Delta County Independent, June 27, 2018 by Delta County Independent

NORTH FORK TIMES

SURFACE CREEK NEWS

FABULOUS FOURTH Paonia celebrates 72 years of Cherry Days fun, B1-7

SPORTS

WATER WISELY

HITTING HER STRIDE

‘Financial incentives’ encourage water conservation, C1

DHS grad competes against pro runners in national finals, B8

DELTA COUNTY

JUNE 27, 2018 VOL. 135, NO. 26

75¢

INDEPENDENT

www.deltacountyindependent.com

Visitation at Fort Uncompahgre soars BY PAT SUNDERLAND Managing Editor

Visitation at Fort Uncompahgre has quadrupled since the U.S. Forest Service information office was moved there earlier this summer. The opening of the fort’s expanded visitor center was celebrated Saturday, June 23, with dignitaries from the city, county and Interpretive Association of Western Colorado, which operates the city-owned fort. Chris Miller, IAWC executive director, said IAWC is in the fourth of a five-year agreement intended to add value to an existing asset. The fort, a replica of the trading post established by Antoine Robidoux, was erected 29 years ago. During the first three years under IAWC, the fort was operated entirely by volunteers. This year, the fort gained an employee when the USFS information center was moved out of the forest headquarters on the south end of Delta, due to extensive remodeling. IAWC has always been committed to maintaining the

living history museum, but Miller said that wasn’t enough to pay the bills. One day she realized how many travelers were stopping at the free RV dump station just west of the fort, and she decided to create an information hub for all of the surrounding public lands, including the three national conservation areas on BLM land. There’s always been great access to the fort, and visibility increased with the completion of the alternate truck route. Miller has relentlessly pursued additional signage to direct visitors to the fort. A partnership with the Nature Connection further enhances the value of the fort. Some programming is already taking place with the goal of getting more kids outdoors in their own backyard. Soon, the fort will be the site of a gear hub with fishing and camping gear for local youth to check out. Five tipis will be set up among the cottonwood trees, creating another opportunity for outdoor education. FORT TO A3

Photo by Pat Sunderland

Cool down

Jerome, a bicyclist from Castle Rock, stretches in the shade of Conﬂuence Park following a 87-mile ride from Carbondale. The Bicycle Tour of Colorado took several hundred cyclists up and over McClure Pass Monday. Their arrival in Delta was marked by temperatures in the upper 90s. Jerome said his ﬁrst stop was Safeway, to cool down in the air conditioned store. After camping out in the park and in the gym at Bill Heddles Recreation Center, the riders were back in the saddle for another day of climbing, this time to the top of Grand Mesa and on to Palisade for an overnight stop. They’ll enjoy a day off in Glenwood Springs after a 75-mile ride on Wednesday. The ride ends in Leadville.

New museum curator honors tradition BY KAYLEE DUNHAM Contributing Writer

Laurie Elendu has been named the curator of the Delta Museum. She replaces longtime museum director Jim Wetzel, who continues to serve the Delta County Historical Society as a board member and volunteer. From the time she was born until the sixth grade, Laurie Elendu grew up in Delta. She moved to Durango with her family until the eighth grade,

when her family moved once again, this time to Holyoke. Laurie finished out her high school years in Holyoke. She began pursuing a degree in engineering from Fort Lewis College, however, but she decided engineering was not for her and she transferred to Colorado State University, where she studied studio arts. Laurie transferred to Michigan State University where she minored in history of art, student taught, and

School district office to move in early July BY PAT SUNDERLAND Managing Editor

Classrooms may be quiet during the summer months, but business is humming at the administrative offices of Delta County Joint School District #50. The district office is poised to move into its new downtown Delta location, staff vacancies are being filled and summer maintenance projects are proceeding at full throttle. Two principal positions in Hotchkiss have been filled. Marty Rover, former assistant principal at Delta Middle School, is taking the leadership role at Hotchkiss High School. Bryan Hollembeak is moving back to Delta County to serve as principal of Hotchkiss K-8. Barring last-minute resignations, personnel director Jim Farmer said all teaching positions have been filled for the 2018-19 school year. Remodel of the Bank of

INDEX

Accent ........................... A4 Activities ......................A11 Back Page ................... D6 Business .......................A12 Church ............................C6 Classifieds .................. D1-2 Editorial ......................... A2 Legals ......................... D3-4 North Fork Times ........B1-7 Obituaries ....................A10 School Zone .................. A7 Service Directory ........ D5 Sports .............................B8 Surface Creek News ...C1-5 TV Listings ..................C3-4

Colorado building at 145 W. 4th Street is nearly complete. School administrators anticipate closing the district office in Read July 4, 5 and 6 to move telephone and internet connections. Staff will make the move Monday, July 9. A school board retreat on July 16 and the monthly school board meeting on July 19 are both scheduled at the new location. The major construction project at Delta Middle School is in the demolition phase, highlighted by asbestos abatement in the sixth grade wing, removal of a number of large cottonwood trees from the construction site, and digging up the damaged asphalt pull-through in front of the Delta Family Center. The second story of the Delta Family Center is being renovated to accommodate sixth grade classes during the 2018-19 school year.

earned a master’s degree in art history, integrative studies and interior design for historic preservation. One of her hobbies is sculpting. She is very passionate about art, stories and volunteering. She believes it’s critical that she engages herself in the community. As the new curator for the Delta Museum, Elendu wants to bring more visitors into the museum by providing value. She says that sometimes when a story is told people do not listen because they are not a part of it. “People want to see them-

selves in the story,” she said. “When people see themselves in the story they are going to come. In a story, you must reflect what is inherently valuable to the people who live here.” Her long history of working with and for museums makes her knowledgeable about what will draw people to exhibits. When she was young Laurie and her family traveled. They visited museums and old cemeteries, finding tombstones that were “works of art.” As a little girl, Laurie wondered about the person buried there and what kinds of stories they had. This helped to start her fascination with history. Later, her fascination grew when her grandfather, the first Sioux Indian to serve in the House of Representatives,

took Laurie and her two sisters to live with him in Washington, D.C., for a month. History came alive. But, Elendu got her real introduction into preserving history when she worked in the archives as a student and later worked with Dr. Julie Avery, assistant curator of history at Michigan State University. One of her first projects was putting together four large panels for the state fair. Cohesively, the panels were meant to tell the history of the fair. Marsha McDowell, curator of folk art at Michigan State University, came to Laurie after hearing of her success with the state fair exhibit. McDowell knew about MUSEUM CURATOR TO A10

Pedestrians struck by suspected drunk driver STAFF REPORT

Photo submitted

Laurie Elendu brings extensive experience to the Delta Museum.

A family of five walking eastbound on E. 5th Street was struck from behind by a 26-year-old Delta resident suspected of driving under the influence of alcohol. The Delta Police Department responded to the accident in the area of E. 5th and B Street Friday, June 22, at about 6:45 p.m. An adult male and his 2year-old son were transported to Delta County Memorial Hospital with non-life-threatening injuries. The adult male was later transferred to St. Mary’s Hospital in Grand Junction.

The DPD reports that the family was walking eastbound on E. 5th Street when Ramiro Ortega-Pena came around the corner and struck two of them from behind. Ortega-Pena who initially left the scene, was arrested and booked into the Delta County Jail on charges of vehicular assault, driving under the influence of alcohol, failure to remain at the scene of an accident, failure to report an accident, driving a motor vehicle while license cancelled/denied and reckless endangerment. The case is still under investigation by the Delta Police Department.

Fireworks show is a go

DeltaFest

Primary election

The Delta Volunteer Fire Department will present its annual 4th of July fireworks display at Confluence Lake. The show — the only public fireworks display in Delta County — begins as soon as the sky is dark. The fireworks show is funded entirely by donations, so please be generous when firefighters pass the boot the night of the show. Firefighters will also be collecting donations at Ace Hardware this Saturday, June 30. Donations are also accepted at deltafire.org/donate or by mail at 285 E. 5th St., Delta, CO 81416. The City of Delta reminds citizens that the use, sale, exchange or trade of fireworks in city limits is prohibited at this time. The use of fireworks is also prohibited in unincorporated areas of Delta County.

Several blocks of Main Street will be closed this Thursday for the first Downtown DeltaFest sponsored by the Delta Area Chamber of Commerce this summer. The streets will be lined with vendors, live music and kids’ activities from 5:30 p.m. until dusk Thursday, June 28. The second and final Downtown DeltaFest is scheduled Thursday, Aug. 30. For more information, call 874-8616.

On Tuesday, the final day to vote in Colorado’s primary election, the secretary of state reports that 3,161 Republican and 1,272 Democratic ballots had been returned in Delta County. This year, with the passage of Proposition 108 in 2016, active unaffiliated voters received ballots for both the Democratic and Republican parties in the mail. Just 19 ballots were rejected because the voter returned more than one ballot. Unaffiliated voters had returned 576 Republican ballots and 341 Democrat ballots, as of early Tuesday. See www.deltacountyindependent. com or the DCI’s Facebook page for results.

A2 Wednesday, June 27, 2018

OPINION

LETTERS Good ol’ boys club is alive and well Dear Editor: We have all heard of the good ol’ boys club and shrugged it off, but you don’t understand how it impacts people’s lives until you are a victim of it. In November of 2017, I noticed the county putting up new road signs. I looked when I was walking my dogs and they said Pheasant Rich Road instead of Last Chance Road. I went to the county GIS office to see what was going on and was told that Rick Nelson, owner of Black Canyon Wing and Clay, had changed the road name quite a while ago and it was a done deal. I asked why no one was notified of anything. They didn’t know and sent me to Robbie LeValley, the county administrator. LeValley said the matter would be thoroughly investigated. We heard back from LeValley and were told that after the thorough investigation, it was good to go. Several property owners attended constituent time at a county commissioners’ meeting in April to try to get some answers. We asked why we were not notified of anything and why we were not allowed to object or have any say in a matter that greatly impacts us. We were told the commissioners felt the road needed a new name when it was straightened, so they gave it one. It was their idea and doing. We were told the road had been renamed a long time ago. We were treated like third-class citizens that just needed to shut up and go away.

We were really angry after the meeting, so we walked down the street to the county attorney’s office. The county attorney told us our only recourse was to apply to change the road name back, so we did. During this time, we found out that an email from LeValley was sent to the commissioners stating that Nelson had spoken with all the property owners and they were all in agreement with the name change and that all county departments were in agreement with the name change. Problem is that wasn’t true. Nelson now disputes saying he spoke with everyone and said LeValley made it all up. LeValley blames it on someone in the GIS office who it’s my understanding didn’t even work there at the time all this went on. But that email is what the commissioners supposedly based their decision on. The county put up new road signs in November but didn’t change our addresses, so people couldn’t find us. We were living on a road that didn’t exist for over seven months. I repeatedly expressed my concerns about being able to get emergency services. The county didn’t care. Nelson wanted the road renamed and that was their only concern. Our application to change the road name back was filed and had signatures from people that actually own property on Last Chance Road. Nelson’s application had signatures from people who don’t own property

Initiative 97 is bad for Colorado Dear Editor: Here we go again. Environmental activists (with out of state backers) are trying once again to essentially ban fracking through Initiative 97, even though they failed miserably in 2016. You may remember back in 2016 they tried to trick the Colorado secretary of state’s office with empty boxes and blank petitions in an effort to get their initiative on the ballot. Don’t let them trick you into signing their petition.

The oil and gas industry provides countless benefits to Colorado and to our country. Implementing a 2,500-foot setback would essentially be a ban on oil and gas development in Colorado. I’m sure the out of state environmentalists and activists don’t care what that would do to our economy, but I certainly do. Even if you take the economy out of the equation, how do they plan to replace the comforts that the industry brings to our

Protect our water from fracking Dear Editor: As our local towns start talking about water conservation, most recognize that we are among many counties and states that are facing drought along with a potential increase in wildfires. Individually there are ways we can all conserve, and we should. Programs to be more efficient with agricultural irrigation continue to come forth. Since agriculture is the biggest user of water, that is extremely important. But an issue that does not seem to get the attention of many of our elected officials is the use of water by the fossil fuel industries. In our watershed we now have the Bull Mountain Master Plan (SG Interests and Gunnison Energy) approved for 146 gas wells and four injection wells. Some of this land used to be owned by local ranchers with some of the most pristine water left on the planet — water straight off of the Ragged Mountains. Some ranches there were bought up by billionaires, some from Texas, such as Russell Gordy who owns SG Interests. Billionaire Bill Koch, owner of Gunnison Energy, has bought many acres in and around our valley over the years. As owners of the land they either have the mineral rights or get permits to lease the mineral rights from the BLM. And they potentially have access to water to “frack” with. Now Mr. Koch wants to add 35 more wells just north and west of Paonia in a project called the North Fork Mancos Master Development Plan.

on the road and shouldn’t have a say in the matter. The county notified all property owners of our application and gave them a chance to object. Everyone was notified of the meeting where the application to change the road name back would be considered. Everything was done correctly this time. The county botched everything that could be botched the first time around. We went to the meeting on June 11 and the commissioners denied our application. The road name was changed to benefit one person. Every taxpayer in this county paid for new road signs to benefit one person. Every taxpayer in this county has paid for everything associated with the road name change that benefits one person. Every person living on this road is forced to spend time and money changing absolutely everything because of one person. It is the same as moving. It will be years before Garmin and Google Maps are updated to reflect the new road name, so no one using GPS will be able to find us for years. Will we get emergency services? Who knows. The county doesn’t care. Nelson wanted the new name and he got it and that’s the important thing. The good ol’ boys club is alive and well in Delta County. It does impact people’s lives. We need to drain the swamp and vote in people that are concerned about what is best for all the citizens in this county, not just one. Dear Editor: Brenda Perkins Hey DCED (Delta Delta County Economic Development), what’s up with the “us against them mentality?” You know, the bully tactics, ganging up with the “my way or state and Colorado fami- no way.” lies: warm homes in the On May 29, DCED vice winter, countless manu- president Tom Huerkamp, factured goods, medical president John Gavan, advancements, tax rev- executive director Stacey enue to support educa- Voigt and member Scott tion and recreation, the Thomassen disrupted our list goes on and on. public meeting at the rec I urge you to do your center. The purpose of the homework and decline presentation was to show to sign petitions for this how private enterprise initiative. Please join could help with urgently me and share the facts needed revenues for our about this extreme mea- city. Just private entersure with your family, prise doing what it does friends, and neighbors. best without government #97 is BAD for Colorado. slowing things down. Keira Bresnahan At a February budget Grand Junction session, the city manager explained how our city would be in financial trouble by 2020-2021 so we don’t have a lot of to what it is now. The ini- time to get things turned tiative also grants state around. Mayor Austin and I and local governments were just trying to presthe authority to impose even greater setbacks, ent the idea of a private developer building a with no limitation. A 2016 COGCC study water park in Delta. It concluded that a simi- was a Skype presentalar 2,500-foot setback tion by Mr. Dan Martin initiative that failed to from Market & Feasibilmake the ballot would ity Advisors Corp. in Chieliminate new oil and gas cago. I was very excited the development on 95 perday had finally arrived. I cent of the surface land had started working on in the state’s top five oil this in February at the and gas producing counencouragement of the ties (Weld, Garfield, La Plata, Rio Blanco and city budget committee. I have put the idea out to Las Animas). Make no mistake, Ini- the people randomly and tiative 97 is a ban on did some polling from oil and gas development high school kids to adults in Colorado. If passed, it from all walks of life.

occupied structure or defined vulnerable area. This would increase the minimum setback distance for a residence five times what is legally required now and the setback for a high-occupancy building 2.5 times

KUDOS CU Denver students welcomed Dear Editor: As one of the organizers of the Rural Track Program, Delta County Economic Development would like to recognize community support for the welcome bags that were handed out to participating students: Ace Hardware, First Colorado National Bank, State Farm (Jerry Reiher), Guild Mortgage, Center for Mental Health, Delta County Memorial Hospital, DCED, Delta County Tourism, Hellman Motors, ProSpace, and Arch Coal. All these businesses supported the students and made them feel welcome. I would also like to thank all the community members who made themselves available for interviews with the students, all the restaurants and tours, and the amazing caterer for the community barbecue (Bryan Branning’s Bad Ash BBQ). Our first speaker was the director for WSAHEC, Georgia Hoaglund. Brad Harding from First Colorado National Bank spoke about fluctuating economics and his heritage as fifth generation farming family. Elizabeth Dufek, regional director for the Center for Mental Health, spoke after Jason Cleckler and remained in contact with the students to give them a tour of CMH later in the week. She was also kind enough to speak again on Friday. It was a very positive experience for the students, and we hope Delta County is picked again in the near future for this program. Nicci Robbins, Executive Assistant Delta County Economic Development

(Thanks to the Paonia trustees for sending comments to the BLM stating that a more in-depth environmental impact statement be done instead of a proposed preliminary environmental analysis.) As some become aware of what life in this valley might be like with an extended period of drought, others still seem to not have made the connection between growing food (agriculture) and water. Elected officials in our county seem to still court the production of natural gas, saying we can have it all — clean air and water, recreation, tourism and agriculture — WITH oil and gas drilling. It appears to me that there is an elephant standing in the midst of our watershed that some are not willing to acknowledge or call out. This is an issue for all of us. What we all need to understand is that poisoning water forever by using it in “fracking” cannot go on forever. An industry has been created that fails to take into account the long term consequences. Simply, water — billions of gallons of it — is forced into the earth to release natural gas or oil. The contents of “fracking” fluid are poisonous. The “produced” water that comes up under pressure contains many undesirable elements (often including radioactive elements disturbed in the drilling process). These waters are then injected into the earth (think about Oklahoma and the earthquakes

caused by this process) or sometimes it is hauled “away” for “disposal” to other locations (or as has occurred numerous times — illegally dumped on roads or in streams, poisoning even more water and land). Colorado has approximately 60,000 active oil and gas wells. Most wells are fracked several times. There was a time when Garfield County had more drilling rigs than all of Saudi Arabia. This country exports and imports fossil fuels. The push to create more terminals where LNG (liquified natural gas) can be shipped to the highest bidder makes clear that this is not about energy independence. There is incredible inefficiency in the world in shipping/ transporting oil, coal, LNG ... back and forth. But there is MONEY in it for some. So as I and others shorten our showers, flush toilets less, as orchardists face loss of fruit or even worse loss of their trees, and vegetable growers face a season short of irrigation water (food shortages for all of us), farmers have less hay, etc., when will our governments at all levels see the need to curtail an industry that not only uses water, but poisons it forever and at the same time poses the risk for all of us of that poisoned water making its way into aquifers and rivers and wells far into the future? There are some things we can live without. Water is not one of them. Phyllis Swackhamer Paonia

DCED: Let private enterprise work for the city

Initiative 97 is a train wreck for the economy Dear Editor: Initiative 97 is a trainwreck for Colorado’s economy. Initiative 97 would mandate oil and gas development be set back at least 2,500 feet (eight football fields) from any

Delta County Independent

would lead to the loss of 140,000 jobs and more than $1 billion in revenue to the state. In 2015 and 2016 alone, the oil and gas industry provided $839 million in funding to K-12 education. And over the past eight years, the industry has paid $615 million in severance taxes to help fund new parks and recreation centers, police and fire protection, and transportation projects. This all goes away if Initiative 97 passes. Not a single candidate vying for governor supports Initiative 97. You shouldn’t either. Angela Wetzel Grand Junction

Our business folks said what a great idea to boost business and get some of these boarded-up Main Street buildings going again. They seemed to fully understand the concept of private enterprise coming to town. Let me reiterate, this will be done with private money by private companies, not the city, not DCED and not DURA (Delta Urban Renewal). In a DCED meeting on June 14 Scott Thomassen reportedly said we had to run it by DCED first, meaning the potential water park. Scott’s comment tells me that he thinks DCED runs our city. Why so combative, DCED? Why when our city has donated 50k to DCED to help our community develop new businesses does DCED oppose the idea of private enterprise coming into town? I think the real shocker was the new executive director of DCED, Stacey Voigt, who just moved here from the Front Range. At the 29th meeting, Miss Voigt was quite confrontational with statements referring to a lengthy study involving community members who had not expressed a desire for a water park. “Now you’re coming late in the game,” she said. Then came an interrogation of my credibility. Let me say this: if my credentials intimidate you, oh well. Again I have to ask why is DCED so confrontational? What is

Decline to sign petition for 97 Dear Editor: This summer there will be petition gatherers in our town trying to get any number of things on the November ballot. One measure I wouldn’t sign for is Initiative 97. It basically makes all oil and gas development impossible by increasing the setbacks from 500 feet to 2,500 feet. Sure, oil and gas companies talk constantly about their ability to drill more than a mile horizontally underground, but if you make well pads 2,500 feet

from the nearest occupied structure, you quickly render nearly the entire state unsuitable for drilling. I support strong regulation of oil and gas, but what I don’t support is a wholesale ban on it. Our economy and our very lives run on the products they produce, and such a draconian measure would be a total disaster for the state. When they come up to you and ask for your signature to get 97 on the ballot, decline to sign. Dr. Laurie Stein Cedaredge

DCED afraid of? So, back to the presentation. People loved the ideas being presented, which was what I hoped would happen. Openminded people being on the same page volunteering ideas and connecting to the needs of the community. I had one citizen offer $500 toward the fundraiser for the feasibility study. On the other hand, people said they wanted to say more but felt intimidated by the hostility of the “hecklers.” They did not know they were members of DCED. All in all, some great community-minded folks came and the mayor and I are encouraged. For the first time since February when I asked the city if I could help, it felt like I was helping. Financial oppression has a grip on our city and our mayor has a passion to overcome this, not with the taxpayers’ money but ideas that will attract private developers to invest in our city. We don’t have time for bureaucratic ongoing studies that don’t bother to ask the professional business community how it works. And cost $$$$$$$. If we still want to be that All America City then tell the mayor you support the private investor water park and remind DCED, DURA and city hall who pays the bills around here. Delta is a great city — let’s work together to keep it that way. Scott Schaible Delta

DELTA COUNTY

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LOCAL NEWS

Delta County Independent

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Hwy. 92 closed for barricaded suspect PRESS RELEASE Delta County Sheriff’s Office

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Wednesday, June 27, 2018

toward law enforcement, and was considered possibly armed and dangerous. The CSP trooper was quickly assisted by the Delta County Sheriff ’s Office, additional Colorado State Patrol, Paonia Police Department and Gunnison County Sher-

iff ’s Office. Numerous attempts to get Mr. Jones to exit his vehicle were made but he refused and provoked law enforcement. Highway 92 in and out of Hotchkiss was closed down for approximately three hours. Vehicles were diverted away from

On June 21, the Hotchkiss Marshal’s Office responded to an address in Hotchkiss for a report of a domestic disturbance. When officers arrived they learned the male suspect, identified as Jimmy Jones, age 33, had left the scene. Hotchkiss officers sent out an attempt to locate Jones and the vehicle in which he was last seen, a white 1995 Jeep Cherokee. At approximately 4:21 p.m., a Colorado State Patrol trooper observed the white Jeep broken down on the side of the road on Highway 92 approximately one mile outside of Hotchkiss. As the trooper stopped to contact Jones, he barricaded himself in the vehicle. Photo submitted The Hotchkiss Marshal’s Office learned Jones has The Montrose County Sheriff’s Ofﬁce supplied an a lengthy criminal his- armored vehicle to assist with a potentially volatile tory including violence situation on Highway 92 outside of Hotchkiss.

the highway until the situation was over. The Montrose County Sheriff ’s Office Special Response Team (SRT) was requested to respond and assist with this potentially volatile situation. Montrose County responded with the SRT bearcat, an armored vehicle utilized by the SRT team to enable the team to approach dangerous

Patriotic concert planned

situations and limiting the exposure to the team. After several failed attempts to verbally request Jones to exit the vehicle, the SRT team introduced CS gas through a broken rear window. After a short time of exposure to the CS gas Jones exited his vehicle and was arrested without injury. At approximately 8:20 p.m. Highway 92 was reopened and Jones was transported to the Delta County Jail on numerous criminal charges.

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.

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Photo by Pat Sunderland

Maps, ﬁrewood permits and information for accessing the public lands surrounding Delta are being housed at Fort Uncompahgre during renovation of the GMUG forest headquarters south of Delta.

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� Photo by Pat Sunderland

This piece of metal art pays tribute to the early visitors to the trading post established by Antoine Robidoux in the late 1820s.

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FROM PAGE A1 “Chris is a visionary with boundless energy,” said IAWC board president Jody Kliska, one of the guest speakers at the open house. Delta County Commissioner Doug Atchley spoke about the importance of the original trading post to those traveling the Old Spanish Trail. He also reiterated the commissioners’ commitment to multiple uses of public lands. Also speaking were Ron Austin, Delta mayor; David Torgler, Delta city manager; and Wilma Erven, director of parks, recreation and culture for the City of Delta. Kathy See, Uncompahgre Plateau native plant coordinator, was not able to attend but her efforts to establish a native plant/xeriscape pollinating garden at the fort were recognized. Metal silhouettes of an early frontiersman and his pack train were also recently installed at the fort. “We are looking at Phase II of the native plant garden, so stay tuned,” Miller advised. Fort Uncompahgre — and the visitor center — are open Monday to Saturday 8 to 5.

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A4 Wednesday, June 27, 2018

ACCENT

BIRTHS Juan and Elvia Barajas of Cedaredge are the parents of a son, Javier Adrian Barajas Roman, born June 17, 2018, at Delta County Memorial Hospital. He

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Senior CommUnity meals for July

Senior CommUnity weighed 7 pounds, 13.2 meals are served at four ounces and was 20.5 dining sites in Delta inches in length. County — Cedaredge Civic Center (Tuesday, Corey Davis and Shel- Wednesday, Thursday), by Puckett of Delta are Delta Senior Center (Monthe parents of a daugh- day, Wednesday, Friday), ter, Devyn Sno Davis, Hotchkiss Senior Center born June 17, 2018, at (Monday, Wednesday, FriDelta County Memorial day) and Paonia Senior Hospital. She weighed 7 Citizen Center (Monpounds, 1 ounce and was day, Wednesday, Friday). 19 inches in length. Meals on Wheels are also delivered from each locaAbigail Conley is the tion. More information parent of a daughter, is available by calling Zoey Starr Conley, the Cedaredge meal site, born at 9:10 a.m. June 856-3636; the Delta meal 17, 2018, at Montrose site, 874-5302; Hotchkiss Memorial Hospital. She Senior Center, 872-3494; weighed 6 pounds, 1 and Paonia Senior Citiounce and was 19 inches zen Center, 527-3435. in length. The menu through

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Delta County Independent

Summer dance classes to begin

July 31 follows: Monday, July 2 — Barbecue chicken on whole wheat bun, macaroni and cheese, crunchy garden coleslaw, confetti peas and fruited gelatin. Tuesday, July 3 — Oven-fried chicken breast, mashed potatoes and gravy, baked beans, tossed salad, wheat roll and tropical fruit mix. Wednesday, July 4 — Independence Day. Meal sites closed for the holiday. Thursday, July 5 — Potato-crusted cod, oven-browned potatoes, fiesta blend vegetables, coleslaw, whole wheat roll and ambrosia fruit dessert. Friday, July 6 — Spaghetti with meat sauce, Italian vegetable blend, spring mix salad, French bread and pineapple chunks. Monday, July 9 — Stuffed green peppers, peas and carrots, tossed salad, wheat roll and cherry crisp. Tuesday, July 10 — Chicken taco salad with tortilla chips and sour cream, black bean salad, mandarin oranges and vanilla ice cream. Wednesday, July 11 — Roast turkey, mashed

Get moving this summer with summer dance classes at Bill Heddles Recreation Center. Classes will be held July 926 and will include preschool, jazz/hip-hop and ballet/contemporary. No previous dance experience is necessary. For a complete schedule, call Linda Dysart at 250-7834 or Bill Heddles Recreation Center at 874-0923. Classes are $36 and you must register in advance. RegistraDelta County Women’s tion forms are available Connection (DCWC) is at the front desk. excited to host its July 12 event for the women of Delta and surrounding areas from 5:30 to 7 p.m. at the Delta Christian Church. This month DCWC presents Celebrate America. Feel free The Delta Hubwheel- to wear your red, white, ers Square Dance Club and blue attire! Focusing on providwill host a regular dance ing a quick retreat from Saturday, July 7, from 7the hustle and bustle of 9 p.m., at Bill Heddles Recreation Center, 531 the everyday, the DCWC N. Palmer Street, Delta. event is a great place to Richard Berry is the unwind, laugh, learn, share, and re-charge in guest caller. The second dance of the company of other the month is July 21, and women. Because this is will be preceded by a pot- a catered event, reservations are appreciated. luck at 6 p.m. Delta Hub Wheelers dance on the first and third Saturdays of each month. Dances are Mainstream with Plus tips and run from 7 to 9 p.m. Club The members of Lee caller is Naaman Moorehouse of Grand Junction. Marts Veterans of ForFor more information, eign Wars Post 3571 and call 835-3771 or 835- its auxiliary invite all veterans and their fami8666.

potatoes and gravy, green beans, kidney bean salad, wheat roll and cake. Thursday, July 12 — Beef tips over white rice, kidney bean and cheese salad, carrots, whole wheat roll, strawberries and whipped cream. Friday, July 13 — Cheeseburger with lettuce, tomato and onion, baked potato wedges, cauliflower, three-bean salad and watermelon. Monday, July 16 — Paprika chicken, brown rice with mushroom gravy, orange-glazed carrots, pickled beets and tropical fruit mix. Tuesday, July 17 — Hot turkey sandwich, mashed potatoes and gravy, threebean salad, chateau blend vegetables and peach cobbler. Wednesday, July 18 — Pepperoni and beef pizza, tomato cucumber salad, island mix vegetables and grapes. Thursday, July 19 — Roast beef, sweet potatoes with apples, pickled beet and onion salad, green beans, wheat roll and applesauce cake. Friday, July 20 — Beef and rice burrito, lettuce, tomato and onion, refried beans, Mandarin spinach salad and a muffin.

Monday, July 23 — Meat loaf, Parmesan garlic potatoes, green beans, tossed salad, half an orange and apple crisp. Tuesday, July 24 — Barbecue chicken on a whole wheat bun, lettuce, tomato and onion, cucumber and grape salad, potato salad and banana. Wednesday, July 25 — Fettuccine alfredo with chicken breast, broccoli, spring mix salad, garlic French bread and orange sherbet. Thursday, July 26 — Spaghetti with meat sauce, Italian blend vegetables, tossed salad, garlic butter roll, peaches and pears. Friday, July 27 — Barbecue beef sandwich, potato salad, coleslaw, baked beans and mixed fruit cup. Monday, July 30 — Chicken breast with mushroom sauce, brown rice, tomato cucumber salad, California blend vegetables, wheat roll and grapes. Tuesday, July 31 — Liver and onions or beef patty with carrot and onion gravy, mashed potatoes, carrots, tossed salad and honey fruit dessert.

Delta County Women’s Connection celebrates America

Hubwheelers plan two July dances

Reservations for children will be needed as well, and moms are asked to bring a sack dinner for each child. This month’s guest speaker Robin Reese speaks about how to be secure in an insecure world, and her life in Africa as the wife of a corporate executive. The $12 cover charge includes all of the above plus a dinner catered by Daveto’s. Please RSVP by July 9 by phone to Cindy at 970-921-5412, email to dcwcreservations@gmail. com, text to 919-7958968, or visit the events link on DCWC’s Facebook page and reserve on

the event. Founded in 2008, DCWC provides a safe, caring environment where Delta County women of all ages and backgrounds can come together for a good meal and some girl time. DCWC meets every other month for a catered dinner, live entertainment, friendly conversation, a fun activity, door prizes, and a wonderful inspirational speaker. Free child care is always provided. Delta County Women’s Connection is an outreach of Stonecroft. Find and like DCWC’s Facebook page to keep current on events.

Veterans of Foreign Wars to host Welcome Home Veterans picnic lies to a Welcome Home Veterans picnic, Monday July 2, at 6 p.m. at the Delta First Baptist Church pavilion, 1250 Pioneer Road in Delta. VFW 3571 and its auxiliary proudly want to thank all veterans, and their families, for their service to the United States of America. One way to do this is to take them out to dinner. Members will be grilling hamburgers, bratwurst, and hot dogs and there is always a great selection of “go with its” available. All veterans and their families are encouraged to come, eat, and fellow-

ship with other veterans and their family members. Come and enjoy the VFW’s small token of gratitude for a huge “Thank you for your service” to all those, and their families, who served their country. All Army, Navy, Marine, Air Force and Coast Guard veterans of all ages, all those who served anywhere, anyplace are welcome. Bring your families and your appetites and join together for food and fun. For more information, call Post Commander Louis “Corky” Ware or Auxiliary President Della Ware at 872-3327.

Singers sought for 4th of July event 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 previously sung in a choir. Several rehearsals are scheduled — June 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.

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 sub-surface. All tying experience levels welcome.

LOCAL NEWS

Delta County Independent

Wednesday, June 27, 2018

Chism obtains patent for his mice-catching invention BY PAT SUNDERLAND Managing Editor

With perseverance and professional assistance, Delta inventor Gary Chism has obtained a patent for his adaptation of a mouse trap.

Like many great inventions, “The Trap” was designed to solve a very real problem. At Chism’s rural home, mice were getting into his shop. When he tried mouse bait, he wound up poi-

The Trap

soning a skunk that then died in his shop, leaving a foul odor. He then invested in a number of wood traps, but they quit working after catching one mouse. “The mice were overtaking me so I came up with this idea,” he said. “The original was very crude, but the first night I caught five or six, and the following night I caught four or five.” The concept is very simple, he explains. The mousetrap is positioned over a five-gallon bucket which is filled with water (if you plan to kill the mouse) or soft material such as kitty litter (if you plan to relocate the mouse). The plastic mousetrap is placed over the bucket — but first you coat the barrel with peanut butter to lure the mouse in.

Managing Editor

As Gary Chism discovered during the five-yearlong process of obtaining a patent for his invention, it takes time, money and perseverance to get an idea to the marketplace (see story above). “This will cost money! Be prepared to invest in yourself,” said Rita Crompton, The Inventor Lady. Recently, Crompton and Ray Burrasca, a crowdfunding expert, led an Inventor Bootcamp hosted by ENGAGE, Small Business Development Center and The Inventors Roundtable™. Inventors and product developers learned how to develop, protect and market their inventions.

Photo by Pat Sunderland

Rita Crompton, aka The Inventor Lady, offered practical advice to inventors and product developers at a bootcamp hosted by ENGAGE. Ray Burrasca, a crowdfunding expert, discussed funding options.

They also learned about funding options and how to successfully launch a product into the marketplace. “Don’t spend a dime before it’s time,” Crompton and Burrasca repeatedly stressed. The first step is market research; the next is conducting your own initial search for patents that may already be in place for similar concepts. Your time is the biggest investment here. If you need a prototype of your idea, look around the house for cheap materials, like cardboard and duct tape. When it’s time to launch a professional patent search, employ a registered patent attorney. A licensed engineer may be needed to put your concept on paper. These steps also require some research, to locate professionals who will provide value for their fees. “There are a lot of predators out there,” would-be inventors were cautioned. If, in the end, inventors decide their idea is not much more than a hobby to be marketed locally at craft fairs, that’s fine too. Online marketing is another option. Inventors who are ready to either license or take orders from retailers were encouraged to target industry trade shows appropriate to their product. Crompton recent-

chased The Trap before the design modification is urged to contact Chism by email at thetrap2015 oct@gmail.com. If you’ve been unable to fix the problem, he’ll be happy to help. Since he began pursuing his patent, Chism says he’s seen knock-offs on the internet, but it doesn’t appear they would be as effective. Because ideas can be stolen so easily, Chism cautions

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ly returned from the National Hardware Show in Las Vegas, where she showcased 25 inventors/ products, many of which she brought to Delta. “Determine your ultimate goal,” she said. Then take the steps necessary to achieve that goal, from securing internet domain names to determining how best to package your product. The consumer will help set the price, she added.

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other inventors to work only with individuals they can trust. He’s now working up to mass production and has lined up an investor who’s willing to fund production if he can obtain large orders. In the meantime, Chism has located an Eckert firm to produce small quantities of The Trap, which is being sold locally at Delta Hardware, Sisson Feed and The Hungry Lion.

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Inventors’ bootcamp helps ideas come to fruition BY PAT SUNDERLAND

Chism’s mouse traps are more expensive than many alternatives, but they never wear out. They are low maintenance -— no chemicals, no resetting and no messy cleanup. Chism says they’re also safe, silent and reliable. The trap cleans up easily with soap and water. The original concept has been modified to address a design flaw that let the roller slip out. Anyone who pur-

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Best of show

“Late Summer” by Joe Milich earned top honors from judge Arleta Pech at the Delta Fine Arts’ annual show and sale June 22-24 at Bill Heddles Recreation Center.

PEOPLE IN THE NEWS Emily Huene was named to the Provost’s List and Jacob Huene and Michael Huene were named to the President’s List at Oral Roberts University for the spring 2018 semester. To be named to the Provost’s List, students must carry at least 12 credits in a semester and attain a grade-point average of 3.500 or better with no grade below “C”. To be named to the President’s List, students must attain a grade point average of 4.000.

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LOCAL NEWS

Delta County Independent

Food entrepreneurs go from recipes to revenues at ENGAGE workshop BY EMY LYNN ROQUE CISNEROS ers with people wanting Faegre Baker Daniels, Farms and Farm RunContributing Writer

June 21 kicked off a workshop for food entrepreneurs titled “From Recipe to Revenues.” Over 40 people gathered at Memorial Hall in Hotchkiss in hopes to learn from experts in the food industry from across Colorado. The workshops mostly consisted of presentations from field experts, with plenty of time for questioning and answers. Thursday’s schedule started with a 12:30 p.m. meet and greet pizza lunch followed by welcoming remarks from the organizers — ENGAGE Delta, Startup Colorado, Naturally Boulder and OEDIT. Shawn Gardner, the director of economic initiatives with ENGAGE, shared how they started with the mission to help boost and diversify the economy within Delta County through entrepreneurship. This workshop is one of many initiatives, which are mostly funded through a federal grant and various partners. “We’re working to create and leverage the resources and relationships needed for entrepreneurship and innovation to thrive in Delta County,” said Gardner. This workshop was spread out over two halfdays due to many of the presenters having to travel from the Denver area. “Everything fell together for these mentors to come out here and share their knowledge so we took advantage of it,” said Barry Pennell, ENGAGE agriculture coordinator. “It’s hard to find an ideal time for everyone, but we got a great turnout.” Pennell told the audience it’s part of ENGAGE’s mission to connect farm-

to start value-added and foodcentric business. He highlighted the large community kitchen in Paonia which is available free for entrepreneur use, along with several other smaller commercial kitchens available throughout Delta County. “We really want to help alleviate that higher risk of equipment investment when starting a business and create a leaner startup model for people,” he said. Some of the commercial equipment was available for viewing at the workshop. Following the overview of the day from Bill Capsalis with Naturally Boulder, Mark Retzloff from New Hope gave a presentation on the state of the food industry. He started in 1969 with the desire to create healthy accessible food. Since then the industry has revolutionized completely. He said, “The one thing that’s stayed the same is that people have vision, dream and purpose.” He encouraged the audience by sharing his goals and keys to success. Cell phones snapped photos of slides illustrating what characteristics to look for when building a team. Jeni Lam Rogers Daniels, an attorney from

then gave a presentation on the legalities with food entrepreneurship such as FISMA and labeling. Her expertise was evident in her responses to the many questions asked by participants. “You can be doing everything by the books and still be sued,” she warned. She emphasized the importance of food safety and following proper steps to stay within FDA guidelines. The Thursday afternoon session continued with another presentation from Dale Kamibayashi with Presence Marketing on working with brokers, retailers and distributors. Afterwards a highly anticipated roundtable discussion consisted of 10-minute rotations with the various guests from the Front Range. The group finished the evening with a 5:30 p.m. cocktail reception and dinner at Shadescapes where attendees got to meet other fellow food entrepreneurs both beginner and experienced. Friday’s workshop started with branding expert Kristine Carey instructing how to build a food brand and market products. Next, local experts from firms such as Big B’s Cider, Ela Family

ners were featured in a panel discussion. Hotchkiss local William Benjamin came to the workshop in hopes of gaining guidance on his entrepreneurship journey. “I’m here to take notes and see what I can apply towards my business,” he said. Benjamin returned to his hometown after reading that Colorado is best for food retail, and chose Delta County because of its abundant organic agriculture. “I’m definitely learning a lot,” he said. To conclude the presentations Julie Nirvelli shared lessons learned from her entrepreneurship journey, using her business, White Girl Salsa, as a startup case study. Capsalis wrapped up with a final question and answer session before dismissing the crowd. This workshop was free for attendees with food and refreshments provided from local restaurants and entrepreneurs such as Woodfire Pizza, Citizen Raw!, Big B’s Juice and Mountain Oven. The next ENGAGE event will be in September with an energy conference in Paonia during September. More details can be found online at engagedeltacounty.org.

Photo by Emy Lynn Roque Cisneros

The state of the food industry has changed, said Mark Retzloff, but the people’s visions have remained the same.

Seniors, disabled vets may qualify for property tax exemptions The Colorado Constitution established a property tax exemption for senior citizens and disabled veterans. For those who qualify, 50 percent of the first $200,000 in actual value of the primary residence is exempted from property tax. The State of Colorado pays the property taxes on the exempted value. Qualifying seniors are urged to submit applications if they have not yet done so. Taxpayers 65 years and older as of Jan. 1, who have owned and occupied the property as their primary residence for at least 10 consecutive years may qualify for the senior exemption. To apply, you must complete the appropriate application form and return it to the assessor by July 16. For an application form or a brochure that explains the

senior citizen exemption in greater detail, call the Delta County assessor’s office at 874-2120. In 2006, the senior property tax exemption was expanded to include “qualifying disabled veterans.” A disabled veteran exemption is available to those applicants who sustained a service-connected disability while serving on active duty in the armed forces of the United States, were honorably discharged, and were rated by the United States Department of Veterans Affairs as one hundred percent “permanent and total” disabled. The applicant must have owned and occupied the home as his or her primary residence since Jan. 1 of the year of application; however, limited exceptions to the ownership and occupant

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requirements are detailed in the eligibility requirements section of the application. Owners of multiple residences may only designate one property as their primary residence. The application deadline is July 1. For an application form or a brochure that explains the disabled veteran exemption in greater detail, call the Delta County assessor’s office at 874-2120.

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

SCHOOL

Delta County Independent

Wednesday, June 27, 2018

Nature Connection kicks off summer camps BY EMY LYNN ROQUE CISNEROS grams and was excited ton were hired to help menting that he liked beginner and interme- youth and the commu-

Williams manage the students and organize the growing gear library. With the grant, new equipment such as paddleboards, archery, and fishing gear are available for students to use. The first session of “Water Connections” proved successful with 12 students. Twice that number are already registered for the next session in July. Fifth grader Shiloh and her second grade brother Canyon Warthen travelled all the way from Montrose for the four-day excursion. Her parents heard about it from a friend and Shiloh became instantly excited at the idea. The first day students spent learning — about each other, water, fishing, and water sports. The next day they took their skills to practice by fishing at Crawford Reservoir and doing water sports such as kayaking, canoeing and paddleboarding. “My favorite was the paddleboarding,” said Shiloh. “We had to work Nature Connection photo together and even if These students loved learning and playing in the we fell off we still had water during The Nature Connection’s ﬁrst summer fun.” Her brother nodded enthusiastically comcamp. Contributing Writer

When temperatures reach 90 degrees and summer boredom sets in, summer camp is the ultimate getaway for youth. Thanks to Great Outdoor Colorado funding, this year The Nature Connection is making summer programming a reality for Delta County. “We like to promote the idea of ‘best backyard in the world,’” said Priscilla Williams, program director. She’s worked with The Nature Connection for three winter pro-

to help expand the organization’s outdoor education programming. This summer’s set of activities include two sessions of “Water Connections” for third-fifth graders, two sessions of “Camp Connections” for sixth-eighth graders, and two backpacking trips — one for middle school girls and the other for high school students. Each session lasts four days, with the backpacking trips being overnight. Pathways interns Cara Littlefield and Eli Strat-

“going fast” on the paddleboards. On Wednesday they visited Thistle Whistle Farm and taste tested various plants — including one that turns the tongue numb. Several students commented excitedly on the experience saying it was “weird, but cool.” Their last day, with a high temperature of 98, had them cooling off and collecting creatures at the Gunnison River and swimming in the North Fork pool. “Watching how much fun they’re having while learning new things brings me joy,” said intern Littlefield. She thinks The Nature Connection’s work is invaluable with the current trend for youth to stay indoors rather than explore outdoors. “You don’t see kids doing this anymore,” she said while pointing to the students collecting water skippers and skipping rocks on the riverbank. The Nature Connection is also working on several other projects to promote outdoor education, including a multiuse trail and a pump track. The track will be particularly useful for

diate mountain biking, though it’s useable with any bike. This track is now open for use, though it’s still a work in progress. Williams explained that this type of track will be useful for students to learn bike handling skills because the idea is to use momentum around the track and not pedaling. “Our goal is to inspire

nity to connect with the outdoors in a variety of ways,” said Williams. More information on The Nature Connection’s upcoming programs, registration and available scholarships can be found on its website at www.thenatureconnec tion.net or by stopping by its headquarters at 397 Bulldog Street in Hotchkiss.

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Nature Connection photo

With ﬁshing poles in hand, summer campers hike to the shore of Crawford Reservoir.

GMUG welcomes new deputy forest supervisor The Grand Mesa, Uncompahgre and Gunnison (GMUG) National Forests welcome the arrival of Chad Stewart as the new deputy forest supervisor. Stewart reported to the GMUG on May 13, replacing Russ Bacon who left to assume the role of forest supervisor of the Medicine BowRoutt National Forest. “I look forward to working with the diverse communities and issues that are part of the GMUG National Forests,” said Stewart. “I am also excited to explore the local area and everything it has to offer.”

Chad Stewart

Stewart is transferring to the GMUG from the Medicine Bow-Routt National Forest where he served as the Hahns Peak/Bears Ears district ranger in Steamboat Springs since 2013. He has over 20 years of experience in public land management starting as a seasonal wildland firefighter and moving on to become a hotshot, fire ecologist, fire management officer and timber and fire staff officer.

He holds several degrees including a B.S. in biology from the University of Oregon, an M.S. in forest ecology from the University of Minnesota, and a master’s of business administration from Touro University. Stewart is moving to the GMUG with his wife Amy, their daughter Kacy and son Dathan. Their family pursuits include camping, geocaching, biking, skiing, fishing and travelling.

Libraries launch scavenger hunts The five libraries in Delta County are offering musical scavenger hunts for all ages in July. Participants can visit their local library to pick up the first clue and then embark on a scavenger hunt to locate the remaining clues within the community. All scavenger hunts will

have a musical theme. Cedaredge Library’s hunt runs July 3-7, Crawford Library’s July 11-14, Delta Library’s July 2-7, Hotchkiss Library’s July 2-5, and Paonia Library’s July 3-7. Call your local library for more information or visit the online events calendar at delta libraries.org.

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LOCAL NEWS

Delta County Independent

Delta Housing Authority has funding for home repairs

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The Delta Housing Authority (DHA) has received funding from the Colorado Division of Housing for its housing rehabilitation program in Delta County. The program provides assistance to low and middle income households for necessary home improvements. The program enables homeowners who may not be able to borrow from banks due to low income or credit problems. Eligible borrowers include those on a fixed income such as the elderly or disabled as well as low income individuals and families. The loan payments are based on what the borrower can afford. Technical assistance is provided free of charge. This assistance includes, construction management services such as project design, help finding qualified contractors, and performing construction inspections authorizing work progress payments. The intent is to make sure the homeowner gets the best quality work for a fair price. Typical work includes

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structural repairs such as foundation, frame, roof, health and safety concerns related to electrical, plumbing and heating. Other issues that are addressed include energy conservation accessibility modifications. Cosmetic upgrades may also be allowed as part of a typical rehabilitation if they do not constitute a major percentage of the work. For more information contact the Delta Housing Authority, 511 East 10th in Delta, 874-7266, ext. 3.

Law enforcement blotter From the Delta Police burning an area of grass on Department (edited for the property. Officers responded to the length): 300 block of Columbia Street for the report of a structure June 17: Justin C. Brown, 35, of fire. Officers responded to the Delta was arrested and jailed on an active warrant with a 100 block of West 2nd Street for a traffic accident. James no bond. Officers responded to M. DeBourgh, 64 of Fort ColWest 3rd Street and Palmer lins was issued a summons Street for a non-injury traffic for crossing other than a crosswalk. accident. Officers responded to the June 21: Officers responded to an 1500 block of Guadalupe Street on a report of a drunk address on H25 Road for a driver running into a garage report of a possible domestic door. Lisa A. Mack, 50, of violence. Officers responded to Delta was arrested and jailed on charges of driving under Highway 50 and 1565 Road the influence, careless driv- for a two-vehicle traffic acciing without injury, duty upon dent. Yamila L. Dixon, 25, of striking unattended vehicle Delta was issued a citation or other property, duty to for following too closely. Officers responded the report accidents, and drove while cancelled/denied-judg- intersection of East 7th Street and Leon Street for a single ment default. car accident. June 18: Officers responded to Officers responded to 7110 Highway 50 for a 911 Urgent Care for a report of a dog bite. hang-up call. Summer M. Adcock, 24, Officers responded to the 200 block of Main Street, for of Paonia was issued a suma report of a traffic accident. mons for assault in the third degree. June 19: Officers responded June 22: Jennifer M. Barnett, 24, of to Safeway for a report of Delta was arrested and jailed fraud. Jose A. Naranjo-Romero, on charges of violation of a 31, of Delta was arrested and protection order. Officers responded to the jailed on charges of child abuse, assault in the third 100 block of east 4th Street degree, harassment and for a traffic accident. Both obstruction of telephone ser- vehicles were towed from the vice as an act of domestic scene. Officers took a lobby violence. Jennifer Gallegos was report of a theft that occurred arrested and jailed on a in the 700 block of Meeker Montrose County warrant Street. Kellan E. Hoyt, 30, of Delta with a bond of $50. Officers responded to was arrested and jailed on Walmart for a report of an charges of assault in the third uncooperative female. Alisha degree, protection order N. Jackson, 34, of Montrose violation x3, unlawful poswas issued a summons on session of a controlled substance (methamphetamine) charges of shoplifting. Officers responded and unlawful possession of to Walmart for a report of a controlled substance (diazan uncooperative female. epam) as an act of domestic Amanda L. Gwaltney, 33, of violence. Joseph M. Olea, 41, of Montrose was issued a summons on charges of shoplift- Eckert was issued a summons for third degree assault. ing. James C. Hollis Jr. 35, of June 20: Officers who were per- Delta was arrested and jailed forming door checks on Main on a warrant with a bond of Street made contact with a $300. James C. Hollis Jr. 35, of male, Joseph J. Pacheco, 20, of Montrose. He was arrest- Delta was arrested and jailed ed and jailed on a Montrose on charges of criminal imperCounty warrant with a bond sonation. Officers responded to the of $1,500. Officers responded to the area of East 5th Street and B 1500 block of Bluff Street for Street on a report of an auto the report of a cigarette butt pedestrian accident with injuries. Ramiro Ortega-Pena, 26, of Delta was arrested and jailed on charges of vehicular assault, DUI, careless driving with injury, failed to remain at scene, failed to report accident, drove while cancelled/ deny and reckless endangerment. Jesus J. Banuelos, 38, of Montrose was arrested and jailed on a warrant out of San Miguel County with a bond of $5,000. June 23: Officers responded to 1429 Highway 50 for a vehicle theft report. Officers received a phone call regarding a possible 16year-old female juvenile runaway. Officers responded to Delta County Memorial Hospital for a report of a dog bite. Christine I. Clark, 18, of Cedaredge was arrested and jailed on charges of second degree burglary and criminal mischief. Elizabeth M. Comfort, 20, of Eckert was arrested and jailed on charges of second degree burglary and criminal mischief. Logan D. Goodrich, 18, of Delta was arrested and jailed on charges of second degree burglary and criminal mischief. Elliot A. Hanson, 20, of Eckert was arrested and jailed on charges of second degree burglary and criminal mischief. Officers responded to the area of West 3rd Street and Palmer for a report of three males assaulting another male. Khyrsten M. Springer, 27, of Delta was arrested and jailed on two warrants with a bond of $800. Lindsay A. Moody, 26, of Hotchkiss was arrested and jailed on a warrant with a bond of $300. Officers were on routine patrol in the area of 1410 Valley View Drive when they arrested and jailed Joshua L. Husa, 27, homeless, on a warrant with a bond of $2,300. Citations: Fifteen tickets were issued this week for various traffic violations. Please remember: All criminal charges are merely

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an accusation and the defendant is presumed innocent until or unless proven guilty. From the Delta County Sheriff’s Office (partial list): June 18: Deputies were dispatched to a home on 1550 Road, Delta, for a protection order violation. A Cedaredge man reported he was harassed by another camper near the Green Mountain Trail on Grand Mesa. He alleges the male camper accused him of parking in his campsite, then shot off his gun a few times. A Cedaredge area man reported an unknown female came out of the bushes near his residence on Happy Hollow Road at about 10:30 p.m. and began throwing rocks at his house. At least one window was broken. June 19: A car driven by James Ladou, 45, of Clifton struck and killed a bear on Highway 50 west of Delta at about 1:45 a.m. The driver was not injured. June 20: William Dransfield, 51, of Crawford was issued a summons for violating the fire ban after deputies determined he had been burning rubber off copper wire outside his home on Bone Mesa Road. Paonia fireighters responded to the area at about 5 a.m. At about 7:30 a.m., a fourvehicle accident was reported on Highway 133, milemarker 14, west of Paonia. According to the Colorado State Patrol, a 1993 Subaru was behind a 1991 Jeep, which was behind a 2002 Chrysler, all waiting/ stopped for a construction zone flagger, when a 2003 Ford pickup failed to stop and hit the rear of the Subaru, which then was pushed into the Jeep, and the Jeep into the Chrysler. The 54-year-old male driver of the Subaru was flown to Grand Junction with what was determined to be moderate injuries; the other drivers sustained minor or no injuries. The driver of the pickup, David Stokes, 61 of Crawford was issued a citation for careless driving causing injury. No drugs/alcohol are suspected. Deputies responded to a dispute between two brothers on Stingley Gulch Road, Hotchkiss, that allegedly involved a gun. They were unable to establish probable cause for an arrest and the two parties were separated for the night. June 21: The sheriff’s office received a complaint about aggressive dogs on L75 Road near Paonia. Timothy Staroba, 47, of Broomfield was struck while riding his motorcycle on Highway 133 near Bethlehem Road, on the outskirts of Paonia. According to the Colorado State Patrol, Staroba was eastbound on Highway 133 when he lost control of his 2018 Harley-Davidson motorcycle. He laid the bike down and became separated from the bike, which hit the front of a 2002 Toyota Tundra driven by Don Gates, 57. Gates was not injured; Staroba sustained serious injuries. Neither alcohol nor drugs are considered a factor in the crash, although it’s believed that Staroba may have been hit by a bird just before the accident occurred. June 22: Deputies responded to Delta County Memorial Hospital on a report of a dog bite. June 23: A Delta area resident reported about $130 of diesel fuel had been drained from a truck parked on Solar Court. He identified as a possible suspect an individual who was visiting homes in the area trying to sell a generator. Deputies assisted the Cedaredge Police Department with a traffic accident at 110 SE Frontier Avenue. Marvin Sreaves, 84, of Cedaredge was transported to DCMH. A violation of the burn ban was reported at a residence on B Road, Delta. An Austin man reported the theft of six bales of hay. June 24: A Hotchkiss area resident reported that his duck house had been upended and one of his ducks had been shot. At about noon, Delta firefighters extinguished a wildfire burning trees near the intersection of Trap Club and Fairview roads. The cause has not been determined.

LOCAL NEWS

Delta County Independent

Wednesday, June 27, 2018

Celebrating a Rock Steady birthday BY DON BENJAMIN Staff Writer

People with Parkinson’s disease experience a wide variety of symptoms and, although the illness is progressive and irreversible, there are choices. Medication helps but so does attitude. Some patients take their pills and hope for the best. Some people fight. It’s been a year since Charlie Farrell and his wife Jan Blue embarked on their personal mission to serve Parkinson’s patients. Twice a week their enterprise, Rock Steady Boxing - Western Slope Colorado, helps a growing number of fighters maintain and improve their balance, agility, and strength through noncontact boxing drills and exercise. Keeping active is important. Charlie ought to know. He has Parkinson’s. It was 2013 when Charlie was diagnosed. He and Jan had both retired from the U.S. Air Force and they were looking forward to a life of leisure and purposeful activity when those plans took a detour. “This disease is not for the faint of heart,” Charlie said, “It’s taught me patience, perseverance, and humility. But the people I’ve met and those I’ve helped make it all worthwhile.” “The camaraderie and friendships that develop among our fighters is unbelievable,” Jan added, “We are constantly surprised how thankful people are not only for our program but for the support they gain from working with others.” It’s been a busy year. There are three Parkinson’s support groups in the region — one in Cedaredge, one in Montrose, and one in Grand Junction. Between the support groups and physician referrals, the couple now has twenty fighters on their roster. An average session involves between eight and twelve participants. Fighters meet twice a week in Delta at Anytime Fitness, 300 Stafford Lane. The group begins with stretching followed by high intensity non-contact exercise tailored to each person’s needs and abilities. This is where the challenge begins. Some participants can work-out without assistance; some need help from a ‘corner person.’ Each session ends with a sharing activity. There is no cost to the participants but each person pays a gym membership of $36 per month to use the facilities at Anytime Fitness. The membership allows them to use the gym 24/7 for additional workouts. Dawn Anderson, who manages Anytime Fitness, is thrilled to partner with the Rock Steady program. “This group inspires the entire club,” she said, “Rock Steady Boxing has changed a lot of lives. It’s neat to see the group so engaged and happy.” Happy? Well, yes, the fighters definitely enjoy themselves. While Dawn was describing her experience with the program, the boxers were joyously exercising and shouting and whooping in the background. During

PEOPLE IN THE NEWS Johnathan Grasmick of Delta, a senior majoring in chemical engineering, was named to the spring 2018 honor list at Missouri University of Science and Technology. To be included on the honor list, students must have carried a minimum of 12 hours and had grade point averages of 3.2 or above out of a possible 4.0.

a break, a few fighters shared their stories. Connie Tollefson of Orchard City has been with Rock Steady Boxing for a year and she beamed when asked about her participation. “I’m grateful because I’m not an exercise person but I know I’m stronger now. This program gives me confidence and it’s helped my attitude. It’s a great emotional support to workout with these people. I didn’t know anyone before, now I consider them close friends.” Her husband Gary serves as her corner man and he’s definitely noticed Connie’s changed attitude, a great improvement from the low point where things started. The couple recalls the moment three years ago when she was first diagnosed with Parkinson’s. “The doctor said ‘I can tell you exactly what’s wrong,’” said Connie, “and then he handed me a box of Kleenex.” Deann Thomas of Eckert is a volunteer with the program. She’s a retired physical therapist who has been impressed with Rock Steady. “I’ve treated Parkinson’s all of my career and studies show that this kind of focused intensive exercise slows the progression of the disease. It’s the most comprehensive overall workout I’ve ever been involved with. A typical physical therapy session is a half-hour. This is one-and-a-half hours of stretching, strength, and balance exercises and a great cardio workout.” She too has noticed positive effects on attitude. “This is not a clinical setting,” she said, “People here are less apprehensive, less guarded. It’s an atmosphere of fun and camaraderie.” Ed and Peggy Baxter of Cedaredge have been with the program from the beginning and they agree that the Rock Steady workout is intense but also rewarding. When Peggy was first diagnosed, the couple went to an information seminar and they were disheartened to see so many somber and debilitated people. “At Rock Steady Boxing,” said Peggy, “the people are happy to be here. It’s one of the most positive things I know to do with a disease that can be unforgiving. It’s inspirational to see others — including yourself — doing things you didn’t think possible. It’s good to see folks at different stages, all fighting rather than giving up.” Tom and Carolyn McKee of Grand Junction have been with Rock Steady from the first. Of Tom’s progress Carolyn said, “It gives him confidence. This is like one big family. We look around and see everyone exercising and feeling good.” Tom looks forward to coming and he’s noticed changes. “It gives me a reason to fight,” he said. Nick Hoppner of Montrose joined the Rock Steady Boxing program a few months ago. His wife Ginny is his corner person and avid supporter. “Parkinson’s can be a very lonely disease if you try and fight it all by yourself,” he said. “Here you’re surrounded by people at different levels all working together to approach the disease at our own level.” He noted that a physician who diagnoses Parkinson’s typically observes the condition and prescribes medications to reduce the symptoms leaving the patient with no ownership. “Exercise improves my mood and gives me ownership. I have Parkinson’s; Parkinson’s doesn’t have me. You can’t imagine what a triumph it is to have abilities restored that you thought were gone forever. It’s joyful to be at a point in life where I can recapture some of the joys of childhood and thumb my nose at my disease. I love to hit the bag.” What does the future

Photo by Don Benjamin

Rock Steady – Western Slope, a non-contact boxing-based exercise program that improves participant motor skills and inspires positive attitudes, has been working with Parkinson’s patients since June 2017. The enthusiastic crew of boxers and volunteer helpers include (front row, left to right) Jan Blue, Jan Hanson, Carolyn McKee, Glen Hansen, Connie Tollefson, Peggy Baxter, Nick Hoppner, and Gary Hanson; (back row) Dawn Anderson, Brenda Bower, Ed Baxter, Marsha Taylor, Tom McKee, Allen Logan, Deann Thomas, Larry Kelly, Nancy Eisenbud, Gary Tollefson, Bradley Callenius, and Charlie Farrell. hold for Rock Steady Boxing - Western Slope? Charlie and Jan want to continue recruiting new Parkinson’s fighters but to serve a larger population both agree that will require additional volunteers. Volunteers are needed to serve as “corner persons” to provide encouragement and help the fighters with exercises. The corner role is often filled by spouses but anyone with time and energy to give can help. Meanwhile, the current crew is stepping up to do more. Both Connie Tollefson and Deann Thomas are taking the online course to become Rock Steady Boxing coaches. Soon they’ll be able to help new recruits. The couple’s pro-

gram is an affiliate of the national Rock Steady Boxing, a non-profit organization with over six-hundred locations nationally and worldwide from Boston to Beijing. According to their website, Rock Steady Boxing is dedicated to giving hope to people with Parkinson’s disease by improving their quality of life through a non-contact boxing-based fitness curriculum. Both Charlie and Jan have attended Rock Steady training and are certified coaches. Anyone interested in joining the group as either a fighter or a volunteer helper can contact Charlie and Jan at 970399-7272 or visit their website: http://westernslope.rsbaffiliate.com/

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Verna Pottorff

Verna Rose Pottorff died June 24. 2018, at HopeWest Hospice Care Center in Grand Junction. She was 89. She was a legal secretary. Mrs. Pottorff is survived by her daughters, Lynn McIntyre of Arkansas, Catherine Sare of Grand Junction, Cheryl Huskey and Susan Link, both of Missouri; sister, Nancy Anderson of Grand Junction; and extended family. She was preceded in death by her husband, Gale Pottorff; and brother, Lloyd Covell Jr. Private services will be held at a later date. Memorial contributions may be made to HopeWest Hospice Care Center, 3090B N. 12th Street, Grand Junction, CO 81506. Callahan-Edfast Mortuary & Crematory handled the arrangements.

Raymond Rowland

Raymond G. Rowland of Leawood, Kan., died June 19, 2018. He was 102. He was born Feb. 6, 1916, to Edgar and Sadie (Manahan) Rowland in Peabody, Kan. He graduated from Pittsburg State University with a master’s degree in education. He was teacher, coach and principal at CCHS, Arma, Kan., and superintendent of schools in Elkhart, Kan. Upon retirement, Mr. Rowland and his wife managed a fruit orchard

OBITUARIES

in Hotchkiss. He was preceded in death by his wife of 72 years, Wilma Cvelbar; and grandson, Michael Ellis. He is survived by five children, Vernon of Blue Springs, Kan., Kathy of Leawood, Kan., Ron of Denver, Barry of Sherrills Ford, N.C., and Brian of Spring, Texas; and four grandchildren. Memorial donations can be made to the Hotchkiss Community United Methodist Church, 285 2nd St., Hotchkiss, CO 81419 or Alzheimer’s Association. Graveside services are pending.

eling, and stream fishing. She is survived by her husband of 67 years, Dave Dobbs; daughters, Sharon (Don) Boettcher of Lakewood, Davie Ann (Wes) Westlake of Aguanga, Calif., Brenda (Tom Argon) Mills of Westminster and Keturah (Mike) Larum; 14 grandchildren, 40 great-grandchildren, with one on the way; 5 great-great-grandchildren, with one on the way; and a sister, Bonnie Bridges. She was preceded in death by her parents and foster brother, Pug Kite. Services will be held July 7 at 2 p.m. at United Methodist Church of Paonia, with James Gall officiating. Memorial contributions may be made to HopeWest, PO Box 24, Delta, CO 81416.

Kitty Dobbs

Kitty Halene Dobbs died June 23, 2018, at her home in Paonia after a long battle with cancer. She was 85. Kitty Halene Holcomb was born Aug. 21, 1932, in Eddy, Okla., to Elmer and Keturah Holcomb. On Oct. 7, 1950, she married Dave Dobbs in Salem, Ark. In 1959, they moved to Golden where she worked for Montgomery Ward. They moved to Paonia in 1980 when Mr. Dobbs was appointed postmaster. Mrs. Dobbs was a lifelong member of the United Methodist Church; she dedicated 40 years to the youth and women’s groups of her church. She was also a member of the Red Hat club in Yuma, Ariz., where they made their winter home after retirement. Mrs. Dobbs enjoyed being a homemaker, trav-

Mildred Carver

Delta County resident Mildred “Millie” Eda Carver died June 23, 2018. She was 69. She is survived by her children, Shellie (Mike) Carver and Wanda Lowrance, all of Delta; sister, Melveta (Bob) Smith of Pagosa Springs; three brothers, C.W. (Coky) Ivey of Texas, and Dan and Dave Carver, both of Cedaredge; and one uncle, Jay (Merlene) McDermott of Cedaredge. She was preceded in death by her husband, Marlin Carver; and her parents. No services will be held at this time. Taylor Funeral Service

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Delta County Independent

and Crematory is han- officiate. Miriam Hartig Memorial contribudling the arrangements. Miriam Hartig died tions may be made to any Feb. 23, 2018. charity for children or A celebration of life animals. service will be held at Eckert Presbyterian Church at 10 a.m. July 10. A light lunch will be served.

Ruby Saenz

Judith Dixon

Judith “Judi” Anne Dixon died May 23, 2018, at St. Mary’s Hospital in Grand Junction. She was 74. Judith Anne Alt was born Feb. 17, 1944, in Baltimore, Md., to William Alt and Nancy Richardson. She spent her childhood and attended school in Towson, Md. She trained to be a radiology technician in Washington, D.C. She worked in Washington, D.C., San Francisco and Modesto, Calif., before settling in Delta in 1988. On April 20, 1990, she married Kenneth Dixon in Las Vegas, Nev. She enjoyed travelling, especially to Scotland, watching the Broncos, her German shepherds, quarterhorses and spending time with family. She is survived by her husband of 28 years, Kenneth Dixon. A celebration of life service will be held at the family home, 1781 G Road, Delta, at 10 a.m. July 7. Curtis Jones will

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 grandparents, Claudio and Manuelita Espinoza, who raised him. Rosary was Saturday, June 23, followed by Mass and a barbecue at Confluence Park.

Ruby Grace Saenz died June 18, 2018, in Grand Junction. She was 71. She was born in Del Norte April 24, 1947, to Ruben and Mary Duran. She spent her childhood in the San Luis Valley and moved to Delta, where she met her husband Francisco Saenz Sr. Mrs. Saenz enjoyed playing bingo, games, puzzles, poker, watching telenovelas and spending time with family. She is survived by four children, Bernadine, Bobby, Maria and Xavier aka Yolanda (Leslie) Saenz; 15 grandchildren; 19 great-grandchildren; siblings, Adolph (Rose), Bill (Dottie), Roger (Liz), Luben (Cindy), Alan, Albert (Leta), Jon, Ron (Michelle), Mike Duran and Sandy Diaz. She was preceded in death by her parents; two sisters, Mellody Duran, Frances Duran; two brothers, Glen Martinez and Leroy Sanchez; and four young siblings, Consuelo, Leroy, Baby Jesus and Baby Martinez; and her husband, Francisco Saenz Sr. Services were held June 26 at St. Michael’s.

Gary Lee Charles Dec. 21, 1945 ~ June 3, 2018 Gary Lee Charles was born on Dec. 21, 1945, in Waltham, Mass., to the late Randall and Lillian Charles. Gary was ushered into the arms of Jesus on June 3, 2018, surrounded by his loving family at his home in Kalispell, Mont., after battling cancer. Gary is survived by his wife of 42 years, Terry (Hull) Charles, a 1966 Delta High School graduate; two sons, Jason, his wife Rachel and grandson Gabriel and son Micah Charles, all of Kalispell, Mont.; his mother-inlaw, Virginia Hull of Delta; three brothers; and one sister. Gary was a math teacher and coach from 1973-2015. He loved teaching, his students and coaching. He retired from Valor Christian High School in Highlands Ranch, Colo., in

2015. After retirement Gary and Terry joined their sons in the beautiful Flathead Valley in Kalispell, Mont., on a little family farm. Gary will be missed by all, as he was a dedicated follower of Jesus Christ, a faithful husband, a wonderful father to his sons and a great friend to many. Memorial Celebration of the Life of Gary Lee Charles A memorial service

will be held at Canvas Church, 255 Summer Ridge, Kalispell, Mont., at 11 a.m. on July 7, 2018. Out-oftown guests can join us through the live stream at: CanvasChurch.com/ live-watch. In lieu of flowers, we invite you to make a contribution for a Memorial Bench to be placed next to Gary’s grandchildren’s sandbox that he built during his last days with us. Contributions may be sent to: The Charles Family Memorial Fund, PO Box 10548, Kalispell, MT 59904. The Charles Family would like to express our sincerest thanks and gratitude for your prayers and serving our family during this time of grief and loss. Paid obituary

Museum curator FROM PAGE A1 Laurie’s Native American heritage, so she asked her to help with a Smithsonian exhibit that would travel to eight different venues. The exhibit was about Native American quilts. “Not many people know, or knew, that quilts were traditionally made by Native American women.” Ecstatic of this opportunity, Laurie eagerly joined the team. She toured reservations in South Dakota, North Dakota, Montana, Utah, Wyoming and Colorado and then she commissioned quilts from each area. Part of her job was to also do oral history interviews. She ended up spending approximately two and a half years completing everything the Smithsonian would need. After completing the project and her courses, Elendu returned to Colorado, this time with her daughter. They lived in Oak Creek where, at the time, the town was reestablishing a museum in its newly restored town hall. Elendu said, “I just fell into that. I worked with the town historian, Mike Yurich, who had lived there since he was a child. We had 11 exhibits that we did within five or

six weeks. They had all of these people coming, to give speeches and hand out awards. This was all because the historical society members knocked themselves out and did a beautiful job of restoring the town hall. It was just absolutely gorgeous.” Now, with a child and finished with another job, Elendu decided it was time to move closer to her parents which led her to return to Delta County. Prior to working at the Delta County Museum, Elendu volunteered with the Western Slope Conservation Center in Paonia. Elendu said that one of the most beautiful things about working in museums is that you can bring history alive by sharing ideas and collaborating with the community. “They say that two heads are better than one, but I think that the more heads that are involved, the better. We all have strengths and we all have weaknesses, so if we utilize those strengths and empower people, then you can bring about amazing things,” she said. Elendu hopes to invigorate community involvement and get people volunteering at the museum. Elendu explained working in a rural community versus working

for a museum at a university. At Michigan State University, the university budget covered a director and an assistant director. In addition, there were curators for every facet of the museum and under them were student workers. Resources and volunteers were abundant. In Delta County, the museum relies on the support of the community members — people who volunteer and trust the museum with their belongings. “It is a matter of honoring tradition, and keeping traditions as well as honoring the people who have come before, who have put blood, sweat, and tears into the facility, into the stewardship.” Laurie continued, “These items have been given to us by a long list of people. I, we, know it is a huge responsibility to ensure the proper care of the items.” There are challenges with working in a small community, but one advantage is the numerous ways of deeply connecting with community members. Elendu’s ultimate goal is to “do something to help educate for the purpose of education, entertainment, and inspiration. And work with values, collaboration, honesty and integrity.”

Delta County Independent

ACTIVITIES

Wednesday, June 27, 2018

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�� ‘Science Saturdays’ scheduled ��

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Grand Mesa Visitor Center is hosting “Science Saturdays” from 2 to 3 p.m. through Color Sunday. The visitor center is located near the intersection of Highway 65 and Forest Road 121. Programs are free and open to the public. June 30 — Birds on the Grand Mesa and Beyond. Come learn about our feathered friends from Cary Atwood, president of the Grand Valley Audubon Society. July 7 — The Awesome Night Sky. This special evening under the stars begins at 8:15 p.m. in the visitor center. At about 9 p.m., participants will adjourn outside to view the night sky with Art Trevena and members of the Black Canyon Astronomical Society. July 14 — Black Bears

on the Mesa. Learn some interesting facts and safety tips about black bears from Bob Morris of Colorado Parks and Wildlife. July 21 — Murder Mystery on the Grand Mesa. Discover the colorful history of Grand Mesa. Presented by Jim Wetzel, author and recently retired curator of the Delta Museum. July 28 — Grand Mesa Moose Day. Learn about the local moose population with Colorado Parks and Wildlife and U.S. Forest Service. Family activities are planned from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. Aug. 4 — The Making of the Mesa: The Geologic Story Behind the Scenery. Build your knowledge of geology with Rex Cole, PhD, geology professor at Colorado Mesa University.

Dawson Springs Band to perform July 8 The Dawson Springs Band will perform at Chapel of the Cross in Cedaredge’s Pioneeer Town on Sunday, July 8, at 4 p.m. Admission is by donation. The band was formed with a mission to bring to the public the songs of yesteryear — songs that focused on our country during the early development and when folks used music to tell their stories of life. Members Beth Williams, Tom Kay, Paul Frazier and Larry

Claxton each have been members of several bands in the past. Beth Williams brings to the band a vast experience in Americana, gospel, and country music. Paul Frazier has performed with several bands that have toured Europe and the United States. Tom Kay has also performed with other bands that needed his skills with the banjo. Larry Claxton has been a DJ, festival director, and a member of several musical groups.

Aug. 9 — Smokey Bear’s Birthday. Celebrate Smokey’s 74th birthday with birthday cake, available while it lasts. Aug. 18 — Invasive and Noxious Weeds on Grand Mesa. Learn about the impacts of noxious weeds and how you can help. Presented by Mark Tabor, weed management specialist, retired Bureau of Land Management. Aug. 25 — Native Peoples of Southwest Colorado. Sally Crum, retired U.S. Forest Service archeologist, will talk about the Native American people who lived in this area. See the tools and plants they relied on for their lifestyle.

Sept. 1 — The Nature Connection Way. A presentation for kids and their parents by Matt Spencer from The Nature Connection, Delta County Schools’ outdoor education organization and partner of the U.S. Forest Service. Sept. 8 — Insect Pollination, with Emphasis on Honey Bees and Native Bees. Presented by Richard Nunamaker, who conducted research with USDA for 23 years while a professor at the University of Wyoming. Sept. 29 — Color Sunday. Come and enjoy the changing fall colors on the Grand Mesa Scenic and Historic Byway, 9 a.m. to 5 p.m.

Chapel of the Cross hosts Beth Williams Americana singer songwriter Beth Williams, accompanied by pianist Sharon Clark, will perform at Cedaredge Chapel of the Cross on Thursday, July 5, at 7 p.m. Admission is by donation. Williams’ original songs have charted in Billboard, Americana, as

well as European charts. She owns Hill Country Recording Studio, has eight CDs on her own record label, and is a session singer for studios in Nashville, Colorado and Texas. She also works with the Dawson Springs Band and is a radio personality with a syndicated songwriter show.

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Two Cents and Change

Two Cents and Change offers a distinctive sound

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Dawson Springs Band

Two Cents and Change will perform at the Chapel of the Cross on Sunday, July 1, at 4 p.m. This group offers a unique mix of musical styles in the Americana genre that embody sounds merged from blues, rock and roll, and alternative country. Jake

Cimarron Sundays showcase train legacy Curecanti National Recreation Area will be providing special Cimarron Sundays this summer. The third Sunday of each month through September, National Park Service interpretive rangers will be stationed at Cimarron to greet visitors, answer questions and provide access to Engine 278. This engine, along with a coal tender, boxcar, and caboose have been undergoing restoration over the last few years. The caboose is currently out of the area for restoration, but the engine, tender, and boxcar are in the train yard at Cimarron. Rangers, on these special Sundays, will provide access into the yard for viewing the newly restored

train components. Rangers will also be roving the area to talk with visitors at the Mesa Creek trailhead, dam overlook, and other notable locations at Cimarron.

Explore the area and learn about its history, geology, and train legacy on July 15, Aug. 19, and Sept. 16. Rangers will be on site from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. those days.

Garduno’s guitar and harmonica playing are a perfect complement to his distinguished vocal talents. Accompanying Jake on mandolin is Mike Decker. Influenced early on by the era of mandolin players such as David Grisman, Decker’s mandolin style offers a perfect counterpoint to Garduno’s guitar playing. Kurt Isgreen’s backup vocals, lead guitar and banjo playing rounds out the distinctive sound that is Two Cents and Change.

Celebrate the 4th at BBQ fundraiser

Teens Against Suicide is hosting a tri-tip barbecue fundraiser in the parking lot of Wells Fargo Wednesday, July 4. Stop by for a tri-tip sandwich and lemonade for just $10. Californiastyle half and whole tritips are also available, for $20 and $35, respectively. A body art booth will also be set up in the parking lot. Learn more at TAS Photo courtesy NPS clubs.net or call 970-658Explore Engine 278 at the Cimarron rail yard. 6699.

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BUSINESS

Delta County Independent

SEI launches solar advising program for rural communities

Photo submitted

State Farm agents from Delta, Grand Junction and Rifle met with legislators at a grassroots event in Grand Junction. After exchanging thoughts with Senator Ray Scott, Representative Dan Thurlow and Representative Yeulin Willett, the agents heard an update on the Food for Thought program from Willyn Webb. State Farm supported the “kids feeding kids” program with a $500 check and donations of food. Pictured above are (from left) Tamara Pachl, public affairs specialist, Seth Rockey, GJ agent, Sean Brumelle, GJ agent, Jerry Reiher, Delta agent, Willyn Webb, Bobbie Carmichael with Jerry Reiher’s Delta office, Jesse Dalton, Rifle agent, Ken Richards, GJ agent, Kevin Parks, Delta agent and Laura LaBlonde, State Farm’s grassroots specialist/law department representative.

State Farm continues support of Food for Thought program Willyn Webb, executive director of Vision Charter Academy and leader of the Food for Thought program, recently updated State Farm agents on the “kids feeding kids” program in Delta County schools. Food for Thought is a two-time recipient of the State Farm Neighborhood Assist grant of $25,000, for a total of $50,000. “The State Farm grants came in at critical transition times for Food for Thought and made the difference in the sustainability of the program,” Webb said during her presentation. “Food for Thought has provided a service learning experience teaching compassion, service, money management, public speaking, nutrition, fundraising and organi-

zation to many learners while feeding an average of 300 kids per weekends of the school year for the past nine years,” Webb said. “We cannot thank State Farm enough for their continued support. All of the character development and hunger relief continued due in a huge part to State Farm. The entire community thanks you!” Agents presented Webb with bags of food donations and State Farm public affairs specialist Tamara Pachl presented a $500 check to Food for Thought on behalf of State Farm. Food for Thought has applied for another Neighborhood Assist Grant and will find out if it “made the cut” from 2,000 entries to the top 200 causes in the nation on

Aug. 15. Now that weekend feeding programs are more common, it is more difficult to get to the voting stage. Please consider donating to the cause at Vision Charter AcademyFood for Thought, 1080 Pioneer Road, Delta, CO 81416 to keep it going!

Vendors, volunteers wanted for Deltarado Days Calling all vendors for DeltaFest (June 28 and Aug. 30) and Deltarado Days (July 28). Applications can be picked up at the chamber. Volunteers are also needed to assist with Deltarado Days events. Please call the chamber at 874-8616 to volunteer.

Solar Energy International (SEI), an industry leader in solar energy technical training, kicked off its newest program, Solar Forward, through a partnership with the Coldharbour Institute in Gunnison County. The Solar Forward program gives nonprofits or community groups in rural Colorado communities the opportunity to partner with SEI to implement initiatives aimed at kickstarting solar markets in a region. Nonprofits can apply to be accepted into the program, and upon entry they receive a toolkit for desired solar growth initiatives chosen from a menu of offerings from SEI, and a year of advising from an SEI technical adviser. Some of these offerings include a toolkit to launch a “Solarize” program, which is a community-driven group purchase program including partnered local installers and an incentivized timeline to go solar, and SEI’s “Solar in Schools” program which brings SEI’s industry-leading solar curriculum to high schools as a trade training program. Coldharbour Institute (CI) plans to use Solar Forward’s toolkit and assistance to launch a Solarize program aimed at increasing residential and commercial solar in the region. Participating communities include Gunnison, Crested Butte, Mount Crested Butte and Crested Butte South in Gunnison County, and Lake City in Hinsdale County. CI resulted from the 2015 merger of Coldharbour Sustainable Living Center and the Office of Resource Efficiency. That year Coldharbour began a relationship with the master of environmental

management program at Western State Colorado University that has developed into a hub of different projects and programs, with the Solarize program being the newest. CI’s mission is to facilitate education, incubation, and demonstration of regenerative personal, community and land practices. “There are many in the Gunnison Valley that would like to see solar utilized more, and this program is the perfect catalyst,” said Hunter Edberg, Gunnison County’s solar program coordinator and CI representative. “Adding solar capacity for residents, schools, and businesses will have a great impact on local economic development, reduce our region’s carbon footprint, and make our local power grid more resilient. The addition of solar on a small scale could also be very useful to leverage the support needed for utility scale solar in the valley as well.” SEI’s experience with solar initiatives in rural communities stems back to its three years of implementing “Economic Revitalization Through Solar” programs in Delta County, with the help of AmeriCorps VISTAs. Through their efforts, Delta County saw over 400 new kilowatts of installed solar (Gunnison County currently has approximately 415 kW), and a partnership with the local rural electric cooperative, Delta Montrose Electric Association (DMEA), that resulted in DMEA pledging $150,000 of unused capital credits to install five 10-kW solar systems on area high schools. “We are thrilled to partner with Coldharbour Institute to bring more solar to Gunnison County,” Solar Forward program manager Mary

Marshall said. “What makes the Solar Forward program unique is that we offer a holistic approach to communities drafting their distributed energy strategies for the future,” Marshall explained. “We provide assistance on initiatives that encourage the growth of rooftop residential solar to commercially-focused outreach, and even solar energy education for future generations. Especially now, when there is so much emphasis on going 100percent renewable, rural communities who benefit the most from the economic diversification and energy resilience that a solar market brings have the potential to lead the way into the future.” Marshall also emphasized that the program seeks to empower rural community groups to be the primary driver for these programs in their own communities, with SEI providing assistance and support when needed. “Community groups have the ability to engage community partners and network in the region that they call home in a way that resonates the most with rural communities,” said Marshall. The Solar Forward program was born out of a prevalent problem in Western Colorado, and nationwide: As communities transition from coaldependent economies, there is a need now more than ever to diversify local economies and build sustainable solutions for the future. Solar creates new local jobs, and locally-produced energy helps keep money in the communities that need it the most. For more information, contact Marshall at mary@solarenergy.org or call 970-527-7657 extension 116.

Know Your Neighbor WED. 6/27

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THUR. �� 6/28 FRI. 6/29

SAT. 6/30

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SUN. �� 7/1 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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My Place Club and Pub is the ONLY place to be in Delta

Have you and your friends (age 21 and older) been looking for a place to get together for a beer, a friendly game of pool and maybe even some live music? Fun is at the heart of My Place Club and Pub, located at 1410 Valley View Drive in Delta, west of Safeway. The bar is under the new ownership of Carmella Russo and Melissa Bailey, who decided that what Delta needs most of all is more entertainment options! They’re bringing in a variety of new bands, comedy shows, trivia, karaoke and more. “We sell fun!” they said. Since purchasing the bar two months ago, Carmella and Melissa have made a few cosmetic changes, expanded leagues and tournaments, and lined up some tasty menu items to serve their phenomenal patrons. Carmella and Melissa have been best friends for years. Going into business together just seemed natural. Carmella has worked in marketing and management; Melissa’s background is in sales and communications. They’ve lined up a DJ every Friday night, host live music every Saturday night (featuring some fun new bands) and host a comedy club show once a month. Most Sundays, they open the ﬂoor for a jam session. They have a variety of instruments — drums, keyboard, guitars, etc. — or you can

bring your own. If you don’t play or sing, just come in from 4 to 8 p.m. to hear some of the undiscovered talent from Delta and Montrose counties. Wednesday is trivia night, with prizes, drink specials and friendly competition from 8 to 9:30. Beginning June 28, free line dance lessons will be offered every Thursday at 7 p.m. Two new line dances will be taught every week, so when the DJ arrives at 8, you’ll be ready to show off your new moves.

High school reunions ... family reunions ... birthday parties ... whatever you’re celebrating, My Place is where you want to be, with tons of party options plus a huge dance ﬂoor, four pool tables, dart boards and music. Staff includes bar manager Trisha and some great bartenders — Callie, Demi, Jimmy, Zach and Steff. For a complete menu, visit www. myplace2018.com and like My Place on Facebook so you don’t miss any of the great events lined up for the summer!

My Place Club and Pub sells fun! The business is under the new ownership of Carmella Russo and Melissa Bailey.

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NORTH FORK June 27, 2018

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Celebrate 72 years of Cherry Days fun BY TAMIE MECK Staff Writer

One of the longest continuously running festivals in Colorado, Cherry Days turns 72 this year. The Paonia Lions Club planned the first Cherry Day as a fundraiser to secure lights for the high school football field, also known as Dan Lawrence Field. “The celebration met with such success that it was continued to present day,” wrote Paonia native Claudia King in her 1996 book, “Treasured Memories: The First Thirty Years.” To mark the occasion, local fruit houses offered free bags of cherries. “These were well-received by the throngs of people coming to Paonia as all loved the delicious, darkred Bing and Lambert cherries and colorful yellow Royal Anne cherries with blushing red cheeks.” This year’s theme is “Grounded in Our Roots.” One of the oldest Cherry Days traditions, the Clown Band marched in the first Cherry Day in 1946. Originally called the Lions Club Clown Band, member costumes were sewn from World War II parachute fabric “dyed bright garish yellow with an intervening red piece of fabric completing the costume,” wrote King. Chris Johnson, who has marched in more than 50 Cherry Days parades, shared in 2017 that his dad, Tolly Johnson, and George “Shorty” Hunteen with Howard’s Hardware were among the founding members. His uncle, “Skip” Johnson, a WWII B-24 pilot with the Flying Tigers, supplied the parachute silk fabric he brought home after the war. Some of those costumes are still worn in the parade. Anyone who can play an instrument is welcome to join them, said Johnson. They meet the morning of the parade, around 8:30 or 9 a.m., at Friends Church to dress and rehearse. It helps to have a costume, but if musicians don’t have one, they’ll try and come up with one. The more trumpets the better, said Johnson, because their sound carries and the other musicians don’t have to play so loud. Cherry Days is made possible by an all-volunteer group

Photo by Tamie Meck

The coal shoveling contest is back, beginning at 1 p.m. Wednesday, July 4.

known collectively as the Cherry Days 4-Ever Committee. Six years ago this group stepped in and literally saved Cherry Days. “It’s a great group,” said chair Bob Bushta. The first couple of years were rough, but three years after they pulled off their first Cherry Days, they began operating in the black and remain debt-free to this day. After two challenging seasons, area farmers report healthy cherry crops this year. One of more than 40 booths expected at this year’s festival, Antelope Farms will have fresh cherries for sale. They also supply pits for the July 4 Cherry Pit Spitting Contest starting at 4:30 p.m. The festival officially runs July 3 and 4, but events begin at 7 a.m. this Saturday with the Cherry Days 5k run to benefit the Paonia High School cross country program. The Cherry Days softball tournament happens Saturday and Sunday at Volunteer Park, located off of Mathews Lane on Hayden Road. Registration information and other details are at cherrydays.com. Celebrate Paonia’s ranching heritage Saturday night at the 13th annual Bulls N’ Broncs War (formerly the North Fork Challenge) at North Fork Horse Patrol where Mathews Lane meets the railroad tracks. A group of young local rodeo enthusiasts took over this event last year. They will award the first North Fork Horse Patrol scholarship during the event. After the rodeo, dance the night away at the American Legion Wilson-Head Post 97. On July 3, experience the best of downtown Paonia at the Paonia Chamber of Commerce Downtown Day. From 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. enjoy food, special sales and live music. Start July 4 off at the Paonia Fire Department’s annual pancake breakfast, served from 6-9 a.m. at Paonia Town Hall. Cost is $7 for adults, $5 for kids, with proceeds benefiting the PFD scholarship fund. The parade begins at 10 a.m. sharp. The challenge is to put some meaning into the sequence in which the parade is organized, said parade organizer Ulli Lange, who is also this year’s grand marshal. Registration is accepted up to the morning of the parade, but early registration helps greatly to keep things running smoothly. (Registration forms are on the Cherry Days website.) “The earlier the better,” said Lange. Early registration also helps Tess Backhus to write a good parade narrative, which is read by parade announcer Patty Naft. The hugely popular Coal Shoveling Contest returns to

Cherry Days on July 4. Last held in 2015, this contest of strength, grit and endurance harkens back to the glory days of coal mining in the North Fork Valley. It starts at 1 p.m. at the football field grandstand, but arrive early for good seating. While at the park, consider visiting the newly-renovated Miner’s Memorial located at the southeast end of Town Park. Made by Price, Utah, sculptor Gary Prazen and dedicated in 1983, the Miner’s Statue includes the names of local miners who lost their lives over the years. A full schedule of events is included in today’s paper, and paoniacherrydays.com has tons of information. A couple of things to remember: Admission to Cherry Days is free, but the WOW Factor Attractions charges admission. Due to past issues, NO DOGS are allowed in the park during the Cherry Days festivities. State law does not allow alcohol to be brought into the park or the Beer & Wine Garden. And please leave glass containers at home.

Photo by Tamie Meck

Allison Kirk feeds grandmother Lori Marek of Paonia a sweet cherry at Orchard Valley Farms. With most area fruit growers getting a good crop this year, cherries will be plentiful this Cherry Days.

Commissioners adopt North Fork Ambulance District service plan BY ANNETTE BRAND Staff Writer

Delta County Commissioners Doug Atchley, Mark Roeber and Don Suppes passed a Resolution to adopt the North Fork Ambulance District Service Plan at their June 25 meeting. North Fork Ambulance District (NFAD) will serve in three counties: Delta, Montrose and Gunnison. Montrose County has adopted the service plan and Gunnison County is expected to adopt the service plan this week. The NFAD service area includes 1,550 square miles, with 75 miles of paved twolane highway and over 300

miles of county road, ranging from paved to primitive. The service from Hotchkiss extends west on Hwy. 92 to Payne Siding, encompasses part of Redlands Mesa, and continues east on Hwy. 133 to Paonia. From Paonia, the service area continues north up Stephen’s Gulch to the Mesa County line, and northeast of Paonia on Hwy. 133 into Gunnison County, through Somerset to the top of McClure Pass. The service area also extends southeast from Hotchkiss on Hwy. 92, through Crawford and into Montrose County, and runs to Mile Marker 56 at the Gunnison County line on Black Mesa.

Creative coalition offers explanation, assurances BY PAT SUNDERLAND Managing Editor

Susie Kaldis, board president, and Spencer Lightfoot, program director for the North Fork Valley Creative Coalition, recently updated Hotchkiss trustees on the status of the North Fork Creative District, which now encompasses only Paonia. The creative coalition, however, continues to promote events in the communities of Crawford, Hotchkiss and Paonia. When the North Fork was

established as an “emerging” creative district in 2012, Kaldis explained, where were no guidelines or restrictions on geography. Since then, Colorado Creative Industries, the state agency that certifies creative districts, has narrowed the definition of creative districts as “walkable and contiguous.” Because Paonia has a high concentration of galleries, studios and restaurants within its historic downtown, Paonia was the focus of the applica-

Paonia activist prevails in lawsuit PRESS RELEASE

Judge rules Facebook comment was “substantially true” A libel claim by SG Interests against Paonia resident Pete Kolbenschlag was dismissed on grounds “that the statement attributed to the defendant was substantially true.” On June 20, Delta County Judge Steve Schultz issued a ruling in a widely-watched defamation case that Kolbenschlag claimed was a SLAPP action for his years of effective activism. A SLAPP, or “Strategic Lawsuit Against Public Participation,” is defined as a tactic used to silence opposition by filing frivolous legal actions to hamper and hamstring citizens who dare speak out against powerful interests. “SLAPP actions are a pernicious and undemocratic tactic that not only tie up our tax-funded courts with bogus claims, and waste taxpayer money, but also seek to chill free speech and community activism,” said Kolbenschlag. Kolbenschlag was sued in February 2017, by SG Interests (SGI), a Texas-based oil

and gas company. “This matter has tied me up for over a year, based on a ridiculous claim that my substantially true statement, critical of this company, was somehow libelous. The judge got it right, and dismissed the complaint in its entirety,” Kolbenschlag said. According to Schultz’s order granting motion for summary judgment, “The court ultimately finds that the defendant’s statement was substantially true and therefore not actionable...” In addition, notes the court, the plaintiff “disregards the full context” of Kolbenschlag’s statement, which was made in the public comment section of the GSPI website, stating that if the plaintiff holds it to exacting standards “would not only be unwarranted, but would be chilling to protected speech.” SGI is one of two companies accused of collusion in 2005, for rigging bids for oil and gas leases on public lands in Colorado’s North Fork Valley, where Kolbenschlag has lived and been a high-profile activist for 20 years. The suit was based on comments Kolbenschlag made on a Nov. 28, 2016, article on the Glenwood Springs Post Independent newspaper’s website regard-

Kathy Steckel, executive director of North Fork Ambulance (NFA), shared the steps the NFA has taken, and is taking, to become the North Fork Ambulance District. As personal background, Steckel served on the NFA board for seven years, as parttime director for four years and has served as the executive director for three and one-half years. She is one of the NFA’s Advance Life Support providers, takes on-call shifts, and provides patient care. In presenting the NFAD service plan, Steckel was accompanied by board memAMBULANCE DISTRICT TO B2

ing a different matter involving oil and gas leases in the Thompson Divide area. The comment referenced the settlement in a case brought by the federal government against these companies under the Sherman Antitrust Act. In his ruling, Judge Schultz noted that “substantial truth is a complete defense to a defamation claim,” that the statement left by Kolbenschlag was substantially true and not materially false, and that SGI therefore has no actionable claim. Judge Schultz also noted that numerous other media outlets reported the same information referred to in Kolbenschlag’s comments, yet were not subject to any action by the plaintiff, and that the collusive activity for which the plaintiff was originally sued by the federal government was more damaging to its reputation than any mere reader comment. Kolbenschlag was represented by Steven Zansberg, with Ballard Spahr. Zansberg has more than 20 years of experience in defending media companies and individuals and is president of the Colorado Freedom of Information Coalition. “It is outrageous that this oil company could bring such

a groundless and frivolous lawsuit for the sole purpose of trying to silence one critic and intimidate others,” said Zansberg. “The court’s ruling recognizes this tactic for what it is and quite appropriately dismisses the baseless claim.” SGI is active in western Colorado, with plans for drilling dozens of new fracked gas wells in the valley. Although based in Texas, this privatelyheld company is the largest single campaign contributor, to the political campaigns of the region’s congressman, U.S. Representative Scott Tipton over his seven-year career in Washington D.C., according to the website OpenSecrets.org. “As SGI pushes forward with plans to expand industrial development on our public lands and national forests, apparently with the blessings of our elected representative, it is a crucial time for Coloradans to know that their ability to speak out for their own interests is not negotiable. We will not be shut down by intimidation and bully tactics,” Kolbenschlag said. “I am very grateful to my attorney, Steve Zansberg; for the more than 320 locals and others that contributed to my legal defense; and for Judge Schultz’s decision.”

tion for recertification. “We know this feels like a hit to the residents of the town of Hotchkiss, but we felt if we didn’t shrink the district, there would be no creative district in Delta County,” they explained. Kaldis said it is somewhat of a relief to be able to focus on just one community, although she stressed the NFVCC is not giving up on Hotchkiss or Crawford. Programs will continue to be developed to strengthen and enhance the creative labors of the entire community. On Labor Day, NFVCC member artists and agricultural producers throughout the area are invited to participate in an Art & Ag Tour that NFVCC promises to market extensively. The goal is to attract more visitors to the area by showcasing cultural and artistic organizations, events and amenities. Turning to practicalities, Kaldis and Lightfoot addressed the NFVCC banners hanging from light standards in Hotchkiss. They have not held up well, and at the recommendation of Hotchkiss public works director Mike Owens, both banners and brackets will be removed by coalition representatives. Trustee Sheila Maki thanked the NFVCC representatives for the update. She said the trustees had no idea what was going on until Linda Tullis with the Creamery informed them Hotchkiss had been dropped from the district because the of walkability issue. On a more positive note, the town has received a $38,000 REDI grant through Region 10 to conduct an economic survey and diversification plan for the area. The town and Hotchkiss Community Chamber of Commerce are partnering on this effort, which will begin with a survey of merchants.

B2 Wednesday, June 27, 2018

NORTH FORK TIMES

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FROM PAGE B1 bers, NFAD consultant, NFAD attorney, and several supporters of the North Fork Ambulance becoming a district. The commissioners had received letters of support for NFAD and the letters became a part of the record. For 49 years the NFA has been funded through membership fees, grants, donations and ambulance transport fees. This vital service has never received public funding. Income sources are not keeping pace with rising expenses, causing a budget shortfall. Most insurance companies, including Medicare and Medicaid, set limits for reimbursement, causing NFA to write off over 50 percent of what it bills. NFA billing rates and write-offs are comparable to other EMS agencies. NFA is also experiencing a growing aging population as people retire in the North Fork Valley. Conservative stewardship by NFA board members established a reserve fund. In the past few years NFA has had to dip into the reserve funds. Over the past several years NFA has explored options to continue ambulance services. In 2015 NFA held five public meetings in and around the valley to establish priorities. The first priority was response time; second, raise the level of care provided; and third, become financially sustainable. To address these priorities, NFA took the following action. First, NFA has kept ambulances operating from all three stations, Crawford, Hotchkiss and Paonia, using oncall labor to staff three stations. To support and encourage crew members NFA delivered necessary training, equipment and support needed, as well as providing a financial reward. The first on-call pay was established in 2009. This strategy is successful, and NFA maintains on-call crews in all three stations. Second, NFA raised the level of care, which was met with enthusiasm by crew members who were willing to raise their level of certification. Grants were written and dona-

tions received to purchase three quick tesponse vehicles to get Advance Life Support personnel to the scene of emergencies quickly. Advance Life Support providers are able to administer EKGs on scene and start cardiac medications, as well as manage pain and seizures, and sooner than ever before in the North Fork Valley. The third priority of financial sustainability has been more complicated. To increase income from transports, in 2015 the board updated membership terms to capture medical billing income while maintaining benefits to members. In 2016 and 2017 NFA increased membership and wrote grants, many of which

Delta County Independent

were approved. Donations from the community and local service clubs have been at an all-time high. The budget remains in the red. In January 2017 the financial committee began serious research into public funding. In June 2017 the board voted to form a special district and seek voter approval for public funding. To meet special district requirements, the board has completed a 10-year financial projection, written the service plan, surveyed the public and is now seeking adoption of the service plan from the three counties involved (two of which have adopted the plan). Steckel said, “We are now ready to move for-

Enduring friendship

ward to obtain approval from the voters in November.” Steckel said the average cost to a North Fork Valley property owner will be about $41 per $100,000 assessed residential property value. If a home has an assessed value of $200,000, the cost is estimated at $82 per year. Commissioner Suppes asked how the mill levy for NFAD compares to the mill levy for Delta County Ambulance District. Steckel said it will be the same. Commissioner Roeber said, “You have taken your first step, and it is a good first step. Everybody has worked so hard and now it is time for the voters to decide.”

Photos submitted

For 50 years, Steve Hicks, Roger Christian, George Osborn and Larry Spencer have been close friends who have enjoyed hunting and ﬁshing together. All four attended school in Hotchkiss and still call Hotchkiss home. The top photo was taken when they were just 16 and 17 years of age. The more recent version (with the four in the same order) was taken in the same location — on the Leroux Creek homestead where Hicks was raised. Even the “toys” are just newer versions of the vehicles they were driving in 1968.

Farm Runners celebrates opening of The Station in Hotchkiss STAFF REPORT

The Station, located at 235 Highway 133, Hotchkiss, celebrated its opening with a ribboncutting ceremony Friday, June 22. The venture is an extension of Farm Runners, which was established by Emma StopherGriffin and Matthew Kottenstette. They moved to Hotchkiss in 2012 to work at Thistle Whistle Farm. After farming for a couple years and developing relationships with many farmers in the North Fork Valley, they started Farm Runners to help farmers market and distribute their products.

The old Go-Fer convenience store was used as a base for wholesale distribution. “Before moving into the space, we didn’t realize what a lasting legacy the Go-Fer Foods had on this community,” said store manager Katie Darlington. “Although the Go-Fer’s had been shut down for more than eight years when we took over the building, it seemed like people still felt connections to the place. So many people told us that the Go-Fer had the best breakfast sandwiches around, which is what gave us the idea to offer grab-n-go breakfasts. It wasn’t just a gas station,

it was a community spot where folks could get an affordable lunch or an ice cream with their kid after school. We really want The Station to be a new take on what people were missing — a convenient and welcoming place to get food you can feel good about. “It’s neat to have a storefront,” Darlington added. “It bridges the gap between the agricultural community and those who are less involved in it.” In addition to grab-ngo breakfast and lunch items, The Station features fruit, veggies, meat, eggs, dairy, and pantry goods from your

favorite local farmers, plus coffee, cold drinks and cakes, cookies and pastries from Blue Sky Baking. “We see so many opportunities for our new store,” Darlington said. “There is potential to expand our menu and to be able to do more in-house food prep so that we can offer things like take-and-bake dinners, pre-made soups, and house-made tomato sauce. The possibilities are endless. We’re really open to what our community wants and needs.” The Station is open Wednesday-Friday 7 to 6, Saturday 8 to 5 and Sunday noon to 5.

Photo by Tamie Meck

Hotchkiss Community Chamber of Commerce representatives Sue Whittlesley and Nathan Sponseller join with store manager Katie Darlington, second from left, and owners Emma Stopher-Grifﬁn and Matthew Kottenstette for a ribbon cutting ceremony at The Station last Friday.

NORTH FORK TIMES

Delta County Independent

Wednesday, June 27, 2018

Motorcyclist sustains serious injuries in crash STAFF REPORT

A motorcyclist from Broomfield sustained serious injuries in a collision that closed down Highway 133 near Bethlehem Road Friday, June 22, at approximately 4:35 p.m. According to Trooper Josh Lewis with the Colorado State Patrol, a 2002 Toyota Tundra driven by Don Gates, 57, was westbound on Highway 133 when Timothy Staroba, 47, lost control of a Photo by Tamie Meck 2018 Harley-Davidson A motorcycle rider sustained serious injuries after motorcycle as he was ridcolliding with a Toyota Tundra outside of Paonia ing eastbound. Staroba laid the bike down and late Friday afternoon, June 22.

became separated from the bike, which hit the front of the Toyota. Gates was not injured. Neither alcohol nor drugs are considered a factor in the crash, although it’s believed that Staroba may have been hit by a bird just before the accident occurred, said Trooper Lewis. Traffic was rerouted over Bethlehem Road. In addition to the Colorado State Patrol, sheriff ’s deputies, North Fork Ambulance and the Paonia Fire Department responded to the crash. While this is a unique

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 increased 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 arena-side 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 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 arena-side parking, call Shane at 970-261-2251 or Haillie at 208-309-1164.

situation, Trooper Lewis reminds everyone to share the road and be cognizant of other vehicles. With the warm weather comes an increase in two-

wheeled vehicle traffic, and drivers are encourage to “double and triple check before making lane changes or crossing intersections.”

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Photo by Tamie Meck

There will be plenty of excitement at the North Fork Horse Patrol arena Saturday, June 30, with the 13th annual Bulls ‘n Broncs War. The action begins at 7:30 p.m. at the arena, located at 39696 Matthews Lane.

Take a cool break at Paonia museum’s ice cream social BY TAMIE MECK Staff Writer

While enjoying the 72nd Cherry Days celebration take a break from all the festivities

and take in Paonia’s rich history at the North Fork Historical Society Paonia Museum. From 1-4 p.m. Wednesday, July 4, after the parade is over and

Photo by Tamie Meck

Final Friday Frolic

Artist Shannon Richardson talks with visitors from Arizona at Second Story Studio above the Blue Sage Center for the Arts in Paonia. Built in 1902, the building features original ﬁnishes and woodwork that’s never been painted over. Kirby Wade and Wild Witch Medicinals and watercolor painter Spencer Lightfoot share the space with Richardson. The studio is one of many downtown businesses that will remain open from 5-9 p.m. Friday, June 29, for the Final Friday Frolic.

the Cherry Days royalty has been crowned, the museum will host its annual ice cream social. A long-standing Cherry Days tradition, the social includes root beer floats and provides a shady spot near the North Fork of the Gunnison River to enjoy them in. While there, meet curator Judy Livingston, a Paonia native whose grandparents arrived in Paonia by covered wagon and who loves to share her knowledge of history. The museum is housed in two buildings. The main museum is located in the former Parks family home built in 1906 and moved to the site in 1998. Donated by the family of Kevin Parks, the house contains countless items, from dishes and everyday articles to personal possessions and locally-made artifacts. There’s also a telephone switchboard from the local phone coop, a cash register from Paonia Mercantile, and lots of photographs. Don’t leave without taking a tour of the tworoom Bowie Schoolhouse. Moved from its original

site in 1976, the schoolhouse still maintains its country charm and has the original desks, desks, books, black boards, fixtures and other items left in the building after the Delta County School District combined in the early 1950s. There’s also a map detailing the location of all of the former one- and two-room schoolhouses — and there were many — in the North Fork area. The museum is located north of downtown just before the Grand Avenue Bridge and is adjacent to Paonia River Park. The park offers more than a half-mile of walking trails, interpretive signage, and rare public access to the North Fork of the Gunnison River. The park entrance, river outlook, handicap access ramp to the river and trails were made by local metals artist Ira Houseweart.

This year’s Cherry Days button features a design by Cleya Hartter that reﬂects the theme “Grounded in Our Roots.” Pick up your button at Don’s Market, Paonia Farm and Home, Hays Drug, Dependable Lumber and Berg Harvest and show your support for Cherry Days.

PEOPLE IN THE NEWS

65th class reunion

Photo by Tamie Meck

Members of the Crawford School graduating class of 1953 attended their 65th class reunion Saturday, June 9, during the annual Crawford Pioneer Days celebration. Clockwise from lower left are Danny Lynch, Dennis Turner, Pat “Patsy” (Hendrix) Bennett, Patricia “Pat” (Porter) Polson, Raymon Ayers and Charles Klaseen. Of the 16 who graduated, 11 survive. George Van Den Berg and Mack Hoover had planned to come but were unable to attend. Classmates rode a ﬂoat. Their motto: “There’s no place like home.”

Emily Pieper, a nursing major from Paonia, was named to the Provost List at Saint Francis University in Loretto, Pa. To be named to the Provost List students must have full-time status and attain a quality point average of at least 3.8 for the given semester.

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B4 Wednesday, June 27, 2018

CHERRY DAYS

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Ulli Lange honored as grand marshal BY TAMIE MECK Staff Writer

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When the 72nd annual Cherry Days Parade begins this Independence Day, Cherry Days 4-Ever committee member Ulli Lange will be pulling double duty. Lange was selected at this year’s parade grand marshal. He will ride in a wagon owned by Brett Barker and powered by a team Spotted Draft horses. They will be accompanied by Barker’s dog and several children. Cherry Days committee chair Bob Bushta said Lange was selected as grand marshal at one of the few committee meetings he missed, which happened to be the meeting to select the grand marshal. “It was unanimous,” said Bushta. Lange and his lovely bride, Inge, hail from Germany and immigrated to America in 1964. His career in coal mining led them to Paonia. He is also one of the volunteers that rescued Cherry Days six years ago and served five years as treasurer. The past six years he organized the parade. Like this year’s theme, “Grounded in our roots,” Ulli and Inge are grounded in the Paonia community. “I’m not an old-timer, you know,” said Lange, who first came to Paonia in 1982. “I consider this an honor, because Inge and I, we did a lot for the community.” Inge will not be by his side. She lost her life to cancer in May of 2017. He plans to wear his Prussian coal-mining uniform emblazoned with miner’s pick and hammer that he

Photo by Tamie Meck

Ulli and Inge Lange immigrated from Germany in 1964 and have lived in Paonia since 1992. Ulli is this year’s Cherry Days Parade Grand Marshal. Inge would be by his side, but she passed away in 2017 following a long battle with cancer. wore early in his career as a coal miner. He wore it on their wedding day in 1961. Coal mining in Germany is a tradition that dates back some 500 years, he said. Each of the various regions has its own uniform worn for special occasions “like a tuxedo.” And it still fits, he said proudly. “Good quality, too.” Lange said he doesn’t want to drive home the fact that he’s from Germany. Rather he wants to honor coal mining, coal miners, and his long connection to the profession. “Yes, I’m an American. I’m a citizen; I vote,” he said. Paonia is made up of the old-timers and the newcomers, “And I’m a newcomer.” Ulli worked as a coal miner, coal mining engineer, managed coal mines, and at one point owned a mine. He wanted to go into farming after enjoying much of his youth at his grandfather’s farm near Berlin. One sum-

Ollie’s Ice Crea m Open at 11: 00 a. m. Tuesday a nd at 9: 00 a. m. for the Parade ��

Ollie’s Ice Crea m

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Photo by Tamie Meck

The crowd-pleasing coal shoveling contest returns this year to Cherry Days. Ulli Lange was among those who revived this competition in 2015 and is happy to see it back after a two-year hiatus. The event starts at 1 p.m., Wednesday, July 4, by the football ﬁeld grandstand.

mer during high school he needed money for a school trip and took a job at a local coal mine and went on to study mining engineering. In 1964 Ulli and Inge immigrated with children Debbie, Lars and Jens to the United States and purchased a farm in Marianna, Penn. In 1983 he came to Paonia seeking land for German steel mills, and friend and Paonia resident Bob Johnson urged him to buy property here. They found a house and lot overlooking the valley and rented it out for 10 years. In 1992 they made Paonia their permanent home. Inge was a long-time member of Friends of the Paonia Library. Ulli served on the board of Pitkin Mesa Water for several years and was president of the North Fork Pool, Parks & Recreation board the last five years. With Inge gone he’s traveling more and didn’t seek re-election this spring. A life-long bicyclist, he still makes time to ride. He’s also a member of the Rotary Club of the North Fork Valley. Since joining Rotary in 1991 he’s belonged to clubs in West Virginia, Pennsylvania, and Somerset, Wash. He likes Rotary’s humanitarian projects, but he also likes the social aspects. “When you come to town, as a newcomer it’s a good tool for meeting people and making contacts with your community,” he said. He and Inge sponsored a high school student through Rotary’s Youth Exchange program and never lost touch. Exchange programs are “a good concept that

helps people understand better the different cultures of the world and understand how people think,” he said. The Langes also befriended Crawford resident and legendary rock musician, Joe Cocker, who died of cancer in 2014. Cocker performed in Dresden in 1988 after Mikhail Gorbachev allowed Western musicians into West Germany. “It was a big thing,” he said. Shortly before the Berlin Wall came down Cocker performed a concert in Dresden. An estimated 85,000-100,000 attended, and East Berliners listened from over the wall. “There were more on the East side listening than on the West,” said Lange. After the concert, the site was unofficially named “Cockerwiese” (Joe Cocker Meadow). When Cocker died, Lange was unable to convince the mayor of Dresden to make the name official, but he was granted permission to place a memorial plaque at the park. That happened on May 20, 2015, which is, coincidentally, Cocker’s birthday. Inge and Ulli were the only ones in their family to immigrate to America, and they maintained close ties to their homeland, where Inge was buried. Ulli recently traveled to Germany to place a memorial stone on her grave, where one day he will join her. She’s in a family plot established by his grandfather when his first-born died in an accident at age 2. “It’s a beautiful place,” he said. In Germany, cemetery plots are leased, making them impermanent, but his family plot is a dedicated landmark as well as an active burial plot and can never be changed. Lange said she will be with him in spirit when he rides in the parade. He praised the volunteers who keep Cherry Days going. In 2015 he and fellow Rotarian Jackie Parks revived the Cherry Days coal-shoveling contest, which for many years had been a part of Cherry Days. When the mines began closing, they lost their support and it was again canceled. This year, the event is back, and he couldn’t be happier about it.

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CHERRY DAYS

Delta County Independent

Wednesday, June 27, 2018

Cherry Days music lineup is impressive BY TAMIE MECK Staff Writer

The first musical act on this year’s Cherry Days schedule is Shinyribs. This nine-member group out of Austin (Texas, that is) performs at 8 p.m. Saturday, June 30, at The Paradise Theatre in downtown Paonia. Shinyribs features an R&B horn section, backup singers, and soul-stirring sounds that have uplifted audiences from Austin city limits to the Ridgway Concert Series and Paonia’s Pickin’ in the Park concert series. Described as an “exaltation of spirit,” their show is a “hip-shaking, bellylaughing, soul-singing, song-slinging down-home house party. Featuring Winfield Cheek on keyboard, Keith Langford on drums, Jeff Brown on bass, the Tijuana Trainwreck Horns, and The Shiny Soul Sisters,” they touch on all styles of American music and are sure to get you up on your feet. Visit paradise ofpaonia.com/shinyribs/ for details. This show was close to selling out at press time. On July 3 and 4 the Paonia Chamber of Commerce Downtown Day and Howard Berkman Memorial Stage at Paonia Town Park feature a strong line-up of local and regional musical acts. Cherry Days 4Ever Committee music coordinator Skip Naft has brought major talents to Paonia the last five years, and this year is no exception. Naft personally dedicates this year’s Cherry Days music to Mike Gwinn. A lifelong stage man and longtime Paonia musician, Gwinn passed away last December. He had a positive influence on the local music scene and played at many Cherry Days. “Mike was just a fantastic member of the community,” said Naft. He also recognizes Daniel Be, “the unsung hero and sound man of Cherry Days” and many other musical events. “He’s been doing this for a long time and deals calmly with anything you throw at him.” Tuesday, July 3 Downtown Day Naft has assembled a line-up sure to have something for everyone, beginning on July 3 at the annual Paonia Chamber of Commerce Downtown Day. 11 a.m.-2 p.m. — Take a break at Poulos Park and enjoy acoustic music by Ellen Stapenhorst and Kim Johnson. Stapenhorst’s talents have taken her from the LA coffee houses of the 1960s, the eclectic Aspenbased country-rock band Tanglefoot in the 1970s, and to Nashville and Northern California. Stapenhorst has shared the stage with John Denver, Buffy Saint Marie, the Nitty Gritty Dirt Band, Shawn Colvin, Frankie Valle and others. Her most recent CD, “Gravity & Light,” was recorded at Cool Brick Studios in Carbondale. Songs range “from new folk to new grass, Celtic, gospel and more.” Her song “Traveler” made LA Acoustic radio’s most requested list for two years, and “Grand Junction” was featured on NPR’s “Car Talk” program. Her fifth album, “Gravity &

Sam Heart will serenade during the barbecue at First Colorado National Bank on Tuesday, July 3, beginning at noon. Light,” continues her personal mission of social conscience with a little satire for good measure. Johnson performs original material and covers from John Denver, Tom Petty, Fleetwood Mac and others. Johnson hails from Southern California, but grew up in Colorado and has deep family roots in Paonia where her parents met. 12-1:30 p.m. — Sam Heart will serenade the crowd at First Colorado National Bank during the barbecue fundraiser for the Paonia High School volleyball team. Heart offers a broad mix of covers and originals including rock, blues, country, pop, hip hop and Americana. His strong, soulful vocals and percussive guitar style just might get you dancing and laughing, or even a bit teary-eyed. 3-4:30 p.m. — Head to Paonia Town Park, where Paonia musicians Sarah Eller and David Snider, with Bobby Walker on drums, bring jazz, rock and blues to the Howard Berkman Memorial Stage. A jazz, blues and rock vocalist, Eller has graced the local stage the better part of 20 years. She is a perfect complement to Snider, a multiinstrumentalist who has toured with Sonny Sharrock and Gato Barbieri. He has played, toured and recorded with jazz saxophonist Pharaoh Sanders, Maria Muldaur, Pat Benatar, Richard Belzer, Janis Ian, Dusty Springfield and others. Snider composes both jazz and pop music as well as movie and video soundtracks. Among his greatest influences are Jimi Hendrix, Miles Davis, Nat King Cole, James Brown, and John Coltrane. His latest CD, “Be Cool,” offers a mix of jazz and jazz-funk. 5-6:30 p.m. — Gypsy Whiskey is a dynamic acoustic group out of northern Colorado. “Painting on the canvas of life from a pallet of emotions, Gypsy Whiskey harnesses rock ‘n’ roll, blues and folk into a soulful acoustic performance.” Just off of playing Silver City in Aspen, Cherry Days was very lucky to get this up and coming band, as they are on the verge of releasing their first album, says Naft. 7-9 p.m. — Spend an unforgettable evening Lipbone Redding. Lipbone played the 2016 Cherry Days and last year performed at The Paradise Theatre during Cherry Days. “Lipbone is the consummate performer,” says Naft. This unplugged one-man orchestra weaves original stories through throat-singing, bass and beat boxing,

Dynamic acoustic group, Gypsy Whiskey, is part of an outstanding lineup of performers scheduled for Tuesday, July 3. They play in Paonia Town Park at 5 p.m. and Lipbone Redding will close out the evening at 7 p.m. Enjoy another full day of music on Wednesday, July 4.

and his astonishingly realistic lip-tromboning talents, funky rhythms, catchy melodies, brash humor, soulful singing, and inventive guitarplaying. A modern-day Louie Prima, “...this organic soundman has crazy talent that must be seen and heard to be believed.” Wednesday, July 4 This year’s Cherry Days parade featured band is The Scones. “The Scones are a perfect fit for Cherry Days,” said Naft. A 1960s-era rock band featuring Rick Stockton, Helen Highwater and Melanie Jean, The Scones will rock the entire parade route with their iconic blend of

Listen to Paonia muscians David Snider and Sarah Eller on the Howard Berkman Memorial Stage in Paonia Town Park on Tuesday, July 3, from 3-4:30 p.m.

original and cover tunes influenced by the Summer of Love. They’ll ride on a flat bed generously provided by Austin Family Farms, with a sound system powered by a generator from the estate of Paonia photographer Celia Roberts. Miss Jaecey Hoops, local master of the iconic hula hoop, will perform alongside the band. At noon, Van Tuin will open Cherry Days with the singing of the national anthem at the Howard Berkman Memorial Stage. 1-2:30 p.m. — A fourmember band based in Grand Junction, Stray Grass specializes in a high-energy interpretation of acoustic music. Although played mostly on traditional instruments, the musical styling of Stray Grass is anything but traditional. They have played at festivals throughout Colorado, and were finalists at the Telluride Bluegrass band competition. They’ve opened for Sam Bush & Del McCoury, Cadillac Sky, the Nitty Gritty Dirt Band and others. On June 22 they released a new CD, “Live from the Radio Room,” recorded last December. 3:30-5 p.m. — After the crowning of the roy-

Get creative for costume contest A 4th of July costume contest brings a new twist to Cherry Day activities. Participants are encouraged to dress in red, white and blue, or in any attire that reflects the 4th of July or the Cherry Days theme, “Grounded in Our Roots.” Get creative, but remember Cherry Days is a family event! Come to Paonia Town Park on July 4 dressed in your costume. Sign up at the Cherry Days booth by

1 p.m. and get an entry number. Sign-up is free. Then wander through the park, being friendly to everyone, because the judges will be quietly watching. You won’t know who they are, and you could be judged anywhere in the park. Winners will be announced at 5 p.m. from the stage, and you must be present to win the prizes that will be awarded for this event.

alty, the cherry spitting, wood-splitting and coalshoveling are over, enjoy the sounds of The Bobby Walker Trio, featuring David Snider and Paonia drummer Justin Hess. Walker has brought his own brand of rockin’ blues to the Paonia stage, and every time it’s been fun. He’s also coming off of the release of his latest CD, “Come out Swingin’,” featuring Snider and Sarah Eller. 7-9 p.m. — Zolopht will close out Cherry Days. Established in 2009,

Zolopht has become a premier act in the Colorado music scene. Zolopht has an entirely unique sound that is as catchy as it is progressive. The band has shared the stage with notable artists including The Wailers, Robert Randolph and the Family Band, Dirty Heads and Sam Bush. With two full-length studio albums under their belt and a third on the way, Zolopht has gained an unstoppable momentum. This is an act not to be missed.

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B6 Wednesday, June 27, 2018

CHERRY DAYS

Delta County Independent

There is something for everyone to be found at Cherry Days vendors

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BY TAMIE MECK Staff Writer

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Shop Locally.

More than 40 vendors, civic groups, non-profits and activities booths are expected at this year’s Cherry Days festival. From Aunt Nancy’s yarn marionettes to Annette’s famous Toadstool Face Painting booth, the Civil Air Patrol and the Paonia Bike Club, more than 40 booths mean something for every taste, age and interest. This year, 14 new vendors are expected. Among them are Milner CNC’s metal wall art and engraved items; Getting a New Life’s barn wood signs, stuffed animals from old chenille quilts; The Bible Church Center

offering free bibles, literature and children’s crafts; and Alchemy Hydrosols. Hempothocary offers locally made CBD products. Owner Eva Odle uses locally-sourced and -produced cannabidiol oil in her topicals, tinctures, infused honey and dog treats. While not a lot of research data is available, people have reported that dogs with arthritis, pain, seizures and anxieties react well to CBD, said Odle. This will be the 26th Cherry Days for Tara Miller Claywork. Since 1991, the husband-and-wife team of Tara Miller and Sam Brown has offered hand-thrown, functional pottery — platters, mugs,

bowls, and fruit baskets woven from coils of clay. They use Cherry Days to sell seconds, those not-soperfect, but still functional pieces, mainly because they figured people are looking for a good deal, said Miller. For a few years Miller served on the Cherry Days committee in charge of vendors. The one year they missed the July 4 celebration was spent at another show in Denver. Miller first made pottery in 1972 while teaching high school English in Coos Bay, Ore. “I just needed to go play in the mud,” she said. She took a year off from teaching and worked as a potter, and went full-time in 1982 while living in Aspen. In 1984, she and Sam were married. They partner on some of the pieces, said Miller. “I glaze his work, he glazes mine.” In the fall of 1990 they moved to Paonia. At the time, booths sold mostly imported stuff, said Miller. After their first Cherry Days the Merchant Herald reported that there was actually quality pottery at the festival. They have a new product this year, ceramic planters that come with their own plant. They also offer textiles made by an extended family living at Taquile Island in Lake Titicaca, Peru. They first traveled

Photo by Tamie Meck

Tara Miller chats with customers at her Tara Miller Claywork booth at last year’s Cherry Days. Miller and husband Sam Brown sell stoneware and handmade textiles from Peru. Since 1991 they have missed one Cherry Days festival. to Peru in 1986 and came home with several items and started selling them at fairs. Tara and Sam trade solar equipment for textiles. The hats, gloves and ear bands are knitted mostly by the men. Counter to American culture, she said, “You must knit to be considered a real man.” The women weave local wools into purses, belts, hatbands and scarves, using intricate and very detailed patterns. While living in Aspen they hosted some of the family members and took them to the Carbondale Mountain Fair and other art shows. Their guests gave presentations and

textile workshops. “That sealed our relationship with the extended family,” said Miller. They now have godchildren in Peru and defined ceremonial relationships with their Peruvian family. Tara and Sam work a few other shows, including the Mountain Harvest Festival, and give public and private presentations to groups, including the San Juan Weavers Guild. The couple now makes annual trips to Peru. While products are beautiful and well-made, selling them is “a little tricky,” said Miller, since few people want to try on a winter hat when it’s 100 degrees.

Beer and wine garden spotlights local products BY TAMIE MECK Staff Writer

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This Cherry Days, enjoy a variety of locallyproduced beverages at the Beer & Wine Garden at Paonia Town Park. “This year we’re helping to launch Paonia United Brewing Co.,” said Cherry Days 4-Ever beer and wine garden coordinator Sheree Fisher. Formerly Revolution Brewing, owners Kit and Mike DeJager will offer an IPA, a Porter, and an Amber Ale, all made in small batches. The garden will also feature beers from 4B’s Brewery, a small, family owned microbrewery at the foot of Grand Mesa in Cedaredge that taps into the family’s German heritage. Selections include Grand Mesa Blonde (a smooth blonde, lightly hopped beer), Highway 65 Amber, and Black Swede. “It’s a stout and it’s phenomenal,” said Fisher. Their products were featured at last fall’s Mountain Harvest Festival, said Fisher. “They were such a hit that I wanted them to experience Cherry Days.” It wouldn’t be Cherry Days without Big B’s hard ciders, including Cherry Daze. Created four years ago when Big B’s made its first Cherry Days Festival appearance, Cherry Daze is a

semi-sweet hard cider with a bold and refreshing apple taste. There’s also the amazingly crisp Lazy Daze Lemonade, “a perfect marriage between dry cider, sweet and tart lemonade,” and either the Orchard or Harvest Apple hard cider. This year’s featured wine is Rob Kimball’s 5680 Vineyards Cherry Wine. “His cherry wine is to die for,” said Fischer. Made with tart pie cherries, Kimball describes his cherry wine as “sweet.” Because it’s made in small batches and sells out quickly, “It’s just for summertime,” says Kimball. As Cherry Days beer and wine garden coordinator, Fischer takes copious notes on what works and what doesn’t, and listens to what people say. Based on past comments, the garden will also offer a Pinot Gris from Brent and Karen Helleckson’s Stone Cottage Cellars; and for red wine enthusiasts, Alfred Eames’ Collage, a blend of Cabernet Sauvignon, Cabernet Franc and Merlot grapes. Non-alcoholic beer is also available, “one of the little touches that came from feedback,” says Fisher. The Beer & Wine Garden is located near the

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gazebo stage and perfect for enjoying the many live acts that will be performing July 3 and 4. By law, alcohol must stay within the fenced perimeter. Anyone under 21 coming within the fenced area must be accompanied by an adult family member and may not consume alcohol. The garden has the right to refuse to serve anyone, and no silliness is allowed, said Fischer. “We have zero tolerance.”

Get your act together for July 4 talent show Can you sing? Dance? Tell jokes? Do magic tricks? “Show us what you’ve got,” said event organizer Maralyn Bloomer. Whatever your talent, you could be the winner of the $50 prize. Acts will be presented on the stage in Paonia Town Park Wednesday, July 4, between 5:30 and 6:30 p.m. Solo acts, vocal duets or dancing troupes — all are welcome! To sign up, or for more information, leave a message at 462-3145 or email maralynbloomer@hotmail. com.

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 visit PaoniaCherryDays.com or call Esther Kinser at 970-270-3127.

CHERRY DAYS

Delta County Independent

Wednesday, June 27, 2018

Cherry Days royalty to be crowned July 4 Coronation of royalty for the 72nd Cherry Days festival will be held July 4 at 12:15 p.m., at the Howard Berkman Stage in Paonia Town Park. The king and queen will each receive a $1,000 scholarship from the Cherry Days Committee. Other royalty nominees will each receive a check for $100. Candidates for Cherry Days queen are: Nora Dransfield Nora, the daughter of Tim and Lisa Dransfield, plans to study elementary education at the University of Northern Colorado. “For as long as I remember my actions and personality have been essentially shaped through my intense passion for working with children,” she wrote in her scholarship application. Her desire to teach was reinforced when she volunteered as an elementary aide. She said working with Paonia Elementary first and second graders taught her dedication, persistence, patience, initiative, leadership, organization, self-discipline and much more. “These qualities are exactly what the town of Paonia is all about,” she said. She vows to come back to the “beautiful” town of Paonia, to be part of the community and foster the minds of the future generation. “As I return to the warm and benevolent community I was lucky enough to be raised in, I only hope I can follow in the footsteps of each and every teacher that has taught me for the past 12 years and hopefully keep the legacy of love, generosity and friendship the town of Paonia has preserved. During high school, Nora volunteered with the Kids Pasta Project, Jamaica Outreach, Girls on the Run, and at the BMW rally. She was consistently named to the honor roll while also participating in cross-country, track and field, and the Delta County swim team. PHS teacher Kreszenze Kossler-Allen said it’s remarkable that a high school student with an incredibly challenging and academic load of her own takes the time to help elementary school kids learn their foundational skills, and she accomplishes this task with compassion and patience. Helene Sharer-Meneley Helene is the daughter of Donald Meneley and Sara Sharer and has lived in Paonia her entire life. “This community has raised me with the value that helping others brings purpose to one’s life,” she wrote in her scholarship application. “I should represent the town of Paonia during Cherry Days because this town has shaped who I am and I have tried to give back to it as much as it has given to me.” Lene plans to attend Fort Lewis College’s School of Engineering and become a computer engineer. Her career goal is to either start or work for a nonprofit organization, using computer programming to focus on the unmet needs of disadvantaged communities. PHS teacher Kreszenze Kossler-Allen commented on Lene’s outstanding capacities and consistently positive attitude. As co-president of the Student Council, she led her class in organizing and executiving a number of projects, demonstrating her strengths in people skills, organization, consistency, management and followthrough. “I’ve seen her manage difficult student and adult situations like a professional, a young lady dealing with complex circumstances in a manner

that demonstrates maturity and patience beyond her teenage years,” Kossler-Allen said. “Lene’s positive attitude and aptitude for finishing whatever she starts are unique characteristics that both reinforce her strong character and help her lead others in an effective way.” Lene was co-founder of Girls Who Code, a club for Paonia High School students. She also mentored two girls from the Class of 2022, and participated in Kids’ Pasta Project, high school swim team and Jamaica Outreach. During the summers she worked as a lifeguard and taught swim lessons. Tess Gore Tess, the daughter of Yancy and More Gore of Crawford, will attend Laramie County Community College in the fall. She plans to pursue a career in nursing, eventually using her degree to help better the local community. Being selected Cherry Days queen would be a great honor, she said, because she’s been attending Cherry Days since she was 3 years of age and has participated in the parade since 2006. “When I was younger, I became inspired to try out for Delta County Fair and Rodeo royalty because of Cherry Days royalty,” she said in her application. “Finally being able to represent Paonia is what I have looked forward to doing since I was young and being able to ride through the parade representing the town of Paonia would be a memorable experience.” Tess has been involved in her parents’ livestock operation from a young age, so the agricultural community is vitally important to her. She has accumulated extensive knowledge in livestock production, marketing, judging and other aspects of the industry. She is only the second person to have held the titles of fair junior princess, princess and queen. She has been in 4-H since 2008 and before then was involved in the Clover Buds. Through 4-H, she has held numerous leadership positions. During her first three years of high school she was also involved with FFA and had the opportunity to travel and compete in several areas. She helps out with the June Classic Jackpot, at the cattlemen’s banquet and at the National Western Stock Show. In addition she has been heavily involved in school and community service projects. “She has proven that she’s capable of juggling an intensive academic calendar, while serving her community in a number of opportunities,” said PHS principal Randal Palmer. Derek Holt Derek Holt, son of Don and Dee Holt, has his sights set on the University of Utah. He became interested in the basics of business at a young age, and plans to pursue a degree in marketing/ finance following a twoyear mission trip for his church. Holt is a lifelong resident of Paonia; his family has been part of the community for generations. His great-grandfather was the founder of Don’s Market, which remains in the family. Holt is a proud member of the state champion football and baseball teams, but is even prouder to have served the community as a cadet in the Paonia Fire Department. “Whether it’s a false alarm fire at 3 a.m. or a controlled burn that got out of hand, I have been there and helping alongside some of the greatest guys I know,” he said. “Yeah, I’ve had many athletic achievements like winning state in football and

baseball, and have also done well in school, but nothing beats the two years I have had keeping my community safe and being there for them as much as I could.” At school, Holt was senior class treasurer and a member of the Paonia Swing Choir. He was named to honor choirs and in 2016 had the lead role in the school musical. “He excels at every endeavor because he has drive and a strong work ethic, never giving up,” said Michael Jensen, STEM teacher. Holt was a teacher’s aide in his engineering class. “Although Derek’s success in projects are varied in math, science and technology, it is his work in learning the 3D printer and teaching others how to use it, that is the most admirable of his skills and attitude,” Jensen said. Jensen noted that Holt is a “tinkerer” who always has a project underway using discarded technology and gadgets. Jaden Miller Jaden Miller, the son of Christa Coats and Nate Miller, will attend Trinidad State Junior College to study gunsmithing. In addition to learning how to build, fix and manufacture guns, he anticipates gaining knowledge of shooting techniques. He says he takes a great deal of pride in his small town roots, and has always been willing to help out in whatever way he could. He has shoveled snow for the elderly, helped whitewash P hill, and participated in the Christmas food drive. At school, he participated in football, wrestling and baseball. During the summers he’s been employed by the Stirrup Bar Ranch in Crawford. Over the course of three years, his responsibilities have included fixing barbed wire fence, moving cows, using shop equipment, welding and operating large machines such as tractors, skid steers, semis and dump trucks. Slater Podgorny Slater is looking forward to the new people, new ideas and new places he will experience when he begins college this fall. Although he has not decided on a major, Slat-

Tess Gore

Nora Dransﬁeld

Helene Sharer-Meneley

Derek Holt

Jaden Miller

Slater Podgorny

er knows that he wants to enter a field that will allow him to work for the benefit of others. Teaching is especially appealing, he says, because he would be able to see his students develop into the people that institute change in the world. “Similarly, sports psychology would allow me to remain close to the sports I love while also helping people through difficulties,” he said. “Finally, both international affairs and political science would allow me to benefit others on the national and international level.” The son of Moni Slater, he served as student body president at PHS for the past two years. “Holding this position has made me realize that everything I do is a direct reflection of Paonia,” he said. “With that being said, whether I am wearing Paonia across my chest or not, I have done my best to act in a manner that best reflects the incredible culture of Paonia. Being a representative for the town of Paonia is something I would be proud to do not only at Cherry Days but also for the rest of my life.” Slater was an enthusiastic participant in all aspects of student life at PHS, language arts teacher Kreszenze Kossler-Allen noted. “Clearly stretched in all directions as student leader, AP stu-

dent and athlete, Slater still volunteers wherever he can,” she added, noting his contributions to Pink Night 2017. “Slater’s character is consistently strong,

his academic future is unmatched, and I can not think of a person with more potential in his future,” she concluded in her letter of recommendation.

Let us get your Carpets & Ducts in “Cherry Condition” ��

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B8 Wednesday, June 27, 2018

SPORTS

Delta County Independent

SPORTS June 27, 2018

www.deltacountyindependent.com

Former Delta athlete in USATF Championships BY WAYNE CRICK DCI Sports Editor

There seems to be a growing number of success stories for Delta County track athletes these past few months. Hotchkiss’ Katy Parsons and Jennifer Celis have demonstrated their success by sports staff writer Tamie Meck’s recent story of competition between the two Hotchkiss standouts running in the same heat in an 800m event at the college level. Add to that list of successful competitors the name of Skylyn Webb. Webb started her college career at Ft. Lewis in Durango and was playing basketball. Webb ended her basketball adventure for the Skyhawks and moved on to the University of Colorado-Colorado Springs where she has earned some impressive

credentials this past year while running track. On more than one occasion, Webb has been named Athlete of the Month for UC-Colorado Springs for her prowess in the 800m run. She has several meet wins for the Mountain Lions and was the 2018 D ll National Champion in the women’s 800m run with a time of 2:02.47. Webb was one of 32 competitors this past weekend in Des Moines, Iowa to vie for the 800m women’s title in the USA Track and Field Championships on the campus of Drake University. Her opening round run of 2:03.00 earned Webb a 10th-place qualifying berth in the 16-person field of the semifinals on June 22. Competition on Friday (June 22) was keen as

Webb finished the day in 15th-place after running a 2:03.04. According to Webb’s parents, Jim and Willyn, their daughter told them, “I had plenty left, but I got trapped and couldn’t get out.” Only the top eight runners from Friday’s two heats qualified to run in Sunday’s finals. Sunday’s 800m finals was closely contested between eight superb athletes. Adidas’ Ajee Wilson won the title with a time of 1:58.18. Four other runners finished the race under two minutes; Raevyn Rogers (Nike) 1:58.57, Ce’Aira Brown (HOKA NJNYTC) 1:58.65, Kaela Edwards (Adidas) 1:59.68 and Charlene Lipsey (Adidas) 1:59.95. With this season’s competiton completed, Webb

Plan ahead for Bulls N’ Broncs War show BY TAMIE MECK DCI Sports Writer

The annual Bulls N’ Broncs War happens this Saturday night at the North Fork Horse Patrol on Mathews Lane (at the railroad crossing). This year, $750 of added money will be added to each of the two main events. The evening also features 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 arena-side parking are accepted on a firstcome, first-served basis. Cost is $50 per vehicle, which includes four event tickets. By popular demand, the North Fork Horse Patrol Mud Volleyball tournament returns this July 4. Games begin at 3 p.m. The registration fee is $150 per team. Sameday registration opens at

2 p.m. Teams 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 arena-side parking or for more information, call Shane at 970261-2251 or Haillie at 208-309-1164.

looks to next year. A conversation with Webb’s parents confirmed their daughter’s goal of running again this coming year as she still has one year of elgibility remaining. After that, “She wants to turn pro when she’s finished,” noted Jim Webb. Knowing that Webb has just begun her quest in the 800m competition bodes well for the talented former Delta runner. Having run the 800m maybe 10 times indicates she will have a little time to hone her strategies and become stronger and better conditioned for the 2019 season.

Photo by Wayne Crick

UC-Colorado Springs’ Skylyn Webb (right) cruises to the 400m title in this April 24, 2016, ﬁle photo in Gunnison. Webb was the D ll women’s 800m National Champion in 2018 and competed in Des Moines, Iowa, for USATF honors June 21-24.

Cherry Days baseball tournament Saturday BY TAMIE MECK DCI Sports Writer

Registration is now open for the Cherry Days baseball tournament scheduled for June 30-July 1. All games are played at Volunteer Park, located off of Mathews Lane on Hayden Road. Now in its second year, the tournament doubles as a fundraiser for the Paonia High School wrestling program. The tournament was added to the Cherry Days schedule last year as a last-minute thought and marks a return of a past tradition of playing ball during the annual community celebration.

Organizer Nate Wiggins recalls playing softball during Cherry Days while growing up in Paonia. About 10 years ago, the tradition just stopped. Wiggins, head wrestling coach and assistant baseball coach at Paonia High School, said he and others managed to put it all together a few days before the Cherry Days weekend. “We just thought it’d be fun to add another event at Cherry Days,” said Wiggins. “It wouldn’t hurt to raise a little money for the school.” The Men’s Wood Bat tournament happens Saturday, June 30, and

the co-ed tournament (men use wood bat only) happens Sunday, July 1. Games begin at 8 a.m., with first-round losses determining gold and silver bracket teams. All games are time limited to one hour and each team is guaranteed at least three games. Cost is $250 per team, with a gold bracket payout of $500. While teams wait for their next games, they can compete in a time-killing corn hole tournament. For additional details contact Nate at wsc149@q.com or Eric at eneal@lightworksfiber. com.

Cherry Days 5k set for Saturday, June 30 BY TAMIE MECK DCI Sports Writer

The annual Cherry Days 5k run/walk happens Saturday, June 30. A Cherry Days tradition for well over a decade, the course begins and ends at Apple Valley Park. Registration is $35 for adults, $10 for ages 17 and under, with proceeds going to the Paonia High School cross country program. The course will be familiar to last year’s participants and is both

fast and stroller friendly. Runners will head east out of Apple Valley Park, south on Rio Grande, west on Third St., north on Delta Ave., west on Fifth St., north on Oak, east on the Black Bridge Road to a designated turnaround, then follow a slight variation back to the Apple Valley Park. Directions will be provided on the morning of the race. Awards will be presented in eight categories and all participants receive a

pair of commemorative PHS cross country team running socks. Registration forms are available at paoniacher rydays.com under the “Activities” tab, or at 6:30 a.m. on race day. If mailing registration forms, please mail no later than June 28 to ensure timely arrival. For more information call Brandy at 250-9793 or email brandysparks85@yahoo. com.

Photo by Tamie Meck

Mud volleyball returns to the North Fork on July 4. The event is a fundraiser for the North Fork Horse Patrol Scholarship Fund.

Photo by Tamie Meck

Photo submitted

The Cherry Days 5k fea- The team of Jeff Caldwell, Brandon Ravens, Dustin tures men and women’s Smith and Dave Carothers ﬁnished second in this competition. year’s Rotary Club Golf Tournament. Devil’s Thumb golf pro Ken Brown is on the right.

Photo submitted

First place in last weekend’s Rotary Club Golf Tournament at Devil’s Thumb was won by KC Carlson (pictured above) Photo by Tamie Meck and Logan Church who The annual Cherry Days Bulls N’ Broncs War happens this Saturday night at wasn’t available for the photo. the North Fork Horse Patrol. You don’t want to miss a minute of it.

Photo submitted

The team of Josh Applegate, Erec Kelly, Steve Stone and Jerry Sandoval won a playoff for third place in this year’s Rotary Club Golf Tournament at Devil’s Thumb.

SURFACE CREEK June 27, 2018

NEWS

Section

www.deltacountyindependent.com

Night on the Town is June 30 BY DON BENJAMIN Staff Writer

Pioneer Town’s annual 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 beer brats and hot dogs. There is free admission to all events for the public and one dollar off refreshments for members of the Surface Creek Historical Society. There will be honky-tonk piano and card tricks in the

saloon. A scavenger hunt, roaming cowboys, and a silent auction will round out the raucous evening. Live music provided by David and Tamara Hauze. For information call 970-856-7554. At other times Pioneer Town is open from Memorial 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 www.pioneertown.org.

Cedaredge celebrates its ‘independents’ Cedaredge businesses and citizens are encouraged to welcome the 4th of July with a bang as the town encourages shopping at locally-owned independent businesses. The shop-local campaign kicks off on July 1 and extends to July 7 with Thursday, July 5, designated as Shop Cedaredge Day. The Cedaredge Area Chamber of Commerce and the

Town of Cedaredge’s economic development department are collaborating with the American Independent Business Alliance (AMIBA) to celebrate National Independents Week July 1-7, to recognize the many valuable contributions that locally-owned businesses make to the community. Independents Week, now in its 15th year, celebrates the INDEPENDENTS TO C2

Libraries honor Rick Smith

Photo submitted

On the evening of Thursday, June 21, Cedaredge Library hosted an instrument-making workshop at Cedaredge Town Park in honor of Delta resident Rick Smith. Smith, a craftsman and artist, was scheduled to teach the workshop but passed away on June 6. Upon receiving news of Smith’s death, library staff decided to offer the workshop in his honor. Participants gathered in the shade of the Lions Pavilion for popsicles and the opportunity to make a variety of handmade instruments from everyday items. Library staff and volunteers provided demonstrations on how to make banjos from paper plates and rubber bands, ﬂutes from straws, and castanets from cardboard strips and bottle caps. Displayed on a picnic table amidst the supplies for creating handmade whistles was a photograph of Smith, along with one of his beautifully crafted guitars.

Cedaredge water issues draw a crowd BY DON BENJAMIN Staff Writer

An announced intention to move the town into a Stage II drought response drew a crowd of 50 citizens to last week’s regular meeting of the Cedaredge Board of Trustees. Citizens had received a postcard from the town announcing new temporary “financial incentives” to encourage water conservation. Under Stage II measures, temporary water rate increases and restricted times for outdoor watering will go into effect this month. The sale and use of fireworks are also banned. Several people signed up to address the trustees during constituent time. Among those commenting were Gretchen Atkinson, Barb Klein, Shirley Bauer, Doris McGuire, Jim Leser, Bob Wear, Bob Page, Cliff Brave, Carol Kern, Ginny Warner, David Craig, Michael Meskel, Debbie Griffith, Peggy Baxter and Norma Miller. Some constituents wanted assurances from the trustees that the measures were indeed temporary and others questioned the fairness of temporary rate increases for multiunit dwellings. Out-of-town water users objected to their proposed rate increases verses increases proposed for in-town customers. Other citizens suggested that the rate increases were evidence that the town

Photo by Don Benjaminr

Fifty Cedaredge citizens attended the town’s board of trustees’ regular meeting on June 21. The trustees and their constituents discussed plans to move the town to a Stage II drought response. The trustees voted to establish temporary water rate increases as a ﬁnancial incentive to encourage water conservation. was seeking revenue. The trustees responded that the resolution declaring the increases specifically states that Stage II will “remain in effect until November 1, 2018, unless rescinded by (subsequent) resolution.” As for multi-unit dwellings, Mayor Gene Welch stated that the resolution makes provision for such users and that he and Greg Brinck, town administrator, are continuing to discuss how to deal with special circumstances presented by multi-units. The town is reaching out to multi-unit users and the mayor offered to meet with representatives of multi-unit accounts as needed. The trustees noted that

out-of-town rates differ from in-town rates because those dwelling outside city limits do not pay town property taxes which support town infrastructure including water treatment. Some out-of-town constituents responded that they pay more for water but do not receive the same level of waterline services as in-town users when it comes to repairs and maintenance. As for the idea that the town will make money from the increased rates, the trustees responded that the resolution is not being enacted to produce revenue. “This is a drought situation plain and simple,” said Mayor Welch. “This action has nothing to do with revenue.

The temporary rate increases are put in place specifically as a financial incentive to influence citizens to conserve water.” The trustees were asked if they had considered alternative methods of encouraging conversation such as educating the public to wise water use or setting up a system to allow residents to water on alternating days depending on their addresses. Trustees responded that they have been including water conservation guidelines in the monthly town newsletter distributed with water/sewer bills since mid-April when they adopted Stage I of the drought response plan. They have also publicized suggestions in the Delta County Independent. And the trustees said they are convinced that alternating days and other such approaches are less likely to conserve water than the temporary rate increases which encourage all citizens to reduce their water use and target high volume users with financial incentives to use less. The goal of the rate increases is to have the town reduce its water use by 40 percent. Scott Lock, co-director of town

public works, told the assembled audience that providing domestic water is the town’s number one priority. The winter snow was 41 percent of normal and consequently none of the reservoirs the town relies on are full. Contrary to popular belief, Cedaredge does not draw from every reservoir on Grand Mesa. The town gets its water from a limited number of reservoirs and without immediate conservation measures, water reserves will be in jeopardy. Citizens who use up to 10,000 gallons monthly will see no increase in cost but they are nevertheless encouraged to reduce their use to less than their usual amount. Any use by single-dwelling users above 10,000 gallons is subject to a higher rate per 1,000 gallons. Multi-unit dwellings are subject to a different set of rates. Businesses such as the local laundromat and carwash that are dependent upon potable water to provide their services will not be subject to increased rates. Following constituent input, the trustees voted to adopt Resolution No. 15-2018, Stage II Drought Emergency and Response Plan Declaration. The resolution sets the rates shown in the table below. It also includes the following provisions: • Prohibit outdoor watering between the hours of 10 a.m. and 6 p.m. Anyone watering during the prohibited periods can be cited. First offense receives a warning; second offense is a $100 fine; and a third offense receives $200 fine and a summons to municipal court. • Prohibit the sale and use of fireworks. Anyone selling or using fireworks can be cited. First offense receives a $100 fine; second offense is a $500 fine and a summons to municipal court.

Town of Cedaredge Temporary Water Rates Effective June 25 - Nov. 1, 2018

Grand re-opening

Photo by Don Benjamin

A large crowd was on hand to celebrate the ribbon cutting as the Surface Creek Animal Shelter ofﬁcially re-opened its renovated building last Saturday. Holding the ribbon were Deb Fairchild, vice president of the nonproﬁt shelter board and Larry Dumler, president. Aaliyah Huberd of Cedaredge did the cutting. Money to complete the work was raised through a combination of grants and individual contributions and none more touching than Aaliyah who donated her birthday money to the cause. Not pictured but also participating in the ceremony were Bruce Joss who served as master of ceremonies; Dottie Whitlock, Bruce Hovde and Cindy Starr who represented the Cedaredge Area Chamber of Commerce; and Pastor Joe Agne, who conducted the blessing of the building and the animals.

All accounts other than exemptions below Gallons used In Town Out of Town (thousands) per 1,000 gallons per 1,000 gallons 1-10 $2.97* $4.45* 11-20 $5.25 $7.75 21-30 $7.50 $11.00 30+ $15.00 $22.25 Multi-unit accounts (more than three residents sharing one tap/account) 1-6 $2.97* 7-12 $5.25 11-18 $7.50 19+ $15.00 * Regular rate/unchanged

C2 Wednesday, June 27, 2018

SURFACE CREEK NEWS

Delta County Independent

Independents

Photo by Cindy Starr

Shelley Rae performs

Local musician Shelley Rae Korntved (right) joined Erik Stucky (far left) and David Starr in the inaugural performance at the Grand Mesa Arts & Events Center. On June 28 she’ll sing and play guitar at the Chapel of the Cross in Cedaredge at 7 p.m.

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 Cedaredge Town Park will be bustling with vendors, live music, events and activities for the whole family. Vendor spaces are still available; contact town hall for more information or for an application.

“Bottom line, in so week is also a fantastic can spend just $10 more FROM PAGE C1 entrepreneurial spirit many ways, our local busi- time to try out one of the at a Surface Creek busithat keeps the local and nesses are the lifeblood of new restaurants or shops ness and start a chain national economies tick- our community,” Collins we have in the Surface reaction of community said. “The best way to Creek.” support.” She added that ing along. “There is data avail- several businesses will “During this week, we maintain the health of the celebrate our indepen- Surface Creek is really to able that shows that if offer in-store promotions dence as a nation but we embrace the shop local every family in the U.S. on Thursday, July 5 as a also celebrate the entre- ideology. We hope Nation- spent just an extra $10 way to celebrate National preneurial spirit and al Independents Week is a month at a locally- Independents Week. Be sure to check-out freedom that is embod- a reminder for consum- owned independent busiied by our independent ers to do more of their ness instead of a national the July 4th issue of the businesses,” said Alisha shopping locally while chain, over $9.3 billion DCI — also a proud famKomives, executive direc- also celebrating and hon- would be directly returned ily-owned, local indeoring the hard work and to the economy,” Komives pendent business — for tor of the chamber. “It’s a time to reflect dedication of our locally- added. “During this week, special events, discounts, on the importance of eco- owned businesses. This we hope the community and coupons. nomic democracy and community self-determination by celebrating the nation’s locally owned independent businesses and the stake each citizen has in shaping their hometown’s future,” said AMIBA director Jennifer Rockne. During this week, organizers encourage the community to shop Cedaredge and the Surface Creek Valley first. “If it’s been a while since you’ve visited the retail shops, restaurants and service businesses the Surface Creek Valley has to offer, we invite you to reacquaint yourself with the amazing selection available here,” said Mitchell Gronenthal, Photo by Don Benjamin president of the chamber, himself an independent Ryder Porter and his mother Layne Booco circle the ﬁnal obstacle in the sevenbusiness owner of Reve year-old and under lead line barrel riding competition. After four weeks of Portraits. “Independent gymkhana events at the Surface Creek Saddle Club, Ryder has accumulated businesses help give the the highest point total in his age category. community its distinct personality, and this is a great opportunity to celebrate our great independent businesses that exemplify the uniqueness of Cedaredge,” he said. There are many reaMelinda Katchur, secA gymkhana is held p.m. The arena is located sons to keep your hardearned dollars circulat- retary/treasurer of the every Wednesday eve- at 24224 Grand Mesa ing in your hometown Surface Creek Saddle ning throughout the sum- Drive in Cedaredge. Volunteers are always community, explained Club, has announced the mer with the exception of Kami Collins, the eco- point totals for gymkhana the Fourth of July. Gates needed. To volunteer, to nomic development coor- events through June 20. A open at 5 p.m. with con- join the Saddle Club, or dinator for the Town of gymkhana features horse testant sign-up from 5:30 for more information, visit Cedaredge. “We know and rider activities which to 6:30 p.m. Competition the club’s Facebook page that each dollar spent in demonstrate equestrian begins at 6:45 p.m. and or online at www.surface a local, independently- skills including barrel generally ends around 9 creeksaddleclub.org. owned business returns racing, pole bending, flag three times more money races, and a variety of events. Riders come to the local economy than7 &fun 7 & Under Lead Line Under Lead Line a dollar spent in a chain from throughout Delta Tot County and elsewhere in or online,” she said. TheContestant Contestant Name 06/27 05/30 Name 05/30 06/06 06/13 06/20 07/11 06/06 07/18 06/13 07/25 06/20 08/01 06/27 Pts 07/11 Colorado to compete for 40 Ryder37Porter36 multiplier effect createdRyder 38 40 37 36 Porter 38 151 points, and prizes. by spending locally gener-Jacefun, Medill 40 36 35 36 40 Medill 36 35 Jace 36 147 Gymkhana ridersxcom- 17 Blaize16Peterson ates lasting impact on theBlaize Peterson x 17 16 24 24 57 in five age categories prosperity of local orga-Addipete Carpenter x x 10 7 Carpenter x x Addi 10 7 17 from seven-yearnizations and residents.Yoniranging 10 x x 0 Vanderlaan 10 x Yoni Vanderlaan x 0 10 to adult. 7 & Under Solo Small businesses donate7 &old-and-under Under Solo more than twice as much Seven and under contesTot tants either Contestant Name 06/27 05/30 Name ride with 05/30 an 06/06 06/13 06/20 07/11 06/06 07/18 06/13 07/25 06/20 08/01 06/27 Pts 07/11 per sales dollar to localContestant adult leading the 38 horse 29 Easton 38 29 29 38 Zeldenthuis 29 Zeldenthuis 38 134 non-profits, events, youthEaston orGreenhalgh ride solo. Competitors Greenhalgh 38 20 38 37 38 20 Kash38 37 133 organizations and teamsKash 32 32 24 14 Larson points toward 32 32 Chessa 24 Larson 14 102 accumulate compared to big busi-Chessa 19 32 23 16 19 at 32 Quinnlan 23 Price 16 90 local Price prizes awarded nesses. Local businessesQuinnlan Brylee Peterson 13 26 12 22 Brylee Peterson 13 26 12 22 73 the end of the gymkhana also tend to be more open Lucero10 6 5 12 10 Luceroand they also6earn 5 Jayla12 33 season to carrying goods craftedJayla Gracie0 Kissner 22 x 0 0 Gracie Kissner 22 x 0 22 points to qualify for other by local artisans, crafters x x 6 13 Carlirodeo Hammer x Carli Hammer 6 13 19 competitions. x and food producers.

Gymkhana riders post early series point totals

Tatum Lujon

8-13 yrs

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McCollum 31 Kacie10 36

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TELEVISION LISTINGS

Delta County Independent

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SURFACE CREEK NEWS

Delta County Independent

Wednesday, June 27, 2018

What’s happening at your library? The Delta County Libraries offer many educational and entertaining activities and events for you and your family to enjoy. If you want to know what else your library is offering, please contact the library or visit the Delta County Libraries website at www.delta libraries.org. Cedaredge Storytimes. Storytimes for babies, tots and preschoolers are Thursdays starting at 10:30 a.m. Mad Lib Lyric Generator. Teens are invited to Cedaredge Library to try out a lyric generator. Like a Mad Lib, teens will enter in a little information — a few words here and there — and voila! It generates a full-length song with (often hilarious) lyrics. June 26-30 at Cedaredge Library. Family Musical Scavenger Hunt. Bring the entire family to embark on a musical scavenger hunt around Cedaredge! Visit the Cedaredge Library to pick up your map and then search for the musical instruments around town. July 3-7 during library hours. June StoryWalk®. The June StoryWalk® book on the Surface Creek Trail is “The Man with the Violin” by Kathy Stinson. Dylan is swept away by the music he hears in the subway station ... a man playing a violin. As crowds of oblivious people hurry past, Dylan wants to stop and listen. Find out how the story goes on the Surface Creek Trail in June. Then, visit the Cedaredge Library for activities and

a take-home craft related to the story. Crafts Group. Crafters meet every Tuesday at 10 a.m. to share ideas and show and tell. Tech Soup Saturday. Bring your devices and your questions. Our expert “techies” will do their best to answer your questions. Every Saturday from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. Genealogy. Who’s Who in Whoville? Find out who you really are! The first Friday of every month from 10:30 a.m. to noon. Crawford Storytimes. Storytimes for babies, tots and preschoolers are Thursdays starting at 10:30 a.m. Contact the library at 399-7783 for details. Make a Harp Maker Space. Kids are invited to the Crawford Library to make a harp out of provided materials. July 5-7 during library hours. Scrapbooking. Join friends at Crawford Library and get your pictures and other treasured items in your scrapbook. The first Monday of every month at 11 a.m. Tech Help. Librarians will be available to help you with questions and problems about computers or mobile devices. Wednesday through Saturday by appointment. Contact the library at 399-7783 for details. Delta Storytimes. Storytimes for babies, tots and preschoolers are Wednesdays starting at 10:30 a.m. Contact the library at 874-9630 for details. Soundtrack of My Life Maker Space. Did you miss the program? No worries! Teens

are invited to the Delta Library to create a CD soundtrack that represents their life. Bring your library card for free music downloads using Freegal! All other supplies provided. June 2128 during library hours. Musical Instrument Maker Space. Kids are invited to Delta Library to create an instrument to play and take home! All supplies provided. June 21-27 during library hours. Echolocation and the Science of Sound. Kids are invited to the library for a program on echolocation and the science of sound. Explore sound experiments and learn how bats and dolphins use echolocation to communicate. Thursday, June 28, at 2 p.m. Patriotic Family Scavenger Hunt. Bring the entire family to Delta Library to embark on a patriotic song scavenger hunt! Pick up the first clue at Delta Library and then work together to find the remaining clues around the city of Delta and piece together the patriotic song. July 2-7 during library hours. Genealogy One-onOne. Get the help you need researching your genealogy in this ongoing class taught by Mickey Watts. Meets the second and fourth Monday of each month at 5 p.m. Talk & Tangle Yarn. This is a group of knit and crochet enthusiasts who get together to talk and work on their individual projects. Anyone is welcome to join. Mondays starting at 5:30 p.m. Hotchkiss Storytimes. Baby, tot and preschooler sto-

Photo by Don Benjamin

A ﬁeld day for young and old

Youngsters visiting from Grand Junction got a ﬁrst-hand look last weekend as radio operator Steve Grewe from Cedaredge sent and received Morse code messages. The Montrose Amateur Radio Club, including members from Delta County, participated in the American Radio Relay League (ARRL) ﬁeld day held on Sunset Mesa in Montrose. The group tallied over 1,900 contacts during the weekend event reaching as far as Canada and Hawaii with one contact in Europe. The annual national event connects ham radio operators throughout North America and demonstrates the value of amateur radio in providing alternative communication in times of emergency when phones or other devices are disabled. In Colorado, amateur radio operators also assist the National Weather Service as “sky-watch spotters” who monitor severe weather plus they provide daily reports of precipitation and temperature.

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rytimes are Wednesdays starting at 10:30 a.m. Contact the library at 399-7781 for details. Color to Music. Adults are invited to Hotchkiss Library to relax, listen to music, and express themselves through coloring. We will discuss how each song makes us feel different colors. Wednesday, June 27, at 3 p.m. Musical Scavenger Hunt. Bring the entire family to the Hotchkiss Library and embark on a scavenger hunt around the town of Hotchkiss. Pick up the first clue at Hotchkiss Library and see if you can find all the remaining clues! July 2-5 during library hours. Paonia Storytimes. Baby, tot and preschooler storytimes are Tuesdays starting at 10:30 a.m. Contact library at 399-7881 for details. Musical Instrument Maker Space. Kids are invited to the Paonia Library to create a musical instrument out of a variety of materials. Tin can drums, handmade maracas and more! June 14-28 during library hours. Musical Chalk Art Maker Space. Teens are invited to Paonia Library to make musical chalk art! Select a section of pavement and create your masterpiece. Watch it grow as other artists add to it. June 22-July 13 at Paonia Library. Never Play Music Right Next to the Zoo. Kids are invited to the Paonia Library for a read-along concert. Zoo animals take over the bandstand in this musical story. Thursday, June 28, at 2 p.m. Name That Tune Scavenger Hunt. Bring the entire family to

Paonia Library to embark on a musical note scavenger hunt through the town of Paonia! Pick up your first clue at Paonia Library and see if you can discover the song by finding additional clues. Winners can collect a

small prize from Paonia Library upon completion. July 3-7 during library hours. Tech Café. Tech assistance for all ages and skill levels. Every Wednesday from 2 to 4 p.m.

Photo by Don Benjamin

Pitching in to help

Members of the Cedaredge High School girls’ volleyball team and two young helpers showed up at the Grand Mesa Arts & Events Center (GMAEC) on June 18 to fold and load 200 chairs used for the center’s inaugural weekend concerts. The girls were following in the footsteps of the CHS football team which pitched in earlier as players Toby Waddell and David Lopez and coach Dante Markley removed tables and set up chairs. Chairs and tables were loaned by the Cedaredge Community United Methodist Church, the Surface Creek Valley Lions Club, and the Cedaredge Volunteer Fire Department. It took the enthusiastic volleyball players about 15 minutes to complete their mission. Shown front to back are: Jackson and Brooklyn Dunbar (children of CHS volleyball coach Heather Dunbar), Baylee Harris, Emma Stumpf, Reganne McIntire, Savannah Baldozier, Hannah Carlson, Karlie Hanson, Elizabeth Gilmore, Megan Jenkins, Tristy Keller, Paige McGovern, Makayla Kehmeier, Ellison Black, Kammie Henderson, Courtney Freeman and Kimmy Milholland.

C6 Wednesday, June 27, 2018

CHURCH

Delta County Independent

Museum specialist sheds light on the Dead Sea Scrolls Community members are invited to a special presentation on the Dead Sea Scrolls to take place Saturday, July 21, at the Delta LDS Ward build-

ing at 1679 Pioneer Road. The presentation begins at 6:30 p.m. and will feature Jennifer Moss Logan, content specialist from the Denver Museum

Veterans invited to church barbecue In honor of veterans, and to celebrate “God and Country,” Bible Baptist Church in Olathe will host a barbecue for veterans and their families Sunday, July 1, beginning at 10:30 a.m. The church is located at 112 Main Street, Olathe. Although the VFW and American Legion in the Delta and Olathe areas have been notified, some vets may not be aware of

this event. Should this be the case, vets are encouraged to call the church at 808-1021 and leave a message with the number of family members who plan on attending. The church wants to be sure there is plenty of food available. In addition, Pastor Gabe Skillo wants to let everyone know that any vet who attends will receive a gift.

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of Nature and Science. Learn about the early Israelites in Canaan, who wrote the Scrolls, what they contain, and how they fit into a vast, shared cultural history of the Abrahamic faiths. The Dead Sea Scrolls exhibition is on display at the Denver Museum of Nature and Science

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

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University in the United Kingdom. She has served as educator for many temporary exhibitions, including Genghis Khan, Real Pirates, Silk Road, Vikings, Mummies, and now Dead Sea Scrolls. She is also coordinator for the museum’s popular historical enactor program.

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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. Her wide range of influ-

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ences 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. She hopes her words will inspire conversation to bring folks together.

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Jennifer Moss Logan is an educator and coordinator for nature and culture gallery programs. She joined the museum staff in 2000 to define and develop programming for the permanent exhibition Space Odyssey. Moss Logan earned her bachelor’s degree in astrophysics at Cardiff

Shelley Rae’s songs inspire conversation

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through Sept. 2. The Dead Sea Scrolls represent the oldest known copies of the Hebrew Bible (Old Testament) ever discovered. Found in 1947 by a Bedouin goat herder, these precious documents have been hidden away in the caves near the Dead Sea for some 2,000 years.

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Classifieds

June 27, 2018

Real Estate

D SECTION

Delta County Independent

BUY • SELL • TRADE

Real Estate

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DCI DEADLINES

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

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Thank you for your cooperation

Yard Sales MOVING SALE AT 800 Leon Street on Friday 29th and Saturday 30th from 8-3. Couch, desks, tables, cameras, books, coats, games, movies, CDs, tools, electronics, decor, lamps, beekeeping equipment, and a variety of household goods, including antiques (dealers welcome!). (1x26)

GIANT BENEFIT RUMmage sale. Westminster Hall, Presbyterian Church, �� 135 W. 4th Street, Delta. �� Friday and Saturday, June 29 and 30. Friday, 8 to 5; Saturday, 8 to 12. Proceeds go to the King’s Table soup Mobile Recreational kitchen. Donations from Homes Vehicles over 20 families. Furniture, clothing from newborn to 4X adult sizes, small appli12X56; 2/3 BEDROOMS, 2005 BORN FREE 26’ ances, tools, books, decora1 bath in quiet Cedaredge RSB motor home for sale by tive items, kids’ bikes, lots park. Unique home with owner. Clean as a whistle, of treasures. Don’t miss it! real wood paneling on walls never smoked into/pets, (1x26) and ceilings. Desperate din- was our baby! 970-921- YARD SALE NORTH OF ing/bedroom with murphy 5480. (4x24) Cedaredge. June 28th and bed. Built in hutches and 29th. 19850 2325 Road. dressing areas. Includes WANT TO MAKE A QUICK Lots of antiques, collectsale, advertise in the Delta adjustable bed and washer/ ibles, and a few tools: Delta dryer. $12,000. 856-7800; County Independent's Clas- Wood Lathe (12 inch varisifieds. Call 874-4421 303-917-2844. (2x26) able speed), Ryobi Band Saw with new belts & Kreg Router Table. Hardwood and antique wood scraps. (1x26) ��

For Sale

For Sale Help Wanted ESTABLISHED LANDscape company is seeking help for landscaping position. Experience is helpful but not necessary. Valid driver’s license is needed. Position is full time seasonal. Background and driving record checks will be done. Pick up an application at 20143 Austin Rd.,a Austin. (1x26)

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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) STORE RETAIL MERCHandiser. Seasonal Project Based Work, Flexible Schedules. Apply today at www.matchmg.com/ careers to be a retail merchandiser. Great Hourly Pay! (4x26)

Advertise

today in the DCI! Call 874-4421

for your personal ad rep.

Help Wanted

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Help Wanted

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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) HELP WANTED: FARM laborers also fruit stand retail. 323-5116. (6x25)

WANTED: QUALIFIED wait staff and experienced line cooks. Apply in person. 130 W. Main. Cedaredge. SEEKING PARAPROFES- Lost Mesa Grill. (2x26) sionals/teachers to work with children who have THE TOWN OF PAONIA cognitive delays in Delta Police Department is acceptCounty. Must be willing ing applications. Inquire at: to learn, pass background 214 Grand Avenue, Paonia check, and have reli- or 970-527-4822. (1x26) able transportation. Go to https://www.otrbehavior. DO YOU HAVE A HOUSE com/career-opportunities to or apartment for rent? Get results through the DCI learn more. (4x26) Classifieds.

Search the classifieds for Jobs!

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D2 Wednesday, June 27, 2018 Help Wanted

CLASSIFIEDS

Help Wanted

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Help Wanted

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ADVERTISE 874-4421

looking for new employees?

Classified Ads are a good buy. Call 874-4421.

Miscellaneous

Colorado Statewide �� Network

�� To see the RFP, go to��

Buy a 25-word statewide �� across the state of Colorado for �� 303-571-5117

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) THE DELTA COUNTY Independent runs these items as a public service free of charge for non-profit organizations, if no fees are charged. However, each group is asked to please keep them current by calling 874-4421. YOU CAN QUIT. WE CAN help. Colorado Tobacco Quitline offers free, confidential assistance. Call 1800-QUIT-NOW. 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 Valley in order to contact them and show our support. Send addresses to American Legion Post 97, PO Box 277, Paonia, CO 81428 or call 527-6252. PARENTS FREE! INFORMation and referrals to licensed child care providers, call Bright Futures Child Care Resource and Referral, 1-877-728-5613. SUPPORT THE DELTA Public Library. Give a gently used book in the Downstairs Book Store. FOSTER GRANDPARENT Program enriches the lives of senior volunteers while improving the education of children with special needs. Volunteers, 55 and older, needed to assist in class rooms tutoring and mentoring children. Low-income volunteers may qualify for a stipend. Teachers in Delta area class rooms request "Grandparents" to come in and work with students who need the extra help to achieve their best. For information on how you can use your talents to help kids call Tanya at 298-9091. PARENTS — FREE information and referrals for licensed child care providers. Call Bright Futures Child Care Resource & Referral at 877-728-5613. COLORADO QUITLINE IS a free, confidential telephone coaching service for anyone calling from a Colorado area code. With QuitLine, tobacco users can receive free supplies of the nicotine patch as they work with trained coaches who create a personalized quit plan just for them. To contact the QuitLine, call 1-800QUIT-NOW (1-800-784-8669) or visit www.coquitline.org.

Miscellaneous

To place a 25-word COSCAN Network ad in 91 Colorado newspapers for only $300, contact your local newspaper or call Colorado Press Association Network at 303-571-5117. �� Cash for Mineral Rights ��± SF �� Call:�� Write: �� Email: �� Colorado Press Network

Delta County Independent

CLASSIFIEDS WORK! DELTA COUNTY

INDEPENDENT 401 Meeker St., Delta • 874-4421

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ALZHEIMER'S ASSOCiation Caregivers' Support Group, Delta. Hospice and Palliative Care of Western Colorado, Grand Mesa Oncology Center, 1501 E. 3rd Street, Tuesdays at 2 p.m.

THE ABRAHAM CONNECtion homeless shelter, located at 480 Silver St., Delta, offers emergency overnight shelter and food to men, women and families in the Delta area midOctober- April. Call us at 970-773-8290 to make a IF YOU THINK YOU referral, or for informahave a drinking problem... tion on how to volunteer Alcoholics Anonymous or donate. www.Delta can help. There are weekly A b r a h a m C o n n e c t i o n . AA meetings throughout org. the North Fork area and beyond. For meeting times HOSPITAL VOLUNTEERS and locations call AA at 970- Wanted! Delta County 245-9649 or 888-333-9649. Memorial Hospital needs Or go to the website www. hospital volunteers. Days aa-westerncolorado.org. and hours are flexible. There Alcoholics Anonymous can are currently openings help! in the ER, Oncology, Gift Shop and some additional IF YOU KNOW A MILI- areas. If you are interested, tary or veteran family who please contact Volunteer is struggling, encourage Coordinator, Barbara Hall at them to call our toll-free 250-2105 for an application. Military and Veteran Family Help line at (800) 314-4200. FREE DIAPERS FOR UP This free service offers to one year! Pregnant information, creates con- women in Delta County can nections and gives hope to now get help to quit smokstruggling families. It can ing and get something they even be a family's first step can really use after their to moving to the National baby arrives — free diapers. Home. And it's all possible Healthy moms have healthy because of your generous babies. Enroll in the Baby & support! Me Tobacco Free program today. Contact the Delta THE KINGS TABLE SOUP County Health Department Kitchen needs egg cartons. at 874-2165 or your local If you have any to give physician. please call 250-6637 and we will pick up. SUPPORT THE DELTA Library. Give a gently used DOMESTIC VIOLENCE book in the Downstairs Support Group for Adults Book Store. and Children: Every Wednesday in Delta from WELCOME RETURNING 5-7 p.m. there will be a free Veterans, Post 9221 VFW support group for adults meets at 5:00 p.m. on the whose lives have been 4th Thursday of each month impacted by domestic vio- in Cedaredge. To find out lence and a separate group how to participate in profor children at the same moting patriotism and time. Please call 970-874- assisting veterans, contact 4941 to sign up. Wayne Hamrick, (970) 2501180. WANNA PLAY A ROUND? Golf with a fun group of AARP DRIVER SAFETY ladies. Two membership Course. Save on insurance, options available. Sign up keep up on newer traffic at www.cedaredgeladies laws, learn defensive drivgolf.com. Get to know us ing techniques. For details on Facebook at “cedar and schedule contact John edgeladiesgolfclub” Loring (970) 856-6924 or (970) 424-1778. ALCOHOLICS ANONYmous meets Thursdays at 7 HOTCHKISS-CRAWFORD p.m. Friends of Bill W. Club. Historical Museum. Winter 897 Palmer Street, Delta. hours, Saturdays 1-4 p.m. $3 admission or free to CO FATHER’S NETWORK- members. Come see our dedicated to providing museum at 2nd & Hotchkiss community and education Streets in Hotchkiss. 872to fathers of special needs 3780. kids. Meets twice monthly on the 1st Saturday at 11 CHECK OUT THE BOOK a.m. and the 3rd Monday store at the Delta Library. at 6:30 p.m. - 511 E. 10th St, You'll find a great selection Delta. See our website for of paperbacks at reasonable more details: www.codads. prices. org IF YOU LOVE BOOKS, AL-ANON AND ALATEEN: you will love the Downstairs Hope and help for families Bookstore in the basement and friends of alcoholics of the Delta Library. meets in Delta: Al-Anon and ANONYAlateen, Tuesdays at 7:30 NARCOTICS pm, St. Luke’s Episcopal mous meets at 9th and Church, 145 W. 5th St., con- Palmer, Delta, Mondays and tact Elizabeth 970-874-9832 Fridays at 8 p.m. or Shirley 970-323-5067. AHELP!!! KEEP THE CARING FOR CARE- animal population under givers, C4C - support- control, and SAVE an aniing hearts that care. Open mal's life. Adopt your new to ANY caregiver. Meets cat or dog from the Delta monthly in Delta, 2nd County Humane Society. Tuesday at 11 a.m. - 511 E. Adoption fee is minimal. Call 874-2149. 10th St, Delta.

THE DELTA COUNTY Democratic Party invites you to visit their Facebook page for announcements, information and intelligent discussion of issues. You are not alone! Contact www.facebook.com/pages/ AL-ANON: HOPE AND CO-Delta-County-Democrat help for families and friends of alcoholics meets s/109082339170167. in Cedaredge: Al-Anon, WOMEN ONLY AA MEET- Thursdays, 8 pm, Wick Hall ings, Delta, Saturdays, 11:00 behind First Baptist Church, a.m., at St. Luke's Episcopal 370 W. Main St., contact Church, 5th & Palmer (back Mary M. 970-856-6123 or door). Jim 970-874-7855.

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Public Service

THERE IS A VFW MEETING on the first Monday of each month. At 6 p.m. there is a potluck and the meeting is at 7 p.m. at the First Baptist Church, 1250 Pioneer Rd., Delta. For further information, call 874-8172 Jim Baker, Quartermaster.

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PUBLIC NOTICES

Delta County Independent

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Wednesday, June 27, 2018

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SERVICE DIRECTORY

Delta County Independent

Wednesday, June 27, 2018

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LICENSED • INSURED ALEX MEHDER HOTCHKISS, CO

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D6 Wednesday, June 27, 2018

B A C K P A G E

BACK PAGE

Delta County Independent

Life is an adventure

Photo submitted

Jenna’s friend Cathy Smith, left, visited her in 2004 when Jenna was driving a tour bus at Grand Canyon National Park in Arizona.

Photo by Annette Brand

Jenna created this wooden vessel on her lathe and describes it as an urn for cremains.

Photo by Annette Brand

Jenna demonstrates her skills at shooting pool in her basement pool room.

BY ANNETTE BRAND Staff Writer

enna Bemis lives in Orchard City atop a ridge from which she has a 360-degree view of the world surrounding her. A stroll through her interestingly decorated home speaks of a professional decorator having put everything in place. Jenna says, “I owe it all to my friend Izetta Hansen. Izetta came in, looked at all the items I had collected from my time in various places. It was Izetta who knew how to display the mementoes that were important to me from different locations and experiences. “I can still hear her saying, ‘This clock must go here.’ And, again, looking at an empty space on a narrow wall, then across the wall at what I had already hung, saying ‘This is the place for these,’ holding up to the narrow wall a tall frame with a series of photos that told a story. “I couldn’t have done it without Izetta,” she said. Jenna was born in Akron and grew up on her parents’ ranch there. In 1958 her dad bought a dairy on 2100 Road in Orchard City. He sold it to the Hartig family in 1966. Jenna graduated high school while her family lived in Orchard City and went to beauty college in Denver. She said, “You have to work a year as a beautician before you can own your own shop. I found an opening at a beauty shop in Rifle and worked there for a year. Then I bought a shop in Craig and was there for 18 years.” She moved to Cedaredge in 1989. Jenna has a sense of adventure, and probably has had from the time she was born. From Cedaredge Jenna

Photo submitted

Garry Bemis, Jenna’s late husband, stands by one of his favorite antique cars, a 1929 Model A Ford Roadster with a rumble seat. It is called a Roadster because there are no windows in the doors.

Photo submitted

Jenna stands before the tour bus she drove at Denali National Park in Alaska.

Photo by Annette Brand

On the wall to Jenna’s left is a collection of clocks made from timing gears which she made during her time in Prescott. She is holding a more current Broncos clock. went to visit her sister, Mary Belleville, in Phoenix. Phoenix was hot and Jenna checked out Chino Valley. A member of the Prescott Car Club heard that Jenna made clocks and asked if she could make clocks out of old car parts because he wanted to give them as trophies to drivers who won races. Jenna’s clocks were made from fan blades, hubcaps, timing gears, saw blades, rear view mirrors, headlights and other parts of cars. Jenna began to make other clocks, and she sold them out of the beauty shop where she worked. During the summer of 1995, Jenna worked as a cook in Denali National Park in Alaska. At Denali she observed women driving the 40-foot tour busses, which seat 56 people. Driving a bus appealed to Jenna, so she returned to Prescott Valley, earned her CDL license and drove a school bus in Prescott. For the summer of 1999, Jenna secured a position driving a tour bus in Ketchikan, Alaska, providing her riders with details of what they were seeing as the tour progressed. She had tried to learn to fly an airplane, taking lessons from Don Geddes in Crawford, but she hadn’t earned her license. In her free time at Ketchikan she went to the airport and if there was an unfilled seat in the flights around the park, she took it. Jenna also thoroughly enjoyed ferry rides around the lakes in Ketchikan. In 2004 Jenna chose Grand Canyon National Park in Arizona for her next stint as a tour bus driver. “That was an absolute fun job,” Jenna said. Also for fun that summer she rode a motorcycle. Jenna finds adventure locally now. She had a basement two-car garage remodeled for a pool room. She and a group of friends, usually about 10 people, get together once a week to shoot pool and enjoy dinner. Everyone brings a dish.

Jenna is part of a Master Gardening class that meets every Thursday in Grand Junction. She is serving an internship where she will be volunteering for 50 hours, 15 of which she has completed. She and her sister go to the CSU Extension office in Delta on Wednesdays and people bring in samples of sod and plants for the volunteers to identify. Volunteers also go out to look at trees. “I learn more as I become more involved,” she said. She is a long-time gardener at home, and for some time played guitar and piano with two friends, Billie Davis and Boyd Murphy. Boyd recently passed away. Jenna would like to play again and hopes to find other musicians interested in playing with a small group. Jenna is an artist, a painter, and she also creates art by turning wood on a lathe, her latest creation being an urn for cremains. She enjoys refinishing fur-

niture and is currently working on an old rocking chair. She has loved cars since she was very young, and has danced all her life. These two loves came together when she met her late husband, Garry Bemis, at a dance in Montrose. The two-step was all Garry knew when they met. He was a member of the Moose Lodge in Grand Junction, which has a great ballroom. There, Garry learned to waltz and polka also. “We would dance around the outside ring of the dancers until Garry learned the steps and was more comfortable dancing,” she said. Garry was a collector who owned seven antique cars. Along with Garry, Jenna appreciated the beauty and history of the antique cars. They both enjoyed driving them to car shows and getting to see the special cars that other people brought to the shows. Plus, they just enjoyed driving the cars for the sheer pleasure of doing so.

Photo by Annette Brand

Jenna is a painter and also creates art on a wood lathe. The two snow scenes at top are by Jenna, as are the plate to the left and the framed work at the bottom on the table.