Delta County Independent, July 11, 2018 by Delta County Independent

NORTH FORK TIMES

SURFACE CREEK NEWS

INUNDATED

Flooding closes park trail, tennis courts in Paonia, B1

SPORTS

FAIR PREVIEW

BEHIND THE NAME

Chamber get-together showcases exhibitors, fair board members, C1

Paonia football field has carried coach’s name for 80+ years, B6

DELTA COUNTY

JULY 11, 2018 VOL. 135, NO. 28

75¢

INDEPENDENT

www.deltacountyindependent.com

Tips sought on potholes vandalism

The BLM is offering a monetary reward for information leading to the identification of those responsible for vandalism in the potholes recreation site in DominguezEscalante National Conservation Area. The vandalism consists of more than 50 illustrations, words, and abbreviations spray-painted on rocks between the parking area and the swimming holes. It likely occurred sometime between June 25 and June 29. “The BLM and our neighbors and visitors have an equal responsibility to ensure

that we are all good stewards of our public lands,” said Collin Ewing, National Conservation Area manager. “The potholes are a popular destination and we encourage all visitors to leave the area in better condition than they found it.” BLM law enforcement is actively investigating the incident and is working to determine the cost and scope of cleanup efforts. Anyone with information about this vandalism should contact BLM law enforcement at 970-244-3111.

A cool spot to hang out

Photo by Pat Sunderland

Grand Mesa is a beautiful destination any time of the year, but it’s especially tempting when temperatures in the valley hover around 100°. Above, a hiker and his companion take a break after completing a portion of the Crag Crest Trail. Some sections of the trail have been closed for the harvest of dead and dying trees from the spruce beetle outbreak. The majority of the historic trail, however, remains open for public use. The trail can be accessed from a trailhead off Highway 65.

Democratic candidate talks health care BY ANNETTE BRAND Staff Writer

Jared Polis, Democrat candidate for Colorado governor, hosted a Delta health care town hall at the Wild Flower Bistro in Delta on July 3. Over 70 people attended. Polis introduced himself and his running mate, Dianne Primavera. “Solving health care problems in rural Colorado is a major concern for me and for Dianne,” Polis said. “In rural Colorado, there simply aren’t enough doctors and providers to bring highquality care to communities across the state. According to a recent study, insurance costs in western Colorado are over $1,000 above the state average. “Health care in Colorado is about life or death,” Polis said. Polis announced Primav-

era as his choice for a running mate on July 2. Denver Business Journal wrote on July 3, “The selection of Dianne Primavera elevates health care to the forefront of the gubernatorial race.” Primavera serves as the director of Komen Colorado, the breast cancer fighting organization. She is a breast cancer survivor. Primavera is also a former Colorado legislator, serving District 33. She is a counselor by profession. Three health care providers spoke out at the July 3 town hall. Jeremy Carroll, CEO of River Valley Family Health Center, which provides primary health care in Montrose, Olathe and Delta, spoke first. He said River Valley provides a full scope of health services, including mental health,

Photo by Annette Brand

Democratic gubernatorial candidate Jared Polis and his running mate, Dianne Primavera, promise to be a strong voice for health care in Colorado.

INDEX

Accent ........................... A4 Agriculture ................... B5 Activities ....................... A7 Back Page ................... D6 Business ........................ A8 Church ............................C6 Classifieds .................. D1-2 Editorial ......................... A2 Legals ......................... D2-4 North Fork Times ........B1-4 Obituaries ..................... A6 Service Directory ........ D5 Sports .............................B6 Surface Creek News ...C1-5 TV Listings ..................C3-4

access to special care, cardiology, and dermatology. Carroll said, “There are not enough specialists in town for our service area. We have to send patients to Grand Junction and Denver. Thirty percent of our patients have no insurance.” Dr. Mark Carlton, director of pharmacy at Delta County Memorial Hospital, spoke of the burden of the costs of drugs for DCMH patients, “brought to you by the pharmaceutical industry,” and asked the candidates to help reduce that cost of drugs. Carlton also spoke of the costs to patients when there is no local doctor who can provide extended care. When a patient has to drive 160 miles roundtrip to Grand Junction every two weeks for treatments, not only is the patient inconvenienced, but the patient’s support people have to take time off from work and sit through the treatments. He stressed the need to have nurses and doctors caring for patients locally. Dorothy Pew, manager of HopeWest Delta, asked for the candidates’ help with the regulatory burden, which she said is overwhelming for management of small nonprofit organizations. “A young lady in my office had to spend 26 hours on the phone to get one bill straightened out,” she said. “Please sort out the regulatory burden,” Pew emphasized. Polis asked for a show of hands for those having trouble getting in to see a doctor.

Several hands went up, with one person saying the Delta hospital didn’t renew contracts with three doctors and it took her five months to get in to see a new doctor. Polis noted that in the Denver area all the hospitals are expanding. With 51 percent of its patients under Medicaid, Delta County Memorial Hospital isn’t in a position to expand, nor are other rural hospitals. We need better transparency on the difficulty in being able to expand in areas where expansion is

needed, he said. Polis also said he would like to see better access to telemedicine. People spoke out about the cost of health insurance. One woman said she had been on her husband’s insurance. Her husband died, she moved to Delta County from the Front Range, and the cost for her obtaining health insurance is $1,700 a month, which she cannot afford. Dick Gilmore said his wife has chronic lymphocytic HEALTH CARE TO A3

Traffic accident claims second life BY PAT SUNDERLAND Managing Editor

A traffic accident in Olathe Tuesday, July 3, has claimed a second life. The Colorado State Patrol reports that Walter Giron, 61, died Monday, July 9, of injuries he sustained in that crash. He had been hospitalized at Montrose Memorial Hospital. Samuel Giron, 54, of Delta passed away a few hours after the accident, which occurred at about noon at the intersection of Colorado Highway 50 and South 12th Street in Olathe. Walter Giron was the driver of a van that was attempting to make a left turn on to S. 12th from westbound Highway 50. Samuel

County’s unaffiliated voters beat the odds

Delta County’s unaffiliated voters beat the odds in the June 26 primary election — just 1.3 percent of ballots were rejected, compared to the statewide rejection rate of 2.4 percent, according to election figures released by the Colorado secretary of state. Just 23 of the 1,744 unaffiliated voters participating in the primary election in Delta County cast more than one ballot. “Kudos to county clerk Teri Stephenson and her staff,” said a representative of the secretary of state’s office. “I am incredibly proud of the efforts by our county clerks and media partners who helped deliver the message to only vote one ballot,” Secretary of State Wayne Williams said. “Our office will be working with the clerks to improve the percentage in our next primary election, in 2020.” Voters in 2016 approved Proposition 108, which allowed unaffiliated voters to automatically participate in primary elections by voting for candidates on either the Democratic ballot or the Republican ballot. Based on other states’ results, one argument against the measure was that as many as 7 percent of the ballots would have to be disqualified because voters would fill out both ballots instead of one.

Giron was a passenger in the van. The Colorado State Patrol reports that the van may have turned into the pathway of an Olathe Police officer, Justin Hice, 28, of Grand Junction, which collided with the right side of the van. Hice had reportedly activated the emergency lights on his police cruiser. Hice was treated at Montrose Memorial Hospital and is now at home recuperating from surgery, according to Olathe Police Chief George Jackson. Trooper Josh Lewis, Colorado State Patrol public affairs spokesman, said the circumstances of the collision remain under investigation.

License fees increase The fee for a driver license increased by $1 to $28 on July 1, 2018, in accordance with Colorado Revised Statute 422-114.5. The fee increase is intended to offset the cost of providing driver services. This fee increase is the last of three written into the current law, which included a $1 price increase in the cost of driver licenses each year since 2015. Eligible Coloradans are encouraged to “skip the trip” and renew their licenses online at mydmv.colorado.gov.

A2 Wednesday, July 11, 2018

OPINION

LETTERS Rural Colorado needs Kerry Donovan Dear Editor: Our state legislature needs to be filled with people who are there to serve. Not to serve themselves or their career, but to serve the people whom they represent. State Senator Kerry Donovan is one such person. She has served the people of District 5 throughout her first term, and she has earned the right to a second term. Her work since 2015 has included fighting for expanded access to rural broadband which

is so necessary for economic growth. She successfully introduced legislation to decrease the inequitably high cost of rural health care. The governor signed her legislation to provide job creation and job retention assistance to rural communities in economic distress. Another bill which she introduced and worked through the legislature was for the creation of an agricultural workforce development program

that came with appropriated funding. In her second term, Sen. Donovan wants to fix Colorado’s infrastructure, secure increased funding for K12 education, and make sure our public lands stay in public hands. I encourage you to cast your vote for Sen. Kerry Donovan because our rural communities need her advocacy and her ability to get legislation passed and signed into law. Kathy Browning Hotchkiss

Crawford mayor is ignoring due process Dear Editor: Our Founding Fathers recognized over 200 years ago that due process of law is the foundation of democracy. The guarantee of that process can be found in the U.S 5th and 14th Amendments to our Bill of Rights which states, “No person shall be deprived of life, liberty, or property without due process of law.” That same guarantee can also be found in our Colorado State Constitution under Article II, Section 25. For whatever reason, Crawford Mayor Wanda Gofforth has chosen to ignore these guarantees and instead is seeking her own tribunal by declaring,

“Any council member is an enforcement officer and can start a report if they see a nuisance,” Then, “A letter is sent to notify the person and if not resolved within a timely manner a fine is imposed.” Part of the due process of law is having the right to face one’s accusers and benefit of legal counsel. I’m afraid a letter sent in the mail over an alleged ordinance violation doesn’t offer those benefits. Mayor Gofforth is no stranger to municipal legal issues. Since her election she has recklessly thrown away thousands of taxpayer dollars in legal fees on false cru-

Thank You ��

sades and shown multiple disregards to our state open meeting laws. The Town of Crawford has an attorney. I don’t see any mention of him being consulted in the DCI July 4 article, “Crawford discusses nuisance ordinance.” Instead, Mayor Gofforth has once again issued a decree based on her interpretation of legal authority. Carl Page Crawford

Delta County Independent

Cheap citizenship weakens America Dear Editor: Amid the immigration debate wrapped around the threat to national security, absent is the consideration of a more dire threat — the declining role of responsible citizenship and its weakening of our country. Citizenship means little to most Americans because it’s too cheap. How do most Americans “earn” their citizenship? Simply by being born here! In other words, we have done absolutely nothing to earn the privileges of citizenship other than having been lucky not to be born somewhere else. What must a citizen do to maintain his citizenship? Nothing. It’s free. When something is free, it’s valued little. Cheap citizenship is devaluing our nation. Because citizenship is cheap, the responsibilities of citizenship are not only not valued, but often shirked. Voter participation in presidential elections is typically 50 percent, at most 60 percent. Turnout for other elections is much lower. One

responsibility of citizenship is to pay taxes. We may not like it — most “responsibilities” aren’t pleasant. But how many “citizens” do everything they can to avoid paying taxes, whether by inflating deductions, accepting cash to avoid reporting income, or a myriad of drummed up schemes? We are self-enamored by the appearance of fervent patriotism and support of our military. Yet we have a “volunteer” military that doesn’t represent our population or demand sharing of service/sacrifice from the citizenship. If asked to pay more taxes to support our wars or provide for our servicemen and veterans, no way. Don’t expect us to sacrifice! Put it on the national credit card. Let future Americans pay, but not us! Or worse, underfund it on purpose. It’s deplorable that we need charities like Wounded Warrior because our government (that’s us) isn’t willing (shirks responsibility) to pay for the sacrifices of our soldiers. But we sing the

national anthem before NFL contests and feel patriotic. Because it costs nothing. We send our military into danger and war, as long as it costs “us” nothing. We say “thank you for your service” — it costs nothing. I served for 30 years, volunteering during the Vietnam draft era. I don’t expect any thank you’s. Service is selfless. I expect responsible citizenship from the country I served. Citizenship is valuable. Require that it be EARNED. Serve the country for a year or two in some way, pass a citizenship test, then be granted citizenship on your 21st birthday. If you don’t vote, you lose it. If you cheat on your taxes, you lose it. If we need to fight a war, demand some shared sacrifice by requiring Congress raise taxes to pay for it. That will make us think twice before wasting fiscal and human treasure unnecessarily. Put responsible citizenship back into what it means to be an American. Brian Wegner Paonia

Law enforcement blotter

From the Delta Police theft. Officers responded to Department (edited for Tractor Supply for a report length): of illegal burning. Frank Salazar, 49, of Delta was issued a July 1: Officers responded to the summons for charges of open area of 12th Street and Main burning restrictions and a no Street for a report of a suspi- trespass notification. Officers responded to cious incident. Officers responded to the Walmart for a report of a pos500 block of Grand Avenue sible wanted person. Davona for a report of a female with K. Stewart, 44, of Denver was Dear Editor: arrested and jailed on a warmental health concerns. This afternoon I’m Officers conducted a traffic rant with a $300 bond. Officers responded to “singing the praise” stop in the 400 block of Meekfor the friendly helpful er Street. As a result, Javier Walmart for a report of a posMedina-Adame, 54, of Aurora, sible wanted person. John H. owner and employees of was arrested and jailed on a Stewart, 47, of Denver was our local Ace Hardware. I Denver County warrant, with arrested and jailed on three warrants with a $3,700 total have a fairly large patch a $500 cash only bond. bond. of grass in my lawn that’s July 2: Danita D. Rule, 61, of Delta received informadead with little circles of tionOfficers regarding property was was issued a summons for green in it. Jim Kend- found at 1410 Valley View charges of abuse of a corpse erick and an employee Drive, My Place Club and and concealing death. July 6: spent considerable time Pub. Officers completed a warOfficers took a report of explaining the difference theft from an auto in the area rant for a failure to register as between a fungus and of Hellman Ford. This case is a sex offender within the City having a grub problem. still active pending review of of Delta. Officers completed a warThey were so kind and video surveillance. Officers responded to rant for a failure to register as all of us should be thankfor a report of an a sex offender within the City ful for time spent when Walmart assault. Ryan A. Jacobs, 35, of of Delta. someone shares their Eckert was arrested and jailed James L. Huff, 56, of Delta knowledge about our con- on charges of bond violation, was arrested and jailed on charges of harassment as an theft and disorderly conduct. cerns. Rodriquez, 25, act of domestic violence. Shirlene Cunningham of Emmanuel Officers responded to Fort Olathe was arrested and Delta jailed on three warrants with Uncompahgre for a report of theft of cash from a tip jar. a $2,000 total bond. Officers responded to Officers took a lobby report of a possible assault. As a Delta County Sheriff’s Office result, Michael A. Lester, 39, of to assist with a possible menDelta was arrested and jailed tal health suspect. on charges of assault in the July 7: Officers responded to the third degree, child abuse and 100 block of Dodge Street for cruelty to animals. the report of a disturbance. As July 3: Dear Editor: Officers responded to the a result, John S. Beres, 59, of Re: Marijuana Q&A 1300 block of East 3rd Street Delta was arrested and jailed from the Delta County in reference to a disturbance. on charges of third degree Officers were dispatched assault as an act of domestic Sheriff ’s Office published to 40 Heinz Street for a mental violence. in the June 20 DCI: Officers responded to 9900 health concern. The only way that Officers responded to Qual- Devil’s Thumb Road for a county ordinance 2018-01 ity Inn for the report of a sto- report of criminal mischief. Officers responded to the mirrors the state law is if len vehicle. As a result, Thom D. Kerns, 47, of Cedaredge 100 block of Main Street for a it is a fun house mirror. arrested and jailed on report of a minor traffic acciWhile the state tries was charges of aggravated motor dent. to respect the rights the vehicle theft, criminal misOfficers responded to Sumconstitution gives Colora- chief and theft. mers Rocky Mountain Motors, Officers responded to a 2195 Southgate Lane, for a do residents, the county ordinance goes out of its 911 hang up in the 700 block report of a stolen vehicle. Officers responded to the of Dodge Street. way to violate the consti- July 4: 300 block of West 3rd Street tutional rights of many While on routine patrol in for a report of theft. Citations: Ten tickets were the area of Highway 92 and Delta County residents. I will be addressing Highway 50, officers arrested issued this week for various jailed Stefannie Y. Brown, traffic violations. my concerns to our com- and Please remember: All crim36, of Grand Junction on missioners during con- charges of driving under the inal charges are merely an stituent time on Monday, influence, driving under the accusation and the defendant July 16, which starts at influence per se, speeding 10- is presumed innocent until or 19 and failed to drive in a unless proven guilty. 9 a.m. single lane. Brown was also I welcome anyone served with express consent From the Delta County interested in the subject, affidavit and notice of revoca- Sheriff’s Office (partial list): and all reporters inter- tion. July 2: ested in the whole story July 5: Deputies investigated a Officers responded to to attend. Workforce Center, 206 Ute burglary at the Delta BuildBill Bailey Street, for a report of a first ing Center, 1796 Highway 50. Fruitland Mesa degree criminal trespass and Sometime over the weekend, suspect(s) broke into multiple locations on the property, stealing tools and a laptop, and siphoning gas from vehicles and a generator. Surveillance video is being reviewed. An Austin resident reported that a duck and a chick had been killed by a neighbor’s dog that came onto his property. July 3: A Montrose resident reportDear Editor: Well, another amazing and successful fireworks ed the theft of tools from a ranch on Eagle View Road, show this year. We hope everyone enjoyed the show Paonia, where he worked. because we enjoyed putting it on for all of you. The Taken from an unlocked Delta Fire Department would like to thank all the garage on the property were local businesses and individuals of this great commu- Matco and Blue Point automotools, plus two firearms nity that donated and supported the July 4 fireworks tive —a 9mm Ruger P89 and a .45 show this year. If it wasn’t for your support, we could caliber semi-automatic. A susnot have such an amazing show. We would also like pect has been identified. to thank all the other departments for their help in July 5: An 11-year-old boy reportmaking this year’s show amazing and safe for all edly drove an adult friend to who were watching — the Delta Police Department, the hospital emergency room Delta Fire Department, Cedaredge Fire Department, after the adult pulled over Paonia Fire Department, Olathe Fire Department to the side of the road near and the Delta County Ambulance District. Again, Austin and Fairview roads in City, saying he did thanks to all of you and we will see you next year! Orchard not feel well. Dispatch was Stay safe! notified by emergency room Delta Fire Department personnel.

Grateful for knowledgeable assistance

A shovelful of propaganda

KUDOS

4th of July fireworks were amazing

A 23-year-old Austin resident complained her motherin-law had grabbed her by the wrist. Timothy Smith, 46, was charged with third degree assault and assault on an atrisk individual after allegedly hitting his 76-year-old mother on the back of her head with his fist. At about 4:45 p.m., deputies provided traffic control for an accident near the intersection of Highway 92 and Highway 65. The investigation was handled by the Colorado State Patrol. Deputies conducted an investigation into the death of a 72-year-old Cedaredge resident. It was determined he had died by suicide on Grand Mesa. July 6: A Denver resident reported the theft of numerous items from her campsite on Old Grand Mesa Road. Stolen items included an Intense mountain bike, black in color, valued at $6,000; a Gary Fisher mountain bike, blue in color, valued at $1,000; a generator; chainsaw; and fishing tackle, camping gear and clothing valued at about $2,000. A camp host from Arizona reported that the fee tube at the Weir and Johnson campground on Grand Mesa had been broken into twice. The first time, the loss was estimated at $150; the second time he believed about $400 had been taken. July 7: At about 5:45 p.m., a wildfire was reported on Primrose Lane near Cedaredge. Grass and several trees were burned, but no structures were damaged. The blaze was extinguished by Cedaredge firefighters. It is believed the fire was caused either by lightning or by exposed electrical wiring near a pump. An Eckert woman reported several items missing from her home, including rings and silver. She suspects her roommate. At about 7 p.m., a Cedaredge resident reported that a Ford F150 truck had plowed through a fence on S. Grand Mesa Drive. He reported the driver smelled of alcohol and appeared to be intoxicated. Teams were formed to conduct marijuana compliance visits throughout the county. By resolution, county residents are allowed a maximum of 12 marijuana plants. Delta County Sheriff Fred McKee reports that most of those with more than 12 willingly pulled the excess plants. Deputies can also issue summons for those out of compliance, with escalating penalties for repeat offenses. Correction: Last week’s blotter detailed an incident on Powell Mesa Road involving a semi of hay fully engulfed in flames. It was erroneously reported that the truck driver, Daniel Bolton of Hotchkiss, was issued a summons for driving without a valid CDL license. He does have the proper license.

DELTA COUNTY

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

LOCAL NEWS

Delta County Independent

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Wednesday, July 11, 2018

City, county explore utility improvements at Blake Field BY PAT SUNDERLAND Managing Editor

A discussion between city and county officials about utility services at Blake Field continued at a city council work session July 10. At the initial meeting between the two entities June 26, it was agreed city and county staff would work together to provide elected officials with costs for the design and construction of water and sewer extensions. As that process unfolds, council members have been asked to address several questions: Will the city require annexation before utility service is provided? If so, should staff be working on a potential airport zoning overlay

for the specific property needs as identified by county officials, such as landscaping concerns? If not, will Delta County and its perspective hangar customers pay out-of-town tap and use rates per city code? Potential sales tax revenue, should the area be annexed, was also to be considered at the July 10 work session. Both the city and county have vowed to continue exploring opportunities to improve the existing infrastructure around the airport. According to a yearend report provided to the county commissioners in February, takeoffs and landings at Blake Field in 2017 were 3,677, up 28.6 percent over 2016. Total

Health care FROM PAGE A1 leukemia. About every three years she needs treatment. If the treatment is IV chemo, it is covered by Medicare Part B. In the fall of 2016 her doctor prescribed a new oral wonder drug, Imbruvica. An oral drug is covered by Medicare Part D. The price of the oral drugs was $10,000 per month. The next year a friend in Cedaredge was prescribed the same drug and the price had risen to $16,000 a month. One audience member asked, “Will we have to move to other parts of the state in order to get insurance coverage? “We appreciate so much you being here and listening to us. What can you do for us?” she asked Polis. Polis said Colorado should reconsider geographic price ratings for

Three vehicles collide at 92/65

fuel sold was 42,535.93 gallons, up 91.6 percent. Rent collected was $19,303, up 12.8 percent, with many inquiries for space. Aircraft based at Blake Field as of Dec. 31, 2017, were 63, consisting of one helicopter, one motor-glider, several single and twin engines, and numerous experimental aircraft. Cheryl Hussman of Smiling Aviation, the airport’s fixed based operator, told the commissioners, “Looking forward, we have seen an increase in traffic and inquiries for space on the field. At this moment, we do not have any hangar space for rent, only two or three tie down spaces for monthly renters and two or three tie downs left open regularly for transients,” she said.

Starr’s Guitars presents

Dana Cooper in concert with special guest Bittersweet Highway

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Want to advertise in the DCI? Contact one of our ad reps at 874-4421.

health care, including a single statewide rating, in an effort to lower costs. “Dianne and I will be a strong voice for health care in Colorado,” Polis said, and thanked those attending for a warm Delta reception. Primavera also thanked those attending and added, “And thanks to the Hospice people, too.” Jared Polis currently represents northern Colorado in the United States House of Representatives. In 2000 he was elected to the Colorado Board of Education and served as chairman of the board. He also founded and ran several nonprofit schools for at risk children and served as superintendent of the New America School, which helps new immigrants earn their high school diplomas. Polis is an entrepreneur, having started several successful businesses.

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BY PAT SUNDERLAND

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Managing Editor

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Reese Wagner, 50, of Cedaredge was cited for failure to yield right of way after a three-vehicle collision at the intersection of Highway 65 and 92. The accident was reported at 4:44 p.m. Thursday, July 5. The Colorado State Patrol reports that Wagner was eastbound on Highway 92, preparing to make a lefthand turn onto Highway 65. He allegedly pulled in front of a 2006 GMC SUV which was headed westbound on Highway 92. Wagner’s vehicle then struck a third vehicle, a 2015 Ford pickup, that had stopped at the stop sign on Highway 65, preparing to turn onto Highway 92. One person was transported to the hospital with minor injuries and a second driver was cited for driving without a driver’s license. No drugs or alcohol were involved in the accident.

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A4 Wednesday, July 11, 2018

ACCENT

Delta County Independent

BIRTHS David and Katie Rhodes of Olathe are the parents of a son, David Remington Rhodes, born June 23, 2018, at Delta County Memorial Hospital. He weighed 7 pounds, 4 ounces and was 20.5 inches in length.

Delta County Memorial Hospital. She weighed 5 pounds, 7 ounces and was 18 inches in length. Cheyenne and Bryan Cook of Crawford are the parents of a daughter, Scarlett Marie Cook, born July 2, 2018, at Delta County Memorial Hospital. She weighed 6 pounds, 3 ounces and was 19.5 inches in length.

Rachel Castle and Alvin Sewell of Austin are the parents of a son, Boston Sewell, born June 26, 2018, at Delta County Memorial Hospital. He Kaimi Weatherford weighed 10 pounds, 4.6 and Sean Metheny are ounces and was 21.25 the parents of a son, inches in length. Parker Wesley Weatherford, born July 3, Brandon and Hayley 2018, at Delta County Cowger of Paonia are Memorial Hospital. He the parents of a daugh- weighed 7 pounds, 4.8 ter, Lydia McCall Cow- ounces and was 19.5 ger, born July 1, 2018, at inches in length.

Hubwheelers announce two August dances The Delta Hubwheelers Square Dance Club will gather at Bill Heddles Recreation Center, 531 N. Palmer Street, Delta, on Aug. 4 for a regular dance. A special dance is planned Thursday, Aug. 16, with guest caller Dean

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Scholarship recipients

Altrusa International of Delta would like to congratulate the club’s 2018 scholarship winners. Pictured (from left) is Altrusan and scholarship chair Kami Collins with winners Laura Herren (who is studying massage therapy); Lisa Holst (educational leadership); Amy Peebles (elementary education); Kayla Brown (business and ﬁnance); Paula Lorimor (nursing); and Mandy Cotten (special education). Each of the recipients received a $1,000 scholarship to aid them in their education. Altrusa also awarded two scholarships to ASTRA students Emily Gonzalez and Sabrina Gilmore, who were not available for the photo. Funds are raised for the annual scholarships through Altrusa’s Deltarado Days kickoff dinner (this year on July 26 at Lions Pavilion at Conﬂuence) and the Sugar Plum Festival in the fall. “We congratulate all the recipients and wish them luck in all their future endeavors,” Collins said.

Summer camps offer adventure

Diederman from NebrasThe Nature Connection “Adventure of the 1830s” ka at a special location — and Fort Uncompahgre camps. Activities include Garnet Mesa Elementary are teaming up to offer orienteering, shelter School. Enter from the cafeteria off 5th Street. The second dance of the month, which would normally be held Aug. 18, has been cancelled. Hub Wheelers dance on the first and third Saturdays of each month. Dances are Mainstream with Plus tips from 7 to 9 p.m. Club caller is Naaman Moorehouse of Grand Junction. For more information, Photo submitted call 835-3771 or 835“Custom Garage” was the theme of vacation Bible 8666. school at the Delta First Church of God. The fun continues this year with “Power Lab,” where kids discover Jesus’ miraculous power. SUBSCRIBE TO DCI

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building, fishing, crafts and games. Go on a scavenger hunt and learn how to shoot a bow and arrow and throw a tomahawk. July 9-11 and July 2325 are set aside for third, fourth and fifth graders. Camps July 16-18 and July 30-Aug. 1 are open to fifth, sixth and seventh graders.

VBS promises ‘Fun Days for Kids’ Delta First Church of God invites all children to “Fun Days For Kids” Monday, July 16-20 with a closing program on Sunday, July 22, at 10:15 a.m. Come to 1102 Howard Street (corner of 11th and Howard) each evening from 6 to 8:30 p.m. VBS is for all children going into kindergarten through sixth grades. This year’s program is Group’s “Power Lab,” where kids discover Jesus’ miraculous power! Each day, get ready for an exciting adventure, following Jesus as He heals, helps, and gives power to people who need him. Power Lab is fizzing with fun and amazing Bible adventures, stimulating games, tasty treats, crazy crafts, memorable songs and wacky characters ... plus a lot of surprises in the lab! And the kids will apply what they learn each evening by doing a

daily challenge and collecting for a special offering. A huge finale closes out the program. To be a part of the excitement at Power Lab, call children’s pastor Linda Aubery at 970765-5034 or Delta First Church of God at 8744647. There is no charge for the program.

60th class reunion scheduled Delta High School’s Class of 1958 is planning its 60th reunion during Deltarado Days. Alumni are invited to gather at Cleland Park at 10 a.m. Saturday, July 28. For information about other activities, contact Stan Sammons at 2345520 or Larry Head at 872-6311.

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Words come to life

Kids are invited to Delta Library for a very special program with the talented Linda Dysart Thursday, July 19, at 2 p.m. Linda brings the words of a story to life through dance and music.

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Black Canyon Quilt Show set for July 20-22

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Sponsored by:

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The annual Black Canyon Quilt Show takes place July 20-22 at the Montrose Pavilion Drive, 1800 Pavilion Drive. More than 175 quilts by local artisans will be on display. Also featured will be vendors, a raffle quilt, a boutique where the public can purchase handcrafted quilted items, scissor sharpening, classes, Saturday afternoon lecture by quilt

artist Barbara Yates Beasley, and Sunday demonstrations. Admission is $4. Show hours are 9-5 Friday and Saturday, 10-4 Sunday. Bobbie Aug will appraise quilts by appointment at a cost of $50. Make appraisal appointments with Carolyn at 970-249-8362. Class and lecture details can be found at black canyonquiltshow.com.

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All camps run from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. and are limited to 20 participants. Camps will be held at Fort Uncompahgre, located at 440 Palmer Street in Delta. The cost is $75 for each camp. To register, call Mike Chastain at 874-8349.

San Juan Sunrise

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LOCAL NEWS

Delta County Independent

Wednesday, July 11, 2018

Property valuation protests drop to just 99 BY ANNETTE BRAND Staff Writer

Colorado State Statutes mandate that county assessors report to their board of county commissioners, on or before July 15 of each year, a record of the properties and owners on which a protest of the assessed value of that property was filed, including the disposition of that protest. The report must include the total taxable value of all real and personal property in the county, as of the date of the report. Also required is a list of business personal property owners who failed to report to the assessor a list of their business personal property. County assessor Debbie Griffith provided her report to county commissioners Doug Atchley, Mark Roeber and Don Suppes on July 9.

In 2018 the assessor’s office received a total of 99 protests of the assessed valuation for the year 2017, taxes payable in 2018. “That is the lowest number of protests received in the assessor’s office in the past 29 years,” Griffith said. “We made corrections that lowered the value on 64 accounts, raised the value on 13 accounts, and on 23 accounts the value remained the same. “One protest was voided because the taxpayer filed his protest on the wrong property.” Griffith reported that the current value of all taxable real and personal property in Delta County is $296,966,248, which shows an increase from December 2017 of $1,981,797. “The increase will result in approximately $35,000 of additional rev-

enue for Delta County,” 25, 2018, including the county’s net valuation.” could be substantial effect of the Delta Urban Griffith said it is changes to values in the Griffith said. “We have received pre- Renewal District on the always possible there last half of 2018. liminary figures for our companies assessed by the state that indicate a decrease in value of about $2,416,500, which results in a loss of revenue of approximately $43,150. The result would be a net loss in property tax revenue of about $8,150.” Griffith expects to receive the final state assessed values by Aug. 1. Eighty businesses failed to report their business personal property in 2018. The report included their business Photo by Pat Sunderland name, account number and the value of the personal property currently Nick Teal and Anthony Cooper from the school district’s technology on the account. department check data connections at the new district ofﬁce in downGriffith said, “The town Delta. The building at 145 W. 4th Street, which formerly housed a assessor’s office will probank, has been remodeled to accommodate district administrators and vide a certification of valsupport staff. They anticipated making the move from Read on Wednesues to all taxing authorday, July 11. ities on or before Aug.

Ready to make the move

Sportsmen invited to voice opinions Colorado Parks and Wildlife’s Southwest Region invites hunters and anglers to give their ideas and voice their opinions about wildlife issues at a Sportsmen’s Roundtable meeting which will be held by video teleconference, 6-8 p.m., Wednesday, July 18. Anyone interested can go to one of the local wildlife offices in the Southwest Region to participate. The closest office location is in Montrose, at 2300 S. Townsend Avenue. The meeting is part of the ongoing statewide “Sportsmen’s Roundtable” process set up by

Class of 1973 plans reunion Delta High School’s Class of 1973 is planning a reunion during Deltarado Days. Classmates, whether they graduated in 1973 or not, are invited to the 45th class reunion Saturday, July 28, from noon to dusk in Confluence Park, sites #4, #5 and #6. Meat will be provided; please bring salads, sides or desserts and your own beverages. Please RSVP by midJune. To RSVP or for more information, call Diann (Koppes) Suttle in Montrose at 596-5053, Jose Lujan in Grand Junction at 596-1406 or Kathi (Schlangen) Marquez in Delta at 9017754. Pass the word.

CPW to assure that hunters, anglers and everyone who cares about wildlife can provide input and discuss issues with leaders of the agency. Sportsmen’s Roundtable representatives will be at the meeting, along with Patt Dorsey, southwest regional manager. Also attending will be local CPW wildlife managers and biologists. Updates will be provided on statewide and regional issues facing the agency. Specific items for this meeting will include: chronic wasting disease, effects of the drought and fire on fisheries and terrestrial wildlife, and update on the “Future Generations” legislation passed by the legislature in January. CPW staff wants to hear from participants regarding big game hunting, fishing and other wildlife-related issues. “We know people are very busy, but we want to hear what’s on the minds of hunters and anglers,” Dorsey said. “The input we receive in the field is valuable and important. Wildlife conservation and management are vastly enhanced with an involved constituency.” Southwest Region representatives on the statewide roundtable group include Kevin Alexander of Gunnison, and Bob Cox of Cedaredge. The statewide committee is composed of 24 people from throughout Colorado. For more information, call Joe Lewandowski at 970-375-6708; or by e-mail at joe. lewandowski@state. co.us.

Traffic tip By Trooper Evan Hilling Please move over! Colorado Revised Statute 42-4-705(2) outlines the actions of each driver as they approach a stationary emergency vehicle, tow truck, or public utility vehicle that is displaying flashing lights on the side of the highway. On a highway with two or more adjacent lanes, this means slowing and moving at least one lane over as you pass. When only one lane exists, the law requires proceeding with due care by decreasing speed as you pass. While this law is designed specifically for emergency, tow and public utility vehicles, it is common courtesy to move over for any vehicle on the shoulder of a highway. A violation of this statute is a misdemeanor traffic offense that carries a $169 fine and points against your license, but most importantly it is to ensure the safety of everybody

who is stopped on the highway. So please take a few seconds to move over! The Colorado State Patrol thanks you for driving safe this summer.

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439 E. Main • Montrose • 970-249-7877

A6 Wednesday, July 11, 2018

Mary Woodruff

Mary LoRene Reirdon Woodruff died June 26, 2018. She was 82. She was born March 31, 1936, to Jack and LoRene (Taliaferro) Reirdon. She grew up and attended school in Durant, Okla., graduating from Durant High School in 1955. On July 14, 1955, she married Philip Woodruff in Durant, Okla. After having her two children, she attended Southeastern State College of Oklahoma, graduating in 1963 with a bachelor’s degree in elementary education with a minor in home economics. They moved to Hotchkiss in 1963 because of Phil’s previous hunting experience in the San Juan area and his love of the mountains. Mrs. Woodruff was promised an elementary school teaching position in Hotchkiss if she would teach one year of home economics at the high school. This began Mrs. Woodruff ’s 24-year career as a home economics teacher. In 1969 she brought back the Future Homemakers Organization to the school. In 1976 she started a boys’ home economic class. She had an annual spring style show where top models and seamstresses/tailors were awarded for their talents. In 1976 she started a boys’ home economic class. She earned a master of arts degree from Western State College in 1970. Before she retired in 1991, she had the opportunity to teach four years of fourth grade. After her retirement, she and her husband traveled all over the world. They often visited their son, who lived and worked in Italy, as well as Austria, France, Greece, Turkey, Ireland and South America. Mrs. Woodruff enjoyed crossing paths with her former students. A reception honoring Mrs. Woodruff was hosted last summer by her friends and students. She is survived by her daughter, Grace Whitmer; son-in-law, Lyle Giegling; son, Henry Woodruff (Amy Thomas); twin brothers, Dorsey and Joe Reirdon; sister, Ella Brown; and granddaughter, Emily Whitmer. She was preceded in death by her husband, Phil, who died in 2014. A celebration of life service will be held at a date to be determined.

OBITUARIES

Perry Harding

Paonia resident Perry Gale Harding died July 1, 2018, at his home. He was 95. Graveside services were held July 7 at Cedar Hill Cemetery in Paonia. Mr. Harding was born in Paonia Feb. 27, 1923, to James and Leone (Stevens) Harding. He was raised on the family ranch up Minnesota Creek. On Sept. 17, 1948, he married Nellie Sill in Delta. As a young man, Mr. Harding worked as a cowboy, at fruit packing sheds and at the area coal mines. A jack-of-alltrades, he worked for Western Colorado Power - Colorado Ute at the Oliver, Montrose and Ames plants until his retirement. He is survived by his daughters, Kathy (Larry) Ungaro of Rangely and Debbie (Carl) Miller of Hotchkiss; seven grandchildren, Leanne (Brian) Tobiasson, Laurie Ungaro, April (Derrin) Noel, Lacey Miller, Chase (Alli) Miller, Cody (Melinda) Miller and Brandon (Quenya) Harding; 19 great-grandchildren; and two sisters, Evelyn Williamson of Grass Valley, Calif., and Gwendolyn Condit of Eureka, Calif. He was preceded in death by his wife of 67 years, Nellie, on Sept. 6, 2015; his son, Milton Harding; and siblings, Carrol Harding, Charlotte Patton, Francis Core, Little Jim, Buford and Gordon. Memorial contributions may be made to HopeWest, PO Box 24, Delta, CO 81416. Taylor Funeral Service and Crematory is handling the arrangements. Visit the internet obituary and sign the online guest registry at www. taylorfuneralservice.com.

Joyce Lyon

Hotchkiss resident Joyce V. Lyon died June 21, 2018, at Horizons Care Center in Eckert. She was 89. At her request, no services will be held. Joyce Virginia Friskey was born May 12, 1929, to Ida Kallionen and William Friskey in Castlewood, S.D. Mrs. Lyon was married to Louis Lyon until his death on Oct. 4, 2001. She later met Robert Croft who became her partner for 11 years until his death in October 2016. Mrs. Lyon was a pilot

for many years in Washington and Oregon. She was a member of the “99s,” a women’s flying association. She enjoyed traveling, painting, knitting, sewing and other crafts. She also created stained glass art. She is survived by a niece, Deborah Kiser of Littleton. She was preceded in death by her husband Louis; two brothers; and her partner, Robert. Taylor Funeral Service and Crematory is handling the arrangements. Visit the internet obituary and sign the online guest registry at www. taylorfuneralservice.com.

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ing golf with her husband. She is survived by her husband of 68 years, Buck Richardson; son, Chuck (Brenda) Richardson; daughter, Shelley (Steve) Schmitzer; five grandchildren; and three great-grandchildren. She was preceded in death by a son, Mike Richardson. Taylor Funeral Service and Crematory is handling the arrangements. Visit the internet obituary and sign the online guest registry at www. taylorfuneralservice.com.

John Groome

Roy Wolf

Roy Wolf died July 7, 2018, at his ranch east of Cedaredge. He was 88. Roy Earl Wolf was born on March 27, 1930, to Carlos and Ruth (Walkup) Wolf in Colorado Springs. On July 31, 1949, he married Gerrie Miller. They ranched together for 65 years in El Paso and Delta counties, and were active in the Colorado Cattlemen’s Association. They enjoyed traveling, camping, fishing, family history and collecting pocket knives. Mr. Wolf served on the Falcon District #49 school board, the Black Forest Volunteer Fire Department and the Delta County Agriculture Stabilization and Conservation Service board. He also served as a state representative to the Colorado Republican Convention and as a deacon and chair of the building committee for the Black Forest Baptist Church. Mr. Wolf is survived by two sons, Wayne (Kristine) Wolf and Dennis Wolf; two daughters, Janice (Jim) Whitney and Sharon Wolf, all of Cedaredge; nine grandchildren, Sady (Andy) Mitchell, Sara Lovato, Wendy (Jeff) Sewell, Jessica (Joe) Silva, Aaron Wolf, Nate Wolf, Cody (Hannah) Wolf, Melissa Woodrome and Justin Peterson; and 14 greatgrandchildren. He was preceded in death by his wife, Geraldine; brother, Art; and two grandchildren, Susan and Brian Wolf. A memorial service will be held Saturday, July 14, at 10 a.m. at True Life Church in Cedaredge. Pastor Bob Hillyer will officiate. Memorial contributions may be made to St. Jude Children’s Hospital, 501 St. Jude Place, Memphis, TN 38105, or HopeWest, PO Box 24, Delta, CO 81416. Taylor Funeral Service and Crematory is handling the arrangements. Visit the internet obituary and sign the online guest registry at www. taylorfuneralservice.com.

Donna Richardson

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Delta County Independent

Cedaredge resident Donna Richardson died July 5, 2018, at Colorow Care Center in Olathe. She was 87. At her request, no services will be held. Donna Joy Curtis was born in Denver April 27, 1931, to Charles and Bess (Crangle) Curtis. She spent her childhood on Oaklands Ranch and attended school in Douglas County. After graduating from Douglas County High School in 1948, she attended Colorado Women’s College. On June 9, 1950, she married H.W. “Buck” Richardson in Kodiak, Alaska. They moved from Littleton to Cedaredge 23 years ago. Mrs. Richardson enjoyed spending time with her family and play-

John Groome died June 2, 2018, at Delta County Memorial Hospital. He was 76. He was born March 13, 1942, in Montpelier, Idaho, to Wilson and Fay Groome. He grew up in Las Vegas, Salt Lake City and Whittier, Calif. He married Helen Welch in 1972. He was a transportation major at the University of California. A third generation railroader, he was a locomotive engineer for the Union Pacific Railroad until he moved to Colorado in 1986. He was an active member of the North Fork community, serving as a volunteer at KVNF, a fireman and board member for the Crawford Fire Department, the president of both the Crawford School and Delta County School District accountability committees, school board member, and coach of Tball and soccer teams. After ranching in Crawford, he put on his engineer’s cap again to run the train for loadout services at Bowie Coal Mine. He was a skilled mountaineer who trained others in ice climbing, ice axe use, ice and snow climbing, and survival skills in the Sierra Club’s basic mountaineering training course in Southern California. He climbed peaks such as Mt. Rainier and Mt. Whitney. He enjoyed spending time with his family and supporting his daughters’ activities, a variety of music, reading, cowboy action shooting and was an active member of the Delta Trap Club.

He is survived by his wife of 45 years, Helen; daughters, Theresa (Jason) Wrich, Mary Groome (Daniel Costello) and Julia (Buck) Rohrbaugh; siblings, Margaret Day of Menlo Park, Calif., and Willy (Patty) Groome of Hotchkiss; three grandchildren, Lexi and Will Wrich of Crawford and Eamon Costello of Carbondale; and extended family. A memorial service was held in the pavilion at Zack’s Bar-B-Que in Hotchkiss Saturday, June 9. Memorial contributions may be made to the Delta County Memorial Hospital Foundation JPG Scholarship Fund, PO Box 10100, Delta, CO 81416. Taylor Funeral Service and Crematory handled the arrangements. Visit the internet obituary and sign the online guest registry at www. taylorfuneralservice.com.

Ronald Smalldridge

Ronald Eugene Smalldridge died June 23, 2018, at St. Mary’s Hospital in Grand Junction. He was 80. He was born June 29, 1937, to Merlyn and Sidney (McKim) Smalldridge in Nevada, Iowa. He graduated from high school in Mission, Texas, in 1955. On March 12, 1958, he married Barbara Ann Grove in Mission, Texas. Mr. Smalldridge read meters for a gas company while in Texas. In 1964, the family moved to Monte Vista, where he managed the Monte Vista Potato Growers for many years. He later retired from ITC in Monte Vista. The Smalldridges moved to Eckert in 2009 to be closer to family. Mr. Smalldridge enjoyed spending time with family, shooting, fishing, metal detecting, camping, hunting, coin collecting, gold panning and prospecting, and bike riding. He also enjoyed genealogy and was the family historian. He is survived by two sisters, Mary Saint Marie and Dixie Hodges; five daughters, Suzanne (Kent) Telinde, Gwen (Ki) Nelson, Brenda Bookout, Ann Marie (Hampton)

Lester and Sarah Dick; 18 grandchildren; 20 great-grandchildren; and three great-great-grandchildren. He was preceded in death by his wife, Barbara on Feb. 21, 2018; and a sister, Pat Pearce. A celebration of life was held July 1 at Homelake in Monte Vista.

Frances Tuttle

Frances Tuttle died July 6, 2018, at Crossroads Memory Care in Delta. She is survived by her husband, Robert, of Delta; and a son, Stuart (Mary Paspernacki) Tuttle of Flagstaff, Ariz. Services are pending with Taylor Funeral Service and Crematory. Visit the internet obituary and sign the online guest registry at www. taylorfuneralservice.com.

History program highlights I-70 project Rich Perske, who retired after 34 years with the Colorado Department of Transportation, will present an oral history presentation on the construction of I-70 through western Colorado. His presentation takes place Thursday, July 19, noon to 1 p.m. at the Whitman Educational Center, 248 S. 4th Street, Grand Junction. Perske is a member of the Eagle County Historical Society and helped author a book, “Boom Town to Ghost Town The Story of Fulford.” The book details early mining and rail transportation in Eagle County and the ghost town of Fulford. This program is jointly sponsored by the Museums of Western Colorado and the Mesa County Historical Society and is free and open to the public. Please feel free to bring a lunch. Coffee and cookies will be served. For more information contact MCHS president, Priscilla Mangnall at 970260-5226 or at Priscilla. Mangnall@gmail.com.

PEOPLE IN THE NEWS Luther College senior Leda Ebert of Delta participated in commencement ceremonies for the class of 2018 Sunday, May 27, in Luther’s Carlson Stadium. Ebert received a bachelor of arts degree in environmental studies.

James Leroy Wallace Nov. 14, 1948 ~ July 6, 2018 James Leroy Wallace died Friday, July 6, 2018, at his home in Eckert, Colo., at the age of 69. Jim was born on Nov. 14, 1948 in Twin Falls, Idaho, to William and Fern (Magoffin) Wallace. He is survived in life by his wife Dee Wallace, children Audrey (Michael) Drobnock and Andrew (Katie) Wallace and their mother Mavis Wallace, brother Gerald Wallace, sisters Delores Rezendes and Mary (Dan) Shoemaker, grandchildren Scott and Alexandra Wallace, and many nieces, nephews, and extended family. He was preceded in death by both his parents and his brother Robert Wallace. He spent his childhood in the Bellevue, Idaho, area, graduated from high school in 1967 from Wood River High School in Hailey, Idaho, and college from the University of Idaho with a degree of Bachelor of Science in Forestry. From the time he could walk it was rare to see him without a gun in

his hand and a dog at his side. His children were raised in Coeur d’Alene, Idaho, while he worked for the Fernan Ranger District. He enjoyed outdoor activities including hiking, camping, gardening and bird hunting. As a Christian, he loved the Lord. Jim worked as a Forester for the US Forest Service at various locations including the Nez Perce National Forest and several of their districts, Coeur d’Alene, Idaho, and Libby, Mont. While managing helicopter bases, many forest fires were fought while he was on the job. He retired in 2006 to Eckert, Colo. During retirement

Jim was an avid trap shooter and a member of the Delta Trap Club where he spent many hours shooting and participating in club activities. He won several shooting competitions. Having grown up in farm country, Jim and his wife Dee kept busy cultivating a garden including a small orchard and raising chickens. Early in the morning he could be found in the hunting blind with his buddies. His family and friends knew him to be very active every day and willing to help those in need at a moment’s notice. He had a very special love and devotion for his family and close friends. If you wish to make a contribution in Jim’s memory, please choose a worthy cause of your choice. Call Ken at 970-8563116 for details about the celebration of life service in Delta, Colo. Call Audrey at 509868-8868 for details about the celebration of life service in Bellevue, Idaho. Paid obituary

Delta County Independent

ACTIVITIES

Wednesday, July 11, 2018

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Deltarado Days is set for July 26-29, with most activities again taking place at Confluence Park this year. Now’s the time to register for the parade, glo run, car show, and grass volleyball, pickleball, golf, horseshoe and cornhole tournaments. The parade takes place Saturday, July 28, and will begin promptly at 10 a.m. Check-in time starts at 8 a.m. in the parking lot at 9th and Grand. The parade route is on Main Street from 9th Street north to 2nd Street. There is no charge for entries, thanks to Bank of Colorado, the parade sponsor. You do need to register prior to Friday, July 20, however. Any entries received after that date will go to the back of the line! Floats, car/motorcycle entries, equestrian entries and people walking or riding bikes are all welcome. Entry forms are available at the chamber office, 301 Main, Delta. The 4x4 grass volleyball tournament begins at 11 a.m. Saturday. Teams of four are encouraged to sign up before Friday, July 20. The registration fee is $100; the tournament format will be decided by the number of teams entering the event, which is sponsored

by First State Bank of Colorado. The format of the cornhole tournament will also be determined by the number of teams entering. Registration is $50 per team and must be received prior to Friday, July 20. The pickleball tournament will take place at the tennis courts at Confluence Park. Divisions include 3.5 and 4.0 for males and females. Registration is $25 per person. Naomi’s Hope Project is the sponsor of the horseshoe tournament, the only event to be held at Cleland Park. Pre-registration ends July 15, so stop by the chamber office to pick up your registration form today. Your $25 registration fee includes a T-shirt. A late registration fee of $30 will be in effect on the day of the tournament, and there’s no guarantee of a T-shirt. Kids’ activities, a vendor village and the Delta Street Rodders’ 15th annual car show will all be taking place in Confluence Park Saturday. Registration for the car show is from 7 to 10 a.m.; show hours are 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. Don’t miss the preregistration kickoff party at 5:30 p.m. Friday, July 27, at Butch’s Cafe, 1560

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Banjira

Banjira offers soulful songs from Africa Banjira performs at the Chapel of the Cross in Cedaredge Sunday, July 22, at 4 p.m. Banjira’s musical mix includes a blend of raw claw hammer banjo, Peruvian cajon, Zimbabwean mbira, various hand percussion, and a medley of soulful original lyrics and traditional songs from the U.S., Africa and beyond. Core members Sunny Morehouse and Eric Baumheier have been playing music together

for several years in various groups of different styles. They formed a band together to deepen their study and experience of bringing traditional African musical idioms together with modern ideas, lyrics and styles, and to share the joy they experience through music with others! Other members include Aja McAdams on percussion and back-up vocals, and Dylan Fixmer on mandolin, trumpet and vocals.

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Bush at 970-209-1530 or Ken Brown at Devil’s Thumb, 970-874-6262, to reserve a spot. New this year is the fun glo run, with two courses to choose from Thursday, July 26, at Confluence Park. Participants can run either a one-mile or a three-mile course, and start any time between 7 and 8 p.m. There is no charge for this event, which will take place after the Altrusa kick-off dinner and prior to the movie in the park sponsored by Grace Church. See the ad on page A3 for a complete schedule of Deltarado Days events.

Elks host suicide prevention event In Delta, Montrose, Ouray, San Miguel, Gunnison and Hinsdale counties, there have been nearly 80 deaths by suicide in the last two years. Colorado is ranked fifth in the nation for deaths by suicide. Chances are, you or someone you know has been affected by suicide. The Region 10 Suicide Prevention Alliance has a mission to raise awareness and educate communities on the warning signs of suicide and how to help someone who is experiencing suicidal thoughts. Education and awareness come at a cost — a cost to provide free trainings to the communities served by Region 10, costs for awareness campaigns and costs for outreach efforts. Please consider helping with this valuable mission by attending the Butterfly Friendzy from 6 p.m. to midnight Saturday, July 14, at the Montrose Elks Lodge, 801 S. Hillcrest. The event will include a prime rib dinner, silent auction and live music by Cimarron. Tickets are $35 each and can be purchased at the Elks lodges in Delta and Montrose,

or by contacting David Husby at 970-209-7127. Sponsors are also sought for this event. More information is available from Heather Darbe at hdarbe@centermh.org.

Soccer registration is underway Registration for the youth recreational soccer program is open until Saturday, July 21. From July 21-28, a $10 late fee will be charged in addition to the registration fee. Soccer is for ages 414 with birthdates from 1/1/2005 to 12/31/2014. Each team will practice two times a week beginning Aug. 20 and will have a total of six games, beginning in early September. There will also be an end-of-season tournament. Games are usually played on Thursday and Friday evenings or on Saturdays. The fee for U6-U10 is $60; for U12U-14, it’s $65. For more information or to register, stop by Bill Heddles Recreation Center, call 874-0923 or email whitnee@cityofdelta.net.

Local duo performs at Chapel of the Cross Local duo Me and Bob (Bob Wear and Nancy Carlson) will be performing at Cedaredge Chapel of the Cross on Thursday, July 19, at 7 p.m. Bob and Nancy began singing together in the group “Roses and

Thorns,” sang together at the Sheridan Opera House Show Bar in Telluride, and sing in the Eckert Presbyterian Church. The program will focus on many love songs from years past along with a few surprises.

Youth tennis camp is a blast for kids 8-13 A week of tennis instruction for boys and girls ages 8-13 begins Tuesday, July 31, and continues through Saturday, Aug. 4, from 8 a.m. to 10 a.m. Racquets and balls will be provided, but youth should arrive dressed to play. The youth tennis blast camp is offered by the City of Delta, Bill Hed-

dles Recreation Center and Christina Curtis. The registration fee is $45; interested youth should pre-register at the recreation center before July 27. For more information or to register, stop by Bill Heddles Recreation Center, call Gary West at 874-0923 or email gary@cityofdelta.net.

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S. Main Street. More information about the car show can be obtained by calling 874-8130. The Delta High School Alumni Association is sponsoring this year’s Deltarado Days Golf Scramble hosted by Devil’s Thumb Golf Club. Players will begin their quest for bragging rights and a variety of prizes Sunday, July 29, with a shotgun start at 9 a.m. Sign-in begins at 8 a.m. Play format is a scramble with four-man teams ($65 each player) vying for top honors. Registrations are to be concluded by July 26. Call Dwain

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Bob Wear and Nancy Carlson

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A8 Wednesday, July 11, 2018

BUSINESS

Delta County Independent

Esplins announce plans to sell Delta Elevator was fully insured. “I sold my ashes there and bought the elevators After 44 years, Bob in Delta and Montrose,” Esplin and his wife Lauhe recalls. rie have decided it’s time Those elevators stored to sell the Delta Elevalocally grown wheat until tor. it could be shipped by rail Bob tried retirement to the flour milling operawhen he turned 62 about tion in Grand Junction. 18 years ago, but quickly The flour was marketed realized how much he under the name Pikes missed the daily interPeak Flour. actions with his cusThe Montrose elevatomers and suppliers. tor was closed because of Three years later, he was the high cost of railroad delighted to take the busileases. ness back from son Mark The Delta Elevator has and his wife Laura. endured and become a Declining health has fixture in the community. him again weighing his When Esplin purchased options, he says. the business, it was con“We will continue to structed entirely of wood, serve our customers as from the decking around we have done for the past the scales to the feed 44 years until the busibins that contained corn, ness is sold,” he promoats, wheat and barley. ises. “We’re going to try Over the years, he erectto sell it to somebody who ed metal bins, updated will take care of our cusequipment and laid concrete pads. He tore out the rail siding because he quit shipping grain out of the area when Foster Farms established its poultry facilities in Delta and Montrose counties. He has developed a close partnership with Foster Mills, bagging and distributing the poultry feeds and supplements the firm mixes in the iconic silos next to Confluence Park. Like Foster Farms, Bob contracts with a number of growers in the area. After they deliver the grain, it’s “scalped” to take out the foreign materials. It then goes through a steam chamber where it’s partially cooked, then rolled to break the outer covering to make the grain more digestible. Steam rolling is an expensive process, Bob explains. “I think we’re the last ones on the Western Slope that does that.” After drying and coolPhoto submitted This photo of the Delta Elevator, located at 551 W. ing, the grain goes into a 5th Street, was taken shortly after Bob and Laurie makeup bin. It’s then funneled into the mixer, proEsplin purchased the business in 1974.

BY PAT SUNDERLAND Managing Editor

tomers.” When originally established, the business was known as the Colorado Milling & Elevator Company. When Esplin came along in 1974, it was owned by Elevators Inc. and its 10 stockholders. Bob says he felt mighty lonely at the closing, facing the 10 stockholders, their attorney and their accountant. Esplin had moved to western Colorado to work for the Morton Salt Company. After three years he went into business for himself. He later purchased the Mesa Flour Mill, formerly Mesa Feed, in Grand Junction. He recalls he and a partner were poised to open a new feed mill when the business burned to the ground on April 9, 1974. Fortunately, the business

portioned to the desired nutrient level. No medications or steroids are injected into the feeds during the process, and for the past year, Delta Elevator has used only non-GMO corn. There’s a mash side to the business, as well, which involves grinding grain for poultry and swine. “We cater to the small customer,” Esplin says. “They pull in, we load on the feed they want, we weigh it out and they settle up.” Bob says the elevator has supported his large family, and allowed him to buy a home and a

small farm. But all 11 of his grown children are established in their own careers; none are inter-

Bob Esplin

ested in taking over the operation. Son Bobby works at the elevator, but rooms filled with deer and elk mounts attest to his talent as a taxidermist. Bobby’s wife Francesca handled the books for the business. “These are the finest people in the world I trade with, but I’m just too old to be messing around in this business any more,” Bob says. His pulmonologist urges him to stay away from the dust, but that’s easier said than done in a grain elevator. “We thank our customers and suppliers over these many good years.”

A Kidz Clinic named health care innovator A Kidz Clinic was accepted into the Colorado State Innovation Model (SIM), a federally funded, governor’s office initiative that helps primary care providers deliver whole-person care. It is one of five practices in Delta County to be accepted into the federally funded, governor’s office initiative, which runs through July 2019. “SIM providers in these cohorts must focus on the entire patient, which means addressing mind, body and mental wellness,” said Donna Lynne, lieutenant governor and chief operating officer, who has many years of leadership experience in the health care sector. “That complete approach to health is what makes the SIM initiative so valuable. Patients get the care they need when they need it, and providers learn how to succeed with new payment models. It’s a great example of meaningful reform in our state.”

Patients interviewed by SIM staff notice and appreciate the work done by practices. “It’s powerful for me, as a patient, to land somewhere I feel well taken care of,” said Mary Catherine Conger, a patient at Roaring Fork Family Practice. Whole-Person Care Colorado was the only state (out of 11 selected for a SIM model test award) to focus on integrated behavioral and physical health care supported by public and private payers as its primary goal. The initiative helps providers progress along an integrated care path continuum that might start with referrals and could lead to co-location of behavioral and physical health professionals in primary care settings. Integrated care improves patient outcomes, reduces health care costs and enhances provider morale. About 1,847 SIM providers in cohorts 1-2 deliver care during 3,342,018 annual patient visits.

The efforts also benefit providers. “It’s energizing to give the kind of care you envision instead of being frustrated every day,” said Gary Knaus, MD, Roaring Fork Family Practice, a SIM cohort1 practice. “Somewhere in your gut you feel like, ‘God, I could do better.’ ” SIM launched with 100 practice sites in 2016, added 155 practices in 2017 and will help about 25 percent of the state’s primary care sites and four community mental health centers deliver whole-person care. Colorado will receive $65 million from the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) to implement this model for health care innovation, which is expected to save or avoid $126.6 million in health care costs for CMS with a 1.95 return on investment during its four-year time frame. Learn more at www. colorado.gov/health innovation.

Know Your Neighbor

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In & Out Driving School creates safe drivers of all ages

Paul Turner, a professional driver who spent years in the oil ﬁelds, is behind the wheel of a new venture — In & Out Driving School. In & Out began in Glenwood Springs and now serves the entire Western Slope under the name In & Out Driving School Grand Junction. All locations are family owned. In & Out driving school is owned by and employs retired law enforcement and other professional drivers with many years of trained defensive driving and a passion for safe driving. In & Out’s goal is in its mission statement: We create safe drivers. Services include driver education, road tests, driver evaluation, instructed driving lessons, and motorcycle testing and education. The company stresses safety while working with teens and their families as they progress from a written driving test, to their driver’s permit, to a GDL driver’s license. A comprehensive 30hour classroom course covers vehicle operations, sharing the roadway, handling emergencies, and driving under a variety of conditions, including adverse weather. The danger of distracted driving and driving under the inﬂuence of alcohol and other substances is stressed. After successfully completing a written test, the teen can then apply for a driver’s permit and begin logging

hours behind the wheel. A teen driver under the age of 18 has a number of restrictions on their driving privileges, all of which are carefully explained by Paul and his wife Vicki. Once in the car, the young drivers can put into practice the techniques they’ve learned in the classroom — parking maneuvers, stop sign procedures, lane change requirements, turning safety, intersection awareness

and more. The Colorado Graduated Driver’s License program is designed to give new drivers responsibility that matches their experience. The same information is available for adults and seniors who desire to refresh their knowledge. “We make ourselves as available as possible and take your safety to heart,” Paul says. Learn more at drivegj.com or call 970-424-7809.

Paul and Vicki Turner offer driver education and lessons in the Delta area. They work primarily with teens, but their services are available to drivers of all ages.

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

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NORTH FORK July 11, 2018

TIMES

Section

www.deltacountyindependent.com

Flash flood pours through Paonia Sunday BY TAMIE MECK Staff Writer

The recent evening rains have provided welcome relief from one of the driest seasons in recorded history, but Sunday night’s downpour in the Paonia area produced some not-so-welcome flooding that closed the trail loop at Paonia River Park and the Apple Valley Park tennis courts. It also serves as a reminder and a cautionary tale on the power of flash floods. The downpour, which started at about 5:30 p.m., unofficially dropped between one half and three quarters of an inch of rain within about a half hour. At the time, the 9News interactive weather radar map indicated heavy rains in the area. In minutes, rainwater carried debris off of Jumbo Mountain and into Minnesota Creek, which was already swollen from heavy rain falling east of town. Debris clogged the bridge at Pan American Avenue at Apple Valley Park, sending the creek over its banks and into

the park, and forcing water over the bridge deck. A private gate adjacent to Apple Valley Subdivision was temporarily opened to allow cars to exit via a gravel road leading to Vista Drive. “This isn’t the first time,“ said former town trustee Amber Kleinman, whose property borders Minnesota Creek near Apple Valley Park. Kleinman recalled a similar situation in 2012 when a flash flood hit the town over the Cherry Days weekend. Downstream, just above the confluence at North Fork of the Gunnison River at Paonia River Park, “Minnesota Creek over-topped its banks, flooding the United Gravel lot,” according to Alex Johnson with the Western Slope Conservation Center. The water, in turn, “drained across Paonia River Park Trail. Much higher, and it could have taken out our concrete bridge at the park.” As of Tuesday, the trail loop was closed for repairs, but the park remains open on the south side of the bridge.

Reports of other areas of flash flooding were posted to social media. Lynn Wetherall reported flooding at her property on Grand Avenue due to a clogged head gate on a ditch. Desirae Davis Vasquez and George Lawhorn posted images on Facebook after they were trapped up Minnesota Creek Road due to flash floods washing out segments of the road. “It was washed out in several spots for a quarter mile,” wrote Lawhorn. “I saw lots of rocks, tree branches and even a 500 gallon propane tank wash across the road.” After seeing the flooding at Apple Valley Park, Jill Knutson returned to her home on Vista Drive to find that debris was accumulating in the creek behind their house. “The force of the water blew me away,” said Knutson. A flash flood took out the bridge at Elderberry’s, wrote owner Lisa Ganora on Facebook. The bridge hung up with other debris, causing water to back up. Fearing a possible catastrophe, Knutson called

Photo by Tamie Meck

A ﬂash ﬂood sent Minnesota Creek over its banks Sunday evening at Apple Valley Park. Flood waters and debris caused problems in several locations in and around Paonia.

Photo by Tamie Meck

Wearing their muck boots, Paonia resident Chris Straub and son Ryan check out the debris piled up against the Pan American Avenue bridge over Minnesota Creek on Sunday night after ﬂash ﬂood waters resulting from heavy rains in the Paonia area had subsided. Delta County Dispatch. Paonia resident Naropa Sabine was at his parents’ house on Vista Drive when he heard “that sound... like a herd of elephants coming down the valley.” He and his mom went to the creek, and within about a minute, water rose a couple of feet, he said. As he watched huge logs being pushed “by the nose of the flood,” something caught his eye. “I looked up and saw what I literally thought was a manikin or a log,” he said. It was a man, covered in mud, and trying to yell. Within seconds he was out of sight. Without thinking, Sabine jumped on his bike and rode to a culvert about a block and a half away, grabbed some willow branches and waded into

A farmer’s life: From fire to flood BY PAT SUNDERLAND Managing Editor

Daniel Bolton was hauling a load of hay to his ranch on Powell Mesa Road outside of Hotchkiss when he looked in the mirror and saw 30-foot flames rolling off the back of his flatbed trailer. Glancing around, he saw nothing but cheat grass so he decided to continue up the road about a mile to his ranch. He figured the big parking lot would be a safer place to stop. So he continued up the road, with burning debris falling off his truck, hoping it wouldn’t catch the whole countryside on fire. When he drove into the yard, he hit the brakes on his semi so hard hay came raining down on top of the cab. “I couldn’t see anything but flames,” he said this week. He FIRE TO FLOOD TO B3

Photo submitted

After Daniel Bolton spotted ﬂames rolling off the stacks of hay on his ﬂatbed trailer, he continued a mile up the road to an open parking area on his ranch, away from the dry roadside vegetation.

the water, hoping to catch the man if he floated by. After a couple of minutes he realized the man either had passed or was stopped up above. At that point, said Sabine, he figured the man didn’t make it. Emergency vehicles arrived and for about 10 minutes “everyone was searching frantically for him,” said Sabine. The man had managed to pull himself out and emerged from Sabine’s mother’s back yard. He was treated at the scene, according to the Delta County Sheriff ’s Office. The Paonia Police Department, Paonia Fire Department, and North Fork Ambulance all assisted with the search. About as quickly as they rose, the flood waters subsided. Paonia Public Works crews were out late Sunday night and early Monday morning cleaning debris from Apple Valley Park and other locations. Flooding forced closure of the Apple Valley tennis courts until proper clean-up can take place, according to the North Fork Pool, Parks & Recreation District. People are asked to stay off of the courts and not attempt to help with clean-up efforts in order to prevent damage to the playing surface. (Ready.gov reminds citizens to familiarize themselves with flood risks in their area, monitor potential signs such as heavy rains, and have evacuation routes planned in advance. Just six inches of moving water is capable of knocking a person down, and a foot of moving water can sweep a vehicle away. People should stay off bridges over fast-moving water, move to higher ground, or floors if indoors, and to remain until all danger has passed. )

Traveler finds a home in Hotchkiss BY DON BENJAMIN Staff Writer

A decade ago somebody dumped a young dog in Hotchkiss. The abandoned animal quickly became a local celebrity as she swiftly eluded local citizens who tried to corral her. For three years the dog avoided capture. She established a familiar route between the town’s Willow Heights residential area on Barrow Mesa and the

Hotchkiss City Market. She kept on the move, scrupulously avoided humans, and grew increasingly adept at outwitting and outrunning her pursuers. Hotchkiss resident Sandy Wilson, who has since passed away, seemed to give voice to what her fellow townsfolk thought of the antics of the agile dog when she coined the name “Traveler.” Traveler was quick in a foot chase and skilled in avoid-

Photo by Don Benjamin

Traveler the dog survived being abandoned and losing her front paw in a car collision. She was an elusive stray before she showed up on a Hotchkiss woman’s doorstep seeking a safe place to have her puppies.

ing automobiles until one day her luck ran out. A car collision severed her front leg just above the wrist and left a gaping wound in her side. And still she ran — three legs, injured torso, and all. Debbie Faulkner of Black Canyon Animal Shelter remembers Traveler. “She holed up in a barn, and I was called. That’s when I saw her one leg hanging by a thread.” Still the dog resisted capture. It seemed like nothing and no one was going to stop Traveler until one day the limping dog approached Venetta Sickles’ front door and it was time to stop running. “She came up pregnant,” said Venetta, “But she wouldn’t come inside and she went and had her puppies in my old dog house.” To keep the squirming pups from following in their mother’s wandering paw-steps, Venetta’s neighbor helped erect a fence around the refurbished dog house. “That didn’t work,” Venetta smiled as she recalled how she and the neighbors kept busy rounding up the energetic critters. Eventually the puppies were weaned and Traveler took the next step.

“She was a good little mama to those five fat puppies,” Venetta recalled, “But she was pretty tuckered out and ready to accept my help. So she came to the door as usual and I gave her a bit of hamburger and when I offered her a second mouthful, she gave me that ‘look’ and walked into the house. And that was that.” Ann Wingfield is Venetta’s neighbor — a good friend whom Venetta describes as “my right hand and my left hand too most of the time.” Ann has watched Traveler and Venetta bond over the years. “The dog has been a good companion. A few years back, when Venetta had to go into a nursing home, Traveler ran off looking for her.” Traveler scrambled several blocks down the steep incline of Cedar Drive to the Hotchkiss senior center and then even further to Venetta’s son’s house — searching in places the dog associated with her absent mistress. Finally, Venetta’s son took the faithful dog to the nursing home. The two were reunited and they’ve been inseparable ever since. Venetta doesn’t drive much these days, but whenever she takes the car out, Traveler is

up for the journey. “She loves to r-i-d-e,” said Venetta as Traveler’s ears pricked up. “And when we’re out in town people ask ‘Is that the famous little dog?’ ” Venetta has lived in Hotchkiss since 1964. She used to live in the San Luis Valley and she worked as a nurse for several years. She’s retired now but it’s never a dull moment with Traveler around. For example, consider the famous dog’s current project. Traveler, a wanderer with plenty of experience as a vagabond, has adopted a stray kitten. Venetta named the kitten Scamper and Traveler has taken charge of the newest member of the Sickle household. “That little cat is convinced that Traveler is its mother. They sleep together every night,” Venetta smiled. Both animals, it seems, have found a home. But what about the famous dog’s puppies? Thanks to Venetta and Black Canyon Animal Sanctuary, all five have been adopted. And their wandering mother would be proud to know that her pups have been placed in good homes — all around the nation — at all points of the compass.

B2 Wednesday, July 11, 2018

CHERRY DAYS

Delta County Independent

Nora Dransﬁeld and Slater Podgorny were crowned King and Queen of the 72nd annual Cherry Days Festival. Each received a $1,000 scholarship from the Cherry Days Forever Committee. Other royalty members include Lene Meneley, Tess Gore, Jaden Miller and Derek Holt.

Klara Kiss, center, Sonora Shishim (right) and Willow Rutledge (left) walk on stilts as part of the Arts for All Cherry Days Parade entry. Arts for All is a collaboration of The Learning Council, Blue Sage Center for the Arts and Mountain Harvest Creative and offers artistic enrichment for North Fork Valley students.

By the look on his face, Cherry Days Cherry Baking Contest judge Chris Stansﬁeld is enjoying one of the many contest entries.

U.S. Forest Service ranger Barrett Funka parades a team of pack mules and horses down Grand Avenue. Out of 49 parade entries, the Forest Service entry, including Woodsy Owl, Smoky the Bear and more, won ﬁrst place.

Pulled by a team of North American spotted draft horses Stella and Trixie, Grand Marshal Ulli Lange rides shotgun with owner/driver Brett Barker in the 72nd annual Cherry Days Parade. Lange is also a member of the Cherry Days Committee and has overseen the parade the past six years.

Led by one of Marla Bear Bishop’s goats, the North Fork Valley Community Parade Band placed third in the 72nd annual Cherry Days Parade.

Photos by Tamie Meck

Mike Haskell of Paonia sends wood ﬂying during the Cherry Days wood splitting contest. The winner took home the Fiskars axe used in the competition.

Following a two-year hiatus, the Coal Shoveling Contest returned to Cherry Days. Edgar Martinez and Antonio Mora, who last won in 2015, shoveled a ton of coal into the hopper in an unbelievable 50.67 seconds for the win.

Bromigos Bill Bartlett plays electric guitar on the Howard Berkman Stage at Paonia Town Park during Cherry Days. The Bromigos (Bartlett Don Newbury, Ray Taylor, David Snider and Bobby Walker) weren’t scheduled to play, but stepped in at the last minute after Gypsy Whisky canceled, wowing the audience with rock ‘n’ roll and R&B tunes.

From left, Misha Lawley, Carmen Torgler and Laura Northrop (with son Bohdin) took ﬁrst, third and fourth at the annual Cherry Days Cherry Baking Contest on July 4. Cyndi Wegner (not shown) placed second.

Twila Beason keeps four hula hoops going at once during the Cherry Days festivities.

A new addition to Cherry Days, the Costume Contest was won by Paonia native Carmen Rodriquez, who came dressed as “Betsy the Freedom Fairy of the West.”

During the Paonia Chamber of Commerce Downtown Day, volunteers Jennifer Boren and Roy Graham grilled up brats and hot dogs during First State Bank’s annual customer appreciation day. About 30 businesses participated in the annual downtown celebration.

NORTH FORK TIMES

Delta County Independent

Wednesday, July 11, 2018

Fire to flood FROM PAGE B1 called the DCI to clarify a report in the July 4 law enforcement blotter which erroneously stated he did not possess a CDL license. Delta County Sheriff Fred McKee confirms that information was not correct; Bolton was properly licensed. He was also thinking very clearly. He jumped out of the cab and unloaded his skid steer. When the fire spread to a nearby draw, he grabbed a broom and smothered the flames. His 86-yearold neighbor and his son

showed up with fire extinguishers, and Hotchkiss firefighters finished the job, but not before the fire destroyed a portion of a neighbor’s plastic fence. “It was like driving a torch,” Bolton said of the 20-foot flatbed full of hay behind him. The semi and the flatbed are a total loss. “But at least I didn’t burn my neighbors up,” Bolton said. “The firefighters said it’s a good thing I didn’t park at the bottom, because I could have caught all the cheat grass

Photo submitted

Music at the library

Week six of Paonia Library’s summer concert series features folk singer-songwriter Ellen Stapenhorst performing “Songs of Protest, Songs of Peace” Tuesday, July 17, at 6:30 p.m. Born at the center of the 20th century, Ellen learned early the power of music to touch and move people. From the civil rights, peace, women’s and environmental movements to the issues of today, she’s been singing and writing as if our lives depend on it. The evening will include personal stories as well as a historical perspective from living through times of great change, and hanging out with folks like Phil Ochs, Jackson Browne, Buffy Ste. Marie and John Denver. Their songs and many others that helped inspire movements will be part of this musical retrospective. Picnic and takeout dinners are welcome.

Photo submitted

Over the weekend, heavy rains poured through leased ranchland up Minnesota Creek.

Volunteers wanted for July 14 trail work day gan at the Western Slope Conservation Center 970527-5307 x206, or email holly@theconservation center.org.

Photo submitted

Volunteers and Forest Service employees install a bridge over a muddy trail at a 2017 trail work day in the Gunnison National Forest.

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Potluck at Crawford Library A piñata and potluck celebrating the end of the summer reading program, and the 10th anniversary of the Crawford Library building, will be Thursday, July 26, 5:30 p.m. at Crawford Library.

The DCI has an opening for a part-time reporter/photographer to cover Hotchkiss and Crawford. This position involves weekend/weeknight coverage and occasional travel, so a reliable vehicle is a must. You’ll also need a camera (not just your phone). Stories can be written at home but must be submitted Monday morning for inclusion in the weekly Wednesday paper.

INDEPENDENT

ed a 2017 Forest Service Volunteers & Service Leadership Award. The agency-wide award program recognizes partners, volunteers and

be accompanied by a parent/guardian. For more information or to register your interest, please contact Mor-

GET ENGAGED IN YOUR COMMUNITY!

DELTA COUNTY

staff for their work in the areas of Citizen Stewardship & Partnerships, Cultural Diversity, Enduring Service, Leadership and Restoration. Through Kimpling’s leadership the GMUG has been able to engage with key partners and secure funding for programs that involve youth, such as Every Kid in a Park (EKIP) and the 21st Century Conservation Corps (21CSC). As the crew leader of the Paonia Ranger District’s Youth Conservation Corps (YCC), Paul collaborated with 21CSC member organizations, Western Colorado Conservation Corps and Student Conservation Corps, on joint projects showing the collective power of youth leading youth. Photo courtesy U.S. Forest Service He also coordinated From the left are GMUG Deputy Forest Supervisor with Forest Service and Chad Stewart, Paul Kimpling and GMUG Forest Bureau of Land ManageSupervisor Scott Armentrout. ment Resource Special-

The USFS and Western Slope Conservation Center are teaming up to host a trail work day on the Cliff Creek Trail on July 14. It will be a great opportunity to get your hands dirty, help maintain a popular local trail, and meet people from both organizations. Volunteers will be building a turnpike to help trail users navigate a wet area of trail. They will also be performing other basic trail maintenance and brushing. Meet at the Forest Service office, 430 Rio Grande Avenue in Paonia. The Conservation Center will provide lunch, protective equipment, and tools to all volunteers. To participate, you must wear sturdy closed-toed shoes or boots. A light-weight long sleeved shirt, pants, hat and sunscreen are highly recommended. Participants are responsible for bringing their own water. All ages are welcome — minors must

to another. Two weeks after the hay fire on June 29, his leased ranchland up Minnesota Creek was hit by heavy rainfall. The July 8 cloudburst brought rocks and water tumbling through the ranch. “It’s all in a farmer’s day,” he said.

To apply, email editor@ deltacountyindependent.com

Paul Kimpling earns GMUG award Paul Kimpling, of the Grand Mesa, Uncompahgre and Gunnison (GMUG) National Forests’ Paonia Ranger District has been award-

on fire. With this weather that we have, it’s pretty scary. ” Bolton said the cause of the fire is not known; he theorizes that carbon from the exhaust may have fallen onto the hay. Last weekend, Bolton went from one extreme

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ists to share their natural resource expertise with the YCC in a variety of disciplines as well as organizing a rafting trip to a unique archeological site. “Paul’s drive and natural leadership has led to implementation of new partnerships and programs aimed at educating our local youth, ” said Scott Armentrout, GMUG Forest Supervisor. “We are extremely pleased to have him on our team”

B4 Wednesday, July 11, 2018

NORTH FORK TIMES

Delta County Independent

What’s up at your library?

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

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. Invent and Create Instruments Maker Space. Kids are invited to Cedaredge Library to use everyday materials to invent and make an instrument. Transform coffee cans, juice containers, pop bottles, toilet paper rolls, rubber bands, and more into a musical masterpiece! All supplies provided. July 10-14 during library hours. Garage Band 101. Teens are invited to Cedaredge Library to learn the basics of Garage Band, a program that lets you turn your computer into a recording studio. Thursday, July 12, at 2 p.m. Bringing Books to Life Through Song. David Starr brings his grandfather, Fred Starr’s, novel “Of What Was, Nothing is Left” to life during this unique performance at Grand Mesa Arts & Events Center. Thursday, July 12, at 7 p.m. Blackout Poetry Maker Space. Teens are invited to Cedaredge Library to try blackout poetry. Blackout poetry, also known as erasure, is the process of taking pages from discarded books and “blacking out” sections on the page to create a line of prose with the remaining words. You never know what you will end up with when you pick up a page and

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Dorinda Rouch, MD

Allan Miller, MD

Medical Oncologist Medical Oncologist Hematologist Hematologist 12 years Oncology Physician 41 years Oncology Physician

Helen Goldberg, MD Medical Oncologist Integrative Oncologist 24 years Oncology Physician

Our goal is to provide the most exceptional and holistic care to all our patients and caregivers by focusing on the physical, mental, emotional and spiritual aspects of each patient. We oﬀer complimentary and wellness services including Yoga, Tai Chi, Massage and Art Therapy, Nature Journaling and Support Groups.

�� For appointments call

(970) 399-2895 ��

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begin connecting words! July 17-21 during library hours. Fly Fishing 101. The Nature Connection is offering a Fly Fishing 101 program for sixtheighth graders out of its gear hub at Cedaredge Library. David Holt, Cedaredge resident and fly fishing master, will teach the introductory class. Participants will meet at Cedaredge Library at 9:30 a.m. on Friday, July 27, and then head up to the Grand Mesa for a two-hour workshop. A $5 registration fee includes fishing gear and transportation from the library. Comfortable outdoor clothing and hiking/tennis shoes are a must. Bring your own water, sunscreen, sun hat, snacks and bug spray! Register in person at Cedaredge Library by July 20. Summer Reading Finale: Popsicle Party! Bring the entire family to celebrate the end of the summer reading program with popsicles, games, and more. Be prepared to get wet in water balloon games. Thursday, July 26, at 2 p.m. at Cedaredge Town Park. July StoryWalk®. The July StoryWalk® book on the Surface Creek Trail is “America the Beautiful” by Katharine Lee Bates, illustrated by Chris Gall. From his unique perspective as the great-greatgrandnephew of Katharine Lee Bates, Chris Gall transforms this beloved patriotic song into monumental work of art. Sing along as you read the StoryWalk® book on the Surface Creek Trail in July. 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. Crawford Storytimes. Storytimes for babies, tots and preschoolers are Thursdays starting at 10:30 a.m. Contact the library at 399-7783 for details. Scavenger Hunt. Bring the entire family to Crawford Library to embark on a scavenger hunt around town! Pick up a map of clues during library hours and begin hunting for the mystery items. July 11-14. Music at the Library. Bring the entire family to Crawford Library to enjoy piano music and songs by Forrest Eckstein and David Hauze. Wednesday, July 18, at 10:30 a.m. Summer Reading Final Party: Piñata and Potluck. Bring the entire family to celebrate the 10th anniversary of the Crawford Library building and the finale of the 2018 summer reading program. Bring your favorite dish to share. Tableware and drinks will be provided. Piñata for the kids! Thursday, July 26, at 5:30 p.m. at Crawford Library. 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. Music Creatures Maker Space. Kids are invited to Delta Library to create an animal or creature using recycled CDs. July 12-18 during

library hours. Neon Blackout Poetry. Teens are invited to create neon blackout poetry that will light up the room at the July 26 black light party! Thursday, July 12, at 2 p.m. Neon Blackout Poetry Maker Space. If you missed the program, the corresponding maker space will run July 16 -21 during library hours. Read and Dance with Linda Dysart. Linda brings the words of a story to life through dance and music. Thursday, July 19, at 2 p.m. Delta Book Club. This month we will be discussing “Colossus: Hoover Dam and the Making of the American Century” by Michael Hiltzik. Saturday, July 21, at 1 p.m. “Books in a Tent” Book Sale. The Friends of the Delta Library are hosting a book sale in conjunction with Deltarado Days on Wednesday, July 25, and Thursday, July 26. A great selection of books and other materials will be for sale under a tent on the library lawn during library hours. For more information or to volunteer to help with the sale, please contact the library at 874-9630. Kids’ Final Party. Celebrate the end of summer reading with homemade ice cream and water balloon games. Thursday, July 26, at 2 p.m. Teen Final Party. Celebrate the end of the summer reading program at Delta Library with a black light party. Enjoy pizza and games under a black light. Find out if you are the winner of a final prize drawing! Thursday, July 26, at 2 p.m. Music in the Library. Patrons are invited to Delta Library for a performance of the Delta/Grand Junction Women’s Choir. Saturday, July 28, from 1 to 2 p.m. in the circulation area upstairs. Talk & Tangle Yarn. This is a group of knit and crochet enthusiasts who get together to talk and work on their individual projects. Anyone is welcome to join. Mondays starting at 5:30 p.m. Hotchkiss Storytimes. Baby, tot and preschooler storytimes are Wednesdays starting at 10:30 a.m. Contact the library at 399-7781 for details. Musical Instrument Maker Space. Kids are invited to Hotchkiss Library to make a musical instrument to take home using found and recycled items. July 9-12 during library hours. LEGO Rock Star Maker Space. Teens are invited to transform an ordinary LEGO character into a LEGO rock star! July 16-19 during library hours. Discover Music. Kids are invited to explore different types of music and music genres. Learn about music from different cultures and time periods. Presented by local musician Andrew Zerr. Tuesday, July 17, at 2 p.m. Music in the Library. The entire family will enjoy a diverse line up of musicians featuring a variety of styles and instrumentation. Wednesday, July 18, from 1 to 5 p.m. Reading Summer Finale: Water Games! Bring the entire family to the fairgrounds in Hotchkiss to celebrate the end of summer reading program with fun water games! Don’t forget to turn in your reading log for a free T-shirt! Wednesday, July 25, at 2 p.m. at the Delta County Fairgrounds. Paonia Storytimes. Baby, tot and preschooler storytimes are Tuesdays starting at 10:30 a.m. Contact library at 399-7881 for details. 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. Musical Mad Lib Maker Space. Kids are invited to Paonia Library to try out a musical mad lib at the maker station. June 28-July 19 during library hours. Practical Skill and Original Songs for Emotional Health. Adults and teens are invited to Paonia Library for a fun and experiential presentation of stories, activities and original songs that will teach you mindfulness skills you can use to enhance your life. Taught by Deborah Spiegel, a trained DBT skills group leader and a certified music, hypno and clinical therapist. Wednesday, July 11, at 6 p.m. Words and Music Maker Space. Kids are invited to Paonia Library to complete a musical word game at the maker station. July 12-19 during library hours. Art of Rock Maker Space. Teens are invited to Paonia Library to create a mock music poster for their favorite band. July 13-27 during library hours. Go Bananas with Coding. Teens are invited to Paonia Library to set up, code and play a piano made of bananas. Participants can test their knowledge of musical notes and pitches. All supplies and banana splits provided. Friday, July 13, at 2 p.m. Music in the Amphitheater. Week six of Paonia Library’s summer concert series features folk singer-songwriter Ellen Stapenhorst performing her “Songs of Protest, Songs of Peace.” Picnic and takeout dinners are welcome. Tuesday, July 17, at 6:30 p.m. Music Madness. Kids are invited to Paonia Library for stories, songs and lots of fun! Thursday, July 19, at 2 p.m. Knit Crochet Day. Enjoy the camaraderie of fellow knitters and crocheters; share projects and browse our library of craft books for use or purchase. Always tea and cookies too! Saturday, July 21, at noon. Music in the Amphitheater. Paonia Library’s summer concert series features Melanie Jean, joined in the second half by The Scones. Picnic and takeout dinners are welcome. Tuesday, July 24, at 6:30 p.m. Summer Reading Finale: Wet and Wild Party! Bring the entire family to Paonia Library for an afternoon of fun water games and a popsicle snack! Thursday, July 26, at 2 p.m.

Open house at Barkin’ Bargains Barkin’ Bargains Thrift Store will host a grand opening and open house from 4-6 p.m. Saturday, July 14, at its new location at 213 Grand Avenue in Paonia. Proceeds from Barkin’ Bargains sales support CAWS (Citizens for Animal Welfare and Shelter), which provides services that support the health and well-being of cats and dogs in the North Fork Valley. “We’re hoping for lots of people,” said CAWS board president Erica Howard. In addition to shopping, the event includes free drawings for dog and cat goodies, refreshments, and a one-time opportunity to see where the new emergency housing for dogs and cats will be built. A lot of work has gone into preparing the new store, said Howard, and all of it was done by “an army of volunteers” from the community.

AGRICULTURE

Delta County Independent

Wednesday, July 11, 2018

Senior Hikers tackle a trail restoration project on July 4 Working with the U.S. Forest Service, the Cedaredge Senior Hikers are making the Rim View Trail, located near Anderson Lake #2 off of the Land’s End Road, much easier to follow and enjoy. The group is relocating signs and adding cairns to the existing trail. This project is being undertaken in honor of Mel Edmunds. The trail skirts the lake, crosses a nice meadow, and drops down to the Glacier Springs Cutoff Trail. The Glacier Springs Cutoff Trail, which is also being adopted by the group, Photo courtesy Jude Kieca end up near the Mesa Cedaredge Senior Hikers, from the left, David Blanchett, Marv Kieca, Rex Lakes area. Hopefully Repogle, Pete Brown, Esther Miller and Sue Hicks spend July 4 wielding their the work will be done by tools to improve the Rim View Trail on the Grand Mesa National Forest. this fall.

County Council reminds 4-H’ers of important dates The following was discussed at the Monday, July 9, meeting at the Maloney House in Hotchkiss: • The Delta County Fair is Aug. 5-12. VIP wristbands are on sale now at the Delta County Extension Office. These bands grant access to all events throughout the fair. Prices are $25 for youth and $30 for adults (12 and up). • The fair schedule is available online at delta countyfair.com or at the Extension Office. • The Fashion Review is Thursday, July 19, at the Delta Center for Performing Arts, 822 Grand Avenue, Delta. • The shooting competition is Saturday, July 21, at the Delta County 4H Range in Eckert. Those

who are competing must bring their record books. They need to be at least 70 percent complete and signed by a 4-H leader. • The 4-H Club Wall decorating party is Friday, Aug. 3, beginning at 6 p.m. in Heritage Hall on the fairgrounds in Hotchkiss. • We will not be doing a barbecue at the fair this year. • Any projects going to the Colorado State Fair must be turned in to the Extension Office by Aug. 13, the Monday after county fair. • County council elections are in our September meeting. Have a happy and fun fair season! Drew Harris Delta 4-H County Council Reporter

Nature Connection offers Fly Fishing 101 at Cedaredge Library The Nature Connection is offering a Fly Fishing 101 program for sixth-eighth graders out of its gear hub at Cedaredge Library. David Holt, Cedaredge resident and fly fishing master, will teach the introductory class. Participants will meet at Cedaredge Library at 9:30 a.m. on Friday, July 27, then head up to the Grand Mesa for a two-hour workshop. A $5 registration fee

includes fishing gear and transportation from the library. Registration is required for this class, no later than July 20. Comfortable outdoor clothing and hiking/tennis shoes are a must. Bring your own water, sunscreen, sun hat, snacks and bug spray. Call Cedaredge Library at 399-7674 for more information. Register in person at Cedaredge Library by July 20.

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For a quote on all your printing needs call Randy Crespin at 874-4421.

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B6 Wednesday, July 11, 2018

SPORTS

SPORTS July 11, 2018

Delta County Independent

www.deltacountyindependent.com

How Paonia’s football field got its name BY TAMIE MECK DCI Sports Writer

Did you know that the football field at Paonia Town Park actually has a name? In a history of the field compiled by former town trustee David Bradford, in 1922, Violet M. and Harold C. Clark agreed to sell the parcel that would become Paonia Town Park to the town for $10,000. On May 15, 1924, a warranty deed transferring the land from the Clarks to the town was filed. On Nov. 12, 1936, Paonia High School’s then football and baseball field was dedicated to Daniel E. Lawrence, a former football coach and teacher at Paonia High School. A boulder with a modest brass plaque rests at the north end of the field. A December 2012 back page story by former DCI sports writer Eric Goold provided a brief history of Lawrence and his time at PHS. The years 1923-1929 and 1933-1937 are known as “the Dan Lawrence Years.” “On Nov. 1, 1923, we got the first glimpse of what Paonia could be when coach Dan Lawrence and the Paonia High School

football team demolished Delta by a score of 45-0,” wrote Goold. On Sept. 2, 1926, Lawrence told the Paonian newspaper that he expected a good season. It turned out to be an “epic year for Paonia football ... The Western Slope Conference was played out to a three-way tie between Paonia, Delta and Grand Junction. Each team played two full quarters against each of the others, making a complete game for each team, with 15-minute intermissions. “A special train took fans to Grand Junction on Dec. 3, where the tangle was ironed out. Fans bought roundtrip tickets to Grand Junction from Paonia for $2.50. Tickets to the game were 75 cents. Among players were Paul Hofer, Clayton Cox, Bob Clements, Phil Rule, Bill McMichael, Kenneth Grove, Ray Parks, Don Dickson, Alfred Bennett, Jim Haley, Glen Allison, Kenneth Carnine and Claude Snook. “In the first game, Grand Junction beat Delta, 32-0. The second game resulted in a Paonia 6-0 triumph over Grand Junction. And in the third and final game, Paonia beat Delta, 13-0,” for the championship.

Paonia native Lynne Bear found through Ancestry.com that Lawrence died Nov. 13, 1973. At the Sept. 27, 1975 homecoming, a rededication of the field was held as part of the Homecoming Week festivities. Students participated in the annual “Dan Lawrence Parade,” and 18 freshmen jammed into a VW Bug “under the light of the Spirit Fire.” During the celebration, “some wellmeaning fans absconded with the team’s Victory Bell,” which to this day is rung at Eagles football games. Lawrence also rekindled friendships with some of his past players. While it was a grand celebration, the Eagles “bowed to the GVL (Grand Valley League) champion Cedaredge Cubs, 44-0.” The Eagles went on to win numerous league titles, including state championships in 1959, 2014 and 2015. Bear, whose mother was born in Paonia in 1891, suggested that with this year’s removal of the old baseball facility at Dan Lawrence Field, and with the many changes occurring in the community, perhaps in the near future another re-dedication would be appropriate.

Photo by Tamie Meck

An inconspicuous brass plaque dedicating the football ﬁeld at Paonia Town Park to Dan Lawrence sits at the north end of the ﬁeld. A rededication ceremony was held in 1975 during Paonia High School homecoming week. Is it time for another rededication?

Third annual Bulldog Scramble on July 14 The Third Annual Bulldog Booster Club 18-Hole Golf Scramble will be hosted by Devil’s Thumb Golf Club on Saturday, July 14. Registration is set for 7:30 to 8:00 a.m. at the clubhouse with a shotgun start to begin play set for 9:00 a.m. There is a $75 fee per person, with a maximum number of four players per team. The format for the

tournament is an 18-hole best ball scramble. Fees include green fees, cart, a bucket of range balls and lunch. Prizes will be awarded to the tournament’s first place team, longest drive and closest to the pin. Players may purchase mulligans with a limit of four per team. Following the conclusion of tournament play there will be a raffle. Participants may purchase

tickets for $5 apiece or $20 for five tickets. Photo submitted All proceeds go to the Bulldog Booster Club, The Warriors were this year’s winner of the second annual July 4th North Fork which supports all pro- Horse Patrol mud volleyball tournament. This year’s cash prize was $400. grams and organizations at Hotchkiss High School. To sign up for this tournament, please call Devil’s Thumb Golf Course at 970-874-6262. For more information, or to donate a raffle item, Delta High School tions are to be concluded Lunch will be provided contact Curtis Hintz at Alumni Association is by July 26. Call Dwain by Needle Rock Brewing 970-216-0273. sponsoring this year’s Bush at 970-209-1530 or Company following play. Deltarado Days Golf Ken at Devil’s Thumb at Other sponsors for Scramble hosted by Dev- 970-874-6262 to reserve this year’s tournament il’s Thumb Golf Club. a spot. include Clubb’s, Bank Players will begin their There are special priz- of the West (BNP PARIquest for bragging rights es for teams comprised BAS) and Needle Rock and a variety of prizes of all Delta High School Brewing Company. July 29 with a shotgun Alumni. Other speciality Money raised from start at 9 a.m. Sign-in prizes are offered for long tournament play will course on every hole drive, closest to the pin, be used for graduating on the back nine where begins at 8 a.m. Play format is a scram- longest putt, hole in one senior scholarships, DHS everyone in the family AP Testing Program, (adults and kids) play for ble with four-man teams and team prizes. Players may purchase youth activity projects $20. Hansen called the ($65 each player) vying and classroom supplies. special par three course for top honors. Registra- Mulligans for $5 each. the Green Lizard (which was designed by the Cedaredge Ladies Club). A Couples Nine and Dine day is a growing program where couples play nine holes of golf and dine following play (including cart fees and dinner) for $29. Other specials at Cedaredge include discounts for military personnel and a Drought Special where one can play 18 holes of golf with a cart for $30. To view the full spectrum of events available at Cedaredge Golf Club go to cedaredgegolf.com

Deltarado Days Golf Scramble July 29

Cedaredge Golf Course offers summer of fun There has been a steady flow of golfers of all ages at Cedaredge Golf Course in an otherwise stressful time for new golf professional Erik Hansen and his wife Tara. As many know, the community of Cedaredge has been under a water restriction recently and the local golf course was not spared from the parching heat and winds of a nasty drought. Hansen admits the beginning of a week is usually a slow time for the course and the drought has affected the number of players, but the stream of daily golfers has remained somewhat steady. Cedaredge offers a Men’s Club on Monday, Wednesday and Fridays (open to all) and has had

18-24 players throughout the summer. It also offers an 8:30 a.m. Birdies’ Club for women only; beginners and intermediates may attend free clinics to begin the day prior to random pairings for scramble play. Newcomers are welcome. A program for juniors has entertained between 14 and 30 players on Tuesdays from 3:30-5 p.m. Hansen notes he has the young players on the driving range for instruction for approximately 45 minutes and then takes the players out on the course for 45 minutes of actual playing time. Another new program Hansen has promoted is a Family Night on weekend afternoons, which features a par three

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Photo by Wayne Crick

Erik Hansen replaced the retiring Larry Murphy as Cedaredge Golf Course’s Photo by Wayne Crick golf professional and Tara and Pete Siegmund of Grand Junction posed for this picture after comis striving to provide a pleting play on number nine in Cedaredge. The couple plays in Cedaredge two variety of fun activities. or three times a year and have enjoyed their visits.

SURFACE CREEK July 11, 2018

NEWS

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www.deltacountyindependent.com

Community fair celebrates Cedaredge this Saturday Find vendors in town park, yard sale at town’s public works parking lot Cedaredge is rolling out the welcome mat on Saturday, July 14, for the Celebrate Cedaredge community fair and community yard sale and flea market. Both events run from 9 a.m to 3 p.m. If you are a yard sale junkie, make sure to stop at the community yard sale and flea market, which will take place at the town’s public works parking lot, located at 160 SE High Country Avenue (across from Cedaredge Foodtown). You can shop several yard sales/flea market booths at once! Vendor spots are still available for the yard sale; spots are just $10 for a 10 x 10 space. Contact town hall at 856-3123 for more info. At town park, vendors will be set up offering everything from barbecue and wine samples to handcrafted art and antique jewelry. Many local civic organizations will also be on hand offering kids crafts and games, tasty treats and information about services offered in the Surface Creek area. Vendor spots are still available for this as well, and civic organizations based in the Surface Creek are no charge (but you are required to register). Matt and Phil Sheader, owners of The Old Slaughterhouse Music Hall, are providing live musical entertainment throughout the day at

the park. The Sheaders have their own band, the Slaughterhouse Butchers, but they will welcome other musical guests to the stage throughout the day, playing everything from country and oldies to punk and rock — there is sure to be something to please everyone! Matt and Phil also teach music lessons, and they’ll welcome some of their students to the stage to showcase their newfound skills. Also sharing the stage will be students from In Step Dance Academy showing off their ballroom dancing skills. In Step will also have a booth at the event, so after you see the dancers and are wowed by their skills, you can visit instructor Deb Aspen to learn about classes! VFW Post #9221 will post the colors at 10 a.m. on the bandstand stage, and will retire the colors at 2:30 p.m. The town’s Historic Preservation Board will present

five new historic properties with plaques on the bandstand at noon. Members of the board will also be on hand to talk about how to get your business or residence placed on the local register of historic buildings. Several businesses in town are planning special sales or sidewalk sales on Saturday as well. “There is a lot going on in Cedaredge, and we hope visitors and locals alike can join us in celebrating community and country on July 14,” said Kami Collins with the Town of Cedaredge. “This weekend will be a great opportunity to try a new restaurant, explore the shops and art galleries, score some deals at the flea market or pick up a treasure at one of the vendors at town park.” The events are co-sponsored and co-organized by the Town of Cedaredge and the Cedaredge Area Chamber of Commerce.

Photo by Don Benjamin

Night on the Town

Throughout the evening of June 30, Chirp Roderick of Hotchkiss played old favorites for Pioneer Town visitors. Singing along were Magi Weger and Richard Cartin of Cedaredge. A frequent performer at Pioneer Town, pianist Roderick is a member of the Surface Creek Valley Historical Society.

Pondy owners are cancer warriors BY DON BENJAMIN Staff Writer

D.J. and Barb Hladik are cancer warriors, which is to say that they fight for those impacted by one of the world’s most pernicious diseases. The American Cancer Society figures that newly diagnosed cancer cases will exceed 1.7 million in 2018 and the society estimates that as many as 609,640 cancer patients will die this year — a figure that exceeds the entire population of Baltimore, Md. Those are staggering numbers

Bound for the county fair

but the dedicated couple, who own and operate The Pondy in downtown Cedaredge, take a focused approach. They deal with cancer one person at a time. Over the last three years, with the help of a core group of good people plus a lot of volunteers, events sponsored by The Pondy have raised over $50,000 for cancer patients. This year they are helping six-year-old Quinten Christian who has been diagnosed with neuroblastoma. That’s a fancy name for a very rare

Photo by Don Benjamin

While members of the Cedaredge Area Chamber of Commerce mingled in the background at the July 5 Business After Hours event at Pioneer Town, entrants in the upcoming Delta County Fair proudly posed with their animals. Shyler Walker (left) will be showing her lamb, A.J., and Charley Perkins will show her goat, Timothy. Both girls are from Cedaredge. Members of the Delta County Fair Board were on hand to talk about the many facets of the county fair, and to invite people to attend the 133th annual fair at the county fairgrounds in Hotchkiss Aug. 5-12. A full schedule is available at deltacountyfair.com or on the fair Facebook page.

type of cancerous tumor that attacks the nerve cells, mostly in young children. It’s aggressive and painful. Treatment is intense and expensive. The Hladiks have partnered with Quinten’s family to raise funds to help with the cost of treatment. Their plan involves three events. First a benefit Mexican food meal was held at The Pondy on Thursday, June 29. Next “A Day for Quinten” is scheduled for this coming Saturday on Grand Mesa. And a final event will take place on Aug. 4 during the Celebrate Cedaredge event held in town park. The July 14 fundraiser invites lovers of the Grand Mesa to register at 9 a.m. at a location on the northern reaches of Surface Creek Road. Follow the signs from town or these directions: From the stop light in Cedaredge, travel north on Highway 65 3.5 miles to Ute Trail. Turn right, traveling 1.6 miles to Surface Creek. Turn left and it’s 3.9 miles to the event location. Registering individuals pay $20 for a chance to win prizes in a poker draw to be held at 4 p.m. that same day. While awaiting the draw, donors are invited to leave their vehicles in a secure parking location and enjoy the mesa by hiking, biking or fishing. Upon returning, registrants will draw for the best poker hand. A barbecue will be served beginning at 4 p.m., with all proceeds going to the fundraiser. The cost is $10 per plate and $6 for 12 and under. The final event in the Pondy’s benefit series, “A Walk for Quinten,” will take place on Saturday, Aug. 4, as part of the Celebrate Cedaredge event in town park. The August fundraiser involves sponsored walkers and a silent auction. Details of this event can be obtained at The Pondy during regular business hours or at its booth in the park in August. The Pondy has been a Cedaredge institution since 1984 when D.J. and Barb opened the establishment as “The Ponderosa.” Later, when the couple received their bythe-drink license, they rechristened it “The New Ponderosa.” For a while, the couple

leased the place to others who re-named it “The Blue Sky.” Then D.J. and Barb returned as owners and settled on “The Pondy,” a customer nickname that prevailed even when the sign outside on Main Street declared the full “Ponderosa” title. There have been changes over the years. The old 45-rpm jukebox has been replaced by a new state-of-the-art touchtunes machine. The pool tables have been upgraded along with the dartboards. And, in 1987, the couple purchased the building next door and remodeled it into a second bar, dance hall, and performance space. “This used to be a lot of things,” said Barb as she conducted a tour of the dance hall. “Most recently it was a feed and grain store. Now we hold periodic entertainments here and every month we host the Delta County veterans’ coffee.” The Pondy has teamed up with its neighbor business, Stacy’s on Main to provide free treats and coffee for military veterans who meet in the dance hall on the third Tuesday of every month from 10 a.m. to noon. “We love the veterans,” said Barb, “And they seem to enjoy gathering in a welcoming place.” Barb has done her best to make the dance hall unique. A skilled stained glass artist, she has inlaid the dance hall bar with sparkling shards which depict outdoor scenes and critters. There’s a huge trout rising to strike at a lure made from a beer bottle cap and a whimsical bear paddling a canoe. The tour of the dance hall ended and the cancer warriors, Barb and D.J. returned to their hosting duties as they greeted a pair of town visitors. While they exchanged pleasantries with the new arrivals it was easy to see how The Pondy got its philosophical motto which is displayed prominently on its Main Street sign. It reads: “You are a stranger here but once.” The Pondy at 220 West Main Street is open daily from 11 a.m. to 2 a.m. For information about the business or its work with cancer patients, call The Pondy at 970-856-3464.

Orchard City, Cedaredge trustees meet this week

Photo by Don Benjamin

Pictured above are (left to right) Chance Fischer (demolition derby, swine, and rodeo superintendent and board member, Austin); Teresa Burns (horses, junior rodeo, and royalty superintendent and board member, Hotchkiss); Amy Miller (small animal barn, sponsorships, and swine superintendent and board member, Hotchkiss); Kelly Korth (beef superintendent and board treasurer, Hotchkiss); Dorothy Mergelman (treasurer of the after-sale committee); Mary Haining (small animal barn superintendent and honorary board member); and Lance Kappel (beef superintendent and board president, Austin).

The Orchard City Board of Trustees will hold a regular meeting on Wednesday, July 11, at 7 p.m. in the Orchard City Town Hall at 9661 2100 Road, Austin. The agenda includes recognition of the student of the month and trustee committee reassignments. The trustees will also take action on a resolution concerning Delta County open fire restrictions and the matter of leasing water shares from one of the current trustees. There will be a first reading of an ordinance covering subdivision and land improve-

ment regulations, an appointment to the town planning commission, and several committee reports. The Cedaredge Board of Trustees will meet for a work session on Thursday, July 12, at 5 p.m. in the civic center Grand Mesa Room at 140 NW 2nd Street. The regular trustee meeting takes place on Thursday, July 19, at 5 p.m. in the same location as the work session. Time is allotted at each meeting for constituent comments and the public is encouraged to attend.

C2 Wednesday, July 11, 2018

SURFACE CREEK NEWS

Delta County Independent

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

Three months ago I gave information on our current drought and its impact on our local landscapes. This week I’ll broaden my discussion with more tips for conserving our precious water without losing our gardens. Cedaredge and Orchard City both have declared a Stage II drought. This means that outdoor watering will be limited to the period, 6 p.m. to 10 a.m. It also means that water users will be encouraged to reduce water usage through a rate structure that will penalize higher water use through a progressively increased rate tier system with each 10,000 gallon tier cost-

ing more per thousand gallons. Most of us have probably not been efficient water users. Do you forget your sprinklers and overwater, create runoff? Do you water in the middle of a hot day? Do you use sprinklers that spray much of the water through the air? Do you water your landscape without knowledge of each plant’s water needs? Do you cultivate a large lawn, even requiring a riding mower? If you answered yes to one or more of these questions, you have room to reduce your outdoor water usage. First and foremost you must prioritize your plants from most to least important. Trees, followed by shrubs and woody perennials have the highest rankings.

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Principal Daniel Renfrow displays some of the donated gifts purchased by the class of 1950. Photo submitted

You can reduce your outdoor water usage by making sure your sprinkling system is operating efﬁciently. Grass and annuals have the lower rankings. This is because higher priority plants take longer to grow to a usable size. Cutting back on water does not mean your plants will all die. It does mean that they won’t necessarily look their best. I’ve been watering most of my trees on a 30-day cycle before drought conditions prevailed. I could probably cut this back a little. I water the entire area under the tree’s canopy for one hour. Watering adjacent to the trunk is a waste of water. The feeder roots are further out. These roots are generally no deeper than 1824 inches. My trees do very well under this regimen. Spruces, aspens and cottonwoods would ideally like to be watered every 21 days. Pinyons and junipers need only to be watered about every three months. They can do okay on even less. The one hour duration holds for most trees. Most shrubs that are a good fit for the arid west can go 3-4 weeks between waterings. There are exceptions, such as apache plume, three-leaf sumac, yucca, sagebrush, rabbitbrush, spirea, and barberries. They can go 45 days between waterings. Most xeric woody perennials can go on a 30-day schedule. These recommendations are my normal watering routines. Now what about your precious lawns? Too many of us are married to our lawns, desiring grass that looks like a golf course green. And too many of you plant too much grass. America’s love affair of lawns has caused more trouble than any other land-

scape element. Okay, so you have all this grass and want to conserve water? First, consider cutting down your lawn area. Second, evaluate your sprinkler system, if you have one. Many irrigation systems have gotten out of adjustment and are not covering the lawn area uniformly. Check yours out and fix it! Many of you are watering too much. Kentucky blue grass can do very well if watered every three days for 2025 minutes. Our goal is to wet the soil down to 6-8 inch depth. Buffalo grass can go 45 days without watering and show no major ill effects. It won’t look as good as under a 30 day watering schedule but it will do just fine. You may even consider stressing your lawn by withholding all the water it wants to look its best. It may even need to go dormant if water is very short. It will come back. Mow your lawns at a higher level and don’t fertilize. Nitrogen applications will only encourage more growth requiring more water for support. Aerating your lawn will improve water penetration. Always a good thing. Last but not least remember that watering less frequently but longer is better than watering more frequently for a shorter time. Do mulch your gardens to conserve moisture. Above all, do not plant anything new during drought restrictions. Once the drought is over, consider planting more drought tolerant plants and minimizing those plants with high water demands. We will survive this latest drought and hopefully learn to be better water users. Jim Leser retired to Cedaredge in 2007 after a career with Texas A&M University Extension in entomology. He is a member of the Cedaredge Tree Board and a Colorado Master Gardener.

1950 CHS graduates donate funds to CES The Cedaredge High School Class of 1950 graduated 68 years ago from the building that is now Cedaredge Elementary School. There were about 30 students in the class and over the years they’ve met for class reunions, which included picnics and catered banquets. Recently, some classmates have been physically unable to travel back to Cedaredge for reunions, so the decision was made to discontinue

the reunions. With the funds remaining in their class account, they chose to make a donation to Cedaredge Elementary School for children’s needs. The staff at CES wants to give a huge thank you to the Class of 1950 for its generous and unselfish donation. “What a beautiful example of our community and school working together for our children!” said Cedaredge Elementary School principal Dan Renfrow.

What’s your plan? All Saints Lutheran Church will be hosting a presentation titled “What’s Your Plan?” by Phyllis Hoffman from Western Slope Long Term Care Solutions Saturday, July 14, 10 a.m. in the fellowship hall at All Saints Lutheran Church, 20101 Deer Creek Road, Austin, one mile north of the Cory store on Highway 65.

Topics covered will be long-term care planning, insurance, solutions, etc. Seven out of 10 people will have a period of extended care before they pass away, and that period can financially devastate them if they are not insured because Medicare does not cover long term care. The public is welcome to this presentation.

Historical board seeks new members For nearly two decades, the Town of Cedaredge historical preservation board has been identifying, researching, and recommending vintage town sites for designation as historic properties. Over the years, two dozen properties have been approved by the town trustees and, by the time the preservation board meets this September, each of those historic buildings will be displaying a distinctive commemorative plaque. The plaques are visible manifestations of the preservation board’s work. What is less apparent is the dedicated service performed behind the scenes by board members. At present, the board consists of five members: Ronn Brewer, Mike Mills, Sharon Pierce, LaDonna Gunn and Al Smith. Brewer and Mills plan to retire from the board

this autumn and they are hoping that other local citizens will step forward to take their places. Brewer has served on the board for 10 years and he invites citizens interested in joining the board to contact the Cedaredge Town Hall or any board member. Historical preservation representatives will also be on hand during the July 14 Celebrate Cedaredge event in town park. Anyone interested in town history, and especially those considering joining the board, are encouraged to stop by the board’s community fair booth from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. to learn more.

Check out the DCI Print Shop. Call Randy Crespin at 874-4421.

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SURFACE CREEK

Delta County Independent

Wednesday, July 11, 2018

The Journey continues BY DON BENJAMIN Staff Writer

Jean Loose, a certified massage therapist who has served the community for over a decade, is beginning to transition from full- to parttime to spend more time with family. Jean owns Cedaredge’s “Journey into Health and Healing,” a therapeutic massage center which has been operating at the same location since 2006. One significant move in her transitional plan has been her decision to add the names of two therapists to her business sign. The business’ distinctive building lies in the 600 block of South Grand Mesa Drive (Highway 65) in Cedaredge. The iconic sign has always included the business name, her name, and a graphic butterfly. Now she has added two additional names: those of licensed massage therapists Katherine Key and Megan Vertrees who have their own businesses. Both are helping Jean continue to serve clients as she steadily reduces her workload. “They want more business and I am wanting less,” she said, “The transition is going well. We make a great team and I love having the ladies here. We’re very compatible and get along well.” Jean wants to spend more time with her family. And it’s only fitting that Katherine and Megan are in a position to help with her transition because both women were encouraged by Jean to enter the

Photo by Don Benjamin

Longtime massage therapist Jean Loose is the owner of Cedaredge’s Journey into Health and Healing. Jean is beginning the transition from fullto part-time as two of her colleagues take on clients. Pictured left to right: licensed massage therapists Katherine Key and Megan Vertrees along with Jean Loose who is a certiﬁed massage therapist. massage therapy profession. After completing their training, Megan has been part of ‘Journey’ for two years and Katherine joined the business a year and a half ago. “They’ve been a great help already,” said Jean, “The revised sign just makes it official.” Jean has already notified her loyal clients and those who have been seeing her for years have reduced their sessions with her while keeping the frequency of their visits the same by seeing Katherine and Megan if they choose. Many clients have already become familiar with all three therapists. Going forward Journey will remain open from 8 a.m. to 6 p.m on Monday through Saturday with urgent hours arranged

Photo by Don Benjamin

Red, white and blue

Dressed for the holiday, Morgan Wright of Grand Junction enjoyed a refreshing seat beside the cooling stream that runs through Cedaredge’s Town Park. She and her family have a cabin on Grand Mesa where they spent the Independence Day holiday.

as needed. For her part, Jean is no longer working on Monday or Friday with Katherine and Megan taking clients on those days as well as working in rotation throughout the workweek. The two-room facility allows the trio of professionals to efficiently manage client schedules. “I think I speak for all three of us,” said Jean, “when I stress that everyone’s primary goal is to be here to serve our clients; to help people with their needs for relief and rehabilitation. For all of us the client comes first.” Journey builds its business through referrals and many of their clients are referred by chiropractors, physical therapists and primary care providers. “We are not only partners in serving clients who are referred to us but we are also often the first line of information in referring clients, in turn, to other health care services. Part of our strength lies in the amount of time we spend totally focused on the client. Our sessions generally last at least an hour — much longer than a typical doctor visit — and during that time we can learn about the client’s needs and share information with them to enhance their health and well-being.” Katherine Key began seeing Jean in 2007 when her mother won an hourlong massage at a charity auction. Katherine’s mother shared the prize and each received a half-hour with Jean. After additional visits, Jean learned of Katherine’s interests and encouraged her to go to massage school. After training as a certified nurse assistant, Katherine took Jean’s advice. She graduated from massage school in Pennsylvania and returned to practice in Colorado. Megan Vertrees had a similar experience. Her mother was a client of Jean’s and, after graduating from Vision Charter Academy in Cedaredge, she also took Jean’s

Garden club headed to Grand Mesa in July BY JOAN CHAMBERS Plant & Dig Garden Club

The Plant & Dig Garden Club, for its June meeting, gathered at the Cedaredge Park pavilion. It was a perfect day for an outdoor meeting. Our program was “All About Herbs.” Each member talked about how she grew them and used them in her daily life (cooking, soothing lotion concoctions, drying, etc.). Many brought exhibits for others to enjoy such as a citronella plant, dried herbs to share, fresh herbs in pretty arrangements, a herb planter, bottled herb scents for a variety of uses such as drawer fresheners and skin creams. Gloria Good brought a special treat — herb crackers that she baked using herbs from her garden. They disappeared quickly and everyone who sampled them tried to talk Gloria into

making them commercially so that we could enjoy them often. Joan Chambers also shared some tips about the medicinal use of herbs that she had researched on the internet. As usual, we all learned something and were also able to impart information that we had acquired with our fellow gardeners. It was another very fun and informative program. Club members continue to perform maintenance checks and chores at the Pioneer Town gardens. The established garden outside the west entrance as well as the new xeric bed along the fence line continue to draw favorable comments from visitors. We are delighted that it adds to their enjoyment of this very special Cedaredge attraction. Our July activity will

be our annual trip to Grand Mesa to view the myriad display of wildflowers on this magnificent mountain. We will have lunch and hike around, using our collection of books on this subject to try and identify each specimen that we encounter. This is always a trip that we look forward to, one that is filled with the peace and tranquility of our surroundings, and the prospect of finding a flower that we have never seen before. How lucky we are to have “Thunder Mountain” practically in our backyard! Gardening; learning; sharing; friendship; community service; scholarship. These are the goals of our club. We try each month to touch on all of these. We invite you to join us. Call 856-3897 or 856-7077 for more information about our meetings and our club.

advice and enrolled in the massage therapy program at the Delta-Montrose Vocational College (now Technical College of the Rockies). Katherine said, “I think this arrangement is really wonderful. I love to work here and I love the ladies I work with. It’s great to have Jean close to share things and compare notes on clients’ likes and dislikes.” Megan added, “This is a wonderful opportunity for me. Jean encourages me and shares her experience. Without her guidance and support I would never have gone into massage. Working with her has meant everything to me.” “Times have changed since I started out,” said Jean. She was born and raised in Gunnison then she went to nursing school in Dayton, Ohio. “I graduated in 1970 having learned massage as part of my nursing curriculum. I loved those classes and loved the skills.” After she and her husband relocated to Grand Junction in 1982, Jean took advantage of a Colorado program to become a certified massage therapist. In 1985, she went to Denver to present evidence of her nursing training and her massage experience. She passed a hands-on test and a written examination to gain her certification. “That’s why my credentials read ‘CMT,’ ” she explained, “I’m a certified massage therapist.” Later, in 2014, Colorado began licensing massage practitioners, so both Katherine and Megan have been granted credentials as “LMT’s” or licensed massage therapists. Whatever their credentials, their working relationship has been good for all concerned, including Journey’s clients.

Photo courtesy Mara Erwin

Living the life

Cedaredge-based artists Barbara Torke and Daphna Russell have been living the artist life since childhood. Their retrospective show is a ﬁtting inaugural exhibit for the Starr Family Gallery at the Grand Mesa Arts and Events Center in Cedaredge. Both are art educators who have mentored and inﬂuenced countless prospective artists throughout their careers. They both teach and write extensively. The show, “Living the Life,” is on exhibit until Aug. 9 at the center. A closing event is planned; watch for details on Facebook, at the website www.grandmesaartscenter.com, or call 970856-9195. The center is open seven days a week, from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Monday through Thursday, 11 a.m. to 6 p.m. on Friday and Saturday, and from 1-4 p.m. on Sunday.

Cedaredge Library will join the celebration July 14 The Cedaredge Library will be closed Saturday, July 14, for Celebrate Cedaredge. While the library will be closed, you can still visit the booth at Cedaredge Town Park for patriotic songs, games, and crafts. Learn about the Surface Creek Trail StoryWalk®, weekly storytimes, and other valuable library resources, from your friendly neighborhood librarians. Apply for a library card if you don’t already have one: if you do have one, bring a friend and we will help them get a card! Best of all, support your library and your community by celebrating Cedaredge

in collaboration with the Town of Cedaredge and the Cedaredge Area Chamber of Commerce Saturday, July 14, from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. in the park.

PEOPLE IN THE NEWS Gregory Edgington of Cedaredge was named to the Adams State University Vice President’s Honor Roll for the 2018 semester. Students must be classified as full-time and earned between a 3.5-3.99 GPA to qualify for the Vice President’s Honor Roll.

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Museum specialist to discuss 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 building at 1679 Pioneer Road. The presentation begins at 6:30 p.m. and will feature Jennifer Moss Logan, content specialist from the Denver Museum of Nature and Science. Learn about the early Israelites in Canaan, who wrote the Scrolls, what they contain, and

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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 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. Jennifer Moss Logan is an educator and coordinator for nature and culture gallery programs. She joined the museum

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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 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. Refreshments will follow the presentation, and there will be an opportunity to ask questions of Jennifer Moss Logan.

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Beki Atchley and Thomas Neil

Neil, Atchley combine voices for July 15 concert Thomas Neil and Beki Atchley will perform at Cedaredge Chapel of the Cross on Sunday, July 15, at 4 p.m. Come enjoy the beautiful harmonies from this dynamic duo! You will

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be pleased at the variety of music including some soulful gospel tunes, some original songs, and maybe even a little Johnny Cash. Admission is by donation.

Vacation Bible School is floating into Rivers Church at 762 Dodge Street, Delta. Sessions run from 9:15 a.m. to noon Monday-Thursday, July 16-19. Come and jump in! Have fun diving into God’s Word and His world of water. Kids going into kindergarten through fifth grade are invited to participate in chapel, games, snacks and crafts daily. For more information, contact Ruth Thompson at 970-361-2338.

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Jump in to VBS at Rivers Church

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Classifieds

July 11, 2018

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BUY • SELL • TRADE

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Mobile Homes 12X56; 2/3 BEDROOMS, 1 bath in quiet Cedaredge park. Unique home with real wood paneling on walls and ceilings. Desperate dining/bedroom with murphy bed. Built in hutches and dressing areas. Includes adjustable bed and washer/ dryer. $12,000. 856-7800; 303-917-2844. (1x28)

Rentals 2-BEDROOM, 1-BATH duplex in Cedaredge, 1car garage, nice landscaping, no smoking, no dogs, cats extra, good job and references required, 1-year lease, first $800, Last $800, and deposit $900 prior to move-in. (360) 929-5155. (2x27) FOR RENT, 1,600 SQ. FT. 3 bedroom house with 1 car garage in Delta. $850 per month, $850 deposit. Call 596-5319. (TFNx28)

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Help Wanted HELP WANTED: FARM laborers also fruit stand retail. 323-5116. (6x25) SEEKING PARAPROFESsionals/teachers to work with children who have cognitive delays in Delta County. Must be willing to learn, pass background check, and have reliable transportation. Go to https://www.otrbehavior. com/career-opportunities to learn more. (4x26) 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)

Card Of Thanks THE FAMILY OF RICK Smith wishes to thank all who stood, and are standing, with us in our time of need. Thanks to Delta Police Department and Delta County EMS for their timely response, valiant efforts and courtesy. Thanks to Kim Shea for her kind professionalism. Thanks to Gary at Taylor Mortuary for his helpfulness and gentle attitude. Thanks to all who honored Rick by calling, bringing food, sending cards, standing at the cemetery, donating to Rick's charities and just being all around supportive. Susan Smith, Chris Smith, Meghan & Ty Gallenbeck, Trevor, Gabbie & Jessie.

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Yard Sales YARD SALE - JULY 12, 13, 14 - 587 NE Indian Camp Ave., Cedaredge. 8 a.m. to 2 p.m. Antique furniture, cast iron skillets and collectibles. We have a Lincoln welder, Rotozip spiral saw, generator, 22 gallon air compressor, garden tools, etc. Selling nice Lazy Boy remote recliner, bed spreads, kitchen items, sewing machine, Christmas decorations, items for camping, bowling, skiing and fishing, games, Barbie dolls and much more. Park in front and walk to back. Handicapped parking in back. (1x28) USED EQUINE TACK & Garage Sale. Bridles, halters, bits, saddles pads, horse blankets, youth size hunt coats. Some office furniture and assorted garage sale items. 4H/Pony Club members 1/2 price with proof of horse project. Thursday, July 26th, 7:00 a.m. 'til noon! 8556 Coffey Rd. Austin, CO. 91x28)

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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)

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THE DELTA COUNTY Independent runs these items as a public service free of charge for non-profit organizations, if no fees are charged. However, each group is asked to please keep them current by calling 874-4421.

THE KINGS TABLE SOUP Kitchen needs egg cartons. DOMESTIC VIOLENCE If you have any to give Support Group for Adults please call 250-6637 and we and Children: Every will pick up. Wednesday in Delta from 5-7 p.m. there will be a free WANNA PLAY A ROUND? support group for adults Golf with a fun group of whose lives have been ladies. Two membership impacted by domestic vio- options available. Sign up lence and a separate group at www.cedaredgeladies for children at the same golf.com. Get to know us time. Please call 970-874- on Facebook at “cedar edgeladiesgolfclub” 4941 to sign up.

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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.

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ALCOHOLICS ANONYmous meets Thursdays at 7 p.m. Friends of Bill W. Club. 897 Palmer Street, Delta.

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HOSPITAL VOLUNTEERS Wanted! Delta County Memorial Hospital needs hospital volunteers. Days and hours are flexible. There are currently openings in the ER, Oncology, Gift Shop and some additional areas. If you are interested, please contact Volunteer Coordinator, Barbara Hall at 250-2105 for an application.

CO FATHER’S NETWORKdedicated to providing community and education to fathers of special needs kids. Meets twice monthly on the 1st Saturday at 11 a.m. and the 3rd Monday at 6:30 p.m. - 511 E. 10th St, Delta. See our website for more details: www.codads. WOMEN ONLY AA MEETings, Delta, Saturdays, 11:00 org a.m., at St. Luke's Episcopal AL-ANON A N D Church, 5th & Palmer (back A L A T E E N : door). Hope and help for families and friends of alcoholics FREE DIAPERS FOR UP meets in Delta: Al-Anon and to one year! Pregnant women Alateen, Tuesdays at 7:30 in Delta County can now get pm, St. Luke’s Episcopal help to quit smoking and get Church, 145 W. 5th St., con- something they can really tact Elizabeth 970-874-9832 use after their baby arrives — or Shirley 970-323-5067. free diapers. Healthy moms have healthy babies. Enroll CARING FOR CARE- in the Baby & Me Tobacco givers, C4C - support- Free program today. Contact ing hearts that care. Open the Delta County Health to ANY caregiver. Meets Department at 874-2165 or monthly in Delta, 2nd your local physician. Tuesday at 11 a.m. - 511 E. SUPPORT THE DELTA 10th St, Delta. Library. Give a gently used THE ABRAHAM CONNEC- book in the Downstairs tion homeless shelter, Book Store. located at 480 Silver St., Delta, offers emergency WELCOME RETURNING overnight shelter and food Veterans, Post 9221 VFW to men, women and fami- meets at 5:00 p.m. on lies in the Delta area mid- the 4th Thursday of each October- April. Call us at month in Cedaredge. To 970-773-8290 to make a find out how to participate referral, or for informa- in promoting patriotism tion on how to volunteer and assisting veterans, conor donate. www.Delta tact Wayne Hamrick, (970) 250-1180. AbrahamConnection.org.

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AARP DRIVER SAFETY Course. Save on insurance, keep up on newer traffic laws, learn defensive driving techniques. For details and schedule contact John Loring (970) 856-6924 or (970) 424-1778.

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

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

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.

HOTCHKISS-CRAWFORD Historical Museum. Winter hours, Saturdays 1-4 p.m. $3 admission or free to members. Come see our museum at 2nd & Hotchkiss Streets in Hotchkiss. 8723780.

HILLTOP COMMUNITY Resources offers free services and support to victims of Domestic Violence and Sexual Assault. There are also ongoing support groups. Please call our office at 970-773-2251 for more information or if you are in crisis please call our 24 hour crisis line at 1-844-990-5500.

CHECK OUT THE BOOK store at the Delta Library. You'll find a great selection of paperbacks at reasonable prices. IF YOU LOVE BOOKS, you will love the Downstairs Bookstore in the basement of the Delta Library. NARCOTICS ANONYmous meets at 9th and Palmer, Delta, Mondays and Fridays at 8 p.m. DELTA FOOD PANTRY needs meals for Delta families who are temporarily in need. Donations of nonperishable food may be brought to 628 Meeker.

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PAONIA AMERICAN Legion runs a year round non-perishable emergency food pantry. This is for the North Fork area. For information, call 527-6252. SAVE EYEGLASSES, OLD jewelry and silver or bits of gold and silver scraps. The Grand Odd Fellow Lodge is sending them to: New Eyes for the Needy, 549 Millburn Ave., Short Hills, NJ 07078 or send them to: Gale Conger, Secretary of IOOF Lodge #116, 5516 Hwy. 348, Delta, CO 81416. AL-ANON: HOPE AND help for families and friends of alcoholics meets in Paonia: Al-Anon, Wednesdays at 7 pm, United Methodist Church, 3rd & Onarga, contact Lisa 970-395-3608, Chris 970527-3366 or Marjorie 970433-1856

THE AMERICAN RED Cross needs you. Become one of the Red Cross volunteers who says, “We’ll Be There, Because Help Can’t Wait!” Call your local Red Cross Chapter at 970-2424851 or 1-800-HELP NOW for information on the difference you can make in someone’s life as a disaster CHAPTER, UNITS OF DAV volunteer. regular meetings on the second Monday of each DELTA HAS A BOOKmonth at 7 p.m. at the store in the basement of Veterans Building, 15th & the library featuring gently Howard, Delta. For further used books and magazines. information, call Paul Carter Come check it out! 874-5150.

AL-ANON: HOPE AND help for families and friends of alcoholics meets in Hotchkiss: Al-Anon, Mondays at 6:30 pm, Methodist Church 285 N. 2nd, contact Elsie 970-2108090 or Marjorie 970-4331856.

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Mary Moments: One woman’s quest to spread Christ’s love

Photo by Emy Lynn Roque Cisneros

Mary Meehan sits in her home with a collection of Resurrection Day cards. Her passion for her project is evident in her enthusiasm to share and send these messages to over 300 people each year.

BY EMY LYNN ROQUE CISNEROS Contributing Writer

ach year, over $6.5 billion is spent on greeting cards in the U.S. alone. According to the Greeting Card Association, the most popular choices include birthday, thank-you, and of course, holiday cards like Christmas and Valentine’s Day. Mary Meehan, Cedaredge resident, is adding to that pool of cards with a different type of message — Happy Resurrection Day. “The Resurrection of Jesus the Christ is a miracle of all time,” shared Meehan, age 94. “I felt led to something to honor and share the excitement.” For Meehan, sending

a card to celebrate Christ’s resurrection (Easter) is her yearly alternative to sending Christmas cards and ties together two of her loves: watercolor and writing. How the Cards Come Together The process begins in January, when Meehan gathers her watercolor art and notebook to begin assembling. Throughout the past year she will have spent hours reflecting specifically on Christ’s resurrection and the biblical passage Acts 1:1-10, the accounts of Jesus’ conversation and teachings to others after His resurrection. She then takes these thoughts and re-reads them

Photo by Emy Lynn Roque Cisneros

Some of Meehan’s work comes from spiritual inspiration (left) or nature (right).

Photo by Emy Lynn Roque Cisneros

Each card includes a heartfelt message and a greeting for a “Bright and Joyful Resurrection Day.”

to see what moves her on “what God has shown.” “My messages are encouragements around this account and what the Bible explains about the tremendous love for us by God shown in the sacrifice of Jesus,” shared Meehan. Next, she will look at her watercolors and decide which one to tape on the front for the original. Meehan’s watercolors are a result of testing new brushes, techniques or simply having fun. Her inspiration comes mostly from the mountains, though sometimes she’ll create a piece that, for example, resembles her visualization of a prayer. In fact, Meehan moved to Cedaredge 18 years ago because of her love for the mountains; much of her artwork reflects this love. When assembling the cards, if she feels drawn to a certain piece then this becomes the cover for the year’s card. The chosen message then gets typed, printed and taped to either the back or inside of the original. Additionally, Meehan will enlarge or slice the front image and print bookmarks with a scripture or short message on the back. The idea came from her son and she now includes them with her cards. To complete the process she makes copies at a print shop. The last batch she printed over 300, sending them to friends and family not just in the Surface Creek area but all over the country. Many recipients have told Meehan how much they love the cards and that they display or even frame them each year. “I get comments how beautiful they are, but what’s important is the message inside,” she said. For Meehan the process is a lesson in not just reflecting but also examining the specific aspects of the Bible and “finding reward for digging deeper.” She even started recently receiving Resurrection Day cards in return. “I send out the message of Christ’s love and I get gratefulness in return,” she said. A Lifetime of Art Ultimately, Meehan sees these cards as a way to give back what talent she sees God has given her. Meehan’s love

for art and writing began at an early age and she decided to continue this and pursue a five year program combining both the University of Pennsylvania and Philadelphia College of Art. “I was always teaching, whether it was out of my home or at a community center,” she said. After graduating, marrying and starting a family she continued teaching art out of her home. While also hosting clay and painting classes at a local art center someone commented she should teach at the local school. “I had to go back to get my teaching certificate, but it’s what I wanted,” she said. Meehan worked mostly with elementary school classes, and enjoys applying the beginner principles of art to any adult class. Specifically, she loves teaching first grade art to adults and gladly teaches friends or anyone wanting lessons. She said, “Seeing someone’s confidence and their magic moment during a lesson is what brings me joy.” Her late husband, Thomas, also taught art and focused his career on selling his oil paintings in exhibits and galleries. Today, Meehan’s passion for art is used in the Resurrection Day cards, but she wasn’t always passionate about faith. When Meehan was 52 she became a Christian because a friend invited her to a prayer meeting. The message was simple, powerful and ignited a change. Upon retiring in 1993 she turned her entire focus to ministry. Stonecroft, a non-profit women’s ministry, caught her attention and she also began working with Good News Club (GNC), a Child Evangelism Fellowship. In Philadelphia she worked with three GNC but now in Cedaredge there’s only one. She enjoys GNC because of the gospel focused messages and crafts with children. Stonecroft nurtures her passion about Bible study and connecting with other women of faith. Naturally, the next step was to share her reflections and artwork in a gospel-centered way. Thus her Resur-

rection Day cards began. She sees her ministry as continually growing and is excited for how her project will keep expanding. For Meehan, serving the Lord is her bottom line. Now, about 18 years later from the first card, she’s decided to take the next step and sell her cards, naming the endeavor “Mary Moments.” Expanding Her Ministry Recently, when making a trip to Stacy’s on Main in Cedaredge, Meehan decided to take a leap of faith and ask about displaying some of her cards for sale. “Stacy [Malmgren] has this beautiful little children’s corner and she didn’t have a children’s book display so I wanted to show her my sonin-law’s [Bob Barner] illustrated books,” she explained. “I decided, well, why don’t I also take my cards?” Malmgren was thrilled not only about the books, which Barner wrote and illustrated, but also Meehan’s cards. “I see it as a great opportunity,” she said. Soon Barner’s books and a collection of “Mary Moments” will be available for purchase at the shop. Meehan’s inquiry is an example of how Stacy’s is quickly becoming a go-to for locals to enjoy a quick cup of joe while browsing an assortment of high quality, local, handcrafted artwork and goods. For example, Barner’s books are educational, even including a message in the back for teaching the principles within the pages. Meehan’s cards are a way to personalize a greeting while sending a loved one a unique watercolor. Meehan’s display will include not only her Resurrection Day cards with their biblical message, but also other pieces, too. One of Meehan’s cards features a wooden stove watercolor with the greeting “Warmest Wishes.” Some cards will come with a bookmark of the artwork containing a note or scripture on the back. “I love being able to do something meaningful with my finished art,” she shared. “I think this is how the Lord is using my talents to present His message.”

Photo by Emy Lynn Roque Cisneros

Stacy Malmgren (left), owner of Stacy’s on Main, and Mary Meehan show the new additions to the shop’s growing collection: Meehan’s cards and her son-in-law’s books.

An example of a Resurrection Day card and bookmark Meehan has used in the past. Her cards originally started out as “A Mary Moment” but several friends encouraged her to see her collection as many moments.