Delta County Independent, June 20, 2018 by Delta County Independent

NORTH FORK TIMES

SURFACE CREEK NEWS

PLAN AHEAD

WATER SHORTAGES

Pre-registration required for some Cherry Days events, B1-2

SPORTS

Cedaredge, Orchard City weigh restrictions on water use, C1

DELTA COUNTY

CHSAA HONORS

Paonia’s Seriani, Miller named Player, Coach of the Year, B7 JUNE 20, 2018 VOL. 135, NO. 25

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Upon reconsideration, Delta bans sale, use of fireworks BY PAT SUNDERLAND Managing Editor

In the wake of Stage 2 fire restrictions throughout much of western Colorado and at the urging of Mayor Ron Austin, Delta City Council reconsidered the sale and use of personal fireworks at its June 18 meeting. The meeting was held one night earlier than usual due to a Colorado Municipal League conference in Vail which many council members planned to attend. When the resolution was initially considered on June 5, it failed on a 4-1 vote, with Gerald Roberts casting the dissenting vote. At that meeting, and in the intervening weeks, the Delta Police Department and the Delta Volunteer Fire Department have repeatedly expressed concerns about the use of personal fireworks, given the high fire danger in and around the city. At the June 18 meeting, council members raised many of the same issues they discussed two weeks earlier, but

time ...” The council’s decision will not affect the 4th of July fireworks display presented in Confluence Park by the Delta Volunteer Fire Department. In other business, council members appointed Ryan Crick to the planning commission to fill the term of Arla Nelson. Crick was one of three applicants interviewed by the council on June 5. The use of the city-owned parking lot was granted to Hoolie’s for its annual motorcycle show July 7. Wilma Erven, director of parks, recreation and culture, provided an update on the wellness pool repairs. With the assistance of American Leak Detection, a leak was finally located in a surge pump. Repairs have been made and the wellness pool has re-opened. Betsy Suerth, public works director, reported the storm system improvements at the intersection of 1st and Palmer are on track.

this time voted 4-1 to ban both the use and sale of personal fireworks in the city. Mayor Austin cast the “nay” vote because he was open to the sale of fireworks, but not the use. Other council members said that would just be confusing. “It becomes kind of hypocritical to allow them to be sold, but not used,” said council member Gerald Roberts. The ban extends to the temporary permits granted to fireworks stands, which in years past have been operated at Safeway and Walmart. The sale of fireworks is the main fundraiser for the youth of the Rivers Church (formerly the Assembly of God). Council member Nathan Clay recognized the impact on the youth, saying it was unfortunate the council’s decision would take away those revenues. “That was a very heavy consideration for most of us,” he said. “That isn’t something I take lightly, but at the same

Chamber’s new director gears up for summer events BY PAT SUNDERLAND Managing Editor

Paul Stockwell has been named the new executive director of the Delta Area Chamber of Commerce. Stockwell, formerly the program coordinator for Delta County Economic Development, will provide a similar type of business support, with a focus primarily on Delta, as opposed to DCED’s efforts countywide. “When I think of the chamber, I think of being very active with the local businesses,”

Stockwell is also familiar Stockwell said. “It was the same with DCED, with a lot of with the logistical challenges communication back and forth of putting together events, with businesses and members knowledge he will quickly on issues affecting the area. I apply to the Downtown Deltaalready know a lot of business Fest on June 28 and to Deltapeople, so hopefully it will be rado Days in late July. Fortunately, the chamber board is a smooth transition.” “We are very excited to have CHAMBER DIRECTOR TO A3 Paul as the chamber executive director,” said chamber board president Portia Vigil. “His experience with economic development and his involvement with the community will be a great asset to the chamBY ANNETTE BRAND ber and its members.”

Managing Editor

One June 24, bicyclists will depart Leadville for a sevenday cycling tour that will take riders through Aspen and Carbondale. On June 25, they’ll tackle McClure Pass, which tops out at 8,763 feet, and pass through Paonia and Hotchkiss en route to Delta. After an 87-mile day, the cyclists will set up camp in Confluence Park, where chamber ambassadors will have lunch ready as the riders roll into Delta. The Kiwanis are serving dinner, and the chamber is coordinating the beer garden and entertainment. The gym and conference room at Bill Heddles Recreation Center will also be available for overnight accommodations. The Delta High School

INDEX

Accent ........................... A4 Activities ....................... A7 Back Page ................... D6 Business ........................ A8 Church ............................C6 Classifieds .................. D1-2 Editorial ......................... A2 Health & Fitness ...... B4-6 Legals ......................... D3-4 North Fork Times ........B1-3 Obituaries ..................... A6 Service Directory ........ D5 Sports ..........................B7-8 Surface Creek News ...C1-5 TV Listings ..................C3-4

Sadie Jackman of Grand Junction entertained herself with a hula hoop prior to the opening of Girl Scout Day Camp June 13-16. Daisies, Brownies and Juniors gathered at Fort Uncompahgre to learn about early settlers, then moved to Delta United Methodist Church for badge work, games and crafts. Swimming and an overnight campout were included in this year’s event.

Commissioners comment on North Fork mancos development Staff Writer

Bicycle Tour of Colorado to make stop in Delta BY PAT SUNDERLAND

Girls on the go

Photo by Pat Sunderland

band is serving breakfast early, so cyclists can set out for Grand Mesa, taking back roads to Cedaredge and the Grand Mesa Scenic and Historic Byway. The 72-mile ride ends in Palisade. Another 75-mile ride takes cyclists into Glenwood Springs, where they’ll enjoy a relaxing day off. The last day of riding will include a climb over Tennessee Pass, elevation 10,424 feet, and back to Leadville for a tourend celebration. Local organizers are not certain how many riders — and supporters — will stop in Delta, but they plan to have plenty of food on hand for all the participants, plus any community members who want to stop by, enjoy the live music, grab a beer and mingle with the visitors.

On June 7, the Delta County Board of Commissioners submitted to the Bureau of Land Management its comments on several elements of the North Fork Mancos Master Development Plan. Water. Commissioners wrote that protection of the quality and available quantity of water is always a concern of the county, particularly when construction and/or oil and gas development is conducted in any upstream watershed of water sources draining into and used by Delta County residents. They requested that Bureau of Land Management and U. S. Forest Service specifically address this issue and review the adequacy of proposed plans. Off-site impacts to the county, municipalities, roads and traffic. Commissioners noted their concern about the unknown cumulative off-site impacts caused by increased oil and gas development in or near Delta County. The county’s maintenance of Forest Service Road 265 within Delta County, under

an agreement with the Forest Service, is affected by the proposed plan. The county requests that the county be consulted for support roads and existing roads, and that county road standards be adhered to and maintained. It is likely that Stevens Gulch Road, similarly maintained, may also be used at times in support of the NFMMDP, which will also be of concern for the county. The county requests the EA acknowledge and address any impact of the project on these roads, even if the ultimate use will be limited. Wildfire and emergency preparedness. The board stresses that all measures necessary to minimize wildfire hazards due to the proposed operations be imposed through the approval of the plan. This is an area with private property and where mutual support by county emergency resources and fire districts would be available, utilized and expected. Recreation and tourism. The areas around the project on both Forest Service and BLM lands are key recre-

ational areas on the eastern side of Grand Mesa, served by the county and its towns. The county emphasizes the need to provide for minimal interruption and delays on Forest Service roads during development under the plan. Any negative impact on recreation or on tourists is of major concern as that impact extends beyond the unit boundaries and into the surrounding economy of Delta County. Air quality, soils and erosion. Delta County stresses the need for adequate measures in the EA to curb any degradation to the soils, and run off or dust-related issues, tied to operations during normal and heavy weather conditions. and Socio-economic cultural resources. Delta County recognizes the socioeconomic benefits of energy development to our nation and our communities. It is also understood that such development impacts other important economic sectors in our communities, such as recreation and tourism. All such impacts should be addressed. NORTH FORK TO A3

Charges dropped

Public hearing scheduled

Primary election

Charges have been dropped against Robert “Bob” Neirinckx of Delta, with prejudice. Neirinckx was charged with manslaughter, a class 4 felony, following the death of John Spinelli on Friday, June 1. Neirinckx was apparently attempting to restrain Spinelli, holding him on the ground until law enforcement could arrive, when Spinelli died. According to Delta County Sheriff Fred McKee, the charges were dismissed with prejudice, meaning they can be refiled once the sheriff’s investigation has been completed.

A public hearing will be held Monday, June 25, at 1:30 p.m. to consider a proposal for the North Fork Ambulance Health Service District. If the service plan is approved by the Delta County Commissioners, the question of organization of the North Fork Ambulance Health District will be presented to voters in the November election. Voters will be asked to approve a maximum levy of 5.75 mills to fund ambulance services to an area encompassing 1,550 square miles. The service plan and a description of district boundaries can be found at www.deltacounty.com. The hearing will be conducted in Room 236 of the Delta County Courthouse, 501 Palmer St.

The polling center in the Delta County Courthouse will be open Saturday, June 23, from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. for voters who wish to vote in person. The polling center will also be open Election Day (Tuesday, June 26) from 7 a.m. until 7 p.m. Regular business hours are 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. You can find 24hour mail dropoff locations outside the courthouse, at the North Fork Annex, 196 W. Hotchkiss Avenue in Hotchkiss, and at the Cedaredge Library.

A2 Wednesday, June 20, 2018

OPINION

LETTERS Big fans of North Fork Ambulance Dear Editor: On the night of May 25, for all practical purposes, I was dead on the floor of my own home. As a 60year-old man in (what I thought was) relatively good health, I’d suffered both cardiac arrest and respiratory failure. My wife started CPR and my son called 911. As God would so ordain, Chris and Sandy Brown (local EMTs) rushed to my home and took over CPR and performed other invasive medical procedures in order to get me stabilized. I feel it

important to note that Chris and Sandy came even though they were not “on call” that evening. Other Advanced Life Support crew members soon arrived to help in my time of need. It is very comforting for us to know that citizens of Crawford have local EMTs, to help us (as opposed to if they had to drive the 12 minutes, one way, from Hotchkiss). After getting me stabilized, I was then transported via ambulance to Hotchkiss, so that I could be CareFlighted

on to St. Mary’s Hospital in Grand Junction. If it wasn’t for the closeness at hand, the quick thinking and diligent training that the local EMT’s and the Advanced Life Support crew members had gone through, I dare say I wouldn’t be writing this letter today. We were already regular members of (and a big fans of) North Fork Ambulance. Witnessing their diligence and expertise, now we’re even bigger fans! Jeff Peed Crawford

Citizens Police Academy was well worth the time Dear Editor: You could go to an Avengers movie, but we have our own heroes and they are way cooler. Starting on March 1, I attended my first class of a 10-week course called Citizens Police Academy. CPA was put on by the men and women of the Delta County Sheriff ’s Office. Here is where we learned about the life they live, “To Protect And To Serve.” Like a band of brothers/sisters, their sense of purpose drove the agenda, you can feel it when you enter the classroom. To protect and to serve, it’s not a cliche, it’s a way of life for those dedicated to making a

difference for “our” way of life. The purpose of the Citizens Police Academy is to develop a connection of understanding with the citizens of the county and sheriff ’s office, dispelling the “us against them stigma” that has been misrepresenting law enforcement for too many generations. I always felt respected, and it caused me to remind myself that cops are citizens too. Let us not forget that they too are sons and daughters that were brought into this world by proud parents just like you and me. I’m not going to spoil the fun by telling too

DELTA COUNTY

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there are treatments for many which can substantively improve the lives of us with these conditions. Before the Affordable Care Act was passed, insurance companies were, on the one hand, forthcoming about how they did not cover pre-existing conditions. For example, several times when I enrolled in employer-provided preACA health insurance, it was made clear to me by the company HR person that pregnancy was not covered for 10 months. While my family had to live without pregnancy care for the first 10 months, I did not get a break on price for those first 10 months. And no thought was given to the fact that the lack of care during pregnancy raised significantly the risk of both birth defects and life-threatening conditions in my wife. That was just the way it was. On the other hand, there were many times when people who had been paying health insurance for years were denied claims because the health insurance company would find some way to weasel out of covering the condition. “You have breast cancer? It was probably because you smoked a cigarette when you were 16 years old.” This is the world these GOP attorneys general want us all to go back to. Put another way, a win for them in this case “Makes America Great Again.” It is, after all, about winning. But wait. The preamble to our Constitution talks about promoting general welfare. These are not just fancy words. In Ellis v. City of Grand Rapids, the City of Grand Rapids used eminent domain to force sale of property to the Catholic Church so that they could build a hospital. In that ruling, the court called out the preamble’s reference to “promot[ing] the general welfare” in its (the court’s) assertion that “the health of the people was in the minds of our forefathers.” The court went on to state, “The concerted effort for renewal and expansion of hospital and medical care centers, as a part of our nation’s system of

Nelson is the candidate we’ve been waiting for Dear Editor: Why am I voting for Teresa Nelson for county commissioner? I want a county commissioner who understands the importance of God, family and community. Someone who supports the Constitution as written, no exceptions! Someone who knows exactly what their values and principles are and will stand by them, who understands the concept of “personal responsibility.” Someone who is a strong supporter of private property rights and understands the critical need to protect our water. These are the very cornerstones of a smart agricultural policy. Someone that believes our govern-

ment needs to be smaller, smarter and more efficient, someone who support all business, both new and old, which will give our younger generations the opportunity to stay and thrive in Delta County. Someone who will represent the average person, not just go along with the “good old boys.” I have had the privilege of attending many meet-and-greets and other functions. At these, I have seen Teresa be very engaging, truly graceful under pressure, ask great questions and listen to everyone’s concerns, whether they support her or not. This shows me that she not only wants

to hear different viewpoints, but cares about what we think and values our opinions. She has a great way of considering all sides of an issue and looking for possible solutions. If you have not had the opportunity to meet or talk with Teresa I encourage you to do so before you cast your vote. I think you will agree that Teresa is the candidate we have been waiting for. I am voting for Teresa Nelson because she is a smart, young, energetic, creative, principled conservative, and I believe she will do a great job of representing me and you! Ron Murphy Delta

Qualified teachers should be armed Dear Editor: As a candidate for state House of Representatives HD61 the League of Women Voters, as one of only three questions, asked the following: What proposals would you pursue to secure student safety in schools? Here is my answer: I am in favor of training and certifying at state expense, school staff, who have had military or police training and want to carry concealed. Schools should

much, but I will say this, I had so much fun I started calling it “my therapy night.” If you would like to attend classes look for the announcement in the Delta County Independent next spring. Special thanks to Deputy Gates Shaklee, aka Shak, for his leadership and of course, to the deputies that run our county jail, our amazing 911 dispatchers, finally, all the personnel that participated in our training. I think I can speak for all of my classmates when I say to our warriors that From the Delta Police protect and serve, “We Department: got your back.” Scott Schaible June 10: Delta Officers took a report of an

not be sitting ducks which they presently are. Our local sheriff recommends biannual training and certification for those that do volunteer. He estimates the cost at $300 per year per volunteer using the same person that trains and certifies his officers. We just can’t afford multiple full time “resource officers.” This way a potential killer faces an unknown force as the number of school staff volunteering would

be kept secret. The government by the Second Amendment and the unalienable right to self-defense does not have the right to disarm the public. If we are to do anything about school safety we must protect our children. It is a misnomer to say “Gun free zone” as that only means those inside are defenseless sitting ducks to one bent on killing them. Mike Mason Cedaredge

Law enforcement blotter

Pre-existing health conditions should be covered Dear Editor: Recent news reports indicate that a suit has been filed by attorneys general of 20 states charging that the Affordable Care Act is unconstitutional. All 20 of those attorneys general are Republican. In particular, they object to the mandate that pre-existing conditions be covered by health insurance policies. All humans have two things in common: One, we are all born through no choice of our own, and two, we have no choice in the set of genetic material we are endowed with at birth. Many of us are born with severe, and immediately obvious, conditions: spina bifida, Down syndrome, hole in the heart (which Jimmy Kimmel’s son was afflicted by). Other genetic conditions do not manifest for years or decades: Some forms of breast cancer, arthritis, heart failure. And some conditions we simply do not yet know the cause of: some seizure disorders, autoimmune disorders, Parkinson’s disease. The causes of these may be genetic, or environmental, or some combination of both. Beyond this, things happen through no fault of our own: We may be injured by a drunk driver; we may get bit by a West Nile-infected mosquito; we may consume tainted food. Kaiser Family Foundation estimates that 27 percent of people under age 65 have some preexisting condition. While there may not be cures for all of these conditions,

Delta County Independent

hospitals, is as a public service and use within the highest meaning of such terms.” Back to the suit, these 20 GOP attorneys general believe America would be better if insurance companies were able to sell policies which will not cover the conditions of more than one in four Americans. This is a bold assertion, I know. But consider that all of the replacements to the Affordable Care Act proposed by the GOP in 2017 would have resulted in fewer people covered, and those covered would have paid more for the equivalent coverage provided by the policies under the Affordable Care Act. Thanks to a few brave and moral Republican legislators, those bills were turned down and the Affordable Care Act is still the law. But these attorneys general, and apparently the majority of Republican congressman and senators, want to use other means to deny American citizens of mandatory coverage for pre-existing conditions. I ask that as you vote this year, remember that voting for somebody hostile to mandatory pre-existing coverage is a vote for one in four of your family being denied health insurance coverage. Joseph McGill Cedaredge

A simple step can make a community more inviting Dear Editor: A couple of years ago I was passing through Flagstaff. It felt different than many of the towns I went through. It had a pleasance that is missing in many small towns. One difference I noticed was the street gutters were clean. A simple thing Cedaredge could do to make the town feel cleaner and more inviting is sweep the trash off the edge of the streets. Robert Meddock Cedaredge

abandoned vehicle at Confluence Park. Alison S. Manzanares, 21, of Delta was arrested and jailed on an outstanding Colorado State Patrol warrant with a bond of $625. Officers took a report of a possible sexual assault on a child on Heinz Street. Lyle J. Cooper, 37, of Cedaredge was arrested and jailed on charges of driving under the influence of alcohol, driving under the influence of alcohol per se and displayed expired license plates. June 11: Officers responded to the intersection of Highway 50 and Ute Street for a twovehicle traffic accident. Jesus Z. Chavez, 67, of Delta was issued a citation for careless driving. Officers responded to Taco Time for a report of a possible stolen dog. The dog was later located by the owner. Officers assisted the Center for Mental Health by attempting to locate a female for them in the Delta area. June 12: Officers responded to 7110 Highway 50, on a report of possible shots being fired. Adam M. Kenniger, 33, of Delta was arrested and jailed for possession of a weapon by a previous offender, prohibited use of a firearm and violation of a protection order. Officers responded to the 1500 block of H25 Road for a report of a burglary. Officers responded to the 700 block of 1550 Road for a theft report. Tina M. Jewell, 23, of Eckert was issued a summons for child abuse. Officers took a report of possible sexual assault on a child that allegedly occurred in the area of East 3rd Street. Officers responded to the 600 block of Labor Street for a dog bite. Officers assisted the Delta County Sheriff’s Office with a combative male in Hotchkiss. Officers responded to Hartig Drive on a report of a possible assault. A 12-yearold male was arrested for menacing, assault in the third degree x2 and criminal mischief (property damage). June 13: Officers responded to 940 Highway 92, Advanced Auto Parts, for a report of property damage. Officers responded to the 500 block of North Palmer Street for a possible protection order violation. Officers responded to parking lot behind 438 Main Street for a private property traffic accident. Officers took an informational report in regards to suspicious circumstances reported to have occurred at McDonald’s. Officers responded to Quality Inn Hotel for a report of an altercation between a male and female. No charges were filed. Officers responded to 1675 Highway 92, Valley Sunset RV Park, for a private property accident. Anthony J.J. Johnson, 36, of Delta was issued a summons for expired driver’s license and failed to provide evidence of insurance. June 14: Officers responded to a two-vehicle traffic accident at the intersection of High-

way 50 and Confluence Drive North. Ma Lay, 43, of Delta was issued a citation for failure to drive in a single lane (weaving). Officers responded to Delta County Memorial Hospital for a report of a possible assault. Officers were given a purse that was found at Days Inn. The purse and its contents were placed into evidence for safekeeping. Officers took a report of a possibly stolen cell phone from the Delta Library. Alan S. Hawk, 43, of Delta was arrested and jailed for an outstanding warrant with a bond of $1,000. Lindsey S. McKinney, 33, of Delta was arrested and jailed for an outstanding warrant with a bond of $1,000. June 15: Jimmy D. Atwood, 61, of Delta was arrested and jailed for an outstanding warrant with a bond of $300. Jose B. Suazo, 43, of Delta was arrested and jailed for an outstanding warrant with a bond of $500. Officers responded to Arby’s for a private property traffic accident. Paul W. Perrone, 72, of Delta was arrested and jailed on charges of harassment as an act of domestic violence. Michael J. Sexton, 36, of Austin was arrested for three outstanding warrants with no bond. June 16: Diana L. Fraser, 35, of Clifton was arrested and jailed on charges of deposited burning material on roadway and driving under the influence of alcohol. Officers responded to the 1600 block of H38 Road for a report of a possible stolen firearm. The female reporting the issue cursed officers on scene and refused to give any information. Officers responded to 40 Heinz for a report of a dog bite. Officers assisted the Delta County Sheriff’s Office with a protection order violation that occurred near the Town of Paonia. Citations: Eighteen 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): June 11: An Austin resident reported the theft of a chainsaw. Deputies were asked to meet a representative of DMEA at a house on Cliff View Road, Delta. They discovered the meter box had been forced open and two makeshift jumper wires had been connected to restore power to the house. The home is vacant, leaving deputies to speculate it had been occupied by squatters. Deputies investigated a traffic accident involving a Horizons bus at the Senior CommUnity Care site in Eckert. Deputies and Delta firefighters responded to a small fire on B Road, Delta, at about 3:45 p.m. A small fire on the east side of the residence burned some bushes and damaged the siding on the garage. The fire was quickly extinguished. The cause of the fire has not been determined.

Deputies were dispatched to a water dispute involving a locked head gate. One of the property owners had allegedly cut the lock off. June 12: Deputies assisted the Delta Police Department with a call at 7110 Highway 50, Delta. Adam Kenniger, 33, allegedly fired several rounds from a shotgun. A resident of 2200 Road, Delta, shot a pit bull after it attacked his flock of sheep, killing four and badly injuring a fifth, a loss estimated at $1,000. A black lab was also spotted in the pasture. The owner of the dogs has not been located. A loud argument from a trailer on Main Street in Austin drew the attention of a concerned citizen. Deputies determined there had been no physical contact between the male and female parties. No action was taken. June 13: Kenneth Gallob, 34, of Hotchkiss was charged with criminal mischief, domestic violence and violation of a restraining order after an incident at his home, which he was prohibited from visiting. The previous evening he had been served with a restraining order while his wife and children sought safety elsewhere. Before leaving the house, he plugged up the sinks and left the water on, causing the house to flood. He allegedly violated the restraining order twice before, including one time from jail. Deputies were dispatched to a home on Tessman Road, Delta, after a 13-yearold female allegedly hit her grandfather in the face. No arrests were made. June 15: An Orchard City resident reported that two vehicles parked at her home had been broken into. The vehicles were ransacked, her purse was missing and she believed the suspect may also have taken some gas. A Delta area woman sought advice about a check she’d received in payment for a puppy. The buyer was from Utah and there were insufficient funds in his checking account. Deputies were dispatched to NE Indian Camp Avenue, Cedaredge, on a report of vicious dogs. The dogs reportedly killed another dog last year. The investigation is continuing. A personal safe and other items reported stolen from a business in Delta, Utah, were recovered on BLM land just off Highway 50 north of Delta. An Austin area resident reported the theft of a hunting knife and other items from his vehicle. June 16: A great deal of black smoke was reported on Farmers Mine Road, just below the Fire Mountain Canal near Paonia. When deputies arrived on scene at 4:52 p.m., about 15 minutes later, the smoke had dissipated. June 17: At 1:30 a.m., a single vehicle accident was reported on Lamborn Mesa Road near Paonia. Joseph Cunitz, 29, was taken into custody on suspicion of driving under the influence of alcohol. A Hotchkiss area resident reported the theft of his wallet from his vehicle. The wallet contained his driver’s license, credit cards and personal information.

LOCAL NEWS

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FROM PAGE A1 Final abandonment of a well and/or a pad. Delta County believes that the final abandonment of the wells and reclamation should be done in a timely manner. The EA lists one year for the final abandonment. That is reasonable; however, Delta County believes that follow-up needs to occur to ensure that timelines are met. The commissioners expressed support for any master development plan that provides prior understanding of continuing oil and gas activities in these areas, over well-by-well development activities. The commissioners emphasized that recognition of offsite impacts, and anticipated mitigation of any potential accumulative negative effects from development of this size, are very important to those who have adjacent property, or depend on and use the resources originating on the surrounding areas. The commissioners expressed appreciation for the opportunity to

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comment on the proposed NFMMDP and stated their support for that project moving forward, while addressing the concerns and mitigation

measures listed above. They noted that previously mentioned concerns of Delta County have been exhaustively documented in the EA.

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Photo by Pat Sunderland

Farmer’s market opens

A sure sign of summer are the farmer’s markets opening throughout the county. In Delta, vendors set up in the parking lot at 5th and Meeker Wednesday and Saturday mornings from 8 a.m. to noon.

corporated Delta County and limit to 12 plants per residential property regardless of the number of persons residing on the property. Following are some typical questions the sheriff ’s office has received. Q: I have a medical marijuana card and a doctor signed a variance of 99 plants. Am I allowed to grow 99 plants on my property located in the county? A: No, just 12 plants per residential property Q: I have 30 acres of farm land. There is no house on the property. Can I grow marijuana on my property? A: No, marijuana can only be legally grown on property that is listed as residential property through the Delta County assessor’s office. Q: What about hemp? A: A person who has registered their hemp growing operation through the Department of Agriculture and follows the DOA regulations can grow as much hemp as they like. If the plants contain more THC than allowed through the DOA regulations then the hemp will be considered marijuana and the grow

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Paul Stockwell with his dog Silas

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Chamber director

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FROM PAGE A1 very “hands-on” and has done much of the groundwork, with support from former executive director Darnell Place-Wise. Stockwell said he is looking forward to the summer happenings, because he believes there should be an element of fun in every job. Stockwell was raised in Illinois and moved to Colorado 10 years ago.

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Marijuana Q & A In recent weeks the Delta County Sheriff ’s Office has received numerous phone calls from people asking how many marijuana plants can be grown legally. The answer is 12 plants in or on a residential property in the unincorporated portions of Delta County. It is not legal to grow marijuana in Delta County on a non-residential property. Marijuana laws have changed effective Jan. 1 and will be strictly enforced. As of that date, Colorado state law states that a maximum of 12 marijuana plants can be cultivated, grown, or produced on or in a residential property, regardless whether it is for medical or recreational purposes. This includes all medical variances signed by a medical doctor, unless a county, municipality, or city and county law expressly permits the cultivation of more than 12 plants. The county commissioners have adopted an ordinance which mirrors the state law by limiting the cultivation, growth or production of marijuana plants to a residential property within unin-

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Wednesday, June 20, 2018

He and his wife quickly tired of the hectic pace on the Front Range and were delighted to find some acreage in the Olathe area with room for chickens, ducks, goats, a horse, their dogs and a large garden. “We found just what we were looking for,” he said. At that juncture, neither he nor his wife had a job. Instead they made a leap of faith — the same leap of faith they made when they moved from Illinois. “I’m so glad we did,” he said. Monday was Stockwell’s first day on the job, and with the Bicycle Tour of Colorado just a few days out, plus the usual influx of summer visitors stopping by the chamber office at 301 Main, he wasted no time getting down to work.

will be considered a marijuana cultivation operation subject to violations of state law. Q: Do I have to cover my 12 marijuana plants? A: Yes, any marijuana grown outside must be in an enclosed structure on all sides including the roof. It can be permanent or temporary. The entry and exit points must be lockable. Marijuana grown indoors where a person under the age of 21 resides or visits must be behind locked doors and not in a location where the person under 21 could have access.

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A4 Wednesday, June 20, 2018

ACCENT

There’s still time to register for summer reading program

PONY CAMP THIS WEEKEND June 22-24

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Ruth Miller

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Delta County Independent

Ruth Miller turns 90 The daughters of Ruth Miller will be celebrating her 90th birthday on July 5. Ruth and Jack Miller retired in Eckert, where they have a beautiful yard and small orchard. Ruth is understandably proud of the work they put into their yard. She enjoys reading cards she gets for Christmas and her birthday, and her daughters would like to see her get 90 cards for her 90th birthday. If you would like to help, please mail a birthday card to her at 12966 Eckert Estate Rd., Eckert, CO 81418. The whole family would be very thankful.

Nearly 700 kids in Delta County have registered for the 2018 summer reading program “Libraries Rock.” “We are pleased to report that our registration numbers have already exceeded last year and there is still plenty of time to register,” says LaDonna Gunn, assistant district director of Delta County Libraries. “Just visit one of our five libraries or go online to sign up and join the fun!” Since the first week in June, musical-themed programs and activities have enticed kids and their families or caretakers to visit the five libraries. Ice cream socials, banjo making, Kazooplaying, drum circles, storytimes, and scavenger hunts have provided participants a muchneeded escape from the heat outdoors. “We also want the community to know that families can participate from home if they are unable to make it to the library for programs,” says Gunn. “And they will still have the opportunity to earn a T-shirt and other prizes, like books and gift certificates.”

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Musical-themed programs and activities at all ﬁve Delta County Libraries offer families a fun diversion from the summer heat. Registration for the 2018 summer reading program is still open and can be done in person or online at deltalibraries.org, “Summer Reading.” Lea Hart, district director of Delta County Libraries, stresses the important role the community plays in making the program possible. “We are able to offer such an excellent program, with incentives for reading and no registration fees, in large part because of very gener-

ous community support. Many organizations, businesses, and individuals have sponsored kids and volunteered their time to make this program possible.” Register today or offer your support by visiting your library or www. delta libraries.org, “Summer Reading.”

Fundraiser dinner, dance planned The family of Dora Valdez is holding a benefit dinner and dance to help with medical expenses associated with a disease

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of the liver known as NASH. NASH is a nonalcoholic steatohepatitis disease that causes inflammation and damage of the liver. Enjoy a night of fun Saturday, June 23, while you help raise funds for Valdez, a lifelong resident of Delta. Dinner will be served at the Delta Elks Lodge #1235 from 4 to 6 p.m. The dance will follow from 8 p.m. to midnight. An auction is also planned. Admission to the dinner and dance is $15. The dinner only is $7 each; kids under the age of 5 eat free. Admission to the dance is $10 per person.

PEOPLE IN THE NEWS Jennifer Campbell of Delta was awarded a bachelor of science degree in biology and psychology during spring commencement ceremonies at Baylor University. Located in Waco, Texas, Baylor University is the oldest continuously operating university in Texas. Degrees were conferred on a record number of nearly 3,000 graduates during commencement exercises May 11-12.

BIRTHS Falicity and Hector Huerta of Delta are the parents of a daughter, Xaedrienna Guadalupe Huerta, born June 8, 2018, at Delta County Memorial Hospital. She weighed 7 pounds, 13 ounces and was 20 inches in length. Kory and Rachelle Smith of Eckert are the parents of a daughter, Emilee Grace Smith, born June 11, 2018, at Delta County Memorial Hospital. She weighed 7 pounds, 6.6 ounces and was 19 inches in length. Brandon and Emeline Bassett of Crawford are the parents of a son, Dawson Michael Earl Bassett, born June 12, 2018, at Delta County Memorial Hospital. He weighed 7 pounds, 15 ounces and was 20.5 inches in length.

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Father’s Day arrival

Juan Carlos Barajas, a DCMH employee, and Elvia of Cedaredge welcomed baby boy Javier on Father’s Day. He was born at Delta County Memorial Hospital Sunday, June 17, at 10:28 p.m. He weighed 7 pounds, 13.2 ounces and was 20.5 inches in length. The Black Mesa Cattlewomen, based in the North Fork Valley generously provided a Father’s Day gift basket with assorted baby items, toys, books and some beef jerky for Mom and Dad.

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Jeremiah and Maia Weber of Hotchkiss are Sponsored by: the parents of a daughter, McKinley Jo Weber, born June 13, 2018, at Delta County Memorial Hospital. She weighed 6 pounds, 15.4 ounces and �� was 19 inches in length.

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LOCAL NEWS

Delta County Independent

Wednesday, June 20, 2018

Singers sought for 4th of July performance

Getting a lift from DMEA

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Vision Charter Academy learners in grades 2-8 participated in an egg drop contest to study physics and celebrate spring. Students had the opportunity to build an egg-traption. Each learner designed it using math, science, and physics with the goal of an egg surviving a drop of 50 feet. Students spent two days designing, building and testing their contraptions, learning about mass, force, gravity and materials. On day three the students had the opportunity to go up in a bucket lift truck provided by DMEA to test their egg saving contraption. Most of them survived! Thanks to DMEA for helping us out with this exploration!

Richard Weldon of the Arts Coalition of Delta County will lead a performance of patriotic music in Confluence Park prior to the fireworks display on the 4th of July. The presentation is titled “This Is My America,” and includes popular patriotic songs arranged by Richard Kingsmore. Singers are sought to perform “This is My America,” “America,” “You’re A Grand Old Flag,” “God of our Fathers,” the “Battle Hymn of the Republic,” “America the Beautiful” and more. It will be helpful if singers have some experience and have previ-

ously sung in a choir. Six rehearsals are scheduled — June 26, 28, 29 and 30, and July 1 and 3. Just three of the six rehearsals are required. Church choir members and all other interested singers should contact Weldon at 640-6520

or weldon814162944@ yahoo.com for additional details. Choir members are asked to see if their church can be used for one or two rehearsals. “We would like to have more than one location for rehearsals,” Weldon commented.

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Randy Shetley

Shetley retires All As, all year

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Congratulations to the following Lincoln Elementary students who earned all A’s the entire school year. They were recognized at the fourth quarter ROAR assembly on Thursday, May 24: Bailey Martinez, Aadrey Fraser, Paige Kehmeir, Jazlyn Naranjo, Izzy Long, Parker Barnard, Grady Hellman, David Candelario, Landen Ficklin, Jhett Ryan, Jenna Neely and Logan Sheets. Not pictured: Vanesa Ramirez.

County implements Stage 2 fire restrictions Due to a combination of record high temperatures, low humidity and high winds, the Delta County Board of County Commissioners signed a resolution implementing Stage 2 Fire Restrictions for the unincorporated areas of the county, effective Monday, June 18, until further notice. These restrictions do not apply to the municipalities within the county; municipalities may have their own fire restrictions in place. Stage 2 fire restrictions include restrictions on all open fires, defined as all outdoor fires, including, but not limited to agricultural burning, campfires, fire pits, welding or use of a torch outdoors, warming fires, explosives, fireworks of all kinds and brands (except with a permit issued pursuant to state or municipal laws) and the prescribed burning of fence rows, wildlands, trash, and debris, use of tracer or incendiary ammunition, and charcoal fires. The restrictions do not include gas barbecues or gas fueled stoves or heating devices. Also prohibited is the operation of a chain saw without a USDA or SAE approved spark arresting device properly installed and in effective working order, and having a chemical pressurized fire extinguisher of not less than 8 ounces capacity by weight, and possessing one large size

pointed shovel with an overall length of at least 36 inches. The extinguisher shall be with the chain saw operator. The shovel may be kept with the fueling supplies but readily available for quick use. Persons found violating the new restrictions may be cited into Delta County Court and, upon conviction, incur fines and costs. In addition, should the violation of this resolution result in a fire, the violator shall be responsible to reimburse the expenses incurred in extinguishing the fire. By implementing these restrictions, the commissioners hope to avoid as many humancaused fires as possible and request outdoor users to be extremely careful with all burnable materials, especially cigarettes. Delta County’s decision to move to Stage 2 Fire Restrictions follows that of Montrose, San Miguel, and Ouray counties, as well as the Gunnison and Uncompahgre National Forests and the BLM Uncompahgre Field Office. Due to higher fuel moisture measurements and a low/moderate fire danger level the Grand Mesa National Forest will NOT be implementing any fire restrictions at this time. For a complete listing of restrictions and links to official information, please visit www.west slopefireinfo.com.

Hellman’s awards FFA scholarships The Colorado FFA Foundation is proud to announce 16 worthy recipients will receive scholarships from the foundation and its supporting partners. Additionally, 29 Colorado FFA members were awarded scholarships from the National FFA Organization. Scholarships are sponsored by businesses and individuals through the Colorado FFA Foundation and the National FFA Foundation and are given for a wide variety of experiences, career

goals and higher education plans. The selection process takes into account the whole student — FFA involvement, work experience, supervised agricultural experience (SAE), community service, leadership skills and academics. Hellman Motor Company sponsored three $1,000 Built Ford Tough scholarships, which were awarded to Ricardo Lopez, Cedaredge FFA; Morgan Miller, Hotchkiss FFA; and Nathan Stumpf, Cedaredge FFA.

After working in the Brand Inspection Division for 36 years, Randy Shetley is retiring. He will be honored at a retirement celebration Saturday, June 30. The public is invited to an open house at Pea Green Community Hall from 1 to 4 p.m.

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A6 Wednesday, June 20, 2018

Regina Barr

Regina May Barr died Saturday, June 16, 2018. She was 89. A celebration of life will be held at 10 a.m. Thursday, June 21, at the Gunnison Valley Church of the Nazarene. Entombment will follow at the Mesa View Cemetery columbarium. Regina May Oliver was born in Delta March 9, 1929, to Charles and LaVeta (Jennings) Oliver. She grew up and attended school in Montrose, graduating from Montrose High School in 1947. She went to college in Texas, majoring in English and drama. She then went East and spent several years in summer stock and off Broadway plays as an actress before teaching high school English and drama in Powell, Wyo., and Cortez. She married John Barr in 1967 in Boston, Mass. When he retired, they moved to Sedona, Ariz. After his death, Mrs. Barr went back to school to study Christian theolo-

OBITUARIES gy at the Nazarene Bible College, which led to her work with missionaries in Papua, New Guinea, for three years. After returning to the US., she moved to Delta to be close to family. She is survived by her stepson, John Barr of Ardmore, Pa.; stepdaughter, Helen Barr of New Zealand; three stepgrandchildren, David Barr and Pam and Lea Niskanen; sister, Mary Jo (Bill) Chaffee of Delta; brother, Charles “Skip” (Sharon) Oliver of Elizabeth; and extended family. She was preceded in death by her husband and two sisters, Wilma Harris and Kennadine Duncan. Memorial contributions may be made to Gunnison Valley Church of the Nazarene, 1791 H Road, Delta, CO 81416, or to HopeWest, PO Box 24, Delta, CO 81416. Taylor Funeral Service and Crematory is handling the arrangements. Visit the internet obituary and sign the online guest registry at www. taylorfuneralservice.com.

school and graduated from Lincoln Senior High School in 1978. After high school, he attended Western Dakota Tech in Rapid City, S.D. He enjoyed cars, Harley Davidson motorcycles, camping, four-wheeling and being outdoors. He also cared for rescue center animals. Mr. Wibben is survived by three brothers, Larry (Elaine) Wibben of Tulsa, Okla., David (Barb) Wibben of Luck, Wis., and Michael (Dara) Wibben of Colorado Springs; one sister, Margaret (Pete) Dlugosz of Silt; and extended family. He was preceded in death by his parents. Condolences may be sent to the Wibben family, c/o Michael Wibben, 5440 Roundup Drive, Colorado Springs, CO 80918. Taylor Funeral Service and Crematory is handling the arrangements. Visit the internet obituary and sign the online guest registry at www. taylorfuneralservice.com.

Kevin Wibben

Austin resident Kevin G. Wibben died June 4, 2018, at his home. He was 57. He was born Aug. 12, 1960, in Sioux Falls, S.D. to Willis and Rose (Wagner) Wibben. He spent his childhood in Sioux Falls where he attended

Delta County Independent

son, Jonathan Aragon of Delta; mother-in-law, Sylvia (Isador) Herrera; husband of 30 years, Robert Aragon; and two grandchildren, Jayden and Timothy Morris. A celebration of life will be held at Delta First Baptist Church, 1250 Pioneer Road, at 4 p.m. July 12.

Raymond Penick

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Longtime civic leader Raymond Lyle “Butch” Penick died Monday, June 18, 2018 at his residence in Delta, Colorado. He was 72. A funeral service will be held at 3 p.m. Friday, June 22, at Presbyterian Church in Delta. Interment will follow at Mesa View Cemetery in Delta, with Reverend Keri Shelton officiating. Mr. Penick was born Aug. 2, 1945, in Cedaredge, to Robert and Margaret (Schindler) Penick. He spent his childhood in Cedaredge where he attended school and graduated from Cedaredge High School with the class of 1963. After high school he went on to attend Colorado State University and San Francisco College of Mortuary Science. On June 13, 1970, he married Alice May Faules in Fort Collins. They moved from Grand Junction to Delta in 1985. Mr. Penick was an elder at Delta Presbyterian Church and member of the board, involved with CFDA, NFDA, Rotary, and IOOF-Cedaredge. He served several years on the Delta City Council. He enjoyed four wheeling, fishing, horses, and spending time with his family. He is survived by two sons, Mark Penick of Rathdrum, Idaho, and Jeff (Tori) Penick of San Diego, Calif.; two brothers, Robert “Jim” (Shannon) Penick of Cedaredge and Dave Penick of Eckert; four grandchildren; and one great-grandchild on the way. He was preceded in death by his parents; his wife of 42 years, Alice; and sister, Shirley. Memorial contributions may be made to PEO Chapter BK - Alice Penick nursing scholarship or Delta Presbyterian Church. Taylor Funeral Service and Crematory is handling the arrangements. Visit the internet obituary and sign the online guest registry at www. taylorfuneralservice.com.

Contact the DCI: Website: www.deltacountyindependent.com ��

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E-mail articles and letters to the editor at: editor@deltacountyindependent.com

Marilyn Honeycutt

Delta resident Marilyn Honeycutt died June 13, 2018, at her residence. She was 62. A celebration of life will be held at a later date. Taylor Funeral Service and Crematory is handling the arrangements. Visit the internet obituary and sign the online guest registry at www. taylorfuneralservice.com.

Sheldon Smart

Lifetime Delta County resident Shelden Glenn Smart died suddenly June 8, 2018, at Delta County Memorial Hospital. He was 48. He spent his childhood in Delta and graduated from Hotchkiss High School. Mr. Smart enjoyed listening to music, singing, dancing, telling jokes, bull riding, and spending time with family and friends. He is survived by his wife, Susan; mother, Linda; son, Gabe; and brother, Mike, all of Delta. He was preceded in death by his father, Mickey. A funeral service was held June 19 at First Baptist Church in Delta; burial followed at Delta City Cemetery. Crippin Funeral Home and Crematory handled the arrangements.

grandparents, Claudio and Manuelita Espinoza, who raised him. A rosary will be sung Saturday, June 23, at 9:30 a.m. Mass follows at 10 a.m. A barbecue will be held at Confluence Park from 11 a.m. to dusk. All family and friends are welcome.

Phil Espinoza

Phil Espinoza of La Sal, Utah, formerly of El Llano, N.M., died March 3, 2018, in Grand Junction. He was 73. He enjoyed spending time and fishing with his family. He is survived by sons, Martin and Dale of La Sal, Utah; ex-wife, Lucy of La Sal, Utah; sisters, Belen Maestas and Elizaida Quintana of Española, N.M., and Melinda Rubalcaba of Delta; brothers, Carlos Gonzales of El Rito, N.M., Clyde, Lawrence, Ricky, Louie and Danny Huff of Delta; uncles, Jose Espinoza and Horacio Manzanares. He was preceded in death by his daughters, Sheila and Sheri; mother, Matilde Huff; and his

Patriotic concert planned The patriotic community choir announces concerts June 28 at the Hotchkiss United Methodist Church and June 29 at the Cedaredge Community United Methodist Church. Both performances begin at 7 p.m. and will feature a variety of stirring patriotic music. Dress rehearsal will be at the Surface Creek Community Church Monday, June 25, also at 7 p.m. The public is invited.

PEOPLE Jennifer Aragon

Jennifer Aragon of Delta died June 12, 2018. She was 49. She was born in Garnet, Kan., to Gale and Betty Smith. She enjoyed being a mother, grandmother, wife and friend. She is survived by her sister, Vickey (Bob) of Ottawa, Kan.; two daughters, Teresa Morris-Aragon of Delta and Elizabeth (Robert) Hammett of Fort Worth, Texas;

The following local students were among those who received degrees from the University of Northern Colorado during spring 2018 commencement ceremonies May 4-5: Cedaredge — Megan Wick, bachelor of arts in elementary education. Crawford — Taylor Polson, bachelor of science in sport and exercise science, magna cum laude. Delta — Kristie Donathan, master of arts in special education; Madi-

IN THE NEWS

son Farmer, bachelor of arts in sociology; Jacob Solseth, bachelor of science in sport and exercise science. Hotchkiss — Nilam Hypio, bachelor of science in dietetics; Anne Stechert, bachelor of science in sport and exercise science, cum laude; Jessica Violett, bachelor of arts in elementary education, cum laude. Paonia — Skylar Simpson, bachelor of science in nursing, summa cum laude.

Wilda Aline Bruce July 18, 1933 ~ June 8, 2018 Wilda Aline Bruce was born on July 18, 1933. She died June 8, 2018, at the age of 84 due to complications from a damaged heart following surgery at Montrose Memorial Hospital. Wilda was the youngest of six children born to Walter (Walt) and Gertrude Harding where the family lived in the small coal mining town of Bowie, Colo. When Wilda was an infant, Walt moved the family from Bowie to Ft. Lupton to farm, growing sugar beets and garden produce. This was the perfect childhood for Wilda who loved working outdoors, helping her dad with the farm and riding her horse. She was her Dad’s “right-hand man.” Walt lovingly nicknamed her “Bud.” After years of losing crops in the Ft. Lupton area caused by the violent hail storms common to the eastern plains, the family returned to the Western Slope where Wilda finished high school in Paonia, class of 1951. Wilda’s desire was to pursue a career in nursing following in the footsteps of her older sister Bette’s path. She pursued as many courses in science as possible to pursue that goal. It was a huge disappointment in her later years that she was unable to achieve that goal. Because of this, she encouraged and supported all her children and grandchildren to continue educa-

tion beyond high school. After a short period of time living in Salt Lake City, Utah, with her sister Bette, Wilda returned to Paonia in the early 1950s. At that time, she met a dashing young man, Morris Bruce. Their first date was to paint a room in the farm house where she lived with her parents. This was a true sign of the future, as they spent many hours painting their houses in addition to those of their children. They were married in 1954 and had four children. They lived the majority of their lives raising their children in Paonia until the death of Morris in 1997. After Morris’ death, Wilda moved to Montrose, built a lovely home and she surrounded it with trees and hundreds of flowers. Her homes, whether in Paonia or Montrose, were always a gathering place for all her family. A wonderful place to “come home to” as expressed by everyone who knew her. Wilda adored her four

children, eight grandchildren and five greatgrandchildren and was truly interested and supportive of anything they were involved in, whether it was music, horses, nature, education or travel. She was always the person children would migrate towards and want to “stay with for the summer.” She was a great seamstress and made many of the dresses for her girls including prom and wedding dresses. Additionally, Wilda’s quilts were truly one of a kind. She was the matriarch of the family. There was never a summer without cousins, picnics, and rides to the mountains. Holidays were frequently shared with extended family celebrations; they all relished and looked forward to her wonderful cooking. Wilda made the best pies on the Western Slope!! As felt by all who knew Wilda: “It was an honor to know and love this wonderful soul.” Wilda is survived by three of her four children: Criselle Tuckel of Sedalia, Morris Clayton Bruce of Montrose and Sandra Scott of Dubai; her eight grandchildren and five great-grandchildren. Graveside services will be held Wednesday the 20th of June at 10 a.m. at Cedar Hill Cemetery in Paonia. Picnic will follow at the Paonia Park. Paid obituary

Delta County Independent

ACTIVITIES

Wednesday, June 20, 2018

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The Montrose Amateur Radio Club will participate in the nationwide Field Day on Saturday and Sunday, June 23 and 24, on Sunset Mesa in Montrose. The event which is open to the public is a display of ham radio’s ability to provide communications completely independent of infrastructure such as powerlines, cell phones or internet. According to Ken Herrick, president of the club, “This ability to provide communications can be extremely important during emergencies and disasters. Recently this was demonstrated in Puerto Rico where hams provided essential communications following a series of disastrous storms that made normal communications inoperable.” To reach Field Day

Public invited to Toastmasters event Black Canyon Voices Toastmasters invites the public to its open house to meet members and watch special guest speaker, Doug Speedie, MD, medical director at PACE, Volunteers of America talk about the importance of communication skills for today’s professional. “Black Canyon Voices Toastmasters provides a supportive and positive environment where members have the opportunity to develop their communication and leadership skills,” says Edith Johnston, club vice president of public relations. Members and guests will enjoy a regular Toastmasters meeting that will include Speedie’s speech,

Fly tyers gather monthly Gunnison Gorge Anglers Thirsty Thursday Tyers Table (4T) will be seating June 28, 6 p.m., at the Welcome Home Alliance for Veterans, 4 S. Park Street, Montrose. The theme for June is Golden Stones. Bring your tools and materials to tie your favorite Golden Stone pattern, surface or subsurface. All tying experience levels welcome. Once again, a materials pack with enough materials to tye (sic) five flies will be available to purchase for $5. The materials pack will be for the fly pictured, the Hook Up Golden Stone. The Hook Up Golden Stone uses a dubbing loop for the thorax, so if you plan to purchase the materials pack, be sure to bring a dubbing loop twister.

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drive west on West Main Street, turn left on Chipeta Drive and then turn left again onto Sunset Mesa. Climb the hill and look for the antennas on the north end of the mesa. For hams visiting the site the talk-in frequency is the Cedaredge repeater of 147.195+, tone: 107. “We will be ready to operate by noon on Saturday and will continue to operate until noon on Sunday. Saturday afternoon would be a great time to pay us a visit and see ham radio in action. There will even be an opportunity for non-hams to get on the air,” said Herrick. The Montrose Amateur Radio Club includes several members from Delta County. Founded in 1956, the club is affiliated with the American Radio Relay League, the

Hook Up Golden Stone

Table Topics™ (impromptu speeches) and evaluations. Corey Rupp will serve as toastmaster for the meeting. Peter Sullivan, who has served in various club positions, will be the Table Topics master. “Table Topics are one of my favorite parts of the meeting,” says Sullivan. “This is where guests and members are randomly selected to speak for one to two minutes. It helps you think and speak clearly on your feet.” The open house will take place Thursday, June 21, at First Colorado National Bank, 150 Gunnison River Drive, from 12:15 to 1:15 p.m. For more information, email Edith Johnston at blackcanyonvoicestm@ gmail.com or visit https:// blackcanyonvoices. toastmastersclubs.org/.

Climb to new heights

national organization for French at 970-417-6142 amateur radio. For more or visit http://www.arrl. information contact Lew org/field-day.

The Scones

Scones perform at Chapel of the Cross The Scones will perform at the Chapel of the Cross in Cedaredge on Sunday, June 24, at 4 p.m. Admission is by donation. Best known for their big harmonies, great stage show, and acoustic guitar gymnastics, The Scones bring a fresh new sound to the music scene. Greatly influenced by the music of the 1960s, the band has penned award winning songs (Kerrville Folk Festival 2xs & American Songwriting Contest) that are remi-

Shelley Rae’s songs inspire conversation Shelley Rae will perform at the Chapel of the Cross in Cedaredge on Thursday, June 28, at 7 p.m. Admission is by donation. Shelley Rae Korntved sang as she learned to speak, stomped her foot at five years old and declared, she was going to play guitar! Four years later she got her wish in the form of a used Stella Harmony. Her dad told her, “Singers are a dime a dozen, you need to write your own songs, kid.” So, at 10 years old, she did.

Bill Heddles Recreation Center is hosting open climbs every Wednesday from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. During the month of June, the climbing wall will open Mondays and Thursdays, 5 to 8 p.m., at Confluence Fields. The recreation center will also offer a four-week session of climbing lessons, July 11 to Aug. 1, from 9 to 11 a.m. Sign up at the front desk or call 874-0923.

Her wide range of influences and muses include Bob Marley, Heart, Stevie Nicks, Red Hot Chili Peppers, Simon and Garfunkel, and Ani DiFranco to name a few. Shelley’s songs map out the journey of her life — family, the environment, anti-love songs, true love songs, and her deep discontent with the state of affairs in our world. She is a fearless performer and will belt out tunes accompanied by her percussive rhythm guitar style. At 51 she still dreams of saving the planet “one song at a time.” Realistically, she hopes her words will inspire conversation to bring folks together.

‘Trap a crook’ fundraiser planned

Shelley Rae

Volunteers sought to build Grand Mesa trail On June 23-24, Antonelli’s Advanced Automotive is teaming up with COPMOBA and the Grand Valley Forest Service Range District to build the Crane Lake trail on Grand Mesa. If you like to hike, ride or horseback on the various trials that surround us, now is the time to see what goes into building those trails. Anyone is welcome to attend, but prior registration is

niscent of the songs from that era with a modern twist. Incorporating guitar, flute, banjo, bass, and drums, the band dubs its sound “rockin’ and rollin’ Americana.” The Scones have received national recognition from Vintage Guitar Magazine praising them for their “glorious harmonies and first rate guitar work.” San Antonio Express News describes their music as “Americana for adults featuring top notch songwriting.”

required. You can register at http://www.copmoba. org/trail-workday-regis tration. An all-day work session Saturday, June 23, will be followed by a barbecue at 3 p.m. Volunteers will work until noon Sunday, then ride or hike the trail after. Everyone who attends will receive a $35 gift certificate to be used toward any service at Antonelli’s Advanced Automotive.

Delta Trap Club, located at 8017 Trap Club Road, will host a trap shoot tournament to raise funds for Montrose Regional Crime Stoppers. The Montrose Regional Crime Stoppers program has been highly successful in its three years of existence, awarding over $8,000 in rewards for anonymous tips resulting in arrests. The tournament will be held Sunday, June 24, from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. and is open to the public. The trap club has three “loaner” shotguns. Prizes will be awarded to the high gun overall, second place and third place. To register, visit www. deltatrapclub.org or call 874-7424.

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A8 Wednesday, June 20, 2018

BUSINESS

Delta County Independent

Commissioners comment on GMUG’s economic importance BY ANNETTE BRAND Staff Writer

At the request of the U.S. Forest Service, Delta County Commissioners Doug Atchley, Mark Roeber and Don Suppes provided comments on the scoping document under development for the Grand Mesa, Uncompahgre and Gunnison National Forests (GMUG). They stated their appreciation for the opportunity to provide comment and said they look forward to working with the GMUG through the entire Forest Plan revision process. The commissioners requested that the economic importance of the GMUG to local communities be specifically mentioned in the vision statement and supported throughout the document. Delta County fully supports adaptive management and direction for the GMUG, stating “adaptive management” should be defined so it will allow for the monitoring to, in part, determine the direction. They

Bennet staff will be in Delta Monday Colorado U.S. Senator Michael Bennet invites area residents to meet with a member of his Colorado staff in Room 234 of the Delta County Courthouse Monday, June 25, from 10 a.m. to noon. Appointments are encouraged, but not required. To schedule a oneon-one meeting, call 970-241-6631 or send an email to Shannon_ Wadas@bennet.senate. gov. Please include a brief description of the issue you want to discuss.

recommend including in the adaptive management plan the flexibility to add the public as part of the joint monitoring of projects. The commissioners state this approach should also be used across other disciplines, including recreation, timber and vegetation management. The efficacy of adaptive management will depend on monitoring of indicators that provide information on trend to learn whether the plan will have the intended impact. Delta County agrees that recreation is a driver on the GMUG; however, it should not be put above other uses to the detriment of other economic drivers. Also, when the forest is managed for the conservation biological principles, the scenery will be provided for. Delta County agrees with the timber management direction and encourages the same language be used for livestock grazing. Delta County agrees with the focus on increasing water storage through expansion; however, the need to provide additional storage to address future needs should be in the GMUG forest plan. Expansion and new construction should receive equal billing in the plan. Delta County agrees with adding major fiber optic lines and broadband infrastructure, and recommends including the ability to maintain ROW without significant NEPA roadblocks, and language that allows for perfection of easements. The bullet concerning managing to not degrade air resources should be reworded to allow for temporary degradation of air quality resources for longterm forest health benefit. Timber management and harvest should be added

to improve long-term air quality resources. When addressing tools for providing biodiversity of plant and animal communities, Delta County recommends including vegetation management. An addition to the management options is the ability to mitigate so that the Overland Reservoir can be expanded. “Minimizing wildlife and livestock conflict” does not mean that the livestock is the mitigation tool of choice. A significant number of existing areas with restrictions are already in place, such as wilderness and roadless. These areas should be the basis for requested quiet recreation, backcountry and habitat needs. This would allow for greater flexibility and multiple-use on the remainder of the GMUG.

Men and women in blue

Photos by Pat Sunderland

Graduates of the Law Enforcement Academy at the Technical College of the Rockies turn their attention to guest speaker Dan Sanders (right), Cedaredge Police Department chief and an instructor at the academy. The 12 graduates represent a new era for the academy, which was recently recertified by POST under director Dave Stassen. Of the 12 graduates, five were sponsored by law enforcement agencies including Wade Carney, who is moving from detentions to patrol at the Delta County Sheriff’s Office. The graduating class also included Michael Bell, Kali Botts, Casey Canfield, Matthew Chrest, Adam Greenman, Travis Hardy Jr., Christopher Hearing, Deana Hudler, Quinten Stump, Brett Suppes and Andrew Vassel. The graduates were honored at a reception following the June 14 ceremony at the Delta Performing Arts Center.

Patterson re-elected to DMEA board DMEA’s annual meeting on June 15 provided an evening of family fun, entertainment, education, and full bellies, as Jimmer’s Back Country BBQ served up a delicious meal. It was also a night for DMEA to celebrate the future. DMEA showcased new technologies in energy efficiency, transportation and, of course, broadband. An important conversation addressed how the way DMEA generates and delivers electricity has changed thanks to more robust and affordable renewable resources and the changing needs of members. The meeting also marked the close of DMEA’s board of director elections. Three seats were up for election this year — Districts 1, 2 and

5. The District 2 and 5 candidates ran unopposed and were deemed elected at the meeting. Kyle Martinez maintained his seat as the District 2 representative; Chris Hauck was welcomed as District

5 representative. Hauck takes the place of Marshall Collins who moved off the board this year as he met his term limit obligation after 12 years of dedicated service. Two candidates ran

for the District 1 seat, incumbent Bill Patterson and challenger Ed Ulibarri. Patterson retained his seat securing 3,003 (71.3 percent) votes. Ulibarri secured 1206 (28.7 percent) votes.

Funding available for nonprofits working to end hunger In an effort to address hunger in Delta County, the Western Colorado Community Foundation has announced funding for projects that increase access to healthy, local foods and improve food security for vulnerable populations. The deadline to apply for the Community Food and Hunger Relief grant is July 15. For more information, and to apply, visit

wc-cf.org/nonprofits/ grantmaking. The Community Foundation is committed to alleviating hunger in the seven counties it serves, by supporting action steps that implement the goals and strategies of the Colorado Blueprint to End Hunger. Learn more about the foundation’s recent Mesa County Leadership Forum on Hunger and ways to get

involved at wc-cf.org/com munity/hunger. The Western Colorado Community Foundation serves seven counties in western Colorado, managing charitable funds for community good. Currently, the Community Foundation manages over 265 charitable funds totaling nearly $75 million in assets and awards over $3.4 million in grants and scholarships annually.

Know Your Neighbor

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The Station connects consumers with locally sourced food they can feel good about

You’re invited to an exciting event Friday, June 22 — it’s the grand opening of The Station at 235 Highway 133, in Hotchkiss. Stop by between 4 and 6 p.m. to see how Emma Stopher-Grifﬁn and Matthew Kottenstette transformed the old Go-Fer convenience store into a convenient and welcoming place to get food you can feel good about. The Station features fresh seasonal produce and fruit, locally raised meat and dairy, pantry items like jams and jellies, dry goods like beans and grains, coffee, tea, pastries, grab-ngo breakfast and lunch, cold drinks, ice cream, and more! In keeping with the business’ motto of “Local Farms First,” the majority of products are sourced locally (within 10 miles). Some of the snacks and dry goods come from farther aﬁeld, but always from Colorado. The Station is also the home of Blue Sky Baking. Amazing cakes, cookies, and pastries will be available in the café or through

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Hotchkiss. “We immediately started getting folks stopping by to see if they could buy the products we were distributing elsewhere. We also heard from so many people that they wanted a convenient place to pick up an on-the-go breakfast or a quick lunch made with local ingredients. Last summer, we started a pop-up market on Friday afternoons to sell our leftovers from wholesale orders. It was more successful than we even thought it would be, which is what gave us the inspiration to dive in headﬁrst on a full-time store this year.” Katie Darlington, who joined Farm Runners in 2017, is the store manager. The Station is open Wednesday-Friday 7-6, Saturday 8-5 and Sunday 12-5. You’ll ﬁnd incredibly fresh food in a welcoming atmosphere, with products for every price point as well as bulk discounts. The Station also accepts EBT cards. Learn The Station specializes in food that’s sourced locally, which more by calling 970-846means it is incredibly fresh and high quality. This is not 3714 or visit farmrunners. fancy or foodie — it’s just good food. com.

special order. After farming in Delta County for several years, Emma and Matt decided to focus their efforts on making it easier for our farmers to ﬁnd a place to sell what they are growing. They established Farm Runners,

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a regional food distributor specializing in custom-harvested farm products from the North Fork Valley and surrounding areas. To accommodate wholesale distribution, Emma and Matt moved Farm Runners into the old Go-Fer foods in

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NEVER A COVER OPEN 7 DAYS A WEEK! • 10 a.m.-2 a.m. 1410 Valley View Drive • Delta • 970-874-3130

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NORTH FORK June 20, 2018

TIMES

Section

www.deltacountyindependent.com

Hotchkiss implements water restrictions BY PAT SUNDERLAND Managing Editor

The Town of Hotchkiss is exercising caution by instituting odd-even outdoor watering restrictions for the town’s residents. Public works director Mike Owens said he’s been assured Leroux Creek water supplies are sufficient, even at 55 percent, but noted usage in early June jumped substantially. “Due to the very dry conditions, I suggest we implement odd and even water days for now and hope the weather patterns change for

the better,” he said in a memo to trustees. House numbers ending in an even number will water on Mondays and Wednesdays; odd house numbers can water Tuesday and Thursday. Hotchkiss owns water shares from Leroux Creek and other sources, which is treated at the Horse Park Water Treatment Plant. The town also provides treated water to residents on Hanson and Rogers mesas. Both water companies will be notified of the in-town water restrictions.

Paonia residents asked to conserve their water use The Town of Paonia is asking residents to conserve water usage as the heat of summer arrives and a less than normal spring runoff ends. At the June 12 board meeting town administrator Ken Knight told the trustees that the results of the drought are quickly becoming apparent. “We have routinely, for most of the year, been spilling about 15,000 gallons of untreated water daily into Minnesota Creek,” said Knight. Public Works Director Travis Loberg informed Knight that the amount recently — and very quickly — dipped to about 1,500 gallons per day This week Knight issued a call to residents to conserve, stating: “In the last two weeks the Town as seen a precipi-

tous drop in the amount of water that is flowing from our springs to the water plant. We are NOT in a water crisis at this point, but the Town would like to ask our community members and water companies to begin to try to conserve water by limiting the amount of water you use to irrigate, doing full loads of laundry instead of partial loads, don’t let the water run while washing dishes or brushing your teeth, etc. “If necessary the Town may look to impose water restrictions in the future and may need to even raise the price on water, but that is not our goal. Our goal is to work with you, our friends and neighbors, and to encourage conservation, not enforce it. “Thank you.”

Gregarious and adaptive

A colorful male house ﬁnch rests on a tree branch in Paonia. According to the National Audubon Society, house ﬁnches were strictly western birds until the 1940s when they were shipped illegally to New York to be sold as cage birds. Wanting to avoid persecution, pet shop owners released them into the suburbs. Since then they have spread throughout the east and midwest and their range is still expanding. If you enjoy birds, read about the Colorado Bird Trail, this week’s Back Page feature on page D6.

Hotchkiss board considers variances, HopeWest donation BY PAT SUNDERLAND Managing Editor

Members of the Hotchkiss Town Council granted one variance request and denied another at their monthly meeting June 14. Both decisions fell in line with recommendations from the Hotchkiss Planning Commission.

Paonia awards bids for sidewalk, water tank repair BY TAMIE MECK Staff Writer

Cost to repair the damaged lining of the one million-gallon storage tank at the Clock water treatment plant will exceed $78,000. At the June 12 board meeting trustees approved a bid to sandblast the storage tank, which mainly provides potable water to Paonia proper. The floor of the tank was heavily damaged in 2015 and repairs were completed in 2016. A fall 2017 survey by the Colorado Department of Health revealed that the lining had failed, putting the tank at risk for contamination. The health department ordered the tank shut down until the lining is repaired. Eckert-based Grand Mesa Mobile Dustless Blasting was awarded a bid of $78,364 to sand blast the tank in preparation for a new lining, with a completion time of 16 days. Grand Mesa submitted a second bid of $68,568 to complete the project in 25 days. Denver-based Lightning Mobile submitted a bid of $150,000, with a 30-day completion, and Western Colorado Mobile Dustless Blasting in Fruita submitted a bid of $300,259. The main difference in the bids is the materials used in the blasting process, said Loberg. The Fruita company uses a more expensive glass medium, while Grand Mesa uses a more coarse material. Loberg recommended Grand Mesa’s 16-day bid, adding that they were the only company to test their material on the tank. “I think they will do a good job,” said Loberg. Trustee Bill Bear, who serves on the Public Works Committee, agreed with Loberg’s recommendation. “In light of where we’re at with the drought conditions, I think it’s prudent that we do this quicker” and get the tank back in service. The lining itself will add to the cost of the project. Requests for bids for a new lining will go out once the sandblasting project is complete. Trustees also awarded a

Photo by Tamie Meck

A cyclist with child in tow crosses the Samuel Wade Bridge. The Town of Paonia is considering a project to widen the bridge, which would include a handicap accessible pedestrian lane. bid to install handicap ramps to existing sidewalks throughout town and repair broken sidewalks. C&N Construction, Inc., of Delta, submitted a bid of $7.99 per square foot to replace sidewalks, $1,900 for each handicap ramp, and $25 per linear foot for curb and gutter replacement, for a total cost of $47,500. C&N, which has done other sidewalk projects for the town, submitted the only proposal. Knight said four packets were sent out, and the other three companies were too busy this summer to submit bids. The project will exhaust the town’s sidewalk repair fund, which comes from a voter-approved, $3 fee charged monthly on in-town water, sewer and trash bills. Funds are limited to repair and replacement of existing sidewalks. Knight said the town is also exploring the possibility of using funds from other sources to build new sidewalks this summer. The town is considering a widening project on the Samuel Wade Bridge. Also known as the Third Street Bridge, the project is in the discussion phase. Town Administrator Ken Knight

Photo by Tamie Meck

said the town is pursuing funding for the re-decking project from the Colorado Department of Local Affairs. The funds are available, “especially if design is both handicap accessible and improves safety,” said Knight. Both safety and handicap accessibility are concerns and “key components” in meeting standards for lane and sidewalk widths with the existing deck, explained Knight. Public Works Director Travis Loberg is working with the Colorado Department of Transportation to determine whether the bridge abutments are capable of supporting such a project. A CDOT engineer is expected to inspect the bridge in the near future, said Loberg. If the current support system is inadequate, the supports would have to be widened, increasing the cost of the project. The town recently completed a stabilization project on the bridge. “Because of all the work we just did in the river, we know those supports are solid,” said Knight. “But the question is, can we put a wider deck on there without having to dramatically change that support structure?”

Roya Beklik owns the lot at the corner of Bridge and 2nd street, which she uses for a flea/farmer’s market every Saturday. She would like to put up storage units, some for her own use and others she can rent out to offset the cost of maintaining her property. She told council members she had already purchased one of the two 10x24-foot buildings she plans to place on the back side of the lot. Each building contains four 6x10-foot storage areas. Because storage units are not a use by right in the commercial district, Beklik applied for a variance. Council members had mixed feelings about her proposal, but ultimately sided with three neighboring property owners who opposed the concept. “Storage units are not compatible with the downtown core,” trustee Mary Hockenbery said. Beklik asked if it would be possible to erect a storage unit for her use only, and was advised to review regulations with town staff. Marcus Brozina sought a variance from setback requirements for a shed he plans to build at his home at 542 Aspen Lane. Planning commission members recommended approval of the variance, contingent on Brozina’s research into DMEA easements. Brozina learned that the shed can be placed in DMEA’s easement, with the understanding that if it has to be moved, it will be up to Brozina to bear the expense. With that understanding, trustees unanimously approved Brozina’s request. Later in the meeting, Mayor Larry Wilkening appointed Roger Christian to the planning commission, which brings it to full strength. Trustees approved the use of Willow Heights Park June

25-26 for a church day camp, and heard a request for a donation from HopeWest. Community development director Nancy Hovde said end-of-life care is provided to all, regardless of financial status. In Hotchkiss, through Dec. 31, 2017, HopeWest served 12 hospice patients, three children/teens in the kids’ grief support program and four adults in bereavement counseling. The town budgeted $3,300 for donations in 2018. After reviewing the funds already designated for annual events such as the community Thanksgiving and Christmas dinners, trustees decided they could not contribute to HopeWest at this time. Trustees also heard from Mike Savarro, owner of Mike’s Barber Shop, who objected to the closure of Oak Avenue for the Farm to Fiddle festival. Because of a lack of customer parking, he said he lost two days of business. This year, Oak Avenue will not be closed for the festival but Savarro is still concerned about the lack of available parking. He asked for designated parking spots for his customers. After a brief discussion with trustees and town staff, Savarro was told he could put up temporary signs on the planter boxes, but compliance would be entirely voluntary. Trustee Esther Koontz also suggested that a separate parking area be designated for vendors. The Farm to Fiddle Festival is held in conjunction with the Delta County Fair Aug. 10 and 11. As the meeting came to a close, Mayor Larry Wilkening recognized Gary Oberle and the crew of Ace Gambles for their efforts to beautify the community.

Bulls n’ Broncs, mud volleyball are back for Cherry Days The 13th annual Bulls N’ Broncs War (formerly the North Fork Challenge) returns to the North Fork Horse Patrol on June 30. This year, $750 of added money will be added to each of the two main events. There will also be a costume ride, and a boot race for the kids. During the evening, the first North Fork Horse Patrol Scholarship will be presented to a local student. Reservations for limited arenaside parking are accepted on a first-come, first-served basis. Cost is $50 per vehicle, which includes four event tickets. Also at the Horse Patrol,

the popular Mud Volleyball tournament returns this July 4. The tournament will begin at 3 p.m. Registration fee is $150 per team. Register before the event, or at 2 p.m. the day of the event. Each team must have at least six members, and at least one female is required to be on the court at all times. One half of the pot will be awarded in prize money, and the balance will go to the North Fork Horse Patrol Scholarship Fund. To pre-register for either of these events, or to reserve arenaside parking, call Shane at 970-261-2251 or Haillie at 208-309-1164.

B2 Wednesday, June 20, 2018

NORTH FORK TIMES

Delta County Independent

Register for Cherry Days events With the 72nd annual Cherry Days celebration fast approaching, be sure to plan ahead, as some of the more popular activities require registration. This year’s Cherry Days Parade categories include: children (17 and under), groups, antique/ classic cars, antique tractors, animal, political, business, and other individual. Registration fee is $5-$50, depending on the category, with a higher entry fee for parade-day registration. If mailing your form, please send to

the address on the form no later than June 30 to ensure timely arrival. By popular demand, the Cherry Days Coal Shoveling contest returns to Paonia Town Park on July 4. Entry is $50 per team. Registration will also be accepted at 12:30 p.m. the day of the event. The contest pays homage to the coal-mining heritage of Paonia and the North Fork Valley. Teams of two will shovel one ton of coal into a hopper, with the team completing the task in the fastest

time winning the grand prize. Participants must be 18 or older and sign a waiver. Because teams will be drawn in random order, it is requested that everyone arrive in front of the park football field in time for the 1 p.m. start. The second Cherry Days softball tournament will take place June 30July 1 at Volunteer Park in Paonia. A men’s wood bat tournament will be held June 30, and a co-ed tournament (with men using wood bat only) will

New hire approved for Paonia Police Department BY TAMIE MECK Staff Writer

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After losing two police officers last year, the Town of Paonia is again advertising for a full-time police officer. Approval for a new hire by the board of trustees comes as the town enters its busiest time of the year. The department currently has three fulltime and one part-time officers, including Police Chief Neil Ferguson. More than once in recent months the department has been understaffed during an emergency situation, said Ferguson. There are times when they have to rely on Delta County Sheriff ’s Office for back-up. “We average a lot of overtime.” The department is short about two full-time officers compared to other towns the size of Paonia, said town administrator Ken Knight. When officers are out for training, vacation or other reasons, “We are down to the point of being at times dangerously short-handed.” Not only does it cost in overtime pay, but the stress can lead to burnout, said Knight. A new officer could almost be funded with the amount

of overtime, and would cut down on overtime and stress. When Ferguson joined the department a decade ago, he was one of six Paonia police officers. In 2015, staff cuts left the department with two and a half officers. “It’s getting to the point where we have more people in town,” said Ferguson. The department is at the point where it is becoming essential to bring another officer on board. Mayor Charles Stewart said the cuts made in 2014-2015 were painful, but necessary. He supports a new officer, “Because I do think the present situation does put the public at risk to a certain degree.” “Adding a police officer at this time, I think, would be prudent,” said Knight, and the current budget allows for it. However, he added, any additional hire needs to come with the “full knowledge” that in future years, “We may need to dip into that

additional new one-percent sales tax to continue to fund this position.” What Knight doesn’t want to see is an investment in a new hire, only to have to cut them loose after six months due to a lack of funding. Chief Ferguson knows of one citizen who has expressed interest in the position and is in the process of obtaining state recertification. That person lives in Paonia and would be available within the next few weeks, he said.

be held July 1. Games start at 8 a.m. and are time limited to one hour. Each team is guaranteed three games. First-round losses will determine gold and silver bracket teams. Cost is $250 per team, with a gold bracket payout of $500. While teams wait for their games, they can compete in a time-killing corn hole tournament. Proceeds benefit the Paonia High School wrestling program. For additional details contact Nate at wsc149@q.com or Eric at eneal@lightworksfiber. com. The annual Cherry Days 5k run/walk happens Saturday, June 30. The course begins and ends at Apple Valley Park and is stroller friendly. Registration is $35 for adults, $10 for ages 17 and under, with proceeds benefiting the Paonia High School cross country program. Register in advance or at 6:30 a.m. on race day. For more information call Brandy at 250-9793 or email brandysparks85@ yahoo.com. Registration forms for all of the events are available at www.pao niacherrydays under the “Activities” tab.

Drought, water topics of June 21 Rotary talk Jim Pokrandt, community affairs director for the Colorado River District, will be the guest speaker at the Thursday, June 21, North Fork Rotary Club meeting. Pokrandt will update the club on the severity of drought conditions locally and across the state and relate this situation to the importance

of Lake Powell to water users in Colorado and other Upper Basin states connected through the Colorado River Compact. He will also report on the progress of ongoing infrastructure projects at Paonia Reservoir. The talk begins at 12:30 p.m. at Paonia Town Hall. The public is welcome.

Bakers sought to showcase cherries The Paonia Cherry Days baking contest is July 4. Bring your “cherry” item to the Cherry Days booth in Paonia Town Park from noon to 12:30 for judging. Items will be judged on use of cherries, presentation and flavor. Please use a disposable container. Winners will be announced at 1 p.m. from the main gazebo stage. Cash will be awarded for first-fourth places. The Cherry Days Committee will keep and sell your baked item to the general public after judging. For details of the baking contest and 4th of July activities visit PaoniaCherryDays. com or call Esther Kinser at 970-270-3127.

Photo by Pat Sunderland

Pictured are Grace Burgevin, PEO Chapter GT/Delta scholarship chairman 2017-2018, Gwen Hallenbeck, scholarship committee member, Claudia King, current scholarship chairman, Tessa Gore, recipient of $1,000 PEO State of Colorado Scholarship and Tessa’s mother, Mary Gore.

PEO Chapter GT celebrates PHS scholarship recipients PEO Chapter GT celebrated Paonia High School scholarship recipients on Thursday, June 7, at Calvary Baptist Church in Delta. Kathy Kolman and Lynette Reed were the hostesses. Tessa Gore was honored as a recipient of the PEO Colorado State Chapter Scholarship. Candidates for this $1,000 scholarship are chosen by their intention to pursue a non-traditional vocational study program. Gore will study at Larimer County Community College to become a radiology technician. During her high school

years Gore was active in 4-H and Future Farmers of America. She has been selected for fair royalty, from junior princess to queen. According to Grace Burgevine, 2017-2018 scholarship chairman, Gore was one of three Paonia High School girls named for this state scholarship. Twins Kassidy and Randi Rapke will study nursing. Kassidy will attend Aims Community College, while Randi will attend Colorado Mesa University. Entertainment for the event was vocalist Audrey

Herren, Delta High School sophomore. Herren is interested in drama and sang in the stage production “The 25th annual Putman County Spelling Bee at DHS.” She is a vocal student of Kathy Kolman. Kolman sang “You’ll Never Walk Alone” to honor the scholarship recipients with Brad Kolman accompanying on the keyboard. Guests included Audrey’s mother Laura Herren and Tessa’s mother Mary Gore. Cake decorated in Paonia High School colors black and red was the dessert.

Paonia Jr./Sr. High honor roll ��

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The following students were named to the honor roll at Paonia High School for the second semester of the 2017-18 school year: Seventh Grade 3.25-3.49 Ace Connolly Malikhi Hamilton Matthew Horn Luke O’Brien Jazzmine Ramsay Odessa Shenk Lexi Todd Keira Tyan Delilah Vasquez 3.5-3.99 Milo Chavez Matthew Delaney Zoey Duncan Leia Ellenberger Logan Farnsworth Payton Fister Zoe Foster-Frank Autumn Kiefer Natasha Meader Mia Stolmeier Ian Wallace 4.0 Andrew Boyce Malachi Deck Faith Frazier Diego Lareau Kayla Miller

Keira Moxley Carmen Rodriguez Nikoya Schevene Graham Waltermire Eighth Grade 3.25-3.49 Isaac Forbes Jason Kuntz William Ramsay Samuel Roberts 3.5-3.99 Alissa Anderson Alyster Birk Larissa Cotton Alexandria Leighton Shaylee Odle Mason Van Vleet 4.0 Arjun Bacigalupi Kaya Crawford Alejandro Garcia Abby LaBounty Leona Myers Lydia Puckett Sienna Reese Irene Shenk Ninth Grade 3.25-3.49 Dominic Felice

Noah McDaniel Abby Reedy 3.5-3.99 Hailey Emmons Allison Godwin Cleya Hartter Lauryn Kiefer Sadie Lee Anthony Miller 4.0 Simon Cox Sean Maulhardt Taneal Mautz Tawny Roberts 10th Grade 3.25-3.49 Kristal Camacho Jessica Deaton Grey Neal Mercedes Norris Shane Odom Jai Petmezas Connolly Jalyn Walker 3.5-3.99 Anna Bailey Ellia Carlson Sophia Cox Alexis Newland

Audra Niermann Alysia Olson 4.0 Carly Horn Sadie Miller Katya Schwieterman Seraya Talbott-Carey 11th Grade 3.25-3.49 Jesse Burns Dantrick Reed 3.5-3.99 Ethan Bartlett Ikechi Elendu Harley Ewert Kendra Falkner Sabrina Leighton Poppy Lightfoot Elan Maulhardt Taralee Mautz Jaquelin Mora Verdeja 4.0 Jade Ellenberger Alejandra Gomez Lissarrague Calvin Reese 12th Grade 3.25-3.49 Orin Blankenship

Michael Hofmann Justin Johnson Anders Schopp 3.5-3.99 Marco Carrillo Nora Dransfield Tessa Gore Brooke Hillman Alex Hood Enoch Kropp Elliana Kuhl Jaden Miller Benjamin O’Rourke 4.0 Anika Carslon Marcos Edmondson Antonio Gonzalez Derek Holt McKenna Johnson Cyrus Malek Madani Caden Meilner McKenna Palmer Slater Podgorny Kassidy Rapke Randi Rapke Lene Sharer-Meneley Kaitlyn Wist

NORTH FORK TIMES

Delta County Independent

Wednesday, June 20, 2018

Philanthropy grows in Delta County Permanent fund to benefit local nonprofit organizations now, in the future

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Music at the library

The 101st Army Dixieland Band will play at the Paonia Library amphitheater in a fabulous outdoor performance at 6:30 p.m. Thursday, June 21. The eight-member band plays a variety of Dixieland and traditional jazz music. If rain threatens, the concert will continue indoors. Friends of the Paonia Library will provide food and drinks for purchase.

KPP summer season underway The Kids Pasta Project spring/summer season is under way. Slow Food Western Slope will be the beneficiary of the June 25 KPP dinner. Slow Food Western Slope supports the concept that good, clean and fair food should be accessible to all. Since 2009 KPP kids have prepared and served fresh pasta dinners to benefit the many organizations of the North Fork Valley. Diners enjoy a meal of homemade

lasagna dinner with gluten-free and freshly rolled pasta options and homemade sauces, bread, green salad and fruit crisp. Each meal benefits a different organization. The July 9 dinner will benefit the Paonia Historical Society and Paonia History Museum. Cost of the meal is $14 for adults, $8 for kids. Make reservations or see the full summer schedule at kidspastaproject.org, or call 970-250-6836.

Photo by Tamie Meck

Breakfast puppies

Puppies were the main attraction at the annual pancake breakfast to beneﬁt the Rotary Club of the North Fork Valley scholarship fund.

PEOPLE Daryl Batt of Hotchkiss was named to the 2018 spring semester Dean’s List at Simpson College. Daryl is the daughter of Greg and Julie Batt. Students named to the Dean’s List earned a 3.70 - 3.99 GPA. Simpson College is located in Indianola, Iowa, a short drive from Iowa’s capital city of Des Moines. Founded in 1860 by members of the United Methodist Church, Simpson College has approximately 1,300 full-time undergraduate students and approximately 400 part-time students.

IN THE NEWS

Logan Hill of Hotchkiss has been named to the Deans’ List/Explore Center List of Distinguished Students at the University of Nebraska-Lincoln for the spring semester of the 2017-18 academic year. Hill, a senior management major, was named to the Dean’s List for the College of Business. His qualifying gradepoint average of 3.6 is based on a 4.0 scale and a minimum of 12 graded semester hours. Students can be on the Deans’ List for more than one college.

Photo submitted

Music at the library

Bluesy, jazzy, rock duo Sarah Eller and David Snider will play at Paonia Library’s outdoor amphitheater at 6:30 p.m. Tuesday, June 26. Sarah Eller has performed as a blues, jazz, and rock vocalist for over 20 years. David Snider is a songwriter, composer, producer, arranger and Colorado-based musician who has played guitar, bass and keyboards at venues across the globe. Picnic and takeout dinners are welcome.

The West Elk Community Fund (WECF) announces the formation of a local philanthropic fund to serve the areas in and around Paonia, Hotchkiss and Crawford. The WECF is partnering with the Western Colorado Community Foundation (WCCF) to help donors establish endowed funds to benefit these communities. Founding members are committed to the needs of the area and to build a funding source for the community for the long term. The WECF is building a permanent funding source that will be here for our community well into the future. A small group of citizens formed to get the fund started. “Giving through the WECF allows our long term contributions to apply to a broader geographic area, and greatly enhances the quality of life in our community,” said Mark Walsh, one of the founding members. The fund, which

Library trustee talk time Do you like your library? Do you have suggestions for improvement? Do you know about the Taxpayer Bill of Rights (TABOR) and the Gallagher Amendment? Do you understand the effect this legislation has on your support of public institutions? Do you know how the library is funded? Are you frustrated with your library? Talk to Jess Deegan, the Crawford representative on the Delta County Libraries Board of Trustees. Deegan will be available on the second and fourth Wednesdays of every month at Crawford Library from 4 to 5:30 p.m. If this time does not work for you, contact Deegan at jdeegan@deltalibraries. org or 970-510-0724 to ask your questions or make an appointment.

includes a generous donation from WCCF, is launching with over $70,000 in this first year. The advisory team plans to make grants available annually to local nonprofits in our area. Community members can participate and make tax-deductible donations of cash, stock or other investments to the fund by contacting WECF or the Western Colorado Community Foundation. “The endowment aspect sold me on the community fund. The contributions we make now will help sustain our beloved nonprofit organizations for years to come,” said Kathryn Thompson of Paonia. This summer, WECF will begin taking applications from local nonprofits within the geographic area. Any local 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization in good standing may apply. The local advisory team will announce grant awards in December. Sarah Bishop, longtime North Fork Valley resident, said, “We love this community. How better to show our love than to share our treasure. WECF will spread the love and the treasure.” For more information, about the application process, or to view the online application, visit http://wc-cf.org/nonprof its/grantmaking/

The West Elk Community Fund is working with the Western Colorado Community Foundation (www.wc-cf.org) to work with donors to establish and build charitable legacy funds and endowments to benefit Western Colorado. Celebrating more than 20 years of service, the Western Colorado Community Foundation is a tax-exempt charity comprised of many funds established by separate donors. Based on the philanthropic model of endowed funds invested

to grow over the longterm, with the earnings available annually for charitable giving, WCCF pools funds to provide sustained long term support for our region through grants, scholarships and more.

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B4 Wednesday, June 20, 2018

HEALTH AND FITNESS

Delta County Independent

GOCO inspires kids to get outside more often

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youth obesity rate is rapidly rising. GOCO is working to address a growing concern that if Colorado kids don’t connect and engage with the outdoors, they will not be inspired to care for the great natural spaces that make this state such a special place. Generation Wild is the only effort of its kind in the United States. A longitudinal study conducted after its first year indicates GOCO is moving the needle on behaviors and attitudes. 55 percent of the moms surveyed reported that the Generation Wild campaign inspired them to take their kids outdoors more often, and 40 percent reported the campaign encouraged them to do things outdoors they may not have done otherwise. The Generation Wild campaign builds on an innovative, GOCO-fund-

ed initiative to connect youth and families with the outdoors across the state of Colorado. Collaborative coalitions are working in 15 communities (previously called Inspire Initiative communities and now called Generation Wild communities) to break down barriers to the outdoors

and build new places for recreation, create outdoor programs to activate those sites, and create internships and job opportunities in the outdoor field. To view the list of “100 Things to Do Before You’re 12” or for additional information, visit GenerationWild.com.

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20 years of service

Paula Raevsky congratulates Joyce Labounty (right) on 20 years with Delta County Memorial Hospital.

Building confidence in the lazy days of summer BY WENDY SHIMA, M.ED. ECE Coordinator Technical College of the Rockies

I have been seeing it pop up all over social media: a seemingly innocent question that surfaces each June, “What are you doing with your kids this summer?” For parents of young children, this question can be a bit daunting. We are looking forward to summer, but what to do with the littles? We look for camps and fairy ballet classes to fill their time, but still, there is an odd tension invading our homes. And we can’t quite figure out what it is. The lure of summer with its longer days and

warmer nights just calls us to relax and it feels like we should have more time for enjoying things. You’d think this would be the perfect time to relax with our littles. However, many of us experience the opposite — we try to relax, but the kiddos are having more temper tantrums, more challenges, and just general whining than when they were in school. What’s going on? Generally speaking, children between the ages of 0 and 6 feel the most confident when they have order, a routine and a schedule. This is due to their deep need for patterns in their environment at this age. Even though they are not yet ready to create order, when they understand the order, they feel in control of their day. Creating a sense of order is one of the biggest gifts we can give our children. The same children who went to bed without a fuss during the school year can react poorly when they move from a structured, orderly routine into a less structured, and thus often unpredictable, schedule. One of the biggest helps for the summer

challenges is to keep a regular schedule and routine. The schedule doesn’t need to start and end at the same time every day. As a matter of fact, spending extra time within the schedule is the ideal. We can have a more leisurely lunch together or we can spend extra time preparing dinner or shopping together, since we are not in a rush. Summer is a great time to help your child build up their skills for independence and boost their confidence in themselves. Consider inviting your child to help you plan and prepare meals. Teach your child how to do their laundry. An 18-month-old can help you presort, a 3- to 4-year-old can put everything in the washer, add soap and turn it on! And, since summer is a great time for travelling, show your child how to pack a suitcase, or backpack for a camping trip. Your 3- and 4-year-olds can choose outfits and lay them out for the number of days you will be travelling. Just by implementing a clear schedule and some new skills, you will have a more relaxed child, as well as a more confident one!

Smiling is good � � �� health � �� for � �� your

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BY TASHA GIBSON, RDH A Kidz Clinic

you can instantly lift your spirits by simulating (not fake, but choose to engage in) a genuine smile. Find things that make you smile when you are feeling stressed, overwhelmed, or down to help improve your mood. Did you know that people can recognize smiles from up to 300 feet away, making it the most easily recognizable facial expression? So the next time that you are feeling down, or overwhelmed with daily life, make sure you smile to help you not work yourself up and relax. ��

�� Everyone says that “laughter is the best medicine,” and everyone also has probably experienced the benefits of smiling and laughing. It is proven that the simple act of smiling can boost your mood and your immune system. Since smiling takes up to 17 muscles to smile, it is our easiest facial expression to make and it can boost your mood. However, it does take 43 muscles to frown. Psychologists have found that even if you’re in a bad mood,

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today are over-scheduled, over-screened and overprotected — and spending as little as 4-7 minutes outside each day — the Generation Wild campaign is a movement to change this dynamic by inspiring kids (and moms) to get outside more often, letting their imaginations and curiosity run wild. Created and launched by Great Outdoors Colorado (GOCO) last year, the Generation Wild campaign features “100 Things to Do Before You’re 12,” a vibrant compilation of activities from simple pleasures like burying a time capsule and making a mudpie, to more challenging adventures like riding a horse or hiking a 14er. “Generation Wild is more than a campaign — it’s a movement to change behaviors, attitudes and hopefully impact a generation of Colorado kids,” said Chris Castilian, executive director of Great Outdoors Colorado. “Studies continue to show that kids feel better and think better after some fresh air and outdoor play. By reminding adults about how kids see the outdoors, and how freeing it can be to run a bit wild, we hope to inspire everyone to get outdoors even more this summer.” “Kids grow better outside” is the theme of the Generation Wild campaign, and for good reason: Outdoor physical activity isn’t just a fun break from our digital devices and structured daily routines — it makes kids healthier and happier, from strengthening their immune systems, to improving cognitive abilities, to lowering stress. Colorado boasts one of the nation’s healthiest adult populations, but the

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ond year with a creative marketing campaign and activities across the state. Because so many kids

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Inspiring kids across Colorado to once again put down their screens and get outdoors, Generation Wild kicks off its sec-

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HEALTH AND FITNESS

Delta County Independent

Wednesday, June 20, 2018

100 deadliest days of driving More fatal crashes happen on Colorado roads during the three months between Memorial Day and Labor Day than any other time of year. To keep drivers and passengers safe this summer, the Colorado Department of Transportation (CDOT), Colorado State Patrol (CSP), local law enforcement agencies and other safety partners are collaborating to implement outreach efforts across the state. More cars on the road, an increase in motorcyclists and teen drivers, and an historic increase in impaired driving are all factors contributing to a spike in motor vehicle fatalities during the 100 days between Memorial Day and Labor Day. Since 2013, 908 people have died in crashes on Colorado roads between June and August, accounting for nearly one-third of the total traffic fatalities in the state during that period. In 2017, June, July and August accounted for the three months with the highest fatalities compared to other months that year. “We can’t ignore the data — more fatalities happen on Colorado roads between Memorial Day and Labor Day than any other stretch during the year,” said Darrell Lingk, director of the Office of Transportation Safety at CDOT. “That’s why we’re

ramping up our efforts during this 100-day period to ensure everyone travels safely.” “With more cars on the roads there is a higher risk for crashes to happen in the summer,” said Col. Matthew Packard, chief of the CSP. “We hope our increased efforts during this 100-day span can keep people safe and even save lives.” CDOT will be launching several high-visibility safety campaigns and heightened enforcement periods in an effort to keep Coloradans safe this summer: Impaired Driving Last June, 19 people were killed in alcoholrelated crashes on Colorado roads. From June 15-25, CDOT, CSP and local law enforcement agencies are teaming up for the “Summer Blitz” DUI enforcement. CDOT and 101 participating law enforcement agencies hope to save lives by removing impaired drivers from Colorado roads during the heightened enforcement. A total of 508 DUI arrests were made during the enforcement period last year. CDOT is also getting ready to launch a summer-long effort to promote the use of smartphone breathalyzers to curb impaired driving. In conjunction with BACtack, a manufacturer of personal smartphone breathalyz-

ers, CDOT’s goal is to raise awareness among Coloradans of the mobile breathalyzers as a tool to make informed, safe decisions and prevent impaired driving. CDOT representatives will be at various events throughout the summer to reach drinkers and showcase the breathalyzers in person. Seat Belt Safety Wearing a seat belt is the best defense to protect you from an impaired or distracted driver in a crash. To encourage more drivers to buckle up, CDOT, CSP and local law enforcement agencies recently teamed up for a statewide “May Mobilization” Click It or Ticket high-visibility seat belt enforcement from May 21 to June 3. A total of 5,877 drivers and passengers were cited during the enforcement for not buckling up, including 239 drivers who had an improperly restrained child under the age of 15 in their vehicle. Click It or Ticket will return for an enforcement period targeting rural areas July 16-22. In conjunction with the Click It or Ticket summer enforcement periods, CDOT is airing new safety ads featuring real Coloradans to promote seat belt use. CDOT interviewed people throughout the state to learn their reasons for buckling up

in the hopes that these messages will inspire fellow Coloradans to do the same. Child Passenger Safety Only one in four children are properly secured in their car seat, and car crashes are a leading cause of death in children ages 1-12, according to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA). To increase car seat safety education and resources for parents, Car Seats Colorado — a joint initiative between CDOT and CSP — will host car seat check events in communities across Colorado. In addition, parents and caregivers can have their car seat checked by a certified child passenger safety technician at any time by visiting a Car Advertising with DCI can work for you. Call 874-4421 Seats Colorado inspection station. For more information, resources on proper car seat fit and a list of inspection station locations statewide, visit Car SeatsColorado.com. Motorcycle Safety Motorcycle deaths have spiked 44 percent in Colorado in recent years. Motorcycle crashes often happen when a driver turns left in front of an �� oncoming motorcycle. �� CDOT’s motorcycle campaign will raise awareness of the importance of �� checking blind spots and “looking twice” for motorcyclists when pulling onto roadways. Teen Driver Outreach According to data from AAA, 10 people will die in �� a crash involving a teen driver each day during the 100 days between Memorial Day and Labor Day. CDOT will continue public outreach about Colorado’s Graduated �� Driver Licensing (GDL) �� laws designed to help teen drivers develop safe �� driving skills while fol�� lowing designated restric�� tions in their first years of driving. ��

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Photos submitted

10-year employees

A number of Delta County Memorial Hospital employees have been recognized for 10 years of employment. In the top row (from left) are Kathy Gilder, Mark Davignon and Fred Schmidt.The bottom row features Lujuanna Tims and hospital CEO Jason Cleckler, pictured with Jody Roeber and Larry Vincent from the hospital’s administrative team.

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Tips for medication storage, disposal An educational event titled “Safe Medication Storage and Disposal” will be presented in the Montrose Library, Ouray 4-H Event Center, and Telluride Library on June 26, 27, and 28, respectively, from 6-8 p.m. The event is hosted by Community Opioid Response Program, Center for Mental Health, Montrose County Health and Human Services and 7th Judicial District Probation. The public will learn safe ways to dispose of leftover medication, why it’s important, where you can dispose of them, and an overview of what is happening in their own county when it comes to opioid crisis. Greg Fabisiak, Colorado Department of Health and Environment, is the guest speaker. Community leaders and stakeholders will participate in a question-and-answer session. This free event is ideal for concerned citizens, parents, law enforcement, community members and anyone else interested in making a difference in their community. For more information, contact Arianna Sherman at AriannaS@wcahec.org.

B6 Wednesday, June 20, 2018

HEALTH AND FITNESS

Delta County Independent

Summer safety tips from Colorado Parks and Wildlife June 21 is the first day of summer, when many residents and visitors to our state will be kicking off their outdoor summer plans. With so many activities and open spaces, Colorado Parks and Wildlife reminds outdoor enthusiasts that our wealth of outdoor activities also come with responsibilities. “Our staff takes pride in seeing so many people getting outdoors and enjoying the many kinds of summer recreation in the state,” said Dan Pren-

zlow, southeast regional manager for CPW. “We ask that people who are getting outside over the course of the summer remember that a bit of preparation goes a long way. Knowing the rules and maintaining proper equipment is a big part of having a safe and fun summer.” Below are some rules and tips for safely enjoying our state this summer. Boating Requirements and Safety In Colorado, anyone

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operating a motorboat, including a personal watercraft or sailboat, must be at least 16 years old. However, youths 14 and 15 years of age can operate a motorboat, jet ski or sailboat if they successfully complete the state’s boating safety course. The course is offered throughout the state and is open to adults as well as teens; though adults are not required to take the course, doing so may qualify owners for a discount on boat insurance. U.S. Coast Guardapproved safety equipment is required on all

boats. Though some activities such as water skiing require additional equipment, every boat must minimally have a personal flotation device for every person on board. CPW’s boating regulations brochure details the specific requirements for all boating and PWC activities in Colorado. Never operate any watercraft while under the influence. Drinking and boating can be just as dangerous, if not more so, than drinking and driving. Not only will operators experience the negative effects on judgment, vision, balance, coordina-

tion and reaction times associated with alcohol consumption, but they may also be affected by “boater’s hypnosis.” Boater’s hypnosis, or boater’s fatigue, is caused by exposure to noise, vibration, sun, glare, wind and motion experienced on the water. In Colorado, a BUI can be punishable by a year in jail, a loss of boating privileges for three months, fines up to $1,000 and 96 hours of community service. Boat owners must participate in mandatory state-certified boat inspections to help prevent the spread of zebra and quagga mussels and other aquatic nuisance species in Colorado lakes and reservoirs. These invasive species are a serious threat to Colorado waters, negatively affecting the food chain and endangering key infrastructures. To help prevent the spread of zebra and quagga mussels, boaters should remember to follow these steps: clean, drain, dry. Living with Wildlife Colorado is fortunate to count over 900 species of wildlife among our residents. Respecting wildlife while enjoying our state’s natural treasures is all of our responsibility! Most dangerous encounters occur because people fail to leave wild animals alone. Wildlife should not be harassed, captured, domesticated or fed. Intentional or inadvertent feeding is the major cause of most wildlife problems, not to mention it is illegal to feed deer, bighorn sheep, mountain goats, pronghorn, bears and elk in Colorado. Spring and early summer is the season for young wildlife and it’s important to remember

Photo submitted

5-year employee

Kersensa Brown recently celebrated ﬁve years of employment at Delta County Memorial Hospital.

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that wildlife does not operate the same way domesticated animals do. They frequently leave their young to find food sources or even distract predators. If you see a young animal alone, never try to take matters into your own hands — it is best to let nature take its course without human intervention. If an animal is clearly injured or remains alone for more than 24 hours, then call your nearest CPW office. Remember when planning hiking and camping trips that much of the state is also bear country. Before heading out for your adventures, brush up on how to enjoy the outdoors in bear country without unintentionally creating problems or potential conflicts with these amazing animals. Black bears are not naturally aggressive with humans, but they are strongly motivated by food, garbage and anything else that smells like a meal. Once they learn to find an easy meal at a campsite or in a car, they can damage property or even injure humans when returning to find additional food. Trails for All Review and respect trail signage. Many multi-use trails have right-of-way indicators, as well as displaying alternating days or directions for different types of traffic; obeying the signs and rules make the trails safer for everyone. Additionally, wildlife warnings may be posted at trailheads or online, so ensure you are prepared with the right clothing and equipment and learn about closures before you go. Follow the rules and the law by keeping your dogs safe and secure. Dogs should be kept on a 6’ or shorter leash unless in a specified offleash area. This keeps the dog on the trail, close to its owner and away from inadvertent wildlife encounters. If you bring your dog camping or hiking, follow posted signs about where they are — and are not — allowed to walk and swim. Always bring appropriate waste bags to pick up dog waste and carry it out with you in case a trash can is not located nearby. If using motorized vehicles on our state’s trails, remember that offhighway vehicles must be registered and/or permitted with Colorado Parks and Wildlife. Offhighway vehicles include motorcycles, dirt bikes, three-wheelers, ATVs, and dune buggies that are operated on public land or trails in Colorado. As with all motorized vehicles, do not operate under the influence! “We expect a busy summer at all of our parks, and on water and trails across the state,” said Prenzlow. “Before packing for your trips, check in on local water conditions, fire bans or other issues that might affect your plans. Know before you go and enjoy your summer.” To learn more about the wide variety of summer activities in the Centennial State, visit cpw. state.co.us.

Photo submitted

15-year employee

Dawn Arnett was recently recognized for 15 years of employment at Delta County Memorial Hospital.

SPORTS

Delta County Independent

SPORTS June 20, 2018

Wednesday, June 20, 2018

www.deltacountyindependent.com

Seriani, Miller, CHSAA player, coach of year er Kaden Seriani was named Class 2A baseball For the second consec- player of the year by the utive year, Paonia pitch- Colorado High School

BY TAMIE MECK

DCI Sports Writer

Photo by Tamie Meck

Senior Jaden Miller was named to the CHSAA allstate ﬁrst team for the second time. Miller was the only Eagles catcher with the ability to handle Seriani’s 90-plus-mph fast ball.

Post-season baseball honors doled out in 3A The 2018 Western Slope All-League baseball honors were released recently. Delta, the 3A WSL champion, landed six athletes on the 23member first-team roster with one other player earning honorable mention honors. Cedaredge garnered four first-team selections and landed one honorable mention player. Delta’s first-team selections included senior infielder Jaspar Carmichael (SS) and junior Rowyn Carmichael (2B); senior outfielder Dylan Hollenbeck and junior Kolby Keller; senior pitcher Drake Horn and freshman utility player Nolan Bynum. Delta’s honorable mention selection was senior infielder Josh Reeder. Cedaredge’s firstteam honorees included senior infielder Chase Meyers (1B), senior outfielder Pedro Madaleno,

Activities Association. Seriani, who made the CHSAA first team three consecutive years, batted .600 for the season and was second in home runs regardless of class with 13. At the plate Seriani had an ERA of 0.84. Among his other recognitions, in 2017 Seriani made MaxPreps Small Schools All-American baseball team and in 2016 was on the “Small Schools Baseball Player of the Year” watch list. The 23-2 Eagles won their second straight state title in 2018, and for the second year, head coach Nate Miller was named Class 2A Coach of the Year. In his four years as head coach the Eagles have achieved an 88-10 record. At the receiving end of Seriani’s 90-plus-mph fast balls was catcher Jaden Miller, who was

named to the All-State First Team for the second consecutive year and was the Western Slope League player of the year in 2015. At the plate this year Miller and Seriani led the class in RBIs and were ranked second and third, respectively, in slugging percentage. Anders Schopp also received All-State First Team honors from the CHSAA. Schopp made the CHSAA second team as a junior. Senior Slater Podgorny made the CHSAA second team for the second consecutive year. Podgorny played at short stop and on offense led the class in runs scored with 59. Second-year starting infielder Grey Neal received honorable mention and one of three Class 2A sophomores in the state to receive allstate honors.

Photo by Tamie Meck

For the second year, Paonia senior Kaden Seriani was named Class 2A Player of the Year by the Colorado High School Activities Association. In May Paonia won its second straight state title. Eagles Coach Nate Miller was named the 2A Coach of the Year for the second consecutive year.

Four Bulldogs on 2018 all-state baseball team BY TAMIE MECK DCI Sports Writer

was also named to the CHSAA second team as a junior. At the plate, this season he earned six wins, had an ERA of 1.67, and struck out 93 of 254 batters faced. Junior pitcher/outfielder Presley Pene made the All-State Second Team roster. As a

sophomore Pene received honorable mention from the CHSAA. Seniors Chase Hiatt (catcher) and Eli Kirk (pitcher/outfielder) also received all-state honorable mention (third-team) honors from the CHSAA. All three senior honorees from Hotchkiss signed to play in college: Kirk

and Hiatt with Colorado Northwestern Community College in Rangely, and Gonzalez with Vernon College in Vernon, Texas. Under head coach Blake Carlquist Hotchkiss finished the season at 19-4 overall record, won the district title, and finished fourth in the state.

Four Hotchkiss Bulldog baseball players were named all-state players by the Colorado High School Activities Association. Jonathan Gonzalez received All-State First senior catcher Colten Team honors. A pitcher Hoerr, senior pitcher and shortstop, Gonzalez Jacob Lewis and sophomore utility player Dusty Emig. Cedaredge’s honorable mention selections were senior infielder Brayden Blair. Delta’s Jaspar Carmichael earned the league’s top-player honor by being selected as the 2018 Player of the Year and coach Steve Reiher joined him with the league’s top coaching award with Coach of the Year honors. At the state level the Colorado Coaches Association selected Jaspar Carmichael to the first team with Rowyn Carmichael landing a spot on the honorable mention list. Jaspar Carmichael was a 3A First Team Photo by Tamie Meck Photo by Tamie Meck all-state selection and Cedaredge’s Chase Mey- Jonathan Gonzalez was named to the CHSAA all- Chase Hiatt is one of four Bulldog players to receive ers was an Honorable state ﬁrst team. Gonzalez signed to pitch for Ver- all-state honors from the CHSAA. All four players have signed to play in college. non College in Texas. Mention selection.

Former high school all-American offers non-pad skills camp BY TAMIE MECK DCI Sports Writer

Photo by Wayne Crick

Delta’s Jaspar Carmichael led the Panthers in many categories in 2018 and was one of six Delta players selected to the 3A WSL all-conference team. Carmichael was also a ﬁrst team player on the Colorado Coaches Association team with Rowyn Carmichael selected for the Honorable Mention team. Jaspar Carmichael was also the Player of the Year in 3A WSL.

Photo by Wayne Crick

Delta’s Steve Reiher was honored as the 2018 3A Western Slope Coach of the Year.

Tom Backhus believes that every kid who wants to plays football should have the right skills and good coaching. Backhus, who lives in Paonia with wife Tess, founded the annual Vail Summer Football Camp in 1982. Now in its 36th year, this year’s camp runs July 9-12 at Battle Mountain High School. Backhus knows the value of good coaching. A high school all-American, Backhus was a junior and starting offensive guard at Ohio State University in the 1968-1969 season when the Buckeyes defeated the University of Southern California to win the Rose Bowl. At the time, the national

championship was determined by who won the Rose Bowl, said Backhus. That year, USC running back OJ Simpson won the Heisman Trophy, “But we won the championship.” Even after moving to Paonia, Backhus continues to direct the Vail summer camp, a nonpad, technique-oriented camp. “It’s all based on doing things right,” he said. The right technique is what allows a 160pound guard to block a 240-pound lineman. Backhus grew up in Cincinnati. His mom worked at Xavier University and the family attended all the Musketeer football games. As fate would have it, he played football at Moeller High School, which was

coached by Gerry Faust. His senior year, Moeller had its now legendary undefeated seasons, and Backhus was named to Parade’s Magazine’s third annual High School AllAmerican football team as a second-team center. Three games into his senior year at OSU, he suffered a career-ending injury, and stayed on for two years as a graduate assistant under Hayes. He went on to coach at Air Force Academy, where he was the first offensive line coach under Bill Parcels; at University of Tampa, the University of Wisconsin, and at Notre Dame, where in 1981 he lost his job. He and Tess moved to Battle Mountain to raise BACKHUS TO B8

B8 Wednesday, June 20, 2018

SPORTS

Delta County Independent

Skills Challenge a hit This year’s turnout for the annual Rockies’ Skills Challenge, hosted at Bill Heddles Recreation Center, was the biggest its been in some time. Assistant Bill Heddles Recreation Director Tyler Schumacker announced this year’s participants

included 75 youngsters ranging in age from six to 13 years old. Each participant vied for top honors in three events; hitting, throwing and running. A warm and sunny June day greeted competitors in eight divisions (girls and boys 6 and 7

year olds, 8 and 9 year olds, 10 and 11 year olds and 12 and 13 year olds. The top winners in each division advance to the sectional round of the Challenge, which will be hosted at Suplizio Field in Grand Junction on July 15.

Photo by Wayne Crick

Jazlyn Naranjo demonstrates the form which produced a winning throw in last week’s Rockies’ Skill Challenge.

Parker Velasquez gets a good swing on the ball in the 6/7 year old division of last week’s Rockies’ Skill Challenge.

Photo submitted

2018 Skills Challenge winners

The day’s competition produced the following winners in eight divisions. In the back row, left to right, is Ty Reed (boys 10/11), Eban Ficklin (boys 12/13), Morgan Barnard (girls 12/13) and Logan Sanders (boys 8/9). In the front row, left to right, is Jazlyn Naranjo (10/11), Greyson Hollenbeck (boys 6/7), Sophia Siennicki (girls 8/9) and Shea Ryan (girls 6/7). These ﬁrst-place winners will advance to the sectional round of the Challenge, which will be hosted at Suplizio Field in Grand Junction on July 15.

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Photo by Wayne Crick

Delta High School boys basketball player Shad Lewis instructs players at last week’s Kids Camp.

Backhus CONTINUED FROM B7 their daughters. They had visited the area and liked what they saw, said Backhus. They leased the historic 4 Eagle Ranch north of Wolcott from the Denver Water Board and converted it to a venue for custom corporate retreats, parties and weddings. Backhus said he didn’t plan to return to coach-

ing, but after moving to the Vail Valley he saw the need for a good youth skills camp, and he knew a few good coaches who might like a Colorado vacation before the season starts. Most people don’t realize how hard coaches work, said Backhus. During the season they get very little rest. College coaches weren’t paid today’s big

salaries back in the early 1980s, he said, and the Vail area was pricy. To make camp affordable, he approached local lodges about offering discount rates. They’ve been offering them ever since, “even though it’s a very busy time of year,” said Backhus. Without those discounts, camp “would have been unaffordable” for most of the families. The first year, registration was $125. Today it’s up to $135. Among this year’s eight offensive and seven defensive coaches are Chan Gailey, former head coach of Dallas Cowboys, Buffalo Bills and at Georgia Tech, with whom Backhus coached at Air Force Academy; Steve Fairchild, former head coach at Colorado State University; Colorado Mesa University head coach Russ Martin and running back coach Rile Newcomer; Western State Colorado University head coach Jas Bains; and Clem Grinstead with Colorado School of Mines. They used to bring in Division I coaches, but a recent rule approved by the NCAA forbids them from working these types of camps, said Backhus. While he doesn’t care for the rule, the nice thing is that if kids who attend camp want to play in college, they are most likely to play at the D-II level.

Camp introduces kids heading into second through 12th grade to the game and emphasizes the importance of teammates and teamwork. Players receive personalized coaching instruction, and practices are offered by position. All practices are videotaped and reviewed by coaches and players in the classroom. Throughout the week coaches also hold coaches clinics tailored to specific positions. Clinics are free to anyone interested in coaching football, said Backhus. While traveling the state searching for Colorado-made beers and wines to offer with their packages, Tom and Tess discovered Paonia, said Backhus. They joined the Rotary Club of the North Fork Valley, Backhus now chairs the Mountain Harvest Creative, which supports arts and agriculture education and presents the annual Mountain Harvest Festival. Tess also makes and markets her own line of custom jewelry. Backhus said he’ll continue to offer the camp for as long as coaches and players keep returning. After last year’s banner summer, for the first time, this year’s 6-12 camp is limited to 160 players. Registration is still open. Visit www.vailsum merfootballcamp.com for more information.

Photo submitted

In 1982, Tom Backhus started the Vail Summer Football Camp. Backhus, a former high school all-American and offensive lineman for the 1968 national champion Ohio State Buckeyes, now lives in Paonia and returns to Vail every summer to the camp.

SURFACE CREEK June 20, 2018

NEWS

Section

www.deltacountyindependent.com

Arts center opening draws a crowd BY DON BENJAMIN Staff Writer

People began arriving early last Friday afternoon to celebrate the grand opening of Grand Mesa Arts & Events Center (GMAEC). Soon a growing crowd of arts enthusiasts lined the sidewalk at the corner of West Main and SW 2nd streets in downtown Cedaredge to await the official ribbon cutting. Caught up in the community spirit, three local girls opened an impromptu lemonade and popcorn stand. Accepting donations, Izzy and Maya Cerise along with Claire Kerrigan earned $80

for the center. State Representative Millie Hamner, Cedaredge Mayor Gene Welch, and town administrator Greg Brinck were among those on hand to address the crowd. The Cedaredge Area Chamber of Commerce was represented by Mitchell Gronenthal, president, and Alisha Komives, executive director. Representing the center and cutting the ribbon were Cindy and David Starr, board president and vice president, respectively. And Deborah Shaffer, GMAEC executive director, in an emotional speech welcomed the visitors.

After the official ribbon cutting at 5 p.m., visitors flowed inside to view an exhibit by local artists Barbara Torke and Daphna Russell. Attendees also enjoyed refreshments provided by local merchants and they took part in a silent auction featuring artwork by children, amateur, and professional artists. The silent auction earned over $3,000 in

donations to the center. An estimated three to four hundred citizens attended the opening. During the threehour event the center’s Bank of Colorado theatre was constantly filled to overflowing as new visitors arrived with each passing minute. Crowds returned again last Saturday and Sunday to fill the 175seat theatre for two sold-out

inaugural performances by David Starr, Erik Stucky and Ben Harris. In the coming months, the center will host a wide variety of events and activities including art and movement classes as well as community celebrations and live performances. For current events, visit the Grand Mesa Arts and Events Center’s Facebook page.

Cedaredge to consider drought restrictions June 21 The Cedaredge Board of Trustees will consider moving into Stage II drought restrictions at its Thursday, June 21, regular meeting. The meeting begins at 5 p.m. in the Grand Mesa Room of the Cedaredge Civic Center. Stage II restrictions call for temporary water rate increases for usage over 10,000 gallons. Outdoor watering restrictions and banning the sale and use of fireworks is also included

in the restrictions. If trustees approve Stage II, the restrictions would be effective on June 25; utility customers will see the rate increase reflected on their July usage, which is billed at the end of July. The draft resolution is available for review at town hall, and the public is invited to attend the June 21 meeting to hear the discussion and comment during constituent time.

Photo by Don Benjamin

An overﬂow crowd gathered last Friday in downtown Cedaredge to celebrate the grand opening of the community’s new arts center.

Orchard City declares ‘critical’ water shortage BY DON BENJAMIN Staff Writer

At last week’s regular meeting the Orchard City Board of Trustees passed a resolution declaring a “critical water supply shortage by reason of drought and setting mandatory water conservation measures.” The drought resolution and other water issues dominated the meeting. The resolution calls for mandatory measures to enforce water use restrictions by establishing billing tiers that increase rates as customer water use increases. It also establishes watering times and notifies the public that no new water taps will be authorized until the current crisis ends. Violations may lead to water service disconnection. The resolution was prompted by the continuation of dry weather, the limitations of the town’s filtration system, and an inability to convince citizens to voluntarily reduce water usage. Trustees indicated that the ultimate goal of the restrictions is to reduce town water usage by 50 percent and keep from tapping town water reserves. Additional restrictions may be enacted if the drought continues. The trustees will continue to monitor water usage closely and they are asking for community cooperation during this challenging time. In other water related matters, the trustees approved a proposal to expend funds for treatment plant expansion. The present plant is already operating at capacity and the expansion will add more filtration capability. A request for a water allot-

ment was presented by Mike Vrabel, speaking on behalf of the Authentic Hemp Company. Vrabel asked the trustees for a guaranteed allocation of water in order to operate a commercial hemp production facility in Orchard City. His company, which is headquartered in Carbondale, already operates in Paonia and Hotchkiss. Mayor Ken Volgamore responded that the town was unable to provide such a guarantee particularly during the current time of prolonged drought. Other trustees agreed and the request for allotment was denied. Prior to passing the drought resolution, the trustees approved a water tap application for an out-of-town vacant lot. This property will not likely be a water user in the near future and this was the last water tap that will be granted until the drought has abated sufficiently to rescind the resolution. In their final action related to water, the trustees authorized town administrator, Melissa Oelke, to lease additional water offered by the Kehmeier family who own senior water rights to their private reservoir. The leased water can be traded for water in the Ward Creek drainage which serves Orchard City. In hopes that others might make similar lease offers, the trustees also granted Oelke authority to lease additional water as needed at her discretion. The town has funds in a water acquisition account for this purpose. The trustees discussed a special committee which will involve citizens and town officials in rewriting the town’s

current drought mitigation policy. The drought force committee will meet to revise town policy for future use. Citizen members will be sought by including an invitation for citizen participation in the next round of water bills. Since trustee Doug Keller raised an issue earlier under unfinished business regarding whether the trustees as a group or the mayor can or should appoint

committee members, the appointment of trustees to the drought force committee and other committee appointments was tabled for further discussion. In other action, the trustees approved a road overlay and chip-seal bid and rescheduled their July work session to account for the Fourth of July holiday. For July only, the dates of upcoming meet-

ings are a work session on Tuesday, July 3, and a regular meeting Wednesday, July 11. Barring special meetings or holidays, the Orchard City Board of Trustees meet for a work session on the first Wednesday of each month and for a regular meeting on the second Wednesday. Meetings are held at 7 p.m. at 9661 2100 Road in Austin. The public is encouraged to attend.

Orchard City residents appeal for trash and blight relief Trustees cite lack of ordinances and funds to address the problem BY DON BENJAMIN Staff Writer

Two dozen citizens were on hand at last week’s regular meeting of the Orchard City Board of Trustees. While water issues dominated the agenda, it was during constituent time that residents voiced their concerns on other matters. Sylvester Sheets asked why the town doesn’t have any trash ordinances. He said that his neighbors in Eckert have accumulated a substantial trash pile. Pam Simpson presented photographs of the property at 8979 Marshalls Road. In October 2017 an explosion leveled the structure there leaving debris which has since been dislodged and dispersed

by wind. Simpson maintained the property represents a health and safety issue for the community. Due to the age of the destroyed home, Simpson — who has worked as a real estate agent — is convinced that the debris includes asbestos. Moreover the exploded structure was allegedly the site of a meth lab and remnants of that illegal business may also be contaminating the site. Simpson is a 40-year resident of Orchard City who served as a town trustee from 1990-2000 and she was critical of the lack of action on the part of the town and trustees in resolving the matter. She stated that she has made numerous attempts to get the town to act but has been met with a “do-nothing approach.” Trustees responded that the town has no ordinances or source of funds to deal with the problem. Simpson coun-

tered that, despite these limitations, the trustees should take the initiative to contact the Delta County Health Department and ask for their assistance. She felt that failing to deal with the debris is exposing the trustees and the town to liability. Tom Huerkamp, who has served as Orchard City mayor and town trustee in the past, addressed the trustees during constituent time. He reminded fellow constituents that the town has no code to address the issues raised by Sheets and Simpson. As for enforcing penalties for code violations, a municipal court is needed and a court system is expensive. Asked if the Delta County court system could be a resource, he suggested that, although Delta County would not take civil cases that might arise from future Orchard BLIGHT RELIEF TO C2

Animal shelter grand opening set for June 23 BY DON BENJAMIN Staff Writer

The Surface Creek Animal Shelter invites the public to the grand opening of its new building this coming Saturday. Folks are invited to bring their dogs for a walk along the nearby Surface Creek Trail at 9:30 a.m. Then, starting at 10:30 a.m. volunteers will conduct tours of the new shelter at 265 SE High Country Avenue and groomers, trainers, and volunteers will be on hand. The ribbon cutting ceremony will be held at 11 a.m. T-Shirts are available for a minimum donation. Free cupcakes and drinks for people. Goodie bags for cats and dogs. For information call Bruce Joss at 303-907-1417.

Photo by Don Benjamin

‘Annual’ fundraiser

Photo by Don Benjamin

The renovation of the Surface Creek Animal Shelter has resulted in more space for local dogs and cats in need of adoption. The grand opening of the newly enlarged facility is Saturday, June 23.

Leeta Anderson (right) and her daughter Tanya LaBofﬁere of Cedaredge were among scores of plant enthusiasts who bought items at the community garden’s annual plant sale. Each year Living Waters Nursery of Eckert and Mile High Greenhouse and Nursery located between Eckert and Cory donate excess stock for the Cedaredge garden’s fundraiser. Only a few plants were left after the one-day sale and those were transplanted into the community garden. The sale is held every summer in High Country Park just north of the community garden on S.E. High Country Avenue. In a related issue, the same park has been proposed as a future site for a new farmers market coming to Cedaredge sometime in the late summer.

C2 Wednesday, June 20, 2018

SURFACE CREEK NEWS

Delta County Independent

Pioneer Town celebrates June with loads of fun beer brats and hotdogs. There will be a honky tonk piano and card tricks in the saloon. A scavenger hunt, roaming cowboys, and a silent auction will round out the raucous evening. The Chapel of the Cross summer concert series continues June through August. Upcom-

BY DON BENJAMIN Staff Writer

Mark your calendar for events at Cedaredge’s historic Pioneer Town. The Night on the Town event is set for Saturday, June 30, from 6 to 9 p.m. As with past years, the family fun night includes live music, games, and refreshments including

�UNE 25-29

VACATION BIBLE SCHOOL

9 a.m.-Noon K – 8th Grades

Fun, Snacks, Train, Zip Line, Crafts, Music and much more.

GRAND MESA SOUTHERN BAPTIST CHURCH Hwy. 65 & SE Jay • Cedaredge • www.grandmesasbc.org

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ing artists for this month are: June 21 at 7 p.m. — The Solar Brothers, guitar and vocals. June 24 at 4 p.m. — The Scones, rockin’ American music from the 1960s. June 28 at 7 p.m. — Shelley Ray, guitar and vocals Pioneer Town opened its doors in 1981 as a living history village with a gift shop, museums, and twenty-five historic buildings on five acres. The site is owned and operated by the Surface Creek Valley Historical Society which is actively seeking new members. Members receive a quarterly newsletter and free admission to Pioneer Town events. Pioneer Town is open from Memorial Day weekend through the first weekend of October, Monday through Saturday 10 a.m. – 4 p.m. and Sunday 1 p.m. – 4 p.m. To learn more about the Surface Creek Valley Historical Society and Pioneer Town visit their website: https://www. pioneertown.org.

Photo by Don Benjamin

Helping hands

A small but determined group of volunteers turned out last Saturday to travel throughout the Surface Creek area helping elderly residents with yard work and household tasks. The “Service Saturday” event was sponsored by A Little Help, a nonproﬁt organization that connects volunteers with their neighbors so that seniors can stay in their homes. Pictured (front row, left to right) are Karin Marchun, Delta County Options for Long Term Care; C.J. Simmers, Hotchkiss; Lori Lenhart, Montrose; and Anne Johnson, Ridgway; (back row) Dan Overmeyer, Volunteers of America social worker; Brian Marchun, Cedaredge; Brian Bowler, Delta County Adult Protective Services; and Kathy Edwards, Delta County coordinator for A Little Help. Going forward the organization continues to seek volunteers in Delta County. Contact Edwards at 970-527-3482 or email kathy@alittlehelp.org.

Trustees receive audit report BY DON BENJAMIN Staff Writer

The Town of Cedaredge Board of Trustees met for a work session on Thursday, June 14. The bulk of the session was devoted to a presentation of the results of the town’s independent audit by Pete Blair of Blair and Associates, P.C. Blair’s official letter to the town stated, “We have audited the accompanying financial statements of the governmental activities, the business-type activities, each major fund, and the aggregate remaining fund information for the Town of Cedaredge, Colorado, as of and for the year ended Dec. 31, 2017.”

Cubs reunion planned A reunion of the Cedaredge High School Cubs is planned Aug. 10 and 11. Classmates will gather at The Pondy on Main Street in Cedaredge Friday, Aug. 10, beginning at 6 p.m. On Saturday, Aug. 11, a gathering is planned at the pavilion in Cedaredge Town Park beginning at 11:30 a.m. Lunch will commence at 12:30 p.m. and is being prepared by members of VFW Post #9221. Lawn chairs are suggested. For more information, call Steven Briscoe at 874-3869.

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The findings were presented in a 76-page document along with supporting reports. The audit reported no major issues with town finances and Blair described the town’s net financial position as “going in the right direction.” Most of the town’s resources are restricted to providing services to citizens and retiring debt. The town’s overall total resources increased from 2016 to 2017, jumping from $18.2 million in 2016 to $18.6 million in 2017. Of this amount, nearly $1.4 million is, as the audit put it, “unrestricted and available to meet the town’s ongoing financial obligations.” The work session also previewed items to be acted upon at the trustees’ regular meeting on Thursday, June 21. Included on Thursday’s action agenda are the following:

• Consideration of a resolution to adopt a stage II drought plan. • An appointment to the town planning commission. • A special event liquor license for the Surface Creek Valley Historical Society. • Agreements on use of the town’s civic center building. Time is allotted at the start and end of all regu-

lar 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.

Blight relief FROM PAGE C1 City ordinances, county health officials might be involved if issues such as trash become health hazards. Acknowledging that there are several related issues in town limits such as abandoned trailers, the trustees indicated that they will refer the matters raised by constit-

uents Sheets and Simpson to the town planning commission. Mayor Ken Volgamore stated that it takes money to make things like town ordinances happen and enforcing ordinances also requires funds. He noted that the town does not collect property taxes and that voters have recently rejected tax measures.

Free community concert The 101st Army Rock Band and the 101st Army Winds Band will be featured in a free community concert Thursday, June 21, 6 p.m., in the Cedaredge Town Park. Bring your blankets or chairs and enjoy this great music performed in a family-friendly environment. Feel free to bring a picnic dinner, or enjoy take out from one of the many delicious restaurants in Cedaredge. VFW Post #9221 will post the colors just before the performance

and Cedaredge Library will offer popsicles from 5 to 6 p.m. as part of the summer reading program.

During intermission, purchase pie and root beer floats from the Cedaredge Area Chamber of Commerce.

101st Army Rock Band

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Summer spruce-up

Photo by Don Benjamin

Larry John (left) and Rich Menapace, members of the Cedaredge First Baptist Church, paint the ﬁnishing touches on the parsonage next to the sanctuary on Main Street. Erected in 1907, the historic building was designated a town treasure last year.

TELEVISION LISTINGS

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TELEVISION LISTINGS

Delta County Independent

SURFACE CREEK NEWS

Delta County Independent

Wednesday, June 20, 2018

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

A large part of Plant Health Care (PHC) is IPM, or Integrated Pest Management. What does this entail? In a strictly science-based sense it means that after evaluating all available management options, you select one or a combination of several that satisfy the outcome you desire at a cost you can afford and with the least impact on the environment. Once a pest problem appears it is then time to evaluate your need to manage verses your desire to cause as little

disruption as possible to your garden. So you alone must determine how much plant damage you can tolerate and how many bugs is too much. The “best method” approach is an intelligent approach to problem solving. While there is no such thing as “a balance in nature,” you do need to be aware that there are good guys or natural enemies in your garden as well as pollinators you just might want to save. But remember that insects such as aphids can increase their numbers dramatically, far outstripping the control capabilities of our existing natural enemies.

Lady beetle eating aphids

While there are less toxic management tools available to address plant problems, they usually only suppress pest numbers and do not eliminate the problem. But this may be all that is needed. There are biological pesticides such as Bacillus thuringiensis that affect only certain caterpillars and no other insects or wildlife. There are species specific Insect Growth Regulators (IGR) that prevent developing insects from becoming adults. Sometimes the use of fertilizers can cause outbreaks of pests such as aphids. And the synthetic pyrethroid insecticides such as Permethrin, while very effective against a broad spectrum of insect pests, can cause outbreaks of aphids and spider mites. When I need to spray for insects or weeds, I use targeted applications, rarely broadcast spraying. This minimizes drift problems from herbicides and may leave untreated areas where natural enemies are left unmolested. Horticultural oils are another option for smothering insect eggs as they overwinter on deciduous trees and shrubs. One approach I rarely support is the release of

Stillings qualifies to compete at national junior high rodeo Jessie Stillings, a seventh grade student at Cedaredge Middle School, has earned a position on the Colorado National Junior High rodeo team and will be traveling with fellow teammates to Huron, S.D., June 24-30 to compete at the 14th annual National Junior High Finals Rodeo (NJHFR) in barrel racing, pole bending and ribbon roping. Featuring roughly 1,000 contestants from 43 states, five Canadian provinces, Australia and Mexico, the NJHFR is the world’s largest junior high rodeo. In addition to competing for cash prizes, NJHFR contestants will also be vying for more than $200,000 in college scholarships and the chance to be

named a National Junior High Finals Rodeo World Champion. To earn this title, contestants must finish in the top 20, based on their combined times/scores in the first two rounds, to advance to Saturday evening’s final round. World champions will then be determined based on their threeround combined times/ scores. The Saturday championship performance will be televised nationally as part of the Cinch High School Rodeo Tour telecast series on RFDTV. Live broadcasts of all NJHFR performances will air on www.Ride Pass.com. Performance times are 7 p.m. on June 24 and 9 a.m. and 7 p.m. each subsequent day. Along with great

rodeo competition and the chance to meet new friends from around the world, NJHFR contestants have the opportunity to enjoy shooting sports, volleyball, contestant dances, family-oriented activities, church services sponsored by the Fellowship of Christian Cowboys, and shopping at the NJHFR trade show, as well as visiting area attractions around Huron. To follow your local favorite, visit www. NHSRA.com daily for complete results.

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Community yard sale, flea market planned As part of the Celebrate Cedaredge Community Fair on Saturday, July 14, a community yard sale and flea market will take place in the parking lot of the town’s public works facility on High Country Avenue across from Cedaredge FoodTown. The event will run from 9 a.m. – 3 p.m. Booth spaces are just $10 for a 10 x 10 space. Applications for a space are available online at www. CedaredgeColorado.com, at Cedaredge Town Hall, by emailing townclerk@ cedaredgecolorado.com or by calling 856-3123. In addition to the community yard sale and flea market, Cedaredge Town Park will be bustling with vendors, live music, events and activities for the whole family. Vendor spaces for this event are still available as well; contact town hall for more information or for an application.

lab reared or field collected beneficial insects. Lady beetles are a popular option but rarely stay where you release them. You might consider purchasing green lacewing eggs. You probably would have more luck with this release than others. Now biocontrol of weeds, especially introduced exotic weeds is another story. The Colorado Department of Agriculture Insectary in Palisade is a source of several weed control agents. They presently are rearing both a mite and a moth caterpillar for Field Bindweed control. For Puncturevine (Goathead) they have both seed and stem weevils. Many, but not all of the biocontrol agents they are rearing can be purchased, but may only be available at certain times of the year. They can be ordered from the insectary by calling toll free at (866) 324-2963. Also visit their website, www. palisadeinsectary.com for more information. The overall benefit of the PHC approach and even more specifically the IPM approach is that we can often use effective alternatives to the more toxic pesticides and we are more aware of the interaction of all the elements in our landscapes which in turn allows us to cause less disruption in our gardens. Maintaining our gardens does not always require a heavy hand but it also doesn’t mean we have to go totally organic if that is not our goal. Jim Leser retired to Cedaredge in 2007 after a career with Texas A&M University Extension in entomology. He is a member of the Cedaredge Tree Board and a Colorado Master Gardener.

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Email ads to: ads@deltacountyindependent.com

C6 Wednesday, June 20, 2018

CHURCH

Delta County Independent

Pony Camp offered this week Pony Camp, presented by Cowboy at the Cross Ministries, will be held Friday through Sunday at the Kier Ranch, one mile west of the Cory

Store on Tongue Creek Road. Pony Camp is a day camp for kids ages seven and under. Each day consists of a craft proj-

Game on! VBS planned in Cedaredge Vacation Bible school is scheduled June 25-29, from 9 to noon each day, at Grand Mesa Southern Baptist Church at 110 SE Jay Avenue in Cedaredge. For registration information, visit www.grand mesasbc.org. At last year’s vacation Bible school, the kids loved riding the zip line and train. Both will be back again this year,

along with Bible study that ties in with music, arts and crafts, and sports activities. Snacks will be provided to keep the kids’ energy high. Vacation Bible school is a great way to break up the summer boredom. Kids will perform for parents and guests Friday, June 29, at 6 p.m. Come celebrate their week of fun.

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ect, arena time, snack and chapel time where there is an age appropriate Bible lesson and song. Please note, horses are NOT provided, nor required. You must either bring your own, borrow a horse or enter the goat roping class. Cost is $50. Kids choose to participate in one of the following classes: Goat roping — Roping and tying goats from the ground. No horses will be used in this class. Buddy riders — Bring your horse and ride while your guardian leads you. Lone rangers — Bring your horse and ride by yourself. Other activities may include stick horse races, horse decorating and puppet shows!

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BY DON BENJAMIN Staff Writer

Nancy Hovde, HopeWest development officer, reports that the organization’s first annual family fun day hosted 350 people and earned $8,000 for the nonprofit group. The event featured yard games for all ages, a barbecue meal, and live music. It was held on June 6 in Cedaredge on the spacious grounds of the Hovde residence. HopeWest provides care for those facing serious illness and grief. Every year the organization serves thousands

of patients and individuals coping with grief in Mesa, Delta, Montrose, Ouray and Rio Blanco counties. In addition to periodic fundraising events, the organization operates Heirlooms for Hospice, a thrift store in Delta at 532 Main Street. Staffed by volunteers, the thrift shop generates funds to support HopeWest services. For more information about HopeWest’s hospice, palliative care, or grief support, visit HopeWestCO.org or call 970-874-6823.

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Each camper must be accompanied by a guardian. The only exception is if two siblings both do goat roping, then they may share a guardian. Camp runs Friday through Sunday from 9 a.m. till 11:30. Snacks will be provided. Horses may be left overnight (but children may not!). Sunday will include a demonstration of what the kids have worked on throughout the week for family and friends to come watch. The pony show begins at 10 a.m. followed by a short kidfriendly church service. For further information and/or registration, call 835-3897 or visit Cowboy at the Cross website or Facebook page.

Family fun day deemed a success

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Classifieds

June 20, 2018

Real Estate

D SECTION

Delta County Independent

BUY • SELL • TRADE

Real Estate

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Classified Line Ad Rates

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$8.00 for first issue (25 words or less) 12¢ per additional word 1/2 off each consecutive issue.

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Customers must pay when they drop off the ad, mail in a check so it arrives at least by Wednesday, put the ad on their debit or credit card, or charge the ad to their established account.

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Deadlines

10:00 a.m. Monday for Wednesday edition. Noon Monday for "Too Late to Classify." ��

�� 401 Meeker St. Delta • 874-4421

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Notices LOOKING FOR ANYONE interested in learning or forming a Hula group. Ages from 16 up. Email me at jobee1940@hotmail. com. Let me know if you are a beginner or have some experience. (2x24)

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Help Wanted

Wanted ��

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For Sale

LOOKING FOR CARPOOL starting 7/9, M-F, Delta to GJ. LeaveDelta bet 6:45 - 7:30 (AM); leave GJ bet 4:15 and 5:30 (PM). Good references and dependable car. Looking to add 3 riders. Reply: rjdccamp@tds. net. (2x24)

Recreational Vehicles 2005 BORN FREE 26’ RSB motor home for sale by owner. Clean as a whistle, never smoked into/pets, was our baby! 970-9215480. (4x24)

Help Wanted

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BEAR RANCH LLC IS seeking applicants for two full time positions in General Maintenance and Ranch Laborer. Applicants must have experience in the position they are applying for. Please send resume to Bear Ranch LLC, 26767 County Road #12, Somerset, CO 81434. Phone inquiries; HELP WANTED: FARM 970-929-5336. Bear Ranch laborers also fruit stand LLC is an Equal Opportunity retail. 323-5116. (6x25) Employer. (4x22) ROGERS MESA FRUIT Co. is now taking applications for seasonal packers and sorters for the 2018 packing season. Come in to fill out an application M-F 8 a.m.-4 p.m. 9981 3100 Road, Hotchkiss, CO 81419. We are located on the corner of Hwy 92 & 3100 Rd. (2x25

SEEKING PART TIME, energetic, caring, experienced dental hygienist to join our general practice in Paonia area. We are looking for someone who values quality patient care, is a strong communicator, team player, understands dental needs, and believes in periodontal care. Call 970-527-4853 or email paoniadental@gmail.com. (4x24)

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Classified Advertising Makes Sense!

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to reserve your space now!

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Call 874-4421

D2 Wednesday, June 20, 2018 Help Wanted

CLASSIFIEDS

Help Wanted

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Help Wanted ��

Call Randy Crespin at 874-4421.

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Delta County Independent

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. (4x25)

YOU CAN QUIT. WE CAN help. Colorado Tobacco Quitline offers free, confidential assistance. Call 1800-QUIT-NOW.

Public Service IF YOU KNOW A MILItary or veteran family who is struggling, encourage them to call our toll-free Military and Veteran Family Help line at (800) 314-4200. This free service offers information, creates connections and gives hope to struggling families. It can even be a family's first step to moving to the National Home. And it's all possible because of your generous support!

THE AMERICAN LEGION Post 97 Paonia is seeking the names and addresses of all persons currently serving on active duty in the military from the North Fork THE DELTA COUNTY Valley in order to contact Independent runs these them and show our supitems as a public service port. Send addresses to free of charge for non-profit American Legion Post 97, organizations, if no fees are PO Box 277, Paonia, CO WOMEN ONLY AA MEETings, Delta, Saturdays, 11:00 charged. However, each 81428 or call 527-6252. a.m., at St. Luke's Episcopal group is asked to please PARENTS FREE! INFORMChurch, 5th & Palmer (back keep them current by callation and referrals to door). ing 874-4421. licensed child care providTHE KINGS TABLE SOUP ers, call Bright Futures Child FREE DIAPERS FOR UP Kitchen needs egg cartons. Care Resource and Referral, to one year! Pregnant If you have any to give 1-877-728-5613. women in Delta County can please call 250-6637 and we now get help to quit smokSUPPORT THE DELTA will pick up. ing and get something they Public Library. Give a gently can really use after their DOMESTIC VIOLENCE used book in the Downstairs baby arrives — free diapers. Support Group for Adults Book Store. Healthy moms have healthy and Children: Every babies. Enroll in the Baby & FOSTER GRANDPARENT Wednesday in Delta from Me Tobacco Free program Program enriches the lives 5-7 p.m. there will be a free today. Contact the Delta of senior volunteers while support group for adults County Health Department whose lives have been improving the education of at 874-2165 or your local children with special needs. impacted by domestic viophysician. lence and a separate group Volunteers, 55 and older, needed to assist in class for children at the same WELCOME RETURNING time. Please call 970-874- rooms tutoring and mentor- Veterans, Post 9221 VFW ing children. Low-income meets at 5:00 p.m. on the 4941 to sign up. volunteers may qualify for 4th Thursday of each month WANNA PLAY A ROUND? a stipend. Teachers in Delta in Cedaredge. To find out Golf with a fun group of area class rooms request how to participate in proladies. Two membership "Grandparents" to come moting patriotism and options available. Sign up in and work with students assisting veterans, contact at www.cedaredgeladies who need the extra help to Wayne Hamrick, (970) 250golf.com. Get to know us achieve their best. For infor- 1180. on Facebook at “cedar mation on how you can use edgeladiesgolfclub” your talents to help kids call AARP DRIVER SAFETY Tanya at 298-9091. Course. Save on insurance, ALCOHOLICS ANONYkeep up on newer traffic mous meets Thursdays at 7 PARENTS — FREE laws, learn defensive drivp.m. Friends of Bill W. Club. information and referrals ing techniques. For details 897 Palmer Street, Delta. for licensed child care pro- and schedule contact John viders. Call Bright Futures CO FATHER’S NETWORK- Child Care Resource & Loring (970) 856-6924 or (970) 424-1778. dedicated to providing Referral at 877-728-5613. community and education AL-ANON: HOPE AND to fathers of special needs COLORADO QUITLINE IS help for families and kids. Meets twice monthly a free, confidential tele- friends of alcoholics meets on the 1st Saturday at 11 phone coaching service in Cedaredge: Al-Anon, a.m. and the 3rd Monday for anyone calling from a Thursdays, 8 pm, Wick Hall at 6:30 p.m. - 511 E. 10th St, Colorado area code. With behind First Baptist Church, Delta. See our website for QuitLine, tobacco users can 370 W. Main St., contact more details: www.codads. receive free supplies of the Mary M. 970-856-6123 or nicotine patch as they work Jim 970-874-7855. org with trained coaches who AL-ANON AND ALATEEN: create a personalized quit HOTCHKISS-CRAWFORD Hope and help for families plan just for them. To con- Historical Museum. Winter and friends of alcoholics tact the QuitLine, call 1-800- hours, Saturdays 1-4 p.m. meets in Delta: Al-Anon and QUIT-NOW (1-800-784-8669) $3 admission or free to Alateen, Tuesdays at 7:30 or visit www.coquitline.org. members. Come see our pm, St. Luke’s Episcopal museum at 2nd & Hotchkiss Church, 145 W. 5th St., con- THE DELTA COUNTY Streets in Hotchkiss. 872tact Elizabeth 970-874-9832 Democratic Party invites 3780. or Shirley 970-323-5067. you to visit their Facebook page for announcements, AIF YOU LOVE BOOKS, CARING FOR CARE- information and intelligent you will love the Downstairs givers, C4C - support- discussion of issues. You Bookstore in the basement ing hearts that care. Open are not alone! Contact of the Delta Library. to ANY caregiver. Meets www.facebook.com/pages/ monthly in Delta, 2nd CO-Delta-County-Democrat NARCOTICS ANONYTuesday at 11 a.m. - 511 E. s/109082339170167. mous meets at 9th and 10th St, Delta. Palmer, Delta, Mondays and ALZHEIMER'S ASSOC- Fridays at 8 p.m. THE ABRAHAM CONNEC- iation Caregivers' Support tion homeless shelter, Group, Delta. Hospice and DELTA FOOD PANTRY located at 480 Silver St., Palliative Care of Western needs meals for Delta famiDelta, offers emergency Colorado, Grand Mesa lies who are temporarily overnight shelter and food Oncology Center, 1501 E. in need. Donations of nonto men, women and fami- 3rd Street, Tuesdays at 2 perishable food may be lies in the Delta area mid- p.m. brought to 628 Meeker. October- April. Call us at KEEP THE 970-773-8290 to make a IF YOU THINK YOU HELP!!! referral, or for informa- have a drinking problem... animal population under tion on how to volunteer Alcoholics Anonymous control, and SAVE an anior donate. www.Delta can help. There are weekly mal's life. Adopt your new AbrahamConnection.org. AA meetings throughout cat or dog from the Delta the North Fork area and County Humane Society. HOSPITAL VOLUNTEERS beyond. For meeting times Adoption fee is minimal. Wanted! Delta County and locations call AA at 970- Call 874-2149. Memorial Hospital needs 245-9649 or 888-333-9649. hospital volunteers. Days Or go to the website www. THERE IS A VFW MEETING and hours are flexible. There aa-westerncolorado.org. on the first Monday of each are currently openings Alcoholics Anonymous can month. At 6 p.m. there is a potluck and the meeting is in the ER, Oncology, Gift help! at 7 p.m. at the First Baptist Shop and some additional areas. If you are interested, SUPPORT THE DELTA Church, 1250 Pioneer Rd., please contact Volunteer Library. Give a gently used Delta. For further inforCoordinator, Barbara Hall at book in the Downstairs mation, call 874-8172 Jim Baker, Quartermaster. 250-2105 for an application. Book Store.

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Delta County Independent

B A C K P On the birding trail A G E

Photo by Ellie Tunget

These sandhill cranes take flight from Fruitgrowers Reservoir in Delta County. The site is known for attracting waterfowl and other wildlife and is a terrific place for watchable wildlife. It is also the namesake of one of 54 routes identified by the Colorado Birding Trail. The photos with this article feature photographs by Delta County Independent staff, or submitted by local photographers, that showcase the incredible variety of birds to be found along the Fruitgrowers Trail. Other photos are showcased with this article on the DCI website.

elta County has many treasures just waiting to be discovered by folks looking to sample locally produced wines, load up on fresh sweet corn, or putting a trophy deer or elk in their sights. Twice a year, birders gather around Fruitgrowers Reservoir to witness the spring and fall migration of thousands of sandhill cranes. This is the namesake of one of the trails found on the Colorado Birding Trail, showcasing another of Delta County’s treasures ... one of a feathered kind. Described as “a well-kept secret” by the Colorado Parks and Wildlife, Fruitgrowers Trail is part of a state-wide network of locations which birders can expect to find interesting and unique birds to observe. The final section of the Colorado Birding Trail – encompassing the northeast region of Colorado – has been completed, finishing a major tourism initiative to promote outdoor recreation that started 15 years ago in time for bird enthusiasts to get out and celebrate the Year of the Bird. The Colorado Birding Trail was started as a major nature tourism initiative to promote outdoor recreation, conservation of resources by private landowners, and a diversified income for rural economies.

Photo by Randy Sunderland

You never know what will be peering back at you from the golden aspen leaves of the Grand Mesa.

Photo by Randy Sunderland

A lazuli bunting peeks out from the branches of a plum tree in Delta. This colorful bird is a summer resident of the high country.

The trail is unique in that it’s not a physical trail, but a driving-tour map that brings together both public and private lands, with many of the private lands being open to visitation only through their participation as sites on the trail. Colorado Parks and Wildlife’s Statewide Public Programs Coordinator Mary McCormac has been involved with the northeast trail from the very beginning. She said the northeast region offers unique opportunities for Colorado birders. “One of the special qualities of the northeast is urban birdin’, as we call it,” McCormac said. “Here you have some of the most populated areas of the state, yet there is quality wildlife habitat you can explore not too far from home. And for people who may not have the means to travel to sites, these places in their neighborhood may help connect them to wildlife and the outdoors.” Visit the Colorado Birding Trail website at coloradobird ingtrail.com to find 54 different routes, linking almost 800 sites across three distinct regions where birders can find watchable wildlife.

Photo by Norman Sunderland

Newly born killdeer chicks were discovered in a backyard nest. The parents were nearby with their classic “broken wing” dance, trying to divert attention from the youngsters.

“Getting out on the Colorado Birding Trail is a very easy way for people to get started caring about nature and the outdoors,” McCormac said. “They can choose what they want to do and where they want to go. They can travel to remote areas or stay close to home and discover new places they’ve never seen in their neighborhood. From there, you’re planting the seed of growing and fostering that love and appreciation for wildlife and the outdoors. Hopefully we then inspire conservation stewardship, and maybe even some future park rangers and wildlife officers to work for us or our partner agencies someday!” Fruitgrowers Trail is part of the Western Colorado region. It is noted as the “best place on the West Slope of Colorado to see waterbirds, from huge flocks of sandhill cranes to squadrons of shorebirds and flotillas of ducks.” The website describes it as “a wellkept secret,” stating, “Colorado peaches are a well-kept secret — as lush and flavorful as their Georgia cousins, but less of a household name. Likewise, this part of Colorado makes few headlines, but is rich with things to do ... This trail isn’t far off the beaten path, but you’d never know it by visiting — the secret remains well kept.” This trail includes 14 sites, leading birders from Confluence Park and other sites around Delta, to Fruitgrowers Reservoir and the Grand Mesa, winding back into Peach Valley and the Gunnison Gorge National Conservation Area. Then it’s off to the North Fork with stops at the National Fish Hatchery in Hotchkiss, Crawford and Paonia State Parks, and privately owned sites on Zephyros Farm and Raincrow Farm. The Colorado Birding Trail is a partnership between Colorado Parks and Wildlife, American Birding Association, Audubon Rockies, Bird Conservancy of the Rockies, and Colorado Field Ornithologists. The trail was made possible by funding from Great

Birders from around the state and beyond come to Fruitgrowers Reservoir to view sandhill cranes as they stop there along their spring migration to nesting grounds as far north as Alaska and Canada. It is because of this interest that the Colorado Birding Trail identiﬁes a network of 14 sites around Delta County just waiting to be explored. Outdoors Colorado (GOCO), which invests Colorado Lottery proceeds in outdoor recreation and land conservation projects across the state. Additional support for the project was provided by many federal, state, and nonprofit agencies.

“Whether folks are new to birding, real experts, or just headed out on the trail for fun with friends or family, we hope they enjoy their time exploring Colorado’s great outdoors along the Colorado Birding Trail,” said GOCO Executive Director Chris Castilian.

Photo by Tamie Meck

A pair of young golden eagles are nearly ready to leave the nest.

Photo by Pat Sunderland

A bald eagle keeps a sharp eye out for ﬁsh in a stream in the North Fork.