Delta County Independent, April 18, 2018 by Delta County Independent

NORTH FORK TIMES

SURFACE CREEK NEWS

BUILDING FOR THE FUTURE Paonia weighs building fees, changes to building department, B3

SPORTS

EVERY DROP COUNTS

WINDY THROWBACK

Orchard City residents asked to practice water conservation, C1

Just four teams compete in state-qualifying Delta Twilight, B5

DELTA COUNTY

APRIL 18, 2018 VOL. 135, NO. 16

75¢

INDEPENDENT

www.deltacountyindependent.com

Teacher salaries, benefits analyzed BY PAT SUNDERLAND Managing Editor

Photo by Pat Sunderland

Meet ‘n greet

Hospital board candidates introduced themselves and answered questions at a meet ‘n greet held Monday night at Delta County Memorial Hospital. Ballots will be mailed to every registered voter in Delta County this week. Above, candidates Wayne Wolf and Bruce Mixter share their thoughts; in the background, Bob Stechert (in navy sweater) gets acquainted with Dr. Sam Kevan and Gwen Conrad, the hospital’s medical staff coordinator. Not pictured, but present, is Dr. Doug Speedie. The ﬁfth candidate, Tammy Smith, was not able to attend the event. Three new members will be elected to four-year terms on the hospital board. May 8 is Election Day for special districts throughout Delta County, but multiple ﬁre, mosquito and water districts cancelled their elections because the number of candidates did not exceed the number of vacancies.

With the focus on teacher salaries in Colorado and a nine-day, statewide teacher strike in Oklahoma, Delta County Joint School District #50 recently conducted a salary analysis. Results, reported at a school board work session last week, indicate beginning teacher salaries are “light,” but the longer teachers stay in the district, the higher their earning power by comparison. According to an independent analysis of salary and benefits, the salary for a teacher with a bachelor’s degree in Delta County ranks 36th out of 178 school districts. Salaries for first-year teachers come in at 119th out of the 178 school districts in Colorado. The 26-year “earning power” ranking puts Delta County 68th out of 178 based on the salary schedule alone. When combined with family benefits, the power ranking moves to 50th. When compared to neighboring school districts, business manager Jim Ventrello said beginning salaries are at least $1,000 less; however, teachers in Delta County are paid for 177 days, while teachers in Mesa and Montrose are

School district provides computers for all middle, high school students BY PAT SUNDERLAND Managing Editor

Using one-time state funds provided to rural schools, Delta County Joint School District #50 has augmented its supply of Chromebooks. The school district now owns 2,935 Chromebooks, one for every student in grade 6-12. The Chromebooks are being used in classrooms, but beginning next fall, high school students will also be able to take the laptops home. While middle school students will also have an opportunity to check out a Chromebook for school use, it’s not yet been decided if they will be able to take their laptops home. School superintendent Caryn Gibson said the entire district has moved to a Google platform, which is built into the Chromebooks. Students use the Google platform to do homework and to submit assignments. It also facilitates communication among students and staff members within the school district. “I see us moving more toward a blended learning atmosphere, where students can learn at their own pace and access a global classroom,” Gibson said. The Chromebooks will be available for checkout for $35 per academic year. The checkout fee is intended to

INDEX

Accent ........................... A4 Activities ......................A11 Back Page ................... D6 Business .......................A12 Church ............................C6 Classifieds .................. D1-2 Editorial ......................... A2 Health & Fitness ...... A7-9 Legals ......................... D3-4 North Fork Times ........B1-4 Obituaries ................ A9-10 School Zone ............... A5-6 Sports ..........................B5-8 Surface Creek News ...C1-5 TV Listings ..................C3-4

defray the cost of buying new Chromebooks for incoming sixth graders, allowing seniors to leave with a Chromebook when they graduate. Beginning with the 2019-2020 school year, graduating seniors who have paid the checkout fee for at least two years will be allowed to keep their Chromebook. Before checking out a Chromebook at the beginning of the 2018-2019 school year, students and parents will be required to review and agree to the district’s “Student Use of the Internet and Electronic Communications Policy.” The policy stresses the appropriate use of any district-owned computer, network or electronic communication device. Students are expected to adhere to the following policies: • Students must bring their Chromebooks to school every day and make sure they are fully charged. • Students must treat their devices with care and never leave them in an unsecured location. • Students must keep their device in a protective case or backpack when traveling. • Students may not attempt to install or run any operating system on the Chromebook other than the ChromeOS operating system

supported by the district. Teachers and administrators have the right to collect and inspect Chromebooks at any time. Personalized instruction is being offered in conjunction with Western State Colorado University, to help teachers get up to speed on Google and blended learning options. Anthony Cooper, the school

district’s technology director, said it’s important staff members have instructional tools, as well as the technology. The professional development courses, to be offered over the summer, are intended to help teachers grow and learn in their profession, while providing educational credits that will help them advance on the salary schedule.

contracted for 184 and 178 days, resectively. To round out the picture, Gibson noted that 77 percent of per-pupil funding is spent in the classroom and 23 percent goes to operations. “This shows the district’s dedication to students and staff of Delta County,” Gibson said. Discussion about salaries for all 50J staff members is taking place as the 2018-19 budget is being formulated. A salary increase of 3.12 percent is proposed for certified staff members (teachers). Overall, certified staff are receiving a 6.8 percent increase over the past two years. The school district has also worked to improve the classified salary schedules. The majority of classified staff received a 4 percent increase last year, with proposed 4 percent increases the next two years. To make beginning teacher salaries more attractive, school board member Jan Tuin suggested a signing bonus. Gibson said the school district does offer moving assistance for teachers in high needs areas, such as math. “We have to; otherwise they won’t look at us,” she said. About 70 percent of the district’s total budget is allocated to salaries and benefits. The school district’s contribution to PERA, the Public Employee Retirees Association, is set by the state legislature at 20.15 percent and will be raised to 21.15 percent on July 1. The employee contribution is also going up, with the goal of reaching 11 percent by Jan. 1, 2020. With increases in PERA contributions, Gibson was reluctant to consider any increase to employee health insurance. Health insurance premiums in the school district went up 1 percent two years ago and have not been TEACHER SALARIES TO A3

County to test emergency alert system April 18 PRESS RELEASE

Delta County’s Office of Emergency Management will be testing the County’s CodeRed Emergency Alert System beginning at 6 p.m. on Wednesday, April 18. CodeRed is the system that allows Delta County Emergency Services to immediately notify citizens within a designated area of current or potential lifethreatening information via recorded message, text message, and/or email. The tests will occur in the Delta area at 6 p.m., the Surface Creek area (including Orchard City and Cedaredge) at 7 p.m., and in the North Fork area (including Hotchkiss, Crawford, and Paonia) at 8 p.m. In order to receive CodeRed

alerts on your cell phone, your cell phone number must be registered with the system. With more and more people using their cellular phones exclusively these days, it is critical to register cell phones in order to receive emergency information in a timely manner. The easiest way to register is to go to the Delta County website (www.deltacounty.com) and select the “CodeRed Sign Up” button, or go directly to www. deltacounty.com/codered. The system is also capable of delivering messages via TTY (text telephone) for the hearing impaired. If the system dials a residence and gets a voice, it gives a spoken message. If it detects a TTY, it delivers a TTY message.

Jeff Wright, Delta County emergency manager, stated that there is a possibility of increased wildfires this year due to the warmer, dryer winter we experienced. Receiving a CodeRed emergency notification could make the difference between life and death if such an emergency occurred near you. He strongly encourages everyone with a cell phone to get registered right away and remain vigilant to the weather and the environment around you, as well as how you will respond to emergency events. For more information or assistance signing up with CodeRed, contact Jeff Wright at 970-874-2004 or Jan Speas, public information officer, at 970-874-2028.

Final chance to weigh in

Scholarships

Votes finalized

Did you miss the open houses on the county’s draft Master Plan? You can still submit your feedback to the planning commission until April 25. Do the priorities identified in the plan reflect the discussions held during the planning process? Do the strategies and next steps move these priorities forward appropriately based on level of community consensus achieved during the planning process? Does the Master Plan move Delta County in the right direction with regards to the community’s vision and goals? Review the plan and submit feedback at https:// www.deltacountyplan.com/get-involved.

The City of Delta has established a youth scholarship fund to help kids stay active. A goal of $10,000 has been set to help offset the cost of programs and keep registration fees low for kids who wish to participate in sports and activities sponsored by the city. For details, stop by Bill Heddles Recreation Center or call 874-0923.

Eight additional ballots were either “cured” or received prior to the April 13 deadline. Elections supervisor Rene Loy Maas says three votes were cast in the Delta municipal election, two in Orchard City and three in Paonia. Delta council candidates Kevin Carlson and Jay Stooksberry each picked up a vote, but the 22-vote spread remains in Carlson’s favor. Neither box was marked in the third ballot received for Delta. The Paonia ballots broke a tie between Barry Pennell and Samira Hart. Pennell is elected to a four-year term; Hart will serve two years. The two additional ballots did not affect the outcome in Orchard City.

A2 Wednesday, April 18, 2018

OPINION

LETTERS Concert series is an incredible value Dear Editor: I’m writing to recognize a remarkable achievement by the Delta-Montrose Community Concert Association (DMCCA) — 70 years of providing outstanding family entertainment to both Delta and Montrose Counties. Since 1948, the Community Concert series has brought to this area all manner of highly talented professional performers with national and international reputations. Performances are now held at the Delta County Performing Arts Center (822 Grand Avenue in Delta). In the early years, the concerts appealed to classical tastes, but more recent seasons have offered a wider variety of selections. Classical pieces remain for those who enjoy them, but the board has attempted to appeal to a broader range of preferences by also booking contemporary music: pop, bluegrass, show tunes, and folk ballads. So over the course of a season there is virtually something for everyone. Some of our most popular concerts have featured western music: Riders in the Sky and Sons of the Pioneers. Others in recent years included the Golden Dragon Acrobats, the Church Basement

Ladies, and the Limeliters, as well as some clever magicians and one-man shows. Every performer blends with his or her presentation, patter which explains, with humor and enlightenment, the background of the program selections, an understanding of the instruments played and anecdotes about his or her career — all in all, providing an entertaining evening. A primary reason for this letter is to reach local residents who seem to be unaware of our concert series as an avenue for high quality LIVE entertainment. Even though the DMCCA has been around 70 years, some consider us “The Best Kept Secret in Delta and Montrose Counties.” With that in mind, I call attention to our last concert of this season: Scarborough Fair (a tribute to Simon & Garfunkel) on April 24. At that concert we will kick off our membership drive for the 2018-19 season — our 70th season. Tickets are available only at the door. The single admission of $20 for adults will be waived at this last concert, for those who purchase a season ticket for our five concerts for next season (from October 2018 to April 2019).

These concerts include: 7th Avenue (mixed vocal quartet); Leon Sings Noel (baritone) in December; The Jersey Tenors (male quartet); Frederic Chiu (piano); and Sons of Serendip (tenor, harp, cello, keyboard). Our website, www.deltamontrose concerts.com, as well as brochures available at the concert describe next season’s concerts in detail. A season ticket is an incredible value: five concerts for $45 (only $9 per concert) compared to $100 if one paid the $20 single admission and attended all five. Families of three or more (all living in the same home) can buy a family season ticket for $95. Importantly, a season ticket entitles you to attend other community concert venues on the Western Slope without further charge. So I urge county residents to attend the Scarborough Fair concert at 7:30 p.m. on April 24 (doors open at 6:30 p.m.) at the Delta Performing Arts Center (822 Grand Avenue in Delta). Join our membership by buying a season ticket and look forward not only to excellent entertainment that evening, but for the five concerts next season. Bob Brown DMCCA Secretary Delta

County Master Plan should protect ag, water Dear Editor: The Delta County Master Plan is a dream, mostly good but not fulfilled yet. However, there are many more ideas to consider. First, our current county commissioners need an attitude adjustment. We no longer live

in a country of 100 years ago of letting people do what they want with their land; no rules. In the near future we will have 50,000 people in the county that now has 30,000 people. The specific development regulations have been watered down. Essentially there is

A breath of fresh air Dear Editor: What a breath of fresh air to see younger people interested in running for positions in our local governments. This is a welcome change that many of us have discussed for a long time and yet little has been done until recently. We just witnessed a young woman enter the race for District 1 county commissioner just days before the county assembly. Facing tremendous odds, she still garnered 52 percent of the vote, putting her at the top of the ballot. She has no

political or family connections and is a vibrant, bright woman with lots of energy and a strong commitment to serve all citizens of Delta County first. Teresa Nelson is a strong supporter of the U.S. Constitution as written, no exceptions. Any of those voters still undecided should take a hard look at Teresa Nelson for commissioner District 1. See “Teresa Nelson for County Commissioner” on Facebook. Go get ‘em girl — you got my vote. Ron Murphy Delta

no land use planning and the unfortunate development of industry in low density agricultural land is a disaster. Open space is what makes Delta County a unique place to live. However, agricultural land can be subdivided down to even 16 acres without much review. We need serious direction on how to preserve our ag land and water for the future. Not looking at oil and gas as part of the plan is unthinkable. It will affect all of our lives well into the future. Most of the government land in Colorado is leased to oil and gas already. Our little piece here is too sacred to frack. We need to tell the county, state and federal government that this is our space, these are the rules, and do business that is compatible with everyone. It can happen with the right leadership. Bill Tembrock Hotchkiss

April 16-22 proclaimed Colorado Journalism Week Colorado Gov. John Hickenlooper proclaimed April 16-22 as Colorado Journalism Week at the Colorado Press Association’s annual convention in Colorado Springs on Friday. With several hundred attending his keynote lunch remarks, Hickenlooper said it was a critical time to honor the work of journalists. “There has never been a greater need than now for what you do,” he told the crowd of mostly journalists. “I worry all

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

the time that President Trump has attacked many of the foundations of the democracy — the judiciary, the FBI, the CIA — but he’s probably been most relentless attacking the press. “Those attacks, while they haven’t broken the fabric of our Constitution, have weakened it,” he added. The governor’s proclamation invoked the words of President James Madison: “A people who mean to be their own governors must arm themselves with the power which knowledge gives” and said “an informed constituency is essential to a healthy democracy.” Jerry Raehal, executive director of the Colorado Press Association, said the proclamation would kick off a year of advocacy. “This is not about one week,” Raehal said. “This is a launching pad for a year of talking about journalism — about what journalists do and why their work matters. It’s about what the fore-

fathers put in the First Amendment. We need to talk about this in our cities and towns.” In partnership with the Colorado Broadcasters Association, and the Open Media Foundation, Colorado Journalism Week celebrates and honors the hard work and ideals of Colorado’s working press. During his lunchtime speech, the governor spoke to the critical nature of journalists’ work. “When people begin to doubt everything they read, there’s a willingness to distrust any news organization,” Hickenlooper said. “That’s when the corporations of great size, the individuals that control huge amounts of wealth begin to have a greater level of control over the decisions made by this country. “We accept this at our own peril,” he added. The Denver-based Colorado Press Association is a nonprofit association dedicated to promoting the newspaper industry in Colorado.

Delta County Independent

AC/DC is committed to the arts in Delta County event will be advertised to bring people from anywhere to come and enjoy, free and open to the public. Those that sell items while there will be asked to donate to AC/DC an amount of their choosing. We also talked about our efforts to let people know what we do and what we are. Our “awareness” is not well-known by the majority of Delta County residents. We know this and that is why we are beginning to do everything possible on our small budget to organize and begin to work on efforts that do promote the arts here in the county. We realize that the town of Paonia is well ahead of the rest of the county in promotion of the arts! We are grateful to all the residents of our county and only wish to help each community to continue getting better and better with promotion of the arts. Dear Editor: AC/DC is a nonprofThe Orchard City it organization and has election results are in — our voice was loud and clear. Orchard City Master Plan 2016 (last paragraph) “Use of Citizen Committees: Orchard Dear Editor: My second and final City could expand citizen involvement to bring term as mayor of Hotchkiss additional energy, ideas is now complete. I have and resources to bear been honored to serve our on specific issues. Citi- community, and I thank zen participation at the you for your support all committee level with the these years. Hotchkiss town is a valuable source is known as the friendof new ideas and guid- liest town which is not ance as well as future just our motto. We have planning commission been successful in following our predecessors members or trustees.” We have three new example in keeping rantrustees. Please support corous politics away from them by attending town the duties and responsiwork sessions and meet- bilities of citizenship and ings first and second municipal office. There is Wednesdays of the month a trust and respect within at 7 p.m. Please sign up the Hotchkiss community for email notices on the even when we disagreed. town website — orchard I have treasured that cityco.org. Now, the real most of all. Thanks to the men and work begins. Mary Ditlove women of the Hotchkiss Austin town staff. There would

Dear Editor: Arts Coalition of Delta County met Monday, April 9, with three visitors and three board members in attendance. Our guests were there to support AC/ DC in starting a Delta County theatrical group and also the art side of our emphasis. We also continued discussion and plans to have a Delta County Art Fair, sponsored by AC/DC. The plan is to have it at Technical College of the Rockies on Hwy. 50, just south of Delta. No artists or others outside of Delta County will be invited or accepted to show and sell at this event, but the

Orchard City voters have spoken

been working for several years on a huge project! We want to bring the arts to a new level of awareness in Delta County. We wish to help all groups, all communities and even individuals who have a passion for art, music, theater or dance. We have a wealth of talented people here in the c ounty. We have an opportunity to use that talent to change the economics, employment, and outlook of Delta County by working together for the good of all. We encourage all residents, no matter their age to help us with this goal. We will embark on several fundraisers in the very near future that will help us fund, build and explore new ways to help our residents, business, and a more joyful way of living a life here in Delta County. Richard Weldon President, Board Board of Directors Arts Coalition of Delta County

Mayor’s farewell message have been no way for me to have fulfilled my responsibilities without the efforts and experience of Dan Miller, Mike Owens, Marlene Searle and Ginger Redden. It is their labors that keep our town safe, well founded with streets, water, and other infrastructure, and maintained in a balanced budget. I compliment them on dedication to their responsibilities and frugalness with taxpayer funds. Best wishes to Mayor Larry Wilkening and the new trustees. I hope you enjoy the service to the Hotchkiss community as much as Lindee, Tom, and I have enjoyed it. Wendell Koontz Hotchkiss

Law enforcement blotter From the Delta Police Department: April 8: Brandon L. Sadler, 36, of Delta was arrested and jailed on unlawful possession of a controlled substance schedule I, unlawful possession of a controlled substance schedule II, possession of drug paraphernalia, and theft. A 17-year-old juvenile male of Cedaredge was issued a summons for careless driving. Officers took a lobby report of a possible weapon offense. Officers responded to the 1300 block of Bluff Street for a report of a theft. April 9: Officers responded to the 700 block of Grand Avenue for a report of a theft. April 10: Officers responded to the 1000 block of Meeker Street for a welfare check. Officers took a lobby report of criminal mischief to a vehicle in the 200 block of Dodge Street. Officers received a phone call regarding a suspicious incident in the 1300 block of Howard Street. Officers responded to 629 Crawford Avenue, Delta’s Best Storage for a report of a suspicious incident. Officers responded to Delta Cemetery in reference to a criminal mischief and theft. Officers responded to G96 Lane and Highway 50 for a vehicle versus deer traffic accident. Officers responded to Pizza Hut for a private property accident. Officers took a lobby report regarding possible child abuse. Officers responded to Taco Bell for a report of counterfeit money. Officers responded to the 100 block of West 1st Street for a traffic accident. Officers responded to the 700 block of Barstow Street for a report of a vehicle theft. April 12: Officers responded to Kwiki Tire for a report of fuel theft and criminal mischief. Officers responded to Bank of the West for a report of possible fraud. Jeremy M. Jones, 42, of Delta was issued a summons for shoplifting at Walmart. Officers responded to the 200 block of Main Street for the report of a traffic accident. Officers responded to 200 block Dodge Street for a welfare check. Adam M. Kenniger, 33, of Delta was issued summons on charges of protection order violation. April 13: Officers responded to 250

Gunnison River Drive for a report of an adult male suicide. Officers provided an agency assist for Montrose County Sheriff’s Office for a dog bite. April 8: Steven A. Winkler, 24, of Delta was issued a summons on charges of registration provisions and failed to present evidence of insurance. Nicholas R. Emery, 21, of Cedaredge was arrested and jailed on a warrant issued by Colorado State Patrol with a $1,000 bond. Troy M. Messano, 51, of Delta was issued a summons for trespassing. Officers responded the 1400 block of East 7th Street for a report of a possible theft. Officers responded to the 600 block of Columbia Street for a report of a dog bite. Randy J. Autry, 44, of Cedaredge was arrested and jailed on charges of harassment. Citations: Six 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 unless proven guilty. From the Delta County Sheriff’s Office (partial list): April 10: The sheriff’s office was alerted to a Facebook post from a 16-year-old Delta resident who said he was “locked and loaded.” He did not make any direct threats but did mention two schools in Delta County and one in Fruita. The report was turned over to the Delta Police Department, since the teen is a Delta resident. In a follow-up report to the sheriff’s office, the police department said the subject was picked up in Fruita April 15 and sent to a treatment facility on the Eastern Slope. Courthouse security assisted a 90-year-old Cedaredge woman who fell just outside the courthouse. She complained of pain in her right shoulder and was transported to Delta County Memorial Hospital. Deputies took a report of a burglary from a residence in the Eckert area. A case of elder abuse is the subject of an ongoing investigation. The most recent complaint involves the theft of a vehicle owned by an elderly Crawford resident. At approximately 5 p.m., an altercation was reported in the Delta County Jail. Leaf Glimpse, 27, of Delta was the sole occupant of a cell in the jail when he allegedly began displaying destructive behavior. He reportedly removed his clothing and tried to throw it over surveillance cameras,

and allegedly spread his feces on the door of the cell. When deputies opened the door to gain control, he allegedly used a mattress as a barrier. Deputies were ultimately able to tase him and remove from the cell. He was returned to the cell with limited amenities. During the altercation, Glimpse allegedly hit a detention officer, resulting in additional charges of second degree assault on a peace officer, a class 4 felony. April 11: Sheriff’s deputies assisted the Cedaredge Police Department with a male reported to be making suicide by cop statements. April 12: Deputies responded to a report of child abuse from a Delta area address. The case remains under investigation. April 13: The theft of a motor vehicle from a residence in Orchard City was reported. The owner of the 1994 Chevy Silverado had left the keys in the pickup. The stolen vehicle was entered into the CCIC/ NCIC database and has not been located at this time. Courthouse security responded to the probation office and arrested Leighanne Pate, 28, of Olathe on an outstanding felony warrant. Three deputies responded to a residence on Cactus Park Road, Cedaredge, for a reported verbal dispute between one female and two males. April 14: Dogs running loose caused multiple complaints from neighbors in the area of 2000 Road, Delta. Geno Romero of Montrose was booked into Delta County Jail as a result of a traffic stop at 1900 Road and F Road. Deputies stopped his vehicle after they observed it weaving and speeding. He is charged with DUI, two counts of child abuse, speeding, careless driving and driving while license revoked. Deputies responded to 29677 Redlands Mesa Road for a one-vehicle, non-injury traffic acident at about 7:40 p.m. Dustin Caldwell, 36, of Lazear was arrested for violating a mandatory no contact protection order and possession of drug paraphernalia. April 15: An Eckert resident was issued a written warning for dog at large after deputies responded to a call about an animal problem in the area of Mountain Village Drive. Deputies investigated a report of shots being fired toward the town of Hotchkiss from a field on Back River Road. At about 8:30 p.m., deputies responded to a medical assist call at mile marker 12, Highway 92.

LOCAL NEWS

Delta County Independent

Wednesday, April 18, 2018

City awards bids for street, drainage projects BY PAT SUNDERLAND Managing Editor

The Delta City Council awarded two bids totaling nearly $600,000 for street projects in the city. The West 1st and North Palmer improvement project was designed in 2017 by Austin Civil Group as a solution to ongoing issues with drainage and subsequent roadway deterioration at the major intersection. At the April 3 city council meeting, Mark Austin of the Austin Civil Group explained that one goal of the project is to create a smoother transition. Currently there’s a “significant drop” on West 1st as it approaches Palmer, which he said is somewhat of a deterrent to truck traffic traveling from Highway 92 to access the alternate

truck route. In addition, the drainage infrastructure will be improved by piping stormwater into an existing open ditch running on the south side of the railroad tracks. Finally, ADA requirements will be addressed at the intersection. Betsy Suerth, public works/utilities director, was pleased to note that seven bids were received for the project. The apparent low bidder was Ridgway Valley Enterprises with a bid of $287,772. The next lowest bidder was Wells Excavating and Farming with a bid of $300,041.40. Local contractors bidding on city projects are given an 8 percent preference, which brought the Wells bid down to $276,038.09, less than the bid from

Ridgway Valley Enterprises. Council unanimously awarded the contract to Wells, assuming an additional cost of $12,269.40 — the difference between Ridgway’s bid and Wells’ actual bid as a result of the local preference application. The contract requires project completion by July 1. Suerth estimates the project will take four to six weeks. Council also considered a bid for high density mineral bond (HDMB) applications on sections of Pioneer and G roads, as well as several subdivision streets. Selection was based on a 2016 road survey that formed the basis for a five-year street improvement plan. The city has adopted a maintenance strategy

Knife pulled on Walmart employee At about 4:30 p.m. April 9, Delta Police Department officers responded to Walmart for a report of a shoplifting. According to a press release issued by the DPD last week, the suspect fled the area on foot after allegedly pulling a knife on a Walmart employee. Joshua Husa, 27, of Virginia Beach, Va., was later arrested at 97 Circle Drive. A Walmart employee advised there was a second individual involved, and a short time later Brian Amador, 24, homeless, was taken into custody at 1410 Valley View Drive. With the assistance of the Delta County Sheriff ’s Office, the suspect’s vehicle was found. After

running the plate, it was discovered the vehicle was stolen out of Colorado Springs. A subsequent search of the vehicle led to multiple other items of evidence. As a result, Husa and Amador were arrested. Both suspects were taken into custody without incident. Husa is charged with aggravated motor vehicle theft, felony menacing, criminal impersonation, criminal possession of a financial device, theft and display of fictitious plates. Amador is charged with aggravated motor vehicle theft. The case is still active, as officers sift through the evidence located at the scene.

that focuses on pavement preservation. Roads showing minimal signs of distress are considered ideal candidates for the HDMB application. HDMB is a unique emulsified proprietary blend of fine aggregates that can help protect the asphalt surface from breakdown by UV exposure and extend the life of a road 10-12 years. The sole bidder was Andale Construction Inc., which applied HDMB in several Delta subdivisions last summer. Although there was just one bidder, Suerth said the bid was very competitive at $271,861.16 or $3.04 per square yard. Council unanimously approved the bid, noting that last summer Andale did a good job of keeping residents informed about the 24-hour street closures required for application. A total of $500,000 was budgeted for street

improvements in 2018, leaving about $228,000 for additional street projects this year. In other business, council members approved a hotel and restaurant liquor license for Confluence Cafe, 440 Main Street. Owner Mona Jen-

sen now serves lunch and dinner. Carl Jahn and John Vigil were appointed to the Delta Planning Commission, and bids were awarded for the purchase of a trench compactor and an irrigation pump for Cottonwood Park.

We’re serving up a great buffet! ��

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Photo submitted

Founder’s Month

At the Altrusa business meeting on April 11, Delta Mayor Ed Sisson reads a proclamation declaring April “Founder’s Month.” Altrusa International is celebrating 101 years in service globally. The local club was chartered in 1985 and has provided thousands of service hours to the community.

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Teacher salaries FROM PAGE A1 increased since, despite recommended increases from the district’s broker, Jim Hermann of Willis Towers Watson. He was at the work session April 13 to update school board members on the district’s self-funded insurance policy. Due to a number of several unusually large claims in the school district, fixed costs, in the form of premiums for umbrella coverage, are going up considerably. “If you went out on your own, you’d be seeing at least a 20 percent increase,” Hermann said. Medical inflation alone averages 6 percent per year. But because the large claims fell under the district’s umbrella coverage, the district was reim-

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bursed and able to grow health insurance reserves to $3.4 million. With those reserves, the school district can weather a rocky year. “I just worry about down the road,” Ventrello said. He and Gibson said it will be hard to increase employee premiums with a growing fund balance. If health insurance is increased by 2 or 3 percent, it would offset any increase in salary. School board members with backgrounds in the private sector, where sizable increases are an annual occurrence, argued that maintaining insurance premiums at the current level is not realistic. “At some point we could end up in the hole,” said school board member Jill Jurca. Gibson said she would come up with several options for salaries and benefits for school board members to consider in the coming weeks. “When you go back to the staff with a 0 percent increase in health insurance, I hope you’ll point out the row increase of 2.3 percent is more like 5.3 percent,” said school board president Pete Blair.

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VOLUNTEER WEEK �� April 15-21

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A4 Wednesday, April 18, 2018

ACCENT

Delta County Independent

Book giveaway gets kids dancing, singing and reading BY TRACY IHNOT Delta County Libraries

Every library in Delta County offers weekly storytimes for babies through 5-year-olds to introduce early literacy skills to Delta County

children. Stories, songs, crafts, activities, and social time come together to offer an engaging experience for children and their parents or caretakers. During the weeks of

Photo submitted

Hotchkiss Library manager Terry Johns tickles baby Teagan’s foot while the preschool children make a tambourine to shake along with the story “Groovy Joe: Dance Party Countdown.” “Groovy Joe,” by Eric Litwin, is the 2018 winning title of the One Book 4 Colorado book giveaway.

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April 9-23, libraries across the county are delivering nearly 500 books into the hands of 4year-olds for the seventh annual One Book 4 Colorado book giveaway. The winning book, “Groovy Joe: Dance Party Countdown,” by Eric Litwin, offers a unique opportunity to blend reading with movement and music. Following a dramatic and enthusiastic reading of the book, Hotchkiss Library manager Terry Johns handed out materials for each child to make a tambourine to take home. Younger siblings watched in awe as the children shook their tambourines, singing “Disco party, bow, wow! Disco party, bow, wow!” For more information on the book giveaway, storytimes in your area, or a full calendar of events, contact your local library or visit www.delta libraries.org.

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Treats for Hometown Heroes

Girls from Girl Scout Troop #10083 of Delta delivered sweet treats to the staff of Crossroads Assisted Living, Willow Tree Care Center and the Delta House last week. During this year’s cookie sales, girls asked their customers to donate cookies to their Hometown Heroes. The troop this year selected the staffs of the three assisted living/nursing facilities as their Hometown Heroes to acknowledge and honor the hard work the staff does to care for our elderly citizens. Thanks to their customers, the girls were able to donate about four cases of cookies to each facility. The troop is pictured with Crossroads staff members Kylynn (who they learned is a former Girl Scout!) and Danielle. Troop #10083 is co-led by Jessica Anderson, Jessica Findley, Jessica Earl and Kami Collins, and is comprised of girls from kindergarten through sixth grade.

Partners auction features $40,000+ of goods, services Partners Mentoring has served kids in Delta, Montrose and Ouray counties for more than three decades and the annual Partners auction plays a crucial role in providing high quality mentoring programs. The auction, Partners largest fundraising event, kicks off on Monday, April 30, with items closing daily

BIRTH Joe and Jeni Tomei of Hotchkiss are the parents of a daughter, Peggy Ann Tomei, born April 7, 2018, at Delta County Memorial Hospital. She weighed 5 pounds, 4 ounces and was 17.5 inches in length.

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until May 4. This year Partners will feature more than 400 items including gift certificates for shops, restaurants, grocery stores and vehicle services. The event has tools, sporting goods and project items like gravel and building material. Regional items include vacation packages, tickets to sporting events, rounds of golf and more. Since 2016 the Partners Auction is online. Go to www.partners-west.org and click the auction button. The online format is safe, easy and a fun way to score deals on great items. The page is now

open to browse the products but you must register on the site to bid. All of the 400 items will open for bidding at 8 a.m. Monday, April 30. Each evening at 8 p.m. more items will close. Additional bidding information is available online. The proceeds of the Partners auction enable Partners to provide monthly activities, volunteer mentor support and other program-related costs. For more information about the Partners auction, or about becoming a mentor for a local youth, call 249-1116 or go to www.partners-west. org.

Horseshoe, corn hole tournament planned VFW Post #3571 of Delta and the VFW Auxiliary are planning a new event — a horseshoe and corn hole tournament to take place Saturday, June 9, at Cleland Park in Delta. The veterans organizations are seeking sponsors for this event, which

is a fundraiser for a new building in North Delta. A donation of $70 or more would be greatly appreciated. Prizes are also welcome. Sponsor names will be prominently displayed at the tournament. For more information, call Della Ware at 8723327.

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Call for photographers Black Canyon Camera Club will be hosting its fourth annual photography show and sale at the Creamery Arts Center in Hotchkiss June 8-30. Photographers are invited to submit up to four photographs in one of three classes (18 and under, novice, and open). The open class comprises six categories.

The registration deadline is May 20, and there is an early registration discount for the open class until April 30. The perimeter (sum of all sides) of an entry (including framing) must not exceed 200 inches. The prospectus and entry form are available on the club website: www.blackcanyoncamera club.com.

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LOCAL NEWS

Delta County Independent

Wednesday, April 18, 2018

Democrats support Cary Kennedy for governor With support of 61.65 percent of the Colorado Democratic Party State Assembly, Cary Kennedy secured top line on the June 26 Democratic primary ballot. Kennedy’s statewide support and strong momentum grew her lead from the 50 percent support coming out of precinct caucus. With this victory, Kennedy is in a strong position to win the primary in June and to win the general election in November.

“Thank you to all of the Democrats in Colorado who gave up their Saturday to participate in this important, grassroots process,” said Kennedy. “I am so grateful to the delegates who supported me today and throughout the caucus process. This grassroots momentum is going to take me to victory in June and November.” Jared Polis received 32.86 percent of the votes, providing another

choice for governor for the state’s Democrats. Also qualifying for the primary were Lesley Smith, CU regent at large; Dave Young and Bernard Douthit, treasurer; Jena Griswold, secretary of state; and Phil Weiser and Joe Salazar, attorney general. Other candidates have chosen to qualify for the ballot by submitting peti-

Photo submitted

After considerable delay, 2,951 delegates of the 4,201 possible state delegates were confirmed to the Republican State Convention on April 14. Delta was well represented and got front row seating. The State Republican Convention is the grassroots platform for candidates’ selection to the primary ballot in June 2018. The results of the convention were: State treasurer — Justin Everett. Governor — Greg Lopez and Walker Stapleton. Attorney general — George Brauchler. CU Regents — Ken Montera (at large) and Glenn Gallegos (Third

DCED celebrates a productive year BY RANDY SUNDERLAND General Manager

For Delta County Economic Development, 2017 was a busy year and a reason to celebrate at its annual meeting on Thursday, April 12. Board president John Gavan welcomed members and guests, and offered a brief recap of the year. He also introduced Stacey Voigt, who was hired as executive director in the winter of 2017. Voigt began her presentation by thanking everyone in the room for the hard work they have been doing to improve the Delta County economy. “You guys have done an amazing amount of work to build the foundation needed for economic development.” Noteworthy are the Delta County School District and its Engage entreprenuerial program, and Delta Montrose Electric Association and its Elevate broadband enterprise. She also praised the county branding effort and its tag line “Climate to Create, Energy to Grow.” Voigt pointed out DCED helped 20 businesses to relocate or expand in Delta County, including Colorado Stone Quarries and DIP CO. DCED also hosted two big conferences — the E2 Energy and Technology Conference and the Western Colorado Soil Conference. Voigt explained that in March the board devoted a day to strategic planning. From that emerged priorities of growing the economy, growing DCED and water conservation.

Victor Mitchell to visit Delta

Victor Mitchell, Republican candidate for governor of Colorado, will be at the Veterans Canteen for a meet-and-greet Thursday, April 19, 1 to 2:30 Congressional District). p.m. The Veterans CanSecretary of state — teen is located at 3622 Wayne Williams. 1600 Road, Delta. For Third Congressional directions or more inforDistrict representative mation, call Alan Story at — Scott Tipton. 216-4481. State representative, District 61 — Mike Mason. State Senate, District 5 — Olen Lund. Roger Bentley, Delta County Republican chair, noted, “This is the first year that unaffiliated voters may vote in the primaries of their choice. As things progress all voters are encouraged to study the candidates, as June will be here soon. Several Republican candidates have petitioned onto the primary ballot as well.”

GOP candidates selected for primary

As an organization, they hope to change the culture of Delta County, work on affordable housing, agriculture, grow healthy places, utilize the tech college to support small businesses, entrepreneurs and trade education, and encourage the installation of electric vehicle charging stations. Vice president Tom Huerkamp talked about water conservation. He explained that the state has roughly 500,000 acre feet of water that is being improperly used, with nearly 300,000 of that in Delta County north of the Gunnison River. Most of the local water rights predate the downstream users, giving Delta County a major resource if it can claim it. He said DCED should start the charge, including politically, to increase storage in Delta County. According to Huerkamp, if all the reservoirs on Grand Mesa were elevated by two feet, there would be space to contain the 300,000 acre feet. “Someone will pay a terrible price for that water in the future ... I think this is a good project for DCED.” When Voigt opened the meeting to questions, she was asked what was meant with changing the culture of Delta County. She explained that during the visioning session, it was noted that there are “some challenges of getting along” between communities. “Each community has its own identity,” which is important,” said Voigt. “But the county could be working together better ... unity, unity, unity kept coming up.”

to witness democracy in action, meet with Democrats from all over Colorado, and learn more about how to be involved. “I am a lifelong Democrat,” she said. “I believe that my party shares my values of addressing climate change/glob-

al warming, universal health care, investing in public education, safeguarding women’s reproductive rights, and being the party of inclusion. Democracy is a fragile thing — I believe in being active and showing up to keep it strong.”

Swim tryouts planned The Delta Barracuda swim team will be holding tryouts April 23, 24 and 25 at 4:30 p.m. at Bill Heddles Recreation Center. If your child is interested in swimming this summer, please contact Coach Karoline at 970-901-9612 to set up the tryout.

Delta County was well represented at the Colorado Democratic Party State Assembly.

tion signatures instead of going through the caucus-assembly process. Mary Hockenbery, one of several delegates from Delta County, noted it’s quite a trek to travel to the state assemblies on the Front Range, but said it was worth the effort

Students of the Month

Photos submitted

Delta Middle School proudly announces the March Students of the Month. Pictured above are sixth graders (left to right) Dakota Jessee, Ana Asavei, Kyler Pietak, John Martinez, Anabelle Kraai, Nicholas Serve and Wyatt Terrell. Below are seventh and eighth grade students (front row, left to right) Hayley Lancaster, Everlea Lewis, Hazel Lancaster, Ryelle Wilding, Kiara Fresquez, Ezria Abeyta, Evelyln Guttierez; (back row) Devan Neil, Jacob Edwards, Alexis Barajas, Mackenzie Sharpe, Ellie Ames and Ray Bermudez. Not pictured: Brendan Baier and Courage Gallegos.

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Awards listed for student artists If you haven’t had a chance to stop by the Garden Center at 1970 S. Main in Delta to see the student art show, you have a few more opportunities. The show is open Monday-Thursday, 10 a.m. to 6 p.m., through April 22. There is no charge. The 70,000-squarefoot building is filled with works of art from virtually every elementary, middle and high school artist in Delta County. The art is organized by school. The People’s Choice Award went to Sarrah Weaver, a junior at Delta High School, for a digital piece titled “Human.” Runner-up was Felicity Wilmot, a junior who worked with splatter paint. The rest of the awards were determined by judge Thaddeus Smith, who spent over four hours studying student work and hanging awards. The winners included: Chuck Close Award for Most Realistic Drawings and Paintings — Melissa Lundy, Vision Charter Academy; Mackenzie Hill, Vision Charter Academy; and Axyle Belveal, Cedaredge. Leonardo Da Vinci Award for Most Innovative Artist — Cleya Hartter, Paonia, gold; Xena Inskeep, Delta, silver. Vincent Van Gogh Award for Most Expressive Brushwork in Painting — Abby Williams, Cedaredge, gold; Hunter Campbell, Cedaredge, silver. Henry Matisse Award for Best Use of Color to Express Emotions — Sarrah Weaver, Delta, gold; Alesha St. Peter, Delta, silver. Wassily Kandinsky Award for Best Design

WE’RE MOVING THINGS AROUND, SO LET US HELP YOU FIND WHAT YOU NEED Look for Great Deals Throughout the Store ��

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Delta County Independent

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of Non-Objective Work — Felicity Wilmot, Delta, gold; Morgan Ristu, Paonia, silver. Georgia O’Keeffe Award for Creative Cropping and Composition — Hailee Ruble, Delta, gold; Carson Collins, Hotchkiss, silver. Claude Monet Award for Best Depiction of Light on a Subject — Abby Williams, Cedaredge, gold; Cleya Hartter, Paonia, silver. Salvador Dali Award for Most Imaginative Combination of Subject Matter — Xena Inskeep, Delta, gold; Sarrah Weaver, Delta, silver. Jackson Pollock Award for the Most Expressive Artist (Messiest) —Abigail Vespia, Hotchkiss, gold; Stephanie Berrelleza, Delta, silver. Michelangelo Award for Best in Sculpture — Briar Wagner, Cedaredge, gold; Meeka Galyean, Delta, silver. Houkusai Award for Best in Printmaking — Abigail Vespie, Hotchkiss, gold; Bella Brezonick, Hotchkiss, silver. Pablo Picasso Award for Best Abstract Artwork — Alexia Quinn, Delta, gold; Abby Week, Delta, silver. Andy Warhol Award for the Most Trendy Artwork — Sadearah Hanson, Delta, gold; Raven Galbreath, Hotchkiss, silver. Maria Martinez Award for Best Handbuilt Clay — Mia Cowan, Paonia, gold; Jacob Stucker, Hotchkiss, silver. George E. Ohr Award for Best Thrown Clay Vessel — Justin Hanning, Delta, gold and silver.

Adams Award for Best Black & White Photography — Brianna Grieger, Hotchkiss, first; Adam Kaster, Hotchkiss, silver. William Addison Dwiggins Award for Best Graphic Design — Grace Hatheway, Cedaredge, gold; Caitlyn Littlefield, Hotchkiss, silver. Norman Rockwell Award for Best Illustrator — Jaden Borgman, Hotchkiss, gold; Axyle Belveal, Cedaredge, silver. Mary Cassatt Award for Best Portrait — Cleya Hartter, Paonia, gold; Axyle Belveal, Cedaredge, silver. Frida Kahlo Award for Best Use of Iconology & Symbolism — Caitlyn Littlefield, Hotchkiss, gold; Orin Blankenship, Paonia, silver. Marchel Ducamp Award for Breaking the Rules — Orin Blankenship, Paonia, gold; Elena Melgoza, Delta, silver. Frederic Remington Award for Best Landscape — Amelia Hickman, Hotchkiss, gold; Grace Deck, Paonia, silver. Edgar Degas Award for Best Capture of a Moment in Time —Hunter Campbell, Cedaredge, gold; Jesus Macias, Hotchkiss, silver. Little’s Awards Little Jackson Pollock — Joachim Jones, Lincoln Elementary. Little Leonardo Da Vinci — Keely - Taylor Tia, Lincoln Elementary. Little Pablo Picasso — Kindra Judkins, North Fork Montessori at Crawford. Little Michelangelo — Brooklyn Matus, Hotchkiss K-8.

People’s Choice “Human” by Sarrah Weaver Little Mary Cassatt — Brylan Cotten, Paonia. Little Andy Warhol — Paris West, Hotchkiss K-8. Technique Awards Photoshop — Raynne Crocket, North Fork Montessori at Crawford. String art — Amanda Cotten, Delta. Graphite — Mikayla Rae Burnett, Hotchkiss. Acrylic — Trinity Rodrick, Hotchkiss. Chalk Pastel — Jaycie Duncan, Hotchkiss. Charcoal — Jeneve Rose Mitchell, Hotchkiss. Watercolor — Dalia Alejandre, Delta. Photography — Emma White, Paonia. Jewelry — Jesus, Hotchkiss. Sculpture — Adair Ela, Hotchkiss. Mixed Media — Dana Keil, Hotchkiss. Honorable mentions — Katlynn Winston, Vision Charter Academy; Isabella Spruies, Hotchkiss; Elena Melgoza, Delta; Aubrey Jones, Delta; Felicity Wilmot, Delta; Emily Volgamore, Delta.

Student showcases scheduled Student projects, art and talent will be displayed at the Vision Charter Academy showcase and talent show. Learners and faculty from Vision Charter Academy will host two events — Thursday, April 26, 5 to 7 p.m. at Delta High School and Thursday, May 3, 5 to 7 p.m. at the North Fork Campus in Paonia. Visit visioncharter academy.org for more information.

People’s Choice Runner-up by Felicity Wilmot

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Photo by Pat Sunderland

As part of the opening reception, young students went on a scavenger hunt. They were challenged to ﬁnd a portrait, a piece of artwork with food, a Picasso-style painting, a piece of abstract art and others. The 20 clues piqued student interest while also educating them about concepts such as “monochromatic” and “still life.”

HEALTH AND FITNESS

Delta County Independent

Wednesday, April 18, 2018

Screenings can prevent colon cancer BY DR. DORINDA ROUCH Delta County Memorial Hospital

After celebrating my 50th birthday this year, I soon found myself staring at the box of prep solution for my screening colonoscopy. What seemed like a good idea when suggested by my primary care provider now seemed like self-inflicted suffering. I began asking myself ...

Why do I need to do screening? Most colon cancers can be prevented or detected early with screening. Most colon cancers arise from benign (non-cancerous) polyps that become cancer over a period of years. Most polyps can be removed at the time of colonoscopy. If a colon cancer is found at an early stage, it can

be cured with surgery. Screening has decreased the rate of deaths from colon cancer by 50 percent over the last few decades. Why start screening at at 50? The chance of being diagnosed with colon cancer starts to increase somewhere between ages 45-50, with 90 percent of colon cancers occur-

Eat right, live strong BY SARAH LAIRD A Kidz Clinic

Spring is in full swing! With the arrival of this season we can all plan for the upcoming months of sunshine and all of the things that come with it, like warmer weather attire. Many of us have quickly forgotten our New Year’s resolutions that may include weight loss, getting active, fitting into a certain outfit, and even dieting (bleh, I hate that word). This is not necessarily surprising; I too have been one to push this commitment to the side time and time again. This does not mean that overall good health is unattainable. About 75 percent of Americans follow a diet that is low in fruits, vegetables, dairy and oils (compared to the recommended values) — and most exceed the recommended portion for added sugars, sodium and saturated fats. It is no surprise that twothirds of U.S. adults are either overweight

or obese, and one in six children/adolescents between the ages of 2-19 years are considered to be obese. On top of these facts, about 80 percent of adults and adolescents in the U.S. do not do enough general physical activity. My nutrition education is far from formal, it is all self-researched and self-driven. I find that I am more confident in getting active as well as motivating others to do so. That being said, here are some tips that I personally apply in my life to help lead a healthy and strong lifestyle: • Include a variety of foods from all food groups on a regular basis (moderation is key). • Buy only an amount that can be eaten within a few days (or stored in the freezer) and plan to use leftovers before the end of each week (frozen veggies are life-savers for meal planning). • Be mindful of portion sizes, don’t force yourself to finish something sim-

ply because it is on your plate. • One hour is 4 percent of your day. Setting aside that 4 percent for yourself is important — get active! • Write down your health goals; it tends to keep you more accountable. • Never go three days in a row without exercising (even if you just go for a walk). • Aim for strong, not skinny. • No negative self-talk. Be proud of the changes you are making to be a better version of you. To jump start, try picking two tips from the list and add on as spring transitions to summer. Remember, as the seasons change so can you! Sarah Laird is clinic coordinator at A Kidz Clinic, a school-based clinic providing Delta County students with access to health care services, including mental and dental health. For more information, call 874-2753.

ring after age 50. Some people have risk factors that may alter the recommendation to start at age 50. These include a personal or family history of colon cancer or polyps, history of inflammatory bowel disease, history of pelvic radiation, or history of endometrial cancer before age 50. What are other risk factors? Other risk factors include obesity, diabetes mellitus, consuming red and processed meat, cigarette smoking and drinking more than 2 alcoholic beverages daily. A free online assessment tool is available at https://www. cancer.gov/colorectal cancerrisk. How can I reduce my risk of colon cancer? Studies have shown up to 27 percent reduction in colon cancer risk when comparing the most with the least active individuals. Eating a diet with high fiber and plenty of fresh fruit and vegetables may reduce the risk of colon cancer. Vitamin D, calcium and magnesium supplementation may decrease the risk as well. Daily use of aspirin and other drugs like aspirin may have a protective effect. But why a colonoscopy? Aren’t there other screening tests? Colonoscopy allows the doctor to see the colon directly and remove suspicious findings at the time of

Now is the time Atomic workers, uranium miners to talk invited to resource workshop Nuclear Care Partners is hosting a free resource workshop to help former atomic workers and uranium miners access the federal benefits they’ve earned to compensate for illnesses caused by radiation and toxic chemical exposure during their work on behalf of the United States’ defense. All former workers are invited to attend the workshop, free of charge, which will include the following information: • How to file a successful claim. Have you been denied? Learn why cases get denied and how to file a successful claim with the Department of Labor. • When to ask about home care. When is it time to consider getting some help in the home? What does DOL home care look like compared to Medicare home health? These and other questions will be answered. Two workshops are scheduled — Tuesday, April 24, at the Mesa County Library, 443 N. 6th Street, Grand Junction, and Wednesday, April 25, Montrose County Health & Human Services, 1845 S. Townsend Avenue, Montrose. Both

workshops run from 1 to 3 p.m. For more information about the Resource Workshop or Nuclear Care Partners please call 970361-3279. Since 1945, more than 600,000 men and women have served in more than 360 nuclear weapons facilities throughout the United States. Collectively, they built more than 70,000 nuclear weapons to deter — and if necessary, fight — a nuclear war. Many of these workers paid a high price for their service, including developing debilitating, and sometimes fatal, illnesses due to radiation and toxic chemical exposure. Nuclear Care Partners, an enrolled in-home care provider for the EEOICPA program, wants former atomic workers to have the information and resources they need to understand and to access their benefits — which includes up to $400,000 in addition to medical care — under this special program. “DOL paperwork is often confusing and it’s very common for people to think they’ve been

denied,” said John Kelley, community outreach manager at Nuclear Care Partners. “Many times they’re just stuck somewhere in the process or they did get denied and they think that’s all they can do. I want them to know that there are resources available to them and I’m always happy to connect them to the right people.”

In addition to talking to your child about alcohol, marijuana and other drugs, it is very important to talk with them about the dangers of taking medications not prescribed for them, including over-the-counter medications. Visit speaknow colorado.org for more resources and tips on how to start the conversation.

the test. If there are no polyps at the time of colonoscopy, screening is done every 10 years. Other tests that directly look at the colon include CT colonography (screening interval of every 5 years) and flexible sigmoidoscopy (screening interval of every 5 years). Stool based tests include an annual fecal-based immunochemical test

Dr. Dorinda Rouch

(FIT) which screens for hidden blood in the stool, or a FIT-DNA test which can be done every three years and looks for hidden blood and DNA from colon cancer and polyps. Guiac-based stool tests and barium enemas are not recommended for screening. When can I stop screening? Talk to your primary doctor, but in general screening can stop between the ages of 75-85 depending on other medical conditions. In the end, when I had answered all of my doubtfilled questions, I decided to swallow my fear. “Bottoms up!” I toasted to the fact that I was making a positive and proactive health decision. Dr. Dorinda Rouch is an oncologist/hematologist with DCMH’s Grand Mesa Oncology Center.

Grief support group meetings begin May 22 Although each person’s grief is unique, those coping with the death of a loved one share a common bond. “Mending Hearts, a 10week support group, will meet Tuesdays from May 22 to July 23 (10 weeks) from 3 to 4:30 p.m. at All Saints Lutheran Church, 20101 Deer Creek Road, Austin. Each session begins

with grief education, followed by a small group discussion. Anyone coping with the death of a loved one is invited to attend this group free of charge. Pre-registration is suggested but not required. To register or for more information about these groups, call 970-248-8844 or email AdultSupport@ HopeWestCO.org.

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HEALTH AND FITNESS

Delta County Independent

Rock Steady Boxing empowers people living with Parkinson’s to fight back

A decade of service

Heather Cannell (left) and Amanda Bradley were recently recognized for 10 years of employment at Delta County Memorial Hospital.

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This April, Rock Steady Boxing of Western Slope CO, located at Anytime Fitness in Delta, will join millions in observing Parkinson’s Awareness Month. A progressive disorder of the nervous system that affects the ability to walk, talk, balance and move, Rock Steady Boxing Western Slope CO gives those living with Parkinson’s hope today by offering a non-contact, boxing-inspired fitness routine proving to dramatically improve their quality of life. According to the Parkinson’s Disease Foundation, more than 10 million people worldwide are living with Parkinson’s disease and more than 60,000 Americans

are diagnosed each year. Recent medical studies, including one at the Cleveland Clinic, focus on intense “forced” exercise and indicate that certain types of exercise can exert a neuroprotective influence and may actually slow the progression of the chronic, incurable disease. Rock Steady Boxing serves participants at all stages of Parkinson’s, from the newly diagnosed to those who have been living with the disease for decades plus. “Parkinson’s Awareness Month is an opportunity for us to raise awareness about the disease our fighters live with on a daily basis and to reflect on their courageous battle. Rock Steady Boxing is about more than just one class or one program; our mission is to inspire and provide hope and better quality of life globally for those who are fighting back against Parkinson’s disease,” said Jan Blue, head coach of Rock Steady Boxing Western Slope CO. Blue and Charlie Farrell of Cedaredge are the owners and operators of Rock Steady Boxing Western Slope CO. Farrell was diagnosed with Parkinson’s disease in 2013. He first heard about Rock Steady Boxing from an interview with Leslie Stahl on CBS News. During January and February 2017, Blue and Far-

Charlie Farrell, a Parkinson’s disease sufferer for 10 years, works the speed bag in his home exercise room. He uses the equipment for conditioning, to relieve episodes of listlessness, and to improve ﬁtness for enjoying everyday life activities. rell attended Rock Steady Boxing in Palm Springs, Calif., twice a week. Farrell saw “unbelievable” improvement in his symptoms. Recognizing the need for Rock Steady Boxing in our community and a willingness to share based on Farrell’s personal experience, Blue and Farrell attended the required two-day “training camp” in Indianapolis, Ind., to become certified Rock Steady Boxing coaches. They held their first Rock Steady Boxing class in June 2017. Classes are offered Tuesdays and Thursdays from 10 to 11:30 a.m. at Anytime Fitness. The training/exer-

cise sessions are offered at no cost; however, use of the facility requires that participants have a gym membership. The class consistently has a dozen fighters/boxers each training session, but is in need of additional volunteers to serve as “corner persons.” To see a Rock Steady Boxing class in action, visit the class on Thursday, April 26. To learn more about the program, contact Jan Blue or Charlie Farrell at 970-3997272 or westernslope@ rbsaffiliate.com. You can follow the class on Facebook, rsbwesternslopeco “Beat Parkinson’s.”

Poison hemlock: Looks can be deceiving Celebrating National Volunteers Week April 15-21, 2018 ��

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This spring, the Montrose County Public Health Department urges residents to be mindful of poison hemlock. It is in the same family as carrots and parsley, but can be fatal when eaten. If you or someone you know forages for wild plants, please be on the lookout for poison hemlock. Poison hemlock leaves and roots resemble carrots but can be distinguished by looking closely. Poison hemlock stems always have some amount of red or purple spotting on them, even when young. The roots are not orange like a carrot, but rather yellowish or dirty white in color. Also, carrot leaves and stems are somewhat hairy but not poison hemlock, which has smooth stems and leaves. In fact, poison hemlock leaves often look shiny, especially compared with carrot leaves. It also has a distinct unpleasant musty smell. Poison hemlock is acutely toxic to people and animals, with symptoms appearing 20 minutes to three hours after ingestion. All parts of the plant are poisonous

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and even the dead canes remain toxic for up to three years. The amount of toxin varies and tends to be higher in sunny areas. Eating the plant is the main danger, but it is also toxic to the skin and respiratory system. When digging or mowing large amounts of poison hemlock, it is best to wear gloves and a mask or take frequent breaks to avoid becoming ill. The typical symptoms for humans include dilation of the pupils, dizziness, and trembling followed by slowing of the heartbeat, paralysis of the central nervous system, muscle paralysis, and death due to respiratory failure. For animals, symptoms include nervous trembling, salivation, lack of coordination, pupil dilation, rapid weak

CPR, first aid offered Bill Heddles Recreation Center is hosting an American Red Cross community CPR/AED and first aid class Saturday, May 13, from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. You must register and pay the $85 fee three days prior to the start of the class. For more information, contact John Volk at 8740923 or john@cityofdelta. net.

pulse, respiratory paralysis, coma, and sometimes death. For both people and animals, quick treatment can reverse the harm and typically there are no noticeable aftereffects. If you suspect poisoning from this plant, call for help immediately because the toxins are fast-acting — for people, call Poison Control at 1800-222-1222 or for animals, call your veterinarian.

Photo by Patrick J. Alexander, USDA-NRCS Plants Database

Hemlock Root

HEALTH AND FITNESS

Delta County Independent

Wednesday, April 18, 2018

Janel Webb awarded full ride MSN scholarship Janel Webb, night supervisor and clinical educator at Delta County Memorial Hospital (DCMH), was awarded a full-tuition scholarship for an online master’s degree in nursing through American Sentinel University’s Colorado Health Care Star Award program, announced American Sentinel University and Colorado Hospital Association (CHA), during an April CHA annual awards dinner recently. Webb was recognized as a Colorado Health Care Star in August 2017. She was nominated by the chief clinical officer at the hospital for

her efforts in developing a comprehensive clinical education program in addition to her duties as ICU manager. She is also the lead instructor for Delta County Memorial’s Advanced Cardiac Life Support and Basic Life Support classes. “Janel is one of many excellent nurses that serve the Delta County community,” said chief nursing officer Jody Roeber, RN, MSN. “Not only is Janel an outstanding health care provider, she is passionate about her work. Janel stands out because she always goes above and beyond in everything she does. She

is quick to see a need and fills it. We are honored to have Janel Webb as part of our team at DCMH.” The Colorado Health Care Star Award program runs April-March, acknowledging one Colorado nursing or other health care professional each month for his or her exceptional performance and delivery of health care. At the end-of-year banquet in April, the university, CHA and all 12 recipients of the award are recognized, and one name is drawn to receive a scholarship to be used toward any degree program offered by American Sentinel.

Webb plans to enroll in American Sentinel’s MSN nurse practitioner program, which the university launched in March 2018. “This is an opportunity that I am overwhelmed and surprised by,” says Webb, who holds a BSN from Pensacola Christian College. “I am thrilled to be able to further my health care career. One of the things I love the most about nursing is you can advance your education in many different specialties and avenues. I am so excited to start this next part of my career and education and to be able to bring the knowledge I

OBITUARIES

Lyle Linman

Lyle Linn Linman died April 7, 2018, at his home in Wray after a hardfought battle with brain cancer. He was 60. He was born Sept. 20, 1957, in Delta to William “Bill” and Lila Linman. He spent his childhood on the family ranch in Crawford and graduated from Hotchkiss High School in 1975. On Dec. 28, 1977, he married Debora Ferrier. In 1992, the family moved to Sedgwick to manage a ranch. The Linmans settled in Wray after Mr. Linman’s retirement in 2016. Mr. Linman was a lifetime cattleman and rancher. He rode for the West Elk Cattle Pool and the Black Mesa Cattle Pool when he was young, and he was a member of the Colorado Cattleman’s Association, Colorado Angus Association, National Rifle Association and the Delta County Cattleman’s Association. He served on the Revere High School accountability committee, Sedgwick Harvest Festival rodeo committee and the Sedgwick County Fair Board. He and his wife were the Sedgwick County Fair grand marshals in 2016. Mr. Linman enjoyed his cow dogs, working cattle on horseback, spending time with family and friends, and watching his grandchildren play sports, show animals in 4-H and compete in gymkhanas. He is survived by his wife of 40 years, Deb; daughter, Sherri (Paul) Brandt of Ovid; sons, Matthew (Kris) of Eckley and Clinton (Tamarah) of McLean, Texas; grandchildren, Kyle and Carlie Brandt, Grady, Gracee and Maggie Linman, Zade and Nedah Linman; mother, Lila Linman of

Crawford; brothers, Dennis (Penny) Linman of Hotchkiss, Scott (Marilyn) Linman of Colby, Kan., and Leslie Linman of Hotchkiss; father-inlaw, Dellis (Linda) Ferrier of Hotchkiss; sisters-inlaw, Pamela (Cleve) Filener and Marcia (Dave) Wyatt; brother-in-law, Andrew (Katie) Ferrier; and extended family. He was preceded in death by his father, William Linman; mother-inlaw, Bonnie Rollins and her husband Larry; sister-in-law, Patty Linman; and nephew, Casey Linman. Services were held April 14 at Ranchland Livestock Auction in Wray. Burial took place at the ranch south of Wray. Memorial contributions may be made to Hospice of the Plains, PO Box 365, Wray, CO 80758. Schmidt-Jones Funeral Home handled the arrangements.

Ruth Marvel

Clarice Ruth Marvel died at her son’s home in Montrose on April 13, 2018. She was 94. Per her wishes, no services will be held. Ruth Scott was born on Sept. 3, 1923, in Marlow, Okla., to Simon and Ethel Scott. The family moved to Delta and she graduated from Delta High School in 1941. That same year, she married Dean Marvel. They lived on the West Coast for 16 years before moving back to Delta in 1957. Mrs. Marvel was a beautician for 30 years; she owned and operated Marvel’s House of Beauty. She was a member of Delta Emblem Club since 1981; a volunteer for the Delta County Memorial Hospital cafeteria and gift shop since 1987, where she accumulated over 5,000 hours of volunteer service; and a volunteer at the Delta Chamber of Commerce and Delta County Museum. She was a member of Christ Church of the Valley in Montrose. She enjoyed doing crossword puzzles, reading, knitting and working in her greenhouse. She is survived by her sons, Bill (Gail) Marvel of Montrose and Jim Marvel

of Ammon, Idaho; daughter-in-law, Vennetta Marvel of Hotchkiss; sister, Margie Masi of Bakersfield, Calif.; 10 grandchildren; and numerous great-grandchildren. She was preceded in death by her husband, Dean Marvel; and sons, Ray Marvel and infant Thomas Marvel. Crippin Funeral Home & Crematory handled the arrangements.

Lois Webb

Grand Junction resident Lois Webb died Tuesday, April 17, 2018, at the Larchwood Inn in Grand Junction. She was 85. Funeral services will be held at 10 a.m. Thursday, April 19, at Taylor Funeral Service Chapel in Delta. Interment will follow at Mesa View Cemetery in Delta. Lois Elaine Nichols was born in Bellingham, Wash., June 9, 1932, to Harold and Gladys (St. Clair) Nichols. When she was young, the family moved to Oak Harbor, Wash., where she graduated from high school. On Oct. 11, 1952, she married Rufus Webb in Oak Harbor.

She was a former � member of several�� bowling leagues. She enjoyed crocheting, knitting, bowling, scrapbooking and spending time with her family. After Mr. Webb retired from the Navy, they moved to Delta, where they lived for 46 years. In May 2017 they moved to Grand Junction to be close to their children. Mrs. Webb is survived by three children, Debra (David) Borum, Gary (Gail) Webb and Robert (Janet) Webb; a brother, Sam (LeaRae) Nichols of Lake Havasu City, Ariz.; four grandchildren, Casey Borum, Holly Webb, Jeffrey (Ashley) Borum and Heather (Richard) White; five great-grandchildren; and extended family. She was preceded in death by her husband, Rufus Webb; a sister, Lola LaRont; and a brother, Bill Nichols. Memorial contributions may be sent to HopeWest Hospice, 3090B N. 12th St., Grand Junction, CO 81506. Taylor Funeral Service and Crematory is handling the arrangements. Visit the internet obituary and sign the online guest registry at www. taylorfuneralservice.com.

gain back to my hospital and community.” Elaine Foster, American Sentinel’s dean of nursing and health care programs, keynoted the event, speaking about the value of education and nurses progressing as health care leaders. “When American Sentinel and CHA founded Colorado Health Care Stars, our goal was to honor some of the healthcare professionals in our great state who are committed to excellence in care and exemplify true leadership,” says Dr. Foster. “Janel is very deserving of the award and the scholarship. She is compassionate and devoted to making Delta County Memorial a quality pro-

vider of care to the community that it serves and has gone above and beyond to educate staff there. We congratulate her and look forward to welcoming her into the MSN program.”

Janel Webb

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� �� Henrietta Keenan Henrietta Keenan �� died March 31, 2018, at Colorow Care Center in �� Olathe. She was 86. �� Services will be held Saturday, April 21, at 11 �� a.m. at Crawford Community United Methodist Church.

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John LeRoy Borich March 7, 1929 ~ April 15, 2018 John LeRoy Borich “Pete” passed away Sunday evening April 15, 2018 at his home in Loma, Colo., with his loving wife Louise at his side. He was 89 years of age. LeRoy was born March 7, 1929, in Glenwood Springs, Colo., to Anna and Pete Borich. LeRoy joined the Navy in 1946 and served on a transport carrier in the Philippines through 1948. In 1952 he married Louise Pennington in Delta, Colo. LeRoy and Louise bought the family ranch at Ragged Mountain in 1965 where he was able to live out his passion for ranching.

He leaves his wife Louise, children Sherry, Toni, Debbie (Jerry), Pete, Rick (Kelly), 10 grandchildren and 12 great-grandchildren. He was preceded in death by his parents, three sisters, one brother and one son. Graveside service will be held at Cedar Hill Cemetery in Paonia, Colorado, Monday, April 23, 2018, at 1 p.m. Arrangements are under the care and direction of Taylor Funeral Service and Crematory. View the internet obituary and sign the online guest registry at www.taylorfuneralser vice.com. Paid obituary

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A10 Wednesday, April 18, 2018

Bob Bouwens

Bernard E. “Bob” Bouwens died at his son’s home in Phoenix, Ariz., Feb. 7, 2018. He was 88. Mr. Bouwens was born in Wabino, Wis., Feb. 18, 1929, to Bernie and Myrtle (Johnson) Bouwens. He married Hilda Wardlaw on Sept. 10, 1967. She died in February 2001. Mr. Bouwens enjoyed spending time with his family and woodworking. He completed many rocking chairs, rocking horses, clocks and cradles. He is survived by his children, Larry (Debbie) Lynn, Ray (Peggy) Wardlaw, Len (Cindy) Wardlaw and Jimmy (Cheryl) Wardlaw; three brothers, Dennis (Vickie), Kenneth and Pete; a sister, Loralee Green; 19 grandchildren; numerous great-grandchildren; a special friend, Patti Wardlaw; and extended family. His ashes will be buried with his wife’s in Paonia May 27 at 3 p.m. A celebration of life will be held at the American Legion, 40772 Lamborn Mesa Road, Paonia, following the brief burial service. Please bring some of Mr. Bouwens’ small wood projects to share with all.

OBITUARIES

his wife RV’ed for many years after his retirement. They held memberships in numerous archeological and historical societies. Mr. Peters was a site steward for the State of Arizona’s historic preservation office and worked closely with land managers reporting and photographing rock art and other archeological sites. He is survived by his wife, Charlotte of Sun City West, Ariz.; sisters, Edna Ives and Lorena Hudgens of Delta and Vesta Trujillo of Vernal, Utah; daughters, Lisa McIntyre of Denver and Shauna Hill of Arvada; grandchildren, Jordan (Julia) Hill of Arvada, Jacob Greenwood of Denver and Jessica Greenwood of New Zealand; and a great-granddaughter, Josie Rae Hill of Arvada. He was preceded in death by sisters, Darlene White and Arletta Markley; a brother, Doran Peters; and extended family. Mr. Peters requested no services. A celebration of life will be held during a family reunion to take place in Delta in August. Memorial contributions may be made to HopeWest, PO Box 24, Delta, CO 81416.

Russell Crick

dren; and three greatgrandchildren. Taylor Funeral Service and Crematory is handling the arrangements. Visit the internet obituary and sign the online guest registry at www. taylorfuneralservice.com.

Roberta Smartt

Former Cedaredge resident Roberta Moore Smartt died April 12, 2018, in Phoenix, Ariz. She was 93. She was born on March 25, 1925, in Fort Collins to William and Virginia Moore. On Sept. 27, 1942, she married Jack Smartt. They were married almost 63 years before his death on May 1, 2005. Mrs. Smartt was an artist with oil paintings distributed around the world and she enjoyed being a mother and wife. She is survived by four sons, William, James, Richard and Jack; daughter, Joyce Kay; and numerous grandchildren and great-grandchildren. She was preceded in death by her husband, Jack; and her son, Jonathan. Memorial contributions may be made to Hospice of the West 21410 N. 19th Ave., Phoenix, AZ 85027.

Russell L. Crick of Fruita died Tuesday, April 10, 2018, at his home. He was 72. Funeral services will be held Saturday, April 21, at 10 a.m. at Brownson Arena at CMU. Mr. Crick was a professor and coach. He is survived by his wife, Agnes Crick of Fruita; two daughters, Deborah Nuffer of Elbert and Cindy Larson of Clifton; a son, Bobby Crick of Grand Junction; four brothers; one sister; and six grandchildren. Memorial contributions may be sent to HopeWest & Hospice, 3090 B North 12th St., Grand Junction, CO 81506; or the Rusty Crick Volleyball Scholarship Fund, c/o CMU, 1100 Ruth McKenna North Ave., Grand JuncTruman Peters Cedaredge resident tion, CO 81501. Truman D. Peters died Arrangements are Ruth B. McKenna died April 5, 2018, due to com- being handled by Calla- April 9, 2018, at Wilplications of Parkinson’s han Edfast Mortuary. low Tree Care Center in disease. He was 79. Delta. She was 91. He was born in Campo, Rosary was recited Baca County, on June 26, Baudelia Renalado and Mass of Christian 1938, to Sam and Ruth Burial was held April 13 De Gonzalez Peters. His family moved Hotchkiss resident at St. Philip Benizi Cathto Delta in 1939 and he Baudelia Renalado De olic Church. Interment attended school here. Gonzalez died April 9, followed at Cedaredge He was a cowboy 2018, at St. Mary’s Medi- Cemetery. in Escalante Canyon, cal Center in Grand JuncRuth M. Baumberger helped survey the ura- tion. She was 72. was born on Aug. 20, nium claims in Utah and A memorial service 1926, to Hermine and joined the U.S. Air Force. will be held at 2 p.m. Fri- Albert Baumberger in That’s where he learned day, April 20, at Taylor Jonesboro, Ark. She his trade in power plant Funeral Service Chapel spent her childhood and operations. He worked for in Delta. attended school in White Public Service Company Mrs. De Gonzalez is Plains and Chappaqua, of Colorado in Denver for survived by seven chil- N.Y., graduating from over 40 years. dren, Jesus (Carmen) Pleasantville New York He married Charlotte Gonzalez, Cesar (Maria) High School in 1944. Filer in 1987 and gained Gonzalez, On Nov. 26, 1949, she Francisco two teenage daughters. (Blanca) Gonzalez, Patri- married Peter Francis He enjoyed rock cia (Ricardo) Jurad and McKenna IV in Pasadehounding, silversmith- Manuel Gonzalez, all na, Calif. They shared 57 ing, polishing rocks, of Hotchkiss, Gerardo years of marriage before Native American history, (Laura) Gonzalez and his death. Delta County history and Lucila Gonzalez, all of Mrs. McKenna worked flint knapping. He and Mexico; 13 grandchil- in the county clerk’s

Delta County Independent

office in Glendale and Burbank, Calif. and then moved to Phoenix, Ariz., for 13 years. In 1968, they bought a ranch and moved to Cedaredge. The McKennas worked the ranch together and after retirement, travelled together. She was active in the Republican Party, serving as committee chair several times. Mrs. McKenna was also a member of the Cedar Mesa Club and St. Philip’s Altar and Rosary Society since 1968. She volunteered with Volunteers of America since 1975. During WWII, she knitted sweaters for children through the Red Cross. She is survived by Gary (Maribeth) McKenna of Centennial; sister, Helen Dunn; five grandchildren; and five greatgrandchildren. She was preceded in death by her husband, Peter; daughter, Marianne McPherson; and great-granddaughter, Michelle McPherson. Memorial contributions may be made to Food for the Poor, Inc. 6401 Lyons Road, Coconut Creek, FL 33073 or to St. Philip Benizi Catholic Church, PO Box 713, Cedaredge, CO 81413.

Taylor Funeral Service Keiser of Cedaredge; a and Crematory is han- brother, Donald Leatham dling the arrangements. of Brigham City, Utah; 10 grandchildren; 24 great-grandchildren and Rita Shupe 11 great-great-grandchilCedaredge resident dren. Rita Shupe died at her She was preceded in home Thursday, April 12, death by her husband, 2018. She was 97. four brothers, two sisters At her request, no serand a granddaughter. vices will be held. Taylor Funeral Service Rita Leatham was and Crematory is hanborn March 23, 1921, to dling the arrangements. Robert and Ida (George) Leatham in St. Anthony, Idaho. She spent her Ronald Ayers childhood and attendPaonia resident Roned schools in southeast ald R. Ayers died Friday, Idaho, Rawlins, Wyo., March 2, 2018, at his and Morgan, Utah. She home. He was 85. graduated from Morgan A graveside service is High School in 1940. planned at 10 a.m. FriOn Nov. 13, 1941, she day, April 20, at Vetermarried Lowell Shupe ans Memorial Cemetery in Malad, Idaho. They of Western Colorado in shared 49 years of mar- Grand Junction. A memoriage before his death rial service will be held at March 14, 1991, in Grants 2 p.m. Saturday, April 21, Pass, Ore. After his death, at Paonia United MethMrs. Shupe moved to odist Church. western Colorado. Mr. Ayers is survived She was a member of by his wife, Alma Ayers; the Church of Jesus Christ two sons, Randy (Kathof Latter-day Saints in leen) Ayers and Rick Cedaredge. She enjoyed (Carol) Ayers; a daughter, traveling and playing Eva Ayers; sister, Joan bridge and pinochle. Weaver; six grandchilShe is survived by two dren; and 13 great-grandsons, Dale (Fran) Shupe children. of Valencia, Calif., and Taylor Funeral Service Kent (Francis) Shupe and Crematory is hanof Riverside, Calif.; a dling the arrangements. daughter, Susan (Austin)

Cole Michael Lahoe Oct. 6, 2011 ~ April 11, 2018 Cole Michael Lahoe was born Oct. 6, 2011, to Michael and Kristi (Brandstadt) Lahoe in Montrose, Colo. Cole earned his wings April 11, 2018, at 6:21 a.m. at Children’s Hospital. A Celebration of Life service will be held at 10 a.m. Saturday, April 21, 2018, at the Delta High School gymnasium. Cole fought hard for 20 months but eventually lost his battle to leukemia. Cole lived his 6 years of life to the fullest. He never let a moment of time go wasted. Cole had a passion for sports, hunting, and fishing. He was mom and dad’s best friend. Cole loved everyone and had never met a stranger. He stole the hearts of many. No matter the struggle or pain, Cole never let it show and continued to do

his best at all he did. Cole loved to be with his family and always told everyone how much he loved them. He loved his brother and sister so much and always counted down events by how many sleeps were left. He was very smart, kind, funny, polite and unique. He loved to sing and had an imagination like no other. He was as perfect as a child could be and was an angel

from day one. He was our cuddle bug with a heart of gold. Cole is survived by his parents, Michael and Kristi Lahoe; siblings, Ashley and Brett Lahoe; grandparents, Mike and Kim Isom, Gary Brandstadt, Bob and Penny Green, Jeff and Michelle Dean and Vicki Powell; great-grandparents, John and Evey Frovarp and Gay Reese; and also many aunts, uncles, and cousins. The Cole Lahoe Memorial Fund has been set up at Bank of Colorado. Arrangements are under the care and direction of Taylor Funeral Service and Crematory. View the internet obituary and sign the online guest registry at www.taylorfuneral service.com. Paid obituary

Doug Tiffany Jan. 15, 2018 Doug Tiffany, longtime resident of Delta, Colo., passed away Monday, Jan. 15, 2018, from complications with pneumonia. He was 58 years old. Doug is survived by his wife of 33 years, Cathie Tiffany of Delta, Colo.; son, Chris Tiffany of Delta, Colo.; son, Michael Skelton and wife Rachael of Montrose, Colo.; son, Joshua Skelton and wife Emily of Hampstead, N.C.; daughter, Anna Tiffany of Las Vegas, Nev.; grandchildren, Brenleigh, Mikenlee, Johnathan, and Riley of Montrose; Taylor, Piper and Charlie of Hampstead, N.C.; mother, Patricia Tiffany and brother Randy Tiffany of Oxford, N.Y.; sister, Vicki Bond of North Carolina. Doug was preceded in death by his father, Victor Tiffany and beloved grandson Jordan Skelton. Doug’s work ethic and determination served him well as the owner/operator of Tiffany Trucking for the past 25 years. His creativity and drive to work hard had him building his business to own more than 11 semi-trucks, a sawmill, and various other pieces of large construction equipment. If somebody needed a job done, Doug made sure he had the equipment to do it. Doug loved motorcy-

cles and was an avid dirt track racer in several different classes, including IMCA modifieds. He took several track and state championships in modifieds. One reason Doug enjoyed racing so much was because of the close-knit relationships he shared with the people in the racing community, including his own daughter who shared in this passion as well. While continuing to race cars and run a business, Doug battled late stage 3 cancer in 2013 and won. He was changed so much by this experience that he went on to freely help those he knew and even those he did not know, manage their pain from cancer and other ailments. His desire to see people healed and benefit from alternative methods of treatment sent many members of the community to his door. His favorite stories to tell were of those who had success in treatment. As a practical joker,

Doug had a lot of fun teasing the staff at his favorite restaurants and the oncology nurses who treated him. It was not uncommon for Doug to sneak into the house and scare unsuspecting family and friends. He was even known to attempt to help with the application of makeup with his hands covered in black grease. His humor and good nature were always present. For those who knew Doug in his younger days, becoming a grandfather made him a noticeably different man. “Bubba,” as he was called, had endless patience for playing whatever game his grandchildren wanted to play or sneaking them large amounts of sherbet and candy for a snack. He spent time each day staying connected and spoiling all of his grandchildren both near and far away. More stories and memories will be shared at a memorial service on Saturday, April 21, at 10 a.m. at Taylor Funeral Home in Delta. All are welcome to attend and celebrate the life of Doug Tiffany. Arrangements are under the care and direction of Taylor Funeral Service and Crematory. View the internet obituary and sign the online guest registry at www. taylorfuneralservice. com. Paid obituary

Delta County Independent

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ACTIVITIES

Wednesday, April 18, 2018

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Taste of Spring set for April 21 Delta County Young Life and the Delta Lions Club present the third annual Taste of Spring Saturday, April 21, 5-8 p.m., at Bill Heddles Recreation Center. Ticket holders who attend the event are treated to samplings of some of Delta County’s best foods and beverages. In addition, David Starr will provide live music, and there will be a live and silent auction. “This fundraiser benefits two incredible nonprofits in our community, Delta Lions Club and Delta County Young Life,” said Ty Gallenbeck, Young Life director. “We appreciate your interest in participating in this worthwhile event that showcases some of western Colorado’s finest cuisine, most sought-after wines, craft beers and unique spirits offerings.” Tickets are $25 in advance. To RSVP, call 970-216-5680 or find Taste of Spring Delta 2018 on Facebook.

Quilt show scheduled April 27-28 The Basket Case Quilt Guild presents “Spring in Western Colorado,” a quilt and art show featuring 150+ quilts, vendors, classes, a boutique and more. The event will be held at The Garden Center, 1970 S. Main Street in Delta, on Friday, April 27, from 9 a.m. to 6 p.m. and on Saturday, April 28, from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. Admission is by donation to support the quilt guild’s community projects.

Photo submitted

Members of the VYO at a last season’s Music in The Parks competition in Denver celebrate their three ﬁrst place trophies in the junior division, senior division, and best overall ensemble (senior group).

Concert finale features the wonderful world of animals

The Valley Symphony Association (VSA) Orchestra will take a multigenerational approach to celebrate Earth Day and the final concert of its 47th season on Sunday, April 22, 3 p.m. at the Montrose Pavilion. Under the direction of Mike Kern, the VSA Orchestra will feature the Valley Youth Symphony (VYO) and together they will take the audience on “A Trip to the Wonderful World of Animals.” Kids of all ages can relate to the theme of an imaginary tour of animals, where the entire concert centers around animals associated with every piece. Some songs literally depict what an animal sounds like, while other pieces offer a nuanced theme about an animal or group of animals. The performance will highlight a variety of genres and contrasting styles, including classical, big band, pop, movie music and swing. Selections include “The Pink Panther,” “Baby Elephant Walk,” “The Theme from Angry Birds,” “Highlights from How to Train Your Dragon,” “Selections from

The Carnival of Animals Suite,” and “The Lion Sleeps Tonight.” The VSA will welcome the VYO as guests at this combined concert, which will bring together 88 musicians, who range in age from 5 to 91. The VYO nurtures string musicians from 5 to 18, who make up three string orchestras (beginner, intermediate, and advanced) that comprise the youth organization. Their director/conductor, Debra TenNapel of Montrose, who has served as the VSA’s concertmaster since 2005, explained that the concert will culminate with two pieces played by the adult and youth ensembles combined, which required a “massive” amount of planning and adaptation by VSA director Mike Kern. Both directors agree that exposing young musicians to playing with a full symphony is important, and TenNapel is thrilled for her young instrumentalists. “Having the experience of playing together in such a large group can provide these musicians with a new lease on what

The Guthrie Brothers present ‘Scarborough Fair’ Prepare to fall in love again with the music of Simon and Garfunkel! The Guthrie Brothers, Jeb and Jock will bring you that opportunity on Tuesday, April 24, at the Delta Performing Arts Center, 822 Grand Avenue, at 7:30 p.m. This wonderfully authentic rendition of Simon and Garfunkel songs is made available under the auspices of the DeltaMontrose Community Concert Association. From their first startlingly authentic rendition of “Sound of Silence,” to their playful version of Cecilia, Jeb and Jock Guthrie will have every audience member smiling ... and singing along. Through songs, stories, trivia and humor, they pay homage to the music of Simon and Garfunkel and playfully engage the audience along the way. The show highlights the brothers’ deep spiritual connection to this music, and to the ‘60s, the time period that made it all happen. Jeb and Jock perform this tribute show with

startling authenticity in an “unplugged” acoustic style. The brothers have been singing together for as long as either one of them can remember — a major reason for the perfect blend of their harmonies. Both play acoustic guitar and sing, and add a bit of percussion and bass from time to time.

If a 2018-2019 season ticket is purchased at this concert, the concert is free. Single admission prices are $20/adult, $5/ student. Season tickets are $45/adult, $15/student; $90/family. Doors open at 6:30 p.m. to purchase tickets. For more information, contact Bob Brown, 970-835-4480.

they might want to do with their instrument, and when kids who don’t play an instrument come to a concert, they can see themselves on stage, too,” she said. For information, upcoming concerts, the audition process, and tickets, visit the VSA on Facebook @valley symphonyassociation and at ValleySymphony.net. Tickets are also available in Delta at Clubb’s and in Montrose at DeVinny Jewelers and the Montrose Pavilion.

Rock Wranglers to meet Rock Wranglers will meet at 7 p.m. Thursday, May 3, at the Calvary Baptist Church, 1290 A Street, Delta. The program will be filling kids’ rock bags for the June 2 rock show. Everyone is asked to bring rocks for the bags.

Learn to play pickleball Learn to play pickleball Thursday, April 19, from 5:30 to 7:30 p.m. at Bill Heddles Recreation Center tennis courts. All levels are welcome. Instructors will be available for beginners. There is no charge; equipment and balls will be available.

Spring book sales support libraries across the county Shopping library book sales is a great way to find good deals on books and other materials, while supporting the local libraries. Library friends groups across the county are gearing up for their huge spring book sales. Friends of the Cedaredge Library host their annual spring book sale at the Stolte Shed on Saturday, April 21, from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. Shoppers will find great prices on romance, fiction, mystery, western, children’s, teens, sci-fi, and fantasy books.

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The same weekend in Paonia, Friends of the Paonia Library host their annual sale on Friday, April 20, from 1 to 5 p.m. and Saturday, April 21, from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. Shoppers at Paonia Library will find many new selections, as well as a half price table for westerns, romance novels, and old hardbacks. Later in May, Hotchkiss Library Friends host their annual sale at Memorial Hall during the Sheep Dog Trials on Friday, May 11, from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. and Satur-

day, May 12, from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. Their sale features rock bottom prices on all genres of books, movies, music, and other materials during the twoday event. The proceeds from each sale directly support the hosting library. Along with a good turnout of shoppers, each friends group needs volunteers to make the sales a success. Please contact your local library for more information or to volunteer. Visit www.delta libraries.org for a complete calendar of events.

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A12 Wednesday, April 18, 2018

BUSINESS

Delta County Independent

County wraps up Master Plan open houses BY ANNETTE BRAND Staff Writer

The Delta County Planning Commission concluded a series of open houses focusing on the Master Plan update. Commission

members took feedback from the community at an open house in Orchard City April 10, and at an open house in Delta April 11. The first of three open

houses, held in Hotchkiss in April 9, was reported in the April 11 DCI. Land use is the major focus of the Master Plan. Its adoption will provide for future land use regulations to meet a primary challenge of growth. The Colorado demographer has projected a 2 percent annual growth rate over a 30-year period, which forecasts 11,000 additional people moving to Delta County. Other challenges requiring solutions are the county’s high level of poverty, inadequate housing and a declining property tax base. Since 2007 the county has shown a decline in jobs. At the Orchard City meeting, Dick Gilmore asked about the core values in the Master Plan. Planning commission member Steve Schrock cited preservation of agriculture and ag sustainability above all. Bob Stechert, chair of the planning commission, pointed out that the cur-

rent Master Plan is an update of the 1997 plan. The goal is for the 2018 Master Plan to be a living document, with the planning commission reviewing it yearly, with input from the community. “This is a wonderful area we live in. Sometimes our neighbors’ activities differ from ours and the Master Plan provides opportunities for us to strike a balance among competing interests. It provides better ways to resolve problems at the front end and adopt regulations that will not be overly burdensome. When someone comes to the county with a proposal for development, that person will know in advance what he or she can and cannot do,” Stechert said. Ken Richards asked how the roles set out in the Master Plan would correlate with the core values. Planning commission member Tate Locke replied that the strategies laid out in the Master

Plan address the public comments the planning commission has received over the past year. Stechert referred Richards and others present to the posters on the wall which addressed agriculture, availability of water, economic development, developing jobs and other issues. “We want our children to stay in Delta County and that requires that we have a balance between economic development and the lifestyle we have now.” Les Mergelman expressed appreciation for the Master Plan and said it is headed toward planning and zoning to maintain agriculture, the culture built around agriculture and the future growth of agriculture. He urged those attending to look hard at the Master Plan and get behind it. Hard copies of the Master Plan are available at all Delta County libraries. It can also be found on the county’s website, www.deltacounty

plan.com. At the open house in Delta, Steve Schrock, planning commission member and a former city manager of Delta, expressed his disappointment at the small turnout and encouraged city residents to inform themselves about the Master Plan. Schrock said, “The Master Plan matters to the municipalities. What is set out in the Master Plan affects tax base, housing, incomes county wide, land use, incorporation. The larger parts of the Master plan include matters affecting all of the county. Talk to your neighbors about it.” Tom Gore said, “You say the Master Plan is not about regulation, but regulation is on every slide you have shown.” Stechert replied, “The Master Plan doesn’t create regulations, it envisions the need to change regulations. The current specific development regulations are not working well. The Master Plan provides guidelines for establishing regulations for people who want to develop in Delta County. There is not now a policy in place, and that needs to happen.” Russ Zick from Lakewood said he was thinking of relocating to Delta County. He asked if the Master Plan were modeled on a planning document from some other county in Colorado. Stechert said the planning commission looked at plans from Mesa and Montrose counties, but started with the Delta County 1997 Master Plan, which had not been updated or amended. The 2018 draft was based on input from across the county and from many sources. Planning commission vice chair Angela Mackey added, “We have worked with the consulting team from RPI Consulting also. “Zoning is necessary; we can’t have change by default. Broadband, the wave of the future, is coming to Delta County. We want Delta County to stay kind of the same but to be prosperous and respectful to all. We commit to being part of that change. If we don’t define it, someone else will.” A public hearing on the Master Plan will be held May 9 at Delta High School, and will be the last opportunity for input before adoption. Written and oral comments are welcome.

Chamber director resigns Darnell Place-Wise, executive director of the Delta Area Chamber of Commerce, has resigned her position effective Tuesday, May 15. She supplied a copy of her resignation letter, which states in part, “There are many contributing factors in my decision, but primarily, my family. I am absolutely spent, as the chamber is absolutely all consuming.” She added that her daughter will be starting high school in the fall and she would like to be more available than she’s been the past two. “I appreciate the opportunity to help turn the Delta Area Chamber of Commerce around and well in the black, financially. I appreciate the opportunity to bring so many new chamber members onboard. I appreciate being able to contribute to our community in such a positive way. I appreciate being able to work with like minded individuals who, at the very heart of who you are, want nothing but the very best for this beautiful community that we live in.” The chamber will be advertising the job opportunity.

NORTH FORK April 18, 2018

TIMES

Section

www.deltacountyindependent.com

It’s on to phase two for Paonia’s Space to Create BY TAMIE MECK Staff Writer

Completion of the Artspace feasibility study, the first phase of the Space to Create Paonia initiative. was celebrated at an April 9 dinner at Edesia Kitchen. The dinner, which doubled as a Kids Pasta Project fundraiser for Space to Create Paonia (S2C), also marked the release of the Preliminary Feasibility Report. The study was funded by the Boettcher Foundation and the Department of Local Affairs grants, with support by the Town of Paonia. It included a site visit from the Minnesota-based Artspace team, which in January conducted scoping sessions with local artists, business owners, city officials, funders and others. An event at the Paradise Theatre provided an oppor-

tunity for the public to learn more about the process, offer ideas, and ask questions. Paonia is the third of nine communities to be selected for participation in the initiative. A core group leading the effort includes Paonia town administrator Ken Knight, North Fork Valley Creative Coalition board president Susie Lowe, community volunteer Elaine Brett, Mary Bachran with the Paonia Planning Commission and Blue Sage Center for the Arts, town trustee Barry Pennell, also with the Delta County ENGAGE initiative, and town trustee Karen Budinger. Artspace, a nonprofit real estate development organization creating live/work art spaces across the country since 1979, authored the report. It states that the stars are aligned for Paonia’s parSPACE TO CREATE TO B2

Spring winds bring in dust

Photo by Tamie Meck

The Minnesota Creek area outside of Paonia looked to be getting some rain the evening of April 12, but it was actually dust brought by high winds. The National Weather Service forecasts a slight chance of showers on Friday.

Four new trustees, mayor seated in Hotchkiss BY PAT SUNDERLAND Managing Editor

The bids for replacement of the Barrow Mesa water tank were awarded to two firms at the April 12 meeting of the Hotchkiss Town Council. Earlier this spring, the council rejected the only bid submitted for the project. At the recommendation of town engineer Joann Fagan, the project was broken into two separate elements, piping and the tank itself, and re-advertised. Two firms bid on the tank; four bids were received for piping. Doughty Steel was the low bidder on the tank at $453,704. The bids for piping ranged from $265,367 to $412,849. The project was awarded to the low bidder, Pitt Construction. With two firms involved in the project, communication is key, Fagan said. A pre-construction meeting is scheduled April 23 to coordinate the piping and the tank. Under old business, the council also agreed to cover the cost of insurance for the

Farm to Fiddle Festival. They previously agreed to a donation of no more than $450, but the insurance quote came in at $522.37 — up from $238, based on the number of visitors. All trustees voted to increase the donation to $522.37. Mayor Wendell Koontz opened the meeting with a quote from Theodore Roosevelt, which he said he had been saving for his last meeting as mayor: “It is not the critic who counts; not the man who points out how the strong man stumbles, or where the doer of deeds could have done them better. The credit belongs to the man who is actually in the arena, whose face is marred by dust and sweat and blood; who strives valiantly; who errs, who comes short again and again, because there is no effort without error and shortcoming; but who does actually strive to do the deeds; who knows great enthusiasms, the great devotions; who spends himself in a worthy cause; who at the best knows in

the end the triumph of high achievement, and who at the worst, if he fails, at least fails while daring greatly, so that his place shall never be with those cold and timid souls who neither know victory nor defeat.” After dispensing with old business, including ratification of the town’s updated Master Plan, Koontz and trustees Lindee Cantrell and Tom Wills were recognized for their service to the town. Larry Wilkening, the newlyelected mayor, and trustees Pat Medina, Esther Koontz, Mary Hockenbery and Sheila Maki were sworn into office and seated with fellow trustees John Marta and James Roberts. The council’s first official action was to appoint Marlene Searle as town clerk, Bo Nerlin as town attorney, Lynn French as municipal court judge and Mary Hockenbery as mayor pro-tem. A special events liquor license was approved for a Delta County Democratic Party event at Heritage Hall

on April 21. A street closure was approved for a customer appreciation lunch to be hosted by First State Bank May 11, during the sheep camp dog trials. Other upcoming events include the e-waste recycling event on Saturday, April 21, and cleanup day on Thursday, May 3. At 5 p.m. May 3, a cornerstone ceremony will be held at the Hotchkiss Town Hall, to be followed by a work session to discuss irrigation water, water companies and the town’s supply of water. Elyse Ackerman-Casselbery, the county’s community and economic development director, provided an update on the Delta County Master Plan. “We’re marching to the end,” she said. About a hundred residents participated in three open houses held earlier this month, bringing the number of participants in the conversaton, to date, up to 1,700 over the past year. Although the county is pleased with that number, it’s still only about 1 percent of the county population. Written comments

can still be submitted through April 25. Two new employees were introduced. Mathew Holybee joined the public works crew. Eric McArtour, a longtime Hotchkiss resident, is the fourth member of the Hotchkiss Marshal’s Office. A bid for a new effluent line was awarded to Pitt Construction in the amount of $76,779. Town engineer Fagan noted that in 2015 she estimated the project cost at $95,000, so the bid from Pitt Construction “looks like a good deal.” A DOLA grant will cover 56 percent of the cost; the town will pick up the remainder. Trustees approved funding for Kathy Browning to attend a memorial service in Golden on May 4. The name of Constable Robert G. Lewis will be placed on a wall of fallen officers. Lewis was shot to death in 1898 while performing his duties for the town. Browning assisted Marshal Dan Miller with the research that culminated in the constable’s long overdue recognition.

Crawford tables cemetery water contract BY RANDY SUNDERLAND General Manager

Two new faces and two familiar faces were welcomed to the Crawford Town Council during its regular meeting on Wednesday, April 11. Incumbents Mike Tiedeman and Chris Johnson were the top vote getters in the April 3 municipal election. Joining them on the board are Ralph Clark and Jessica Hart. Outgoing board members Chriss Watters and Jeff Peed were presented certificates of appreciation for their service on the board. The board usually meets the first Wednesday of each

month, but delayed its meeting a week to allow the election results to be certified. The first item the new board addressed was a nonagenda item presented by Gil Saunders. He asked the town to consider a variance to allow the transfer of a water and sewer tap from one location to another. The water and sewer are currently attached to a shop on his property, and he would like to move service to a lot east of their home. This would allow a family member to develop the lot as their residence by placing a trailer on the lot. There were several items which needed clarification, and the matter was tabled to the May 2 meeting. The board was also introduced to the town’s new attorney. David Reed and his associate Sarah Abbott Photos by Randy Sunderland

On behalf of the Town of Crawford, town clerk Cally Gallegos presented certiﬁcates of appreciation to Jeff Peed (left) and Chriss Watters (below) for their service on the town board.

Photo by Randy Sunderland

Crawford town clerk Cally Gallegos administers the oath of ofﬁce to Chris Johnson (left), Jessica Hart and Ralph Clark as they began their terms on the Crawford Town Council on Wednesday, April 11. Mike Tiedemann, who was absent from the meeting, will be sworn in at the May 2 meeting. were on hand to meet the board and to answer any questions. Reed’s firm, J. David Reed, was selected last month to replace Jim Brown, who retired after 40 years as Crawford’s town attorney. Mayor Wanda Gofforth thanked Brown for his years of dedicated service to the town. In other business, Mayor Gofforth presented a revised contract between the town and the Crawford Cemetery District, regarding the use of the town’s shares of water from the Clipper Ditch. Gofforth and Mike Tiedemann had attended a meeting with the cemetery board, and were asked to alter the contract to provide the cemetery district the first right to purchase the water shares if the town ever decides to sell them, and to remove the 10-year term. The town has owned the

water for decades, and has allowed the cemetery district to use it. Ralph Clark objected to not having a time limit on the contract, to allow the town to periodically review the agreement. He pointed out that water might be needed in the future for mitigation as Crawford works on its drainage problem. Chris Johnson added that the town board had just voted to establish the 10-year term at a meeting two months ago. “The council voted on it,” said Johnson, “and then you [Mayor Gofforth] agree to something else at another meeting.” Gofforth responded, “I brought this back to council to consider.” When town staff pointed out the cemetery district has a concern about if the town ever decides to sell the water,

Clark responded, “I’m not against the cemetery district, but we are here to protect the town’s interests.” The discussion ranged back and forth for some time without resolution, so the mayor tabled the matter to the May 2 meeting. The council also held an executive session to discuss a personnel matter. When they reconvened the meeting, the council voted to advertise for applications for a parttime public works position. The intent is to hire one to two part-time employees to replace Al Boyd, who is leaving because of health reasons. Boyd was in the position for four years. Later in the meeting public works director Bruce Bair said, “I want to express a big thank you to Al Boyd . . . He is a great person to work with and I will miss him.”

B2 Wednesday, April 18, 2018

NORTH FORK TIMES

Space to Create FROM PAGE B1 ticipation in Artspace “as evidenced by the participation and strong interest from so many governmental bodies...” The study considered the concept “of a mixed-use project with affordable housing on the upper floors and commercial spaces of a variety of types for the creative sector on the ground floors.” It identifies and defines the types of spaces preferred by focus groups, including live/work housing, maker spaces, public art, teaching, and event and gathering spaces. While a project site will not be selected until later in the process, the top three potential sites, based on location, size, and potential for acquisition, include the former Paonia Middle School/ Technical College of the Rockies building on Second Street, a privatelyowned vacant corner lot at Third and Niagara, and the 3.5-acre “Twin Lakes” lot on Samuel Wade Road (Third Street)

currently owned by the town. The study also identifies the 7,000-square-foot Delta County School District-owned school bus barn at 135 Main Avenue, and smaller downtown lots and buildings including Town Hall, as “scattered sites” for potential projects. The report concludes that prospects for funding from private and public organizations “bodes well for the possibility of support for Space to Create projects in Paonia.” Copies of the report are available at Town Hall. Now that the feasibility study and report are complete, the initiative is moving into phase 2, an online market survey to collect additional information from the public, explained Elaine Brett to the more than 70 attendees at the dinner. “We want to reach out beyond Paonia, beyond Delta County, into the region, to understand the needs for affordable housing and living and work spaces here and

how we can best accommodate.” Coalition Creative board president Susie Kaldis Lowe explained early in the process that the coalition is looking to not only survey the local community, but the community beyond the North Fork area and Delta County. “We want to reach out to Carbondale and Crested Butte, Ridgway, Palisade and Glenwood Springs for input,” said Lowe. The creative coalition anticipates the survey will run about two months and close in June. The NFVCC is involved in other projects, including a partnership to develop a creative corridor connecting Carbondale, Crested Butte, the North Fork area, Ridgway and Salida. Carbondale Tourism and Carbondale Arts have started a conversation with Paonia and other Western Slope creative districts about the creative corridor, said Lowe.

Delta County Independent

‘Cured’ ballots break tie in Paonia voting BY TAMIE MECK Staff Writer

Of the four newly elected and re-elected trustees being sworn in at next Tuesday’s Paonia Town Board meeting, Chelsea Bookout, Mary Bachran and Barry Pennell will begin four-year terms, and Samira Hart will serve a two-year term. Official results from the April 3 election show Bookout received 311 votes, or 18.86 percent of the 1,845 votes, and Bachran received 306 votes (16.59 percent). Unofficial results had Pennell and Hart tied with 232 votes. Delta County Elections Office cured or received three additional ballots prior to the April 13 deadline, giving Pennell 233 votes, or a one-vote lead over Hart. Per town code, at each regular biennial election, three trustees will be elected to serve four-year terms. The candidate receiving the next-highest number of votes will serve a twoyear term. Before newly-elected trustees are sworn in and the new board is seated, the outgoing board will consider a handful of items under “old business.” Among them is the adoption of a resolution setting the base building permit fee for valuations between $1-$500 at a flat $35 (See related story on B3). The board will also consider a request from North Fork Ambulance Association for a modification of its lease with the town on its Paonia station located at 401 Second Street. The request was expected to go before trustees at the April 10 meeting, but was postponed due to scheduling conflicts with the NFAA. The association is seeking to change the lessee from the “North Fork Ambulance Association” to the “North Fork Ambulance District,” should it become a special taxing district in the future (see “NFAA asking for lease amendment” in the April 4 DCI). Also under old business, trustees will consider to adopt changes to the town’s personnel handbook. On April 10 the board discussed changes to several sections of the 46-page handbook and were provided a draft “strike-through” of the changes for review. Trustees will again con-

Hamner to host town hall Rep. Millie Hamner is hosting a community town hall Saturday, April 21, at the CSU Rogers Mesa Research Station, 30624 Highway 92, Hotchkiss. Representatives from the National Young Farmers Coalition and Colorado State University and Julie McCluskie, candidate for state representative, will also be in attendance.

sider proposed changes at a special work session which begins at 5:30 p.m., prior to the April 24 meeting. Some areas of concern include sick leave; paid and personal time off; social media; employee access to personnel files; incorporation of the employee salary table into town policy; voting leave in the age of mailin ballots; and drug testing. Town administrator Knight said that due to the complexity of subjects like drug testing, it’s possible trustees could not reach consensus and would vote to pass the changes on to the new board. Once trustees are sworn in and the new board is seated, among their first duties is the appointment of a mayor pro tem from among the trustees, and appointment of the town clerk, treasurer, attorney and judge. All statutory appointments are for one-year terms, with the exception of the municipal judge, which is a twoyear appointment. Judge Bradley Kolman has held the position the past 23 years. The new board will also have to consider a $1 increase in the base fee for garbage collection in response to a 2017 increase in tipping fees by Delta County Landfill from $28 to $40.78. The current board was prepared to vote on the increase, but had to wait for adoption of an ordinance allowing the town to set costs for garbage

hauling by resolution. At its last full meeting on April 10, the board also: Approved purchase of a 2016 John Deere lawnmower for parks maintenance at a cost of $12,500. The board approved $12,000 for a mower in the 2018 budget, and approved allocation of the additional $500 from the Street Sign Replacement Fund. Trustee Pennell voted against the purchase and the allocation of funds. Gave approval to the Rotary Club of the North Fork Valley to hold its third annual Ducky Derby fundraiser at Apple Valley Park on Sept. 29. Paonia public works director Travis Loberg reported that the town will begin sweeping the streets as early as this week. Loberg apologized for the dust that’s likely to be kicked up by the sweeper due to ongoing dry conditions. The board also recently approved the replacement of Town Hall’s heating and air conditioning unit. Police Chief Neil Ferguson said that in the process of removing the old unit, workers discovered stress fractures in “every element of the old heater that was causing carbon monoxide to leak out as it was coming on.” Had it been discovered prior to the removal of the unit, the town would have been required to shut it down until it was repaired or replaced. “So thank you,” Ferguson told trustees.

Photos by Pat Sunderland

The key to the city

In appreciation for his leadership, outgoing Mayor Wendell Koontz received a key to the city and a hug from deputy clerk Ginger Redden (above. Plaques were also presented to Tom Wills (below left), who served on the Hotchkiss Town Council from 2003-2010 and again from 2014-2018, and was a member of the Hotchkiss Planning Commission from 2003 to 2008. More recently, he’s served as council liaison to the planning commission. Lindee Cantrell (below right), having served on the Hotchkiss Town Council from 2010-2018, was term limited. She also served as council liaison to the planning commission from 2014-2018.

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“Where Beautiful Gardens Begin”

NORTH FORK TIMES

Delta County Independent

Wednesday, April 18, 2018

Paonia to again consider building permit fee Town council also considers changes to building dept. BY TAMIE MECK Staff Writer

At next Tuesday’s board meeting, on April 24, among several agenda items under “old business,” Paonia trustees will consider a draft resolution setting the base fee for building permits at the flat rate of $35 and adjusting the existing fee schedule according to that base fee. Trustees approved the drafting of the resolution by town attorney Bo Nerlin for consideration prior to the seating of a new board at the April 24 meeting. Trustee David Bradford voted against the motion. The building department currently charges a $70 base permit fee for the first $500 of valuation. Trustee Suzanne Watson brought the issue before the board in March. She and Mayor Charles Stewart were on the board at the time the resolution was adopted, which was unanimously approved. The resolution lists the base fee at “35 + formula.” Watson believes the flat $35 base fee was “the intent of the board when this was voted on,” arguing that the formula kicks in at $501 of valuation. Mayor Stewart disagreed, but was unable to produce evidence of the formula that amounts to the additional $35. Trying to figure it out “is just a pointless exercise,” said Stewart. Town administrator Ken Knight said the confusion occurred in 2015 when the resolution was adopted. It lists a building permit base rate was $35 “plus formula.” Then town manager Jane Berry made the decision “to simply set it at $70 because it was $35 plus $7 for each additional $100,” said Knight. Since no permits at that time had been issued for less than $500, she “apparently just said, put down $70” on the new schedule. Knight suggested three options for the board to consider: a base fee of $35; a base fee of $35, plus $7 for each $100 up to $70; and a flat base rate of $70. The board, he said, needs to make a decision based “on what the intent was in 2015.” The remainder of the existing building permit fee schedule is based on a flat base fee of $70, which will be adjusted to the $35 fee in the draft resolution. “It seems to me, for the research that we’ve done, and we’ve done hours, that it should have been $70,” based on staff research, said Knight. He

said he believes it should be set at $35 plus the additional $7 per $100. “I believe that’s where all of the confusion occurred.” Previous town permit fee schedules presented by Watson list a flat base fee with no additional cost per $100. “This is what we used for many years,” said Watson. “Three’s no delineation of a breakdown for fees between $1-$500.” Surrounding governments, including Delta and Hotchkiss, use the same model, said Watson. If the town starts changing the schedule to a different formula, “We’re effectively changing the resolution.” Watson and trustee Bill Bear expressed concern that everyone who paid the $70 base fee on a permit could come back and ask for a refund. That isn’t likely, Knight said. While people can request a refund, under state statute they would have to demonstrate that fees were collected under bad faith. “The fact of the matter is, nobody did anything in bad faith,” said Knight. In considering whether to vote on the issue at the meeting, attorney Nerlin argued against doing so since it was on the agenda as a discussion item, and to allow for more public comment. Watson also suggested some housekeeping changes in the draft resolution. And while her last meeting is on April 24, she said she believes a few other building department issues will need to be discussed by the incoming board, including the oneyear expiration on permits recently approved by the town. Since a renewal fee is also required, “It’s the most expensive building permit on the Western Slope.” Those issues will be passed on to the new board. Also looming before the new board is the issue of the building department itself. The town is considering whether it should be managed in-house, or through contract services. Former City of Delta building inspector Dan Reardon was hired part-time in January after the release for “personnel” matters of former building inspector Dave Coleman. Since releasing Coleman, the town has been unable to find a certified building official and has been hesitant to hire someone and pay for his or her certification. In the interim, the town has contracted with Colorado Code Consulting to provide its building department services, for which Reardon is now a consultant. Under the CCC contract, Reardon is serving as both town building official and building inspector. While permit fees are determined by the fee schedule, building

Photo by Pat Sunderland

Veterans’ art displayed

U.S. Army veteran Brenda Paulson of Paonia created the colorful piece of art pictured above. The Creamery Arts Center in Hotchkiss is featuring the work of area veterans through the end of April.

department services will be charged according to the CCC contract, said Knight, pointing to a footnote to the resolution allowing the town the right to collect the actual cost of using an outside agency if it is higher than what the town charges. For example, CCC charges 65 percent of the valuation of the work under the permit fee for a plan review, which is significantly higher than the town’s current fee of $50 per hour. “Those are costs the town cannot absorb,” said Knight. Watson, who has stated she opposes hiring an outside contractor, said the building department made a $20,000 profit last year. Knight said last year’s total revenue before costs was roughly $40,000 due to construction of the Silver Leaf subdivision on Second Street, which also brought in additional revenue for the water and sewer funds. It was an unusual year, said Knight. “That is much higher than average.” Trustee Chelsea Bookout, who serves on the town finance and personnel committee, has asked for a cost analysis for certifying a building inspector. Knight replied that it’s about $4,300, but that the new hire would remain uncertified for the year it takes to obtain certification. In considering the prospect of providing services in-house, “A town the size of Paonia should be able to get by with one person, if that person has the right experience,” said Knight. A good building department, said Knight, must maintain consistency. “The most important thing is that the department ensures that building standards are met and operates for the health, safety and well-being of the community.” Knight said he anticipates a work session in the near future to discuss whether the town wants to go with long-term contracts or to hire a building inspector. In the meantime, said Knight, the town is accepting applications for a building inspector.

Photo by Tamie Meck

Construction on the 12-unit Silver Leaf cohousing development in Paonia began in 2017, substantially increasing the town’s building fee revenue for the year. The town is contracting out its building department service and will consider this year whether to provide services in-house or through a contractor. In the meantime, applications for a building inspector are being accepted.

B4 Wednesday, April 18, 2018

NORTH FORK TIMES

Delta County Independent

Mock DUI crash planned at Paonia High School On Wednesday, April 25, the North Fork Ambulance will present a biennial training exercise known as the mock DUI crash at Paonia High School beginning at 9 a.m. The North Fork Ambulance coordinates and works in partnership with local agencies including ambulance, fire and law enforcement to educate students about the dangers of distracted and impaired driving under the influence of alcohol and/or drugs. This year additional emphasis will be placed on the dangers of texting while driving. The goal is to create a

memorable impression on the students that how they act behind the wheel of a vehicle has lifelong consequences for them, their passengers and others on the road. The crash scene is set up by emergency personnel and includes wrecked cars, extremely realistic injuries, fake blood and high school students who very passionately act out the many emotions and pain associated with being involved in a DUI crash. As part of the scene, at least one student is “killed” by the crash and the coroner must respond, collect the

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body, and notify their family. This is often the most powerful aspect of the program. Responding agencies include North Fork Ambulance, Colorado State Patrol, Delta County Sheriff ’s Office, Delta Dispatch, Paonia Police Department, Delta County coroner’s office, Delta County School District and CareFlight. The mock DUI crash program is supported entirely by donations and contributions of these local emergency responders who are committed to educating students about the dangers of distracted and impaired driving for themselves and their communities.

Photos by Pat Sunderland

It’s ofﬁcial

Trustees Mary Hockenbery, Sheila Maki, Esther Koontz and Pat Medina take the oath of ofﬁce at the April 12 meeting of the Hotchkiss Town Council. Hockenbery, Koontz and Medina will serve four-year terms; Maki was elected to a two-year term. On the right, deputy town clerk Ginger Redden administers the oath of ofﬁce to Larry Wilkening, the town’s new mayor.

Electronic waste event on April 21 Once a year, each spring, the Hotchkiss Community Chamber of Commerce, with help from the Hotchkiss Lions Club and HHS athletes, hosts an electronic waste drop off event at the fairgrounds parking lot in downtown Hotchkiss. This year the event will be held Saturday, April 21, from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. The following items will be accepted: • Computer equipment: CPUs (towers), monitors, routers, laptops, tablets, iPads, e-readers, etc. • Computer peripherals: Keyboards, mice, speakers, cords, etc. (no CDs, or floppy disks). • Printers: Ink jet, laser, dot matrix — all sizes. • Large office equipment: Copy machines, routers, plotters, multipurpose printers. • Small office equip-

ment: Adding machines, calculators, fax machines, scanners, external hard drives, etc. • Phones: Desk phones, wall phones, cell phones. • Televisions: All sizes and types. • Video players: DVD, VCR, cable boxes, video cables, etc. • Video equipment: Digital cameras, camcorders. • Video game consoles: Gameboy, Nintendo, Play Station, X-box, Wii, etc. • Audio equipment: Receivers, CD players, cassette decks, eighttrack tape players, record players, speakers, MP3 players, iPods, audio cables. • Batteries: Laptop, UPS back up, household (no vehicle batteries). • Small kitchen appliances: Toasters, toaster ovens, microwaves, mixers, blenders, can open-

Paonia plans Arbor Day tree planting The Paonia Tree Board will recognize April 27 as Arbor Day with a tree planting at Apple Valley Park. A sensation box elder will be planted in honor of Clarence “Bill” Hart, a Paonia police officer, veteran and volunteer firefighter who lost his battle with cancer in 2017.

Arbor Day encourages the celebration of the importance of trees and is a first step by tree board in re-establishing “Tree City USA” designation to the town by the National Arbor Day Foundation. The public is invited to attend and refreshments will be provided.

ers, hot pots, electric burners, coffee pots, etc. • Small household appliances: Vacuum cleaners, electric toothbrushes, floor/table lamps, fans, etc. • Electronic/electric toys. •. Handheld power tools: Circular saws, sanders, drills, electric screwdrivers, nail guns, etc. Most items powered by a cord or batteries will be

accepted, with just a few exceptions: • Nothing with refrigerants (refrigerators, freezers, air conditioning units). • No stoves, dishwashers, water heaters or other major appliances. • No automotive batteries. Anyone with questions about this event is encouraged to call organizer Nathan Sponseller at 970-589-2903.

Crawford resident is in federal custody PRESS RELEASE

In August 2017, the Delta County Sheriff ’s Office opened an investigation into Richard Taylor, 49, for failing to register as a sex offender and being a convicted felon in possession of weapons. The case was filed with the Seventh Judicial District Attorney’s Office. In February 2018, another investigation was opened on Taylor for two additional counts of possession of firearms. This case was also filed with the DA’s office. It was also believed at this time

that Taylor was traveling and living between Delta County and the Denver area. The Bureau of Alcohol Tobacco and Firearms (ATF) was contacted and agreed to assume these cases. On April 13, the Delta County Sheriff ’s Office assisted ATF execute search and arrest warrants for Taylor and his residence of 43142 Needle Rock Road in Crawford. Taylor was taken into federal custody and additional firearms and ammunition were seized.

Author will speak at Paonia Library BY TRACY IHNOT

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Delta County Libraries

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ACADEMIC Cele brating stu dents with a cade mic excellence!

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At 6 p.m. Tuesday, April 24, Grand Junction author K. L. McKee visits Paonia Library to speak about her novels and read from her 2018 book “Worth Waiting For.” The first book in a new series, “Worth Waiting For” is set in the fictional town of North Fork. According to the book cover, “Worth Waiting For” is a journey that takes two lovers from the turbulent sixties to the healing eighties, as they deal with their loyalty to the past, their love for each other, and the lure of a future together.” McKee was born and raised in Paonia and her roots run deep in the area. Her mother was born in Eckert, her father in Crawford, and she married a man native to Paonia. McKee saw the North Fork Valley as a

K.L. McKee fitting setting for her new series. McKee holds a BA in English from Regis University and retired from Mesa County Library after 29 years to pursue fulltime writing. She is also the author of “Miracle,” a novella and “In Name Only.” For more information about this event, contact the Paonia Library at 3997881 or visit the online calendar at www.deltalibraries.org.

Gala concert and reception at Blue Sage ��

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The Blue Sage Concert Series will present a gala concert and champagne reception featuring violinist Midori and pianist Özgür Aydin on Friday, April 20. The reception begins at 6:30 p.m., followed by the concert at 7:30. There will be a meet and greet with the artists immediately following the concert. Midori is regarded as one of the most legendary violinists alive today. In addition to performing at the highest levels interna-

tionally, she is recognized by the United Nations and World Economic Forum for her exceptional commitment to education and community engagement throughout the U.S., Europe, and Asia. Tickets, which are $95 and $55, are currently sold out for this show. Email or call the Blue Sage if you have tickets you will not use, or wish to donate back to the Blue Sage. The email address is classical@bluesage.org; the phone is (970) 5277243.

SPORTS

Delta County Independent

SPORTS April 18, 2018

Wednesday, April 18, 2018

www.deltacountyindependent.com

CHSAA considering dropping medley relay BY TAMIE MECK DCI Sports Writer

Could the 800-meter sprint medley relay be on its last leg? Traditionally a girls’ relay, the sprint medley has been a state track event for decades. Until 1979, it was run as the 880-yard medley relay. Unlike the other relays — the 4x100, 4x200, 4x400 and 4x800 — the medley opens with two 100-meter legs, followed by a 200 leg and a 400 leg. Because the boys don’t run a medley at state, the girls currently compete in 18 state events, and boys in 17 events. In fairness, the Colorado High School Athletic Association’s Legislative Council is considering cutting the medley from state competition in order to even out the numbers. In an email from CHSAA assistant commissioner Bert Borgmann, “The CHSAA track and field advisory committee voted unanimously” to eliminate it. The “issue of parity arose in 1999 when girls’ pole vault was added to the state meet.” At the time, wrote Borgmann, there was no move to add a boys’ medley. In addition, The National Federation of High School Associations (NFHS) lists 19 girls’ events, including javelin and pole vault, but no medley, in its record book, “...because of the lack of states that actually run the race.” But a lot of coaches want to keep the medley. Olathe head track coach Jerry Hollingshead is working with longtime Ouray head coach Bernie Pierce and others to add a boys’ race to the state meet. He calls the medley his “favorite relay.” In looking at the issue of inequality, “Why not just have a guys race. It would take care of all of that.” But not everyone agrees. “A lot of coaches I’ve talked to don’t like it,” said Paonia head coach Brian Mitchem, who favors keeping the medley. “For me, that’s four more kids I can get into an event.” The Paonia girls have won the last five 2A state titles under Mitchem and consistently field a medley team. He recalled a Colorado High School Coaches Association (CHSCA) meeting he attended a couple of years ago with Cedaredge head coach Kirby Henderson, when the subject came up

during a roundtable discussion. A lot of coaches there, especially coaches from bigger schools, expressed dislike for the medley. Unlike the other relays, where all four team members run the same distance, the 400 is the key to a good medley says Mitchem. For smaller schools, which have smaller pools of athletes to choose from, the best sprinters are often tied up in individual events and other relays. A “superior” 400 runner, like Paonia alumna Brianna VanVleet, who now runs at Idaho State, Hotchkiss junior Kaiya Firor, the 2017 state champion, and Hotchkiss alumna Jenni Celis, who has held the 2A state meet record in the 400 since 2013, can easily make up for time lost in the sprints. “That changes the race,” he said. But some teams will use a strong 400 runner to qualify a medley team for state, then replace the 400 runner with a slower competitor. For that and other reasons, he suspects, some coaches, especially at bigger schools, don’t care for the medley. But for many small schools, it may be the only event some athletes will ever run at state. And for some, it adds to the rare experience of competing at state. Delta sophomore Remi Baldwin, a 100 runner in the medley, said at last Friday’s Delta Twilight meet that she enjoys the medley and first ran it in seventh grade. She started out running the 400, but later switched to running a 100 leg. With Delta’s medley team poised to compete at state, she has a chance to compete in the maximum four state events. Without the medley “I couldn’t qualify in four events. “Why don’t they give that same chance to the boys?” she asks. “That doesn’t make sense.” A handful of meets throughout the season, including the Hotchkiss invitational, offer a boys’ medley. This year, Hotchkiss ran two medley teams at its home meet. “I enjoy it,” said Hotchkiss sprinter George Arroyo. He would like to see a boys’ medley at state. “I think it’s a lot of fun having three distances all in one relay,” he said. “It’s not even a state qualifying event and I

enjoy running it.” When he heard the relay might be canceled, he was surprised. “I would much rather see a boys’ (medley) than have them take off a girls’ medley,” he said. Running it at meets “would be even better if it was a state-qualifying event.” And if it becomes a state-qualifying event, “I think there’d be a lot more teams running it.” Cedaredge always puts together a boys’ medley team when it’s offered, said Kirby Henderson. He ran track at Hotchkiss and Western State College (now Western Colorado State University) and has coached at Cedaredge since 1997. “I’m of the opinion that we need to do what’s best for the kids,” said Henderson. That means adding a boys’ medley. While some schools don’t put much energy into the medley, at Olathe, Hollingshead has sent a medley team to state 26 of the last 28 years. He calls the move to eliminate it “ridiculous.” For small schools in particular, it’s not easy to put together four good sprinters for the other relays, but it’s easy to put together a medley team, he said. For smaller schools, he said, the medley can mean that four more athletes get to experience state competition. Considering the 18 teams, four divisions and four athletes per medley that currently compete at state, removing it would affect 288 kids, he says. State meets run for three days, and the medley races take a total of one hour and 15 minutes. Adding that much time to the three-day meet, he argues, won’t have much of an effect on the meet. “Rather than cutting out those 288 kids from the meet I would like to see another 288 kids get a chance to participate,” he wrote in a letter to CHSAA assistant commissioner Jenn RobertsUhlig and the track and field committee. That would positively affect a potential 576 students. The CHSAA council will vote to remove the medley from the state meet at its April 26 meeting. The change would go into effect in 2019. Removing the item from the agenda would require a two-thirds majority vote. Interested parties will be allowed to speak at the meeting.

Photo by Tamie Meck

Delta freshman Jada Lannon edges out Cedaredge junior Courtney Freeman at the ﬁnish line to secure a team win for Delta in the 3200m relay by a mere 5-100ths of a second Friday at last week’s Delta Twilight Invitational. The two runners were a full 200 meters ahead of the pack when they crossed the ﬁnish line.

Photo by Tamie Meck

Delta’s Kole Granger and a Coal Ridge runner come out of the blocks in the 800m sprint medley relay at Hotchkiss last March. CHSAA is considering eliminating the traditionally all-girls relay from state track meets in order to balance out the number of state events for girls and boys. Proponents of the relay are asking CHSAA to balance the number by adding a boys’ medley to the state meet.

Delta Twilight meet first of kind in years BY TAMIE MECK DCI Sports Writer

Despite a forecast of winter-like weather and high winds, last Friday was almost perfect for the Delta Twilight track meet. The tiny “quad” twilight meet, which began at 3 p.m., was the first of its kind for the area since the days of the annual Delta County meets. Those ended sometime in the 1990s when the requirements for state qualification began to change. Friday’s meet was open only to the four Delta County teams and Olathe. Paonia, which had already committed to Saturday’s Glenwood Demon Invitational, had to decline the invitation. That the meet was

held on Friday is also different. Most meets throughout the season are held on Saturday and begin early in the morning, said Whittington. It was also a state qualifying meet. Delta head coach Ryan Whittington said the school decided to host the meet after the Colorado High School Activities Association made the change to lower the minimum number of teams needed for a state-qualifying meet from six teams to four. The change went into effect this year. Between intermittent gusts of wind and a few clouds, the sun was out, and everyone seemed to be having a good time. High winds blew the high jump bar down a time

or two. Delta sophomore Remi Baldwin said after winning the 100-meter hurdles that on one of the final hurdles, the wind caught her and almost lifted her up. “Like I had wings,” said Baldwin. The high jump bar blew down a time or two, and Hotchkiss high jumper Jake Stucker, one of two jumpers to qualify for finals, was hit by a head wind and pelted by a cloud of sand on one of his final attempts. “Other than being windy, it’s going pretty smooth,” said Whittington. It also goes by quickly, said Whittington. “Not many flights or teams.” Most of the field events ran two flights, and TWILIGHT TO B6

Photo by Tamie Meck

Delta’s John Ames prepares to hand off to Logan Freed in the 3200-meter relay at Delta. Ames, Freed, Jacob Wear and Shad Lewis won the event with a time of 8:56.34. Delta, Cedaredge, Olathe and Hotchkiss participated in the Delta Twilight on April 13, which was a throwback to similar meets often held in the late 1990s.

B6 Wednesday, April 18, 2018

SPORTS

Delta County Independent

Eagles hand Delta a loss BY WAYNE CRICK DCI Sports Editor

Delta High School’s baseball fortunes included a pair of wins and a loss last week. Wins came against Olathe (0-3 and 1-10 in 3A WSL) and Hotchkiss (2-0 and 9-1 in 2A District 3/5). The Panthers loss came at the hands of 2A Paonia (3-0 and 10-0). Delta 15, Olathe 1 Delta’s visit to Olathe April 10 was a five-inning affair which ended in five innings. The Panthers scored a lone run in the first inning and added three more runs in the second frame for a 4-0 lead. Six runs in the fourth inning built Delta’s lead to 10-0 before a five-run fifth gave the Panthers a 15-0 lead with Olathe coming to bat. The Pirates tallied just one run in the frame ending the game on the 10-run rule, 15-1. Dylan Hollenbeck had two hits, including a double, and knocked in three runs to lead the Panthers’ offense. Jaspar Carmichael was also 2-3 with four runs scored and two RBIs. Nolan Bynum drove in two runs on two hits with Delta collecting nine hits in the game. Delta’s 15 runs were not all clean runs as the Pirates committed seven errors in the game. Olathe’s lone run came off Hollenbeck in the fifth inning on a home run to spoil a no-hit effort. Hollenbeck worked five innings and gave up two walks and struck out nine Olathe batters. Delta 19, Hotchkiss 6 A seven-run first inning was enough to earn the win for Delta, but the Bulldogs had no intentions of letting that happen without putting up a fight.

Two runs from Hotchkiss in both the second and third innings narrowed the Panthers’ lead to 7-4 heading to the top of the fourth. An eight-run burst from Delta bounced the lead to 15-4 in the top of the fourth. Hotchkiss failed to score in the bottom of the inning sending the game to the fifth inning. Delta tacked on another four runs in the top half of the fifth and the Bulldogs countered with two runs in their half of the frame to make the final score 19-6. Jaspar Carmichael cranked out a 4-5 day at the plate, including a double, scored two times and had three RBIs. To add to his game accolades, Carmichael was also the winning pitcher with five innings of work, allowed six hits, six runs (four earned) and struck out 10 Bulldog batters. Hollenbeck also drove in three runs on a home run and scored twice himself. Bynum had an RBI on a pair of doubles with Rowyn Carmichael duplicating his feat. Josh Reeder was Delta’s fourth multiple player with a 24 performance and scored three times. Marvin Guereque was Hotchkiss’ leading hitter with two hits (including a double) in two at bats with two RBIs. Chase Hiatt generated two runs on a 1-3 day at the plate for the Bulldogs. Paonia 14, Delta 5 A closely contested game through five innings had fans on both sides of the diamond wondering how this contest might end. Paonia scored the game’s first run off a double by Soul Connolly, who scored later in the second

inning. Delta plated the tying run in the bottom of the inning when Hollenbeck, who had reached base after being hit by a pitch, scored on a fielder’s choice off the bat of first baseman KC Carlson. Jaden Miller reached base in the third inning after drawing a walk and later scored on an Anders Schopp single. Grey Neal reached on a fielder’s choice and scored on Connolly’s double giving the Eagles a 3-1 lead going to the fourth inning. Delta had two base runners in the fourth on singles from Hollenbeck and Kolby Keller and both would score to tie the game at 3-3. Neal reached base on an error in the top of the fifth with two outs and Connolly stroked a single to drive in Neal giving Paonia a 4-3 lead. Shortstop Jaspar Carmichael’s play behind second base ended further scoring threats from the Eagles on an off-balanced throw to first for the final out. A pitching change for Delta in the sixth inning had junior Clayton Abila replacing senior Drake Horn. A single and an error allowed a run to score before Abila got Slater Podgorny to fly out to Matt Easter in right field for the second out. After that Kayden Seriani hit a single and Miller reached base on another error which eventually led to three more runs in a five-run sixth for Paonia. Delta threatened to score in the bottom of the sixth with Reeder and Keller reaching base on singles before Seriani ended the threat with his eighth and ninth strikeouts of the game. Five more runs in the

top of the seventh came on five hits, with doubles by Derek Holt and Podgorny, and one Delta error. The Panthers scored twice in the bottom of the seventh after Easter reached base on an error and Jaspar Carmichael hit a double. Both players scored to make the final tally 14-5. Connolly’s four-hit day produced two doubles and five RBIs for the Eagles. Schopp was 3-5 with three RBIs and David Lozano collected four hits in four at bats for two RBIs. Miller had one hit, scored three times and had two RBIs. The Eagles finished with 15 hits in the game. Dating back to last season, Paonia is 35-0 and ranked first in 2A Distrit 3/5 and Class 2A. Delta’s leading hitters were Keller (3-3, 1 RBI) and Jaspar Carmichael (2-4, with a double). Delta is listed first in 3A WSL standings (40 and 7-6) with Aspen second (4-0 and 8-2) and Cedaredge third (2-1 and 7-4). The Panthers played Cedaredge April 17 and will host Rifle (4-4 and 6-8 4A WSL) on April 18 at 3 p.m. Delta ends the week with a game in Craig on Friday, April 20, at 4 p.m. instead of on the originally scheduled April 21 date. The Moffat County game was moved up a day so those wishing to attend the Cole Lahoe funeral could do so. Cole Lahoe Benefit Saturday’s (April 18) contest with Rifle will have a pre-game Team Cole Dedication ceremony. All proceeds from the gate, and other donations, will go toward supporting the Lahoe family and Leukemia Awareness.

Photo by Wayne Crick

Delta second baseman Rowyn Carmichael watches as Paonia’s Slater tries to hold on to a corner of the bag as he slides past it. Carmichael was able to get turned around and apply the tag for an out before Podgorny could scramble back to safety.

Bulldogs earn pair of wins BY TAMIE MECK DCI Sports Writer

Hotchkiss High School moved closer to another 2A District 3/5 showdown with Paonia after a pair of wins against Dolores and Ignacio in doubleheader play in Ignacio. Hotchkiss defeated Dolores 14-0 in game one and routed Ignacio 15-0 in game two. ‘Dogs 14, Dolores 4 Against Dolores, Jamison Yanish was 2 for 2 with two RBIs and a sacrifice fly. Chase Hiatt had three RBIs and averaged .333. Eli Kirk was 1 for 2 with two RBIs and a triple, and Presley Pene was 2 for 4 with a triple. Jonathan Gonzalez and Kirk each had two stolen bases, and Brian Gonzalez and Hiatt each stole a base. Pene pitched 4.1 innings, allowing five hits and three earned runs, walking four and striking out four. ‘Dogs 15, Bobcats 0

Against Ignacio, Devin Curtis averaged 1.000 at the plate with 2 RBIs and hit his first homer of the season. Hunter Bryant, Hiatt, Jesus Macias and Marvin Geureque all batted 1.000, and Jonathan Gonzalez was 2-5 with 3 RBIs and a double. The Bulldogs scored their 15 runs on 14 hits with no errors. They scored five runs in the second inning, two in the fourth and two in the fifth to lead, 9-0. In the sixth they put six runs on the board for the win. Jonathan Gonzalez allowed one hit and threw 14 Ks in six innings. Catcher Presley Pene had 14 putouts on 14 total chances with no errors. Hotchkiss was 91 overall heading into Tuesday’s make-up doubleheader at Meeker (63, 2-0). It hosts a DH against Rangely (1-11, 0-3) Saturday at Burns Drake Field. Game times are 11 a.m. and 1 p.m.

Photo by Tamie Meck

Jonathan Gonzalez pitches against Riﬂe on March 14. This past Saturday, Gonzalez allowed just one hit and struck out 14 Bears in six innings in the Bulldogs’ 15-0 conference win against Ignacio’s Bobcats in Ignacio.

Twilight CONTINUED FROM B5 almost all of the foot races ran one or two heats; most relays ran one heat. Don French called it a “really nice little meet.” French and wife Beth are certified track officials and have been to a lot of meets. He credits athletic director Jeremy McCormick and Coach Whittington for putting it all together. One thing he really likes, said French, is that it is a small meet. With fewer athletes competing, the meet gives those who might normally struggle to place against bigger schools and at multi-team meets a chance to medal, or even get a win. While it’s a small meet, it’s also very competitive, because Delta County

schools are very competitive, said Whittington. He’d like to see more meets take on this format in the future. Until now, teams compete almost every Saturday throughout the season, and meets always start early in the morning. That means the season cuts into a lot of weekends, said Whittington. “I think you’d get a lot more kids out (for track) if you’re not having to go every Saturday, every weekend. If you can get two or three of these every year, I think it would help and kids would like it.” Whittington said he hopes athletes enjoy it. “And hopefully we’ll get some good feedback from coaches, but I think they all kind of like it.”

SPORTS

Delta County Independent

Wednesday, April 18, 2018

Paonia controls 2A foes Dolores, Ignacio BY TAMIE MECK DCI Sports Writer

North Fork baseball teams cleaned up on Saturday at Ignacio, dominating 2A District 5 teams Dolores and Ignacio. Paonia slipped past Dolores 14-2 in its first game and then shutout host Ignacio 17-0 in game two. Hotchkiss also defeated the two 2A District 3/5 teams (see related story). Paonia 14, Dolores 2 Jaden Miller was awarded the win in Paonia’s conference game against Dolores (3-9, 24). Miller struck out 16, and allowed four hits, two runs and one earned run in six innings. The Eagles hit only singles and doubles for the game, and earned all of their 14 runs. Anders Schopp averaged .800 with two RBIs and a double. Miller batted .600 and had two earned runs and two 2B.

Kayden Seriani was 2 for 5 and led in RBIs with five. Podgorny was 2 for 3 and made four of the team’s 14 earned runs. Paonia succeeded on all seven stolen base attempts, led by Slater Podgorny, who also leads the team in stolen bases. The Bears scored their runs in the second inning to trail, 5-2. Paonia broke open the game in the seventh with seven runs. Paonia 17, Ignacio 0 Schopp was awarded the win in Paonia’s conference game against Ignacio. The senior allowed two hits, walked three and struck out four in three innings for an OBP of 1.667. At the plate, Clay Campbell was 1 for 1 with one RBI, Soul Connolly was 2 for 3, Miller averaged .667 with two RBI and a double, and Seriani was 1 for 2 with three RBIs and a home run. In Class 2A, Seriani

leads in HRs with seven. Paonia was 9 for 9 in stolen base attempts, with Miller and Seriani each stealing two. Samuel Erickson, Grey Neal, David Lozano, Campbell and Podgorny also had stolen bases. The Eagles were 100 heading into Tuesday night’s home game against Grand Junction. (You may remember that last year the Eagles surprised the 5A Tigers with a come-back, 7-5 win at Grand Junction.) They face Moffat County (Craig) today (Wednesday, April 18) at Canyon View Park in Grand Junction, and host a DH against Meeker at 11 a.m. and 1 p.m. Saturday at Volunteer Park. Paonia also picked up a doubleheader to make up for early-season cancellations, and will end the season on May 4 with a DH against 6-4 Sanford, at Gunnison.

Paonia tracksters have PR days at Glenwood BY TAMIE MECK DCI Sports Writer

While the Paonia track teams didn’t score a lot of points at Saturday’s Demon Invitational track meet at Glenwood Springs — the girls placed seventh with 48 points and the boys finished 11th with 16 points at the 19team meet — multiple Paonia athletes set personal best times, heights and distances. Among those personal records (PRs), a handful of athletes hit state-qualifying marks. Cyrus Malek-Madani hit state qualifying marks in both shot put and discus. His second-place mark 137 feet, 4 inches in the discus was his best for the season and his fouryear career, improving on his old PR by almost 10 feet. Malek-Madani also placed fourth in the shot put with a PR of 42 feet, putting him in the top 10 in state. In terms of finishing the season with a state qualification, “He’s pretty safe at 42 feet,” said head coach Brian Mitchem. Junior Harley Ewert placed fourth in the 800meter run with a time of 2:04.97, improving on

his previous best time by almost six seconds. It also puts him in the top 10 in state standings. “We’d been waiting for it,” said Mitchem of Ewert’s statequalifying run. “He just had to get the right meet to make it happen.” Also impressive, said Mitchem, is sophomore Logan Green’s ninthplace in the 800 with a PR of 2:10.29. Ethan Bartlett shaved 15.5 seconds off of his 3200 time to finish in the top 10 with a time of 11:08.71. Ben O’Rourke took 21.6 seconds off his previous best to finish 12th out of 33 runners. In women’s competition, sophomore Lyla Hayutin-Baril cleared the bar at a state-qualifying 5 feet to place third in the high jump. She cleared 4-9 earlier in the year, said Mitchem. With each 1-inch increment the bar was raised, she kept clearing it. Once she cleared 4-11, “We were really excited.” Senior Mckenna Palmer placed in three individual events. In the triple jump she passed the 35-foot mark for the first time since 2016, hitting a winning mark of 35-6.5. Palmer also won silver in the long jump

with a season-best mark of 16 feet, 2.5 inches. She also placed sixth in the 100 hurdles. Due to the wind assists, the marks won’t count toward her state qualification, said Mitchem. Fortunately, she was ranked first in the state in the triple and second in the long jump heading into the meet. Sabrina Leighton hit a PR mark of 34-10.25 to place third in the shot put. Leighton was already qualified for state, noted Mitchem, but this moves her up in standing. Brooke Hillman placed fifth and was the highest Class 2A placer at Glenwood with a time of 2:33.2. Alexandra Eaton and Randi Rapke finished seventh and eighth in the 300 hurdles. The 800 relay team finished third in a season best time of 1:54.69, fourth in the 800 sprint medley relay in a season-best 1:59.92. The 3200 team placed sixth (11:44.71). The weather was very cold in the morning, which affected times for the sprinters, said Mitchem. Everything changed after it warmed up, and the kids had a great day. “It’s a very well-run meet,” he said.

Bruin girls depth too much at Delta Twilight BY TAMIE MECK DCI Sports Writer

Of the four girls teams at the Delta Twilight Invitational, Cedaredge had 31 top-three placers and won eight events to take first with 111 points, followed by Delta with 90

Photo by Tamie Meck

Merielle Comerer of Cedaredge and Jessica Dexter of Delta dig deep in the ﬁnal meters of the 1600m run to ﬁnish second and third, respectively.

points. Olathe finished third with 32 points, and Hotchkiss placed fourth with 31 points. Cedaredge Girls Cedaredge throwers swept the discus at Delta, led by Katie Hyke’s first-place throw of 110 feet, 11 inches. Grace Andrews placed second with a throw of 109-11, and Holly Jenkins placed third at 97-2. Hyke also won the shot put with a throw of 34-9.5, Dalia Alejandre placed fourth and Hannah Gardner finished fifth. The Bruins also swept the 3200 run, led by Hannah Hatheway’s firstplace time of 13:50.78. Merielle Comerer finished second and Briar Wagner placed third. Kammie Henderson cleared 4-8 to win the high jump. In the triple jump, Makayla Kehmeier took first on a mark of 29-9.5 and Shannon Goff placed second with a mark of 28-11. Kimmy Millholland won the 100-meter dash with a time of 14.48 seconds, with Jeanene Williams and Brooke Hogan finishing third and fifth, respectively. Camie Baldozier won the 800 in 2:38.17, and Kylin Mitchell won the 1600 in

6:21.49. In the 100 hurdles, Baylee Harris took second in 18:34 and Aspen Furubotten placed third (18.59). Delta Girls Delta placed in the top three in 17 events at its home meet, winning four individual events and three of five relays. In relays, the 800meter team of Katalina Rodriguez, Remi Baldwin, Kaley St. Peter and Marcy Schaal won with a time of 1:53.72; the 1600 team of Rodriguez, Jessica Dexter, Schaal and Tayler Huntley posted a winning time of 4:26.89; and the 3200 team of Rodriguez, Dexter, Hannah Sterns and Jada Lannon finished out in front with a time of 11:07.01. Schaal, a freshman, won the 200 in 28.5, and Kendall Somers placed third (30.37). In the 400, Huntley won with a time of 1:05.23, and Rodriguez placed third (1:06.21). Baldwin won the 100meter hurdles in 17.72, and took silver in the 300 hurdles in 52.61. St. Peter soared 16 feet, 4.5 inches to win the long jump, and Madison Gieck cleared 14-6.5 to place third. In shot put, BRUIN GIRLS TO B8

Photo by Tamie Meck

Paonia’s Kayden Seriani (background with helmet) is congratulated after hitting a home run against Dolores on March 31. Seriani leads Class 2A in home runs with seven.

CHS solid at Gunnison BY TAMIE MECK DCI Sports Writer

At Saturday’s Western State Combined Invitational at Gunnison, the Cedaredge boys finished third overall with 101 points, behind Salida with 135 point and winner Gunnison’s 165 points. The Cedaredge girls took second with 141 points, behind Buena Vista with 179 points. Head coach Kirby Henderson described the 10team, mostly 2A/3A meet as a “confidence booster” for his athletes. Henderson decided to skip the relays and give athletes more time to focus on individual events. They also didn’t have to spend the better part of the day warming up for their next race. Ty Grant had a big day, winning the 100-meter dash in a wind-assisted personal best time of 11.14 seconds, and picking up another win in the 200 with a time of 22.45 seconds. Grant also placed fourth in the long jump. Danny Mendoza won the 110m hurdles in a personal best 16.48, and won the 300m hurdles in 42.88 seconds. In the discus, freshman Jake Kuemmerlin won silver, hitting a personal best mark of 97 feet, 8.5 inches, and Kaleb Berardi took third with a throw of 93-1; in shot put, Berardi took second (36-10) and Kuemmerlin placed fourth (34-05). Freshman Alex Barron’s mark of 19-.05 in the long jump garnered a silver medal. Among other placers, Sawyer Carey finished sixth in long jump, Andrew Richardson placed sixth in triple jump, and Cris Alejandre finished seventh in the triple jump. In girls’ competition, Cedaredge throwers had a great day at Gunnison. Grace Andrews won the shot put with a throw of 32 feet. Dalia Alejandre’s mark of 30 feet gave her a third place finish, and Hannah Gardner finished fifth. In discus, Holly Jenkins won with a throw of 100-1.5 and Gardner placed third at 78 feet. In high jump, Kammie Henderson finished in a three-way tie for first at 4-feet, 8 inches and Hannah Carlson and Makayla Kehmeier tied for sixth at 4-2. Reganne McIntire earned silver in the 200meter dash with a time of 28.37. Aspen Furubotten took second in the 100 hurdles in 17.88 seconds and third in the 300 hurdles (53.87). In long jump, Baylee Harris took second with a mark of 147.5 and Sophie Andrews took third (13-8.75). Kehmeier’s mark of 29-11 earned her a silver in the triple jump, and Courtney Freeman finished third in the 400 (1:05.82). Also scoring points, Makaylie Reed placed fifth in the 100m, and Kimmie Millholland placed sixth. In the 200, Hannah Carlson placed fifth and Ellison Black

was seventh. In the 400, sisters Hannah and Grace Hatheway finished fourth and fifth, respectively. In 100 hurdles, Harris finished fourth and Taelor Mills placed sixth. And in the long jump, Carlson placed fourth. The day included the college-level Western Mountaineer Bowl, giving high school athletes an opportunity to watch athletes from Western State and Colorado Mesa University in competition. Henderson said the meet was also different in that the fastest heats ran first, and the boys events were held before the girls

events. While it was a beautiful, cool day, it was also windy, said Henderson, and that affected some performances. Grant’s time in the 200 was almost three-10ths of a second ahead of his previous best time. Because of the wind, the time won’t count toward his state qualification. “That’s unfortunate,” said Henderson. But fortunately, Grant is already ranked first in state in both the 200 and 100. Cedaredge travels Friday to New Castle for the annual Coal Ridge track and field meet.

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B8 Wednesday, April 18, 2018

SPORTS

Delta County Independent

Hotchkiss boys best in Delta BY TAMIE MECK DCI Sports Writer

At Friday’s four-team Delta Twilight track and field meet, Hotchkiss scored 83 points and won six events to win the meet. Delta was second with 76 points, Cedaredge third with 60, and Olathe finished fourth with 27. Hotchkiss Boys The Hotchkiss boys won five events and had 17 top-three finishes at Delta. Elijah Patrick won the triple jump with a distance of 37 feet, 5.5 inches. In high jump, Patrick and teammate Jacob Stucker took first and second, respectively with Patrick clearing 6-2 for the win. Sam Rodriguez won the 800 in 2:08.31, and

took third in the 400. Jace Peebles won the 110 hurdles in 17.70, Colton Peebles took silver in the 200 (25.17), and Nick Jung finished third in the 1600. Cochran also finished third in the 800 (2:11.9), and Oliver Mendoza took third in the long jump (18-3.25). In relays, Jung, Myles Zoutte, Will Ela and Saul Cortez placed second in the 3200m relay (9:45.75); George Arroyo, Robert Cochran, Oliver Mendoza and Jace Peebles placed third in the 400 relay; Arroyo, Cesar Camacho, Cortez and Malykai Klaseen placed third in the 800 relay; and Rodriguez, Zoutte, Klaseen and Cortez finished third in the 1600 relay. In throwing events,

team of Andrew Toole, Jack Jones, Carson Roithmayr and Enrique Gonzalez won in 3:42.54. Winning silver were Dah Wah in the long jump (18-4.25), Cameron Schaal in the shot put (40-2), and Jesse Phillips in the 110 hurdles. Those Panthers winning bronze were Wah in the 100meter dash (12.43), Kole Granger in the 200m (25.75), Colton Galvin in the 300m hurdles (50.60), Kula Moo in the triple jump (36-0), and Logan Church in the shot put (39-4). Cedaredge Boys Cedaredge, which split the weekend in Delta and at Saturday’s Western State Invitational at Gunnison, enjoyed a strong showing Friday. Wyatt Camp won the 100 in 12.15, the 800m relay team took first with a

Spano finished third, and in the 800-meter run, Gaub and Tamayo placed second and third.

Ty Grant signs to run track for Mavericks

Bruin girls CONTINUED FROM B7 Reagan Clay took silver with a throw of 33-7.5, and Keely Porter placed third with a throw of 3211. Sterns also won silver in the high jump (4-8), and Dexter placed third in the 1600 (6:25.24). Olathe Girls The Pirates took second in three relays, including the 400- (54.52), 800- (1:55.84), and 1600meter relay (4:28.76). Mariah Garcia took second in the long jump with a mark of 14-9.75. Placing third were Karsen Henwood in the 300m hurdles (57.96) and the 3200 relay team. Hotchkiss Girls The Hotchkiss girls won three events, led by Kaiya Firor’s first place time of 48.87 seconds in the 300m hurdles. The 400 meter relay team also took first. The 800-meter sprint medley team of Yasmine Gaub, Jordan Tamayo, Elsie Vasquez and Firor won gold with a time of

1:58.6. The 1600 relay team of Morgan Miller, Tamayo, Vasquez and Isabella

3200m relay team placed third (9:17.19).

Darrin Young won the shot put with a throw of 46-5.5 and placed second in discus with a throw of 125-2. Nolan Egging placed third. Delta Boys The Delta boys won seven events on their home turf. Among the top placers, Hezekiah Huff won the 200-meter dash in 24.27, Jacob Wear won the 400 in 52.71, John Ames finished the 1600 in 4:56.11 for the win, Logan Freed cleared the 300 hurdles in 43.92 for the win, and Cameron Schaal threw the discus 128 feet, 2 inches for the win. In relays, the 1600meter team of Ames, Wear, Huff and Ed doh Htoo won with a time of 8:56.34; and the 3200

Photo courtesy JH

Delta’s Tawny Roberts (5) fends off a Vail Mountain Gore Ranger defender and takes control of the ball during soccer action played on April 12 at Delta High School. Vail Mounain outscored the Panthers 3-2 in the second half to earn the win.

Senior Ty Grant signed a letter of intent to participate in the Colorado Mesa University’s track program on April 11. Cedaredge High School’s student body gathered to watch the signing ceremonies with Athletic Director Brandon Milholland reading a brief statement on behalf of Grant’s achievements at CHS. Milholland’s statement noted there had been seven student-athletes who have signed letters of intent to play collegiate athletics. That number is actually less than one percent of all the athletes who have participated in high school sports at CHS over the past six years. Nationwide, it is only 1.6 percent of student-athletes who are given the opportunity to play at the college level. “Ty has been a great athlete in his four years at CHS and is also a good student and an even better human being,” noted Milholland. Grant has attended state track meets four times with 11 medals to his credit, including a

time of 1:34.8, and Sawyer Carey soared 19 feet, one-half inch to win the long jump. Josh Deal’s mark of 35-5 in the triple jump garnered a silver medal. Other silver medalists for Cedaredge include Ty Grant in the 400 (52.97), Tevin Keller in the 800 (2:11.09), Isaac Vader in the 1600 (5:25.42), Blake Gash in the 300 hurdles (48.09), and the 400 relay and 3200 relay teams. Olathe Boys The Olathe boys swept the 3200-meter run, led by Jonathan Munger’s winning time of 11:03.82. Layton McLaughlin placed second (11:12.65), and Alecxis Hernandez finished third (11:30.27). The Pirates also won the 400-meter relay in 45.95, and the 800 relay team took silver with a time of 1:36.59. The

first place as a member of the 800m relay team, a third in the 200m dash and a fifth place in the 100m dash.

Photo by Tamie Meck

Nolan Egging winds up for the discus throw Friday. Egging placed third in the event behind Bulldogs Darrin Young and Kevin Chavez.

Colorado Mesa University was Grant’s first choice where he plans to pursue a career in sports medicine.

Photo by Wayne Crick

Cedaredge senior signs his letter of intent to run track at Colorado Mesa University on April 11 in front of the Cedaredge High School’s student body. Looking on is Grant’s father, Gary Grant.

Local girl makes it big in hockey world BY WAYNE CRICK DCI Sports Editor

After a rigorous season of hockey, Sami Cassel, a sophomore in Delta, achieved a memorable experience many athletes most likely will never experience ... unless they play hockey and make it to the USA Hockey National Tournament. Cassell played for two area hockey teams (West Elk 19U and Aspen 16U Tier ll) this past season. She logged 45 games and many miles while enjoy-

ing the game of hockey with an all-female team. The culminating conclusion to a splendid season of hockey was a trip to the USA Hockey National Tournament held in Marlboro, Mass. While playing for the Aspen Leafs 16UAA team, Cassel and teammates needed a win to advance to the quarterfinal round of the USA Hockey National Tournament. Unfortunately, the Leafs were defeated 4-

0 by the Highland Park Falcons and finished 12 at nationals, defeating the Livonia Knights 2-1 and falling to the East Coast Wizards 3-0 (which were ranked number one in the nation heading into competition). In all there were 96 girls teams from all over the United States competing in six divisions at the New England Sports Center in Marlboro. The hosting facility featured eight full sheets of ice for competition.

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Photo submitted

Sami Cassel is pictured third from the right in the middle row. Cassel has played 45 hockey games and traveled many miles in a journey which ultimately culminated in a USA Hockey Nationals game in Marboro, Mass.

SURFACE CREEK April 18, 2018

NEWS

Section

www.deltacountyindependent.com

Trustees address drought planning, community garden BY DON BENJAMIN Staff Writer

The Town of Cedaredge board of trustees met for a brief executive session and a longer work session on Thursday, April 12. The purpose of the executive session was stated on the special meeting agenda as being “for a conference with attorney for purpose of receiving legal advice.” The Colorado Revised Statutes Open Meetings Act, CRS 26-6-204 (4)(b) allows a public body to confer with an attorney for legal advice during an executive session which is not open to the public. The remainder of the work session was open to the public. The work session is a discussion-only meeting which essentially previews for trustees the agenda for their next regular meeting. No action is taken at work sessions but the trustees spend considerable time discussing the town’s drought response plan which was first approved in 2012. Jerry Young, public works codirector, suggested that the town give serious consideration to adopting the actions outlined in stage one of the drought plan. Those actions call for voluntary conservation measures on the part of citizens and continual monitoring of the situation by town officials. Young conceded that the area may yet have a wet spring which has helped after previous dry winters. He stated that the next six weeks may be critical for deciding

what actions are required. The drought plan lists details regarding how drought is to be measured and actions that can be taken to help the town in efforts to either increase the water supply or decrease water usage. According to Young, the town plans to communicate with citizens regarding steps to be taken in the coming months. Information will be posted on the town’s Facebook page and in the town’s monthly newsletter “Writing on the Edge” which is included with town water bills. Citizens who wish to read the town’s drought response plan can find a link at the town’s website: http://www. cedaredgecolorado.com/ At the website, type the word drought in the “site search” box. Based on the trustees’ discussion on April 12, action may be taken on April 19 regarding the town’s drought response plan and a resolution concerning the community garden may be considered. The community garden was listed on the draft agenda for the April 19 meeting. However, based on the work session discussion, action on the garden may be delayed, especially with regard to decisions regarding water usage and water rate. Given the possibility that the town may have to adopt drought planning measures, the trustees indicated that decisions related to water may require further discussion.

Intersection completed

The improvements at the intersection of Highway 65 and Main Street in Cedaredge have been completed four weeks ahead of schedule. The intersection was open to traffic from all directions on Monday. The project improved drainage for the intersection, broadened turning lanes to accommodate large trucks and trailers, enhanced pedestrian crossings, and added areas for planters which will soon be filled with flowers.

Collins moves from chamber to Cedaredge town government Collins to be sworn in as Cedaredge town clerk at April 19 town council meeting

Orchard City residents asked to use good water practices BY RICK SMITH Contributing Writer

The Orchard City Board of Trustees met in regular session on April 11, with all trustees present. It was the final meeting for trustees Bob Eckels, Gary Tollefson and Tom Huerkamp. Eckels and Tollefson were unsuccessful in their reelection bids in the recent municipal election. Huerkamp did not seek reelection. The election was to be certified by April 13. The three new trustees, Jan Gage, Doug Keller and Mel Cook, will be sworn into office at a special board meeting on April 25, at 7 p.m. During constituent time at the April 11 meeting, Gary Cape asked the board about the town water supply and drought plans. He was told the current snow pack is at 30 percent of average, while water storage is full. If needed, the Drought Plan established in 2007 will be put into effect. Town Clerk Melissa Oelke stated that the town has a flier on water conservation practices available at the town hall. The municipalities of Cedaredge and Orchard City do have water rights pri-

ority. Cape said he has practiced water conservation techniques for the past 10 years. Many of his neighbors also work at conserving water, and he encouraged others in the community to become active in water conservation. Later in the meeting, the water audit report indicated a reduction in leakage in the system to 16 percent. Trustee Bob Eckels, during the water committee report, said there is no low snow, and there is no available water in the Ute Ditch. He noted that temperatures will play a role in water availability. A quick thaw would help the underground springs and municipal water, while a slow thaw will help fill the reservoirs. The trustees also considered: • There will be no changes to the contract for president of the Field of Dreams. Dan Sanders was approved as the new Field of Dreams president. • Paul Kehmeier was reappointed to the planning commission. • The road and bridge committee reported that addition-

Photo by Don Benjamin

al work on North Road should be completed by April 13. The project is staying on budget. Quotes for the Austin Road chip and seal project are to be received by May 4. The focus was on the changing of the guard during trustee comments. Mayor Ken Volgamore stated how much he appreciated working with trustees Tollefson, Eckels and Huerkamp. Trustee Gynee Thomassen said she will miss the three trustees who are leaving the board, and welcomed the newly elected members. Trustee Kirkpatrick specifically wanted to state his appreciation to Tom Huerkamp for his historical knowledge, Bob Eckels for his mapping skills and Gary Tollefson for his attention to detail. The three outgoing trustees all praised the town staff, and said they were honored to have served. Addressing the incoming trustees, Huerkamp advised, “If it isn’t broken, don’t fix it.” He added that he had the utmost respect for trustee Craig Fuller, and admonished him to “guard the hen house and not let the foxes win.”

BY DON BENJAMIN Staff Writer

Kami Collins, who left her position as executive director of the Cedaredge Area Chamber of Commerce on April 17, wants to assure area residents that she’s remaining in town. In fact, she’s going to be working as Cedaredge’s new town clerk and economic development coordinator. The timing of her transaction from her role at the chamber into the town job was such that her resignation was announced last week by chamber email before the town was able to make her new appointment official. But all that changed last week when the Town of Cedaredge trustees discussed Collin’s appointment at an April 12 work session and confirmed that her swearing-in ceremony is on the agenda for the town’s regular April 19 meeting. After serving two and a half years as executive director of the Delta Area Chamber of Commerce, Collins began her role with the Cedaredge Area Chamber of Commerce in July 2017. She worked with other chamber members and local citizens to help the town host a successful AppleFest and she improved communication through regular emails and notices. Recently she worked closely with the town in conducting a consumer/business survey. According to the town’s published job announcement, her new role as town clerk and economic development coordinator will make her “responsible for managing and maintaining all town records,

File photo

Kami Collins will be sworn in as Cedaredge town clerk and economic development coordinator at the town council meeting on April 19. minutes 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.” Her role at the Cedaredge Area Chamber of Commerce was a part-time position. Her new town job will be fulltime with benefits. During the transition, Collins will continue to work with the chamber to support upcoming events including this year’s AppleFest which is scheduled for October. Reflecting on her change of jobs, Collins said, “I have loved getting to know the business community of the Surface Creek Valley and working with our chamber members. I’m looking forward to continue working with the business community in this new role, as well as serving the community as town clerk.”

Public meeting focuses on new art center BY DON BENJAMIN Staff Writer

The Grand Mesa Arts and Events Center (GMAEC) has issued an invitation to all interested citizens to attend a public meeting to learn more about the center and share their ideas for center activities. The informational question and answer event will be held Wednesday, April 18, from 6:30-7:30 p.m. in the Cedaredge Civic Center at 140 NW 2nd Street. The public is invited to meet GMAEC board members and officers who will be on hand to answer questions regarding the center which is on schedule to open in June 2018. The public is encouraged to share their ideas and desires related to events to be featured at the new center. Envisioned events run the gamut from workshops, symposiums, and classes to live theatre

Photo by Don Benjamin

The Grand Mesa Arts and Events Center building in downtown Cedaredge is due to open in June 2018. A public meeting on April 18 will provide information about the center and gather input from interested citizens. and music performances to art shows and gallery installations. Those hosting the event hope that all interested individuals will join them for an evening of information and

sharing. The building which will house the center is located in downtown Cedaredge at the intersection of West Main Street and SW 2nd Street. Renovations are nearing completion and those organiz-

ing tonight’s public meeting are particularly interested in hearing input from their Main Street neighbors. Donations to fund the center are still being accepted. Contributors can make a lump sum donation or participate in a pledge program to spread their donation out over time. To donate, contact GMAEC by email: info@grandmesaartscenter. com. Or drop off donations at Starr’s Guitars, 250 West Main Street in downtown Cedaredge. Or mail contributions to GMAEC, PO Box 583, Cedaredge, CO 81413. Or donate online at the nonprofit organization’s website. To follow the continuing progress of the center’s renovation and planned opening, visit the nonprofit organization’s website at https://www. facebook.com/grandmesaarts center/.

On Saturday, April 28, GMAEC invites children and families to take part in a ‘Hall of Helping Hands’ event. Children attending will create a hand-print tile which will be displayed in the new arts center building. The cost to create a tile is $10 with proceeds going to support the center. Donated tiles will be made available for children and families who are unable to afford the cost. A ticket to create a tile can be purchased in advance at www.ticketstripe.com/ grandmesaartscenter. Or tickets can be purchased at the door of the event which will be held at the Cedaredge Civic Center. There will be two opportunities for families and kids to participate in creating their tiles: in the morning from 9-11 a.m. and again in the afternoon at 1-3 p.m.

C2 Wednesday, April 18, 2018

SURFACE CREEK NEWS

Bear Den for February

Photo submitted

Students at Cedaredge Elementary School are nominated each month by their teachers to be included in the Bear Den. The different characteristics which can earn recognition are Perseverance (P), Respect (R), Integrity (I), Duty (D) and Excellence (E). February’s Bear Den students are: kindergartners Elijah Grant and Kylie Toothaker from Mrs. Keller’s class, Lucas Cole from Mrs. McAdam’s class and Shiloh Vanderlaan and Andi Carmack from Mrs. Parson’s class; first graders Spencer Valdez and Kenzie Perry from Mrs. Daig’s class, Kylee Perry and Aiden Huberd from Mrs. Long’s class and Katherine Woods and Aiden Houston from Mrs. Shriver’s class; second graders JaeLynne Hutto and JC Vela from Miss Benson’s class, Kashton Hutto and Dakota Long from Mrs. Montoya’s class and Dani Becker and Rachele Olson from Mrs. Hawkins’ class; third graders Kimberly Stone and Zeandra Robidoux from Mrs. Hoerr’s class, Caden Kelley and Corban Richardson from Mrs. Galvan’s class and J.J. Velasquez and Kiera Stahly from Mrs. Lampton’s class; fourth graders Cruz Alejandre and Somer Gartner from Ms. Rienk’s class, Gabe Young and Skyler Kelley from Mr. Stanfield’s class and Samantha Toothaker from Mr. Henderson’s class; fifth graders Jason Hong from Mrs. Whitney’s class, Addison Travis and Allani Sullivan from Ms. Edward’s class and Jacob Bowler and Lily Sinkay from Mr. Thompson’s class; Makenzy Kelley and Tel Geyer from Mrs. Henderson’s PE class; and Twila Campos and Jaden Pearson from Mrs. Sharer’s class.

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Delta County Independent

Bear Den for March

Photo submitted

Students at Cedaredge Elementary School are nominated each month by their teachers to be included in the Bear Den. The different characteristics which can earn recognition are Perseverance (P), Respect (R), Integrity (I), Duty (D) and Excellence (E). The March Bear Den students are: kindergartners Emmie Myers from Mrs. Keller’s class, Jayden Montoya from Mrs. McAdam’s class and Zoe Harness and Levi Lemon from Mrs. Parson’s class; first graders Kinley Ediger and Lorenzo Saenz from Mrs. Daig’s class, Devon Hofius and Makenzy Kelley from Mrs. Long’s class and Ethan Castoe and Kaylee Kainz from Mrs. Shriver’s class; second graders Linnea Purvis and Daniel Chavez from Miss Benson’s class, Cambree Hanson and Liam Martin from Mrs. Montoya’s class and Bill Johnson and Alexis Ward from Mrs. Hawkin’s class; third graders Peyton Wood and Aiden Cohick from Mrs. Hoerr’s class, Xavier Harness and Brylee Lambert from Mrs. Galvan’s class and Isaac Tullis and Jaden Martinez from Mrs. Lampton’s class; fourth graders Abby Ogier and Alyna Valdez from Ms. Rienk’s class, Trevor Brownlee and Tegan Ediger from Mr. Stanfield’s class and Shyle Almon and Isaac Kuzov from Mr. Henderson’s class; fifth graders Livia Stahly and Recee Phillips from Mrs. Whitney’s class, Chantale Ogier and Roman Hoeltzner from Ms. Edward’s class and Dixie Anderson and Wylee Lorimor from Mr. Thompson’s class; and Isabella Johnson, JC Vela and Andreas Thomas from Mrs. Henderson’s PE class.

Cedaredge will hold public hearing, town board meeting on April 19 BY DON BENJAMIN Staff Writer

Two town meetings will be held on Thursday, April 19. The first meeting will be a public hearing at 5 p.m. regarding the Lost Mesa Grill liquor license application. The public is invited to address the trustees speaking in favor, expressing a neutral opinion, or opposing the license. The Lost Mesa Grill is currently being renovated in downtown Cedaredge. The building is the former site of Scrambler’s Restaurant. The second town meet-

ing on April 19 is the trustees’ regular meeting and it will take place following the liquor license public hearing. The agenda for the regular meeting includes departmental reports from the golf club, public works, police department, and town administrator. There will also be a financial report and a report from the Cedaredge Area Chamber of Commerce. The agenda also includes the following: • Approval under the consent agenda of liquor license renewals for the 4B’s Brew-

ing LLC Brew Pub and The Clubhouse Grill, Inc. 4B’s is located in downtown Cedaredge and The Clubhouse Grill is located at the Cedaredge Golf Club. Trustees will also be asked to approve the town financial report and disbursements for March 2018. • A swearing-in ceremony for trustees beginning new terms of office and swearing-in of Kami Collins as the new town clerk. • Approval of a resolution to appoint trustee officers and town staff. • Approval of committee assignments for trustees and town staff. In addition to their trustee and staff duties, town officials serve on some 15 committees covering topics ranging from trees and transportation to planning and zoning.

• Action on the Lost Mesa Grill liquor license and a request for a residential fence permit and approval of a proclamation declaring April 27 as Arbor Day. • Action may be taken regarding the town’s drought response plan and water issues related to the community garden. Time is allotted at the start and end of all regular board of trustee meetings for constituent comments. Barring special meetings, the trustees meet for work sessions on the second Thursday of each month and for regular meetings on the third Thursday of each month. Meetings begin at 5 p.m. in the Grand Mesa Room at 140 NW 2nd Street in Cedardege. The public is encouraged to attend.

Photo by Don Benjamin

This deer was spotted through a back yard arbor.

February deer count announced BY DON BENJAMIN Staff Writer

Cody Purcell, district wildlife manager for Colorado Parks and Wildlife, reports that this winter’s urban deer count conducted in and around Cedaredge totaled 508 animals. Fourteen citizen volunteers and six CPW staff members participated in the count which was conducted on Feb. 23. The deer total may have been low because the day of the count was snowy and windy and such weather tends to disperse the animals and drive them to cover. The February count represents the early

stages of CPW efforts to develop a scientific management plan to deal with the town’s growing deer population. The winter count is the first of multiple counts planned for the Cedaredge area. Another count will be conducted this summer to get an idea of deer movements during diverse seasons. Data generated by the counts will help CPW adjust the size and location of counting zones and help officials get a sense of the town’s resident deer population versus those animals which move in and out of the urban environment with the changing seasons.

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SURFACE CREEK NEWS

Delta County Independent

Wednesday, April 18, 2018

Planning for drought and for drier future BY HANNAH HOLM Hutchins Water Center at Colorado Mesa University

Looking up at the Grand Mesa from Grand Junction in early April, it’s good to see snow on its flanks. For too much of this past winter, they have been bare. Skiers felt the pain of the dry winter early; fish and ranchers will feel it this summer. In Grand Junction, the impacts of this year’s drought will likely be eased by last year’s bounty, stored in reservoirs upstream. More troubling is the trend we’ve been seeing since 2000, which scientists are warning could signal a shift to a more arid climate. Since 2000, we’ve had a lot more dry years than wet years in the Colorado River Basin. In a report released in March, the Colorado River Research Group warns that it may be more accurate to see this succession of dry years as a process of aridification, rather than a drought: we shouldn’t assume that it will end any time soon. The group points to several recent studies showing that warmer temperatures have

already led to a larger portion of our snowpack evaporating or getting taken up by plants before it has a chance to reach streams. 2017 was a case in point, with a very large snowpack converted into only moderately aboveaverage inflows into Lake Powell. Water managers and policy makers have not failed to notice this drying trend, reflected most obviously in dropping levels in Lakes Powell and Mead. Water users in the lower basin states of Arizona, California and Nevada have reigned in their water use a bit, managing to keep Lake Mead just barely above official shortage levels for the past few years.

In the upper basin states of Wyoming, Utah, New Mexico and Colorado, water leaders have been conducting modeling exercises to assess the risk of critical shortages and experiments to test options for responding. The Colorado River Risk Study, spearheaded by the Colorado River District and the Southwestern Water Conservation District, has modeled several hydrology and water demand scenarios to assess the risk of Lake Powell dropping too low to reliably generate hydropower (somewhere between elevations of 3,490 and 3,525 feet above sea level). If Powell drops much further, it could also become dif-

Birds of the Western Slope A look at local birds with Evelyn Horn The Stump I hear the wind ... it’s strong. According to the newscast, this is supposed to be a windy day. Sounds like it! As I pull the comforter up close, my mind wanders. And I wonder, “How long ago was that?” When we first came to the Delta area, I remember visiting Cleland Park with a friend and we admired all of the log carvings: bears and wolves, raccoons and squirrels. It was really quite a display! And I thought “cranes.” Maybe one could be looking eastward toward the reservoir to see his kinfolk each spring. And on the other side of the tree, looking westward could be one or two more cranes, looking for the route that they would likely take when they left us for their northern nesting ground. It was a marvelous dream and I certainly enjoyed it! But I didn’t have a Stump. All I had were two magnificent cottonwood trees. Then came years of crane-pursuit. Allen and I went to the Monte Vista Festival and I had the fun of being a presenter. It wasn’t far to the Bosque del Apache where I had the same fun, but it was a bigger deal (lasting nearly a full week). Martha Mohan and I became close friends, so she and I went to the Bosque a number of times. What marvelous memories! Then I finally made it to Nebraska. Truly an experience of a life time! Inez Potorrf from Hotchkiss and I made the train trip, leaving Grand Junction in the afternoon and arriving at Kearney, Nebraska ,at two-something-orother in the morning. That was the time the train left Nebraska too!

Nancy Sheppard captured this photo of sandhill cranes at Hart’s Basin several years ago. But we were birding and that was all that matter to us. Later, Karen Derick and I became close friends and we made the trip to Wisconsin and the International Crane Foundation. And then we went on to the Whooping Cranes Festival at Aransas, Texas. We went on to support our cranes when there was a proposition to hunt them! And that resulted in “no hunting” and the formation of the Steamboat Springs Crane Festival which we have attended since the first festival six years ago. And all of this time, I’ve monitored the cranes when they come to us each spring. What a grand time I’ve had! But things change. Our majestic cottonwoods had to be cut down this spring. How I miss them! And there was an effort by the neighbors to have a stump carved with cranes (in recognition of all of my involvement with the cranes?). But the stump was full of nails! It became clear that it was hollow as well. So much for the dreams of crane-carvings! It was a fun experience! Crane update: About 11,000 birds from the Rocky Mountain Population of Greater Sandhill Cranes have passed through Hart’s Basin during spring migration.

Book sale Saturday to benefit library The Friends of the Cedaredge Public Library will host a used (hardcover and paperback) sale on Saturday, April 21, from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. at Stolte Shed in Pioneer Town. Fiction, sci-fi/fantasy, mystery, romance, west-

ern, children and young adult books will be available. There will also be a selection of audio books, music CDs and movies. All proceeds support the Cedaredge Public Library’s various programs.

ficult to release enough water through the dam to meet downstream obligations under the 1922 Colorado River Compact. If that happens, cities could rush to purchase water rights from farms, potentially drying up much of the agriculture on the Western Slope. Using historical hydrology from 1988 – 2012 and demand numbers that roughly track current use trends, modeling indicates a 20 percent chance of Powell dropping to elevation 3,525 between now and 2036 if we don’t significantly change how water is managed. Using the same demand and hydrology data, that risk could be cut in half if major reservoirs like Blue Mesa and Flaming Gorge release extra water to Powell and the lower basin states implement their own plans to protect Lake Mead water levels. The risk drops further if conservation activities generate water that can be stored in a “bank” and released as needed. However, major benefits would come only after such a bank has had time to accumulate a significant amount of water. Meanwhile, the Upper Colorado River Commission has been giving out grants to test whether paying willing water users to temporarily reduce their use could help boost water levels in Powell. Such temporary reductions, rotated between different water users, are seen as an alternative to the permanent “buy and dry” of agricultural water rights. Participants in the grant program include the Grand Valley Water Users Association, which chose several farmers by lottery to temporarily fallow their land in exchange for payment, and farmers in the North Fork and Uncompahgre Valleys who reduced irrigation or grew alterna-

tive crops under the program. Commission’s The report on the program concluded that it could work, but several hurdles would have to be overcome. For example, it is unclear if sufficient legal tools currently exist to ensure that water conserved by one user could make it to Lake Powell without being picked up by someone else along the way. Measuring the amount of water saved through modified irrigation practices is also technically challenging. And the cost could be high — at the rates used by the program in 2017, it would cost $40 million to conserve about 200,000 acre feet of water. As drought planning has been discussed at western slope water meetings, concerns have been raised about how to ensure fairness, with a strong desire to ensure that cities share the pain of any use cuts with farmers. There is also concern that proactive conservation could simply facilitate new drains on the Colorado River system, rather than protect exist-

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ing users from drier conditions. The data clearly demonstrate that we face the risk of a drier future, in which past ways of managing water will not continue to be viable. There are ways to mitigate the impact on our communities, but they are likely to be expensive and will certainly be complicated. This makes it all the more important to press forward now. The sooner we can find equitable, feasible mechanisms for adapting to drier conditions, the more smoothly we will be able to handle both temporary droughts and drier conditions over the long term. 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 is provided by a grant from the Walton Family Foundation. You can learn more about the center at http://www. coloradomesa.edu/watercenter.

C6 Wednesday, April 18, 2018

CHURCH

Delta County Independent

Spring burning and power pole safety While controlled burns are an important tool in Western Colorado for managing and restoring natural areas, Delta-Montrose Electric Association is asking members to take extra precaution when burning near power poles or other parts of the power system. “Burning near our power poles and equipment creates an obvious hazard. If left unchecked, fire can severely damage our power poles, create outages, serious safety hazards, and result in costly repairs,” said DMEA operations manager Troy Hall. DMEA urges members to take special note of power poles and lines

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before starting a burn. Burning a power pole could result in widespread power outages and cost up to $5,000 for the individual responsible for the fire. Before beginning a controlled burn, cut all grass and weeds near power poles to reduce fire hazards. The U.S. Department of Agriculture also advises the removal of all dead trees within 20 feet of the planned burn. Water the area near the poles, but be careful to keep water streams out of power lines. Poles that have sustained any amount of damage must be replaced. If a power pole catches on fire, call 911 and alert DMEA at 1-877-

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put out your burn. And most importantly, don’t be afraid to call for help,” said Lindsay Wiley, public information officer with the Montrose Fire Protection District. Wiley also recommends the following: • Conduct the burn as early as possible and try to finish before noon. • Check the weather — if moderate or high winds are predicted postpone the burn.

• Never leave your burn unattended. • Call 911 immediately if you lose control of your burn. In Delta County, citizens must call dispatch at 399-2955 prior to conducting any agricultural or ditch burn. Information about open burning and permitting in Colorado can be found online at https:// www.colorado.gov/pacif ic/cdphe/openburn.

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

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687-3632 immediately to address the possible electrical dangers. A pole that catches on fire could create shock or electrocution hazards to those who may be nearby or spark fires in unintended directions from downed lines. Even if you think you have been able to put out the fire yourself, alert DMEA to the fact that it caught fire. The creosote, a power pole preservative, could still be burning the pole from the inside out. “Simply taking the time to be aware of conditions can prevent costly and dangerous mistakes. Check and continuously monitor the weather the day of your burn. Be prepared with a plan to

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Classifieds

April 18, 2018

Real Estate

D SECTION

Delta County Independent

BUY • SELL • TRADE

Real Estate

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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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FOR SALE BY OWNER 4 BR/3 BA 2684 s.f. on 2+ usable acres. Open concept with spectacular master suite, 2017 appliances, granite bar, electric baseboard heat, pellet stove, evaporative cooler. Lots of storage and parking. 1707 F Rd., Delta. Call 989-6005010 for appt. (2x16)

Rentals CREEKSIDE! CEDAREDGE 3 bedroom 2 bath, totally remodeled, deck, laundry hookups, double garage, non-smokers only, pets negotiable, $1,320/mo + utilities, First and last month plus $1,400 deposit, 2-Year lease (360) 929-5155. (2x14) 1 BDRM. APT. FULLY FURnished down to the towels and forks. Very clean modern executive apt. near the hospital and Crossroads Living Center. All utilities paid, (gas, electric, water, sewer). Wi Fi and cable available for an additional cost. Washer and Dryer in the unit. No Smoking, No Pets. $1500 monthly, $1500 security deposit. Call 970856-1059 (2x15)

Commercial Rentals CEDAREDGE OFFICE FOR Rent. Convenient location on Highway 65. Fourroom office,. 600 square feet. $590/month. Recently remodeled; like new. 970856-3032 (3x15)

Classified Ads get results. Call 874-4421.

Wanted To Rent THE US FOREST SERVice is looking for short term rentals, approximately 3 to 4 months. The rental would need to include modern, clean and up-to-date amenities, including kitchen and bathroom and be fully furnished. The rental must be within the Delta city limits or a 2 mile radius of Delta. The vendor must be registered in SAM (www. sam.gov) to be considered registration is free. If you are interested in providing a short term rental, Please contact Sally Vigil at 970216-9640. (2x16)

For Sale

Thank you for your cooperation

Autos FOR SALE: DELTA HOUSing Authority is selling a used vehicle. 2000 Ford Ranger with 119,893 miles. The vehicle will be sold AS IS - No Warranty. It will be sold to the highest bidder. For more information contact Cathy Karch at 970874-7266 x 4. If interested, submit bid by April 27, 2018 by 4 p.m., email bid to: admin@deltahousingautho rity.org. (2x15) 2003 JEEP GRAND Cherokee Laredo. 6 cylinder, automatic, 4x4, trailer hitch. 169,000 miles, Good+ condition. $4100. Paonia. 970527-3933. (2x16)

Pets WE HAVE FULL BRED Black Miniature Schnauzers in the Delta County Area. 3 Girls and 1 Boy. The mother and father are MSCA registered. They will be 8 weeks old on the 19th of April. If you would like more information call or text me at 970-985-1307. $1200. (2x16) GET QUICK RESULTS, advertise in the DCI Classifieds. Call today 874-4421.

Yard Sales

2001 BUELL BLAST COMMUNITY WIDE YARD 500cc $1,300. 970-312-5113. sale, Saturday, May 12, 8-4, parking lot at 6th & Main, (2x14) Delta (Edward Jones - Isaiah DLL FINANCE LLC WILL St. Peter’s office). Shoppers, offer the following repos- come browse dozens of sessed equipment for sale yard sales all at once! Got to the highest bidder for some junk collecting dust? certified funds, plus appli- Sell it with us and showcable sales tax. Equipment: case to tons of yard sale TYM T754C Tractor S/N: shoppers, plus we’ll do the 75SMH00080, WOO SB74C advertising for you! 10x10 Snowblower S/N: 1360102, space is just $10. All proTYM TX75 Loader S/N: ceeds benefit guest services TX75H00074. Date of sale: at the Abraham Connection May 1, 2018. Time of Sale: Homeless Shelter. 970-7732:00 p.m. Place of sale: 8290; www.deltaabraham Varner Equipment Sales connection.org; or Facebook 1375 Hwy. 50 Delta, CO for more info, registration 81416. Equipment can be form. (4x16) inspected at place of sale. The equipment will be sold AUSTIN WEEKEND SALE as is, without warranty. Half mile straight south Final sale of equipment will of downtown Austin. Just be contingent upon winning across river turn east at bidder meeting all applica- 8116 2200 Rd. Various plybeautiful ble federal and state regu- woods–some latory requirements. We veneers, shelving, cabinereserve the right to bid. For try materials, planks, OSB, further information please 3 doors, lots of tile, lumber contact Tracy Calhoun racks, ceiling fan, light fix(505) 301-0726, Reference tures, air compressor, carpet, storage cabinet, 10-ft. Number: 1762549. (2x16) aluminum skiff, 2 filing cabinets, 2 garden carts, fountain, camping table, farm equipment and much more. No kitchenware, clothes, toys. Saturday, April 21, 8 a.m. to 5 p.m., Sunday April 22, 8 a.m. to 4 p.m. (1x16)

Classified Ads are the place where sellers find buyers. Call today. 874-4421.

Yard Sales

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Help Wanted

HUGE RUMMAGE SALE at Delta Presbyterian Church, 135 E. 4th Street. April 20 and 21. The money goes to support The King's Table Soup Kitchen. We have something for everyone. (3x14)

Business Opportunities DEVIL’S THUMB GOLF Course is accepting proposals for enhancing the golf experience through Food & Beverage Services. For additional information please contact wilma@cityofdelta. net or 970-874-0923. (1x16)

Help Wanted HELP WANTED: THE City of Delta is now accepting applications for a Municipal Service Worker in the Public Works Department. Position is fulltime with benefits, starting salary is $17.24/hr. Under direct supervision performs a variety of unskilled and semi-skilled manual labor in the construction and maintenance of roadways, water and sewer systems, drainage facilities, buildings, other public facilities, and in refuse collection; drives truck and operates light equipment incidental to the work. May work with the State of Colorado Department of Corrections by providing proper security of offenders while supervising and instructing offender labor performing community service tasks. Must possess or be able to acquire a Class B commercial driver license within first six months of employment; possess both valid Colorado Class 1 Collection and Distribution Certifications or able to obtain within first 18 months of employment; any combination of training and experience equivalent to graduation of high school with some experience as a laborer. Will be required to successfully pass a preemployment drug screen and background check. Submit completed City of Delta employment application to the City of Delta, Attn: Human Resources, 360 Main Street, Delta, CO 81416 no later than 5:00 p.m. Wednesday, April 25, 2018. Full job description and applications available at the above address or online at www.cityofdelta.net. Incomplete applications or applications submitted after the deadline will not be considered. EOE. (1x16)

TOWN OF CRAWFORD IS looking for a part-time Public Works Assistant. Performs skilled Public works duties involving streets, water, wastewater, parks, distribution and collections system. Assists with maintenance and updating of equipment and structures. Class B CDL preferred. Send resume to crawfordclerk@gmail.com or pick up application at 425 Hwy 92. Submit application or resume By 4:00 on May 9. 970-921-4725. (3x16) SUBSCRIBE!! 874-4421.

OPENING SOON!! LOST Mesa Grill on Main Street Cedarege. Now hiring experienced wait staff, lead cooks & line cooks. Apply in person. 130 W. Main St. or call Travis 970-485-0501. (2x16) OFFICE MANAGER IN Hotchkiss area. General clerical work. Send resume to mfbresumes@gmail. com. (1x16) LOOKING FOR QUALITY employees? Advertise here in the DCI Classifieds.

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D2 Wednesday, April 18, 2018 Help Wanted

CLASSIFIEDS

Help Wanted

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The Gallegos Corporation is seeking full-time experienced

Concrete Form Setters and Finishers

for our very busy concrete division in the Roaring Fork Valley. Top Pay, Full Benefits. $26-30 Plus/Hr Based on Experience

Call HR at 970-926-3737

Visit us at careers.gallegoscorp.com

HELP WANTED: THE City of Delta is now accepting applications for a Golf Course Maintenance Worker for the Devil’s Thumb Golf Course. Starting salary is $10.52 per hour depending on experience. This is a part-time, seasonal position. Under the direction of the Golf Superintendent, performs a wide variety of unskilled/semi-skilled work and construction work on City’s golf course. Works with hand tools necessary to maintain golf course, spray weeds, mow grass, irrigate. May operate weed cutters, riding mowers, dump truck and pickup truck. May run hand power equipment including power mowers, compactors and chains saws. May paint miscellaneous equipment used in the operation of the department. Minimum requirements are any combination of training and experience equivalent to graduation from high school and six months of general labor experience. Must be willing to work early mornings, weekends and Holidays. Must possess a valid Colorado driver’s license. Minimum age 17. Must successfully pass a background check and preemployment drug screen. Submit applications to the City of Delta, Attn: Human Resources Department, 360 Main Street, Delta, Co 81416. Full job description and applications available at the above address or online at www.cityofdelta. net (do not submit application to the golf course). EOE. (1x16)

FARM MANAGER/ASSISTant to ranch manager to coordinate, run and operate farming operations for the Escalante Ranch, Delta, Colo. Prefer 10-15 years minimum experience farming alongside and in conjunction with livestock, while handling all aspects of crop production. Looking for a productive, persistent, goal-oriented, self-starter who is a disciplined, organized, intelligent manager who can line out and supervise people, set priorities, and get the work done on a timely basis. Housing and utilities furnished plus a good salary and benefit package. Contact DMiller@mikaag.com or call 303-809-6234. (4x16)

Delta County Independent

Help Wanted THE CITY OF DELTA Police Department in Delta, Colorado is now accepting applications for Police Officer. Under direction of the sergeant or assigned supervisor, patrols an assigned area in the enforcement of law and order and prevention of crime; takes intensive field and basic training in the early period of employment. Necessary special requirements are: High School Graduate; possess a valid Colorado driver’s license; State certified or certifiable in Law Enforcement through the Colorado Peace Officers Standards Training (P.O.S.T); must be 21 years of age or more at time of hire; will be required to pass a detailed background and criminal record check, a psychological exam, physical agility, written test, pre-employment drug test and a pre-employment fit for duty exam. The starting salary is $21.93 per hour which includes substantial contributions to Medical, Dental, Vision insurance for the employee and family, 10 paid holidays and 152 hours of Paid Time Off (PTO) accrual per year, Employee Assistance Program, Fire and Police Pension Association (FPPA) of Colorado pension plan, generous contributions to a 401A retirement plan, Long Term Disability and 100% City paid Life Insurance. The City of Delta has an exceptional recreation center and the position includes membership to the recreation center and access to the top rated Devil’s Thumb Golf Course. Please submit application and the supplemental application to: City of Delta, Attn: Human Resources, 360 Main Street Delta CO 81416. Deadline for applications is 5:00 p.m. April 25, 2018. Applications, supplemental applications and a complete job description are available at address listed above, or at www. cityofdelta.net. Applications received after the deadline, or incomplete, will not be accepted. EOE (2x15)

IMMEDIATE OPENING: Summer Ranch Irrigation Job, Delta. Remote location, sprinkler & flood. Good seasonal job for retired person who likes outdoors and is in good physical shape. Irrigating experience required. Need a self-starter capable of planning and working alone without supervision. Good compensation and benefit package with housing and utilities furnished. Contact: Kent Davis PEOPLE LOOK FOR JOBS at kdavis@escalanteranch. in the classifieds. 874-4421 com or call 970-216-2864. YOUR LISTING HERE! (4x16) call now... 874-4421

Advertise

today in the DCI! Call 874-4421

for your personal ad rep.

Help Wanted PART-TIME GRANT WRITer Position The Blue Sage Center for the Arts seeks an experienced part-time grant writer to research and write grant proposals to support Blue Sage’s mission and grow its financial support. The grant writer will be responsible for identifying and developing new granting and funding opportunities in the areas of musical arts, literary arts, arts educational programs, mixed-media and visual arts, and historical building restoration and repairs. This is an independent contractor position estimated at 10-15 hours per week. For more information about the position and our organization, please check out our website at https:// bluesage.org/, email us at director@bluesage.org or call us at 970-527-7243. (1x16)

Public Service WHAT TYPES OF Cottage Foods Can I Produce? Whole eggs, spices, teas, dehydrated produce, nuts, seeds, Honey, jams, jellies, and preserves, fruit butter, candies, certain bake goods If you have any questions, please call: 8742165. Delta County Health Department. (4x16) 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. THE KINGS TABLE SOUP Kitchen needs egg cartons. If you have any to give please call 250-6637 and we will pick up.

DOMESTIC VIOLENCE Support Group for Adults and Children: Every Wednesday in Delta from 5-7 p.m. there will be a free support group for adults Public whose lives have been Service impacted by domestic violence and a separate group for children at the same time. Please call 970-874PARENTS FREE! INFORM4941 to sign up. ation and referrals to licensed child care provid- WANNA PLAY A ROUND? ers, call Bright Futures Child Golf with a fun group of Care Resource and Referral, ladies. Two membership 1-877-728-5613. options available. Sign up at www.cedaredgeladies SUPPORT THE DELTA golf.com. Get to know us Public Library. Give a gently on Facebook at “cedar used book in the Downstairs edgeladiesgolfclub” Book Store. YOU CAN QUIT. WE CAN SAVE EYEGLASSES, OLD help. Colorado Tobacco jewelry and silver or bits of Quitline offers free, configold and silver scraps. The dential assistance. Call 1Grand Odd Fellow Lodge is 800-QUIT-NOW. sending them to: New Eyes for the Needy, 549 Millburn BOOKS MAKE GREAT Ave., Short Hills, NJ 07078 stocking stuffers. Find or send them to: Gale books at great prices in Conger, Secretary of IOOF the basement of the Delta Lodge #116, 5516 Hwy. 348, Public Library. Delta, CO 81416.

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PUBLIC NOTICES

Delta County Independent

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Wednesday, April 18, 2018

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D4 Wednesday, April 18, 2018

LOCAL NEWS

Delta County Independent

What’s happening at your library? The Delta County Libraries offer many educational and entertaining activities and events for you and your family to enjoy. If you want to know what else your library is offering, please contact the library or visit the Delta County Libraries website at www.delta libraries.org. Cedaredge Storytimes. Storytimes for babies, tots and preschoolers are Thursdays starting at 10:30 a.m. Spring Book Sale. Shop smart and support your library! Find great prices on romance, fiction, mystery, westerns, children’s, teens, sci-fi, and fantasy. At the Stolte Shed at Pioneer Town in Cedaredge. Saturday, April 21, from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. Call 399-7674 for more information. USB Flash Drives. Learn how to safely store and manage files on your USB flash drive. Patrons are encouraged to bring their own devices and flash drive. Friday, April 27, from 10:30 to 11:30 a.m. April StoryWalk®. Groovy Joe is having a dance party. But, oh no! More and more doggies are knocking on his door, asking to come in. Will there be enough room for everyone? The April StoryWalk® on the Surface

Creek Trail is “Groovy Joe: Dance Party Countdown” written by Eric Litwin and illustrated by Tom Lichtenheld. Visit Cedaredge Library after your walk for activities and books related to the story. Pick up a musical take-home craft. Contact Cedaredge Library for more details at 399-7674. Seed Packet Maker Space. Make a simple, eco-friendly gift. Seed packets made from craft paper, scrap paper, fabric and more! All month long at Cedaredge Library. Crafts Group. Crafters meet every Tuesday at 10 a.m. to share ideas and show and tell. Tech Soup Saturday. Bring your devices and your questions. Our expert “techies” will do their best to answer your questions. Every Saturday, 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. Genealogy. Who’s Who in Whoville? Find out who you really are! The first Friday of every month from 10:30 a.m. to noon. Crawford Storytimes. Storytimes for babies, tots and preschoolers are Thursdays starting at 10:30 a.m. Contact the library at 399-7783 for details. Crochet Club. For beginners and old pros! Come and learn or come and teach. Bring your own yarn and hooks.

Delta Library after school to learn how to do blackout poetry! There will be snacks and tons of fun. Thursday, April 26, at 4:30 p.m. Plant a Seed Maker Space. Plant a seed in a cup and watch it sprout as it develops into a plant. All month long in April during library hours. Who Hatches Scavenger Hunt. Locate different eggs in the children’s area, crack the egg to discover what creature hatches. All month long in April. Teen Game Night. Board games and card games are available in the teen area every Wednesday night at 4 p.m. Genealogy One-onOne. Get the help you need researching your genealogy in this ongoing class taught by Mickey Watts. Meets the second and fourth Monday of each month at 5 p.m. Talk & Tangle Yarn. This is a group of knit and crochet enthusiasts who get together to talk and work on their individual projects. Mondays starting at 5:30 p.m. Hotchkiss Storytimes. Baby, tot and preschooler storytimes are Wednesdays starting at 10:30 a.m. Contact the library at 399-7781 for details. Spring Break Code Club. Code with Lego

Every Friday at 10 a.m. Scrapbooking. Join friends at Crawford Library and get your pictures and other treasured items in your scrapbook. The first Monday of every month at 11 a.m. Tech Help. Librarians will be available to help you with questions and problems about computers or mobile devices. Wednesday through Saturday by appointment. Contact the library at 399-7783 for details. Delta Storytimes. Storytimes for babies, tots and preschoolers are Wednesdays starting at 10:30 a.m. Contact the library at 874-9630 for details. Teen Movie. Enjoy snacks and watch a movie. Thursday, April 19, at 2 p.m. Delta Book Club. This month we will discuss “Lolita” by Valdimire Nabokou. Saturday, April 21, at 1 p.m. Tech Information Station. An open information station in the conference room for all ages and skill levels to seek technical assistance with computers and tablets. Attendees will also receive an introduction to utilizing library databases for online classes. Saturday, April 21, at 10 a.m. Poetry. Blackout Teens are invited to the

WeDo 2.0 and Star Wars BB8. Solve a problem with your team to win a prize. Then test your BB8 driving skills in the obstacle course. Beginner coders welcome! Wednesday, April 18, at 2 p.m. Hotchkiss Book Club. Discussing “Short Nights of the Shadow Catcher” by Timothy Egan. Meets Thursday, April 19, at 3 p.m. Tech Help. Librarians will be available to help you with questions and problems about computers or mobile devices. Tuesday–Thursday by appointment, 399-7781. Paonia Storytimes. Baby, tot and preschooler storytimes are Tuesdays starting at 10:30 a.m. Contact library at 399-7881 for details. Birdsong Workshop. Teens are invited to Paonia Library for a Birdsong Workshop using Cornell University’s Bird Academy. Visualize bird songs and then test your skills as a juvenile bird imitating an adult expert. Friday, April 20, at 4 p.m. Knit Crochet Day. Enjoy the camaraderie of fellow knitters and crocheters; share projects and browse our library of craft books for use or purchase. Always tea and cookies too! Saturday, April 21, from noon to 1:30 p.m. Book Talk with

Karen McKee. Grand Junction author Karen McKee will speak about her novels and read from her 2018 novel “Worth Waiting For,” set in the fictional town of North Fork! Tuesday, April 24, at 6 p.m. Exploratory Art Class. Local art teacher Natalie Haines will provide a guided art activity for children age 3-5 and their parent or guardian. Bring your own snack and clothes to paint in. Space limited to 10 children. Every Friday from 3:45 to 4:45 p.m. through May 18.

Sponsors sought for summer reading program Delta County Libraries is already gearing up for the 2018 summer reading program. This year’s theme is “Libraries Rock!” If you’d like to support this communitysustained program, contact your local library or visit www.deltalibraries. org under “Summer Reading” then “2018 Summer Reading” to learn more and sponsor local kids for the program.

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Delta County Independent

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D6 Wednesday, April 18, 2018

BACK PAGE

Delta County Independent

B A C K P A G E A

Little Sprouts: A growing concern Photo by Don Benjamin

A circle of preschoolers enjoy a lively story in the comfortable sunlit interior of the Little Sprouts Preschool in Cedaredge. The school enrolls children from throughout Delta County. The teachers leading the class with group hand gestures are (left to right) Amanda Barks, Kristin Hatheway, Susan Van Scoyk and April Bennett.

BY DON BENJAMIN Staff Writer

n enthusiastic gardener can tell you what it takes to grow a sprout. Good earth, plentiful water, and sunshine will coax a healthy plant. But nurturing strong growth in a child requires more — it requires special care. And special loving care is one commodity that Cedaredge’s Little Sprouts Community Preschool has in abundance. Since 1995 when one director, one teacher, and a dozen children gathered in a church basement; through 2003

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Preschoolers grow their own tomatoes for school snacks at the nutrition-conscious school.

when they moved to their own building; and on to their current crop of six professionals and 43 children, the Little Sprouts community-based preschool has continued to prosper. Though the school is located in Cedaredge, it serves other communities enrolling students from thirty-eight families that live throughout Delta County. Jim Hatheway, who serves as chairman of the preschool’s volunteer board of directors, emphasizes that the school strives to “support the community that supports us.” Community involvement is an integral part of the school’s efforts to support families by promoting early childhood learning. For more than two decades the school has received support from the community and has also given back to the community they serve. The nearby Cedaredge Community United Methodist Church, where the preschool was born and where it spent its formative years, has been an essential source of support. Although the preschool is not directly affiliated with the church, the Methodists have been generous neighbors, allowing Little Sprouts — which owns its building — to lease land at a favorable rate and occasionally opening the church basement and sanctuary for preschool events. The United Methodist

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A pop-up book holds the interest of three preschoolers.

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Volunteers from the Cedaredge United Community Methodist Church teach cooking classes at the preschool.

Women’s group also assists with financial support and school programs including a cooking class and the church helps with maintenance and playground improvements. The larger community has also been supportive. A high school student comes in every month to provide Spanish lessons and Eagle Scouts from local Troop 482 are working on two infrastructure projects to construct a storage shed and replace an access ramp. The Cedaredge Public Library folks visit once a month to read stories and do activities with the children. Local firefighters and police officers present programs; veterinarians and dentists and other professionals visit to acquaint students with their work; and parents and grandparents assist with activities. The preschool charges tuition but they also provide scholarships as needed. Scholarships are supported by public funding and private contributions. About 40 percent of the school’s funding comes from tuition. Grants and community contributions provide 30 percent. And state funds administered through the Colorado Preschool Program and Colorado Child Find supply the remaining 30 percent. Child Find also provides speech and language and occupational therapy at the preschool. Little Sprouts sponsors two major fund-raising events each year. In April, as part of the school’s healthy living curriculum, students take part in a “fun run” with area businesses sponsoring children who run laps on a nearby school track. This year’s run will be held on April 26 and the school thanks all their current sponsors and welcomes new and returning sponsors to sign up for next year. In December a holiday “Cookie Walk” encourages community members to purchase homemade cookies and baked goods created by preschool families. The cookie event is augmented by a silent auction featuring items and services donated by the community. The school is currently accepting donations for the December event. The children also get involved in giving back to their community with annual efforts to collect pennies, coats and canned goods. Children and families fill buckets with pennies and other change and, when full, the buckets are dumped into a local bank’s change machine and the funds are donated to local charities. Coats are collected and shared with needy individuals and each Thanksgiving, children and families collect canned goods which the children carry downtown to donate to the Surface Creek Food Bank. But for all their community-related activities, Little Sprouts board chairman Hatheway and Lora Ely, preschool director, emphasize that the school’s greatest assets in educating and enriching the lives of children are supportive parents and a

Photo submitted

Preschoolers line up to hug a ﬁreman. Volunteers regularly visit the preschool to teach the children about community services. dedicated staff. Parents serve on the board of directors, contribute their time and money in fund-raising efforts, and serve as enthusiastic recruiters. Family loyalty and wordof-mouth are invaluable sources of enrollment. Several sets of siblings have attended Little Sprouts and former students who have grown up and become parents themselves return to enroll their children. Though it is a challenge to sustain deserving salaries for early childhood instructors, Little Sprouts has been fortunate to maintain a staff of dedicated teachers. Amanda Barks, Kristin Hatheway, and Susan VanScoyk serve as lead teachers. April Bennett is the school’s teaching assistant and Lisa Wright serves as substitute teacher. In addition to chairman Hatheway, the volunteer board of directors includes parents Annie Olson and Jessica Medrano; and community members Carolyn Stumpf, Dorothy Jean Mergelman and Trey and Mitchell Gronenthal. The private nonprofit school is located at 210 NW 3rd Street in Cedaredge. It operates from August to May and maintains a calendar similar to the Delta County public schools. It offers a preschool curriculum for three to four-year-olds as well as a pre-kindergarten curriculum for four to five-year-olds who are going to kindergarten the following year. The school is in session from Monday through Thursday and students can attend either an 8 to 11 a.m. morning session, or a noon to 3 p.m. afternoon session. Activities balance structured learning time with free play. During structured time, teachers lead lessons in literacy, math, handwriting, art, science, and music and movement. During free play children gain social skills and learn to make choices. Depending on the weather, free play takes place inside or on the school’s well-equipped playground. One unique aspect of Little Sprouts that sets it apart from other preschools is the school’s emphasis on healthy living. Little Sprouts provides healthy snacks and teaches children about good nutrition. Their “farm to school”

philosophy includes having the children grow their own potted tomatoes which they consume at snack time and supplementing school-grown food with other fresh fruits and vegetables. The preschool’s community involvement, its healthy initiatives, and its emphasis on learning have earned Little Sprouts an above average level 4 “Colorado Shines” quality ranking. The Colorado Office of Early Childhood evaluates and rates state childcare and preschool programs and assigns rankings with level 5 being the highest level. Community businesses or individuals wishing to donate time or funds to the school and parents wishing to enroll their children should contact Little Sprouts at 970-8564648 or visit their website: https://littlesproutsco.weebly. com/

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Children ﬁnd lots to do and read at Little Sprouts Community Preschool.

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Cooperation is required during play time to spin this cozy tub on the preschool’s playground.