: the potential income outweighs the negative.” He expects regulations to be more stringent than alcohol, but as for danger to our children, “All of these topics are extremely difficult and not possible to get into in two minutes (the time allotted for �� responses).” Jay Stooksberry said the sale of marijuana offers a unique opportunity for businesses. As for the effect on children, he

S pring Expo

Call for Vendors Friday, April 6 & Saturday, April 7

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Nathan Clay

Kevin Carlson

Jay Stooksberry

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Risk of marijuana FROM PAGE A2 To me Mr. Clay’s response seemed uninformed and disregarding to what is really happening to our children in our community. Jay Stooksberry downplayed the risk to our children, quoting a weak stat to the effects on our children and our community, seeming to justify that getting the “big bucks” is more important than our families and our community. I agree with what Kevin Carlson said, “Anybody can get stats to reflect their opinion.” Stats do not necessarily prove the actuality happening right now in our community. I came away saddened that some believe money is more important than our children. Reality is being spoken by our schools administrators, hospital emergency staff, sheriff ’s department, local center for mental health, hospice and the school kids clinic. Nathan Clay and Jay Stooksberry were not present at the Feb. 26 or 28 meetings. Not attending meetings regarding a topic that is devastating our community demonstrates that Clay and Stooksberry are out of touch and disconnected. It seems Clay and Stooksberry are distracted with money rather than the safety of our

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children and community. Stooksberry seemed quite polished with his presentation regarding the city budget. However Stooksberry’s vision of Delta’s future was weak and politically routine. From what I understand with speaking with city council, the City of Delta is not broke as Stooksberry seemed to present. Yes, there are upcoming budget issues down the road and it would only be prudent to begin addressing this now;however marijuana revenue is not the answer. Nathan Clay’s closing statement sounded more like it is the community’s fault that Delta is not more like other communities, using words like apathetic and complacent and Delta is not that All America City we once were. He referred to Delta citizens as apathetic and complacent, making it seem the ills of Delta, whatever they may be, are all our fault while stating he has not lived here for the past 18 years. That’s not very respectful on those who cared for his city while gone for 18 years During the meet the candidate, Kevin Carlson stated how much he is involved with kids and sport programs in our community. Kevin seems to have

a better understanding and a desire to learn of how marijuana can have a negative impact on our kids and city. Kevin has memories of what Delta was and a vision of how Delta can be again. Kevin stated he is committed to any reasonable plan to achieve this. Taxation for marijuana is on your ballot. Voting NO sends a message to Nathan Clay and Jay Stooksberry that the citizens of Delta do not want marijuana. All candidates have stated they would not go against the wishes of the citizens of Delta.

A vote for Kevin Carlson is a vote against Jay Stooksberry. And just because Nathan Clay is running unopposed does not mean you need to vote for him. Not voting for Nathan Clay is voting against his stand on marijuana. Simply leave the box blank. The citizens of Delta are crying out for their leadership to defend our children. Just say no to the marijuana tax question on your ballet and yes to Kevin Carlson. Scott Schaible Delta

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A6 Wednesday, March 14, 2018

SCHOOL

Delta County Independent

Trevino earns grand prize, advances to state Science Fair BY PAT SUNDERLAND Managing Editor

Raising awareness

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Vicente Trevino, a senior at Delta High School, placed first at the Western Colorado Regional Science Fair in Grand Junction on Feb. 26. Up to 20 projects, including Trevino’s, qualified for the 2018 Colorado Science and Engineering Fair to be held in Fort Collins April 5, 6 and 7. Trevino’s project was titled “Healing Air Pollution with Hydrogen.”

He analyzed how CO2 and volatile organic compounds might decrease, along with fuel consumption, with the use of hydrogen. He modified a small engine to run on hydrogen and gasoline to compare the air quality emissions. Trevino earned the grand prize in the senior division for grades 912. His teacher is Ben Graves. At the Colorado Science and Engineering

Fair, Trevino will have an opportunity to earn special awards and scholarships, to visit many of the research laboratories on the Colorado State University campus, and to listen to many scientific presentations. The son of Jesus and Maria Trevino, Vicente has attended Delta schools since kindergarten. After graduation he plans to study mechanical engineering at Colorado Mesa University.

Fifth grade students in Jaime Ogden’s class raised $1,103.24 on World Rare Disease Day for Global Genes. Students made and sold blue denim ribbon necklaces to raise awareness for those affected by a rare disease, like Auggie in the book “Wonder,” which was made into a movie. Nichole Kurtz helped organize the activity. Her son James died of a rare disease when he was just 16 months old. His older brother, Joseph, is a student in Ogden’s class.

LULAC chapters are planning a Cinco de Mayo Festival on May 5 LULAC chapters in Delta, Montrose and Olathe are planning a Cinco de Mayo Festi-

val Saturday, May 5. A Centennial Plaza from 11 Monte de Rosas parade a.m. to 7 p.m. The theme is planned at 10 a.m.; the is “Celebrating Diversity.” festival will take place in High school students in grades 9-12 from Delta and Montrose counties are encouraged to apply for the royalty competition. Winners will be awarded a scholarship. Applications are available at: http://mhs.mcsd.org/our_ �� school/clubs_and_organi�� zations/l_u_l_a_c. Vendors, community �� organizations and clubs �� can register for booth �� spaces, the car show com�� petition, and/or parade �� participation by calling �� 970-249-6636 ext. 4300 �� or 970-252-7938. �� Applications are also �� available at: http://mhs. �� mcsd.org/our_school/ �� clubs_and_organizations/ �� l_u_l_a_c.

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Lincoln’s Terriﬁc Kids

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The Delta Kiwanis presented Lincoln Elementary students with Terriﬁc Kids awards on March 6. 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) Corbin Ortega (citizenship), Alan Asavei (integrity and kindness), Miguel Garduno (kindness), Sammantha Martinez (leadership), Addison Clark (respect), Elizabeth Branum (responsibility), Alexis Luna (character); (front row) Brooklyn Smith (diligence), Davia Marks (caring), Gabriel Csere Bitonio (diligence), Marilyn Overturf (compassion), Jaxin Green (diligence), Chloee Hebert (responsibility) and Alex Ortega (service).

ADVERTISE

874-4421

Students of the Month

Photo submitted

Garnet Mesa Elementary School recognized the Students of the Month for January. Pictured above are fourth and ﬁfth grade students (back row) Carolyn Garigliano, Joe Black, Lily Perez; (front row) Leilani Rundle, Xiayden Lucio, Francisco Bermudez and Makayla Wear.

Alive at 25 offered “Alive at 25,” a defensive driving course, is offered to drivers ages 15-24. A Colorado State Patrol trooper will provide approximately four hours of classroom instruction designed to prevent traffic violations, collisions and/or fatalities. Participants will receive a certificate for this course which enables them to test for a driving permit at age 15 1/2 or older. The next class takes place at Bill Heddles Recreation Center Monday, April 16, from 4:30 to 9 p.m. Register online at www. aliveat25.us.

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Third place ﬁnish

Aadrey Fraser, ﬁfth grader at Lincoln Elementary, won third place at the state level in the Elks’ drug awareness poster contest. Chery and Willie Gordon, Delta Elks Lodge #1235, presented Aadrey with a tablet from the Colorado Elks Association.

MARCH 16, 17 & 18

SCHOOL

Delta County Independent

Wednesday, March 14, 2018

Scholarships available for adult continuing education Delta County adults who are seeking higher or continuing education are invited to apply for a $1,000 scholarship, offered by Altrusa International of Delta, Inc. The service organization annually awards several scholarships to non-traditional students and to high school students who are members of the Altrusa-sponsored ASTRA Clubs. The deadline for applications is April 20. The applicant must reside in Delta County and must have been out of high school at least five years. Scholarship monies must be used for the summer or fall terms of 2018. Applicants will be notified by May 15 if they have received a scholarship, and the scholarship will be awarded in July. Proof of enrollment must

be submitted to Altrusa prior to funds being released. The funds will be sent directly to the student. Altrusa will also award $500 scholarships to members of Delta County ASTRA clubs at Delta and Cedaredge high schools who demonstrate excellent service to the community, academic promise, and plan to attend a college, university, trade school or online school this year. More information, qualification guidelines and applications are online at www.Altrusa InternationalOfDelta. com; please note that only digital applications will be accepted. For more information, call Altrusan Kami Collins at 970-361-8905. Funds for the scholarships are raised in part

from the club’s annual events, the Deltarado Days kickoff dinner at Cleland Park and the Sugar Plum Festival & Little Side Street Market in the fall. Altrusa is an international nonprofit organization, making our local communities better through leadership, partnership, and service. The mission of Altrusa International of Delta is to be leaders in service, addressing the needs of the community. We strive to be a positive influence by supporting projects that enable the greatest number of people to better themselves by improving their self-esteem through continuing education.

Poster contest winner

Olivia Hines, a fourth grader at Garnet Mesa Elementary, won ﬁrst place in the Colorado state drug awareness poster contest, “What Heroes Do.” Olivia was presented a tablet by Chery and Willie Gordon, Delta Elks Lodge #1235, on behalf of the Colorado Elks Association. The poster will be in a future national Elks coloring book.

Easter Eggstravaganza returns to Bill Heddles To celebrate the 25th anniversary of Bill Heddles Recreation Center, the City of Delta is bringing back the Easter Eggstravaganza Saturday, March 24, 10 a.m. to noon. The celebration will include indoor activities — egg decorating, games, crafts and the Easter Bunny. Remember to bring your camera for photos with the Easter

Bunny. At about 11:45 a.m., the kids will hop outside for an Easter egg hunt on Confluence Fields. Included with your admission to this event is an option to enjoy the pool until 2 p.m. for no additional fee. Advance registration is $3 per child ($5 the day of the event). To register, stop by Bill Heddles Recreation Center.

Delta High School

Students of the Month Peyton Schuster

Age: 18 Parents: Kelly Landen, Todd Landen, Jimmy Schuster

Favorite subject: Math Favorite teacher: Renee Cronenberg Most influential person in your life: My mom, Kelly. She is always encouraging and is a great example/role model. After graduation I plan to attend Grand Canyon University and major in nursing. Favorite saying: Jeremiah 29:11 Favorite musician/song: Thomas Rhett Favorite TV show: Friends Activities: I play tennis and I’m involved in HOSA for future health professionals. In my spare time, I like to play tennis and ride my horses.

Logan Freed

Age: 18 Parents: Robert and Janet Freed Favorite subject: Literature Favorite teacher: Mr. Ames Most influential person in your life: My parents. They are the type of people I aspire to be. They are kind, hardworking people. After graduation I plan to attend college, although I’m not sure where. Favorite saying: N/A

Favorite musician/song: N/A Favorite TV show: Game of Thrones

Activities: At school I participate in basketball, track and National Honor Society. I’m a liturgist and nursery attendant at my church and in the community, I’m an attendant at Abraham Connection. In my spare time, I like to read fiction, practice basketball and spend time with family and friends. The Delta County Independent, Delta Elks Lodge and Maverik celebrate the success of these students. DHS would like to thank them for their generosity and support.

Garnet Mesa’s Terriﬁc Kids 3/8

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) Scarlett Parrish, Ayrihanna Rundle, Zyla Cook, Jackelyn Ramirez; (back row) Cash Kirkland, Bristol Wells, Taylor Hendricks, Paul Barr-Kvapil and Emma St Clair. Below are second and third graders (back row) Tyler Hurd, Danika Queen, Julia Sevigny; (front row) Isabella Barry, Juan Ramirez, Talyn Whitley and Sam Yost.

Register for Little Ladies softball Bill Heddles Recreation Center is currently taking registrations for Little Ladies’ softball. Teams for 9- to 14year-olds will be put together after the registration deadline of March 18. Practices start midApril with games beginning in mid-May. The 7- and 8-year-olds have until April 8 to register. Practices begin in May with games to be scheduled in June. For more information or to register, call Whitnee Lear at 874-0923 or email whitnee@cityofdelta.net.

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Train to be a lifeguard Bill Heddles Recreation Center is holding American Red Cross blended learning lifeguard classes Monday-Friday April 1620. Classes run from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. After successful completion of the class, students will obtain CPR/ AED, first aid, lifeguard

training and water park lifeguarding certifications from the American Red Cross. Please note: This class requires computer/ internet access. Cost is $100. Participants must complete pre-skills on the first day of class that include 300-yard swim, two-min-

ute deep tread without hands and a timed event including retrieving a 10pound brick from 10 feet of water. Registration deadline is April 11 at 5 p.m. Space is limited, so sign up today and start saving lives. For more information, contact John Volk at 874-0923.

A8 Wednesday, March 14, 2018

Sharon Malinowicz

Sharon Marie Malinowicz of Hotchkiss died March 6, 2018. She was 71. She was born Aug. 23, 1946, to Peter and Theresa Malinowicz. She grew up in a Polish neighborhood in Chicago, Ill. After graduating from Kelly High School in Chicago, she went on to study and work in the nursing profession for many years. During this time she married Frank Klein, started a family, and moved to Plattville, Ill., where they farmed corn and soy beans. In 1977, the family moved to Hotchkiss where they grew apples and various other crops. She worked the night shift as a nurse at Paonia Care Center for over 30 years. She enjoyed taking care of her family, working on the farm, riding Missy (her white Appaloosa), and travelling throughout the United States, Europe, Australia, Costa Rica and Belize. Sharon is survived by a son, Robert Klein and his wife Paula Hodgson of Fort Collins; and extended family. She was preceded in death by her parents; two brothers; an infant sister; her aunt Lucy, who helped raise her; and a son, Mark Klein. A graveside memorial service will be held Saturday, March 24, at

OBITUARIES 11 a.m. at the Riverside Cemetery in Hotchkiss. If there is inclement weather the service will be held at the Taylor Funeral Chapel in Hotchkiss. Memorial donations can be made to the Mark Anthony Klein Memorial Scholarship. Use link https://advancing.colo state.edu/HISTORY, click the Klein fund and under tribute, note that it is in honor of Sharon Malinowicz. Donations by check can be mailed to the CSU Foundation PO Box 1870, Fort Collins, CO 805221870. In the memo line on the check please note “Fund #43593” in honor of Sharon Malinowicz. Taylor Funeral Service and Crematory is handling the arrangements.

Richard Tuck

Longtime Delta County resident Richard A. Tuck died March 5, 2018, at Delta County Memorial Hospital. He was 62. Funeral services were held March 12 at Taylor Funeral Service Chapel. Interment followed at Veterans Memorial Cemetery of Western Colorado in Grand Junction. He was born July 17, 1955, to William and Geneva (Eshelman) Tuck in Maryville, Tenn. He spent his childhood and attended school in the U.S. and overseas. The family settled in Delta County in 1971. After finishing school, Mr. Tuck served in the U.S. Army.

Mr. Tuck received an honorable discharge and became a mechanic. He enjoyed watching television, cars and spending time with family. He is survived by two brothers, William (Jeanette) Tuck of Gunnison and Kevin Tuck of Delta; sister, Karen (Joe) Abeyta of Clearwater, Fla.; and extended family. He was preceded in death by his parents and brother, David Tuck. Memorial contributions may be made to TAILS Adoption Center, 720 W. 4th Street, Delta, CO 81416. Taylor Funeral Service and Crematory is handling the arrangements.

Homer Miller

Homer Lee Miller of Loma died March 5, 2018, in Grand Junction. A private family service will be held at a later date. He was an underground miner and rancher. Mr. Miller is survived by his wife, Doris Miller of Loma; four sons, Terry Miller of Delta, Tod Miller of Hotchkiss, Travis Miller of Delta and Troy Miller of Crawford; daughter, Patricia Miller of Trinity, N.C.; brother, Richard Miller of Windsor; sister, Genn de Aragon of California; 11 grandchildren; and 23 great-grandchildren. Memorial contributions may be made to Stillwater Cowboy Rodeo Bible Camp, PO Box 87, Fruita, CO 81521. Callahan-Edfast Mortuary handled the arrangements.

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Pete Hylton Jr.

Lynn Oco “Pete” Hylton Jr. of Paonia died March 9, 2018, at the VA Medical Center in Grand Junction. He was 86. Memorial services will be held at 2 p.m., Wednesday, March 14, at Taylor Funeral Service Chapel, with James Gall officiating. Inurnment will follow at Bethlehem Cemetery in Paonia. Lynn Oco Hylton Jr. was born Jan. 4, 1932, in Garden City, Kan., to Lynn Oco and Blanche (Gump) Hylton Sr. Mr. Hylton served in the U.S. Navy from 19511955 and was a Korean War veteran. He earned a master’s degree in range management from Colorado State University and then worked for the Department of Agriculture at Berkeley, the San Joaquin Experimental Range near Coarsegold and in Fresno, all in California. He also published several professional papers. He married Betty Lee Earles. They had three daughters and were married 25 years. On July 4, 1997, he married Frances “Fran” Ring in Aurora. They moved to Paonia and were active in the community through quilting, church, town council, a conservation group and the city park. Mr. Hylton Jr. enjoyed dancing, fly fishing at his “secret” stream, hunting, camping, jeeping and the Colorado mountains. He was known to stop and talk to residents of the Paonia/North Fork area in his Honda Civic. He is survived by his three daughters, Sharon Harley of Paonia, Rebekah (Steven) Barnett-Hahn of Lakewood and Terry (Charley) Hernandez of Wheat Ridge; eight grandchildren; three stepgrandchildren; three great-grandchildren; one stepgreatgrandchild; and siblings, Russel (RC) Hylton of Pueblo and Melva Harding of Hattiesburg, Miss. He was preceded in

Delta County Independent

death by his wife, W. Francis “Fran” Kern-Hylton; and sister, Marcella Gillespie. Memorial contributions may be made to the Paonia City Park, PO Box 460, Paonia, CO 81428. Taylor Funeral Service and Crematory is handling the arrangements.

Steven Dunstan

Steven Roy Dunstan died March 7, 2018, at Paonia Care and Rehabilitation Center. He was 67. A memorial service was held March 10 at Taylor Funeral Service Chapel in Delta. Steven Roy Dunstan was born in Sapnish Fork, Utah, June 8, 1950, to Kenneth and Verna (Carter) Dunstan. He spent his childhood in Salem, Utah, and attended Spanish Fork High School. He married Eloise Walker on Jan. 11, 1983, in Payson, Utah. He served in the U.S. Army and was an auto mechanic. He lived in Delta for the past 27 years. He enjoyed working on cars, working with his hands and music from the 1960s. He was a member of the Elks Lodge. He is survived by his wife, Eloise; two sons, Shane and Jason Dunstan; a stepson, Cody Black; a stepdaughter, Mikela Brown; two brothers, Larry and Brent Dunstan; half brothers, Ron Taylor, Rodger Taylor and Ken Dunstan; a stepbrother, Larry Taylor; half sisters, Andrea Stoneman, Carolyn Cruz, Charlene Maya, Christina Mata and Sherry Pangelinan; stepsisters, Vickie Newell and Jackie Drage; and seven grandchildren. He was preceded in death by his parents and a sister, Connie Dunstan. Taylor Funeral Service and Crematory is handling the arrangements.

Tony Cone

Lifetime Paonia resident Charles Anthony “Tony” Cone died March 4, 2018, at his home. He was 66. A memorial service was held March 10 at the American Legion in Paonia. He was born May 10, 1951, to Vivian and Nina (Smith) Cone in Denver. He spent his childhood and attended school in Paonia, graduating from Paonia High School in

1969. He attended Mesa College, Colorado State University and Colorado School of Mines. Mr. Cone was a member of the American Legion in Paonia. He enjoyed being in the outdoors, hunting, fishing, four-wheeling, picking mushrooms, snowmobiling and skiing. He is survived by his spouse, Marie Vandever of Paonia; son, Matthew Cone of Madison, Wis.; daughters, Terra Shamari Cone of Hotchkiss and Olivia (Kevin) Cavaluzzi of Corning, N.Y.; sister, Barbara Haddan of Paonia; seven grandchildren; and four greatgrandchildren. He was preceded in death by his parents and one sister, Ruth West. Taylor Funeral Service and Crematory is handling the arrangements. Visit the internet obituary and sign the online guest registry at www. taylorfuneralservice.com.

with his extended family. He is survived by his wife, Libby; three sons, David (Carmen) Raveles of Gilbert, Ariz., Craig (Yazmin) Holton of Lakeside, Calif., and Nathan Holton of Aurora; daughter, Lori (Jeff) Gajecki of Lake Elsinore, Calif.; two brothers, John (Joan) Holton and Milo Holton, al of Delta; seven grandchildren; and one greatgrandchild. He was preceded in death by three brothers, Donald, Gordon and Bud. Taylor Funeral Service and Crematory is handling the arrangements.

Fred Fisher

Frederick “Fred” Stephen Fisher died Thursday, March 8. Memorial services will be held at 10 a.m. Saturday, April 7, at Taylor Funeral Service Chapel. Inurnment will be in Wyoming.

Hilda Jones

Kenneth Holton

Longtime Delta resident Kenneth Lawrence Holton died March 8, 2018, at Delta County Memorial Hospital. He was 75. Memorial services will be held at 11 a.m. Friday, March 16, at the First Baptist Church in Delta with Pastor James Conley officiating. Private family graveside services will take place at Mesa View Cemetery in Delta. Mr. Holton was born in Delta July 5, 1942, to Shelby and Hazel (Lucas) Holton. He was raised in Delta and graduated from Delta High School in 1960. He served in the U.S. Marine Corps from June 1960 until April 1964, when he was honorable discharged. He earned an associate’s degree from Mesa College, then obtained a bachelor’s degree in vocational agriculture from Colorado State University. On Oct. 23, 1965, he married Elizabeth “Libby” Darter at the First Baptist Church in Delta, where he was a lifelong member. He worked as a vo-ag instructor, a corrections officer and caregiver to developmentally disabled adults. He was a member of the Delta Lions Club. He enjoyed hunting, playing cribbage, watching Colorado Rockies baseball, crossword puzzles and spending time

Paonia resident Hilda Anna Jones died March 3, 2018, at Paonia Care Center. She was 92. She was born in Philadelphia, Pa., Feb. 5, 1926, to Louis and Katerina (Michaels) Steinetz. She spent her childhood in Philadelphia where she went to a trade school to be a seamstress. In 1944 she married John Stehle in Philadelphia. The marriage ended in divorce. In 1961 she married Frank Jones in Philadelphia. Mrs. Jones was a member of St. Michael’s Episcopal Church. She enjoyed cooking, baking and playing with her grandchildren. She was artistic and played her piano daily, frequently singing or humming. She is survived by a son, Albert (Ginnie) Jones of Collegeville, Pa.; stepson, Frank (CJ) Jones III of Catonsville, Md.; three daughters, Kitty (Joe) Gersch of Barnegat, N.J., Dorothy (James) Carpenter of Lancaster, Pa., and Eileen (Charles) Stewart of Paonia; one sister, Louise Weichman of Ewan, N.J.; 11 grandchildren; three greatgrandchildren; and one great-great-grandchild. She was preceded in death by her spouse, Frank; one daughter, Nancy Jones; and a brother, Albert Jones. Taylor Funeral Service and Crematory is handling the arrangements.

Kevin Galloway June 25, 1972 ~ March 4, 2018 Kevin Earl Galloway, 45, of Allen, Kan., passed away Sunday, March 4, 2018. He was born June 25, 1972, in Montrose, Colo., the son of Glendene and Rebecca (Bridges) Galloway. Kevin married the love of his life, Julie Schroeder, on Sept. 16, 2000. They resided in Missouri, until moving to Allen in 2002. He has cowboyed on ranches and feedlots for most of his life. He was also an accomplished horseshoer. Kevin loved horses, cattle and fishing. He also enjoyed having a great time with families and friends and most of being a fun loving dad to Colby and Elizabeth. He will be greatly missed by all that knew him. He was preceded in death by his mother Rebecca Bridges; father Glendene Galloway; and maternal grandparents Dean and Betty

Bridges. Kevin is survived by his loving wife Julie; his treasured children, Colby and Elizabeth Galloway, all of the home; brothers, Kelly Galloway and wife Jessica, of Garrison, N.D. and Shawn Galloway and wife Audrey, of Ullyses, Kan.; sisters, Shawna, Amanda and Caitlin Galloway, all of Albert, Kan. Also surviving are his stepmother Mindy Crider, of Albert, Kan.; special friend of the family, Laura Davis, of Fruita, Colo.; Uncle Jeff

(Carrie) Bridges, of Fort Supply, Okla.; Aunt Helen (Mike) Dunlap, of Montrose, Colo.; Aunt Jolena (Allen) Horn, of Phoenix, Ariz.; and several nieces, nephews, cousins, aunts, uncles and friends. A visitation for family and friends was held March 8, 2018, at the Council Grove Recreation and Events Center at 1020 East Main. Funeral services were held Friday, March 9, also at the Events Center. Interment followed at Allen Cemetery. Memorial contributions may be made to Kevin Galloway Memorial Fund, which will go towards his children’s education. They may be sent in care of Zeiner Funeral Home, PO Box 273, Council Grove, KS 66846. Condolences may be left at www.zeiner funeralhomes.com. Paid obituary

Delta County Independent

ACTIVITIES

Wednesday, March 14, 2018

�� Ante up for poker fundraiser

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The Kiwanis Club of Delta is holding its seventh annual poker tournament at Bill Heddles Recreation Center on March 17. Registration is at 4 p.m. with tournament play beginning at 5 p.m. and lasting until approximately 8 p.m. The tournament is a partnership between the Kiwanis Club and Western Slope Poker Tour LLC, owned and operated by Chris Rajotte. Approx-

imately $1,000 worth of prizes will be raffled off throughout the evening, and the Key Club from Delta High School will be serving food at a nominal cost. Cold beer will be provided for the evening fun. Businesses can sponsor a table for $200 which

allows all their employees/guests to receive their first $100 in poker chips for free. Contact Clay Speas at 970-3612950 to sponsor a table or pre-register for a spot at a table. Money donated at the event stays in Delta County and is used to

establish and maintain youth programs and activities to assist youth in Delta County including college scholarships, sponsorships for Key Club members to attend leadership conferences, and grants to numerous youth-related activities in the community.

Concert series features bluegrass, cowboy music

It’s time for another evening of old-time, bluegrass and cowboy music at the Pea Green Saturday Night concert series. The March 24 event will take place at the Pea Green Community CenLearn to play pickle- ter from 7-9 p.m. This ball Wednesday, March month will feature The 21, at 6 p.m. at Bill Hed- Inertia String Band and dles Recreation Center tennis courts. All levels are welcome. Instructors will be available for beginners. There is no charge; equipment and balls will be available.

Quicksand Soup, both for only one sawbuck ($10) at the door. The hall is located at the intersection of Hwy. 348 and Banner Road southwest of Delta. Lots of people bring a snack to share, and you can do likewise if you want to. So swing by if you can

On Wednesday, March 21, Vicki Felmlee will present to the Chipeta Chapter of the Colorado Archaeological Society “Drones in the Desert - In the Canyons - In the Ruins,” a brief look at how this technology, which is growing by leaps and bounds, is changing the way archaeologists, recreationists, and pres-

ervationists are seeing their world. The talk will introduce the audience to ways drones and other tools may be used to view and photograph the landscape. Felmlee is the president of the national Old Spanish Trail Association, as well as owner of TCS Marketing and TCS

Learn to play pickleball

and pay a listen to some of the best of our local musical talent and associate with some of the most appreciative and well-behaved folk in our three-county area. The doors open at 6 p.m. and seating is limited. For more information call Len Willey at 874-8879.

Archaeological talk: Drones in the Desert, Canyons and Ruins

Concert celebrates the west Saddle on up and join the Montrose Community Band on Sunday, March 18, at 3 p.m. at the Montrose Pavilion for a free concert with a fun western theme. Dust off your boots and come ride off into the sunset with us. For more information visit www.montroseband. com or call 970-596-1188.

View the night sky at Black Canyon NP On Saturday, March 17, join park rangers and the Black Canyon Astronomical Society to learn more about what is happening in the night sky. Meet at the South Rim Visitor Center at the Black Canyon of the Gunnison National Park. The evening starts with a special program followed by night sky viewing. If the weather looks cloudy, call (970) 249-1914, ext. 423. Be prepared for cold weather.

Dinner supports mission trip Seventeen people from Delta United Methodist Church are preparing to travel to Baton Rouge May 6-12 to help people restore their homes after Hurricane Harvey. They look forward to being the hands and feet of Christ. To raise funds for their trip, they are planning a gumbo dinner, made with chicken and sausage, as a fundraiser. The dinner will be held Saturday, March 24, 5:30 to 7:30 p.m. at the Delta United Methodist Church Fellowship Hall at 5th and Meeker. Tickets are $10 for adults and $5 for children under 12. Come early to view and bid on items in the silent auction.

Enjoy the sounds of the ‘60s and ‘70s Get ready to revel in the rhythms of the ‘60s and ‘70s with the Valley Symphony Chorus. At 3 p.m. Sunday, March 25, choir members will highlight one of the most diverse musical eras of all time with artists spanning from Joni Mitchell and James Taylor to Otis Redding, Earth, Wind and Fire, and more. Celebrate two decades of American-born rock, pop, soul and funk. Lean back and

The Valley Youth Orchestra is pleased to present “A Night at the Movies” Saturday, March 17, at Delta High School, 1400 Pioneer Road in Delta. The evening fundraiser begins with a silent auction starting at 4:30, dinner at 5:30 and the concert at 7 p.m. The VYO features day with coed playing on string players ages 5 to 18 from throughout the Sunday. For more information region who will be playor to register, call Whitnee ing pieces from Mary Lear at 874-0923 or email whitnee@cityofdelta.net. You can also sign up Community for the summer softball league. The city rec- dance set reation department is for March 17 offering six choices: MonRoute 66 will provide day Recreational Coed Silver League, Tuesday music for the community Recreational Coed Gold, St. Patrick’s Day dance Thursday Men’s Compet- Saturday, March 17, itive Slow Pitch, Thurs- at Bill Heddles Recreday Women’s Slow Pitch ation Center. The dance and Wednesday Men’s takes place from 7 to 10 Fast Pitch. The team p.m. Bring a friend and fee of $275 is due April a snack to share. Cof22. Player fees are $20 fee and lemonade will be each and are due the first provided. The cost is $5 at the door. night of each league.

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enjoy swaying ballads or try to stay in your seat with rocking rhythms. The concert takes place at the Montrose Pavilion. Purchase your tickets at valleysym Clubb’s in phony.net, Delta or Gazebo Florist in Cedaredge. Tickets are adults $17, seniors $16 and youth $5. Tickets will also be available at the door: adults $20, seniors $20, and youth $5.

Youth present ‘A Night at the Movies’

Sign up for April Fool’s softball tournament The annual preseason April Fool’s softball tournament will take place April 7-8 at Mountain View Park. Here’s a chance to test your team and have a great time before summer softball starts. Divisions for coed, women’s and men’s teams will be offered. The final deadline to register your team is March 31. Register your team by March 25 for a $50 discount. The team fee is only $225 before and on March 25; after March 25 the fee is $275. There’s a three-game guarantee for the weekend. Men’s and women’s teams will play on Satur-

Aerial Visuals in Grand Junction, and member of the Academy of Model Aeronautics. The meeting is at 7 p.m. at United Methodist Church, Baldridge Hall, 19 S. Park Street, Montrose. The public is invited; new members are always welcome.

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Poppins, Pirates of the Carribean, Phantom of the Opera, The Wizard of Oz and other films. Dinner is being provided by the Altrusa Club of Delta. Tickets can be purchased from orchestra members or online at http://valley symphony.net/vyo.

Ski race scheduled March 18 The Mesa Meltdown cross-country ski race will be held on Sunday, March 18, at Skyway on Grand Mesa. This features a 20k and a 5k, both freestyle races starting simultaneously at 10 a.m. Registration is on race day only, $15 for Grand Mesa Nordic Council members, $25 for others. All ages and abilities are welcome. For more information, call 434-9753 or go to www. gmnc.org.

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A10 Wednesday, March 14, 2018

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ACCURATE TAX

& ACCOUNTING SERVICE ��

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Email ads to: ads@deltacountyindependent.com

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LOCAL NEWS

Delta County Independent

PeeWee’s sales tax license revoked BY PAT SUNDERLAND Managing Editor

Failure to pay sales tax and interest in October, November and December resulted in revocation of the sales tax license held by Pee Wee’s Animal House. The business briefly occupied a building on Main Street and is now located at 25 Stafford Lane. The business is also in arrears on utility payments, finance director Tod DeZeeuw reported at the March 6 meeting of the Delta City Council. Council members voted unanimously to revoke the sales tax license following a public hearing. The owners of the business did not attend the public hearing, despite what city staff described as repeated atttempts to make them aware of the pending revocation. DeZeeuw said the city has a number of alternatives, including closing down the business, but there are live animals on the premises. “We wouldn’t want to affect the welfare of the animals,” he said. Council agreed. DeZeeuw said he will consult with the city attorney before taking any action against the business. City council also considered a beer and wine liquor license application from Ernest and Cecelia Tafoya, owners of Delta Family Fun Park. The license covers the entire area inside the chain link fence that surrounds the batting cages and minia-

ture golf course. Council member Gerald Roberts expressed concern about the possibility of underage drinking. During a public hearing, several citizens spoke in favor of the application, saying the set-up won’t be that much different from Deltarado Days and other events where a beer/wine garden is located in close proximity to kids’ activities. They also supported the Tafoyas’ efforts to draw people downtown with family-friendly activities. “This is a great opportunity for them to grow their business and bring

more people downtown,” Jay Stooksberry said. After hearing from four citizens and reviewing a petition with 12 signatures, all in support of the Tafoyas, council unanimously approved the liquor license. “We’ve never had this kind of support for anything,” council member Christopher Ryan said following the vote. Council also approved ordinances amending zoning for mobile home sales and for greenhouses. Currently, greenhouses are allowed only in A-1 (rural/agricultural) zones as a conditional use. On second reading, the ordinance will allow green-

Top manager

houses in A-1, B-2, B-3 and I (commercial/industrial) as a right. Community development director Glen Black said his office has received four inquiries, one from an individual who wanted to grow tomatoes and peppers, and another from a hemp grower. Black said the issue of greenhouses also came up in connection with planning commission discussions about zoning for marijuana. That prompted council member Christopher Ryan to emphasize the zoning change is not being made for marijuana, which can not be grown commercially anywhere in Delta County.

Photo by Robbie LeValley

Jeff Wright, emergency preparedness manager for Delta County, has been recognized by the Colorado Emergency Management Association as Emergency Manager of the Year. Sheriff Fred McKee, in congratulating Jeff, noted, “Jeff, you were a rookie last year, and this year you are recognized as the top manager in the state.” McKee continued that Wright prepares county employees and others for all types of disasters and emergencies and is a strong motivator to all with whom he works. Extending thank yous and publicly recognizing Wright’s accomplishments are, back row, left to right: Commissioners Mark Roeber, Doug Atchley, Don Suppes and Sheriff Fred McKee. Wright stands in front.

Evangelist shares Biblecentered messages Evangelist Charles R. Sanders will conduct a Bible Evangelism Crusade at Garnet Mesa Baptist Church, 863 A Street, Delta, March 18-21. Dr. Sanders pastored the Highlands Baptist Church in Boulder for over five years, during which time the Highlands Baptist School was started with grades K12. Previously, Dr. Sanders pastored the Calvary Baptist Church in Waterton, Wis., started the Calvary Baptist Christian Schools, was a board member of the Chetek Baptist Assembly Camp, and dean of Youth Week.

He has pastored a total of 27 years and has been in full-time evangelism for the past 31 years. Dr. Sanders has traveled to several countries around the world. He has visited several mission fields and helped many missionaries in their journeys. You are invited to share the inspiration and blessing of practical Bible-centered messages preached by Dr. Sanders Monday through Wednesday at 7 p.m. Pastor Jerry Hilterbrand II is the pastor of Garnet Mesa Baptist Church.

Results provided for cribbage tournament The City of Delta Recreation Department provided results of the annual cribbage tournament — the largest on the Western Slope — held at Bill Heddles Recreation Center on Feb. 25. Sixty-five players came from Delta, Olathe, Cedaredge, Austin, Eckert, Hotchkiss, Paonia, Crawford, Somerset, Montrose, Fruita, Clifton and Grand Junction. All participants played singles and had the option of playing doubles. The first place winner received a wooden cribbage board made by Len Johnson and certificates were given as follows:

Singles — Mark Harris, Delta, first; Dan Vogel, Grand Junction, second; Conny Lepper, Fruita, third; Kate Orth, Montrose, fourth; Tom Babcock, Montrose, fifth. Doubles — Mark Harris and Tom Babcock, first; Darlene Johnson and Kate Orth, second; Carolyn Volpe and Dan Vogel, third; Dustin Orth and Lee Martinson, fourth. Minor prizes were given to sixth to 12th place in singles and to fifth to eighth in doubles. The tournament is cosponsored by Lee Martinson, who donated prizes for the big winners.

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NORTH FORK March 14, 2018

TIMES

Section

www.deltacountyindependent.com

Two candidates step up to provide leadership in Hotchkiss BY PAT SUNDERLAND Managing Editor

Thomas Wills and Larry Wilkening are running for mayor of Hotchkiss, seeking to fill the seat that’s being vacated by Wendell Koontz, who is term limited. Since moving to Hotchkiss in 1990, Wills has been an active member of the community. He has served on the Hotchkiss Town Council for a total of 14 years and was a founding member of the Hotchkiss Planning Commission. Planning is his “thing” — in 2003 he took the lead in crafting the town’s first Master Plan, which he has updated numerous times. He wrote the town’s zoning ordinance utilizing a multi-use approach that allows a mix of residential and commercial uses in downtown Hotchkiss, as well as cottage businesses in most residential areas. He wrote the town’s sign code, a sidewalk and trails plan, and a downtown improvement plan as an addendum to the Master Plan, all with input from staff, council and the town attorney. He believes planning is critical to the town’s growth, which is picking up. “Growth is going to be a big thing over the next five years,” he said. “We’ve already seen one proposal for a subdivision.” In the future, he would like to develop a parks plan and a capital improvement plan. As an artist and small business owner, Wills is also active in the Hotchkiss Community Chamber of Commerce. The town and the chamber are collaborating on the Colorado Main Street Program for the downtown area. Chamber volunteers, including Wills, began by planting flowers in boxes placed along Bridge Street, but it’s been a real challenge to sustain that effort, Wills said. “I guess it’s because our small businesses are run by people who are busy enough trying to keep their business going. I think

Thomas Wills

Larry Wilkening

we’re going to have to figure out how to pay a maintenance person.” Wills said he will keep pitching ideas, hoping to land on a concept that would make the downtown area unique and get people excited. Since the town operates on sales tax revenues, business enhancement is vitally important. Communication with business owners and the community as a whole is key, he said, but two-way communication has been a struggle for both the town and the chamber. Wills said the mayor has little more authority than a town trustee, but whereas the town council meets just once or twice a month, the mayor must keep on top of what the town staff is doing on a daily and weekly basis. “The mayor is the administrative head of the town so what I would be doing is having staff meetings at least once a week, and I’d probably meet with department heads a couple of times a week so I would know really well what’s going on. “We’ve got an excellent staff and they don’t need a lot of supervision, but a major duty of the mayor is to make sure town staff implements policy and follows the law. It’s not a managerial job, but when you don’t have a town manager someone has to provide oversight.” Wills believes the town

badly needs a town manager, but “we can’t afford it right now.” Wills observed that the municipal election four years ago was cancelled due to a lack of candidates. This year, he’s pleased to see four trustee candidates for the four vacant seats and another candidate for mayor. “I’m not running against Larry Wilkening,” he said. I’m offering to serve the town with everything I’ve learned in the last 30 years. Larry has a whole career in management which would be really valuable too. Either way, I’m fine and I would probably be willing to go on the planning commission as a citizen.” Wilkening’s family moved to the Crawford area from San Francisco when his father retired in 1958 after a 20-year career in the Marine Corps. Larry is a 1968 graduate of Hotchkiss High School; his wife Sherri is a 1967 HHS graduate. He graduated from Colorado State University in 1972 with a degree in business administration, with an emphasis on accounting. After college he returned to Hotchkiss and went to work for Independent HOTCHKISS MAYOR TO B2

Please turn to B3 for profiles of the four Hotchkiss Town Council candidates

Old sign revealed

Photo by Tamie Meck

In preparing for the March 13 re-opening SK Bikes (formerly Shish KaBikes) at its new location at 110 Third Street in Paonia, Scott Shishim discovered lettering beneath the tar-papered false front Saturday. While the words “NORTH FORK CREAM STATION” are clearly visible, a faded “Diamond” runs diagonally across the face of the false front, “RESTAURANT” is spelled out across the bottom, and a diamond shape surrounds the letter N in the word “NORTH.” Shishim said he hopes to learn more about the history of the sign and the building.

Candidate night in Crawford March 15 The Crawford Area Chamber of Commerce is hosting a “Meet the Candidate” night on Thursday, March 15. It will be from 6 to 8 p.m. at the Crawford Town Hall. There are six candidates running for four positions on the Crawford Town Council.

On the ballot are Mike Tiedeman, Chris Johnson, Jeff Peed, Julie Kinder, Ralph Clark and Jessica Hart. There will be approximately 90 minutes of moderated questions followed by 30 minutes for questions submitted from the audience.

Six seek seats on Crawford council BY RANDY SUNDERLAND General Manager

Crawford voters will be selecting four town council members and deciding one tax question involving marijuana sales tax in this year’s municipal election. Ballots went out this week, and must be returned by Tuesday, April 3. Of the six candidates seeking office, three are currently serving on the town council. Interestingly, only Mike Tiedeman was actually elected to the position. Chris Johnson and Jeff Peed were appointed to fill vacancies during 2017. The other candidates are Ralph Clark, Jessica Hart and Julie Kinder. Each candidate was asked to provide some information about themselves, and their thoughts on some of the issues of this year’s election. They are presented in the same order as they are listed on the ballot.

Ralph Clark Ralph Clark was born and raised in Crawford, and still calls it home. He is 64, and he and his wife Jolie have three sons. He has worked 41 years in Delta County Road and Bridge, since 1986 he has been road foreman. “I have been on the Crawford Fire Department ever since I can remember,” said Clark. He explained that his father was fire chief when he was 10 or so, and Clark started doing things around the fire house at an early age. Although he has

passed the fire fighting duties on to younger members of the department, Ralph continues to be involved as a member of the board of directors. “One of my prouder things I’ve done,” said Ralph, was to help bring the ambulance to Crawford. He explained that he was fire chief when that happened. Several bad accidents pointed out the need, and he worked with the ambulance head to have an ambulance stationed in town to improve response time. He also has experience on town council, serving two terms in the mid-1980s. When asked why he was a candidate, Ralph quipped, “Some days I ask myself that question.” He explained, “I’ve lived in Crawford my whole life, and I certainly have a commitment to the community.” For Ralph, some of the priorities for council include solving its funding issue, drainage, and streets. “They are cutting everything they can to get by,” said Ralph while noting the diminishing impact of mining to the tax base and the two-time failure to gain voter approval of a mill levy increase. The lack of funding is impacting the ability of the town to do any more than basic maintenance. Clark is also concerned about drainage, and sees the problem growing larger. “The Clipper Ditch, which carries a lot of runoff and tank overflow, is going to be piped in the near future,” said Clark. “This will cause even bigger issues for drainage.” With his background in roads, Clark also places a priority on town streets. When asked why marijuana and municipal court continue to come up on the town council agenda, Clark said the court was being discussed when he was on the council 30 years ago. “It will not happen in the near future,” he explained, “because of the costs and because the

number of possible cases will not justify it.” As for marijuana, Clark is “not a fan.” “I still consider marijuana a drug,” he said. “If the FDA says it’s okay and you can buy it as a prescription drug, I’m okay with that. “If we put it to the vote of the town ... if the majority of the people are in favor, so be it.” He added, “I would not like to see Crawford having places to buy it.” Ralph likes outdoor activities, especially involving horses and border collies. He said his wife got a dog and involved with the stock dog trials, and then got him involved as well. Mike is 50, and he and

Mike Tiedeman his wife Stephanie have four adult children. He has lived in Crawford for 25 years, and has been employed by Delta County Road and Bridge, District 3, for more than 22 years. He has also been a member of the Crawford Fire Department for 23 years. He enjoys “outdoor stuff” like hunting and fishing. It is his sense of community involvement which moves him to seek his third term on Crawford Town Council. “If you have an opinion,” said Tiedeman, “you should be involved. And I have an opinion.” He likes his community, and wants to keep things “quiet.” “I am not a politician,” he said. “It is becoming a little more political than I would like.” Legaliz-

ing marijuana and other things ues to be an issue because of have contributed to a growing rumors and gossip Tiedeman sense of disquiet in town, and said. He explains that in genTiedeman said, “If we do have eral the council has agreed a to deal with it, dealing with it municipal court is not happening. However, one member of responsibly is the way to go.” He also believes that much council continues to keep the of the conflict stems from a issue alive, which is confuslack of communication. “People ing for the people. Tiedeman need to start talking to each said the town cannot afford other,” said Tiedeman. Wheth- a municipal court, nor is it er it is conflict over marijuana, necessary. “It is nice to live or barking dogs, he would like somewhere that one of the bigpeople to behave like neighbors gest problems is barking dogs,” and talk about their differenc- he said. es. “Don’t build fences when they don’t need to be built.” A priority for Tiedeman is to bring the town together. “The politics is here, and there is a table [council] that will look at both sides of the issues. The town is split, but it is no different than the country. He would like to see more people coming to the council meetings. “People seem to want to listen to gossip ... Why don’t you show up for a meeting and see what is really happening?” Jeff Peed He also wants to keep things simple. “Most of the people are Jeff Peed, 60, has lived in here in Crawford for that reason,” he said. As an example, Crawford for two years. He is a the sales tax question is con- bivocational church planter and fusing. The question on the “fixes wrecked cars for a living.” ballot includes an estimate of He is pastor of Grace Commurevenue which will be gener- nity Church of Crawford, which ated if the voters approve a meets at town hall. He and his sale tax on marijuana sales. wife Jennifer have four adult That number is required by children. He was appointed to state law, but is simply a guess. Crawford Town Council last Approving the sales tax mea- September. Prior to his appointment, sure is not approval of the sale of marijuana in town. “People Peed attended many council think marijuana is coming,” meetings as a way to get in said Tiedeman, “which is not touch with his new community. what the ballot question is ask- “It is not really that much difing ... the overall picture is very ferent than a factious church confusing.” business meeting,” he noted. When asked why marijuana As a trustee, he considers the and municipal court continue other person’s point of view to come up on the town coun- when making decisions. He has a wide range of cil agenda, Tiedeman said he personally does not approve of interests, from reading to marijuana. “If the town does hiking, enjoys history, B&B’s vote it in, I would, as a coun- and old houses. He also likes cil member, go along with the motor sports like motorcycle people ... but that hasn’t hap- and street machine racing (the closest track is in Clifton), pened.” The municipal court contin- CRAWFORD COUNCIL TO B4

B2 Wednesday, March 14, 2018

NORTH FORK TIMES

Delta County Independent

Local chapter of Moms Demand Action forms BY TAMIE MECK Staff Writer

The country’s largest organization dedicated to reducing gun violence in America recently formed a chapter in the North Fork Valley. Moms Demand Action For Gun Sense In America North Fork held its first meeting in Paonia on March 1. Organizer and chapter leader Joanna Engman opened the meeting with a brief history of the organization, which was founded by stay-at-home mom Shannon Watts in 2012 in response to the Sandy Hook Elementary School shooting in Newtown, Ct. Since then it has established chapters in all 50 states and has “become the leading force in gun violence prevention,” she said. Like Mothers Against Drunk Driving’s work to reduce drunken and drugged driving through legislative action, Moms Demand Action (MDA) seeks to reduce gun violence at the legislative level, said Engman. Membership in the organization in the weeks following the Feb. 14 shooting at Marjory Stoneman Douglas High School “is swelling like it never did before,” Engman told the half a dozen

citizens who attended the meeting. She said that a recent meeting of a newly formed Grand Junction chapter attracted about 60 interested citizens, and chapters are forming in Crested Butte and Durango. A Colorado native and career nurse, Engman moved to the North Fork area from Grand Junction about a year ago. She never considered herself an activist until October’s shooting in which a lone gunman killed 58 and injured 851 at a Las Vegas concert. Her two teenaged daughters live in Las Vegas and attend school a few blocks away. The night of the shooting, said Engman, she received a text from one of them saying, “Mom, there’s been a shooting.” Engman said the experience left her feeling helpless, “Like I couldn’t protect them.” That night she went on-line and found MDA. As a nurse, she liked that the organization works at the legislative level and bases its actions on evidence showing what is most effective in addressing gun violence. “I joined Moms the next day,” said Engman. A common misconception about the organization, said Engman, is that

members are going after people’s guns. “Many of the members own guns,” she said. What they seek is “common sense legislation to gun control.” Like Mothers Against Drunk Driving, “We are trying to change gun laws and protect our communities from gun violence.” Engman acknowledges that changing gun laws is complicated and divisive, and coming to consensus on solutions to ending gun violence is difficult. “But we all agree that we want these shootings to stop.” She requested to have a police officer attend the chapter meeting after individuals posted on Facebook that they plan to attend with open carries, although they never showed. There is a fear associated with going up against the NRA, which lobbies to protect Second Amendment rights. “But what I’m more afraid of is the violence our children face every day,” said Engman. “We should be able to go to church and to the mall without fear.” Those interested in joining the local MDA chapter can contact Engman on Facebook at Moms Demand Action for Gun Sense in America - North Fork, or visit momsdemandaction.org.

Photo submitted

Paonia Library manager Jane Kelso is being honored for fourteen years of service at the annual Friends of the Paonia Library potluck on Saturday, March 17. Kelso is pictured here outside of Paonia Library with the big blue building blocks that are currently being featured for children’s programs. Kelso is well known for leading weekly storytimes at the library and putting on puppet shows with fellow staff member Laura Lee Yates. Kelso is relocating to be closer to family but says she will take many fond memories with her, particularly the years of storytimes and starting the children’s garden at the library.

Libraries honor Kelso for 14 years of service BY TRACY IHNOT

Delta County Libraries

man reflects. “During the building project, I often relied on her to keep the library operating while I was at various meetings and fundraisers. I am not at all surprised that she was made the manager and has handled that responsibility so well.” Kelso stepped into the role of manager in November 2015. “It’s been a great quantum leap in learning for me,” Kelso says. “The best part has been being a part of building a really fantastic team in Paonia, where everyone is a key player.” Kelso’s co-workers share a very high regard for her and many fond experiences working with her. “Jane was new at the Paonia Library, in the cramped downtown location, when I was hired,” says Laura Lee Yates, Paonia Library staff member. “I always thought we’d retire together! Working with someone as dedicated as Jane has always inspired us to our best work.” Kelso works amidst partially cleaned out filing cabinets and scattered boxes and she prepares to leave her office in good shape for whoever might fill the manager position next. Interviews are still underway and Kelso is a part of the interview-

Jane Kelso has a gentle, quiet way about her in almost everything she does. She brings this calm manner to the way she leads the staff of Paonia Library as manager, the way she responds to patrons at the circulation desk, and the way she introduces children to books during weekly storytimes. “Storytime has been the biggest pleasure through the whole thing,” Kelso smiles. “You see these kids grow up and you get to be a part of introducing them to reading. I think my job was to make it fun.” Kelso has resided in the Crawford area for 27 years and began working for the library district in There are several 2004. At that time, the opportunities to register Paonia Library was locatfor the Hotchkiss Home ed on Grand Avenue, in Plate baseball and soft- the heart of downtown. ball programs: “The library was part March 14 — Crawford of the main street scene Montessori School and then,” Kelso reflects. “The the Maloney House in initial move to the new Hotchkiss, 3:30 to 5 p.m. location was the biggest March 16 — The Malo- change that I have seen ney House in Hotchkiss, during my time here. The 3:30 to 5 p.m. community really came March 21 — Hotchkiss together to make it hapK8 front office, 3:30 to 5 pen. There was a ton of p.m. fundraising and so many March 23 — The Malo- volunteers that helped ney House in Hotchkiss, with the move.” 3:30 to 5 p.m. Myrna Westerman was Please bring registra- the manager of Paonia tion money and a copy Library at that time and of your child’s birth cer- a very important mentor tificate. More informa- to Kelso. “When I was tioncan be found on the manager, I felt very conHotchkiss Home Plate fident leaving things in FROM PAGE B1 Lumber Company, the Facebook page. Jane’s hands,” Westerstart of a 43-year career in the building products industry. His career took him away from the North Fork Valley, but he returned in 1996. �� “The move not only �� gave us the chance to return to our home�� town but it allowed us �� the opportunity to help �� our parents in their later �� years,” he said. �� He retired in 2015 and now feels he has the time �� to devote to community �� service. �� He serves on the �� Hotchkiss Planning Commission and has been �� regularly attending town �� council meetings. �� “I find the dynamics �� and diversity of small �� town government to be very interesting,” he �� said. �� “Everybody has told �� me all the mayor has to �� do is run the meetings. �� That’s not true. Running the meetings is one thing, �� but you have to be able to �� deal with a lot of different �� personalities, a lot of dif�� ferent ideas. You have to �� be well-informed on the issues that are coming up �� before the council. �� “You have to be able �� to handle employees. The �� town doesn’t have a town �� manager at this point, so the mayor is involved �� in some of those employ�� ment issues,” he said. �� At this point, the town �� can’t afford a town man�� ager, and it doesn’t really need one, he said. The �� staff is doing a great job �� and the three depart�� ments seem to work pret�� ty well together. �� A fiscal conservative, he said the town’s lim�� ited revenue must be

Home Plate registration begins in Hotchkiss

ing committee that will select a new manager. “Jane has set a high bar,” says Yates. “She will be very hard to replace.” Many library staff members agree. “Jane’s warm smile and kind demeanor has brought light to the community,” says Sarah Pope, Hotchkiss Library staff member. “We will miss her, but wish her the best in her new adventures.” Kelso’s next chapter in the book of life will take her to rural New Hampshire, where she has family, including a new grandchild on the way. Kelso’s dear friends and co-workers here in Delta County, though sad to see her go, take joy in knowing she will be enjoying time with her family. “I can just picture her reading stories and putting on impromptu puppet shows for her grandchildren,” smiles Lea Hart, district director of Delta County Libraries, with just a hint of sadness in her eyes. The Friends of Paonia Library, along with library staff and the community, will honor Kelso and her many years of service and send her off with well wishes at their annual potluck on Saturday, March 17, starting at 4 p.m.

Hotchkiss mayor

Opinion By Bill Bruner

judiciously managed to provide adequate services. He gives kudos to the clerk’s office, public works department and the police department for providing outstanding service to the citizens while keeping expenditures within budget. “They have been able to save the town money in many ways which allows the town’s surplus to grow,” he said. “We now have an adequate budget surplus that will enable the town to pay for unexpected, expensive infrastructure emergencies if they occur. We must not let our budget surplus erode.” He said the town has been very fortunate to have current and past mayors (Koontz and Jakubiak, respectively) along with their boards of trustees that have kept the health, safety and welfare of the citizens as the town’s main priority. Like a number of other candidates, he would like to see more citizen participation. He encourages all citizens to attend the meetings so they can keep up with what’s going on in town. He hopes the Colorado Main Street Program takes off with collaborative effort from the town, Region 10, the chamber and local business owners. In closing he said, “In the current economic climate of decreasing revenues it will be harder than ever for small towns to keep their heads above water. I believe that I can provide the leadership to not only help Hotchkiss survive but also to thrive in the years to come.”

NORTH FORK TIMES

Delta County Independent

Wednesday, March 14, 2018

Four Hotchkiss candidates will fill four seats BY PAT SUNDERLAND Managing Editor

Four candidates — all female — are poised to fill the four vacant seats on the Hotchkiss Town Council. The top three vote-getters will serve four-year terms; the fourth position is a twoyear term. The mayoral race is a contest between Larry Wilkening and Tom Wills. They are profiled in a separate story in this week’s issue of the DCI. All four trustee candidates are familiar with the role and responsibilities of town trustee. Mary Hockenbery moved to Hotchkiss in 2008 from New Mexico. She began serving on the Hotchkiss Planning Commission in 2010. That led to an interest in downtown improvement and beautification. From planting flowers to purchasing a church in the downtown core and creating the Church of Art, she has worked hard to do her part in investing time and energy in her community. Hockenbery is a photographer and mixed media artist. Esther Koontz is the wife of Hotchkiss Mayor Wendell Koontz, who is term limited. She grew up in rural Kansas and graduated from Kansas State University with a degree in education. After teaching for three years, she moved to Denver and worked in the oil and gas industry. Her job took her to Dallas, Texas, and after five years she and her husband relocated to Utah. After moving to Hotchkiss 21 years ago, she worked for 13 years as the district administrator for the North Fork Pool, Park and Recreation District. Sheila Maki, a lifetime resident of the North Fork Valley, moved to Hotchkiss in 1980. She has been a postal service employee for five years. She served on the Hotchkiss Town Council from 2000 to 2012, and has been involved in numerous community organizations. “I’ve been around the block,” she said. She decided to run for office because she very much enjoyed her service to the town. “I realized I actually missed being on the Hotchkiss Town Council,” she said. Patricia Medina grew up primarily in Delta and moved to Hotchkiss in 1997. She started working for Larry Jakubiak at the North Fork Valley Restaurant in June 1998 and purchased the business in September 2014. She currently serves on the Hotchkiss Town Council, having been appointed to fill a vacancy. The candidates were asked to provide responses to five questions: What are the community’s biggest assets? Hockenbery: Our biggest assets are our location, the people and traditions that make up our community, and our infrastructure. Our town staff has years of experience and our town marshal’s department, public works department and town clerk all work hard to provide us with great infrastructure and services. Koontz: The people. There is a dedicated town staff, a growing business community, caring schools, good medical/dental services, fire and ambulance services, library, recreation district and the fairgrounds and county annex, all working together to make a better Hotchkiss. Maki: Hotchkiss’ biggest asset is the people. Hotchkiss is still a very close-knit community. Everybody takes care of everybody, including the town trustees, who work things out. We really do try to get along. Another asset is the town’s location. A lot of people through Hotchkiss on a regular basis.

Medina: I think our community’s biggest asset right now is the fact that we have several new people buying property and moving into the area with new ideas. As a town councilmember, it is my duty to encourage these “newcomers” to express new ideas to the community on positive changes that would benefit our area. What are the community’s biggest challenges? Hockenbery: One of our biggest challenges is recovery from economic downturn. We all want to see a thriving downtown. I think we’re heading in the right direction. Buildings that have been on the market for years are selling. New buildings are being built and new businesses are coming to town. We will face some challenges from growth. I think having our zoning, Master Plan and planning commission in place will be helpful. We should never take our water for granted. We are facing possible long term drought from climate change and global warming. This could have a disastrous effect on our agricultural community. Koontz: Maintaining our infrastructure during challenging economic times, preparing for town growth in a positive manner and also giving consideration to the “silver tsunami.” Maki: We probably face some of the very same things other towns face in regards to water, sewer, streets and sidewalks and being able to pay for that. Being able to balance the budget for necessary items, as well as some of the nicer things citizens feel we need, like more recreation, more parks. It’s a fine line. Medina: One of our biggest challenges as a community is closed mindedness. People who are afraid to change, because they are comfortable with the way things are. If we as a community are not receptive to changes we will remain behind in the future. Have you reviewed the draft Master Plan? How will this document affect your decision making as a council member? Hockenbery: I’ve read the draft Master Plan. I’m also familiar with the master plan from serving on the planning commission in the past and working on the 2012 update. The Master Plan will help my decision making because it is a detailed list of goals and objectives on a wide variety of topics from infrastructure to community spirit. The Master Plan was first adopted in the fall of 2006, updated in 2012, and updated again this year. Our planning commission has worked hard to create and update this document with input from our community. Koontz: Yes, I have reviewed the Master Plan. First, I would like to thank Tom Wills and the Hotchkiss Planning Commission for putting in numerous hours to prepare this document. With community input and years of experience by those on the commission, this will help affect my decision-making by knowing the direction the citizens want the town to go in the next 5 to 10 years. Maki: I have not reviewed the latest draft, but I will certainly take into account what the community has said they would like to see in Hotchkiss. I believe an earlier Master Plan said people like the smalltown feeling. I tend to be a person who makes my decision based on listening to all of the information, asking questions, reviewing the whole thing. I don’t make my decisions quickly and I don’t make my decisions based on just one factor.

Mary Hockenbery

Esther Koontz

Sheila Maki

Patricia Medina

Medina: Sadly, I have not seen the draft of the Master Plan, so I cannot reply as to how it will affect my decision making at the moment. What direction do you see the Colorado Main Street program taking? Do you have any thoughts on increasing business interest/participation? Hockenbery: I think the Main Street group in Hotchkiss will need to build participation from the business community as well as interested residents and civic groups by networking and personal contact. Time to bring back our monthly downtown meetings over coffee. We are hoping to get a DOLA REDI grant in order to hire a consulting firm to complete an economic development assessment of our business community. Region 10 is helping us move forward with informational meetings and by taking on the REDI grant application. I believe that this process will be vital in increasing business interest/participation and will leave us with some concrete projects to consider. We have other small communities in the area that are working on their downtowns and can show us the way — Cedaredge and Ridgway come to mind — we need to make some time to visit and learn from them. Koontz: I am supportive of the Hotchkiss Area Chamber of Commerce and business community leadership. Maki: I am interested in doing anything we as a council can do to encourage new businesses and help existing businesses, whether that be helping them as a town council or sending them in the direction of the resources that are out there. Businesses along Bridge Street bring in the sales/property tax that allows us to do those other things the community would like to see — paving the streets, keeping the sidewalks nice. There are some very successful business owners on Bridge Street who don’t live in Hotchkiss and therefore aren’t able to vote. Those people who are the bread and butter of downtown Hotchkiss should have a say. Maybe the chamber could help facilitate a more direct relationship with those business owners. Medina: Hopefully the Main Street Program will help local talent make Hotchkiss vibrant, but in a tasteful way. I think if Hotchkiss would have had direction with this a few years ago we could have benefitted a little more. My thoughts on business participation is to get the business owners more involved. There again with people being comfortable with the way things are, no one wants to go the extra distance. And now that Hotchkiss has several new businesses and more coming, we need to get them involved in local affairs. I also think we need to utilize the fairgrounds more than they are. I know this is a fair board issue, but it is part of Delta County. And giving our citizens more activities to do locally should be the goal to helping our county to succeed. Finally, what organizations/entities do you view as vital partners to the Town of Hotchkiss?

Hockenbery: That is a long list! Delta County, Region 10, DCED, DOLA, CDOT, North Fork Mosquito Abatement District, Library, Fire Department, Schools, Hotchkiss Community Chamber of Commerce and our hardworking business community, North Fork Ambulance, Delta County Memorial Hospital and the West Elk Clinic, Hotchkiss Seniors, North Fork Recreation District ... Koontz: I view the following as vital partners to the Town of Hotchkiss: Hotchkiss Community

Chamber of Commerce, Delta County, Delta County School District, North Fork Ambulance, Hotchkiss Volunteer Fire Department, Hotchkiss faith-based community, Hotchkiss Senior Center, North Fork Pool, Park and Recreation District, Delta County Libraries, North Fork Medical Clinic, Region 10 and the Department of Local Affairs. Maki: State entities that are able to provide funding such as DOLA. We need to communicate with other municipalities and the county because

Hotchkiss is right smack in the middle of unincorporated Delta County. Colorado Municipal League, law enforcement entities. Hotchkiss can’t be independent; we need to be in communication and open to having a relationship with whoever we can to the benefit of Hotchkiss, the county and ultimately the state. Medina: The most vital organizations to Hotchkiss in my opinion right now are the Delta County Fair Board and the chamber. We need to work hand in hand.

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B4 Wednesday, March 14, 2018

NORTH FORK TIMES ��

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Delta County Independent

Crawford council FROM PAGE B1 and things like the car cruise to Sonic in Delta or the car show at Zack’s in Hotchkiss. He decided to seek election because of a desire to serve. “I hope I am a voice of reason for the town, to look out for what is best for the community,” he said. “Not everybody will agree, but that’s why I’m there.” A priority for Peed is to help people to lay down their arms and believe the best of others. He saw people stand up and yell at each other during council meetings, which is upsetting. “The people in the audience have a right to speak, but council has the right to keep order,” he said, adding that everyone should be respectful towards one another even if they disagree. “I’m known as the street walker,” said Peed. He does a prayer walk every Monday, stopping at homes around town and visiting and praying with people he meets. It is a way to stay connected with the people in his community. He finds some love it, others don’t. “It is what God calls me to do,” he said. The internet is also a big deal for the town. Peed would like to see broadband service in town, to improve the ability for folks to work from home and to attract off site workers to live in Crawford. He has lived in other communities with good connection speeds and understands the benefits of broadband. In Crawford, he often ends up going to the library when he needs more bandwidth. When asked why marijuana and municipal court continue to come up on the town council agenda, Peed sees both sides of the issue. “Proponents believe it will bring income, the opponents feel it is detrimental to society,” he said. “The proponents think taxes won’t have to be raised because (a marijuana sales tax) will provide income ... but the other side has their voice as well, that it is detrimental to society.” Although the town cannot afford it, he understands that proponents see it as a way to enforce existing laws. “If you see something wrong, it is a way to get something done,” he said. However, he understands that pro marijuana folks are also anti court and a certain segment of Crawford “bristles at the idea of someone telling them to pick up the junk in their yard.” He said all the trustees care about the people of town. As an example, he cited how the town dealt with people living in RV’s and other nonconforming housing. The town informed the people that they were violating state and local codes, and

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gave them time to correct the problem — giving an extension to some who were trying to fix their problem. “Working with people ... is an art,” he said. “I am glad to do my part, to serve.”

and refuse to comply or address those violations.” He added that Crawford is a great place to live and has a lot of great people. “We won’t solve any problems or win arguments through yelling, spreading rumors, making disparaging remarks, or displaying signs ... I would like to encourage folks to become involved in civil discourse with those they disagree and discover that they probably have more in common than they realize. Respect and civility can go a long way and its actually quite satisfying and rewarding,” said Johnson.

“We don’t even know yet the benefits of this plant ... it is really not the ‘evil weed’.” She added that alcohol is the evil of society and pointed out that Crawford has two liquor stores. She also does not believe the town needs a municipal court. Kinder said it appears the council is looking at a court as a way to generate money, and that is the wrong way to determine the need of a court. “A community is like a living organism,” Kinder noted. “The people are the cells. If you don’t nurture all the cells, pretty soon the organism dies.”

Julie Kinder

Jessica Hart

Julie Kinder is 61. She and her husband Roy have six adult children. She was born and raised in Casper, Wyo., and has lived in a lot of towns, from “super small to bigger” than Crawford. She has connections to Crawford through her husband, who had family in the area in the early 1900s. Her husband’s work brought them to Crawford about 15 years ago. Although his work now takes him out of state, Julie said they continue to live in Crawford because they like it here. “It feels like home,” said Kinder. “My spirit is happy here. I’ve traveled all over the country and finally I’ve found where I belong.” She is also proud of being the first woman hired by the Holiday Inn chain in its maintenance department. “I opened doors for other women, and that feels pretty good,” she said. Although she likes Crawford, she is running for town council because of frustration with how the council interacts with the citizens. “It seems they would rather raise taxes instead of working to bring people into the community. They don’t want people in,” she said. “I think the town is dying, and if we don’t start thinking outside the box the town will die completely,” said Kinder. “Then there won’t be a need for town council or anything else.” Revenue, drainage and better water storage are priorities for Kinder. “I have all kinds of ideas for creating more revenue,” said Kinder. She pointed out that there are many things the town could do to help bring more people into the community for a day or two, to spend money. “Pioneer Days is good, why not do a fall festival ... a fishing tournament ... a 5k race ... there are so many things the town can do,” she said. “Until we can bring people to town, to spend money with the businesses, nothing will get better.” She would like the town to allow groups to use the community room for free, to encourage a diversity of groups. She also believes the town should allow retail marijuana shops. It would provide an economic spark which would help local restaurants and stores, which would benefit from the increased number of people visiting the town. “Marijuana keeps coming back on the town’s agenda,” said Kinder, “because the council doesn’t want it, but the people do. It would bring people to town, to buy ... to eat here. The town can’t thrive until the businesses can thrive.” Although marijuana is a divisive issue, Kinder believes there is no need to fear marijuana. “I am an herbalist,” she said.

Jessica Hart, 34, has lived in Crawford more than 20 years. She has left a couple of times but always came back. “It’s just home,” said Hart. She and her husband, John, have four kids, ranging in age from 17 to 4. She works in home health care, working for Valley Care Providers in Paonia, and also works at Diamond Joe Café in Crawford. She and her family love doing anything outdoors, and they spend a lot of time supporting their kids, who are active in sports. Hart decided to run for town council because she felt it was time to get involved. She is upset with the fighting and bickering. “It seems our town kind of got divided, and I hate to see it like that,” she said. “I don’t know if I can make a big change on that, but I figured I should try.” Her biggest priority would be addressing the rift between the people in town. She said she gets along with people on both sides of the big issues, such as marijuana. There is also a need to rebuild the trust between the town and its people. “I agree with bits and pieces from both sides. Hopefully everyone can calm down and try to get along,” added Hart. She also notes there is a lot of little stuff the town could address, a lot of things which needs fixing. “We have some momentum,” said Hart as she pointed to new restaurants and people cleaning up store fronts and properties. “Hopefully we can get our town growing again,” she added. When asked why marijuana and municipal court continue to come up on the town council agenda, Hart replied, “I don’t know why it has been blown out into the big deal it has become. People need to look at it from different perspectives ... the town could use the tax revenue, and I also understand the perspective of not letting it get out of control.” She has talked with a lot of folks in town who would be okay with marijuana stores in town, as a way to bring in significant tax dollars. As for municipal court, Hart believes the town cannot afford one. Although she can see why the town needs to deal with persistent problems like barking dogs or speeding, Hart said, “Why can’t we just talk to each other ... try to be the friendly little town that we say we are.” She attended her first town council meeting recently, and said she would go to more meetings in the future, even if she is not elected. “It is what we should do,” said Hart.

Chris Johnson Chris Johnson, 58, was born and raised in Paonia, graduating from Paonia High School in 1977. He attend Colorado School of Mines, and graduated from the University of Colorado with a BA in environmental design (architecture). He and his wife Kim have six children, all are also graduates of PHS. They moved to Crawford in 1993. He was pastor of the Crawford Friends Church for three and a half years and has worked a variety of other jobs including Mountain West Communications and RE/MAX Mountain. He worked for West Elk Mine for 10 years, and was laid off in June 2016. He is currently working on a Master’s degree in counseling along with his wife through Colorado Christian University. He was appointed to town council in March 2017. “I would like to continue to serve,” said Johnson. “I’ve been able to get familiar with the process ... I can offer leadership and insight as the town works through difficult and important issues.” He added, “I want to represent all the citizens of the town. I’m not afraid to reach out to those who I may not agree with, or those who have had some past conflicts with the town. I’m especially concerned about divisions within the community and would like to help opposing sides learn to communicate and understand each other.” Priorities for Johnson include budget, code compliance, drainage, and public input. He is excited that the town is working with DOLA. “We will look to them for ideas and direction, including budgetary ideas and obtaining grants for specific projects,” he said. He would also improve public input. “We need to find ways to get more input from the town folks,” said Johnson. “The only time some people speak up is if they are angry or if there is a conflict and people show up to take sides.” He suggests the town could host information coffees or meetings to hear ideas. “We should sit down and talk with each other,” he said, “as opposed to shouting at each other.” When asked why marijuana and municipal court continue to come up on the town council agenda, Johnson said, “Marijuana is not only a divisive issue in Crawford but is still so throughout the county and state as well. It seems that people are for it or against it and there is no in-between.” Noting there are many fears and concerns about marijuana that may or may not be accurate, Johnson would like to see objective and unbiased reports on all aspects of legalized marijuana. “I’m personally not in favor of a municipal court nor do I sense that from a majority of the council. I’m not sure why it is such a contentious issue for some people,” he said. “I am in favor of exploring ideas where we can address these issues by communicating and working with offenders, and then ultimately seek action in district court against those who willfully violate town ordinance

LOCAL NEWS

Delta County Independent

Wednesday, March 14, 2018

Drama club presents trio of comedies SPECIAL TO THE DCI

The Hotchkiss High School Drama Club will present three comedies in one March 22 and 23. “Two of the comedies are by one of our favorite playwrights, Don Zolidis,” said director Lenore Cambria. “He wins us over with clever dialogue and situations every time.” “Squad Goals” delivers crackpot coaches of a ragtag basketball team looking for one more inspirational (not necessary talented) player, but with the attributes of many

fictional sports movie heroes. “Feed the Whales: The Saga of The Boy Band Oreo,” also by Zolidis, is about a conniving tour promoter trying to create a new boy band to star in the annual Feed the Whales Festival. Unfortunately for him, there is a shortage of boys in town and he has to fill in with questionable characters, including one who may or may not have escaped from a mental hospital. The third comedy, “10 Reasons You Should Have Stayed Home Sick Today,”

is by E.M. Bell. The play outlines 10 good reasons to miss some everyday high school situations that make one cringe and wish they would have stayed home sick. This year’s outstanding cast includes Nolan Egging, Morgan Miller, Jordan Denison, Josie Hiatt, Shelby Hiatt, Ruby Shiflet, Alyssa Palecki, Katie Powers, Lexi Wrich, JD Miller, Aubree Harward, Kade Harward, Evan Mattison, Tessa Griffith, Ava Taylor, Isabella Spano, Sydnie West, and Saul

Cortez. Assistant directors are Susan Hamrick and Brandi Goddard. “Many of the actors have been cast in multiple roles, which makes it fun to see how they can be different characters within each show,” says Cambria. “They’ve really brought these shows to life. Many of these actors are veterans to this stage and they’ve all brought a lot of spark and joy to the community through their performances over the years. “Others you will see for the first time as they debut on the HHS stage. Please come, enjoy yourPhoto submitted by Roan Spencer selves, and show your support once again for the Hotchkiss High School On Tuesday, Feb. 20, the Mt. Lamborn 4-H Club Drama Club.” made six tie blankets for the newborn infants Show time is at 7 p.m. at Stork’s Landing, the OB department at Delta nightly, and tickets, availCounty Memorial Hospital. This is one of many the door, with proceeds able at the door, are $6 community service projects the club particigoing to purchase musi- for adults, $4 for seniors pates in throughout the year. cal instruments for local and students. high school students in Gwinn’s memory. A silent auction featuring more than 70 donated goods and services including weekend getaways, house concerts, a jet boat ride out of Gunnison River Pleasure Park, a professional photo shoot, and firewood, will run from 5-9 p.m. Friday at �� Lehman Images, 217 Grand Avenue across the �� street from the Blue Sage. �� The public is welcome. �� Bids can also be made by phone or at the “Funds �� for Mike Gwinn’s Medical Expenses” Facebook �� event page. Auction winners will be announced �� at 9:30 p.m., at the Blue Sage. ��

Celebration of life for Mike Gwinn on Friday This Friday night’s “Music for Mike” concert to raise funds for longtime Paonia musician Mike Gwinn will now be held as a celebration of life after Gwinn passed away on Saturday. Local musicians will pay tribute to Gwinn

from 7-11 p.m., at the Blue Sage Center for the Arts. Among the performers are the Bromigos, The Scones, Gustavo Brett, MOJO, Dave Sheppard and Ellen Hutto, and Bill and Sarah Bishop. Admission is a suggested $20 donation at

Photo by Tamie Meck

North Fork musician Mike Gwinn performs at a 2016 fundraiser. A concert and silent auction planned for Gwinn this Friday night will now be a celebration of life after Gwinn died on March 10. Proceeds will go toward purchase of instruments for local high school students.

Winnie’s Navajo Taco Night returns “Winnie’s Navajo Taco Night” on Friday, March 16, is a fundraiser for downtown revitalization and the Farm to Fiddle festival to be held in downtown Hotchkiss in August. Winnie’s Restaurant was famous for its Navajo tacos, said Farm to Fiddle co-creator Marsy Moore. Her in-laws, Bill and Jackie Moore, opened Winnie’s in the early 1970s at the current location of Hightower Cafe and ran it off and on

through the mid 1980s. The fundraiser will take place at Heritage Hall on the Delta County Fairgrounds. Dinner will be served from 5 to 7:30 p.m. Music will be provided by David and Tamra Hauze, and door prizes will be awarded. Tickets are $10 and must be purchased in advance. Get your tickets at squareup.com or stop by Gambles Ace Hardware or Delta County Federal Credit Union.

Learn about the Hermit of Hubbard Creek The Hermit of Hubbard Creek, Rueben Dove, spent the last years of his life as a recluse, living under a ledge up Hubbard Creek. Learn more about him at a presentation in Hotchkiss on March 17. In 1888 Dove was arrested by Gunnison County sheriff, Doc Shores, for setting railroad ties on fire. Dove maintained that a railroad contractor had cheated him out of payment for the ties he had cut. The contractor rejected the ties, but took them anyway, without paying Rueben. Dove spent a few months in the Gunnison County jail, but was

acquitted of the crime. He vowed then to never work for anyone again. While he was never accused, Dove may have robbed the Ouray bank for a source of funds. He paid for what supplies he needed with $20 gold pieces. He was found gravely ill in the spring of 1926 and taken to relatives near Crawford, where he died. Jill Vandenburg has researched the life of Rueben Dove for several years. She will present a program on Dove’s life at the Hotchkiss-Crawford Historical Museum at 180 Second Street in Hotchkiss on Saturday, March 17, at 1:30 p.m.

March Monologue Madness planned Paonia Players is back! Presenting “March Monologue Madness” Friday and Saturday, March 16 and 17, 7 p.m. at the Paradise Theater in Paonia. A twist on this month’s basketball tournament, the event will bring 16 actors to the stage, performing 30 different monologues, with the audience voting on which actors advance to the next round. One winner will be named at each performance. Directed by Mer-

rily Talbott and hosted by Adam Burke, March Monologue Madness will sure to entertain with an evening of PG-13 theatre never seen in the North Fork Valley before. From Shakespeare to Charlie Brown, the monologues will draw on material that is dramatic, comedic and inspiring. Tickets are $15 in advance, $20 day of show, and can be found online at brownpapertickets. com and at the theater.

Made with love

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North Fork Reads! Delta County Libraries joins the Blue Sage Literary Committee and The Paradise Theater in presenting “A Wrinkle in Time” by Madeleine L’Engle, the first North Fork Reads! Copies of the book are available at all five libraries in Delta County. At checkout the reader will receive a ticket to attend a free showing of the film at the Paradise Theater on April 15. The ticket is good for any show time of the film starting April 6. All Delta County residents are invited to participate.

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B6 Wednesday, March 14, 2018

LOCAL NEWS

Delta County Independent

Delta Police Department, sheriff’s blotter From the Delta Police Department: March 4: Dawn M. Simmons, 54, of Delta was arrested for an outstanding warrant with a $750 bond. Officers responded to the 1100 block of Bluff Street for possible drug activity. Officers responded to an address on Eaton Avenue for a report of theft. Officers received a report of a theft and fraudulent use of a debit card at an address on Grand Avenue. Emily E. Anderson, 20, of Delta was arrested for an outstanding warrant with a $100 bond. Joshua J. Oard, 23, of Delta was arrested for obstruction of telephone service, assault in the third degree, child

abuse and violation of bail bond conditions. Officers took a report of a theft in the 200 block of E 3rd Street. March 5: Erric L. West, 22, of Delta was arrested for driving under the influence, drove when revoked and violation of a protection order. Sabrina R. Daniels, 39, of Delta was arrested for an outstanding warrant with a $300 bond. Officers responded to an address on Industrial Boulevard for a report of property damage. Officers responded to Quality Inn at 180 Gunnison River Drive for a report of trespassing. Officers responded to the area of Delta County Memorial Hospital for a report of a

In the money

Debbie Werner-Cayo and Tyler Werner of Delta (right) won first place for the heaviest two fish at an ice fishing tournament Saturday, March 3, at Blue Mesa. Tyler and Debbie won $500. In that category, Aaron Valdez, Tom Dicamillo, Gail Dicamillo and Dean Dicamillo placed second for $180 and Kevin Fee earned $80 for third place. Most species winners were Tom Parsons and Tom Parsons Jr., first, $500. For the heaviest lake trout under 22 inches, Shawn and Collin won first place and $500. The tournament was sponsored by Sport Fish Colorado and Gunnison First Baptist Church.

suspicious male. Christopher L. Moffat, 34, of Delta was issued a summons for shoplifting. March 6: Officers responded to the 600 block of Crawford Avenue for a burglary. Officers responded to Lincoln Elementary School for an incident regarding a juvenile. Officers took a report of a theft in the 600 block of Dodge Street. Officers responded to Anytime Fitness on a suspicious incident. Michael L. Blair, 31, of Delta was arrested for a warrant with a $300 bond. Mark A. Porter, 32, of Delta was arrested for possession of drug paraphernalia and violation of a protection order. March 7: Michael S. Herbert, 60, of

Photo by Robby Richardson/Sport Fish Colorado

Crawford was arrested for driving on the wrong side of highway and driving under the influence. Officers responded to the 700 block of E 5th Street for a report of harassment. Laura L. Clark, 37, of Delta was arrested for an outstanding warrant with a $2,500 bond. Officers took a report of an incident involving a dog on Columbine Circle. Johnathan E. Bozeman, 28, of Cedaredge was arrested for disorderly conduct. Officers responded to 220 North Palmer Street for a report of a controlled substance being located. March 8: Officers responded to 25 Stafford Lane for a report of a fire. A civil issue was reported in the 700 block of Meeker Street. Officers responded to the 300 block of Meeker Street for a vehicle trespass. Omar A. Vazquez, 20, of Grand Junction was arrested for an outstanding warrant with a $300 bond. March 9: Officers responded to Delta High School where a juvenile male was charged with harassment. Officers responded to a theft from Bill Heddles Recreation Center. Alena Pacler-Holloman, 62, of Olathe was issued a summons for speeding and fictitious plates. Christopher R. Lovato, 19, of Grand Junction was issued a summons on charges of possession of 2 ounces or less of marijuana under 21. March 10: Officers responded to Dairy Queen for a report of broken windows. Joseph R. Wright, 23, of Clifton was issued a summons on charges of drove vehicle with license denied and limitations on backing. Michael A. Finn, 26, of Montrose was arrested and jailed on charges of unlawful possession of a controlled substance, violation of bail bond conditions, theft, possession of drug paraphernalia and open alcoholic beverage container. Citations: Eight tickets were issued this week for various traffic violations. Please remember: All criminal charges are merely an accusation and the defendant is presumed innocent until or

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unless proven guilty. From the Delta County Sheriff’s Office (partial list): March 5: An Eckert resident reported an attempted break-in at her residence on Highway 65. Nothing appeared to be missing, but she found footprints outside her back door. Deputies investigated a report of threatening messages via Facebook. A burglary was reported at a cabin on Grand Mesa. A window was broken to gain entry. Inside, things were scattered about but the only thing missing was a vacuum cleaner. A single-vehicle rollover was reported on Highway 92 near Crawford at about 12:30 p.m. North Fork Ambulance also responded to assist the female driver, Janet Camire. The Colorado State Patrol handled the investigation. Deputies and Cedaredge firefighters responded to a fire on Valley View Drive, Eckert. The blaze was contained to a shed on the property. Deputies noted a blackened area around a power strip with multiple cords. The incident is under investigation. A resident on B Road reported a possible theft from a shed on her property. The shed contained her son’s possessions, so she was unable to determine exactly what was missing. March 7: Shortly before 2 a.m., deputies were called to assist Montrose County authorities with a break-in at a home on Highway 348. A neighbor saw five males and two females in the house. Deputies issued a written warning to an individual burning trash in three large barrels on Ivanhoe Road in Austin. Burning trash is prohibited in the county. At about 8 p.m., deputies were dispatched to an accident near the intersection of 1400 Road and F Road in Delta. A vehicle driven by Dante Slim of Fontana, Calif., slid through the intersection and came to rest in the ditch on the north side of the road. The Colorado State Patrol handled the investigation. March 8: Two 911 calls were received concerning a greenhouse on fire on Highway 133 east of Hotchkiss. Hotchkiss firefighters and the Hotchkiss

Marshal’s Office also responded to the blaze. Traffic was held for a short time as the fire was close to the highway. Marlin McCracken, the owner of the property, believed the fire was caused by a leaking propane heater inside the greenhouse. The heater, a riding lawn mower and wood chipper were destroyed. Deputies executed a search warrant at 748 Grand Avenue, Delta, where they located items believed stolen from two residences in Delta County the previous day. The list of stolen items included jewelry, credit cards, firearms and tools. Daniel and Kristi Duran, both of Delta, were charged with two counts of burglary and theft and transported to Delta County Jail. At about 1 p.m., a fire was reported at 21620 H75 Road, Delta. Gerald Davis was burning a ditch when the wind came up. Damage extended to two trees on a neighbor’s property. A car driven by Sarah Argueta, 20, of Orchard City rolled several times during a traffic accident on 2100 Road near the intersection with Knight Road. Argueta was transported to Delta County Memorial Hospital. The Colorado State Patrol is investigating the accident, which occurred around 3 p.m. March 9: Deputies investigated a domestic dispute on D50 Road near Delta. An out-of-control grass fire was reported on 1940 Road, Delta, at about 1 p.m. The fire destroyed a garage containing three trailers, a Suzuki dirt bike, a 2000 Toyota 4Runner, a 2007 Polaris Ranger, a 2004 Honda ATV, a 2004 Polaris Sportsman, a 2017 Kawasaki ATV, a 16-foot canoe, a riding lawn mower, and five other rafts. The owner of the property is David Loveland, who was storing some of the items for friends. March 10: At about 12:30 p.m., deputies and Cedaredge firefighters responded to a fire at 21107 Mountain Village Drive in Eckert. Richard Barnett was burning weeds along his driveway when the fire spread to a neighbor’s property, damaging shrubs and a fence. In response to a Safe2Tell tip, deputies did a welfare check on a male juvenile who was reportedly making suicidal threats.

SPORTS

Delta County Independent

SPORTS March 14, 2018

Wednesday, March 14, 2018

www.deltacountyindependent.com

Bruin girls hoop team 21-4 BY WAYNE CRICK DCI Sports Editor

The 2017-18 girls basketball season was a successful one for Cedaredge High School. The Bruins led the 3A WSL for most of the season before being overhauled late in the season and finishing in a four-way tie at the top of league standings with a 7-2 record. Moffat County was the top team with Grand Valley, Cedaredge and Delta filling out the top four spots. Cedaredge moved through the early stages of this year’s state championships with wins over Liberty Common (35-24) and Jefferson Adademy (38-35) before falling to this year’s state champions St. Mary’s 64-33 last weekend. The Bruins finished the year with a more-than-respectable record of 21-4. St. Mary’s finished the year with a 26-1 mark and a state title while

Colorado Springs Christian finished second with a 23-4 record. Lamar, the third-place team in Class 3A, finished the year with a 22-5 record and Moffat County was fourth with its record of 20-7. Against St. Mary’s on March 8, Cedaredge could not find its offense in the first quarter and had to be content with Addison Schwarz’s one for two free throw performance. St. Mary’s senior Makenna Bodette scored 12 of her team’s 22 first quarter points helping the Pirates sail to a huge advantage Cedaredge would not be able to overcome. Bodette added another six points to her totals in the second quarter boosting St. Mary’s lead to 37-10 by halftime. Grace Andrews hit a pair of three-pointers for Cedaredge to keep the Bruins within shouting distance in a 15-9 secondquarter of a Pirates’ run.

St. Mary’s scoring advantage remained high in the second half, but it was not the scoring of Bodette that fueled the Pirates’ offense. Sophomores Josephine Howery scored eight points and Catherine Cummings added nine in the second half to pick up the scoring slack. Bodette had just four points in the second half, but finished with 24 to lead all scorers in the game. Cedaredge showed some signs of its seasonlong defensive ability by limiting the Pirates to just 10 points in the third quarter. The Bruins’ offense, with four points each from junior Courtney Freeman and freshman Kammie Henderson, outscored St. Mary’s 12-10 in the third quarter. The Pirates put together a strong fourth quarter offensively to finish the game with a 17-11 run for the 64-33 win.

Cedaredge coach Ryan Hilbig hinted he was a bit bummed by the recent loss to St. Mary’s. He also noted his Bruins played a really good team and that the Pirates were, “the real deal.” “I’m so glad we made the tournament and regretful we got the best the tournament had to offer in the first game,” said Hilbig. In assessing the top two reasons the Bruins lost to St. Mary’s, Hilbig said turnovers and rebounding were the keys.

“We had 14 tournovers in the first half and had just three offensive rebounds for the whole game. If we missed a shot, they got the rebound and had a fastbreaking team that scored at the other end.” Another tone-setting fact in the game was the first few minutes of the game. “We ran our first play and had a wide open layup that rimmed out after we had just gotten a defensive stop,” quoted Hilbig. For Hilbig the basketball journey at Cedaredge

High School has all but come to an end. The search for a new coach is on and Hilbig is still working on a summer schedule and plans to assist until a replacement is found and he moves on. Hilbig will have one final shot as the Cedaredge coach in this weekend’s Colorado Coaches of Girls Sports game where he was selected to coach one of the teams. Cedaredge senior Jade McGovern was also selected to play in the seniors’ only game.

Panthers’ diamond crew blanks RF Rams The 2018 baseball season began as it did a year ago with a win over Roaring Fork’s Rams. Delta defeated the Rams 8-1 in its season opener last year and dealt a 10-0 loss to them to begin the 2018 season on March 9. Delta’s season was extended last year with playoff games against Rye and Valley. Delta won its opening playoff contest against Rye, 15-1, then fell to Valley, 20-17, to end its season. Last week’s game, against Roaring Fork in Delta, was controlled by three pitchers in a 10-0 shutout in five innings. Senior Drake Horn was on the mound first for the Panthers and pitched two innings of shutout ball with five strikeouts. Senior Jaspar Carmichael pitched the next two innings giving up one hit and struck out six batters. Senior Dylan Hollenbeck had the fifth inning and delivered a perfect inning with three strikeouts to end the game. A three-run first inning was highlighted by senior Josh Reeder’s two-run blast. The Panthers added a fourth

run in the bottom of the second inning on a Hollenbeck sharp single that scored Carmichael, who had reached base on a single and was on second with a stolen base. Neither team scored in the third and the Rams were shut down in the fourth after getting a hit and a walk off reliever Jaspar Carmichael in the fourth. Carmichael went on to strike out three in the inning to leave two men on. Delta’s bats were busy in the bottom of the fifth with six hits producing six runs to end the game, 10-0. Reeder started the inning with a single followed by a double from junior Trevor Myers, a single from Rowyn Carmichael (two-RBI hit), a double from senior KC Carlson, a triple from junior Clayton Abila (twoRBI hit) and a single off the bat of senior Matt Easter. Reeder, Jaspar Carmichael, Carlson and Myers all had two hits each in the Panthers win. Delta coach Steve Reiher was happy with the win and had this to say about his team’s play. “I was really happy with the way we started the season. I thought we did

the little things right for the most part and took advantage of some miscues by Roaring Fork. I was really pleased with the three pitchers we used. I thought they were all efficient, and for the first outing, I thought they were throwing with good velocity and hitting spots.” Reeder’s work at the plate was also discussed. “We (coaching staff) were talking about how over the last two years Josh has had a number of clutch hits. He can flat swing it!” Delta faces 2A Paonia, last year’s 2A State Champion (25-0) on March 15 at Volunteer Park in Paonia at 4 p.m. The Eagles slipped past Delta, 4-2, in last year’s contest. The Panthers are on the road for games in Erie, a Tri-Valley League member, March 16 at 4 p.m. and are in Niwot, a Northern League member, March 17, for an 11 a.m. contest. Both schools are Class 4A schools. Delta heads into next week (March 21) with a home game with 5A Grand Junction scheduled for a 4 p.m. start. The Panthers lost a 6-5 squeaker to the Tigers a year ago.

Drake Horn

Jaspar Carmichael

Dylan Hollenbeck

BY WAYNE CRICK DCI Sports Editor

Photo courtesy Amie Henderson

Cedaredge coach Ryan Hilbig (background) walks the sideline as his junior point guard, Courtney Freeman moves the ball up court.

Photo courtesy Amie Henderson

Cedaredge senior Grace Andrews (2) prepares to either screen for Courtney Freeman or receive the ball.

Peebles to Gunnison....

Photo by Wayne Crick

Delta senior Matt Easter slides safely into second base after the ball got past Roaring Fork defenders last Friday afternoon. The Panthers blanked Roaring Fork, 10-0, in ﬁve innings.

Photo submitted

Hotchkiss senior Colton Peebles has committed to play football for Western State Colorado University in Gunnison. Joining Peebles on national signing day are parents Amy and Gary Peebles; back row, from left, HHS athletic director/assistant football coach Doug Horton, brothers Blaine and Jace, and head football coach Curtis Hintz. Peebles is a two-time Western Slope League all-conference player and rushed for 1,269 yards and averaged 6.8 yards per carry his senior year. In 2016 he was named the league’s Returner of the Year, and in 2017 was named the WSL Punter of the Year.

B8 Wednesday, March 14, 2018

SPORTS

Delta County Independent

Bruin hardballers win The Cedaredge Bruins have gotten off to a good start to the 2018 campaign with a 10-0 win in Gypsum over the Eagle Valley Devils on Saturday, March 10. Details of the game were not available. Cedaredge will partici-

pate in a weekend tournament to be hosted by Montezuma-Cortez on March 16 and 17. The Bruins will face host Cortez in a firstround contest on Friday, March 16 at 12 noon. Next up for Cedaredge is a 2 p.m. match up against

Montrose. Saturday’s schedule for Cedaredge is a 12 noon game against Glenwood Springs. Next weekend features a doubleheader against Monte Vista on the Bruins home field at 12 and 2 p.m.

Former Delta coach selected to Colorado Coaches Hall of Fame

Photo courtesy Amie Henderson

St. Mary’s Brooklyn Valdez is met by three Cedaredge Bruins as she attempts to get to the rim last week in the 3A state basketball tournament held at Denver University. Bruin defenders Camie Baldozier (12), Kammie Henderson (4) and Grace Andrews (2) prevented Valdez from getting a shot. St. Mary’s won the game 64-33 and went on to win the state title.

Former Delta High School basketball coach Al Blanc has been selected to enter the Colorado Coaches Hall of Fame. Blanc has been a part of coaching the game of basketball for 45 years and jokingly stated, “I’ve been selected because of longevity!” Blanc, who played at Glenwood Springs High School, has been a coach in many places with Delta being one of those stopping places. The induction ceremo-

nies are to be held on March 24 at the Radisson Hotel in Denver (4849 Bannock Street). Festivities are scheduled to begin at 4:30 p.m. with dinner to follow. In talking with Blanc, his belief in what the presentation means to him is an award for the many he has come in contact with over the years. “It’s not for me. It’s for all the players I’ve coached, the coaches I’ve coached with, all the fans who have followed their teams

and the parents who have allowed me to be a part of their kids’ lives ... they are all going to be in the hall with me.” Going on, Blanc said, “It means a lot to me to have had relationships with so many players and that’s what is has been about. It’s an opportunity (coaching) to stay connected to young people and it’s something I love and I do not want to quit unless my health fails or I’m not wanted anymore.”

Hotchkiss gets new grip

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BY TAMIE MECK DCI Sports Writer

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Teams competing at the Hotchkiss Bulldog Track and Field Invitational on March 24 will have something to really sink their cleats into following improvements to Bulldog Stadium last summer. Among those improvements are a new surface on the eight-lane track, new high jump pad, and long and triple jump runways. “It’s so nice,” said longtime track coach Kelly Cowan during a recent practice. “The surface needed to be replaced.” More than a year ago the track was stripped

down to its asphalt base in preparation for resurfacing. As a result, Hotchkiss moved its annual invitational meet last spring to Delta High School. While moving the meet was a big inconvenience, resurfacing the track was a matter of safety. When water would leach in below the surface, the asphalt base would crack from the freeze-and-thaw cycle and the clay soil below would settle, resulting in cracks and uneven surfaces. The inside lane, especially on the curves, was uneven and unsafe. Exposing the base to the open air, said Cowan,

allowed it to dry out before applying the new surface. Fisher Tracks out of Boone, Iowa, resurfaced the track with a rubbery polyurethane base mat that’s soft and permeable. Cowan said the rubberized surface offers better grip for runners, and for jumpers and hurdlers who really need the traction. “As a coach, you have to worry about slipping,” he said. The old surface was wearing away and in some places, including the launch points for the jumps, was worn smooth. The springier soft surface also means fewer shin splints and other

injuries caused from training on hard surfaces. The facility also has new handicap accessible home bleachers, and the new visitor bleachers allow for excellent views of the long jump, said Cowan. Delta, Cedaredge, Paonia and Hotchkiss will compete this Saturday at the Panther Invitational at Delta High School. Schedules, meet records and other information can be found at scottmeets.wikispaces. com. Heat sheets are posted the night prior to the meets, and results are posted after completion of each event.

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G-Youth

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Thanks to all the coaches and volunteers too! ��

Photo by Tamie Meck

Hotchkiss High School track coach Kelly Cowan runs athletes through hurdle drills on the recently resurfaced eight-lane track at Bulldog Stadium. Hotchkiss will host its ﬁrst track and ﬁeld meet at the upgraded facility on March 24.

SURFACE CREEK March 14, 2018

NEWS

Section

www.deltacountyindependent.com

Crane Days this weekend The seventh annual Eckert Crane Days, the annual viewing of the sandhill cranes migrating north from New Mexico through Colorado’s West Slope, will be March 16-18. Representatives from the Black Canyon Chapter of the Audubon Society (BCAS) Photo by Ellie Tunget will be at the viewing site east of Eckert at Fruitgrowers Reservoir, 9 to 11 a.m. each day, to answer questions and provide binoculars and spotting scopes. There could be as many as 20,000 cranes heading north from New Mexico to Idaho over the next month and local observers are already starting to see migrating cranes. Over 5,000 cranes already have been reported in the San Luis Valley, the stopover site before they head north to Fruitgrowers. The cranes stop overnight to feed and rest at the reservoir and gener- Photo by Ellie Tunget ally start lifting off to head on the next leg of their spring journey between 10-11 the following morning. Viewers are asked to remain at the viewing site or along the road and not approach the birds. The viewing site, Crane Point, is reached by taking Highway 92 east of Delta four miles to Highway 65, then north six miles to the Big E Market, then turn east on North Road to Crane Point. Viewers are asked to park at the parking lot or off the highway along North Road and be careful of traffic. There will be an added bonus this year, a free lunch provided by the Hart Ranch just north of the viewing area to begin at 12:30 on Saturday, March 17. Details will be provided at the BCAS booth. The new owners of the Hart Ranch intend to develop the agricultural land in a sustainable way and want to meet their local, conservation-minded neighbors. Also on the schedule is a winemaker’s reception for Eckert Crane Days from 5:30 to 7 p.m. on Friday, March 16, at The Graystone, 21565 North Road. Stoney Mesa Winery winemaker Bret Neal will be featured. Cost is $15 per person; RSVP to 8749532. For more information contact Geoff Tischbein, 615-7329 or check the BCAS website: www.blackcanyonaudubon. org/field-trips.

Appointment becomes ofﬁcial

At a special meeting held last week, Greg Brinck ofﬁcially took the oath of ofﬁce to serve as Cedaredge’s new town administrator. On hand for the ceremony were the town trustees (left to right) mayor pro tem Raymond Hanson, treasurer Patti Michael, mayor Eugene Welch, Brinck, town clerk J. Chris Anderson (who administered the oath), and trustees Bob Michael, Al Smith and Dayton Myers. Brinck is a 2016 graduate of the School of Public Affairs at the University of Colorado Denver, and at age 30 he becomes one of the youngest town administrators serving in Colorado.

Brinck named town administrator BY DON BENJAMIN Staff Writer

The Town of Cedaredge board of trustees held a special meeting last week to finalize a contract appointing Greg Brinck as town administrator. Brinck began work with the town in January 2016 as an administrative intern. He was the sole finalist for the position. He has been serving as interim town administrator since the departure last year of town administrator Katie Sickles. Following the special meet-

ing, the trustees held a work session during which they discussed reservoir water levels and a timeline for possible drought planning. Public works co-director Scott Lock shared information indicating that Gunnison River basin snow depth and water content are running behind historic averages. As of the first week of March 2018, snow depth was at 73 percent of average and snow-water content was 62 percent of average. Given these figures and the prospect for increased moisture this

spring, Lock reported that it is too soon to declare a drought. However he assured trustees that he will continue to monitor the situation and keep them informed. In other work session activities, the trustees previewed the agenda for their regular meeting scheduled for Thursday, March 15, at 5 p.m. in the Grand Mesa Room of the Civic Center at 140 NW 2nd Street in Cedaredge. On March 15 the trustees will take action on the following items:

• The designation of five town properties as historic preservation sites. • A resolution concerning employee golf benefits. • A resolution to revise the town’s facility rental fee process. An ordinance to • authorize the execution and delivery of a loan agreement between the town and the Colorado Water Resources and Power Development Authority. The loan agreement will finance the Highway 65 waterline replacement project.

Eckert woman defines courage BY DON BENJAMIN Staff Writer

When I was a cub reporter in high school, they gave me advice. And when I worked as a journalist in the Army, they said the same thing. The advice was this: Don’t ever begin a story with the sentence “There are many kinds of courage.” But neither my faculty advisor for the school paper nor the lieutenant in charge of my military magazine could have predicted the brave woman I met this month — the one who calls Eckert home. If they knew her, they would forgive me for saying it. There are many kinds of courage. There is the courage of soldiers and firefighters and police who run toward danger. There is the courage of ideals that guided America’s founding fathers. There is the courage of those who speak out against injustice. And there is the kind of courage that radiates from Leasha Lindley. Twenty-four hours a day, seven days a week, Leasha lives with the knowledge that

Photo by Don Benjamin

Mark and Leasha Lindley have come to terms with the reality of her multiple sclerosis. She has decided to donate her brain and other organs to medical research and she hopes her decision will inspire others to become organ donors. she will never rise to greet a visitor, never shake a hand, never hold a spoon, never pet her cats, never pick up a telephone, never walk again. Leasha has MS — multiple sclerosis — a debilitating neu-

Orchard City voters have three different tax questions In addition to electing three members to the board of trustees, Orchard City voters will consider three different tax questions on this year’s municipal election ballot. All were referred to the ballot by the Orchard City Board of Trustees. Measure 2D asked voters to approve the imposition of a property tax mill levy of 6.5 mills, with revenues directed to a public safety and health fund. It is estimated the measure will generate $130,000 annually. The question states the revenues will be used to fund road construction, operation, maintenance, repair, replacement, expansion, rehabilitation and renovation; public works operations equipment; and funding law enforcement services (such as contracting with a separate agency), as well as law enforcement

Photo by Don Benjamin

operation expenses, supplies, equipment and capital expenditures relating the public safety. Measure 2E would authorize the town to impose a sales tax of up to 5 percent on the sale of retail marijuana and marijuana products, in addition to any municipal sales tax on such items. It also authorizes an excise tax of up to 5 percent on retail marijuana sold or transferred from a cultivation facility to another retail marijuana establishment. The measure also authorizes an occupation tax of up to $10 for each sales transaction by any medical or retail marijuana facility, retail marijuana cultivation facility and retail marijuana product manufacturing facility within the town limits. It is estimated this tax measure will generate $130,000 annually. The measure also

directs the revenue from these taxes to a public health and safety fund, to fund the same items as listed in Measure 2D. The third tax question, Measure 2F, would impose a 3 percent municipal sales tax for the Town of Orchard City. It is estimated to raise $65,000 annually. The revenues are also directed to a public safety and health fund, to fund the same items as listed in Measure 2D. Each tax question also exempts the new taxes from TABOR restrictions. Each is a separate tax question, and voters could approve one, two or all three measures. The Orchard City municipal election is being conducted by mail, and ballots are to be mailed out this week. Voters must return the ballots by Tuesday, April 3.

rological condition. She is paralyzed from the neck down. She is not going to get better. “I can’t cry,” she says and she means it — she is literally unable to cry because she has lost the ability to make tears. “I can’t cry, but I can laugh, so I laugh.” Leasha has made peace with her disease. She has decided to make both her living and her dying meaningful. Some people wonder about the future, but Leasha no longer wonders. Leasha has a pathologist. “He’s on-call to show up when I die — to take my brain and anything else that will be useful for research.” She hopes that her decision will inspire others to take proactive steps to become organ donors. “It’s important to help other people,” she says. Leasha has a rare form of MS, one that has progressed rapidly. She was working as a dispatcher for the Delta County Sheriff when she first noticed a loss of balance and a slurring of her speech. Within months, she could no longer move without a walker. Then she lost the use of her lower limbs and had to use a wheelchair. Then she lost mobility in her upper body and had to be hoisted in and out of bed. Then everything stopped working from the neck down and the doctors began insert-

ing tubes. “Good luck finding a spot,” she told the last physician who insisted it was time for one more tube. “Never challenge a surgeon,” he smiled. “I got the tube,” she laughs. It’s quiet in Leasha’s room. She has a big screen television on one wall, though someone else has to operate the remote. Another wall holds a large colorful painting of the red rocks of Sedona, Ariz. The painting is a gift from her art dealer father and a fond reminder of the state where she grew up. Looking at it reminds her of something she definitely wants to happen at her funeral. “Nobody’s wearing black!” she insists, “I want people to dress in bright colors.” She also has the music picked out for her service. “I want that song by the Christian group Casting Crowns. “What is it?” She glances toward Mark, her husband of 22 years. “Do you remember the one I mean?” He promises he’ll help her remember. Mark looks tired. He’s been working the night shift at the Delta County assessor’s office. He spends as much time as he can at home. “We used to get out now and then,” Leasha recalls, “But our special van got totaled. Hit by an uninsured driver. And just after I made the final payment wouldn’t you know it? So now I’m just here.” Suddenly Leasha interrupts our interview to address a question to Pastor Joe Agne who is sitting next to me. Agne is the pastor at Cedaredge Community United Methodist Church. He’s her pastor, a regular visitor, and her spiritual advisor. “Has God spoken to you in dreams?” she asks. Pastor Joe says he has had that experience. “I had a dream. I dreamed able-bodied. I wanted to surprise Mark by getting up and walking out into the other room. It was so real but I got woken up.” Pastor Joe asks Leasha if she’s getting tired. “A little but I’m okay,” she smiles. LEASHA LINDLEY TO C2

C2 Wednesday, March 14, 2018

SURFACE CREEK NEWS

Delta County Independent

Leasha Lindley FROM PAGE C1 Leasha has more to say. She wants me to know that she has a lot of people helping her. Touch of Care and HopeWest Hospice come regularly. Before her illness Leasha was always the one helping others. “It was hard to accept other people wanting to

help but now I understand their compassion and it’s easier to accept help. My resistance is not totally gone, but it’s easier now.” Leasha has also reached out to reconcile with her family, especially her mother, and both of them have achieved peace through these efforts. Last

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year her mother came to Leasha’s home and made Thanksgiving dinner so her daughter could enjoy the cooking aroma. And then her four sons surprised Leasha by coming for Christmas. “Family,” she smiles. All of her sons graduated from Cedaredge High School and one of her fondest memories was seeing her youngest son, Chris, graduate last year. Her boys live in Colorado although one is on active duty with the U.S. Air Force and will soon be heading to Japan. “That’s about all I can remember to say. My short term memory is fading but my long term memory is still good. I can still remember singing hymns when I was four years old while my grandmother played piano. I’d like some hymns at my funeral.” She and Pastor Joe agree that the hymn “I Come to the Garden Alone” definitely has to be included in the service. “I don’t like dying,” she says, “Mark and I had so many plans. But I’m at peace with it. I’m not afraid to die and when I’m gone I want a celebration.”

Irish stew luncheon scheduled The annual Irish stew luncheon is Friday, March 16, 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. at the Cedaredge Masonic Hall. The cost is $7 per person; takeout is available. The menu includes stew, salad, roll, dessert and drink. This event is sponsored by the Zeta Omicron Chapter of ESA Sorority. Proceeds benefit vocational scholarships for graduating seniors and local nonprofit organizations.

Reception honors 20 years of ministry in Cedaredge The Abbott children and members of Cedaredge First Baptist Church would like to invite you to a 20-year anniversary celebration in honor of Pastor Dik and Christy Abbott’s ministry in the Cedaredge community. A come-and-go reception is being held in Wick Hall at the Cedaredge First Baptist Church on Sunday, March 18, from 3-5 p.m.

Saddle club annual meeting ��

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The Surface Creek Saddle Club will have its annual meeting at the Bank of Colorado in Cedaredge on Tuesday, March 27, at 7 p.m. The agenda includes the election of the 2018 board of directors. All members are encouraged to attend.

Photo by Sandy Wilt

Putting fun into fund raising

The Scones had everyone up and dancing during a chili dinner and dance hosted by the Grand Mesa Arts and Events Center on Saturday, March 10. About 180 turned out for first annual Cabin Fever Dance Party. “It was good to see Cedaredge out dancing,” said David Starr, vice president and board member of the Art Center. Along with the chili dinner and dance, the Grand Mesa Arts and Events Center kicked off an online auction with bidding open until March 31. Items include a hot air balloon ride, a fly fishing trip on the Gunnison with Black Canyon Anglers, karate lessons, a family portrait package for Reve, personal training and pilates classes by Gena Rose, a guided tour of the Indian writing of the Shavano Valley, a Ross fly fishing reel, a car care package and more. To browse items or submit a bid visit https://www.charityauction.bid/grandmesaartscenter.

Scramblers will reopen as the Lost Mesa Grill BY DON BENJAMIN Staff Writer

After 23 years in Cedaredge, the owners of Scramblers Restaurant are moving on. Feb. 23 marked the end of an era for Toni and Van Morris who have owned and operated the restaurant since 1995. The couple purchased the business when it was known as the Apple Orchard Restaurant and changed the name to Scramblers four years ago when they decided to concentrate on breakfast. The business has long been a gathering place in downtown Cedaredge especially for families and community groups. Local ham radio enthusiasts have been meeting there for over ten years and church groups, a garden club, and a ladies’ bridge group are regular customers. What will the couple miss most about closing Scramblers? “We enjoyed keeping up with the families of our customers. We have watched little kids grow up over the years and then seen those same kids come in with their own children.” Toni and Van, who live in Delta, will remain in the area and will pursue other interests including devoting more time to their two children and seven grandkids. As they embark on a new chapter in their lives, Toni and Van want to thank their loyal customers for years of support and patronage. They are also grateful to their excellent employees including their current waitress, Nina Hall, who will remain on the job. And they wish every success to the new owners, Travis and Annie Holton. The business will close for approximately two months while the new owners complete

renovations. Then the in late April as the Lost restaurant will reopen Mesa Grill.

Photo by Don Benjamin

The crew at Scramblers Restaurant gathered for a farewell photo. Waitress Nina Hall (far left) will remain with the restaurant. Departing owners Toni and Van Morris are moving on after two decades in downtown Cedaredge. Scramblers will close brieﬂy for renovation then reopen under new owners as the Lost Mesa Grill.

Veterans invited to meet-and-greet The Welcome Home Alliance for Veterans will host its second Delta County coffee event in downtown Cedaredge on Tuesday, March 20. The meet-and-greet event will take place in The Pondy at 220 West Main Street. Free coffee and treats will be provided and veterans are welcome to stop by at any time from 10 a.m. to noon to socialize and gain information. Veterans’ services offi-

cers will be on hand to answer questions and make referrals. Veterans are asked to bring with them a copy of their DD214 discharge document or other military identification so they can be added to the alliance’s service base. The alliance will continue to welcome veterans in the same location and at the same time on the third Tuesday of every month. For questions, contact the alliance at 970-765-2210.

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Photo by Don Benjamin

New VFW members

Warren Mitch Brown (left) and Hans Echeverria are the newest members of Grand Mesa Veterans of Foreign Wars Post #9221. The two U.S. Navy veterans served together and now they have settled in Cedaredge to open a business as dog trainers specializing in law enforcement K-9’s. By tradition each new member is presented with a warrior quilt created by the Surface Creek Quilters of Cedaredge. The Cedaredge VFW post is over 100 percent in membership, meaning they are consistently gaining new members as older members pass away.

BRUIN TRACKS

Delta County Independent

Wednesday, March 14, 2018

BRUIN TRACKS 970-856-6882

C EDAREDGE HIGH SCHOOL

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��575 Southeast Deer Creek Drive

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Wrestlers Make History! Natalie Barnard Staff Writer

Victory! Cedaredge High School is very proud to announce that two students �� Colorado State Wrestling Championship. Sean Dale brought home the gold in the 126 weight division along with Trey Geyer in the 120 weight division. “The season went great, and I am very proud of my team and how hard they worked to get here,” says Coach Garrison. Trey Geyer, a freshman says “I feel good being the �� required hard work and dedication. The best part is getting a chance to place in something you love and

have always done.” “The state knows who we are and we have a very talented bunch of young men who have put in the work that it takes to see championship results” says Garrison. Sean Dale, a sophomore says “It feels great to have such a reward in something you have worked so hard for and there is a great feeling of satisfaction when you win knowing you gave your all.” Some advice both Sean and Trey would give to future wrestlers of the Bruins is “Work hard all the time and stick to it because the championship in the end is all worth it.”

What’s Bruin Inside School Dance will take place March 17th

�� from Trey Geyer’s win in the 2A, 120 pound division. Trey was named to First Team All State in the 2A division.

��Sean Dale in the 2A, 126 pound division. Sean was also named to First Team All State in the 2A division.

Underclassmen participate in SAT prep Mrs. Cerise arranges college campus visits for Sophomores and Juniors Wrestling places fourth at state as a team, First state champions in 32 years Girls’ Basketball wins the region, Played in Denver for state tournament Spring sports starts practices and prepares for the season Coach Hilbig wins his 100th game as a CHS girls’ basketball coach

�� year. Along with the state champions, Taj Van Der Linde ��Adrian Nieto placed fourth, and Toby Waddell placed sixth.

Basketball Girls Win the Region Securing Them a Spot in the Elite Eight

Another “W” is in the books! The Cedaredge Girls’ Basketball team continues through post season. The girls placed third at districts and earned the honor of hosting regional games. At districts, the girls played Grand Valley �� amount. The next day, the �� they defeated Delta for the fourth time this season. Although the girls did ��trict, they had a high RPI ranking them sixth before regional play. Their high RPI allowed them to host regional games. CHS welcomed Liberty Common, Jefferson Academy, and the Vanguard School to come play in regional games. ��als, the Lady Bruins beat Liberty Common 35 to 24. The next day, the girls played an intense game beating Jefferson Academy �� Senior Grace Andrews discusses the emotions during the last quarter of the Jefferson Academy game. “I was getting nervous towards the end, but I knew we could all do it. We were

Hannah Gardner Co-Editor

running out of time, and my team works well under pressure. We all stepped up and played defense giving us one last win on our home court.” The Lady Bruins battled the game out and gave Varsity Coach Hilbig his 100th win as a Cedaredge Bruin. Coach Hilbig talks about the Regional win. “It meant a lot to have that last win at home. Having the game that sent us to state be a regional title and be on our own court brought back �� my years coaching here. The teams we’ve built and all the hard work that went into each season are the reason why I love this program so much. The wins over the year brought back many memories.” The CHS girls basketball team earned their way to play in the state tournament �� of the state tournament, the Bruins faced St. Mary’s and lost 64 to 33. �� 21-4 record and will al�� moments of the season as they set a precedent for future teams.

Cedaredge FFA celebrates Ag Week with school activities, member auction, and a dodgeball tournament CHS theatre preps for the upcoming play Science Olympiad competes in Fort Collins Boys’ Basketball season ends during regionals in Alamosa Baseball season starts, and the boys prepare for games

Coach Hilbig raises the freshly cut net triumphantly after the regional win on Saturday. The Lady Bruins gave Coach his 100th �� coaching at CHS.

Track competes in Delta this Saturday, March 17th

The Lady Bruins participating in the regional game consisted of Sophie Andrews, Kimmy Milholland, Aspen Furubotten, Camie Baldozier, Hannah Gardner, Kammie Henderson, Dalia Alejandre, Makayla Kehmeier, Grace Andrews, Addie Schwarz, Jade McGovern, and Courtney Freeman.

Makayla Kehmeier trims the net following the regional victory.

Jade McGovern charges down the court in the Bruin’s victory over Jefferson Academy.

Happy Saint Patrick’s Day!

C4 Wednesday, March 14, 2018

BRUIN TRACKS

Delta County Independent

Cedaredge

Bruins

Science Olympiad Rocks the Science World Several students participate in Science Olympiad. Josh Deal, Zach Stivers, Max Moore, and Jacen Brown represented Cedaredge High School in the high school division this winter. They practiced a couple of times a �� sil Ridge High School in Fort Collins to compete against other schools in �� Individuals chose to participate in Astronomy where they answered �� Design where they conduct an experi�� competition, Mousetrap Vehicle where

Grace Hatheway Staff Writer

students construct a car to race, Fermi Questions which tests dimensional analysis, Optics, Rocks and Minerals, �� tal Design, Astronomy, and Thermodynamics placing 16th, 18th, and 19th respectively out of 26. He stated, “I did Science Olympiad to improve my skills in science and have fun with my friends.” Josh has competed in this extracurricular activity for 5 years now. Anyone interested in participating �� later this fall.

How You Can Save a Life Azalee Hoffbauer Staff Writer

�� a organ donor? �� hosting monthly educational groups at Cedaredge High School to answer this question. ��son can save eight lives after he or she passes away. Most people don’t know or understand this fact, and that is why I �� Payton Donahue, a frequent participant of the group, says she learned “what �� when it comes to organ donation. With the help of the Chris Klug Foundation, an organization whose goal is to educate everyone on the importance of organ donation, I have provided students who come to my meetings �� donation. �� donors on their own. Natalie Barnard, ��

Azalee Hoffbauer talks to community �� they can eight lives through organ donation awareness presentation �� game.

Bruin Pride

�� those organs and why not give them to �� then I think someone should.” This is �� donation. It is a very easy act and can help so many people live to see another day. �� 3 of the 6,775 people who die daily in �� that many people with such a easy act is amazing. Many religions and other groups support organ donation as an act of charity �� Organ donation is a very easy way to �� ing online or at the local DMV. It will �� paramedics to see if you are ever in a fatal accident. You can then donate. Become an Organ Donor today!

Bradley Callenius leads the students section in the “I Believe” chant.

“I...

Jasmine Cruthers Staff Writer

Buzz! “Cedaredge Team A!” The team is ready. The Cedaredge High School Know�� regional competitions. �� answer right, it’s fun, and my friends do it,” �� the Cedaredge Knowledge Bowl program. Knowledge Bowl consists of a written �� rounds against two opposing teams. The higher a team places, the higher they move in rank. Following rigorous after school practices, the Cedaredge team is always prepared for competition. Knowledge Bowl participated in the re�� the year. They attended four competitions �� each time. The rounds are always intense and high energy. “The most fun part is the competition �� Cedaredge A Team usually places in the top ten out of more than twenty teams participating.

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Senior Elizabeth Wood plays the role of mascot for various events at CHS. Her enthu�� the team.

Garth Knutson swims for Montrose High School. He has competed on this team and ��ite memory is of a week-long trip to Phoenix where the team rented a house and spent time �� athlete as a year-round swimmer, he hopes to �� college”. More than anything, Garth aims to ��

BRUIN TRACKS

Delta County Independent

Cedaredge

Wednesday, March 14, 2018

Bruins Sterling Durfee receives a piece of cake from server Hailey Chatterton.

Luiza Goes serves baked beans to Fabian Barron at lunch for the high school’s ag meal.

FFA Students Bring Ag to the Community Hunter Campbell Staff Writer

Nicole Miller �� doughnut from the doughnuton-a-string eating contest.

Hey, Y’all! On the 26th of March, Cedaredge FFA kicked off their annual FFA week. Throughout the week, FFA members hosted many fun events and served yummy food. On Monday February 26, Cedaredge High School students and staff enjoyed hamburgers, pork and beans and cake served for lunch. On Tuesday, FFA members visited the elementary school and hosted exciting activities for the kids such as, making butter, collecting honey, creating masks and other activities. The event is just as fun for the members who get to spend the day interacting with and educat�� states, “Ag in the classroom is a great experience, and I love spending time with the little kids.” Members held their Member Auction and Rocky Mountain Oyster Fry Wednesday evening. Two weeks prior to the event, members worked diligently, fundraising and selling tickets for the Oyster Fry to the community. During the dinner, they served over four hundred people. After everyone was fed, FFA members dressed up, performed skits on stage, and were auctioned off to the community to work community service hours. FFA also served food to the middle schoolers and ended �� struggled to eat doughnuts off of strings, and competed ��

Isaac Martinez-Hieb searches for a penny in a pile hay to begin the ag week games.

Violet Gonzales pushes Kaitlyn Toothaker around in a wheelbarrow for their member auction skit.

Aspen Furubotten serves community members at the oyster fry and member auction.

For their skit, David Lopez, Hayden Blanks, and Toby Waddell dressed in tank-tops and jean shorts.

Benny Miller fries Rocky Mountain Oysters.

Jake Kummerlin, Kaleb Berardi, and Austin Roeling perform for the audience.

Top Row: Christoferr Myers, Levi Smothers, Peyton Williams, Austin Roeling, Dalia Alejandre, Nicole Miller, Megan Branson, Hunter Campbell, Jake Kummerlin, and Peter Sandels Middle Row: Charles Turner, Dallyn Roeling, Luiza Goes, Jackie Rivera, Cameron Quick, Katie Hyke, Ricardo Lopez, Mackaylie Reed, Skyler Sakala, and Nevaeh Wilkerson Bottem Row: LillyDay Buscher, Benny Miller, Ella Deane, Shyler Walker, Brooklin Hogan, Salem Shenold, Chris Alejandre, Clarity Call, Shelby Stone, Christa Brown, and Christian Capuano

C6 Wednesday, March 14, 2018

BRUIN TRACKS

Cedaredge

Delta County Independent

Bruins

With Every Bush Stroke, CHS Students Venture Into a World of Creativity Angel Lozano expresses his interests through artwork.

Jordan Taylor Staff Writer

Hang out with Mr. Montoya! The art students at CHS are some of the most creative students in the school. Under the direction of Mr. Montoya, students learn the skills that he has compiled since the beginning of his art career in middle school. High school isn’t too late to start either. “I enjoy being in art because its a less stressful part of my day,” says Conner Brooks. Every person has their favorite type of art whether it be drawing, painting, or another variety of the abundant mediums. Riana Fuller says, “Art is important because it brings out the creativity in people.” The students are learning so much in the classroom environment with their peers. They give and receive help from each other, all working to become better each day. Mr. Montoya says that his favorite part of teaching art is “seeing the end product and how much the student had improved from their last project.”

Julia Jackson paints with a splatter technique to achieve her starry night.

Bradley Callenius appreciates the opportunity to explore all mediums of expression through art.

Hunter Campbell displays an example of tremendous artwork.

Students artwork is displayed in the hallway window where every visitor of CHS can come to admire the young artists’ work.

The Cedaredge High School Theatre Program Presents:

Noah Smith Produced by special arrangement with Playscripts, Inc. Directed by: Mr. Parsons (Young Audience not advised)

Dr. Jekyll is a brilliant scientist frustrated by dull “respectable” life in 1888 Victorian London. He creates a formula to unleash his inner brutish but oddly compassionate Edward Hyde. Hyde lives the high life while Jekyll’s normalcy continues — until Hyde’s passions begin to turn up a body count.

BRUIN TRACKS Editor-in-Chief Hannah Hatheway

Co-Editors Grace Hatheway

Hannah Gardner

Advertising Editor Hunter Campbell

Writing Staff Natalie Barnard Jessica Craig Jasmine Cruthers 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.

Location : Cedaredge High School Theatre Date : April 6th & 7th Time : 7:00 pm Prices: Adults - $6 Students/Seniors - $5

SURFACE CREEK NEWS

Delta County Independent

Wednesday, March 14, 2018

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

Today let’s talk about trees. Not just any trees, but the smaller deciduous ones that have flowers and maybe even some colorful fruit and leaves that have interesting fall color. I like to refer to these trees as specimen trees as they add accents to the landscape and can often provide a view block. These trees generally get no taller than 20 feet with a spread of 15 to 20 feet. They can often fit beneath power lines and not crowd walks, driveways, and patios. They also do not visually overpower homes. There are many choices but here are some of my favorites. • Crabapples: There are many desirable varieties of these trees, with flowers ranging from white to pink to red; announcing the coming of spring. Fall foliage may be yellow, gold, red,

maroon, purple, orange or bronze; depending on the variety. The apples that follow flowering can be persistent into the winter, adding additional color to the landscape. Try to pick varieties with smallish apples, about quarter size, to reduce codling moth problems and messes. These trees are grafted and will sucker at their trunk base, requiring their removal one or more times a year. Fire blight could be a problem too. Two of my favorites are Prairefire and Spring Snow. • Hawthorns: These trees are quite popular in the landscape, often seen in parking lot medians and other areas around commercial buildings. Spring flowers range from white to pink to red. These trees also produce fruit which is generally smaller than most crabapples and come in some shade of red. Fall leaf color ranges from yellow to orange to scarlet to purplish. Russian and

Lions will host Easter egg hunt Bring a basket or a bag to gather goodies on Sat., March 31 for another fun Easter egg hunt, sponsored by the Surface Creek Valley Lions Club. Ages 4 to 10 years old. Meet in the parking lot at St. Phillips Church, next to the old Hunsicker Elementary School. The

Washington varieties are popular but my favorite in Winter King. Apparently landscape companies like these too. Many varieties of hawthorns do have thorns. • Ornamental pears: There are many varieties spanning different heights and spreads. Chantilcleer is one of my favorites. They generally have white spring flowers, inconspicuous fruit, and orange to red to purple fall leaf color. • Tatarian “Hot Wings” Maple: Wow! Is this tree ever gorgeous. Its scarlet red winged seed, known as samaras, appear every summer for about six weeks, contrasting with the rich green foliage giving it an appearance of being in bloom. Christmas in July! These maples have nice fall colors ranging from yellow to orangered.

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�� Tatarian “Hot Wings” Maple

hunt will start (promptly) at 10 a.m., so arrive a few minutes before. Children will be grouped by age to allow the youngest a fair chance at the goodies. Parents welcome to assist. Kathleen Ray describes For information, call herself as a “flower pot Pat Means, president, at caretaker.” The people 970-640-6614. who hang out on Main Street in Cedaredge know her work, caring for all the beautiful Main Street flowers. On March 18 Ray will be the third Cedaredge Voice in a series of Sunday morning messages presented during 10 a.m. worship at Cedaredge United Methodist Church. Everyone is invited to hear Kathleen share what she feels the Cedaredge community needs from this Cedaredge congregation. The title of her message is “The Aspen Grove.” Ray is intrigued by the aspen tree root system Photos submitted which connects trees all over the forest while being just one tree. She thinks The Senior Hikers enjoy out-of-doors activities communities need this in all kind of weather. This winter they had kind of underground conoutings to the Grand Mesa for cross-country nectedness. Ray affirms skiing and snowshoeing. In February the group the interconnectedness of traveled to Fruita (below) and hiked the Pollock Bench trails. The group hikes every Wednesday and welcomes anyone to join in the fun. For more information on the Senior Hikers, contact Jude Kieca at 856-7331.

Staying active

• Goldenrain Tree: a career with Texas A&M ber of the Cedaredge Tree This is a larger tree, University Extension in Board and a Colorado averaging 30 feet in entomology. He is a mem- Master Gardener. height with a spread of 30 feet. Flowers appear later, in June and July. Flowers are large, showy, stalked clusters of small yellow flowers; the fall�� ing flowers, which can �� form a carpet under the tree, inspired its com�� mon name. The flowers �� yield fruit that looks like �� little three-sided, papery bladder-like Chinese lan�� terns; starting out green, �� then turning pinkish, �� later turning to light yel�� low and then brown in �� color. Fall leaf color ranges from yellow to orange. �� So there you have �� it. Some of the several smallish specimen trees that often provide yearround interest. Minimal �� shade though. Maybe one �� of these will fit the bill for your landscape. �� Jim Leser retired to �� Cedaredge in 2007 after

Cedaredge Voices series continues everything living in the Cedaredge area and the whole world. Ray loves soil. “It takes me back to my childhood on the farm. And soil makes people smile.” She is a fourth generation farm person from Pea Green. She says she is a gardener, not a farmer. Her father is a farmer. According to the congregation’s pastor, Joe Agne, two Cedaredge Voices preceded Kathleen. They were Phil Ellsworth and Mitchell Gronenthal. The series will complete with David Starr of Starr’s Guitars and the Grand Mesa Arts and Events Center, on April 15, and Kami Collins, executive director of the Cedaredge Area Chamber of Commerce, on May 20. According to Agne, “It is eye-opening to hear from the community what it needs. This helps our congregation decide how to serve.”

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Applications Open

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APPLY NOW: ��

C8 Wednesday, March 14, 2018

AGRICULTURE

Delta County Independent

Wrestling with tricky challenge of sediment Paonia Reservoir is dramatic example of water infrastructure needs

BY HANNAH HOLM Hutchins Water Center at Colorado Mesa University

In the fall of 2017, workers navigated sloppy mudflats in the bottom of the drained Paonia Reservoir in an urgent effort to prevent catastrophe: a damaged bulkhead threatened to break apart and damage

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the Paonia Dam’s outlet works, which would have made it impossible to control releases from the reservoir. This would have made the reservoir useless for delivering irrigation water and for flood control. A temporary fix for the bulkhead problem was completed within budget and ahead of schedule, but reservoir managers still face longer-term challenges with managing sediment and keeping the reservoir functioning to sustain North Fork Valley agriculture over the long term. Related challenges are shared by many other water managers in western Colorado as they try to maintain aging infrastructure and respond to changing social values related to water management. The completion of the Paonia Dam in 1962 enabled the continued growth of agriculture in the North Fork Valley. A beneficial micro-climate makes the valley wellsuited for high-value fruit orchards — as long as there is sufficient water. Prior to the construction of the dam, many crops failed due to demand outstripping the supply of irrigation water in late summer. The dam currently provides water to irrigate approximately 15,300 acres of land. When the dam was constructed, on the aptlynamed Muddy Creek, it had a fifty-year “sediment design life.” The designers expected the reservoir to fill with mud and become inoperable before now. Current constraints on what to do next weren’t anticipated, however. We are no longer in an era where new reservoirs can easily be constructed to replace old ones. Even fixing up old ones is complicated by legal constraints that didn’t exist in 1962, such as the need to ensure that the work does not have significant negative

Photo by Hannah Holm

This photo, taken while repairs were underway to the Paonia Reservoir outlet control system, shows the dramatic sediment problem at the reservoir. It is an example of a broader problem facing managers of western Colorado water infrastructure. impacts on environmental, recreational or cultural resources. The question of what to do next, within current constraints, can’t be avoided much longer. The mud has come close to overwhelming the intake structure that controls releases to the stream below the dam, and has reduced the reservoir’s active storage capacity from 18,150 acre-feet to about 15,000 acre-feet. The total volume of mud is staggering: the creek has been depositing an average of over 100 acre-feet/ year of sediment to the reservoir since its construction in 1962. That’s about one football field buried 100 feet deep accumulating every year — a lot more than a whole convoy of dump trucks could haul off and sell as topsoil. In recent years, the dam has been operated to pass a higher amount of sediment downstream, but the net inflow is still higher than the outflow. Finding a way to turn that around will require

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design changes to the dam outlet works and operations and careful assessment of potential impacts downstream of different release scenarios. While streams below dams have often been described as “sediment starved,” with long-term, negative impacts to channel structure and aquatic habitat, too much sediment at once or at the wrong time can negatively impact the bugs at the bottom of the food chain and ruin fish spawning habitat. These are tricky challenges, which Bureau of Reclamation staff are wrestling with now. And whatever fix is found is unlikely to be cheap. Doing nothing is not really an option, however, either for the agricultural life of the North Fork Valley or, in the long term, for the environmental health of the stream. The same can be said for many of our aging dams, diversion structures and canals across western Colorado. Some of these are decades older than Paonia Dam. Examples include ailing dams on the Grand Mesa, leaking ditches, and inadequate control structures. Numerous projects to address these prob-

lems are included in the basin implementation plans developed by basin roundtables of water managers and stakeholders in 2015 as part of a statewide water planning process. However, funding to implement such projects in the future has come into question as state severance taxes on oil and gas development, which have long provided funding for water projects in Colorado, have diminished substantially. As this year’s dry winter underscores how tenuous our water supplies can be, it is worth the effort to carefully assess all the water infrastructure we rely on and determine how we can maintain it and improve it to optimize the benefits from every inch of snowpack we get. Hannah Holm coordinates the Hutchins Water Center at Colorado Mesa University, which promotes research, education and dialogue to address the water issues facing the Upper Colorado River Basin. Support for Hutchins Water Center articles on water issues is supported by a grant from the Walton Family Foundation. You can learn more about the center at http://www.col oradomesa.edu/watercenter.

Draft EA for Fire Mountain Canal project is released The Bureau of Reclamation has released a draft Finding of No Significant Impact and Environmental Assessment on the Fire Mountain Canal Salinity Reduction Piping Project located in Delta County. The project would replace approximately 3.67 miles of open irrigation ditch with buried pipe. The purpose of the project is to prevent seepage and reduce salinity loading in the Colorado River Basin.

The draft FONSI and EA is available online at www.usbr.gov/uc/env docs/index.html or a copy can be requested by contacting Reclamation. Reclamation will consider all comments received by Friday, April 13. Submit comments by email to lmcwhirter@usbr. gov or to: Ed Warner, Area Manager, Bureau of Reclamation, 445 West Gunnison Ave, Suite 221, Grand Junction, CO 81501.

Training offered for produce growers Produce growers are being impacted by a new federal regulation called the Food Safety Modernization Act, Produce Safety Rule. To be compliant with the rule, growers need to attend a certified training. Rocky Mountain Farmers Union, CSU Extension and Colorado Fruit and Vegetable Growers Association will host a training session in Delta Monday, March 26, at Bill Heddles Recreation Center. The course runs from 7:30 a.m. to 5 p.m. All growers or farm managers are encouraged to attend. Register at https://march_26_psr. eventbrite.com. Fruit and vegetable growers will learn about

the Food Safety Modernization Act (FSMA), what the Produce Safety Rule is and who is affected. Training will also cover relevant microorganisms that impact produce safety and where they may be found on the farm; how to identify microbial risks; practices that reduce risks; how to implement produce safety practices on the farm; updates to the rule and water requirements; and writing/adapting a food safety plan to prepare for FSMA. The course costs $50. Registration fee includes snacks, lunch, a hefty binder of information and a certificate of completion required under FSMA.

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March 14, 2018

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

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OFFICE FOR RENT. CEDaredge, 4 room office, 600 square feet plus bathroom. Great location, right on Hwy. 65 in town. Plenty of parking. $660 per month, includes electric and water. Call 970-856-3032. (4x8)

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�� CSA HAS�� IMMEDIATE OPENINGS FOR EXPERIENCED UNDERGROUND �� MINERS (AT LEAST ONE YEAR) IN THE PRICE, UTAH �� COUNTY, COLORADO LOCATIONS �� VERY COMPETITIVE WAGES, PER DIEM (UTAH ONLY) - BENEFITS �� PACKAGE AVAILABLE. DIRECT HIRE POSSIBILITY WITH SUCCESSFUL

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GUN SHOW AT MONTrose County Fairgrounds, Friday, March 16 4-8 p.m., Saturday, March 17 9 a.m.5 p.m., Sunday, March 18 9 a.m.-2 p.m. Buy, sell, trade, browse. $5 admission/3day pass $10. Sponsored by Montrose Rod & Gun Club. (2x10)

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THE KING'S TABLE SOUP Kitchen needs egg cartons. If you have any to give please call 250-6637 and we will pick up. (2x10)

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LARGE GREENHOUSES, great prices. Made in Colorado, for Colorado. 970-726-9555, altitudegreenhouses.com. (4x9)

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CREEKSIDE 3 BEDROOM 2 bath in Cedaredge, totally remodeled, 2 decks, laundry hookups, double garage, non-smokers only, $1,120/ mo + utilities, First and last month plus $1,200 deposit, 1-Year lease (360) 929-5155. (1x11)

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D2 Wednesday, March 14, 2018 Help Wanted �� ESTABLISHED LANDscape company is seeking help for landscaping and maintenance positions. Experience is helpful but not necessary. Valid drivers license is needed. We are looking for full and parttime positions. Background and driving checks will be done. Pick up application at 20143 Austin Rd., Austin. (2x10) NEW ADDRESS? PLEASE notify the Delta County Independent 10 days prior to moving. PO Box 809, Delta, CO 81416 or 970-8744421.

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5 POSITIONS - TEMPORARY/ seasonal work planting, cultivating and harvesting fruits and vegetables, from 4/14/2018 to 11/2/2018 at UTR Corporation dba Abundant Life Organic Farms, Hotchkiss, CO in Delta County. This job requires a minimum of three months of prior experience working on a fruit or vegetable farm, handling manual tasks associated with commodity production and harvest activities. Saturday work required. Must be able to lift/carry 45 pounds. $10.69/hr or current applicable AEWR. Raise/bonus at employer discretion. Workers are guaranteed 3/4 of work hours of total period. Work tools, supplies, equipment supplied by employer without charge to worker. Housing with kitchen facilities provided at no cost to only those workers who are not reasonably able to return same day to their place of residence at time of recruitment. Transportation and subsistence expenses to work site will be paid to nonresident workers not later than upon completion of 50% of the job contract. Interviews required. Apply for this job at nearest State Workforce Agency in state in which this ad appears, or Delta Workforce Center, 206 Ute Street , Delta, CO 81416. Provide copy of this ad. CO Job Order #7276387. (1x11)

THE TOWN OF CEDARedge is accepting applications for Town Clerk and Economic Development Coordinator. This position is responsible for managing and maintaining all town records, minutes of Board of Trustees and other committee meetings, and responsible for the town seal. This position also represents the Town of Cedaredge’s economic interests in local and regional organizations. The ideal candidate will have municipal experience and be an energetic self-starter. A detailed job description is available at Town Hall. The position is full time with a defined benefit plan. Hiring range is $15-20 hourly. Interested persons may submit a resume and cover letter or a Town of Cedaredge Employment Application to Town Hall on or before 4:00 p.m. March 19, 2018. Applications may be obtained at Town Hall, 235 W. Main, (P.O. Box 398 for mailing), Cedaredge, CO 81413, www.cedaredge colorado.com or by calling (970) 856-3123. The Town of Cedaredge is an EOE/ADA employer. (3x9)

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Public Service HOW DO I SELL MY Cottage Food products? You may sell your products directly to the consumer from your residence, roadside stand, Farmers’ market, community supported agricultural organizations, or other similar venue. If you have any questions, please call: 874-2165. Delta County Health Department. (4X11) THE DELTA COUNTY Independent runs these items as a public service free of charge for non-profit organizations, if no fees are charged. However, each group is asked to please keep them current by calling 874-4421.

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CARING FOR CAREgivers, C4C - supporting hearts that care. Open to ANY caregiver. Meets monthly in Delta, 2nd Tuesday at 11 a.m. - 511 E. 10th St, Delta. THE ABRAHAM CONNECtion homeless shelter, located at 480 Silver St., Delta, offers emergency overnight shelter and food to men, women and families in the Delta area midOctober- April. Call us at 970-773-8290 to make a referral, or for information on how to volunteer or donate. www.Delta AbrahamConnection. org.

AL-ANON: HOPE AND help for families and friends of alcoholics meets in Cedaredge: Al-Anon, Thursdays, 8 pm, Wick Hall behind First Baptist Church, 370 W. Main St., contact Mary M. 970-856-6123 or Jim 970-874-7855.

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.

HOTCHKISS-CRAWFORD Historical Museum. Winter hours, Saturdays 1-4 p.m. $3 admission or free to members. Come see our museum at 2nd & Hotchkiss PAONIA AMERICAN Streets in Hotchkiss. 872- Legion runs a year round 3780. non-perishable emergency food pantry. This is for the CHECK OUT THE BOOK North Fork area. For inforstore at the Delta Library. mation, call 527-6252. You'll find a great selection of paperbacks at reasonable SAVE EYEGLASSES, OLD prices. jewelry and silver or bits of gold and silver scraps. The IF YOU LOVE BOOKS, Grand Odd Fellow Lodge is you will love the Downstairs sending them to: New Eyes Bookstore in the basement for the Needy, 549 Millburn of the Delta Library. Ave., Short Hills, NJ 07078 NARCOTICS ANONY- or send them to: Gale mous meets at 9th and Conger, Secretary of IOOF Palmer, Delta, Mondays and Lodge #116, 5516 Hwy. 348, Delta, CO 81416. Fridays at 8 p.m.

HOSPITAL VOLUNTEERS Wanted! Delta County Memorial Hospital needs hospital volunteers. Days and hours are flexible. There are currently openings in the ER, Oncology, Gift DOMESTIC VIOLENCE Shop and some additional Support Group for Adults areas. If you are interested, and Children: Every please contact Volunteer Wednesday in Delta from Coordinator, Barbara Hall at 5-7 p.m. there will be a free 250-2105 for an application. HELP!!! KEEP THE support group for adults animal population under whose lives have been FREE DIAPERS FOR UP control, and SAVE an aniimpacted by domestic vio- to one year! Pregnant mal's life. Adopt your new lence and a separate group women in Delta County can cat or dog from the Delta for children at the same now get help to quit smok- County Humane Society. time. Please call 970-874- ing and get something they Adoption fee is minimal. 4941 to sign up. can really use after their Call 874-2149. baby arrives — free diapers. WANNA PLAY A ROUND? Healthy moms have healthy THERE IS A VFW MEETING Golf with a fun group of babies. Enroll in the Baby & on the first Monday of each ladies. Two membership Me Tobacco Free program month. At 6 p.m. there is a options available. Sign up today. Contact the Delta potluck and the meeting is at www.cedaredgeladies County Health Department at 7 p.m. at the First Baptist golf.com. Get to know us at 874-2165 or your local Church, 1250 Pioneer Rd., on Facebook at “cedar physician. Delta. For further inforedgeladiesgolfclub” mation, call 874-8172 Jim SUPPORT THE DELTA ALCOHOLICS ANONY- Library. Give a gently used Baker, Quartermaster. mous meets Thursdays at 7 book in the Downstairs HILLTOP COMMUNITY p.m. Friends of Bill W. Club. Book Store. Resources offers free ser897 Palmer Street, Delta. vices and support to vicWELCOME RETURNING tims of Domestic Violence CO FATHER’S NETWORK- Veterans, Post 9221 VFW dedicated to providing meets at 5:00 p.m. on the and Sexual Assault. There community and education 4th Thursday of each month are also ongoing support to fathers of special needs in Cedaredge. To find out groups. Please call our office kids. Meets twice monthly how to participate in pro- at 970-773-2251 for more on the 1st Saturday at 11 moting patriotism and information or if you are in a.m. and the 3rd Monday assisting veterans, contact crisis please call our 24 hour at 6:30 p.m. - 511 E. 10th St, Wayne Hamrick, (970) 250- crisis line at 1-844-990-5500. Delta. See our website for 1180. AL-ANON: HOPE AND more details: www.codads. help for families and org AARP DRIVER SAFETY friends of alcoholics meets Course. Save on insurance, Al-Anon, AL-ANON AND ALATEEN: keep up on newer traffic in Hotchkiss: Hope and help for families laws, learn defensive driv- Mondays at 6:30 pm, and friends of alcoholics ing techniques. For details Methodist Church 285 N. meets in Delta: Al-Anon and and schedule contact John 2nd, contact Elsie 970-210Alateen, Tuesdays at 7:30 Loring (970) 856-6924 or 8090 or Marjorie 970-4331856. pm, St. Luke’s Episcopal (970) 424-1778. Church, 145 W. 5th St., conCHAPTER, UNITS OF DAV tact Elizabeth 970-874-9832 HEALTHY BABIES START regular meetings on the with early prenatal care. second Monday of each or Shirley 970-323-5067. Delta County Health WOMEN ONLY AA MEET- Department. Offers access month at 7 p.m. at the ings, Delta, Saturdays, 11:00 to immediate, temporary Veterans Building, 15th & a.m., at St. Luke's Episcopal Medicaid for pregnant Howard, Delta. For further Church, 5th & Palmer (back women who qualify. 874- information, call Paul Carter 874-5150. door). 2165. THE KINGS TABLE SOUP Kitchen needs egg cartons. If you have any to give please call 250-6637 and we will pick up.

Public Service

AL-ANON: HOPE AND help for families and friends of alcoholics meets in Paonia: Al-Anon, Wednesdays at 7 pm, United Methodist Church, 3rd & Onarga, contact Lisa 970-395-3608, Chris 970527-3366 or Marjorie 970433-1856 THE AMERICAN RED Cross needs you. Become one of the Red Cross volunteers who says, “We’ll Be There, Because Help Can’t Wait!” Call your local Red Cross Chapter at 970-2424851 or 1-800-HELP NOW for information on the difference you can make in someone’s life as a disaster volunteer. DELTA HAS A BOOKstore in the basement of the library featuring gently used books and magazines. Come check it out! BOOKS MAKE GREAT stocking stuffers. Find books at great prices in the basement of the Delta Public Library. THINK YOU'RE PREGnant? Abused? Need help? The Pregnancy Resource Center in Delta offers free service, support and advice to all teenagers and women in crisis pregnancy situations. For Christian help, anytime, call 874-5733. SUPPORT THE DELTA Public Library. Give a gently used book in the Downstairs Book Store.

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Delta County Independent

Review: Broadway and beyond BY CHARLIE HUFF Delta-Montrose Community Concert Association

Throughout the current Delta-Montrose Community Concert Association’s concert season we have had the pleasure of experiencing the absolutely amazing talents and superb performances of a number of world-class entertainers for us and our families and neighbors. Saturday night’s concert by J. Mark McVey and his amazing piano accompanist, Jon Werking, was no exception. Their performance the evening of March 10 was one which, if rated from one to 10, 10 being a superior rating, would have been at least an 11!

To really appreciate the beauty and intensity of the singing of Mark and the keyboard mastery of Jon as they combined their talents so superbly for us, you really had to have been there to see and feel it for yourself. It was literally spellbinding and soul-lifting. Mark made no secret that his extensive career was the result of a God-given gift that had been his “impossible dream” since childhood. And the audience had no doubts about it. These two masters of song and piano combined to make a uniquely qualified team as they presented some of the ever-great Broadway musical themes and songs of the classics of all time

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from the New York Broadway scene and era of the mid to late periods of the last century. Mr. McVey was surely a “veteran” of the New York and national touring troupe of the “Les Miserables” hit musical as the key character, Jean Valjean, in over 3,200 performances over a 10year period. He then went on to continue his career with other additional performances on the stage, in big-name concert halls, TV shows, recording studios and tours throughout the world, all within the past 30 years. The intensity, range, and endurance of his voice really gives meaning to the word awesome! With such

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Folin family of Allied Concerts, Inc. who seek out such talent for us at your DMCCA who bring them here for us. So, don’t be left out! Our last performance for this 2017-18 season will be on Tuesday, April 24, and will surely be another great hit with the Guthrie brothers Jeb and Jock as they present a tribute to the music of Simon and Garfunkel. Please look us up on the web at www.delta montroseconcerts.com for more details. Remember, too, that you may attend this — the season’s last — at no cost when you purchase your season ticket for the 2018-2019 season’s fiveconcert series. And we can

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confidently assure you that this will be another blockbuster season.

Good Friday worship scheduled A community Good Friday worship service is scheduled at the Delta Performing Arts Center on Friday, March 30, at 6 p.m. Also, the Walk of the Cross through Delta will start at 5:15 p.m. from the Delta City Market parking lot on the same day and pass through the Good Friday service.

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a talented and masterful arranger and accompanist on our stately Baldwin concert grand piano as is Jon Werking, the resulting impact of the two was for sure indescribable! Our audience’s delight with the concert was undeniably displayed with two standing ovations, one before and after McVey and Werking”s encore performance of “The Impossible Dream” from the musical “Man of La Mancha.” That we here in our somewhat obscure valley should be so fortunate as to have access to such talented — even renowned — performers is truly a special opportunity that we have all thanks to the

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BY KAYLEE DUNHAM Contributing Writer

s a kid David Vallem didn’t have people in his life who did extreme sports. While he knew that extreme sports existed he had no way of gaining access to the equipment he would need; however, he said that this did not stop him from climbing mountains, even the ones that he should have probably been wearing pall protection on. “I am an adrenaline junkie and so I am constantly looking for adventure that pushes my limits,” David said. David, now a resident of Cedaredge, does a number of different hobbies — mountain biking, snowboarding, rock climbing, canyoneering, SUP and backpacking. He has climbed a number of 14ers and has done snowboard descents on them. Last but not least, he ice climbs. David said that he enjoys “whatever gets me outside and going to new places.” David was a rock climb-

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Delta County Independent

Adrenaline junkie

Photo by Kaylee Dunham

David Vallem describes himself as an adrenaline junkie who’s always looking for adventure. er before he ever picked up an icepick. He has been all around Colorado, Utah, Idaho, and Oregon rock climbing. Finally, by reading climbing magazines David became interested in the ice climbing. “I remember reading an article about a guy named Steve House and how he was ice climbing. The pictures looked intense, so I decided to give it a try.” This soon led to him beginning his adventure into ice climbing in 2001. David said, “I took a onehour introduction course from San Juan Mountain guides and I was completely hooked.” Although you would think that ice climbing and rock climbing would be similar, it takes a different knowledge, strength and courage base to do each. “In rock climbing there tends to be specific holds which you must utilize to make it to the top. With ice there are holds for axes anywhere, with the caveat that

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Summer or winter, Davis is ready for some outdoor adventure.

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David embarks on a mountain biking trek in the Gunnison Gorge National Conservation Area.

each and every hold could break. I think ice climbing tends to get arms and legs pumped faster than rock. Plus, you deal with cold weather, avalanches, ice fall and wet gear,” David explained. Except for that one-hour introduction course, David never had anyone mentoring him. He learned from looking up professional ice climbers like Steve House, Jeff Hollenbaugh, Alex Lowe and many more. In David’s nearly 20 years of ice climbing his most intense moments came when he was climbing on Fish Creek Falls in Steamboat Springs. “I was by myself that day,” David recalled, “and had a rope and self-arrest system set up. It was in the late spring and water was running behind the ice. I was almost to the top and I swung my axe and it connected solidly. But the ice on the side I was climbing all gave way and fell off. So, I was swinging around on the rope with water pouring all over me. I had to climb the rock with my axes and crampons for several moves to get to the top. Luckily Fish Creek Falls is close to the parking lot, so I grabbed all my gear and hustled back to the truck.” Another popular climb for many ice climbers is in Ouray, though it is an easy climb because the ice there is farmed. This means that ice farmers are tasked with keeping the sides of the canyon covered in ice by turning on the sprinkler system at night. David said, “Ouray is kind of a tame place to climb. There are way harder routes out there and far more intense places to climb.” Every year Ouray holds an annual ice climbing festival. Many of its competitors do not practice in Ouray itself but that’s not to say the competition isn’t for the best of the best. Even after all of his years of training David said, “I have never competed there. It is far above my skill level. To compete there, you need to intensely train both in season and off season. I like too many different things to lock down that level of training.” That’s okay with him. Due to all of his other hobbies, competing in the Ouray Ice Climbing Festival isn’t even on David’s bucket list. Ice climbing “seems to feed the need for intensity” and David has become more in love with it over time. Although he started ice climbing because of rock climbing, David said that he has done more ice climbing then rock climbing at this point. There are different levels of intensity in ice climbing and you can always get better. David explained, “For waterfall ice the grades go from WI2-WI6. Two is 60degree ice almost like walking up a very steep hill. Three is between 60 and 70 degrees with some very short vertical. Four is almost vertical. Five is sustained vertical sections up to 20 meters. Six is completely vertical for the entire climb over 30 meters. Then

you get into mixed climbing and the rating goes from m4m12.” Mixed climbs are routes that combine rock climbing and ice climbing. The icepick can grab on to even smaller sections of rock than a hand can. “I have never climbed a 5; the best I have ever done is a 30-meter WI5. I do train but not climbing specific. I do CrossFit because I think it gives a good whole body workout hat helps with all the sports I do,” David said. When asked if he thought he would ever reach a level six climb David replied, “That is probably not going to happen. As I said, I am more of a jack of all trades, master of none.” That doesn’t mean that he is going to stop in the near future; he wants to ice climb as long as he possibly can. David said, “I love the outdoors and the intensity of ice After an introductory course climbing. So far there is not a in ice climbing, David was hooked on the sport. lot that matches that.”

Photo by Kaylee Dunham

David, 42, is seen descending the side of Ouray’s Ice Park. Brooke Loucks, 37, of Cedaredge partners with David on this climb. David has been climbing for 20 years and Brooke has been climbing for ﬁve years. “If you want to do something crazy, you ﬁnd crazy Dave,” Brooke said.