Delta County Independent, Dec. 26, 2018 by Delta County Independent

NORTH FORK TIMES

SURFACE CREEK NEWS

NEW CHAPTER BEGINS Crawford librarian retires after 18 years, B1

SPORTS

CARING COMMUNITY Cookie walk, food boxes embody the spirit of the holidays, C1

DELTA COUNTY

OPENING ROUND

High schools face off in annual bank basketball tournament, C4-6 DECEMBER 26, 2018 VOL. 135, NO. 52

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INDEPENDENT

www.deltacountyindependent.com

Food for Thought goes countywide BY PAT SUNDERLAND Managing Editor

Food for Thought has gone countywide — a goal of founder Willyn Webb since the kidsfeeding-kids program was established 10 years ago at the Delta Opportunity School. “It’s such a good feeling to know that all kids who need supplemental food on the weekends will get it, regardless of where they live,” said Willyn Webb, who established the program to provide a service learning opportunity for her students. The program is now headquartered on the Delta campus of Vision Charter Academy, where Webb serves as director. “It is wonderful how our community has come together for the past 10 years, all of the churches, service clubs, school personnel, etc., to make Food for Thought a lasting effort that’s now expanded into the North Fork,” she said. Each Friday, Food for Thought distributes bags filled with food to get kids through the weekend. “Just as important,” Webb said, “it has provided a service learning experience for kids in kindergarten through 12th grade, where we can learn to create a culture in our community where everyone gives to one another.” The achievement of the 10year goal would not be possible without the unprecedented three Neighborhood Assist awards from State Farm totaling $75,000, and the broad support of online voters who voted Food For Thought one of their favorite nonprofit efforts. Those grants have brought sustainability to the program that just wasn’t possible through fundraisers alone, although Webb says fundrais-

ers are still important, because they’re a great way for Vision learners to connect with the community. With the addition of schools in Paonia, Hotchkiss and Crawford, between 250 and 300 bags of food are distributed each week. Each bag contains two breakfasts, two lunches and a snack — nonperishable food items that essentially replace what students would get at school those two days. Portions are more generous just before breaks like the Christmas holiday, but organizers still have to keep in mind the weight and size of the bags, to ensure they’ll fit inside a backpack even the smallest student can haul around. Much of the logistics — including the expansion to the North Fork — are being handled by Kathy Taylor, who is in her second year as counselor at Vision Charter Academy. It’s a role that allows her to build relationships with every Vision learner. “It’s an amazing way to get to know kids,” she said. “In order to be a good counselor you have to establish a relationship with kids, but I don’t have access to them every day in the classroom like the teachers. Now they know me, and I make sure they know how I can help them in other ways. If they’re struggling with something, they know me; they trust me.” Ten years after launching Food For Thought, Webb is still amazed at how many facets of the community continue to come together to make it work. The idea, she recalls, came from a radio announcement she heard about the Kids’ Aid backpack program in Grand Junction. About that time,

Gavan appointed to Colorado PUC BY TAMIE MECK Staff Writer

Gov. John Hickenlooper announced last week that John Gavan will serve as the newest commissioner of the Colorado Public Utilities

John Gavan

INDEX

Accent ........................... A4 Activities ....................... A7 Back Page ................... D8 Business ........................ A8 Church ........................... D6 Classifieds .................. D1-2 Editorial ......................... A2 Legals ......................... D3-5 North Fork Times ........B1-6 Obituaries ..................... A6 School Zone .................. A5 Service Directory ........ D7 Sports ..........................C4-6 Surface Creek News ...C1-3 TV Listings ..................B3-4

Commission. Gavan will serve a four-year term as an unaffiliated member of the board and replaces PUC commissioner Wendy Moser, whose term ends in January. The PUC regulates telecommunications, gas, electric and transportation utilities and establishes regulatory policy for exercising oversight and control of regulated utilities. The PUC “will likely play a significant role in efforts to shift the state toward renewable energy,” according to a Dec. 20 announcement of Gavan’s appointment by Joe Smyth with Clean Cooperative (www.cleancooperative. com). “I am very pleased to have been appointed as a commissioner to the Colorado Public Utilities Commission. With a long history of involvement in the telecommunications and GAVAN TO A3

she was looking to create an in-house service learning program at Delta Opportunity School, so she met with the man who started Kids’ Aid, then tweaked that program to fit the needs of Delta Opportunity School. They initially reached out to 12 kids from BELA Preschool, their neighbor at the time. “It’s been amazing to see

how quickly the program grew from there,” she said. “But during those first few years, we barely stayed ahead. Every donation of $10 or $20 was highly valued. We made the rounds of all the service organizations; it was such a great opportunity for the kids to be out in the public speaking, receiving praise and support for the program.”

And there was great buyin from the DOS students, because many of them had experienced hunger in their lives. “It really does give our students peace of mind, as well as nutrition over the weekend they may not have otherwise,” Lincoln Elementary School principal Joe Mock said of the program.

Photo submitted

The recipients of the Food for Thought program aren’t the only ones to beneﬁt. The program has provided an opportunity for older students to develop skills in public speaking, budgeting, shopping, inventory and nutrition.

Marijuana licensing, zoning regulations begin to take shape BY PAT SUNDERLAND Managing Editor

Two ordinances related to the establishment of medical marijuana facilities in the City of Delta passed on first reading at the Dec. 18 meeting of the Delta City Council. One ordinance deals with zoning; the other concerns licensing. Council, staff and the city attorney discussed both matters briefly at the end of a two-hour work session before moving into the regular meeting to take formal action. During that meeting, council member Gerald Roberts voted against both measures, saying the 20-minute discussion in the work session was not sufficient. “It’s premature to vote on this,” he said, a stance he made clear at the beginning of the meeting when he made a motion to remove both ordinances from the agenda. His motion died for lack of a second. It’s likely some changes will be made between first and second readings, but action was required if there’s to be any hope of adopting the regulations before the expiration of a three-month moratorium on the acceptance and processing of medical marijuana facility applications. The moratorium was enacted during a special city council meeting on Nov. 13, just days after voters in Delta

Fee-free days listed for 2019

approved the establishment of medical marijuana facilities. At that time, Roberts noted it would be difficult to develop and enact licensing and zoning provisions in just 90 days, but he voted in favor of the emergency ordinance, recognizing that a unanimous vote was needed to get the process started. In response to Roberts’ concerns at the council meeting, councilmember Chris Ryan noted, “I agree we still need to have discussion on this, but I think it’s highly appropriate that we move forward tonight. One of our commitments was to do this in a timely fashion. That doesn’t mean that we can’t do due diligence. As you well know, we have two readings coming on this and we will have other opportunities for work sessions, as well.” “If you do want to take more time, you can certainly do that but you should consider extending the moratorium if you do,” city attorney David McConaughy advised. Just in case, he recommended putting that step on the January meeting agenda. For the next hour, he went through specific provisions of the ordinances, seeking council input on several questions. Ordinance #17 deals with zoning and land use regulations for medical marijuana. In the A-1 district, cultivation

Black Canyon of the Gunnison National Park will waive its entrance fee on four days in 2019: • Saturday, April 20 — Start of National Park Week/National Junior Ranger Day • Sunday, Aug. 25 — National Park Service Anniversary • Saturday, Sept. 28 — National Public Lands Day • Monday, Nov. 11 — Veterans Day Black Canyon of the Gunnison National Park normally charges $20 per vehicle, $15 per motorcycle and $10 per pedestrian or bicycle. Entrance fees are good for seven days. The entrance fee waiver for the fee-free days does not cover user fees for camping. An annual pass to Black Canyon of the Gunnison National Park is available for $40. This pass admits the permit holder and all accompanying passengers in a single, private, noncommercial vehicle to enter the park. The annual $80 America the Beautiful National Parks and Federal Recreational Lands Pass allows unlimited entrance to the more than 2,000 federal recreation areas, including all national parks.

of medical marijuana is a use by right. Medical marijuana cultivation and medical marijuana sales are a conditional use in B-2. In the B-3 district, medical marijuana testing is a use by right; medical marijuana products manufacturing, research and development are conditional uses. The I (industrial) district allows medical marijuana testing facilities as a use by right, and as a conditional use, cultivation, products manufacturing, research and development and sales of medical marijuana. Performance standards are uniform throughout the land use code: Medical marijuana cultivation facilities must be licensed through the State of Colorado and the City of Delta and shall comply with the following additional standards: a. No noise, dirt or smoke shall be observable off of the premises. b. No owner of real property or person in charge thereof shall allow, permit or cause the odor of marijuana to emanate from that premises to any other property. c. All outdoor lighting fixtures shall be shielded so that the light source is not directly visible off the premises. d. No medical marijuana cultivation facility shall be located within 100 feet of MEDICAL MARIJUANA TO A3

Library hours change Beginning in January 2019, Cedaredge Library will be open on Wednesdays from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. The Delta Library will be open on Mondays from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. No other hours will be affected for either library. The Cedaredge Library is open Tuesday-Friday from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. and 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. on Saturday. It’s closed Sunday and Monday. The Delta Library is open 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. Monday-Thursday and 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. Saturday. It’s closed Friday and Sunday. Hours and locations of all five libraries in Delta County can be found at www.deltalibraries.org.

A2 Wednesday, December 26, 2018

OPINION

LETTERS Schaible’s claims are laughable Dear Editor: Usually, Mayor Ron Austin’s trusted colleague and confidant, Mr. Scott Schaible, can be mean spirited, but his recent letter was a barrel of laughs. I’ll do my best to respond, but my sides still ache from laughter. For starters, to call me a bully is hysterical. Anybody who has observed Mr. Schaible’s behavior in a public setting — where he routinely shouts at and insults anybody who dares to disagree with him — should get a good chuckle out of this pot calling the kettle black. It too is hilarious to claim that I am “trying to suppress the voice of the people.” This accusation becomes even more amusing considering that I was denied the opportunity to speak at a recent city council meeting. I requested to comment on a series of agenda items that were to be discussed later in the meeting, which the mayor originally agreed to. But then, when the opportunity for citizen feedback arrived, the mayor decided to not allow public comments, denying me and other participants the opportunity to speak. This occurred despite the fact that, an hour earlier, Mr. Schaible was allowed to read aloud his laughable letter about me (which, by the way, the live version was better) in front of the council, staff and citizen attendees. Who is suppressing who? Mr. Schaible’s confusion about why I declare my political affiliation is also entertaining. I am open and honest about my politics, because, unlike

Mr. Schaible, I am not pretending to be something else. I freely admit that I am — against my better judgement and the sage wisdom of my much smarter wife — a political person. I engage in debate on issues that involve government at all levels, and I have certain obligations to those who elected me to do so. Thus, I share my affiliation for the purposes of transparency. If Mr. Schaible would prefer, I would happily share my other affiliations, but usually those associations are not relevant to the topic at hand. Meanwhile, those who claim to be apolitical and nonpartisan — while also leveraging their personal relationships with elected officials to achieve their personal agenda — are either lying, delusional, or both about their own political behavior. I honestly can’t tell if Mr. Schaible is gaslighting

or lacks self-awareness; either way, I am guffawing. This is made even more comical by the fact that Mr. Schaible continues to insert himself into a debate where he has no skin in the game. He is not a City of Delta resident, nor does he own property or a business within city limits; but, for some reason, he is the mayor’s right-hand man. Why does the mayor continue to grant special access and privilege to non-constituents like Mr. Schaible, as opposed to his actual constituents? That is a question that only Mr. Austin can answer, but I suspect that it will be Mr. Schaible to answer it for him in the next edition of the DCI. Hopefully, next week’s letter is just as funny. Jay Stooksberry Chair Libertarian Party of Delta County (still)

Town of Paonia acted in bad faith Dear Editor: Paonia Mayor Stewart attempts to justify wasting tens of thousands of tax dollars to sue me in a failed attempt hide the truth about how Paonia operates (DCI 12/19/18). The court has rendered judgment on his legal theories. He is wrong. The court issued a 19-page rebuke of his arguments. In a shameful display, Mr. Stewart failed to score a single point. The court not only ruled his arguments have no legal merit, but that Paonia brought this entire case against me in bad faith.

The trial is over. Mr. Stewart led Paonia to a stunning defeat. My reason for seeking the documents in question is to make public how Paonia railroaded a low level employee with the guts to bring a credible complaint against Mr. Stewart’s favorite town manager, Jane Berry. As the court pointed out, there was absolutely no attempt to investigate the underlying allegations of retaliation and harassment. In other words, Paonia is running a crooked game. Bill Brunner Paonia

Delta County Independent

Troubling trends Dear Editor: The Dec. 5 DCI noted that outdoor recreation now drives the local economy. The figures were great, but how much better it would be if our economy was more varied. Economies with multiple “drivers” have a much better chance of surviving serious recessions and, unfortunately, recreation is often the first expense people cut when budgets are tight. We have let radicals destroy or diminish the

natural resource economy on which Colorado — and our nation — was built: mining, logging, ranching, and farming. Our nation is losing our resource industries as well as our manufacturing capabilities. We are becoming more dependent upon other countries for our food, clothing, and technological devices. Many of our prescription drugs are now manufactured in China (a troubling thought, especially after

contaminated pet food from China killed a few thousand animals here in 2007-08.) We no longer have penicillin, aspirin, or Vitamin C manufacturing plants in the U.S.; China supplies these more cheaply. While trade with other countries is great, we are putting ourselves in a situation where we can’t readily supply our own needs, and to me, that’s dangerous. Bruce Many Eckert

Growing opportunity: Senator Bennet helps legalize hemp to boost economy BY MICHAEL BENNET U.S. Senator

In 2013, I received a call from Majority Leader Mitch McConnell asking me, as a member of the Senate Agriculture Committee, to support a pilot program to allow farmers to grow hemp. Knowing Colorado farmers’ interest in the crop, I jumped at the chance and pushed to include the program in the 2014 Farm Bill. Over the next four years, Colorado’s hemp industry boomed. From 2014 to 2018, our hemp cultivation increased six-fold. As the industry grew, I visited hemp businesses and farms across our state, including stops at State Senator Don Coram’s operation in Montrose and at Colorado Cultivars in Eaton. Each visit underscored the crop’s versatility and potential. Coloradans were turning hemp into clothing, food, and animal feed. They were making plastics and CBD oils for pain and inflammation. In short, they were turning this new crop, which is well suited for our arid

climate, into a welcome source of income. But as Colorado’s hemp businesses have continued to grow, they have run into obstacles from Washington. Our farmers are worried about maintaining access to their water. They are unable to buy crop insurance or transport seeds. Some have encountered red tape opening a bank account or applying for federal grants. In response, Coloradans have taken action. When the state passed a law to protect water access for hemp growers, our office followed their lead and introduced similar legislation in Congress. We pressed the Obama administration to make federal resources available to hemp growers. More recently, we pushed the Trump administration to help them access banking services. Last spring, we introduced a bill to legalize hemp as an agricultural commodity. We had a breakthrough this year when the Senate Agriculture Committee adopted our language

to legalize hemp in the 2018 Farm Bill. Now that we’ve passed the Farm Bill and the President has signed it into law, hemp cultivation is fully legal for the first time in 50 years. That means less uncertainty and more opportunity for our hemp farmers, small businesses, and manufacturers. In the years since the McConnell’s call, I’ve learned more about hemp than I ever expected to as a United States senator. More than anything, it’s given me the opportunity to see more of our state’s boundless creativity, determination, and entrepreneurship. In the face of barriers and uncertainty, Coloradans have led the country in demonstrating hemp’s potential. If we continue to curb Washington’s influence, there’s no limit to what our state can achieve. Michael Bennet, Colorado’s senior U.S. Senator, serves as ranking member of the Agriculture Subcommittee on Conservation, Forestry, and Natural Resources.

Law enforcement blotter

From the Delta Police tinez, 28, of Montrose was $100. A visiting woman called Department (edited for arrested and jailed on two warrants with a total $2,500 to request assistance for her length): in bonds. elderly grandfather. She said Dec. 20: he won’t eat, he may be suiDec. 16: An officer responded to cidal and she had to get back Officers responded to the residence at 450 W. 6th Street 790 1525 Road on a report of home. Dec. 19: for a disturbance. Donni Lee criminal mischief. A Delta area woman An officer responded to Morton, 37, of Cedaredge was taken into custody and trans- 1075 E. 5th Street on a report reported her 16-year-old daughter was being harassed ported to the Delta-Montrose of auto theft. An officer responded to via text message. County line where she was A business owner reporttransferred to a Montrose Splish Splash Car Wash, 104 ed the theft of a batteryPolice Officer on a warrant Main Street, for a burglary. An officer responded to a powered chain saw from an out of Montrose. An officer responded to residence in the 700 block of employee’s vehicle. The Stihl the Highway 92 corridor in Dodge Street to assist with a MSA200 chain saw is valued at $306; the AP300 battery is an effort to assist another medical emergency. Officers responded to a valued at $100. agency with a possible hit A postal carrier reported and run incident. A possibly residence in the 1400 block involved vehicle and driver of Howard Street for a dis- that six mailboxes on Steaturbance. rman and Saddle Mountin were contacted. Officers responded to the Lane near Crawford had been An officer responded to a business in the 1400 block of 300 block of E. 14th Street to broken into. Valley View Drive on a report assist a motorist with a medi- Dec. 20: cal emergency. At about 5:30 a.m., a busiof criminal mischief. Officers responded to the ness in Eckert reported a man Officers responded to a residence on H Road for a 200 block of Meeker Street for was sleeping in his car in a fire in the alley. Delta Fire the parking lot. He had previwelfare check. responded and put the fire ously been told that was not Dec. 17: Arrin Nicole Dennis, 38, of out. No injuries were report- allowed. Deputies contacted Delta was arrested and jailed ed or observed and no dam- the individual to remind him age to residences or other he was allowed in the parkon a no bond warrant. ing lot only during business Amanda Paige Hender- structures was located. An officer responded to hours. son, 31, of Delta was issued A burglary was reported at a ticket for alleged improper a residence in the 600 block signal, drove without a valid of Meeker Street for a citizen a home on Highway 92 near Hotchkiss. Entry was through license and failure to present assist. Reminder: The charge is the back door. The owner is evidence of insurance. The uninsured vehicle was towed merely an accusation and the still determining if anything defendant is presumed inno- is missing. from the scene. cent until proven guilty. An Orchard City resident Dec. 18: received a call from a debt An officer responded to From the Delta County collector trying to obtain paythe alley in the 300 block of ment for a past due Verizon Palmer Street on a report of Sheriff’s Office (partial list): bill in excess of $1,000. The abandoned or possibly stolen Dec. 17: man told deputies he’d never property located in a shed. Deputies responded to an used Verizon’s services. Officers responded to a A Cedaredge area resident residence in the 300 block unattended death at a rural hit a cow with his car at about of Eaton Avenue where they Delta address. Deputies responded to a 7 p.m. The elderly driver contacted a runaway juvenile from another state. The 15- complaint about an aggres- and his passenger were not year-old male was taken into sive dog on Green Valley injured. Deputies assisted the Colcustody and charged with Road near Cedaredge. A request for prosecution orado State Patrol with the aggravated motor vehicle theft after a stolen vehicle was filed for a 15-year-old arrest of an individual wanted male juvenile who punched in connection with vandalwas recovered at the scene. An officer responded to a hole in the wall at Gateway ism in Mesa County. He also allegedly threatened an offiWalmart, for a theft report. Youth Services. cer with a handgun. The man The property in question was Dec. 18: Deputies investigated a was stopped on Highway 50 located and returned to the possible restraining order at Dominguez Canyon Road. owner. Officers responded to a violation in the Austin area. Due to early deadlines A Delta area resident residence in the 600 block for the Christmas holiday, of Palmer Street for a civil reported the theft of a game Dec. 20 was the last date camera she had installed to standby. Officers responded to a watch for suspicious activity. for incidents to be reported residence on E. 6th Street to The camera was valued at assist with a medical problem. Dec. 19: Ronald Wesley Williamson, 56, homeless in Delta, was issued a ticket for alleged open burning restrictions. Officers responded to a residence in the 500 block of Grand Avenue for a welfare DELTA COUNTY INDEPENDENT (UPS 152-700) is published weekly on check. Wednesdays at 401 Meeker St., Delta, CO 81416. Second class postage An officer responded to paid at DELTA, CO. POSTMASTER: Send address changes to: DELTA Raymond Jones Financial, COUNTY INDEPENDENT, PO BOX 809, DELTA, CO 81416 338 Main Street, on a report of fraud. 401 Meeker St. • (970) 874-4421 An officer responded to editor@deltacountyindependent.com El-D-Rado Motel in reference to a possible trespass. ads@deltacountyindependent.com Chante Stephanie Mar-

DELTA COUNTY

INDEPENDENT

LOCAL NEWS

Delta County Independent

Wednesday, December 26, 2018

Medical marijuana

Photo by Pat Sunderland

Around the world

The hallways of Lincoln Elementary School were creatively decorated Dec. 20 for the school’s annual Winterfest, which this year was themed “Christmas Around the World.” Kaylynn Sanford and Faith Howard stand in front of the Eiffel Tower at the entrance to the school. Students and their families enjoyed a chili dinner, crafts, and one last opportunity to visit with Santa.

TAILS receives breeding animals TAILS recently received five dogs that were among 24 used in a backyard breeding operation. Two pugs and three chihuahuas were transfered from another shelter in Cortez; the other dogs went to various rescue facilities in Colorado. The five dogs are now being treated for medical issues, including dental treatments. If you’re interested in fostering or helping with medical costs, please contact the shelter at 874-1078.

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FROM PAGE A1 any dwelling unit, except dwelling units located within the A-1 District. e. Must be fully enclosed by a building or structure including a roof. Ordinance #18, concerning medical marijuana licensing, limits the number of each type of license to two. Council agreed to a lottery that involves the random selection of the number of complete applications equal to the number of available licenses. An application fee of $5,000 is non-refundable. License renewal or transfer of ownership was set at $3,500. An annual license fee of $5,000 is also required. A list of 12 application requirements includes a provision that the applicant provide a map showing the proximity of the licensed premises to any public or private school, licensed day care facility, church, park and law

ENGAGE issues business challenge Are you ready to launch your business, or move your great idea into action? Is your existing business ready for the next level? The ENGAGE business challenge may be just what you’ve been waiting for, to take that leap. The ENGAGE business challenge is a threemonth business training and mentorship program, that seeks to enhance main streets and downtown business districts, and other commercial areas in the targeted region, which will ultimately result in a “pitch” night in Delta. The challenge is available to entrepreneurs and businesses in Olathe, Delta, Orchard City, Cedaredge, Hotchkiss, Paonia, Somerset and Crawford.

enforcement facility (jail, police department and work release). A 1,000-foot setback is required from those establishments. Council debated whether the setbacks should apply to other medical marijuana facilities, but decided the market would determine whether two establishments could succeed in close proximity to one another. A map indicating the 1,000-foot setbacks has been posted on the city website, www.cityofdelta. org. The full text of the proposed ordinances is published in this week’s

Retirement reception planned After 27 years of service to Delta County, 16 of them as sheriff, Fred McKee is retiring from office. Please come wish him well Friday, Jan. 4, from 4 to 7 p.m. at Bill Heddles Recreation Center. Refreshments will be served.

DCI. The second reading of both ordinances is scheduled for the regular council meeting Tuesday, Jan. 8. Due to the New Year’s

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holiday, council will meet Jan. 8 and Jan. 22, rather than the first and third Tuesdays as normally scheduled. Council meetings begin at 7 p.m.

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Participants will be introduced to opportunities and incentives in communities throughout the region to either find, or expand into, the perfect location for your business. Participants will also develop a deeper understanding of how to create a business plan, be partnered with a mentor, and enjoy networking opportunities with other regional entrepreneurs. Participants will also compete for cash prizes and other consulting services. ENGAGE Business Challenge applications are due by Feb. 12. For more information contact Shawn Gardner at 970-712-0950 or shawn. gardner@tcr.edu or visit www.engagedeltacounty. org.

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Gavan ��

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FROM PAGE A1 energy sectors, I am looking forward to working on regulatory and policy issues in these industries,” Gavan said. Gavan, who lives in Paonia, was twice elected to a four-year term on the Delta-Montrose Electric Association board of directors and was one year into his second term. He officially resigned at the Dec. 18 board meeting. “I am really saddened to be leaving the DMEA board. It is the most capable, decisive and hard-working board that I have ever served on and I will look back on my time at DMEA as among the most cherished of my life.” Gavan received a degree in engineering from the State University of New York Maritime College. He also has an MBA in finance from NYU’s Stern School of Business. His career in technology began in 1978 while serving in the U.S. Navy, at one point working aboard a guided missile destroyer as an engineering and communications officer. He also worked in cyber security as IT manager at NASA Headquarters in Washington, D.C., and, post-Navy, spent 18 years at MCI Telecommunications Corp. Prior to retiring to the North Fork Valley, he was the director of the project management office at GXS Inc.

(now Open Text). “With a long history of involvement in the telecommunications and energy sectors, I am looking forward to working on regulatory and policy issues in these industries,” Gavan told Clean Cooperative. “It is a very exciting time in the utility and transportation space as new technologies and market forces drive a new level of change and innovation in these once staid industries.” Gavan also served until last week as president of the nonprofit Delta County Economic Development. He is a former board member of Tri-State Generation and Transmission Association, and Paonia-based Solar Energy International. His appointment runs through Jan. 9, 2023.

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A4 Wednesday, December 26, 2018

ACCENT

Delta County Independent

Women gather for � � ��

‘A Stellar New Year’

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Delta County Women’s Connection is excited to host its Jan. 10 event for the women of Delta and surrounding areas from 5:30 to 7 p.m. “A Stellar New Year” will feature a presentation from NASA ambassador Brenda Har-

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

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vey; guest speaker Jill Pursell presents “Love Lifted Me.” Focusing on providing a quick retreat from the hustle and bustle of the everyday, the DCWC event is a great place to unwind, laugh, learn, share, and re-charge in the company of other women. Because this is a catered event, reservations are appreciated. Reservations for children will be needed as well, and moms are asked to bring a sack dinner for each child. A $12 cover charge includes a catered dinner. Please RSVP by Jan. 7 by phone to Cindy at 970-921-5412, email to dcwcreservations@gmail. com, text to 919-795-8968, or visit the events link on DCWC’s Facebook page and reserve on the event. The event will be held at the Delta Christian Church, 795 1600 Road. Founded in 2008, DCWC provides a safe, caring environment where Delta County women of all ages and backgrounds can come together for a good meal and some girl time. DCWC meets every other month for a catered dinner, live entertainment, friendly conversation, a fun activity, door prizes, and a wonderful inspirational speaker. Free child care is always provided. Delta County Women’s Connection is an outreach of Stonecroft. Find and like DCWC’s Facebook page to keep current on what’s happening: http://fb.com/ DeltaWomenConnect.

NOON YEAR’S EVE EXTRAVAGANZA FOR YOUTH

FREE

11:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m.

Food • Games • Fun

Music by The Rhythm Knights DJ Service YOUTH OF ALL AGES WELCOME!

Delta Elks Lodge #1235 563 Main Street • 874-3624

Santa and Mrs. Claus dropped by the Delta County Museum a few days before Christmas, where they met some of the Delta County Historical Society trustees, including Keith Lucy, president, Jim Edwards, vice president, Tom Gore, Cathy Hall, Jim Wetzel, Jo-an Barnett and museum director Laurie Elendu.

Christian Perspectives class to be offered in Delta A 16-week course called “Perspectives on the World Christian Movement” is being offered starting Jan. 8 at Calvary Baptist Church in Delta. The classes will be held from 6 to 9 p.m. every Tuesday night from Jan. 8 to April 30. The first two lessons are free and open to the public and can be attended without registering for the entire course. Snacks and a light dinner will be served each week. This is the first time this class has been offered in Delta County. This course is designed to help Christians understand God’s Global pur-

BIRTHS

Monday, December 31

FREE

Santa visits the museum

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FREE

Photo by Pat Sunderland

Nolan and Shelly Bryant of Olathe are the parents of a daughter, Annabelle Lynn Bryant, born Dec. 13, 2018, at Delta County Memorial Hospital. She weighed 8 pounds, 9 ounces and was 19 inches in length. Dai Le and Yen Nguyen of Delta are the parents of a daughter, Bailey Ann Le, born Dec. 13, 2018, at Delta County Memorial Hospital. She weighed 5 pounds, 15 ounces and was 18 inches in length.

pose. The first five lessons explore God’s desire revealed in Scripture that all nations and every people group would know Him. The next four lessons explore the history of missionary movements from early Christianity to recent missionary movements. The final portion of the course explores how God is moving in the world today, and how Christians are reaching the world through culturally sensitive, spirit inspired strategies. This part of the course is very exciting as you learn how God is moving in regions of the world that have remained unreached for centuries. Each lesson features a different instructor. Most of these instructors have been involved in world missions for many years. The first instructor is Sean Cooper. He has spent over 10 years with “The Traveling Team” teaching at churches, colleges and universities. Cooper will be speaking on God’s three-fold purpose: For Kingdom victory over evil, for redemption and blessing to the nations, and for global glory in worship of God. He will be speaking Tuesday night, Jan. 8. This lesson is free and open to the public. The second lesson on Jan. 15 is also free and open to the public. The instructor for the second lesson is Eric Guthrie from Oklahoma City. He is an experienced missionary who has ministered to 35 countries and

currently the executive director of “Beautiful Feet,” an organization that trains missionaries specifically to go reach unreached people groups. Eric will speak on “The Story of Glory,” how God has been steadily unfolding a plan throughout all nations and generations to bring about His greater glory, drawing to himself the worship of all peoples. After these two lessons, you might be inspired to take the course. To continue, you need to register for the course before the third lesson. The cost for the entire course is $250 which covers the travel costs for these amazing instructors. Included in the price are a textbook and workbook. There are discounts for pastors, for more than one family member, and if you want to purchase the books elsewhere. There is also a discount for registering before Jan. 1. Scholarships are available for those who demonstrate interest by attending the first two classes, based on need. More information can be found at the website Perspectives.org where you can find the Delta class after selecting Colorado on the search map. You can register for the course on the site, or simply come to Calvary Baptist for the first or second lesson. You can also call the coordinator of the class, Julie Mixter, at 216-0781 for information.

Photo by Pat Sunderland

The gift of music

A guitar personalized by Debbie Straus of Crawford was presented as a gift from the Music Has Value Foundation and Seth Hellman to Judy Hagan, who had shared the theft of her old guitar with the Hellman family. The Music Has Value Foundation, based in Nashville, Tenn., was started by Scott and Sandi (Spika) Borchetta. The foundation, which is based in Nashville, Tenn., provides funding to nonproﬁt organizations that support those who make music, aspire to make music, and access and appreciate music. Sandi is the sister of Darci Hellman and Seth’s aunt. After receiving her gift at Hellman Motors, Judy serenaded the business’s employees and customers.

SCHOOL

Delta County Independent

Wednesday, December 26, 2018

Student leaders develop a vision for the future tify an injustice in their identified curriculum she trict,” she said. “We need school and come up with views as non-inclusive. to represent and learn School board members, a solution. Hoffbauer “We are a diverse dis- about our diversity.” Her solution was to superintendents, educaidentify state standards, tion leaders and students then create a database concluded the 78th annuof inclusive resources to al Colorado Association serve as a cross-reference of School Boards (CASB) for teachers and students convention in Colorado looking for a broader perSprings on Sunday, Dec. spective. 9. Schwieterman wanted The contingent from to find a way to make Delta County included students feel more condistrict leadership, school nected to what they’re board members and three learning, and by doing students — Ana Jurca, so increase their interest Delta High School; Katya Photo submitted in the subject. She enviSchwieterman, Paonia High School; and Azalee Three high school students traveled to the Colo- sions some type of forum Hoffbauer, Cedaredge rado Association of School Boards convention that would foster commuwith school district administrators and school nication among students, High School. They recapped their board members. Pictured are Azalee Hoffbauer teachers, administrators experience during a meet- from Cedaredge, Ana Jurca from Delta and Katya and those who develop curriculum to answer the ing of the newly-formed Schwieterman from Paonia. Delta County Student Advisory Committee. “Overall it was a really good experience,” the three girls shared. Because she had gone to the CASB convention last year, Ana Jurca, a founding member of the youth advisory committee, served as a student facilitator. Schwieterman and Hoffbauer attended breakout sessions with high school students from across the state, which provided a unique Photo by Pat Sunderland opportunity for networking. Many conversations revolved around the topYou better watch out, you better not cry, you better not pout, I’m telling ics of mental health and you why, cause Santa Claus is coming to town! Hand motions accomsubstance abuse. panied the lyrics to the song as the kindergarten students from Garnet Of particular value to Mesa Elementary presented their winter concert at Bank of the West on the two girls was a Peace Thursday, Dec. 19. First exercise in which they were asked to iden-

BY PAT SUNDERLAND Managing Editor

question, “When will I ever use this material?” Schwieterman said young people of her generation want to know the “why” behind the lesson. The student leaders who participated in the Peace First program shared their insights and problem-solving skills during a general session on Saturday. Dr. John Medina followed the students on

stage and fascinated the audience with the latest research on the teenage brain and ways to influence executive functioning of the brain. The student leaders from Delta County found this information to be highly informative, and all came home with ideas to increase learning potential for every student through movement and external stimuli.

Photos submitted

Students of the Month

Garnet Mesa Elementary School recently recognized Students of the Month for November. Pictured above are fourth graders Paiyten Henderson, Damitry Tatman, Keagan Crespin and Keeton Collins. Below are ﬁfth grade students Luis Huerta, Bergen McCormick, Troy Siennicki and Ainhoa Ochoa.

Santa Claus is coming to town

Winter dance begins Jan. 15

Year End CLEARANCE SALE

The winter dance session begins at Bill Heddles Recreation Center the week of Jan. 15. Instructor Linda Dysart offers classes in beginning ballet, intermediate ballet, advanced jazz/ballet, beginning jazz, intermediate jazz and preschool dance. A complete schedule can be obtained from Bill Heddles Recreation Center, 874-0923. Dysart can be reached at 250-7834. The cost is $65 for the 10-week session and recital.

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Basketball skills challenge is coming to BHRC The Denver Nuggets Basketball Skills Challenge comes to Bill Heddles Recreation Center Monday, Jan. 7. Registration begins at 9:30 a.m.; competition is scheduled at 10 a.m. This free basketball skills competition is open to boys and girls ages 613. Participants will be divided into gender and age groups (age as of April 30, 2019). A birth certificate is required at time of registration to advance to the sectional competition. The Denver Nuggets Basketball Skills Challenge is a basketball competition that allows youngsters to showcase their talents in dribbling, passing and shooting. The youth program is produced by the Denver Nuggets and Colorado Parks & Recreation Association with support from the City of Delta. Top scorers from each age group advance to a sectional competition. Top sectional scorers from each age group advance to the state championship to be held in conjunction with a Denver Nuggets game at the Pepsi Center in March. For more information, call Whitnee Lear at 970-874-0923 or email whitnee@cityofdelta.net.

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A6 Wednesday, December 26, 2018

Roger Neely

Longtime Delta resident Roger Neely died Dec. 17, 2018, at his home. He was 73. A viewing was held at Taylor Funeral Service Chapel on Dec. 20. Funeral services were held Dec. 21 at Taylor Funeral Service Chapel, followed by interment at Pea Green Cemetery. Roger Kent Neely was born May 1, 1945, to Claudie and Milda (Lewis) Neely in Cahone. He spent his childhood and attended school in Cahone. He graduated from Dolores County High School in Dove Creek in 1963. In December 1963, he married Karen Sue Wooten in Cushing, Okla. They had three children. After her death, he married Kathy Longwell on May 21, 2012, in Montrose. Mr. Neely was a member of the General Assembly Church of The First Born in Montrose. He was a jack-of-all trades, but driving truck was one of his favorites. He enjoyed auctions, traveling, especially going on cruises, flying and collecting. He had 20 Geo Metro cars. He is survived by his wife, Kathy Neely; two sons, Roger (Myra) and Troy Neely; daughter, Brenda Neely; stepdaughters, Cheryl (Neal) Rusy and Cheri (Dusty) Roberts; brother, Larry Neely; sisters, Nila (Bill) Tortoriello, Cheryl (Edd) Kline and Terri (Tony) Hermann; 12 grandchildren and seven greatgrandchildren. He was preceded in death by his first wife. Taylor Funeral Service and Crematory is handling the arrangements. Visit the internet obituary and sign the online guest registry at www. taylorfuneralservice.com.

Betty Olson

Betty Olson died Dec. 14, 2018, at Valley Manor Care Center in Montrose. She was 93. She was a longtime resident of Chico, Calif. Services will be held in that city at a later date. Betty Hazel Fox was born Nov. 18, 1925, to August and Agnes Fox in Triumph, N.D. She

OBITUARIES

spent her childhood and attended school in Gridley, Calif. She graduated from Gridley High School in 1943. On Jan. 25, 1944, she married Clifford Olson in Gridley, Calif. They were married 40 years when Clifford died in 1984. Mrs. Olson belonged to the Grange in California. She enjoyed fishing, baseball, bowling and especially spending time with her family. She is survived by her son, Clifford “Kip” (Joyce) Olson; eight grandchildren; 12 great-grandchildren; and five greatgreat-grandchildren. She was preceded in death by her husband, Clifford Olson Sr.; and daughters, Carol Madison and Debbie and Chris Olson. Taylor Funeral Service and Crematory is handling the arrangements. Visit the internet obituary and sign the online guest registry at www. taylorfuneralservice.com.

Harvey Coonts

Harvey Lee Coonts died Dec. 10, 2018. He was 84. He was born March 8, 1934, in Weslaco, Texas, and spent his childhood helping on the family farm there. After helping a heifer give birth he decided farming wasn’t for him and instead pursued a degree in petroleum engineering. He also served in the U.S. Army. After graduating from Texas A&M with his engineering degree in 1958, he worked for oil companies in Texas, as the state engineer for Utah, for Union Pacific Railroad and Southern California Edison. In 1974 he earned his professional engineering license and opened Coonts Engineering. He moved to Colorado in 1979 to be more centrally located in the U.S. for his growing business. He retired in 2001 and moved to Eckert. He enjoyed chatting with friends on ham radio, mowing his lawn and riding his scooter. He is survived by his children, Elaine, Janice, Amanda and Ernest; grandchildren, Tyler, Brandon, Hannah, Lau-

ren and Emily; and greatgrandchildren, Rosie and Samuel. He was preceded in death by his wife of 61 years, Rosa Lee; and daughter, Diana Joy. Funeral services will be held Friday, Jan. 4, at Taylor Funeral Service Chapel at 10 a.m. Internment is at Cedaredge Cemetery.

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her husband, Dale of Austin; son, Kenneth (Beverly) Kerr of Castle Rock; daughters, Lucy “Michele” Kerr Martin of Murphysboro, Ill., and Norma Barcomb of Clifton; brothers, Robert McCoy of Cedaredge and Joseph McCoy of Mt. Perry, Ohio; 12 grandchildren; and 23 great-grandchildren. She was preceded in death by two daughters, Rebecca Springer and Mary Cole. Taylor Funeral Service and Crematory is handling the arrangements. Visit the internet obituary and sign the online guest registry at www. taylorfuneralservice.com.

W. Paul LeMay

Norman Shetley

Delta resident Norman E. Shetley died Dec. 17, 2018, at Horizons Care Center in Eckert. He was 94. A memorial service will be held at 10 a.m. Thursday, Dec. 27, at the Delta United Methodist Church. Mr. Shetley was born Nov. 11, 1924. He spent his early years in Missouri until he moved with his family to Olathe, where he graduated from high school and then attended Western State College. He joined the U.S. Army and served in World War II, receiving a Bronze Star for his service. On Aug. 7, 1946, he married Roberta Jean in Los Angeles, Calif. They shared 63 years of marriage before her death in 2010. Mr. Shetley was a teacher before working for the State of Colorado unemployment office for 28 years. He enjoyed woodworking, cooking, traveling to the mountains, fishing, hunting and storytelling. He hosted a program where he shared his experiences as a World War II veteran with the students of Delta County. He is survived by his sons, Randy (Vickey) Shetley and Mark Shetley; and four nieces. He was preceded in death by his wife Roberta; son, Bruce; sister, Ruth Anderson; granddaughter, Angie; and a nephew. Memorial contributions may be made in his name 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.

Shirley Evans

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Delta County Independent

Shirley Jean Evans died Dec. 19, 2018, at her home in Austin. She was 76. A funeral service will be held on Friday, Dec. 28, at 2 p.m. at Taylor Funeral Service Chapel in Delta with Pastor James Gall officiating. Burial will take place in the Mesa View Cemetery. Shirley Jean McCoy was born June 30, 1942, to Basil and Lucy (Melton) McCoy in Springfield, Mo. She received her education in Missouri and married Dale Evans in 1986 in Glenwood Springs. Mrs. Evans had been a resident of Austin for one year, having moved from Cedaredge. She was a member of the Pentecostal faith. She enjoyed watching television, crocheting, music from the ‘50s and ‘60s, especially Elvis Presley, cooking and spending time with her husband and children. She is survived by

Lifetime Paonia resident Paul LeMay died Dec. 18, 2018, at Paonia Care Center. He was 67. A celebration of life will be held in January. Weldon Paul LeMay was born on May 1, 1951, in Delta to Roll and Carol (Hammond) LeMay. He spent his childhood in Paonia and graduated from Paonia High School in 1969. He continued his education by attending mechanical classes in Colorado and California, eventually being certified in wastewater and water distributions systems in Colorado. He never married. Mr. LeMay preformed water certification and waste and water distribution for the town of Paonia. He collected tractors and enjoyed machines of all kinds, especially taking them apart and putting them back together. He also enjoyed classical and country music and playing the French horn. He went with his grandfather who played and was part of the Paonia Clown Band. He is survived by a sister, Linda LeMay; and close family friends. He was preceded in death by his parents and a sister, Peggy. Taylor Funeral Service

and Crematory is handling the arrangements. Visit the internet obituary and sign the online guest registry at www. taylorfuneralservice.com.

grandchildren; and 16 great-grandchildren. Taylor Funeral Service and Crematory is handling the arrangements. Visit the internet obituary and sign the online guest registry at www. taylorfuneralservice.com.

Margaret Turtura

Gila Guillen DeGomez

Delta resident Gila Guillen DeGomez died Dec. 20, 2018, at San Juan Living Center in Montrose. She was 85. Visitation is scheduled for 2-4 p.m. Sunday, Jan. 6, at Taylor Funeral Service Chapel. Rosary will be recited at 9 a.m. Tuesday, Jan. 8, at St. Michael’s Catholic Church. Mass of Christian burial will be Tuesday, Jan. 8, at 10 a.m. at St. Michael’s Catholic Church with Father Albeiro HerreraCiro officiating. Burial will follow at Mesa View Cemetery. Gila Guillen was born in San Nicolas, Mexico, on Sept. 20, 1933, to Alfredo and Cleotilde (Petatan) Guillen. She spent her life in Acapulco, Mexico, before moving to Delta in 2000. She married Alejandro Gomez in Mexico in April 1962. Mrs. DeGomez enjoyed cooking, visiting with friends, shopping, homemaking, sewing, spending time with her family and prayer. She is survived by her husband, Alejandro Gomez of Delta; sons, Manuel Damazo of Delta and Pedro Damazo of Rifle; brothers, Alejandro Guillen and Humberto Guillen, both of Ometepec, Guerrero, Mexico; sisters, Deli Guillen and Yolando Guillen of Ometepec, Guerrero, Mexico; 10

Delta resident Margaret Turtura died Dec. 15, 2018, at Willow Tree Care Center. She was 82. Margaret V. Mercer was born on Dec. 29, 1935, in Newfoundland, Canada, to Sheas and Tryphenia (Powell) Mercer. She spent her childhood and attended school in Newfoundland, Canada. She married Robert Turtura and they had six children. Mrs. Turtura enjoyed gardening, crocheting, baking and painting. She is survived by two sons, Craig (Peggy) Turtura of Cedaredge and Robert Turtura; four daughters, Christine (Bruce) Davidson of Washington, Diane (David) Breece of Delta, Cheryl (Chris) Mcpherson of Cordell, Okla., and Janice Turtura of Kissimmee, Fla.; one brother, Maxwell Mercer of Canada; 15 grandchildren; and 19 great-grandchildren. She was preceded in death by her husband, Robert; and two greatgrandchildren. Taylor Funeral Service and Crematory is handling the arrangements. Visit the internet obituary and sign the online guest registry at www. taylorfuneralservice.com.

M.C. “Moe” Kreutz

Longtime Delta educator M.C. “Moe” Kreutz died Dec. 22, 2018, at the Holly Creek Retirement Center in Centennial. He was 99. Graveside service at Delta Cemetery is pending. Taylor Funeral Service and Crematory is handling the arrangements. Visit the internet obituary at www.taylorfuneral service.com.

Sharon Renner June 4, 1937 ~ Dec. 15, 2018 Sharon Renner passed away at her home on Dec. 15, 2018, at the age of 81. Sharon was born to Lloyd Miller and Fannie GoddingMiller in Wilbur, Neb. She lived in Grand Junction in the late 1960s and 1970s, when she was known as Sharon Martin, and returned to live in Grand Junction again this year to be close to her son. Sharon is survived by her husband, Herb Renner. Also surviving her are her children, Sheryll Minteer-Abernathy and Mark Minteer, her step children, Glen Renner and Roxanne Schrader, nine grand-

children (who called her “Pink Grandma,” after her favored color choice), and 16 greatgrandchildren. Sharon was an accomplished artist,

and contributed daily to the building of her former home on the lower slopes of Mt. Simcoe in Washington. The home was completed 25 years ago, and she lived in that beautiful setting until returning to Grand Junction with her husband this year. Sharon and Herb recently joined Valley Church in Grand Junction, and they loved their new church family there. A celebration of Sharon’s life will be scheduled for the spring, when her grandchildren can attend. Care was entrusted to Affordable Memorial Care of Clifton, Colo. Paid obituary

More state parks join reservation-only camping Starting in 2019, it will be easier than ever for campers to reserve a campsite at 20 of Colorado’s state parks. Effective Jan. 1, 15 state parks will convert to a “reservationonly” system after it was tested successfully by five parks in 2018. Under the new system, campers can reserve a site, 24/7, anywhere from six months in advance up until the day of their arrival. It will be as easy as logging into cpwshop.com from your computer or smartphone, or by calling 800-2445613. Park managers in the pilot program reported success with eliminating the three-day reservation window and switching to a system where campers reserved their own spots via phone or online the day they plan to arrive at the park or up to six months in advance. The ability to reserve

a site on the same day eliminates the need for campers to gamble on a first-come, first-served spot, only to arrive at the park and find that there aren’t any spots available. What if someone occupies a site they haven’t reserved? Campers who occupy a reservation-only campsite without a reservation will be subject to a citation. All campers must reserve a campsite prior to occupying the site. This can be done 24/7 at cpwshop. com or by calling 1-800244-5613. Also beginning Jan. 1, CPW is eliminating its $10 reservation-only camping fee when calling or using the website to reserve a site. It’s never been easier to book a campsite at a Colorado state park! Please note: Cellular coverage at some state

parks (like Arkansas Headwaters Recreation Area, State Forest and Highline) can range from spotty to non-existent. CPW is advising those interested in camping at these parks to make their reservations online or by phone before arrival. State parks currently participating in this program are Cheyenne Mountain, Eleven Mile, Staunton, St. Vrain and Trinidad Lake. State parks joining the program on Jan. 1 are Arkansas Headwaters Recreation Area, Boyd Lake, Cherry Creek, Golden Gate Canyon, Highline Lake, Jackson Lake, John Martin Reservoir Lathrop, Mueller North Sterling Pearl Lake, Ridgway State Forest. Steamboat Lake and Yampa River. Lake Pueblo and Chatfield will join the program on April 1.

Delta County Independent

ACTIVITIES

Wednesday, December 26, 2018

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Colorado Parks and Wildlife is pleased to welcome a new year by once again participating in First Day Hikes. Over 30 events are scheduled in state parks across Colorado on New Year’s Day as part of America’s State Parks First Day Hikes initiative. A three-mile hike is planned around Sweitzer Lake, with a wildlife and bird watching interpretive talk along the way. All ages are invited to meet at the visitor center at 10 a.m. Tuesday,

Jan. 1, to ring in the new year. “Since 2012, state parks across Colorado and the nation have offered hikes on Jan. 1 to encourage individuals and families to begin the New Year with a rejuvenating and healthy hike at their local state park,” says Crystal Dreiling, Trinidad Lake State Park manager. “Led by park staff or volunteers, First Day Hikes encourage outdoor exploration and enjoyment as a healthy lifestyle choice, while at the same time

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. Alive at 65. Friends of the Cedaredge Library will host a presentation by Darold Sloan on safe driving tips at Cedaredge Library. The presentation will start at 2 p.m. Jan. 10 and will be followed by the friends regular meeting. Surface Creek Trail StoryWalk®. The December StoryWalk® book on the Surface Creek Trail is “Santasaurus’ Adventure” written and illustrated by Cedaredge High School students Grace Hatheway, Sophia McCrackin and Abby Williams. Find out how the story goes on the Surface Creek Trail. Then, visit the Cedaredge Library for 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 Café. Bring your devices! Bring your questions! Staff at Cedaredge Library will help you clear up your confusion with technology. From smartphones and laptops to tablets and computers, our resident techies will do their best to get you going. The second and fourth Fridays of every month from 2 to 4 p.m. Digging Your Roots Genealogy Group. If you have a nagging curiosity about your family’s beginning or a family legend you have always wanted to prove, then

Fundraiser planned for furry friends The Delta County Humane Society’s annual fundraiser is scheduled Sunday, Dec. 30, from 3 to 6 p.m. at 796 1525 Road. Enjoy refreshments, beautiful Christmas decorations and drawings, all for a suggested donation of $5.

join the “Digging Your Roots” genealogy group at Cedaredge Library. The Cedaredge genealogy group meets the first Friday of every month through June from 10:30 a.m. to noon. Crawford Storytimes. Storytimes for babies, tots and preschoolers are Thursdays starting at 10:30 a.m. Contact the library at 399-7783 for details. 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. Bucket Bands and Rhythm Jams. Third, fourth and fifth graders are invited to Delta Library for a fun, musical jam session led by percussionist Gerry Lell. Each session is open to 10 drummers on a first come, first served basis. Learn to play rhythm with bucket drums, boomwhackers, drum pads and more! No previous experience is necessary. Experienced players are welcome. Every Wednesday, Jan. 9-30, at 5:15 p.m. and every Saturday, Jan. 5-26, at 10:30 a.m. Call 874-9630 for more information. Tech Information Station. Delta Library offers an open tech information station in the conference room for all ages and skill levels. Attendees will also receive an introduction to utilizing library databases for online research and classes. Monday, Jan. 7, at 4 p.m. Delta Friends Meeting. Friends of the Delta Library meet Tuesday, Jan. 8, at 3 p.m. at Delta Library. The public is welcome and encouraged to attend. Sweitzer Lake State Park StoryWalk®. The December StoryWalk® at Sweitzer Lake State Park is “The Pirate Cruncher” by Johnny Duddle, on display through December. A mysterious old pirate tells a tavern of salty seadogs about an island bursting with hidden treasure. But once they set sail, he also mentions that it is guarded by the

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seen growth in the number of Colorado state parks participating in the program. This year, visitors can look forward to enjoying hikes and walks at more than 25 participating state parks. Visitors participating in First Day Hikes will be able to start the year off on the right foot by spending the day in some of Colorado’s most spectacular nature. Visit the Colorado Parks and Wildlife First Day Hikes web page at stateparks.org to locate additional events.

What’s happening at your library?

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remind the public that outdoor recreation can be enjoyed year-round!” After joining the national program in 2012, each new year has

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terrible Pirate Cruncher. When the pirates’ greed gets the better of their fear, there’s a big surprise in store! Find out how the story goes on the Sweitzer Lake State Park StoryWalk® in December. Then, visit Delta Library to listen to the book on CD and create a pirate map. Dress for Winter Scavenger Hunt. Kids are invited to Delta Library to search for the necessary clothes to dress a paper doll or monster for the winter weather. All month long in December during library hours. Council of Teens. The Council of Teens will help plan programs and activities as well as come up with books to add to the teen collection. Meets every Monday at 4 p.m. Genealogy One-onone. The Delta genealogy group meets on the second and fourth Mondays of each month at 5 p.m. Talk & Tangle Yarn. This is a group of knit and crochet enthusiasts who get together to talk and work on their individual projects. Anyone is welcome to join. Mondays starting at 5:30 p.m. Hotchkiss Storytimes. Baby, tot and preschooler storytimes are Wednesdays starting at 10:30 a.m. Contact the library at 399-7781 for details. Master Builder Club. Explore your creativity as a master builder with LEGO and other materials! Join us for monthly design themes and free building time. All ages welcome, children under 7 should bring an adult. Tuesday, Jan. 8, at 4 p.m. at Hotchkiss Library. Knitting Group. Do you knit or crochet? Join us for ideas, help, and

good company the second Thursday of every month October through May at 10:30 a.m. Anyone is welcome to join! Paonia Storytimes. Baby, tot and preschooler storytimes are Tuesdays starting at 10:30 a.m. Contact library at 399-7881 for details. Movie and Popcorn. Kids are invited to Paonia Library for popcorn and a movie that tells the story of the colorful, musical, creatures that live safely hidden in a tree ... until a large and hungry Bergen interrupts the party! Find out what happens on Thursday, December 27, at 2 p.m. at Paonia Library. Evening Concert with Michael Gulezian. Guitar virtuoso Michael Gulezian will play a rare local concert in the Paonia Library. Seating is limited on a first come, first served basis. Tuesday, Jan. 8, at 7 p.m. Tech Café. Starting in January! Paonia Library offers an open Tech Café in the community room for all ages and skill levels to seek tech assistance with computers, tablets and phones. Every Wednesday from 2 to 3 p.m. Convergence: Call for Submissions. The Paonia Literary Committee is seeking original works of fiction, non-fiction, poetry, essays and photographs for the 2019 book “Convergence: Words and Images from the West Elks” (formerly called “Write On.” Submissions must be made online by Jan. 28. For more information on how to submit your work visit the Blue Sage website at www.bluesage.org.

Biologist will talk about white-tailed ptarmigans On Thursday, Jan. 3, Amy Seglund, conservation biologist with the Colorado Department of Parks and Wildlife, will talk about white-tailed ptarmigans. These small (13 inches in length) birds nest in high alpine habitats, including rock fields, tundra grasses and willows. In the Rocky Mountains, the whitetailed ptarmigan is the only year-round avian resident. These birds are masters in camouflage and become entirely white

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in the winter to better blend in with the alpine conditions they inhabit. They have historically been known as mountain quail, snow grouse, or white quail. Seglund will review the results of her studies related to this alpine icon. There is no charge for this presentation, which is sponsored by the Black Canyon Chapter of the Audubon Society. The presentation begins at 7 p.m. at the Montrose Field House.

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A8 Wednesday, December 26, 2018

BUSINESS

Delta County Independent

Oil/gas working group reports to the county BY ANNETTE BRAND Staff Writer

Members of the Oil and Gas Working Group (O&GWG) met with Delta County Board of Commissioners (BoCC) and the county planning commission at Heritage Hall in Hotchkiss to share with both commissions the results of the working group’s meetings since early June 2018. The county planning commission adopted the 2018 Delta County Master Plan in May 2018. A recommendation of the Master Plan was to form an oil and gas working group to help the county evaluate its current oil and gas regulations, which have not been sub-

stantively updated since they were adopted in the early 2000s. The O&GWG was tasked with helping the county evaluate its existing regulations to ensure the county is exercising the appropriate spectrum of tools available to the county when regulating oil and gas development. The approach of the O&GWG included: 1. Define and better understand areas where the county has legal jurisdiction over oil and gas activity. 2. Research science from universities, industry, conservation groups and other sources. 3. Research land use language and mitigation

from other counties. 4. Evaluate the county’s oil and gas regulations regarding research completed, and identify any gaps or opportunities missed, or in areas where the county’s oil and gas regulations are out of alignment with the county’s legal jurisdictions. 5. Develop policy recommendation to be considered by the BoCC for inclusion in the county land use regulations. To establish common ground, the participants discussed topics they felt were important to address. These were organized and categorized and the following focus areas were identified: water quality, air qual-

Major changes to state liquor laws go into effect Jan. 1 As of Jan. 1, consumers will be able to buy fullstrength beer at grocery and convenience stores in Colorado that previously sold 3.2 percent beer due to new state liquor laws passed in 2016 by the Colorado General Assembly. “These new regulations are some of the largest, sweeping changes to the state’s liquor laws since prohibition,” said Patrick Maroney, Liquor Enforcement Division director. “The Liquor Enforcement Division has worked with our stakeholders, licensees, and local partners to educate and inform those impacted by the liquor law changes about what they can expect in 2019.”

The changes to state liquor laws in Colorado were part of an industry regulatory transformation approved by the state legislature in 2016 (SB16-197) and expanded on with additional legislation passed in 2018 (SB18-243). The changes to the governing enforcement laws of the liquor industry in Colorado are complex and affect a variety of activities concerning the manufacturing, selling and purchasing of beer. Other areas affected by the new laws include deliveries, cost of goods sold, the age of employees, purchasing and distribution practices, license types, ownership, tasting, distance

restrictions, and public consumption. Where consumers can buy wine, sake, malt liquor and spirits has not changed. Changes to recent liquor laws only affect beer sales. Malt, vinous or spirituous liquor may be purchased at licensed retail liquor stores or liquor-licensed drugstores. Lower percentage strength beer (3.2 percent beer) may still be available in Colorado after Jan. 1, as retailers may want to offer this option for consumers and as the market demands the product. However, there is no mandate that retailers sell beer 3.2 percent or less.

THE TEAM YOU TRUST

ity, hazardous materiuals/emergency response, transportation, coordination with other agencies, exemptions and regulatory gaps, reasonable foreseeable development, general policy vs. regulatory (land use vs. Master Plan/policy distinctions). Key takeaways from the educational discussions and discussions with other counties include a descriptive approach to county regulations, rather than prescriptive approaches, to help reduce conflicts between state and local control, thereby reducing the potential for preemption. The focus of Delta County’s local government designee to the Colorado Oil and Gas Conservation Commission (COGCC) on monitoring is unique. Equally unique is Garfield County’s LGD’s focus on information sharing and relationship building. While COGCC is the primary regulator of oil and gas activity, CDPHE plays an equally important role in monitoring. There are numerous conflicting studies about oil and gas development. Significant data collection is occurring related to oil and gas develop-

ment, but interpreting this data is challenging. Throughout the working group process, it became increasingly clear that, while it is important for the county to have quality effective regulations in place, Delta County will be primarily a pass-through county impacted by oil and gas development occurring in Gunnison and Mesa counties. The O&GWG identified numerous issues and ideas that need to be discussed with these neighboring counties. The O&GWG recommends that the county pursue more formalized agreements with Gunnison County in particular, but also with Mesa County, to address impacts to Delta County from development outside the county. The O&GWG also recognized the importance of having a strong working relationship with COGCC. COGCC has expressed its availability to review Delta County’s regulations as they are developed and to provide input on how to avoid, from COGCC’s perspective, issues of preemption. Tony Vervolet, Delta County’s local govern-

ment designee to the COGCC and staff to the O&GWG stated emphatically, “Keep the O&GWG together as a valued resource.” The county commissioners and county planning commission members agreed and members of the O&GWG expressed their willingness to continue as a resource to the county on oil and gas matters. Members of the O&GWG are Wendell Koontz, Natasha Leger, Michael Cleary, Mark Waltermier, Mike Ludlow and Karen Ortiz. Eric Sanford of Solar Energy International was a member for a few meetings but determined the focus of the O&GWG was not a good fit with his company focus, so he stepped back into a monitoring/public participation role. Ludlow took Sanford’s place. Early member Alex Johnson of Western Slope Conservation Center left WSCC near the end of the O&GWG process and Karen Ortiz stepped into Alex’s place. Elyse Casselberry, county community and economic development director, also served as staff to the O&GWG.

DCMH teams up with local farmer to collect food Delta County Memorial Hospital departments competed in the hospital’s annual food drive this year and also teamed up with a local farmer to donate

10,027.82 pounds of food and over 500 pounds of pet food to the Abraham Connection and food banks in Delta, Cedaredge and Hotchkiss. The generous Delta area farmer, who wishes to remain anonymous, donated 5,950 pounds of dry beans, potatoes and onions. The winning hospital team composed of cardiopulmonary/respiratory/

sleep lab, home health, information systems, medical records, physician billing and radiology departments brought in 1,252.4 pounds of food. Interdepartmental competition generated 4,087.82 pounds of food. Pet food was donated to TAILS Animal Shelter in Delta and Surface Creek Animal Shelter in Cedaredge.

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NORTH FORK December 26, 2018

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Brunner’s legal fees are topic of special meeting BY TAMIE MECK Staff Writer

Following a Dec. 11 executive session, Paonia trustees voted not to appeal District Court Judge Steven Schultz’s conclusion that former trustee Bill Brunner is entitled to reimbursement of legal fees related to a suit filed against him by the town custodian of record in October 2017. And while it won’t appeal the judge’s findings, the board will respond to the affidavit of fees “appropriately as discussed in executive session.” The affidavit was filed by Brunner’s attorney, William Fritsche, according to town attorney Bo Nerlin, who provided an outline of the town’s case against Brunner at the meeting. The affidavit, said Nerlin, seeks reimbursement

by Brunner under the court order of more than $32,000. That amount is more than twice what Brunner originally estimated he was due in legal costs and fees. Brunner said his estimate was an approximation based on the amount he paid to retain Fritsche. Fritsche billed him for more than 150 hours. “The town drug this out for almost a year,” said Brunner. “This is on them.” The board of trustees will hold a special meeting at 4 p.m., Thursday, Dec. 27, to receive legal advice from the town attorney specific to Brunner’s legal fees. Following the executive session the board may discuss possible authorization of the town to pay the fees.

Retiring employee recognized by Hotchkiss council BY PAT SUNDERLAND Managing Editor

The December meeting of the Hotchkiss Town Council opened with cake in honor of Leonard McCulloch, who is retiring after 18-plus years with the town’s public works department. McCulloch has worked in every phase of the town’s operations, including water, wastewater and streets since he joined the staff in August 2000. After the meeting resumed and the floor was opened to public comments, Wendell Koontz, former mayor, said it’s good to see how much the community cares, as evidenced by the bags of toys and gifts piled up in a corner of the council meeting room. The town has collected gifts and clothing for 12 families and a total of 29 children in the community. Mayor Larry Wilkening recused himself from a discussion involving a boundary adjustment to property formerly owned by him and his wife. The property adjoins Hotchkiss Town Hall. The new owner, a limited liability company named AspenWhite LLC, is seeking a boundary adjustment on the west line of the property. The adjustment would cure the encroachment of two outbuildings, an encroachment that was discovered when the property changed hands and a survey was conducted. The survey revealed that the boundary, which had been marked by a fence line since the 1920s, is not accurate. The town agreed to give up 0.026 acres, or 1,142 square feet, to correct the problem. A vote of the people is not required, noted attorney Bo Nerlin, because there is no public use of that property, as was the case with the town shop. Citizen Tom Wills said

he had no objection to the boundary adjustment, but he felt public notice was vague and inadequate. “The town should acknowledge it is giving up nine feet of property,” he said. Nerlin said the boundary adjustment was the subject of a public hearing during a prior planning commission meeting and details were included in the Dec. 13 meeting packet. He advised there was no reason trustees could not act on the matter. All trustees voted in favor of the adjustment. Next, they reviewed the multi-jurisdictional hazard mitigation plan that’s making the rounds of municipalities and special districts. The plan was adopted with some minor changes to the wording specific to Hotchkiss. A franchise agreement with DMEA/Elevate was approved on second reading, and the 2019 budget was adopted. The mill levy was set at 10.260 mills, with a temporary tax credit of 2.154 to resolve TABOR issues. The town anticipates $73,835 in property tax revenue for 2019. Other sources of revenue include city/county sales tax, specific ownership tax, franchise taxes, severance tax, mineral leasing and fees for the delivery of water, sewer and trash services. A resolution appropriating an additional $8,000 to the garbage fund was approved. The amount budgeted for 2018 proved to be insufficient due to an unanticipated increase in trash collection fees. A year-end bonus of $250 in City Market gift cards was approved for each town employee. Each trustee will receive a $50 gift card. Under department reports, public works director Mike Owens urged citizens to continue to conserve water. “Even HOTCHKISS COUNCIL TO B2

Spreading holiday cheer

The Paonia High School Swing Choir, under the direction of Dee Holt, left, performs a trio of Christmas songs for Paonia Senior Center diners on Monday. The choir sang a medley of songs from ‘A Charlie Brown Christmas,’ ‘Silent Night,’ and The Drifters’ rendition of ‘White Christmas,’ with solos by Jesse Burns (baritone) and Soul Connolly (soprano). “May your days, may your days, may your days be merry and bright.”

Jan Ryan retires after 18 years of library service BY TRACY IHNOT Delta County Libraries

Jan Ryan began her career with Delta County Libraries in December of 2000 when Crawford Community Library was located upstairs at Crawford Town Hall. “It was cramped, lacked climate control, and the bathrooms downstairs were ‘scary,’ according to many patrons,” Ryan smiles. Ryan and Kathy Little have worked together in Crawford since then. Little, currently the Crawford Library manager, has mixed feelings about Ryan’s retirement. “After working together for 18 years, we have become more like sisters than co-workers,” Little explains. “We are a team and I will miss having her around every day. I wish her the very best in retirement.” Ryan and Little have seen many changes in Crawford since 2000. When Ryan was hired, Crawford Community Library was in the process of trying to raise funds to build a new library. “I served on the Crawford Library Service Foundation,” Ryan commented. “We finally saw our goal accomplished when the new library opened in July 2008.” Since then, Ryan and Little have spent their days working in a beautiful environment, with plenty of space, proper heating and cooling, and welcoming restrooms. However, a new building is not the only change they have seen over the years. “What has changed the most, besides the lovely new building, is our dependence on computers and electronic devices for every aspect of

Photo submitted

At a recent all-staff training, longtime Delta County Libraries staff member, Jan Ryan, was honored for her many years of service. Ryan retires at the end of December. what we do. There has been a lot to learn over the years. Computers and what they can do has evolved so rapidly that, for someone who wasn’t raised with them, it is quite challenging to keep up.” Despite that challenge, Ryan has found great value in being a part of the Crawford community and connecting with library patrons. Looking back, she has a lot to reflect on. “The most memorable moments would be the times I spent with kids. I did storytime for many years, as well as summer reading program. It was delightful to see chil-

Crawford council approves funds to tackle capital projects in 2019 BY RANDY SUNDERLAND General Manager

After postponing the December meeting a week, to Dec. 12, the Crawford Town Council set about adopting its budget for 2019. With only two local residents — along with three people who were there for other agenda items — the meeting opened with a public hearing to hear input from the public and staff. Bruce Bair, public works director, began the discussion by noting there were a few changes being suggested from staff. He handed out a “wish list” of capital improvement projects for council to consider. Later in the meeting, Mayor Wanda Gofforth said the list is a “real good start” for updating the master plan. Bair said the reserves have been building over recent years, and he felt comfortable in proposing a few capital

projects for 2019. Improvements and repairs to the sidewalk, wall and fencing around the park at Crawford Town Hall constituted the bulk of the projects. Bair explained it will increase General Fund expenses by $40,000 and the Conservation Trust Fund (CTF) expenses by $15,000. To fund the project, he proposed using $40,000 from reserves and $15,000 from CTF. He also said there may be assistance from the county. Other projects include $10,000 for lift stations for pumps and grating for the sewer plant, and fencing to improve security at the water treatment facility. There were no comments from the public during the hearing. Mayor Wanda Gofforth ended the hearing and convened the regular meeting. When the budget came up

Photo Tamie Meck

on the regular agenda, there were only a few comments. Trustee Hetty Todd liked the proposed concrete work at the park. Mayor Gofforth noted the fencing around the park will be wrought iron, matching the fencing around the playground area. As approved, the 2019 budget totals projected revenues of $127,600 to the General Fund, $102,500 to the Water Fund, $106,100 to the Sewer Fund (includes $12,000 from reserves), and $1,851 to the Conservation Trust Fund (CTF). On the expense side, the town expects to spend $125,355 from the General Fund, $87,823 from the Water Fund, $103,823 from the Sewer Fund and $18,000 from the CTF. Aside from the capital projects outlined by Bair in the public hearing, expenses are for normal operations and maintenance. The town splits its payroll

expense across its General, Water and Sewer funds. For 2019, a total of $125,419 is budgeted for payroll expenses for the public works director, town clerk, part-time public works assistant and council. This is down from the $160,950 budgeted last year. In 2018, the town restructured its public works assistant position to replace a full-time worker with part-time staff to reduce payroll expenses. According to budget documents, the town actually spent $124,475 for payroll in 2018. The trustees approved three resolutions for the budget process: the first to adopt the 2019 budget; the second to appropriate revenues to the specific funds; and the third to set the mill levy at 2.42 mills. Also on the agenda was consideration of year-end bonuses for the town’s two CRAWFORD BUDGET TO B2

dren turned on to reading and gratifying to listen as they gradually learned to read themselves.” In recent years, Ryan has served as interlibrary loan coordinator for the library district from her office at Crawford Library. She processes thousands of patron requests each year for books and other materials from libraries outside of Delta County. “How rewarding it has been to get those items that otherwise would not be available to our patrons,” Ryan reflects. Collections and systems administrator Leah Morris adds to this, saying, “Jan’s commitment to the whole library district is made clear when you look at the numbers of books that have passed through her hands for readers at all of our libraries. Her interlibrary loan role is unique and she has met the challenge wonderfully.” In retirement, Ryan is looking forward to staying home on snowy days, hiking, taking time to relax, reading, taking walks with her dogs, painting, scrapbooking, beading, kayaking, traveling, and maybe even being a substitute librarian in Crawford. Little will be happy to hear that her co-worker and friend of 18 years will not be going far from home. Ryan even plans to get involved with the Friends of Crawford Library. “I want to help with the good work they do,” she says. Ryan begins her new journey in the new year and library staff members, board members, and friends wish her well and thank her for her many years of service. To learn more about Delta County Libraries visit them on Facebook or at www. deltalibraries.org.

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Delta County Independent

Crawford budget FROM PAGE B1 employees. Mayor Gofforth introduced the topic by reminding the trustees that last year the town paid $1,500, split evenly between three employees. She suggested the same amount, divided between the two full-time employees. She added it could be funded from the amount the town did not pay trustees due to canceled meetings. The trustees were not inclined to increase the bonus. After discussing different amounts, John Paton’s motion to pay $500 bonuses to public works director Bruce Bair and town clerk Cally Gallegos was approved by a unanimous vote.

During the discussion, trustee Mike Tiedmann noted it would be nice to standardize bonus amounts and not “just go off what is left over each year.” Trustee Jessica Hart added, “We do not need to spend money just because we saved it.” In other business: • two agenda items were rescheduled to the Jan. 9 meeting: adoption of the multijurisdictional Hazard Mitigation Plan; and a presentation from

Nancy Hovde, development coordinator for HopeWest; • the trustees authorized the town attorney to draft a franchise agreement with Elevate, with possible consideration at the January meeting; and • scheduled the January meeting for Jan. 9, beginning at 7 p.m. Normally the board of trustees meets on the first Wednesday of the month.

Hotchkiss council FROM PAGE B1 though we have seen more moisture as of late we are still in a severe

Photos by Tamie Meck

Lighting up Hotchkiss

Hotchkiss K-8 National Junior Honor Society had the fun assignment of judging residential and business holiday light displays for a contest sponsored by the Hotchkiss Community Chamber of Commerce. The business winners were Hotchkiss Inn, ﬁrst place (above), and Ace Hardware (below), runner-up. Cowboy Collectibles (at the bottom) has a stunning display, but unfortunately the lights were turned off when students toured the town. Residential winners were John and Billie Marta, 583 Juniper Drive, ﬁrst, and Amanda Meredith, 476 Willow Drive, runner-up.

drought,” he said in a written trustee report. “Last summer and fall drained our storage reservoirs. The moisture we are getting is locked up in ice and snow. There is still minimal water running in Leroux Creek and it fluctuates greatly with temperatures. Conserve!” Owens and town engineer Joanne Fagan provided an update on the Barrow Mesa water storage tank, which is still lacking a dome lid. They are also monitoring regulatory changes that could affect the water treatment and wastewater treatment plants. In closing, Owens mentioned the possibility of obtaining a used bucket truck from TDS. Marshal Dan Miller reported that Deputy Chris McDonald has returned. “After a month of working in private security, Chris found he was missing law enforcement and the town,” the marshal said in his written update. “He came to us and asked if we could take him back. The choice was easy and we welcomed him back.” The sale of the town shop was discussed briefly. Mayor Wilkening had prepared a list of options for trustees to review. All agreed there is no rush, since the shop can’t be vacated until a new facility has been erected. He closed the meeting with a report from Colleen Dolan has a CDOT meeting he’d attended that afternoon been selected by the and his thanks to the P.E.O. International as a town staff and trustees. recipient of $900 from the scholarship fund called Program for Continuing ••• Education. She is spon“A kind word can warm sored by P.E.O. Chapter three months of winter.” GT/Delta. As a candidate, Chap— Japanese Proverb ter GT found Dolan’s

Colleen Dolan receives PCE scholarship creative classroom filled with bright and appealing colors. A tree mural on one wall was magnetic so that her students could attach objects to the mural. Toad stool chairs occupied a quiet area of the room. From the interview with Dolan it was obvious that she had a passion for teaching children with an added imaginative approach. Currently, she teaches 11 kindergarten students as a part of the NFSIS (North Fork School of Integrated Study), a nonpublic school program. However, her classroom is at Paonia Elementary School. Dolan’s educational focus is to obtain an (ATL) Alternative Teaching License for K-6 Elementary Education Cer-

tification. She enrolled in the program for licensing in August 2018. Her first course was at Mesa State University. From January-May 2019 she will study to complete the certification requirements under the supervision of Jenny Hart at (BOCES) Board of Cooperative Services. Dolan was interviewed by P.E.O. Chapter GT President Pauline Carr and Scholarship Chairman Claudia King. P.E.O. is a philanthropic educational organization offering scholarships to women. Scholarships are available at the local, state and international level. Current recipient of the local $1,000 scholarship given each May to a Delta County senior was Randy Rapke.

Photo courtesy Claudia King

Colleen Dolan, recipient of a continuing education scholarship from P.E.O. International with some of her kindergarten students.

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Delta County Independent

Wednesday, December 26, 2018

Hotchkiss kids have new tool for reading BY NATHAN CLAY Contributing Writer

Hotchkiss kids are getting a new tool to help them learn to read. Hotchkiss’ K-8 school recently implemented a new program geared for 3rd through 8th grades called Achieve 3000. This is a supplemental reading program designed to keep readers growing at their own pace, yet still challenging students to achieve higher levels of proficiency. Achieve 3000 is level specific, meaning that any given reading assignment is geared specifically to the ability of the reader. So, as the readers vocabulary expands and their knowledge of syntax grows, they can continually be challenged by what they read and not fall into a rut of only reading material that is below their level. The curriculum description from the Achieve 3000 website,

www.achieve3000.com, sounds very impressive indeed, “Accelerate Literacy. Achieve Lifelong Success. Achieve3000® provides the only patented, cloud-based solutions that deliver daily differentiated instruction for nonfiction reading and writing that are precisely tailored to each student’s Lexile® reading level.” The website is a good resource of information for anyone that wants to drill down into the exact process further. Let’s do a small mind exercise. Imagine a standard school room. Out of the twenty some children that are there learning, some will be reading at the pace that is expected of their grade level, some will be below the mark for one reason or another and some will be above the expected level. Then there will be outliers, a few kids that are so far

above or below the level of their peers that they stand out and require special attention. For the majority of students the skill level that they need to apply to their schoolwork will be just about right. Not too hard, not too easy. Challenging enough to grow, not so far advanced that the material is beyond comprehension. Hotchkiss K8 staff have chosen the Achieve 3000 program so that each student is capable of learning to the maximum of their potential. Achieve 3000 has the ability to cope with all of the needs of these different individuals. Accelerating the advanced, yet nurturing those in need of a helping hand. Consider those outlier students again. Those students that slot in at the very ends of the bell curve. Perhaps, a student that sits at the toe end of that curve, a stu-

dent that may continually struggle with those assignments that most of their peers find basic. A student who, through no fault of their own, finds school difficult, belittling and foreign. Or, at the other end of this spectrum, a student that is so far advanced in a subject or three that they belong in an advanced studies group or class. Both are good kids who are enthusiastic about school, but both could be restrained from their potential in different ways. One thing is certain in such exceptional cases, these children (like all children) are of the utmost worthiness to learn. The ‘head of the class’ may be prevented from reaching their full potential by

the barrier that arises when their school work fails to challenge them adequately. Many reasons for stagnation could come into play here. Perhaps the majority of the material given to them is far below their level, or they become bored and slip into a daydream. On the other side of the coin, the student that may need more help or direct attention from the instructor during reading time might feel frustrated or ashamed at their deficiencies, potentially causing them to develop a mental block or other defense mechanism. If this negative behavior is too often reinforced, it could seriously affect the student’s long-term ability to effectively learn to

read, along with all of the associated challenges that could present themselves later on in their schooling and life. There are so many barriers to learning in the life of a child. Finding and choosing a book that is helping them grow while stimulating their imaginations doesn’t have to be one of them. Perhaps our focus on school choice as the solution will be re-thought slightly in the future. A possible future that will take a page from the Achieve 3000 program. A time when, perhaps, we will focus on maximizing the ability of each and every student that wants to learn no matter which building the classroom is in.

Volunteers invited to Audubon bird count The annual Audubon Christmas bird count concludes Saturday, Jan. 5, in the Hotchkiss area. Each year, the bird count mobilizes over 70,000 volunteers in more than 2,400 locations across the Western Hemisphere to track the health

of bird populations at a scale that professional scientists could not accomplish on their own. Data compiled by volunteers in the area records every individual bird and bird species seen in a specified area, contributing to a vast citizen science

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network that continues a tradition stretching back more than 100 years. The Audubon Society and other organizations like the BLM use data collected by volunteers to assess the health of bird populations and help guide conservation actions. The count takes place within count circles, which focus on specific geographical areas. Each circle is overseen by a count compiler. Count circles are assigned to participants at the meeting sites below. Novice birders will join a group that includes at least one experienced birdwatcher. In addition, if your home is within the boundaries of a count circle, you can participate from home and report the birds that visit your feeder. Those wishing to particiate Jan. 5 are asked to meet at 8 a.m. at the City Market parking lot in Hotchkiss to get into small groups. Coffee and bottled water will be provided. Volunteer Andrea Robinsong will be hosting a catered gathering at her house following the count. Please contact Adam Petry for more information or to RSVP at 970-462-8702 or petry@westernbiology. com. All volunteers need to bring warm clothes (dress for weather), snack and/ or lunch, drinks, binoculars, spotting scope (if you have one) and bird identification books. Volunteers will receive maps of birding areas, checklists of birds that may be observed and additional instructions. For more information about the Christmas bird count, visit Audubon’s website at http://www. audubon.org/join-christ mas-bird-count. For additional information call the numbers listed above or contact Bruce Ackerman of Black Canyon Audubon at Bruceackermanaud@aol. com.

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PEOPLE IN THE NEWS

Paonia resident Tiffany Clock graduated from Azusa Pacific University with a Bachelor of Science in Biology on Saturday, Dec. 15, and joined approximately 1,480 graduates at the winter commencement ceremonies. Azusa Pacific University is an evangelical, Christian university committed to God First and excellence in higher education. The university offers its more than 10,000 students a quality education on campus, online, and at seven regional locations throughout southern California.

Students of the Month

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On Nov. 26, the Hotchkiss Elks Lodge recognized three outstanding students for their achievement in academics, their character and/or sports with a dinner and awards. Pictured are Jade Ellenberge, December Student of Month from Paonia High School, Elks leading knight Chery Gordon, David Lozano, November Student of the Month from Paonia High School and Bryce Sheldon, November Student of Month from Hotchkiss High School.

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NORTH FORK TIMES

Delta County Independent

Montessori students conduct food drive

Lighting up Paonia

Photos by Tamie Meck

In the Town of Paonia’s annual judging of Christmas lights displays, the pigs in the yard of the house at 225 Clark (above) caught the judges’ eyes. The owner said she’s not really sure why her husband thought she needed Christmas pigs. In second place was 510 Box Elder (below) and 25 Alder came in third. If you’re out looking at holiday lights, don’t miss the honorable mentions — the Ferguson house, the scary Halloween house and 117 Dorris.

Town of Paonia adopts hazard mitigation plan tion officially adopting its official hazard mitigathe 2018 Multi-Jurisdic- tion plan. “This is the resolution Paonia trustees unani- tional Hazard Mitigation mously passed a resolu- Plan for Delta County as to confirm the town participation” in the plan, said town administrator Ken Knight. Knight said that the plan itself, which replaces the 2009 plan, is hundreds of pages long (and that Police Chief Neil Ferguson and Mayor Charles Stewart participated in numerous meetings during the drafting of the plan). The plan addresses numerous potential hazards, including dam failure, drought, earthquake, flood, hazardous materials releases, landslides and other geological hazards, lightning, wildfire and weather. Ferguson explained that without a disaster plan in place, “FEMA won’t come help us if we have a natural disaster.” Under the Disaster Mitigation Act of 2000 passed by Congress, adopting the plan allows the town to apply for future disaster mitigation grants and is eligible for sub-application to the state under FEMA.

BY TAMIE MECK Staff Writer

During December students at the North Fork Montessori @ Crawford participated in their second annual food drive to benefit the Crawford Food Pantry. More than 930 items were collected. The student council gathered the school’s donations and took them to the food pantry, where they interviewed the program’s founder, Nancy Smith, a former substitute. Smith opened the food bank in her garage, using her own money, in response to seeing how little food many students brought to school in their lunch boxes. “How many families do you help every year?” asked one student. Smith replied, “Over 100 families a year.” Another student asked, “What proportion of your food comes from the NFM@C food drive?” Smith explained that the food drive provides 40 to 50 percent of what is distributed. North Fork Montessori @ Crawford is the only school that donates to the Crawford Food Pantry. “How else do you get your food?” asked a student. “Sometimes people provide financial donations,” said Smith. “Crawford Library has a box for donations. I use my own money when stores have good sales.” Smith was asked, “What season do you see the greatest need, and why?” “Winter is my busiest season because of the lack of outdoor jobs,” she replied.

Photo submitted

Nancy Smith (left) made a delicious spaghetti dinner for the student council of North Fork Montessori @ Crawford to celebrate a successful food drive at the school. The students learned that Nancy enjoys building relationships with people and letting them know that she cares about them. North Fork Montessori @ Crawford principal Bill Eyler celebrated the students’ generosity by

giving $50 to the class which donated the most food and treating all students to ice cream. Crawford Food Pantry is open Monday and Saturday, 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. and Wednesday, 2 to 5 p.m., at the Crawford Thrift Store.

Applications sought for Paonia planning commission opening The Town of Paonia is accepting committee volunteer interest forms from in-town residents wishing to serve on the planning commission. The appointment is necessary to replace former commissioner Dave Knutson, who was recently appointed to the board of trustees. Because the commission’s next meeting is

Exceptional Eagles

tentatively scheduled for Jan. 15, the appointment is expected to be made at the next town council meeting on Jan. 8. Deadline for submitting forms is 4 p.m. Wednesday, Jan. 2. A volunteer interest form is available on the town website, townofpaonia. com, or by emailing corinne@townofpaonia. com.

Photo submitted

On Dec. 17 the pictured Paonia Elementary School students were recognized for demonstrating SOAR behavior. From left to right the students in the back row are Jace McCrain nominated for achievement; Jasmine Vasquez, Zoe Stolmeier, Killian Mazon and Izzy Pack nominated for order, achievement and respect; front row, Zane Brewer for achievement; Hunter Sparks for achievement and respect; Pete St. Ruth for respect; Eli Cooley and Gemma Pack for achievement and respect; Lilah Marie Miller for achievement; Ulysses Heredia for achievement. Way to S.O.A.R. students! Paonia Elementary School provides a SAFE and ORDERLY environment that promotes high ACHIEVEMENT and growth, individuality and RESPECT. Way to SOAR students!

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Cedaredge chamber seeks nominations do throughout the year as business owners or individuDo you know someone who als,” said chamber president dedicates their time to improv- Mitchell Gronenthal. “We ing the community? Do you truly believe that if businesses know a business, non-profit are recognized for their efforts, or entrepreneur who has the community benefits from made leaps and bounds this those efforts in more ways year? Does the person/busi- than we can imagine.” Additionally, the awards ness that comes to mind have dedication, initiative and is a promote growth and economic risk-taker? Do they improve development in Cedaredge. The winners will be Cedaredge? Then you may want to announced at the annual nominate them for the annual Cedaredge Area Chamber of Cedaredge Area Chamber of Commerce Awards Banquet Commerce (CACC) awards! on Jan. 18 at the Grand Mesa Nominations are due by Dec. Arts and Event Center. Nominations should include Photo by Emy Lynn Roque Cisneros 31; chamber members can be nominated by members and the business or organization The fourth grade holiday concert featured songs from around the world such as “Ring the name, primary contact name, Bells, Little Children” from Germany and “Dedushka Moroz” from Russia. While singing along the general public. The categories are: Busi- contact information, and rea- they used hand motions, sign language and other body movements to emphasize the lyrics. ness of the Year, Non-Profit of son for the nomination. Nomithe Year, Volunteer of the Year, nations can be made by emailNew and Improved, Small ing cedaredgeareachamber@ Business of the Year, Entre- gmail.com, writing to PO Box preneur of the Year, Business 278, Cedaredge CO 81413; Woman of the Year, Economic or in person at 245 W. Main pal Dan Renfrow at the fourth from the corresponding counBY EMY LYNN ROQUE CISNEROS Impact of the Year and Life- Street. grade concert. He remarked try. Staff Writer You can also call the office time Business of the Year. For example, ScandinaThe fourth grade class of how the previous night he’d “It’s important to highlight at 970-856-6961 for more via has a month long holiday never seen the gym so full. Cedaredge Elementary School information. the hard work our members Even that evening saw season that ends with a big embodied the holiday spirit at their concert Wednesday, Dec. most seats filled, with eager Christmas tree bonfire “sig19. Their program was one of parents and grandparents naling the triumph of light five for the week for CES. The filming the little ones’ pro- over darkness.” Thanks to several parent kindergarten and first grade gram on their phones. The fourth grade program volunteers the gym’s decor classes held their concerts Dec. 17, Monday evening, the featured holiday songs and resembled a holiday wondersecond and third grade held a carols from 15 countries such land complete with penguins, combined program Tuesday, as France, Scandinavia, Ger- Christmas trees, red and green and want to help children Dec. 18 and the fifth grade many and Poland. In-between everywhere and even a “World BY EMY LYNN ROQUE CISNEROS excel at being the best child class finished out the week on songs children took turns of Christmas” photo backdrop. Staff Writer Afterwards, a bake and Treading about the customs for Thursday, Dec. 20. The annual Little Sprouts they can be.” “We’re so thankful for the the country of the next song. shirt sale raised funds to benCurrently 42 students are Community Preschool Cookie Walk fundraiser on Dec. 15 enrolled in the school, with support and commitment to While the narratives were efit field trips and technology was a success with approxi- openings available for the our kids,” commented princi- read, a student held the flag for the students. mately $2,400 raised. These coming semester. Instructors funds will cover approximate- for the small class size groups ly two months of scholarships are also all certified in early for about 10 students, some education. The school is a nut free of whom have partial scholarzone. “We’re extremely mindships. Little Sprouts began over ful of food allergies and seek 22 years ago with the inten- to do all we can to prevent any every street, even residen- it is $55 a visit. BY EMY LYNN ROQUE CISNEROS tion of providing quality early allergic reactions,” said Ely. tial, gets plowed,” said Mayor The trustees also finalStaff Writer The school’s snack program childhood education to the ized the HOA trail ordinance At the Cedaredge Board of Gene Welch. children of the Surface Creek focuses on healthy eating Cindy Starr with Kauai allowing the town to accept a community. During that time, through discussion and exam- Trustees meeting, emergency Little Sprouts was the only ple. Students are served fresh preparedness coordinator Kris Vacation Rentals spoke to donation of property for use early childhood education fruits and vegetables with the Stewart presented the multi- the trustees on behalf of the as a trail. Additionally, trustees jurisdictional hazard mitiga- Cedaredge Area Chamber of occasional dairy product. available in the area. Located next to the tion plan for the county. This Commerce. The chamber is approved the budget emer“Through the years, Little Sprouts has maintained a Cedaredge Community Unit- plan is pending FEMA approv- ending 2018 with 151 mem- gency reserves and the capital improvement plans for 2019. solid reputation in the com- ed Methodist Church, the al and will be an update to the bers and 10 board members. “We have some new ideas The trustees approved a munity and strives to main- Little Sprouts playground previous 2008 guidelines. we’re tossing around for the mill levy, which is required to The county is five years tain the level of excellence was recently updated with an expected by the community,” impact resistant poured sur- past due for the update. “This new year to do for our busi- be set based on an assessed said Lora Ely, preschool direc- face and with new equipment plan, a guiding document, nesses, too,” she said. Their valuation of taxable propertor. “Our staff love their work LITTLE SPROUTS TO C2 identifies hazards in the com- annual meeting will be Jan. ty. The assessed value has munity and gives guidance 18 at the Grand Mesa Arts decreased from last year, though the mill levy will stay for reducing exposure and and Event Center. Next, the trustees tack- the same at 7.980 mills. increasing protection,” said led numerous resolutions The trustees approved and Stewart. Drought, wildfire, rock and ordinances. First they appropriated the 2019 budget, fall, severe winter weather approved the memorandum too. “If we don’t appropriate, and flooding from dam failure of understanding between we can’t spend it,” said Mayor are primary hazard concerns ENGAGE/Technical College Pro-Tem Ray Hanson to clarifor Cedaredge. Later during of the Rockies and the town fy several trustees’ confusion. To conclude the meeting, the meeting trustees passed a regarding use of the commercial kitchen in Cedaredge. several trustees acknowlresolution to adopt the plan. The Cedaredge Planning The commercial kitchen rates edged how town administraand Zoning Commission is were changed to encourage tor Greg Brinck was picked as beginning a discussion on tiny regular use, meaning use of Employee of the Year at the holiday party last week. “I’m homes. The discussion will be more than twice a month. For example, kitchen use is proud of this group for stickcontinued in January. Eric Hansen, operations set (private daily rate) at $110 ing through a tough year,” director for the Cedaredge a visit, but under regular use said Hanson. Golf Course, is planning to add three more tournaments next year. Last year’s tournaments raised $60,000. “We’re at a good start for Photo submitted Each December Little Sprouts Community Preschool hosts getting people committed to a “Cookie Walk” as one of its annual fundraisers. Commu- our tournaments next year,” nity members come, browse and purchase cookies and other he said. The course is also creating baked goods. A silent auction featured items such as gift certiﬁcates, pictures, and even passes for the Durango/Silverton another seasonal pass holder Narrow Gauge Railroad. Santa was also in attendance, hear- option to target working people and those who prefer to ing wishes from kids as he enjoyed cookies. play in the afternoon. Next year a $1 surcharge will be added to public rates to establish a capital improvement fund. The trustees approved the 2019 fees and surcharges later in the meeting. Public works co-director Jerry Young presented a graph of water conservation, showing 2011-2017 averages with 2012 and 2018 highlighted. Based on this graph, it showed how in April and May citizens used a lot of water, similar to what they did in 2012. Once the rates spiked, water use dropped significantly below average. “I was really worried we were heading to be similar to Photo submitted 2012 in water consumption, which was a hot, dry year,” he said. The Surface Creek Community Services Food Bank served Also, more snowplowing 265 total food boxes for this year’s annual Christmas food hours are logged this winter Photo submitted than all of last winter, which boxes. Several volunteers helped prepare food on Friday, Amanda Barks, Susan Van Scoyk, Lora Ely and Jessie Roeling is a good sign. “This is the Dec. 14 (pictured) and distribute Saturday, Dec. 15. get a word in with Santa. only town I’ve lived in where

BY EMY LYNN ROQUE CISNEROS Staff Writer

Christmas around the world

$2,400 raised for Little Sprouts

Cedaredge trustees approve ordinances before year’s end

Santa’s helpers

C2 Wednesday, December 26, 2018

SURFACE CREEK NEWS

Delta County Independent

Katie Greenwood selected for national ag teacher program

Photo submitted

Making Christmas ornaments

Fiber artist Jane Dupree (left, in black) teaches young and old the skill of making lighted Christmas ﬁber sculptured ornaments Saturday, Dec. 15, at the Grand Mesa Arts and Events Center in Cedaredge. Alpine Bank sponsored two ornament-making events open to the children of the community.

Ring in the New Year with a GREAT DINNER and LIVE MUSIC ��

�� Monday, December 31 ��

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Katie Greenwood, agriculture teacher at Cedaredge High School, is one of 21 individuals nationwide who was selected to participate in the 2018 XLR8 Institute — a professional development program which began at the National Association of Agricultural Educators’ annual convention in San Antonio, Texas, Nov. 28-Dec. 1. The XLR8 program was developed by NAAE as a means to help agriculture teachers in their seventh to fifteenth years of teaching address common issues that lead to them leaving the profession, such as burnout, work/life balance, and stagnant professional growth. The program’s goal is to accelerate the selected teachers’ careers through year-long professional development. Selected participants engaged in rigorous professional development sessions at the NAAE convention. Topics that were addressed included setting priorities, worklife balance, and moving careers and agriculture programs forward over the next several years. This year’s cohort will continue their experience throughout the upcoming year with virtual learning experiences, online collaboration through the

NAAE professional learning community, Communities of Practice, and by connecting through a variety of social media tools. The goal is not only to retain XLR8 participants in the teaching profession, but to give them the tools to help other mid-career teachers. The XLR8 program is sponsored by CSX and Herman and Bobbie Wilson as a special project of the National FFA Foundation. The National Association of Agricultural

Educators (NAAE) is the professional organization in the United States for agricultural educators. It provides its nearly 8,000 members with professional networking and development opportunities, professional liability coverage, and extensive awards and recognition programs. The mission of NAAE is “professionals providing agricultural education for the global community through visionary leadership, advocacy and service.” The NAAE headquarters are in Lexington, Ky.

Photo submitted

Katie Greenwood, Cedaredge High School agriculture teacher, is pictured with Nick Nelson, NAAE president. Greenwood is one of 21 individuals nationwide selected to participate in a professional development program sponsored by CSX and Herman and Bobbie Wilson.

Azalee Hoffbauer is Rotary Student of the Month Azalee Hoffbauer was honored on Dec. 11 as the Cedaredge Rotary Club’s student of the month. Hoffbauer is a senior at Cedaredge High School (CHS). Her English teacher Russell Coleman praised Azalee as a student who is always prepared and eager to learn. He identified her as one of CHS’s most promising seniors. Her school activities include vice president of the Delta School District Advisory Council, Gay-Straight Alliance, and Organ Donation Club. Azalee also earned second place in junior varsity tennis and she serves as manager of

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the CHS marching band. She enjoys working with LGBTQ youth. Her post-high school goals are to attend Regis University in Denver to pursue a bachelor of

science degree in biology then apply to dental school. She would like to return to Cedaredge and open a dental practice to provide affordable care for residents.

Photo by Gloria Good

Cedaredge Rotary Club honored Azalee Hoffbauer (center) as December Student of the Month. Pictured with Azalee are her English teacher, Russell Coleman, on the left and Joe Agne, Rotary Club president on the right.

Little Sprouts FROM PAGE C1 in an enclosed area to “challenge a child’s gross motor skills.” As a private preschool, Little Sprouts relies on help from the citizens through fundraisers and volunteering (i.e. carpenting, painting). And, word of mouth helps. “The community can always support the preschool through letting people know we have a private preschool in our

community, which has a quality rating of a level 4 (5 being the highest score) through the state rating system, Colorado Shines,” said Ely. Donations are always appreciated and can be mailed to Little Sprouts Community Preschool, PO Box 369, Cedaredge, CO 81413. Those interested in the school, its programs or volunteering are invited to set up a visit by calling 970-856-4648.

Photo by Emy Lynn Roque Cisneros

Making merry

CHS and CMS held their annual Christmas band and choir concerts on Dec. 11 and 12. Turnout was better than expected, with extra chairs having to be set up to accommodate the large audience. The students work since the beginning of school on the pieces they perform at the end of each semester. Director Robert Wolcott commented that the two songs featured by the CHS concert band, “Russian Christmas Music” and “Polar Express,” were the hardest he’s ever directed but the students did a remarkable job.

SURFACE CREEK NEWS

Delta County Independent

Wednesday, December 26, 2018

National Honor Society inducts 18 new members BY EMY LYNN ROQUE CISNEROS mum 3.30 GPA and show prepare them for post Staff Writer

Cedaredge High School inducted 18 new members into its National Honor Society Tuesday, Dec. 18. The event featured lighting candles for the four pillars of NHS and handing new inductees their certificates. This year’s president is actually a new inductee, who would have qualified for NHS last year if not for a four semester rule. To qualify for NHS a student must have attended CHS for four semesters, have a mini-

excellence in scholarship, service, leadership and character — the four pillars of NHS. The CHS NHS group began in 1959 with four members. Now 32 total students make up the group, with 18 being new inductees. NHS advisor Emily Cannell, also math teacher and assistant track coach, said NHS “gives a lot of students in various areas a way to come together.” Being a member of NHS means students have extra resources to

high school. Depending on their school’s emphasis, NHS members can have access to college admission and financial aid planning options, service projects and leadership development. At CHS the NHS group focuses on community service. For example, groups of students are assigned an elderly home in town and when it snows they’re in charge of shoveling snow. During Applefest, the students also help the Cedaredge library unload and load books.

Photo by Emy Lynn Roque Cisneros

Storytime with Santa

Six little ones enjoyed storytime with Santa at the Cedaredge Library Dec. 13. After singing, Santa read three Christmas-themed stories. Librarian Mai-Emilie Swiegart enthusiastically acted out parts to the stories with help from her friends mouse and bear. “We love storytime with Santa,” said Sweigart to the children. Storytime is for babies, tots and preschoolers every Thursday at 10:30. They sing songs, make crafts and enjoy stories each week.

Photo by Emy Lynn Roque Cisneros

Advisor Emily Cannell said National Honor Society is important because it brings students together. “These students are leaders in differing activities like sports and FFA but they unite with NHS,” she said at the NHS inductee ceremony Dec. 18.

Photo submitted

Honoring Ray Petersen’s memory

On Wednesday, Dec. 19, Cedaredge Women’s Literary Club presented, “The Story of Christmas,” illustrated by Pamela Dalton, to the Cedaredge Library in honor of Ray Petersen. Petersen was a longtime supporter of the library, Surface Creek Food Bank, Chapel of the Cross, and Pioneer Town. He promoted literacy and had a deep passion for children and his faith. Pictured are Sam Nowell, Lynnette Reed, Rhoda Ziegler, Ginny Warner and Terry Johns.

Cedaredge author Carolyn White publishes second book Cedaredge author Carolyn White recently published her second book, “Trucks are for Girls.” Book one, “Bricks Underneath a Hoop Skirt,” was about the years White spent as a licensed guide, packer, and cook, living in the Idaho wilderness without electricity, telephone, or daily mail service. It sold out three times on Amazon and earned five stars. Book two picks up after

she returned to civilization, and tells about the challenges of readjustment to modern things. All stories are funny, down-to-earth, and family friendly. The books are available on Amazon, Barnes & Noble, the Life Rich book store, and www. unleashedpublishingco. com. Locally they can be purchased at Cedaredge Pharmacy, 215 W. Main Street, where White works part-time as a

pharmacy technician. For the past 15 years, White focused on Colorado magazine writing as a hobby. White said the book series has taken over, and now she and her editor are planning a series of 10, with outdoor-related stories ranging from Colorado to Idaho to Ohio to Hawaii.

CUMC collects coats, scholarship funds From now through Epiphany Sunday, Jan. 6, Cedaredge United Methodist Church is collecting new and lightly used coats for children, youth and adults. The coats will be blessed Jan. 6 then distributed to people in the greater Cedaredge community. The church is also seeking cash donations for scholarships for children

attending Little Sprouts Preschool. Like the coat donations, the church will accept scholarship funds through Jan. 6. Coats and scholarship donations of any dollar amount can be brought to the church office any weekday morning, or to the United Methodist Thrift Store on Main Street in Cedaredge when the store is open.

Real trees needed for bonfire, sing-along

All Saints Lutheran in Cory celebrates the 12th Night of Christmas and closes down the Christmastide season with a huge bonfire of real, undecorated and un-fireproofed Christmas trees! This annual event will be held on Sunday, Jan. 6, at 3 p.m. Along with the sing-a-long of carols, enjoy a cookie or two plus hot cocoa! Dress warm and this event is open to the public.

But — the church needs a supply of real trees. You can bring your trees the night of the bonfire or bring your trees anytime to the field between the church and the highway. Seats can be provided for those who would like to sit down while they sing. All Saints Lutheran is located on Hwy 65, one mile north of the Cory General Store. For more information, call the church at 835-3667.

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

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C4 Wednesday, December 26, 2018

SPORTS

SPORTS December 26, 2018

Delta County Independent

www.deltacountyindependent.com

Cedaredge runs past young Paonia cagers BY WAYNE CRICK DCI Sports Editor

This year’s First Colorado National Bank basketball tournament kicked off with Cedaredge and Paonia playing the first game Friday afternoon in Delta. This game featured two teams with opposite records. Cedaredge, with its win on Friday night, 53-15, is 5-1 in the new season while Paonia is even at 3-3 after the loss. It’s been some time since a Paonia basketball team, under the guidance of Scott Rienks, has had the type of quarter

against the Bruins on Friday. Cedaredge’s defense was superb notching a shutout in the opening quarter while the Bruins’ offense was busy scoring 13 points. Four Bruins generated the points with Courtney Freeman scoring five of her 11 points in the first period. An 18-6 run in the second stanza was powered by Kammie Henderson’s 6 points with the Eagles’ Carly Horn scoring four of Paonia’s six counters. Henderson scored another six points in the third quarter and finished the game as the

leading scorer with 14 points. Freeman also had double-digit numbers with 11 points. Horn’s six points were the most scored by a Paonia player in the game. Cedaredge outscored the Eagles 36-11 in the middle quarters to help provide the big win. Cedaredge faced Delta for the tournament title on Saturday, Dec. 22. Those results will appear in the Jan. 2 issue along with consolation game results from the girls and boys divisions in the FCNB tournament. Photo by Wayne Crick

Cedaredge’s Hannah Gardner (34) shoots over Paonia’s Lyla Hayutin-Baril’s defense in round one of the girls First Colorado National Bank tournament in Delta Dec. 21. Cedaredge had too much experience for the young Eagles and went on to score a 53-15 decision. The Bruins’ win placed them in the title game Dec. 22.

Paonia boys hang on to beat Bruins, 58-48 BY WAYNE CRICK DCI Sports Editor

First-round play in the First Colorado National Bank Basketball Tournament in Delta was a win for Paonia’s Eagles, 58-48. Their opponents, Cedaredge, did not go quietly in the late stages of the contest. A 21-7 Bruins’ spurt in the fourth quarter was just too late and too little as time ran out on Cedaredge. Paonia took a fivepoint lead, 14-9, to the second quarter and duplicated the 14-point effort in the second quarter for Photo by Wayne Crick a 28-19 halftime lead. Cedaredge’s Jared Reynolds got off his shot in this photo but was met with some resistance when Paonia’s Elan Maulhardt was unable to stop his momentum and was whistled for a foul. Eagles’ teammate David Lozano (11) looks on as the action unfolded in the ﬁrst round of the annual First Colorado National Bank tournament in Delta. Paonia won the game 58-48.

The Eagles connected on five three-point shots in the third quarter and bolted to a 23-8 run that extended their lead to 5127 with one period left to play. David Lozano and Soul Connolly had two treys apiece in the run with Lozano scoring 10 points and Connolly eoght in the frame. Cedaredge had a nearly equal run in the fourth quarter with Coby Rupp scoring 12 of his team-high 18 points in the fourth quarter to lead the Bruins on a 21-7 run closing the final margin of victory for Paonia to 10

points, 58-48. Connolly shared the games’ top point-production honor with Cedaredge’s Rupp with an 18point night of his own. Lozano added 17 points for the winners giving the Eagles two players in double figures for the contest. Paonia met host Delta in the FCNB title game on Saturday, Dec. 22. Results of the final day of the tournament will appear in the DCI’s Jan. 2 issue. Cedaredge faced Hotchkiss for consolation honors earlier on Saturday.

Delta girls rally for 67-34 first round win BY WAYNE CRICK DCI Sports Editor

The first game of the First Colorado National Bank basketball tournament for the Hotchkiss and Delta girls started slowly. The Panthers were 0-for-7 from the free throw line but owned a 6-4 lead after one quarter of action. Delta’s offense picked up its pace in the second quarter to outscore the Bulldogs 20-7 for a 26-11 lead at the break. Sara Geddes’ 10 points in the quarter was enough of a spark to keep Delta’s

offense in control the rest of the way. Geddes was 4for-6 at the foul line with the Panthers cashing in on 7 of 10 free throws in the period. Geddes scored another six points in the third quarter and finished with 16 points to lead both teams in the scoring race. Delta scored 19 and 22 points in the third and fourth quarters, respectively with Keely Porter and Missa Webb leading the way in the fourth quarter with six and seven points. Webb finished with 12 points and Por-

ter had nine for the winners. Erika Kuta scored all eight of her points in the second half of play. Hotchkiss’ Carson Collins worked the middle of the offense for 10 points to lead the Bulldogs in scoring. Shay Glaser finished with seven counters. Delta and Cedaredge were in the tournament’s title game on Saturday, Dec. 22. Details of the title game, and the consolation contest between Paonia and Hotchkiss, Photo by Wayne Crick can be found in the Jan. Delta junior Hunter Hughes was ambushed by Hotchkiss’ Jacob Palecki. Pal2 edition of the DCI. ecki blocked Hunter’s shot on the play to spark the Bulldogs’ defense. After a slow start, Delta got its offense rolling and recorded an 81-53 win in ﬁrstround action of the First Colorado National Bank tournament.

Delta boys shake off Bulldogs, win 81-53 BY WAYNE CRICK DCI Sports Editor

Photo by Wayne Crick

Hotchkiss guard Elsie Vazquez (with the ball) found herself trapped on the baseline by an aggressive Delta defense in a ﬁrst-round game of the FCNB basketball tournament played in Delta Dec. 21-22. Delta turned a slow start into a convincing win, 67-34. Applying the trap for Delta were Keely Porter (23) and Sara Geddes.

The first time Delta and Hotchkiss faced each other this season was in a scrimmage session earlier in the year. The Panthers enjoyed a good outing while the Bulldogs struggled to find its offense and consistency on defense. In the first round game between the two teams at this year’s First Colorado National Bank tournament the Bulldogs had no memory of that first encounter and played evenly with the upper division Panthers for the first eight minutes. Even though the Panthers won the game

81-53, Hotchkiss played with a spirited, never-die attitude to the end. Delta got six points from Andrew Baier in the first quarter and Alexis Fausto added five in Delta’s 18-12 run. Delta’s Joe Bules and Hotchkiss’ Jacob Stucker took over the game’s offensive spotlight for their respective teams with eight and seven points in a 21-15 second quarter run for Delta. The Panthers scored 21 points in each of the third and fourth quarters to post their final tally of 81 points. Hotchkiss scored 11 and 15 points in the same time span

for its final score of 53 points. Stucker’s 16 points led Hotchkiss’ offense with Evan Mattison next high with eight points. Delta got 17 points from Fausto and Bules, and Baier netted 10 points to give the Panthers three players with double digit scoring. The Panthers and Eagles played for the boys division FCNB tournament title on Saturday, Dec. 22. Results of the title game and consolation finals for the two-day tournament are scheduled to appear in the Jan. 2 issue of the DCI.

SPORTS

Delta County Independent

Wednesday, December 26, 2018

Panthers split road games BY WAYNE CRICK DCI Sports Editor

Early-season play for Delta High School’s basketball teams involved travel over the mountains two of three weekends. The Panthers were in tournament play at Faith Christian in Denver three weeks ago and played in Alamosa the following Friday and in Centauri on Saturday. Delta’s girls had a win and their first loss of the season this past week with a 46-45 squeakerwin against Alamosa on Friday and a 53-43 loss against Centauri on Saturday. The Panther boys continued their slow start to the season with a 53-44 loss to Alamosa and a solid win, 54-40, in Centauri. Delta Girls Delta 46, Alamosa 45 It was a nailbiter with the Mean Moose on Friday. The outlook was grim early on with Alamosa easing to an 11-5 first-quarter lead. Sara Geddes scored seven of the 11 Delta points in the second quarter to an eight-point Alamosa effort making the halftime score 19-16 in favor of the Mean Moose. Delta’s third quarter was a 14-7 run to over-

haul Alamosa 30-26 heading to the final stanza. Geddes recorded her second, seven-point quarter in the fourth frame keeping the Panthers close in a 19-16 Mean Moose run that produced a 46-45 win for Delta. Geddes finished the game with 22 points to lead all scorers in the game. Alamosa’s Emily Lavier and Sylvie Caton had 12 points each for the Mean Moose. Centauri 53, Delta 43 A 22-point fourth quarter spelled defeat for the Delta Panthers for the first time this season. The Panthers battled from behind for three quarters before taking a 32-31 lead to the fourth quarter. Centauri started with an 11-6 first quarter and was leading 24-21 at halftime. Thanks to freshman Erika Kuta’s offensive awakening in the middle quarters, Delta moved in front with the help of Kuta’s eight points in the second quarter and another five points in the third. There was a flurry of fouls in the fourth quarter, which sent Falcon shooters to the foul line for 14 shots where they converted 10 for impor-

tant points. Overall, Centauri was 19 of 28 in charity tosses. Delta was whistled for 25 fouls with Kuta fouling out in the fourth quarter with a team-high 17 points. Three other players finished with four fouls. Centauri stole the game on a 22-11 run in the ill-fated fourth quarter to win by 10. Falcon sophomore Courtney Hamilton scored 10 of her 21 points in the fourth quarter and sophomore Brenna McDaniel was 5-for-5 from the foul line to go with her field goal. Senior Melissa Wilson had 11 for the Mean Moose. Delta’s Keely Porter finished with 12 points to join Kuta in double figures. The loss dropped Delta to a 4-1 record for the season. Delta Boys Alamosa 53, Delta 44 A few missed shots and some ill-timed turnovers spelled defeat in Alamosa Dec. 14. Information for this game was not available. Delta 54, Centauri 40 Though the start to this game wasn’t, scorewise, intimidating, the 13-6 advantage for Delta proved to be a factor lead-

Delta swims in big Montrose meet BY WAYNE CRICK DCI Sports Editor

Delta County’s swim team competed at Montrose last Friday and Saturday. There were 10 teams at the competition and Delta finished eighth with 71 points. Glenwood Springs won the team title with 525 points. The Panthers did not have a competitor in the one-meter diving event with Kenley Kohls of Fruita Monument winning the event with 318.9 points. In the 50 freestyle race Aspen’s Davy Brown had a 25.32 to finish first. Delta swimmers Hannah Sterns (31.16), Kiarrah Schotten (32.05), Adair Ela (33.98), Karlie Egging (34.66), Autumn Eddy (37.35) and Bailey Miller (39.80) also competed in the event. Grand Junction won the 100 freestyle race with a time of 55.97. Del-

ta’s competitors included Sterns (1.11.61), Emma Purvis (1:17.05), Sydni West (1:17.10), Nadia Hill (1:21.24), Adair Ela (1:30.73) and Autumn Eddy (1:34.54). Delta did not have a swimmer in the 100 fly event. Aspen’s Brown won the 100 backstroke in a time of 1:01.08. Delta’s entrants in the event included Hailie Ruble (1:23.14), Schotten (1:30.08) and Egging (1:32.59). Grand Junction won the 100 breaststroke (1:06.27) with Abby Williams posting Delta’s top time (1:25.55) followed by Alaiha Hoffbauer (1:42.82) and Madalyn Sandridge (1:55.62). In the 200 freestyle, Grand Junction had the best time (2:01.19). West’s 2:55.42 was Delta’s top time followed by Hill (2:58.54) and Han-

nah Philman (3:00.98). The Panthers did not have a swimmer in the 200 individual medley event. Delta’s Kalinn Komives competed in the 500 freestyle (8:15.03) with Grand Junction’s Delaney Kidd posting the winning time (5:29.61). Aspen won the 200 freestyle relay (1:45.81) and Delta had three teams in the competition. The top team posted a time of 2:14.01 followed by times of 2:26.79 and 2:45.48. The Skiers also won the 200 medley relay (1:54.34) with Delta’s two teams posting times of 2:26.47 and 2:50.15. Glenwood Springs won the 400 freestyle relay (3:59.42) and Delta’s team had a time of 5:07.20 in a preliminary round and a time of 5:09.14 in the final round.

Bulldogs gnaw way past Delta on the mat BY WAYNE CRICK DCI Sports Editor

Hotchkiss High School’s visit to Delta last Thursday, Dec. 20, was a battle of attrition. Delta was the winner of forfeits with four of six no-contests going to the Panthers. In the contests waged on the mat, Hotchkiss walked away with points earned by competition by winning five of the seven matches featuring actual opponents, by pin, to slip past the Panthers by a 42-36 score.

Thursday’s dual competition began at 126 with Delta’s Ben Koch winning by forfeit. Hotchkiss’ Presley Pene won by fall over Andrew Toole at 132; Sergio Campos, wrestling his first match of the season for the Bulldogs, was a winner by fall over Colby Wilson at 138; Hotchkiss’ Traycer Hall won by fall over Delta’s Timothy Horn at 145 and JD Miller defeated Delta’s Royce Barrios by fall at 152. Delta’s Jeffery Griffith won by fall at 160; Aiden Barrios was a forfeit win-

ner at 170; there was a double forfeit at 182; Gauge Lockhart won at 195 with a fall over Teagan Sommer; Eli Miramontes of Delta won by forfeit at 220 and Hotchkiss’ Christian Matus was a forfeit winner at 285. Hotchkiss won two of the next three lower weight matches, including Anthony Scanlon’s win by fall over Ben McCash at 106 and Landen Mayberry’s forfeit win at 113. Nicole Koch earned the dual’s final points with a forfeit win at 120.

ing to the Panthers’ 14point win. Jon Robinson’s five points, and Kyle Mock’s 4-4 free throw performance in the opening frame, helped fuel enough offense to generate momentum in the game’s first three quarters and give the Panthers 43-24 lead going to the final period. Five Delta players shared in the 16-point effort in the second quarter helping the Panthers forge a 29-11 halftime lead. Ames’ seven points in

Photo by Wayne Crick

Teams from Cedaredge and Paonia played Friday’s opening round games in the girls and boys divisions with Delta’s girls facing Hotchkiss and the Panther boys testing the Bulldogs in the late games. Winners from the two girls games on Friday played in the title game in the afternoon on Saturday and the losers played a consolation game earlier in the day. The same routine was followed for the boys with the consolation and title games played Saturday afternoon.

Eagles learn from loss to 3A Coal Ridge BY TAMIE MECK DCI Sports Writer

Friday night’s 45-point loss to Coal Ridge may have been painful, but it provided some good lessons for the Paonia Eagles. They knew the game would test their limits, and kept a positive attitude through the last buzzer. At 9-0, Coal Ridge leads the 3A Western Slope League and is ranked third in state. Knowing they were in for a battle, head coach Tim Esgar told his team to go out and play their game. “They’re tough on transition,” said Esgar of the Titans. “They move that ball up and down the court.” Every time Paonia didn’t have two guys in back, they took advantage of it and scored. “They’re a solid team.” Coal Ridge’s loaded roster includes Kevin DiMarco, a 6-8 senior who signed with Chadron State. DiMarco scored a game-high 21 points against Paonia. “That big guy, he opens up a lot for them,” said Esgar. With 12 points each, post Elan Malhardt and point guard Soul Connolly were high scorers for Paonia. “I don’t think we played as well as we could have, but I don’t think we gave up, and that’s important,” said Connolly. Forced outside by the Titans defense, Connolly, Jai Petmezas, Landon Thlivreis and David Lozano each scored on a three-pointer. “I think we had some good plays, at times, especially when we were slowed down and focused more,” said Maulhardt. “We have a tendency to get out of control a little bit.” Late in the game Paonia switched the defense from man to zone, throwing the Titans off for a brief period. “We definitely wanted to test them a little bit with our zone and see where they were at,” said Maulhardt. “We had them off for a little bit.” More importantly, he said, “We learned a lot from it.” They also learned about attitude, said Connolly. “We have to keep a positive attitude throughout the entire game, because if we can’t do that, we’re not going to win any big games” later in the season. “Keep it positive from the bench all the way to our coaches and our

FCNB results in next issue

Hotchkiss’ Sergio Campos, right, works to ﬁnd leverage leading to scoring combinations against Delta’s Colby Wilson last Thursday night in Delta. Campos, wrestling his ﬁrst match this season, looked to be in top form after rehabing from an appendectomy and scored a pinfall to win the match.

the third quarter kept Delta in front during a 14-13 Panther run in the period. The Falcons finally got the upper hand in the fourth quarter on a 16-11 spurt for a 54-40 final score. Robinson finished as Delta’s leading scorer with 11 points followed by Ames with 9 and 8 points each from Alex Fausto and Mock. Delta hosted the third annual First Colorado National Bank Basketball Tournament Dec. 2122.

Early deadlines at the DCI caused some unusual timing for the annual First Colorado National Bank basketball results. Results from Friday night’s (Dec. 21) games are in today’s paper while Saturday’s championship rounds will appear in the next issue with results and photos.

players,” said Maulhardt. “And if the team is down, Going into the second half we need to bounce back and keep going from there with everybody on board.” On Saturday Lozano hit two three-pointers and scored a season-high 21 points in Paonia’s 59-42 conference win at Vail Mountain. Connolly scored 12, Jose Pantoja added eight, and Logan Green scored seven.

Paonia was 11-for-16 from the foul line. At 2-0, the Eagles are in second place in 2A/1A WSL standings behind De Beque. On Dec. 11 the Eagles lost to another 3A team, Olathe, 38-52. The Pirates return eight seniors this season. Dawson Walraven and Isaac Tafoya each scored 10 points and Eliseo Ruiz scored a team high 18 and shot 5-5 from the foul line.

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C6 Wednesday, December 26, 2018

SPORTS

Delta County Independent

Photo by Tamie Meck

Hotchkiss’ Anthony Scanlon (top) has Delta’s Ben McCash in a predicament during last week’s 106-pound match in Delta. Scanlon won the match by fall and Hotchkiss used a string of four wins (132-152) to out-dual the Panthers Photo by Tamie Meck Delta 160-pounder, Jeffery Grifﬁth, strains to get Hotchkiss’ Ethan Guy in 42-36. There were six forfeits, and a double forfeit, in the match with Delta the right position for points and a potential pin. Grifﬁth eventually put Guy’s winning four of the six. shoulders to the mat for a fall, and one of two pinfalls for the Panthers. Gauge Lockhart had the other pin at 195. Hotchkiss had the most points in actual matches to preserve a 42-36 dual victory in Delta.

Photo by Tamie Meck

Hotchkiss 145-pounder Traycer Hall (top) controls Delta’s Timothy Horn during mat action in Delta Dec. 20. Hall won the match by fall.

Photo by Wayne Crick

Delta junior Sara Geddes puts up a shot over the Bulldogs’ Carson Collins (1) in ﬁrst-round action from the First Colorado National Bank tournament in Delta. The Panthers wore down Hotchkiss for a 67-34 win.

Bruins tune up for Warrior with Meeker BY WAYNE CRICK DCI Sports Editor

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for Cedaredge’s Cameron Quick with Austin Crawford getting the Bruins into the win column on a 4-1 decision at 170. David Lopez (182) and Toby Waddell (195) forfeited their matches with Taj Van der Linde (220) picking up a 7-3 win and heavyweight Derek Sanchez winning by forfeit for a 23-9 deficit heading to the lower weights.

Cedaredge High School’s wrestling team warmed up for the annual Warrior Classic held in Grand Junction with a 40-29 warm-up victory over the visiting Meeker Cowboys on Dec. 13. In all, there were nine forfeits, including the double forfeit at 152. The Bruins and Cowboys opened their night of wrestling at 145 pounds, with AJ Robidoux losing by a technical fall. The double forfeit at 152 left Meeker on top with a 5-0 score. Photo by Wayne Crick The 160-pound Cedaredge’s Dalia Alejandre shoots over the Eagles’ match was a forfeit loss Several area football Lauren Kiefer in FCNB round one action. players earned state recognition of their play in the recent 2018 season. In Class 2A, Delta’s outstanding lineman Aiden Barrios made the Second Team while teammate Caleb Miramontes earned an honorable mention selection as a linebacker. Paonia senior Anthony

Lane Hunsberger started the comeback at 106 with a major decision (10-2) followed by a Lucas Hoerr forfeit win at 113. Meeker won by forfeit at 120 and the Bruins claimed wins at 126 and a Trey Geyer win by fall and two forfeits from Sean Dale (132) and Brian Hoerr (138) to complete the final winning margin of 40-29.

State football honors doled out

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Felice and junior Levi Peterson were Second Team selections in Class 1A while junior teammate Grey Neal was honorable mention. Cedaredge’s representatives for All-State honors included seniors Jared Reynolds and Taj Van der Linde, who were honorable mention selections.

Hotchkiss falls short in hoops BY TAMIE MECK DCI Sports Writer

The Hotchkiss girls played a close game but came up short in their recent 51-46 loss to De Beque. The Dragons opened the first quarter with a 17-8 lead. Hotchkiss outscored De Beque in the second and trailed by a point (3938) at the end of the third period, but were unable

to pull off a win. The Bulldogs are 5-1 overall and in fourth place in the 2A/1A Western Slope League. On the boys side, De Beque beat the Bulldogs, 76-47, to end the week in fourth place in the 2A/1A WSL. Dragons sophomore Brennan Rigsby scored a game-high 25 points and had 10 total rebounds and two steals for the game.

3A Titans too much for Eagles BY TAMIE MECK DCI Sports Writer

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The Paonia girls basketball team is 3-2 following two non-conference losses. The Eagles opened the week on Dec. 11 with a 51-29 loss to Olathe (2-4, 3A Western Slope League), and finished the week on Friday with a 48-25 loss to 3A Coal Ridge. Against the Olathe Pirates, Paige Fister led the Eagles in rebounds

with seven (two offensive, five defensive) and Poppy Lightfoot, who scored a team-high nine points, pulled down six defensive rebounds. On defense, Ceylon Carter had one block and three deflected passes. In their loss to Coal Ridge, Tawny Roberts led the team in steals with six. The Eagles had 29 turnovers and were 3-for10 from the foul line.

Classifieds

December 26, 2018

Real Estate

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BUY • SELL • TRADE

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TOWN OF PAONIA NOTice of part-time police officer position. This position is a 24-30 hour a week position, for a certified Police Officer as required by the POST Standards and Training Act. This is general law enforcement work, responsible for protecting life and property and enforcing laws and ordinances within the Town. Duties include investigations, special detail assignments, conduct traffic enforcement, prepare reports, participate in required training, administrative duties and other special assignments as assigned by superiors. Requirements: Must be POST certified, or POST certifiable, have a valid Colorado driver’s license, be able to pass psychological exam, background checks and pre-employment drug test. Requires a high school diploma or GED. Salary DOQ. Application Procedure: Obtain and complete a Paonia Police Department Application from the Town of Paonia website or in person, at 214 Grand Ave., Paonia, CO 81428. Completed applications must either be dropped off in person or mailed to P.O. Box 460 Paonia, CO 81428 Attn. Chief Neil Ferguson. For more information, Email: nfergusonppd@townofpao nia.com. Applications must be received by January 9th 2019. (2x52)

CLASSIFIEDS WORK! DELTA COUNTY

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INDEPENDENT 401 Meeker St., Delta • 874-4421

Rentals 2 BEDROOM, 1 1/2 BATH, dishwasher, washer/dryer, small carport, 2 sheds, 750 sq. ft. living space, in town of Cedaredge. Immaculate condition, in good neighborhood within walking distance of pharmacy, park, etc. $650/month, same for damage deposit. Guarantee rent will not change over 5 years. No dogs/cats. 8567030, call and leave message. (4x52) 2 BEDROOM, 1 BATH apartment with garage, close to downtown Delta. No smoking, no pets, water included. Available January 1. $600/month and $600 deposit. 970-323-5555. (3x51)

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

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DEER OR ELK HUNTING land leases wanted. No piece too big or small. We pay top dollar. Give me a call lets talk 970-739-0888. (2x52)

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401 Meeker St. | Delta 970-874-4421 www.deltacountyindependent.com

BOLINGER & QUEEN IS now accepting employment applications in Hotchkiss for two full-time positions - one sales position and one delivery/sales position. Applicants must have a valid drivers license (CDL is required for the delivery position) have a basic knowledge of plumbing and irrigation materials and be able to work with a range of customers. Applications can be picked up at 32874 J Rd. in Hotchkiss. Please call 970-872-3371 with any questions. (3x51) ELSEWHERE STUDIOS, an artist residency program in Paonia, is seeking a part time grant writer, January/ February 2019. Contact info@elsewherestudios. org for more information. (2x51) NEW ADDRESS? PLEASE notify the Delta County Independent 10 days prior to moving. PO Box 809, Delta, CO 81416 or 970-8744421. SIGN UP TODAY FOR a subscription to the DCI!

D2 Wednesday, December 26, 2018 Miscellaneous

CLASSIFIEDS

Miscellaneous Colorado Statewide �� Network

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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Public Service WHAT TYPES OF Cottage Foods Can I Produce? Whole eggs, spices, teas, dehydrated produce, nuts, seeds, Honey, jams, jellies, and preserves, fruit butter, candies, certain bake goods If you have any questions, please call: 8742165. Delta County Health Department. (4x51) 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.

Public Service THE KINGS TABLE SOUP Kitchen needs egg cartons. If you have any to give please call 250-6637 and we will pick up.

Full-Color Printing Sloutions

AL-ANON AND ALATEEN: Hope and help for families and friends of alcoholics meets in Delta: Al-Anon and Alateen, Tuesdays at 7:30 pm, St. Luke’s Episcopal Church, 145 W. 5th St., contact Elizabeth 970-874-9832 or Shirley 970-323-5067.

Public Service

THE ABRAHAM CONNECtion homeless shelter, located at 480 Silver St., Delta, offers emergency overnight shelter and food to men, women and families in the Delta area midOctober- April. Call us at 970-773-8290 to make a referral, or for information on how to volunteer or donate. www.Delta AbrahamConnection. org.

ing and get something they can really use after their baby arrives — free diapers. Healthy moms have healthy babies. Enroll in the Baby & Me Tobacco Free program today. Contact the Delta County Health Department at 874-2165 or your local physician.

SUPPORT THE DELTA Library. Give a gently used book in the Downstairs Book Store.

WELCOME RETURNING Veterans, Post 9221 VFW meets at 5:00 p.m. on the 4th Thursday of each month in Cedaredge. To find out how to participate in proCARING FOR CARE- moting patriotism and givers, C4C - support- assisting veterans, contact ing hearts that care. Open Wayne Hamrick, (970) 250to ANY caregiver. Meets 1180. monthly in Delta, 2nd AARP DRIVER SAFETY Tuesday at 11 a.m. - 511 E. Course. Save on insurance, 10th St, Delta. keep up on newer traffic

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WOMEN ONLY AA MEETings, Delta, Saturdays, 11:00 a.m., at St. Luke's Episcopal Church, 5th & Palmer (back door).

401 Meeker St. • Delta

874-4421

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DOMESTIC VIOLENCE Support Group for Adults and Children: Every Wednesday in Delta from 5-7 p.m. there will be a free support group for adults whose lives have been impacted by domestic violence and a separate group for children at the same HOSPITAL VOLUNTEERS time. Please call 970-874- Wanted! Delta County 4941 to sign up. Memorial Hospital needs hospital volunteers. Days WANNA PLAY A ROUND? and hours are flexible. There Golf with a fun group of are currently openings ladies. Two membership in the ER, Oncology, Gift options available. Sign up Shop and some additional at www.cedaredgeladies areas. If you are interested, golf.com. Get to know us please contact Volunteer on Facebook at “cedar Coordinator, Barbara Hall at edgeladiesgolfclub” 250-2105 for an application. ALCOHOLICS ANONY- FREE DIAPERS FOR UP mous meets Thursdays at 7 to one year! Pregnant p.m. Friends of Bill W. Club. women in Delta County can 897 Palmer Street, Delta. now get help to quit smokCO 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. org

We have reliable, quick turnaround on nearly all jobs!

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laws, learn defensive driving techniques. For details and schedule contact John Loring (970) 856-6924 or (970) 424-1778.

INDEPENDENT

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DELTA HAS A BOOKstore in the basement of the library featuring gently used books and magazines. Come check it out! HEALTHY BABIES START with early prenatal care. Delta County Health Department. Offers access to immediate, temporary Medicaid for pregnant women who qualify. 8742165. BOOKS MAKE GREAT stocking stuffers. Find books at great prices in the basement of the Delta Public Library.

Public Service FOSTER GRANDPARENT Program enriches the lives of senior volunteers while improving the education of children with special needs. Volunteers, 55 and older, needed to assist in class rooms tutoring and mentoring children. Low-income volunteers may qualify for a stipend. Teachers in Delta area class rooms request "Grandparents" to come in and work with students who need the extra help to achieve their best. For information on how you can use your talents to help kids call Tanya at 298-9091.

COLORADO QUITLINE IS a free, confidential telephone coaching service for anyone calling from a Colorado area code. With QuitLine, tobacco users can receive free supplies of the nicotine patch as they work with trained coaches who create a personalized quit YOU CAN QUIT. WE CAN plan just for them. To conhelp. Colorado Tobacco tact the QuitLine, call 1-800Quitline offers free, confi- QUIT-NOW (1-800-784-8669) dential assistance. Call 1- or visit www.coquitline.org. 800-QUIT-NOW. THE DELTA COUNTY THE AMERICAN LEGION Democratic Party invites Post 97 Paonia is seeking you to visit their Facebook the names and addresses of page for announcements, all persons currently serv- information and intelligent ing on active duty in the discussion of issues. You military from the North Fork are not alone! Contact Valley in order to contact www.facebook.com/pages/ them and show our sup- CO-Delta-County-Democrat port. Send addresses to s/109082339170167. American Legion Post 97, PO Box 277, Paonia, CO ALZHEIMER'S ASSOCiation Caregivers' Support 81428 or call 527-6252. Group, Delta. Hospice and PARENTS FREE! INFORM- Palliative Care of Western ation and referrals to Colorado, Grand Mesa licensed child care provid- Oncology Center, 1501 E. ers, call Bright Futures Child 3rd Street, Tuesdays at 2 Care Resource and Referral, p.m. 1-877-728-5613. IF YOU THINK YOU SUPPORT THE DELTA have a drinking problem... Public Library. Give a gently Alcoholics Anonymous can used book in the Downstairs help. There are weekly AA Book Store. meetings throughout the North Fork area and beyond. PARENTS — FREE For meeting times and locainformation and referrals tions call AA at 970-245-9649 for licensed child care pro- or 888-333-9649. Or go to viders. Call Bright Futures the website www.aa-westChild Care Resource & erncolorado.org. Alcoholics Referral at 877-728-5613. Anonymous can help! THINK YOU'RE PREGnant? Abused? Need help? The Pregnancy Resource Center in Delta offers free service, support and advice to all teenagers and women in crisis pregnancy situations. For Christian help, anytime, call 874-5733.

401 Meeker St. • Delta 970-874-4421 www.deltacountyindependent.com

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PUBLIC NOTICES

Delta County Independent

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PUBLIC NOTICES ��

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PUBLIC NOTICES

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D6 Wednesday, December 26, 2018

CHURCH

Delta County Independent

Colorado Parks and Wildlife modifies fees, expands options Colorado Parks and Wildlife will modify its state parks entrance fees beginning Jan. 1, 2019, as a result of the passage of Senate Bill 18-143 in May. This is the first increase to park entry fees since 2010. Based on visitor feedback, CPW will also begin offering a hangtag park pass option that will be tied to an individual instead of a vehicle, allowing an individual to use the hangtag when he or she is present in any vehicle of their choice. The revised fee structure approved by the Parks and Wildlife Commission allows the agency to address increased operating costs, provide adequate staffing, and fulfill property maintenance needs to continue provid-

ing quality programs and services while managing an increasing number of park users. Ten key goals have been identified for the agency as a result of this increased funding. “The additional fees will serve to enhance all aspects of the visitor experience in Colorado’s 41 state parks,” said Margaret Taylor, CPW assistant director for capital, parks and trails. “We are committed to providing a fun, safe and rewarding experience for every visitor. Through funding larger capital projects to smaller on-the-ground programs, these dollars help us better serve both the public and our resources.” Effective Jan. 1, 2019, the park entrance fee

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schedule will adjust to the following: Daily vehicle pass — $8 to $9. At Cherry Creek, Chatfield, and Boyd Lake State Recreation Areas, and Eldorado Canyon State Parks each daily vehicle pass is $9. Individual daily pass — $4. Annual affixed vehicle pass — $80. Annual affixed multiple vehicle pass — $40 per vehicle. Annual affixed vehicle replacement pass — $5. Aspen Leaf annual pass (ages 64+) — $35 per vehicle. State parks annual hang tag pass — $120. State parks annual hang tag passes are issued to individuals, not vehicles. Only one vehicle at a time

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can use an annual hang tag pass. State parks annual hang tag replacement pass — $60. Dog off-leash daily pass — $3. Dog off-leash annual pass — $25. State Parks Annual Hang Tag Replacement Pass $60 The price of the annual Columbine annual pass and Centennial annual pass will remain $14 per pass, and commercial daily pass costs also remain unchanged in 2019. “We’re very happy that in 2019 we can address the request from our visitors for a hangtag pass. This is a great option for multi-car families or those

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who use different vehicles for different activities,” said Taylor. “We’ve also added 13 parks to our individual daily pass, or “walk-in” pass, program (including Crawford and Sweitzer Lake) to help us engage more of our visitors into funding and conservation efforts.” “Individual daily passes are a great option for a visitor who may be entering one of our recreation sites without the use of a motorized vehicle,” explained Rob White, park manager at Arkansas Headwaters Recreation Area (AHRA). “For half the cost of a daily park pass for vehicles, people that bike, hike, horseback ride or boat into one of our sites can use our facilities, meet

friends for a picnic, and enjoy the river and the spectacular scenery found within the AHRA. Annual pass holders will also benefit from the additional product panel now printed as part of their annual pass. This panel will serve as their individual daily pass allowing someone to quickly show proof of a required park pass when needed.” Since 2010, state parks have not received funding from state general tax dollars except occasional small amounts (less than one percent of the budget) for special projects, meaning CPW relies on park fees to make needed improvements, hire staff and begin planning for Colorado’s next state park.

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Delta County Independent

Wednesday, December 26, 2018

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D8 Wednesday, December 26, 2018

BACK PAGE

Delta County Independent

B A C K P A G E

BY KAYLEE DUNHAM Contributing Writer

ragedy can come at any time to anyone but it is how you deal with that tragedy that truly defines you. Kevin Davis had been suffering with an undiagnosed illness for seven years until around 2015, when doctors determined Kevin had Parkinson’s, a disease that prohibited him from working. For 35 years Kevin was a tool/die grinder, making parts for Boeing, McDonnell Douglas, Ford, Harley Davidson, NASA, Sierra Bullets, and the military. During that time, he was also an aircraft mechanic. With that background and a love for being creative Kevin began a journey that would lead him to his new passion. One winter, before Kevin’s surgery, his wife Cindy saw a cute family of wooden snowmen online and asked if Kevin could make her some. “I said I’d give it a shot. So I made her a set of them from the little bitty guy up to the daddy one. There was a chunk (of wood) left over about 4-6 inches in diameter and about 6 inches tall. I thought, ‘I’d

Overcoming Parkinson’s Photo by Pat Sunderland

An assortment of Kevin Davis’s Woodie Buddies hang out at the City of Delta’s annual Christmas Craft Fair. hate to waste this, let’s try something.’ So, I started adding legs and arms and eyes and a nose,” said Kevin. After the success of his first Woodie Buddy, Kevin was excited to see what he could come up with next. Kevin’s ideas start now in a spare bedroom in his home. Kevin dreams up his characters based on memorable traits from people he has met. “I was a machinist and I worked a lot with surface grinders, mills, lathes, and a lot of my designs are based off of my experiences. I’ve worked with welders, miners, a lot of different characters in real life, and a lot of times, that’s how I come up with my characters.” He then takes to the drawing board, creating a cartoon image that he hopes to duplicate in his workshop. His workshop is located in his garage, where he has a bin filled with different size elm logs. “I tried using globe willow, aspen, and they just cracked, right up the face. It couldn’t have been in the back or up the side it had to be right up

Photo by Kaylee Dunham

This is one of Kevin’s more comical Woodie Buddies. “This is one of my favorites. He’s just a young kid. He’s got a muscle shirt on and he just sprayed his eye,” Kevin said.

Photo by Kaylee Dunham

The beginning stages of Kevin’s new Woodie Buddy. When it is done it will be a mechanic complete with a creeper for getting under a vehicle.

Photo by Kaylee Dunham

Kevin has made many characters. So far, his business is just by word of mouth but it has got quite a bit of attention. He has sold his Woodie Buddies to people in Colorado, Wyoming, and Missouri. Sometimes people ask Kevin to make them a special design and he always says he’ll give it his best shot. the front, so I found out that elm works the best for me,” Kevin explained. Each log will potentially become the body for one of Kevin’s Woodie Buddies. When choosing a log out of his bin, Kevin looks for the logs with bark falling off. This way he knows that they aren’t as green. As they dry, they have more of a potential to crack. Even being able to create the cartoon image is an incredible feat for Kevin. Kevin said, “I’ve been doing drawings ever since I could hold a pencil.” But for a long time, even the simple task of eating or drinking was hard for Kevin. “Before we knew Kevin had Parkinson’s, he had terrible tremors in his hands,” Cindy said. Kevin added, “For the longest time I couldn’t draw, I just couldn’t draw. I had to give it up. My hands would shake so bad.” For a while, walking was even difficult, so he was glad when he was finally able to get back into drawing. “The Lord gave me a second chance with meeting a neurologist and neurosurgeon that offer a life-changing surgery for those suffering with this debilitating disease. One year ago I had deep brain stimulation surgery that has given me some normalcy in my life. Once again, I can draw and carve. I can even sign my name! The tremors are more controlled and my hands are steadier,” Kevin said. Not only did Parkinson’s affect Kevin’s stability, it also affected his voice. “He was almost to a whisper after his surgery,” Cindy said. He began singing to strengthen his vocal cords. As he sings, Kevin begins to sketch his character on the the log he has chosen. He draws out the pants, shirts and/or overalls. After he knows where he wants everything, he is able to start the hours of whittling the ears, eyes and nose from scraps of wood. No materials are wasted in this shop. In the body, he drills holes with a drill press. Body parts

are put into place with dowels and if necessary wood glue. There are no nails used at all in his process. On occasion Kevin is able to take the knot out of a log and make it into a mouth. He is very creative and so detail oriented that he whittles out bullets for the guns he’s made and light bulbs for the lamps he’s carved. Kevin enjoys adding small details that make his characters complete. For example, he has given a mechanic small wooden pens for his shirt pocket and bobby pins for a female character who has her hair up in curls. Once the character’s features are all put in place Kevin is then able to begin the sanding and smoothing process. After everything is in place he is able to add another dimension to his characters by painting them. In some cases, Kevin is able to make a character become more comi-

cal by adding a splash of paint here or there. One of the final steps is applying a clear fingernail polish to the eyes and teeth to make them appear wet and more lifelike. Making just one character used to take a while for Kevin to complete. With the tremors he had to be very careful not to cut himself with an X-Acto knife while whittling, or have any other mishaps with the other tools. Now, two and a half years of making Woodie Buddies and a year after the surgery, Kevin is able to finish one character in a week’s time. “Life is too short, and I have a second chance,” Kevin said. “There is hope beyond a disease like Parkinson’s. (My main goal with my Woodie Buddies is) to keep moving regardless of the disease and to keep my mind sharp, to continue to see a character that I have sketched and to give people joy.”

Photo by Kaylee Dunham

Cindy and Kevin Davis have been through a lot together, but they got through the hard times and continue to ﬁnd things to smile and laugh about.