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Update On The School District At Next Learn With The League
There will be an update on our school district at the next Learn with the League meeting to be held on Wednesday, November 20 at 10:00 a.m. at the American Legion Hall, 850 N. St. Vrain. All are welcome to attend. No registration necessary.
Did you know that the EP Schools have improved test scores and attendance?
At this event, the Estes Park School District Team will share past years’ growth and ongoing work driven by the Strategic Plan.
You’ll learn about, and get to ask questions about these topics from these pre-
senters:
Strengths and challenges in the EP schools: Ruby Bode. Ruby joined Estes Park School District in 2005 and is Superintendent of Estes Park Schools.
What are Ruby’s goals for the School System?
The Role of a Board Member: Stacy Ferree. Stacy is the current school board president.
Have you wondered what it’s like to be on the School Board?
Meeting the needs of all students: Sundee Pietsch
Sundee is Director of Student Services,
Estes Park School District.
Curriculum: Carmen Williams
Changes and improvements in curriculum, and plans for the future.
Finance: Brian Lund
Brian will speak to the District’s Financial Plan.
Buildings and Operations: Eric Adams
What is the School Board’s Building Plan?
If you can’t attend, look for an article by Caltha Crowe in the local papers, after the event.
Ruby Bode
Stacy Ferree
Sundee Pietsch
Carmen Williams
Brian Lund
Eric Adams
It's Blue Santa Time!
By: Michelle Fanucchi, Auxiliary Member
Sponsored by the Estes Park Police Department’s Auxiliary Unit, the Blue Santa program purchases and delivers non-perishable food and hygiene products to disabled, shut-in, and elderly community members need ing holiday cheer in De cember. Estes Park has about 100 Blue Santa recipients each year. Nominations for community members to receive a delivery should be submitted before Nov. 30, 2024. Community members may email nominations to BlueSanta@estes.org or use the online nomination form at estes.org/bluesanta. Bright Christmas recipients are not eligible for Blue Santa. You can help by sending your monetary donation to the Blue Santa Program, c/o Estes Park Police Auxiliary, P.O. Box 1287, Estes Park, CO 80517; or leave a donation in one of the Blue Santa donation jars around town. Jars are located at Animal Medical Center, Bank of Col-
orado, Bank of Estes Park, Bart’s Liquor, Cowlick Hair Saloon, Mountain Dew Liquors, Estes Park Mountain Shop, Premier Credit Union, Park Supply, Rocky Mountain Discount Liquor and Rocky Mountain Pharmacy. To use your credit or debit card, please go to estes.org/onlinepayments. Scroll down the page to “Police Department Services Payment”. Select “EP Police Dept Donations” and then type “Blue Santa” in the description and your donation amount in the “Price”. You can then checkout and receive a receipt.
All donations are used to fund items for Blue Santa recipients, and the Blue Santa program is only possible through your compassion for those in need and your generous donations. For more information, please contact us at BlueSanta@estes.org.
Town Offices Closed
In Observance Of Veterans Day
Town of Estes Park municipal offices will be closed Monday, Nov. 11, in observance of Veterans Day. Offices will
The charge(s) are merely an accusation and the defendant is presumed innocent until and unless proven guilty.
On 10/28/2024 at 12:18 p.m. police contacted a 33 year old Estes Park male in the 400 block of Moraine Ave. pursuant to a motor vehicle accident. On scene, the driver was charged with careless driving, displaying fictitious license plates, failure to present evidence of insurance, driving without a valid driver’s license and driving an unregistered motor vehicle. The male was issued a summons and released.
On 10/30/2024 at 12:25 a.m. officers responded to a report of a male who crashed his moped at Park Lane and Virginia Drive and found him to be DUI. The 29 year old male from Estes Park was
EVFPD firefighters generally respond to medical calls in their personal vehicles, allowing for a faster response. On other incidents, firefighters respond to a fire station to respond in department apparatus with specialized equipment.
During the week of October 27th, 2024, the Estes Valley Fire Protection District (EVFPD) responded to 11 calls for serv-
resume normal operating hours Tuesday, Nov. 12. For more information, please call the Public Information Office at 970-577-3701.
charged with DUI, arrested and later released with a summons.
On 11/1/2024 at 10:48 p.m. police contacted a 26 year old Estes Park female in the 600 block of Halbach Lane who was wanted on an outstanding warrant for a felony. She was arrested and transported to the Larimer County Jail.
On 11/2/2024 at 8:51 a.m. officers contacted a 47 year old male from Boulder, CO in the 900 block of North S. Vrain Ave. pursuant to a REDDI report. Officers found him to be DUI and unlawfully in possession of a controlled substance. He was charged with DUI, unlawful possession of a controlled substance, arrested and transported to the Larimer County Jail.
ice. This included:
Alarm Activation: 3
Emergency Medical (assist EPH): 2
Motor Vehicle Accident (MVA): 1
Assist: 3
Possible Illegal Burn: 1
Smoke Investigation: 1 www.estesvalleyfire.org
East Riverside Lot Partially Closed For Stormwater Pipe Installation Nov. 4-18
To facilitate stormwater improvement work, the East Riverside Lot closed Monday, Nov. 4, and will remain closed through Monday, Nov. 18. The construction area will be limited to the south half of the parking lot, with the remaining section accessible to the public. Please note that the parking lot will not be accessible from Riverside Drive during this project. This work will be performed by the
Street & Stormwater Operations Division of the Public Works Department. This stormwater improvement project is made possible through the Ballot Issue 1A sales tax funding approved by voters in 2024. To learn more about the use of 1A funds for stormwater improvements, please visit www.estes.org/stip or contact the Public Works Department at 970-577-3587 or publicworks@estes.org.
Chamber Launches Discussion Sessions To Enhance Member Education And Drive Business
By: Estes Chamber of Commerce
"The overarching goal of the Chamber is deliver to our member businesses resources that support their business growth and development," said Colleen DePasquale, President, Estes Chamber of Commerce.
Over the past several months, the Chamber board has been polling members to gather insights on ad ditional services or resources that could provide value to the membership. "From the discussions we've been hav ing with our nearly 500 members, we've seen some trends," said Mem bership Committee Chair and You Need Pie owner Val Thompson. "Multiple member business owners said that they would appreciate small discussion groups to share knowledge, talk through common issues and brainstorm solutions. To that end, we have scheduled three discussion groups centered around topics common to all of us," Thompson added.
agenda.
"How to gain local business"
December 2nd, 2024
4:00 p.m. to 5:30 p.m.
Avant Garde Aleworks
This discussion group is designed for business owners who find it challenging to attract and retain local customers despite marketing efforts or high visitor interest. This collaborative session will include an open discussion where participants can share their specific challenges, get feedback, and brainstorm creative ways to tackle common consumer traffic hurdles with fellow business owners and managers.
"How can I use social media to help my business"
December 11th, 2024
8:30 a.m. to 10:00 a.m.
The Bull Pin
Mark your calendars for the first three Chamber Discussion Groups:
"Planning for the Off Season"
November 12th, 2024
8:30 a.m. to 10:00 a.m.
You Need Pie Diner & Bakery
This discussion group is designed for business owners and managers preparing for the seasonal slowdown when cash flow challenges are more common. In this participant-led collaborative session, participants will discuss tried-andtrue methods to manage expenses, boosting off-season revenue, and maintaining financial health until business picks up again. The realities of staff reduction and potential for job sharing among businesses will also be on the
This discussion group invites local business owners and managers to share effective social media tactics that have boosted their visibility, engagement, and sales. In an era where social media is vital for brand presence, this session focuses on practical, real-world examples of strategies that work, from content creation to audience engagement. A discussion where attendees can ask questions, swap stories, and brainstorm ways to refine their social media strategies together.
Registration for these discussion sessions is encouraged and can be done through the Chamber website. If you are a business owner who would like to join the Chamber and gain access to these great learning opportunities, please contact director@esteschamber.org
One Hour with Jesus
Genealogical Society Meeting November 14 Features Oral Histories Of Herman Lehmann & Charles Eagle Plume
The Estes Park Genealogical Society will meet on Thursday, November 14, at 1:00 p.m. in the Hondius Room of the Estes Valley Library. Richard Somers will present stories from the oral histories of Herman Lehmann and Charles Eagle Plume.
Genealogy is more than names, dates, and family trees. It is also the stories of family members telling us where we came from and the culture of times past. Herman Lehmann (1859-1932) was a German immigrant, captured and raised by native Americans, and a product of many cultures. His story is of a life lived with the many people whose lives built the West we live in today. Charles Eagle Plume (19081992) came to Estes Park shortly after the founding of RMNP. His story recorded in 1979 tells of early life in Estes Park and the Tahosa Valley. He was also devoted to the native peoples who came before him honored by his life’s work preserving their crafts, telling and re-telling their stories.
Our thanks go out to the Estes Park Museum and Library for their support of this meeting. A very special thanks to the Eagle Plume families for preserving these stories of the beautiful land that is in and around Estes Park“Neaese” - Northern Cheyenne for “Thank you.”
The EPGS meets the 2nd Thursday of the month, offering a wide variety of programs and workshops. More information about the Society can be found on its website estesparkgenealogicalsociety.weebly.com Anyone interested in family history research is welcome to attend these free public programs.
Come join us.
Estes Park Aviation Club To Meet November 13
The November meeting of the Estes Park Aviation Club will be held at 6:30 p.m. November 13th at the American Legion Club. The public is invited to attend. Chuck Stout, the speaker for the meeting, will be speaking on the topic "Those Dang Little Airplanes: Menace or Necessity?" Are you one of those people who gets annoyed when a small airplane flies overhead? Do you worry about the safety of small aircraft or their pilots? The only time many of us hear about small airplanes is when there has been an accident or a crash. Are they really necessary, or are they merely expensive toys for the very wealthy? Most people have no idea how many ways small aircraft and their pilots contribute to their everyday lives. From helping to put food on your table, to fighting wildfires, to delivering packages overnight, to finding lost hikers and skiers, those dang little airplanes and their pilots provide dozens of benefits for all of us—even for people who never go near the airport. Specifically, Chuck will be addressing the local controversy of closing the Boulder and Longmont/Loveland airports.
Chuck is a Wings Over the Rockies museum’s Curator Emeritus and has been involved in both aerospace and museum work his entire adult life. Chuck learned to fly as a teenager and has been an active pilot ever since, but ironically, has never
flown for a living. However, he has helped to design, build and test satellites, helped to write and illustrate dozens of books and online courses to train pilots, created scores of museum exhibits, and given hundreds of presentations on science and aerospace topics. He’s passionate about encouraging Americans to improve their critical thinking skills, and especially likes sharing his interest in aerospace history.
The Aviation Club meeting is Wednesday November 13th at 6:30 p.m. at the American Legion Post 119 Hall, located at 850 No. St. Vrain Ave. in Estes Park.
As always, the Legion is open to the public with food and drink for purchase at 5:30. Our gathering is open to all interested so if you fly planes, are interested in space subjects or just talking to aviation enthusiasts come join us!
Estes Park School District Seeks Community Members For Long-Range Master Planning Committee
The Estes Park School District (EPSD) is launching a new LongRange Master Planning Committee to help shape the future of district facilities, finances, and operations for the next 20 years. This committee will provide thoughtful advisement on and strategic insights to guide EPSD's development, ensuring sustainability, growth, and excellence in education. EPSD is calling on community members with relevant expertise and a passion for education to apply. This is an exciting opportunity for individuals to contribute directly to the future of the district’s schools, facilities, and programs.
"Our goal is to build a vibrant learning environment that serves both current and future generations," said Superintendent Ruby Bode. "We're looking for community members who are committed to supporting our schools and helping us create a roadmap that honors the unique character of Estes Park while meeting the changing needs of our district."
Areas of Expertise Sought: EPSD is seeking individuals with knowledge or experience in:
Historical context of Estes Park
School District
Finance and budgeting
Construction or facilities management
Operations and logistics
Organizational planning processes
Academic/extracurricular program knowledge (preferred)
Committee Details:
Membership: Approximately 10 community members will be selected.
Timeline: The committee will meet regularly from January through May 2024.
Impact: Members will work closely with Superintendent Ruby Bode and the Board of Education to provide recommendations that shape long-term decisions impacting students, staff, and the broader community.
How to Apply
Interested community members are invited to apply online. The application process is now open, and submissions will be accepted through November 22, 2024.
For additional information, please visit our website or contact EPSD's administrative office at 970-586-2361.
Chuck Stout
Boulder Municipal Airport
DID YOU KNOW?
Salud Family Health Estes Park provides free, quality dental care to your children.
¿SABÍA QUE?
Salud Family Health Estes Park les proporciona a sus hijos atención dental gratuita y de calidad.
FREE dental care for Estes Park kids! ¡Atención dental para los niños de Estes Park GRATIS!
Did you know?
Tooth decay is the most common unmet health care need of children.
Children with poor oral health are 3 times more likely to miss school due to dental pain.
Untreated oral health issues can lead to pain and infection, resulting in problems with eating, speaking, and learning.
FREE On-site:
Pediatric Dental Services
Who is Eligible?
Children and young adults through age 20
FREE Services Include:
• Exams with X-rays
• Cleanings
• Fillings
• Crowns
• Extractions
• Referrals as Needed
These services are provided FREE thanks to the Estes
Park Salud Foundation.
Ask the front desk or call today to learn more!
¿Sabía que?
La caries dental es la afección sin atender más frecuente entre los niños.
Los niños con mala salud bucal tienen 3 veces más probabilidades de faltar a la escuela debido a dolores dentales.
Los problemas de salud bucal no tratados pueden provocar dolor e infecciones, que resultan en problemas para comer, hablar y aprender.
GRATIS en el sitio:
Servicios dentales pediátricos
¿Quién es elegible?
Niños y jóvenes hasta los 20 años de edad
Los servicios GRATIS incluyen:
• Examenes, incluyendo radiografías
• Limpiezas
• Empastes
• Coronas
• Extracciones
• Referencias según sea necesario
Estos servicios se proporcionan GRATIS gracias a la Fundación Salud Estes Park. ¡Pregunte en la recepción o llame hoy mismo para obtener más información!
Salud Dental acepta el Medicaid del estado de Colorado, CHP+ y Delta Dental. Salud ofrece tarifas de descuentos con base en el tamaño de la familia e ingresos. Se ofrece asistencia para la inscripción.
¿Cuándo se incorporó a la clínica de Salud de Estes Park?
Me incorpore a la clínica de Estes Park en abril. Antes de eso, yo estuve como director en la clínica de Salud de Longmont durante aproximadamente 5 años.
Y entonces, ¿cómo terminó en la clínica de Estes Park?
Yo estaba en Estes, para encargarme provisionalmente de la clínica dental, ya que en aquel momento no había dentista. Llegué, pude ver lo bonita que era la clínica, obviamente lo precioso que es Estes Park, la vida salvaje, y realmente me hizo pensar: «Hombre, esto es muy bonito».
¿Cuántos empleados trabajan actualmente en la Clínica Dental de Salud?
Actualmente tenemos 5, incluyéndome a mí. Tenemos 2 asistentes dentales en los consultorios, un asistente de recepción, y Susan, que es una higienista dental. Ofrecemos una variedad de servicios vitales, incluyendo empastes, extracciones, cirugía oral, coronas, puentes, dentaduras parciales, dentaduras completas, endodoncias (si podemos salvar un diente), caries, etc.
También ofrecemos patología oral para identificar si el cáncer está presente; es parte de la detección integral. Las biopsias se realizan in situ.
¿Qué es lo que más le gusta de trabajar en Estes Park?
El entorno natural es lo que me atrajo a CO en primer lugar. Me encanta la bicicleta de montaña, acampar, hacer senderismo, paddleboard. Me gustaría encontrar algo en Estes Park, un pedazo de tierra. No necesito mucho en lo que respecta a una casa, pero me encantaría una parcela de tierra para construir.
¿Cuál es el mejor consejo que le daría a los padres (y a los adultos) para mantener una rutina dental constante, que incluya revisiones anuales?
Creo que, ya sabes, una buena práctica para los adultos es venir a un chequeo anual. Los niños, cada seis meses. Intenta centrarte en el cuidado en casa: cepillarte los dientes y usar hilo dental en casa como parte de tu rutina
diaria.
También debes ser consciente de lo que metes en tu cuerpo; no es muy diferente de cómo las opciones dietéticas afectan tu salud en general. Los alimentos muy procesados y con alto contenido en azúcar suelen provocar más caries. Revisa algunas partes de tu dieta y trata de reducir esas cosas, especialmente los refrescos. El té dulce, el café, cosas que no parecen ser tan obvias, pero a las que añadimos azúcar, también pueden ser algo que afecte la salud de tu cuerpo y a lo que tus dientes están expuestos.
¿Qué y a quiénes ve más en relación con temas dentales?
Atendemos a todo el mundo. Como Centro de Salud Comunitario y como red de seguridad para los que están desatendidos, o si Medicaid es su proveedor: somos la única clínica que ofrece estos servicios.
He leído que la caries dental es la afección menos tratada y más frecuente en los niños, y que, sin tratamiento, puede provocar dolor, infecciones e incluso problemas de habla y aprendizaje.
La caries dental es el problema que más afecta a los niños. El dolor dental va a afectar su asistencia a la escuela, provocando absentismo, problemas de confianza en sí mismos y de autoestima (dientes ausentes o cariados).
Sé, como miembro de la Junta de la Fundación Salud, que estamos patrocinando un programa de atención dental gratuita, que incluye una variedad de servicios, hasta los 21 años de edad.
¿Qué servicios gratuitos se ofrecen con el programa de atención dental?
El programa de servicios gratuitos es específicamente para niños y adultos jóvenes, hasta los 21 años. Esto incluye cualquier tratamiento que ofrecemos aquí, incluyendo el examen inicial, la limpieza, cualquier necesidad preventiva que identificamos que tengan, incluyendo selladores (en las áreas donde una pequeña grieta o fosa no está recibiendo un cepillado a fondo-un poco de comida residual se queda allí y crea una caries. En nuestros niños más pequeños, se recomiendan selladores para cubrir estas pequeñas fosas para evitar que los alimentos se queden atrapados allí y así sean menos propensos a desarrollar una caries en esa zona. En los dientes posteriores y molares son donde siempre recomendamos selladores - aislar la zona, aplicar sellador: NO hay dolor en el procedimiento) empastes, coronas, endodoncias, extracciones, todas esas cosas las podemos hacer en la clínica. Última pregunta: ¿qué es lo que le gusta de trabajar en Estes Park?
Sólo he estado aquí por un período corto hasta ahora, pero he encontrado que todo el mundo que he conocido en Estes ha sido muy amable y cordial. Me alegra trabajar en esta comunidad. Hay una gran necesidad y me complace poder llenar ese vacío.
For the most part, I produce The Thunker on Tuesday nights. Often I don’t sit down at my computer to write until after we’ve cleaned up from dinner, which means many times I get started late and don’t finish until way after my usual bedtime. Tuesday is the one night of the week when I might be awake at midnight.
I am writing this week’s column on election night after the polls have closed but before we know the end results. I am tuckered out after toiling close to 14 hours as an election worker. The television is on and the talking heads are analyzing tirelessly the undetermined results of blue versus red. The entire country stands on tippy-toes on the political balance beam, waiting to see which side will lose their balance and tumble down, disappointed and heartbroken.
By the time people turn to Page 9 of the Estes Park News on its official distribution day of Friday, there will be a winner and a loser. The results may not be certain, but we will have some idea of who came out on top. I hope that’s the case anyway, because if we have to relive a repeat of the prolonged debacle of the Bush/Gore contest of 2000, I will pack up and move to Bora Bora faster than you can say “Hanging Chad.”
It’s been a long, slow slog to get to this point. Now that it’s over the focus needs to shift to one of care. Battered and bruised as a society, we need to devote our time and energy to taking care of ourselves, each other and our Earth.
Let’s start by stepping outside. Could it get any better than this? There is the grandiose of the mountains, the oceans, the deserts and forests; yes. But I’m thinking tonight of the commonalities in nature we all have the privilege to enjoy: the sun, the moon, the stars, the glowing red and orange
clouds at sunset, the colorful leaves, the crisp cold of the night air, the toasty scents of autumn we don’t get to smell any other time of year…the list of beauty on our fragile planet goes on and on. No matter what the final tally is from the election, none of these gorgeous affects will change. The sun will still rise, the stars will continue to sparkle, the trees will generously stand watch over us. Breathe in slowly, and as you do, think positive thoughts about yourself and others in your corner of the universe. We can do this, no matter who is president of the United States. Take and give care.
Back inside, we still have at our fingertips the endless scope of books, art, music, architecture, food, exercise, and for me, our dog Chance. I’ll stop at Chance, with his question mark marking on his noggin, his feathery tail, his precious soul. It matters not to Chance who won the election. He will still twirl with mad delight at the word “ride,” forever squeak his bunny toy in hopes I’ll get on the floor to play with him, and cuddle any time, day or night, looking adoringly at his personal masseuse with his big, brown, trusting eyes. Can we do simple things for each other that might elicit similar responses: mad delight, hope, adoration and trust? No politics required. Tomorrow the world will continue to spin, possibly a tad off-kilter, but it will be a beautiful day, no matter what. With that in mind, I am turning in early this Tuesday night, well before midnight. I intend to wake up tomorrow to a fresh new day and will give Chance an extra rub between his ears before I get down on the floor to play.
You may let The Thunker know what you think at her e-mail address, donoholdt@gmail.com.
On Monday, November 11 the American Legion Post 119 will honor and thank our veterans with several events.
From 7-10 a.m. there will be a free breakfast buffet for all veterans. The buffet is available to others for $15.
At 2:00 p.m. at The Tavern at the Legion, a veteran’s first beer is on the Legion! (21+ only).
At 3:00 p.m. the Legion invites you to
attend the ceremony at the Veterans Monument located at the Estes Park Visitor’s Center on Highway 34. 6:00 p.m. Listening at the Legion with Veteran singer songwriter Mike Ryan. Free admission for all veterans, $20 general admission.
The American Legion is located at 850 N. St. Vrain, Estes Park. www.esteslegion.org
Estes Park Museum Supported Through Annual Membership Appreciation Party
The Estes Park Museum showed its appreciation of its membership on October 17, 2024 by presenting many project milestones and accomplishments. Thanks to sponsorship from Safeway, You Need Pie!, Claire’s Restaurant and Bar, Poppy’s Pizza and Grill, and two anonymous donors, the celebration with over 75 attendees was a near no-cost event. Museum Director Derek Fortini shared information regarding the hiring of two 12-month employees, a recent match campaign that garnered a total of over $14,000, and the well-received Estes Park Museum Friends & Foundation Press 2024 publication, He Came and Stayed: Pieter Hondius: the Estes Park Years by Dr. James Pickering. Additionally, upcoming fundraising events were discussed, such as the Creative Colorado Tablesetting/Scaping event with the theme of “Books and Movies: Then & Now” that will take place November 16 and 17, 2024 at Ember at the Estes Park Resort.
Another significant highlight of the evening included the premier of the reenvisioned Estes Park Museum Membership Program. Individuals now can become Estes Park Museum Members by giving what you can with a $35 minimum. The Museum’s goal is to
reach 400 Members. For a full list of Member benefits visit estes.org/ estespark-museum-friends-foundation-inc.
The Members Appreciation Party concluded with tours of the newly renovated Museum Annex, viewing the recently installed 100 supporter pavers, exploration of the new Museum Shop, temporary exhibit, and the exhibit workshop. Staff recognized Bobbie Heisterkamp for all her contributions to the Museum Annex facility. From being the main catalyst and a major donor, she has continued to be an advocate and volunteer helping with fundraising endeavors. Fittingly, the area where public researchers can utilize reference resources, undigitized archival materials, and artifacts will be known as the Heisterkamp Family Reference Library.
To help support the Estes Park Museum, local history, and be informed of future Museum activities, consider becoming a Museum Member today. Make your donation at estes.org/estespark-museum-friends-foundation-inc or by mailing a check to “Estes Park Museum Friends & Foundation” (write “membership” in memo line and include an email address) to 200 4th Street, Estes Park, CO 80517.
Museum Oral History Program: Estes Speaks
On Saturday, November 9, at 1:00 p.m. learn from the locals at the Estes Park Museum during the fall series, Estes Speaks. For the second in the series of three featured oral histories, staff will be sharing the audio interview of Enda Mills Kiley (1919 – 2009). In this 2006 interview, she reflects on her time growing up near Estes Park, describing her experiences and memories outdoors, particularly those pertaining to the legacy of her father, Enos Mills.
Beginning in the late 1970s and continuing today, the Estes Park Museum and Library staff began gathering interviews from local individuals. Interviewing has continued to today through the 2013 flood, a 2014 series with prominent local climbers/mountaineers, and first responders to the 2020 fires. With a variety of topics and eras spanning across
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Estes Park Holiday Lights Recycle Project
The Estes Valley Sunrise Rotary is partnering with the Youth at the Estes Park High School to host the first annual old/bad holiday light string recycling project starting November 1, 2024 through January 15, 2025.
This project lets you drop off old/bad holiday light strings for recycling, such as rope lights, mini’s, and the older lights that we all grew up with, rather than have them end up in the landfill.
Residents in and around Estes Park are invited to dispose of old/bad holiday strings of lights during this free recycling project November 1, 2024-January 15, 2025.
This project is an educational and service project for Estes Park High School and Middle School students, the Estes Park Middle School (Rotary) Interact Club, the Estes Park Art Students and the Estes Valley Sunrise Rotary Club who will reg-
ularly empty the collection boxes between November 1, 2024-January 15, 2025.
Collection locations:
• Estes Park High School Lobby
• Estes Park Middle School Lobby
• Estes Valley Recreation Center
• The Estes Valley Library
• National Park Village (lobby between Country Market and Mad Moose) Only holiday light strings will be collected.
Items NOT included are artificial trees, garland, wrapping paper or ornaments.
For more information about this recycle program, contact Estes Valley Sunrise Rotary Club at evsr@evsr.org or call or text Dean Belka at 402-499-5664.
The Rotary Club Of Estes Park
Presents David Batey & Vern Carda
Thursday, November 14
David Batey, Estes Park Health (EPH) Board Chair and Vern Carda, EPH CEO will discuss the proposed merger of EPH with UC Health.
We meet at the American Legion and the public is invited to attend. The Noon Rotary meeting starts at 12 p.m. If you would like to join us for lunch it starts at 11:30 a.m. and cost is $20. Please RSVP to noonrotary@aol.com by 12 noon on Tuesday, November 12th if joining us for lunch.
RSVP By November 13: National Philanthropy Day Is Filling Up!
By: Karen McPherson, Estes Nonprofit Network
National Philanthropy Day in Estes Park brings together over 350 do-gooders at the YMCA of the Rockies on November 21. Hear nonprofit industry updates, visit with nonprofit organizations, and help celebrate philanthropic nominees and award winners. The YMCA of the Rockies generously supports this event by preparing an abundant buffet of hearty appetizers,
staff, technology, and their Assembly Hall for us to gather. Avant Garde Aleworks and Snowy Peaks Winery have donated libations.
This event is open and FREE. Come! You will leave feeling flush with warm fuzzies. Please RSVP to attend at epnonprofit.org until Wednesday, November 13.
The Estes Park Nonprofit Resource Center serves and supports the Estes Valley Nonprofit Industry. National Philanthropy allows us to powerfully tell the story of philanthropy in our community.
Vern Carda & David Batey
AI: Your Family’s New Best Friend!
Remember Rosie from the Jetsons?
Imagine having a helpful buddy at home that never sleeps, always listens, and is ready to assist you at a moment’s notice. That’s AI for you!
It’s not just for tech whizzes or big businesses anymore; it’s here to make life easier for families, and that includes everyone from kids to seniors.
Easy Interfaces
Using AI is as simple as pie! AI-
powered virtual assistants like Amazon’s Alexa, Google Assistant, and Apple’s Siri have revolutionized how people interact with technology in their homes. Trailblazer is using AI to assist in writing this article!
Talk to Me: With voice commands, you can just say what you need. “Hey Google, play my favorite playlist!”
No need for complicated buttons or manuals—just good old-fashioned
chat.
Visual Helpers: Many apps come with friendly guides that show you the ropes. Think of it as having a personal tutor who’s always there to help!
Family Bonding Made Fun
AI isn’t just about tech; it’s about bringing families closer together!
Calendar Coordination: Keep everyone in the loop with shared calendars. No more “I thought we were meeting at 3!” moments—everyone knows what’s happening!
Peace of Mind: With remote monitoring tools, family members can check in on children and seniors
from afar. It’s like having a virtual safety net that keeps everyone connected.
Chatting Made Simple
Staying in touch has never been easier!
Smart Messaging: AI can help craft the perfect message or even suggest replies. So if Grandma wants to text you about her new knitting project, she can do it without breaking a sweat!
Video Calls Without the Hassle: Forget fumbling with buttons! AI can make video calls as easy as saying, “Let’s call Mom!”
Healthcare and Support AI is enabling more tailored healthcare and support for seniors:
Telemedicine platforms: AI-enhanced telemedicine services can provide remote health monitoring and virtual consultations, improving access to healthcare for seniors in remote areas.
Personalized treatment plans: AI algorithms can analyze health data to provide customized care recommendations and treatment plans.
Personalized Workouts: AI-powered fitness apps can create tailored exercise plans that adapt as you progress. Whether it’s yoga or light strength training, staying fit has never been more accessible (or fun!).
Personalized Magic
AI knows what you like and helps you find more of it!
Adaptive Learning: The more you use it, the smarter it gets! It learns your preferences and becomes even more helpful.
Feedback Fun: Got an idea? Share your thoughts! Many AI tools welcome feedback, so they can keep improving and stay relevant.
In short, AI is not just about technology; it’s about enhancing quality of life. It keeps everyone connected, supports our seniors, and makes daily tasks feel like a breeze. So why not embrace this tech-savvy buddy and enjoy all the fun (and ease) it brings? Cheers to making life simpler and more enjoyable together!
P.S. This article was written in conjunction with Perplexity.ai.
Javelina Jundred 100k: An introduction to the world of ultra running
By: Kirby Nelson-Hazelton
Part 1:
“I’m not the strongest. I’m not the fastest. But I’m really good at suffering.” –Amelia Boone, Ultra runner
Sometime in the past three or four
encouragement and snacks, unseriousness and fun, and the most genuine appreciation for time in nature, on dirt trails in the woods and across mountain passes.
years, I've become a fan of the sport of ultra running. I can’t recall exactly when I first learned of it, but a few winters ago, I was on a run on our basement treadmill and searching for something to watch on my iPad. I found a YouTube documentary about Courtney Dauwalter, one of the most legendary ultra runners of all time, and remember feeling stunned as I watched the story of one of her 100 mile races. It certainly made my casual three mile jog feel a little less insurmountable.
What is ultra running? In short, an ultra race is anything longer than a marathon distance (26.2 miles). Most commonly, ultras are 50k (31 miles), 50 miles, 100k (62 miles), and 100 miles. There are other ultra distances – if you can believe it, 200-250 mile races are growing in popularity – as well as other ultra formats, like “backyard ultras” where runners complete as many 4ish mile loops as possible with the last runner standing as the winner. Ultras typically take place on the trails, sometimes with pavement sections acting as connectors but rarely solely “road races” like the big city marathons. Ultras are intended to be more rugged, more immersed in nature, and just, well, more. I started following Courtney and other ultra athletes like Tara Dower, Emily Halnon, and Howie Stern on social media. That summer, I was live streaming and tracking most big ultra races like Western States, Hard Rock, High Lonesome, UTMB, and others. Soon, I was subscribing to publications and podcasts from pros and coaches and just-for-fun runners, soaking up all the information I could. Ultra running was joyful: a sport full of
A few years later, sometime in 2023, I decided I wanted to see if I was only a spectator of the sport, or if I could (just maybe) be an athlete participating in it. I had been poking around, researching which race might be a good first ultra, and settled on the Javelina Jundred, a well-known series of races just outside of Phoenix that was popular for being flat(ish) and very fun.
At the stroke of midnight on New Year's Eve and the minute registration for Javelina opened, I booked myself for the 100k. I was a little shocked, both at the race entry fee (which was much steeper than past half and full marathons – for good reason, I would learn), but mostly at my own audacity. Was I really going to go from a casual hobby runner to an ultra marathoner?
Only one way to find out: I spent the next ten months training my body and my brain. From January through May, I was running and hiking (or incline walking or jogging on a treadmill when the weather didn’t cooperate), as much as I could. I signed myself up for the first step in experiencing trail running and evaluating my fitness: a 25-mile race in late spring in Lory State Park. I completed the course, albeit slowly and somewhat painfully. “I’m never signing up for a spring race again,” I grumbled. I was learning that this kind of training was tough to balance with my other commitments, but vowed to arrive at the Javelina start line less undertrained.
In June, I launched into a 100k training program built around 4-5 runs per week.
Mid-week, shorter distance runs included some speed days and hill training; weekends were reserved for the longerbut-easypaced runs. While marathon training plans typically require runners to complete 20-22 miles at the peak of their training (just a few miles shy of the full distance), ultra training plans rarely approach the actual mileage of race day. For example, a 100k race plan’s longest run is usually 50k, or 31 miles. Still a long way, but not as near race distance as plans for marathon training. To simulate race day, ultra training focuses on back-to-back long runs, which typically means a significant distance one day and additional time-
Amy Hamrick and totaled over 25 miles with nearly 8,000 feet of elevation gain).
When October rolled around, the “taper” began, which is when a runner cuts back on mileage in order to recover and rest for the big race day. The taper is also a time to focus on the mental component of the race – conditioning your brain for positive thinking and tenacity, preparing for the inevitable need to overcome adversity, and building other mental tools that are just as important as the physical training. I spent countless
on-feet the next. Instead of resting after a high exertion day, you’re challenged to get back on the trail for more running and power hiking. This not only trains your body to operate when it’s tired, but conditions your mind to keep going when it’s hard.
If I’m being totally honest, I completed around 60% of my scheduled runs, and I’d blame similar reasons as during the spring: busy schedule and “real life” commitments. What I prioritized, though, were those weekend runs and hikes, focusing on long days so I could get used to moving forward on tired legs and feet. I also included a lot of elevation gain in my training, even though the Javelina Jundred course is fairly flat and at about 2,000 feet above sea level. I viewed that vert as strength training and building mental toughness (shoutout to my peak week adventure, which was designed by
hours reading race logs, listening to affirmations, visioning the finish line, and (again, in the spirit of transparency) lying awake at night worrying about the details – and my ability to actually do this. Was I really going to become an ultra marathoner?
Come back next week for part two: the race, the crew, and the results.
Snowbank Lake.
Bib pick-up with Jordan at Javelina, the day before the race. Crystal Lake with Laura Shepard.
Peak Day at Lake Nokoni with Amy Hamrick.
Celebrating my first trail race (25 miles) in May with cheerleading friends.
Exploring Wild Basin.
What Is The Quota Loan Closet
Estes Park Quota, as a service to our community, opened the Medical Equipment Loan Closet in 1952 with a walker, a cane and a wheelchair and the volunteers worked out of a member’s home. That first year the Loan Closet served 27 people. The Loan Closet now has over 624 pieces of medical equipment valued at almost $100,000.00, available for loan to all of Estes Valley and our visitors. Since the 1980’s, the Quota Loan Closet has been housed on Estes Park Health property. Staffing for Loan Closet is done totally through the volun-
teer efforts of 14 Quota members who are available to check out or accept returns of equipment seven days a week. In 2023, 258 individuals checked out 475 pieces of equipment. Quota is a non-profit organization so the service is free with a refundable deposit and/or donation. The funds donated support the repairs and replacement of our equipment. For infsormation on how to secure medical equipment from the Loan Closet, visit estesparkquota.com or call Linda Polland at 719-337-3318.
And The Nominees Are…
By: Karen McPherson, Estes Nonprofit Network
Innumerable community members make a point to create a better Estes Valley and they deserve to be celebrated. A heartful congratulations to the candidates put forth by their peers and associates in this community.
Major sponsors will call all candidates to be recognized and present an award to the winner in each of the five categories: Youth, Business, Enduring Service, Katie Speer Individual Philanthropist of the Year, and the Shavlik Nonprofit of the Year. Award winners are chosen by an independent vol-
unteer committee of community members. The Estes Park Nonprofit Network staff and board do not serve on the awards committee.
Award winners will be announced at the National Philanthropy Day in Estes Park celebrations on November 21, 2024. This event is open and FREE. Come! You will leave feeling flush with warm fuzzies. RSVP closes Wednesday, November 13. RSVP at epnonprofit.org.
The Estes Nonprofit Network serves and supports the Estes Valley Nonprofit Industry. National Philanthropy allows us to powerfully tell the story of philanthropy in our community.
Lillian Yager 11th Grade
Congratulations to Lillian Yager, the Estes Park High School Student of the Week for November 8, 2024.
Lillian is the daughter of Heidi Salow and Donald Yager.
AT EPHS, Lillian is a member of Link Crew and in choir. She maintains a 3.9 GPA.
Outside of school, she enjoys hiking with her family or boyfriend when she has time. She has two horses she likes to ride. She said, “I enjoy just casually riding my horse, I used to compete and take being an equestrian more seriously, but now I just have fun with it.” Lillian works at Sweet Basilico as a hostess. She has a sister named Shaylee.
A place Lillian loves to visit is Lily Lake and Bridal Veil Falls, which are her favorite hikes.
Lillian’s favorite quote is, “There are years that ask questions and years that answer.” She said, “I like this quote because I remember being worried about certain things a while ago and all that wonder and worry has now been answered. I am so worried about my future, it’s not far away at all. My life will be so
Quota Club provides scholarships primarily to women for career development or a return to school later in life. If you are a local resident interested in receiving scholarship monies email: akasper45@yahoo.com with questions or for an application.
different a year from now, I’ll be a senior. I have even more questions about my life beyond high school and college. It’s kind of scary, but I know those answers will come, I’m the only one to answer these big worrisome questions.”
After high school she plans to take a year off and maybe find the answers to all the questions she has now. She also plans to take a trip to Moab with her best friend.
Peggy Lynch Honored With Lifetime Achievement Award For Dedication To The Estes Valley
In a heartfelt ceremony held last weekend, Peggy Lynch of RE/MAX Mountain Brokers was awarded the prestigious Lifetime Achievement Award by the Estes Valley Board of REALTORS®. This rare honor, reserved for individuals who have made extraordinary contributions to their community and profession, recognizes Peggy’s unwavering commitment and dedication over her remarkable 35-year career.
Peggy has been a cornerstone of the Estes Valley real estate community, serving her fellow board members and clients with exceptional professionalism and an authentic REALTOR® spirit. Her extensive knowledge and expertise have not only made her a trusted advisor but have also elevated the standards of service in the industry.
Beyond her professional accomplishments, Peggy has made significant contributions to the Estes Valley community through her extensive volunteer work. For over three decades, she has been an active member of the Quota Club, dedicating countless hours to support local initiatives. Her involvement extends to organizations such as EVICS, the Fire Department, and various hospital foundations, and she is currently lending her efforts to the Bank of Estes Park Cancer Foundation.
“Peggy embodies the spirit of community service,” said a fellow board member. “Her commitment to making
Estes Park a better place is truly inspiring.”
Those who know Peggy often share stories of her vibrant personality and infectious laughter, which have become synonymous with her presence. In addition to her professional endeavors, Peggy’s unique background includes owning an eatery where she wore many hats—chief waitress, bartender, and even bottle washer—showcasing her willingness to work hard and support her community in every way possible.
The Estes Valley Board of REALTORS® celebrated Peggy’s achievements and the light she brings to the community with the Lifetime Achievement Award, recognizing not just her career, but the kindness and joy she shares with everyone around her. “This award is a testament to Peggy’s remarkable spirit and the positive impact she has had on our community,” the board noted.
As Peggy accepted the award, she expressed her gratitude, saying, “I am humbled and honored to receive this recognition. It has been a privilege to serve this wonderful community and to work alongside so many dedicated individuals.”
In honoring Peggy Lynch, the Estes Valley Board of REALTORS® highlights the importance of service, commitment, and genuine compassion that she exemplifies, leaving an indelible mark on the heart of Estes Park.
Fine Arts Guild Presents Spoon River Anthology This Weekend
Do you remember reading Edgar Lee Masters’ Spoon River Anthology in high school or college English class?
The free verse poems, published in hardback form in 1915, tell the stories behind the epitaphs of the residents of Spoon River, a fictional small town named after the Spoon River which ran near Masters’s hometown of Lewistown, Illinois. The purpose of the poems was to demystify rural and small-town American life and originally included 212 separate characters and 244 accounts or poems of their
Next Knitting & Crocheting Get-Together
Tues. Nov. 12
Everyone is welcome to our free knitting and crocheting get-togethers!
We meet in the Hondius Community Room at the Estes Park Library.
Our next 2024 meeting dates are:
Tuesday, November 12, 2024, 5:007:30 p.m.
Tuesday, December 10, 2024, 5:007:30 p.m.
Bring your woolly project, and let’s craft together.
If you’d like to learn to knit or crochet, we can teach you! It’s free. Just show up! We’ll provide yarn and knitting needles or crochet hooks for you to use during the meeting.
If you have any questions, please contact Jennifer Daley at email jenny@knittingjenny.com.
lives, losses and manners of death.
Masters used many of the surnames found on the tombstones in Oak Hill Cemetery in Lewistown and the characters portrayed in the poems were often based on real people, sometimes only marginally disguised. Due to their objections at being portrayed in the anthology, the book was banned in Lewiston’s schools and libraries until 1974. In 1963, Charles Aidman adapted the work for theater production, reducing the number of characters to 73 and inserting musical interludes between some poems.
The Guild will use Aidman’s adaptation, presented in Readers Theater format. Directed by Denise Shank, the production features Rik Forschmiedt, Kathy Littlejohn, Lars Sage, and Sherry Unruh reading the poems and musical interludes by Cynthia Hunt on piano. Performances will be at Hempel Auditorium, YMCA of the Rockies, November 8 and 9 at 7 p.m. and November 10 at 2 p.m. Tickets are available at Macdonald Book Shop, online at www.fineartsguild.org and at the door.
Come and meet or reacquaint yourself with the former residents of Spoon River and the stories behind their epitaphs!
EPHS Marching Band Takes 3rd At State
The Estes Park High School Marching Band earned third place in the 1A division at the Colorado Bandmasters Association State Marching Band Competition, held in Pueblo on October 28. Their show was titled, Mountain Breeze Jazz.
The band worked hard between the regional competition on October 14 and the state competition. At the regional competition, the band scored 53.2501. Two weeks later at the state semi-finals, the band earned 62.8003 and their final score was 64.3003. This 11 point improvement is an incredible accomplishment and reflects the hard work that Director Kaylin Brennan and the band put in the last few weeks.
The Band Boosters want to acknowledge our bus drivers, Thomas Tarczali and Stacey Adams, for ensuring a safe journey to Pueblo and back. Tom Hoskins and Don Ellis drove our trucks and trailer. Twin Owls Steakhouse lent us chairs. Patti Aldridge led our competition day social media team. Mary Kay Watry organized a special fundraiser, which allowed us to enjoy a celebratory meal at our Thunder Bowl basecamp. Thank you to the families that donated snacks and to the many parents who helped serve meals at basecamp and push instruments and props onto the field.
Thank you to the School Board, Superintendent Ruby Bode, Nolan Oberg, and the school administration and teachers for supporting marching band as an extracurricular activity. Eric Adams helped us with a temporary concession stand, while the stadium was under construction.
Band Boosters are grateful to Director Brennan and assistants Shiloh Daricek, Morgan Peters, Cheyenne Keezel, and Sabrina Basch for their unwavering faith in the band. We had 49 musicians and color guard members participate this fall. The season started in June, and our students came on Saturdays to rehearse. It was a long season, and we are already looking forward to next year.
Congratulations to all involved. Go Band!
Poinsettias and Wreaths are available for preorder until Nov 8th. Place your order now at
Beauty And The Beast Broadway Musical
On The EPHS Stage Nov. 15 & 16
Estes Park High School and Thespian Troupe 7284 are excited to present to you, Disney Beauty and the Beast, The Broadway Musical. The shows will be performed Friday, November 15 at 7 p.m. and Saturday, November 16 at 1 p.m. and 7 p.m. at the Estes Park High School Auditorium.
Beauty & the Beast opens one week from Friday! Don’t miss all your favorite songs “Be Our Guest,” “Gaston,” and of course “Tale as Old as Time.” This is a perfect show for all ages!
Tickets are now available online at tinyurl.com/38n2jvpx and are $15 for adults for the evening performances, $12 for students and children and all seats will be $10 for the Saturday matinee.
Cast Belle- Geneva Thomas
Beast- Colby O’Brien
Gaston- Logan Smith
Maurice- Jacob Palacios
Lefou- Neva Case
Les Filles De La Ville- Piper Karl, Sarah Hoskins, Jade Ertl
Lumiere- Rylan Godby
Cogsworth- Mackenzie Curran
Mrs. Potts- Lily Shields
Chip- Joshua Blevins
Madam De La Grande Bouche- Paige Adams
Babette- Emma Rountree
Monsieur D’Arque- Autumn Siefford
Ensemble- Mya Brese, Hannah Mae
Hatfield, Tori McGillicuddy, Quinn Battin, Lily Beers, Maya Brandewie, Lela Fortini, Evelyn McGillicuddy, Casey Mieszala and Ollie Riffle.
Don’t miss this Disney classic!
John Wolf And Friends: Piano Classics And Chamber Music
Pianist John Wolf and three members of the Emerald Lake Chamber Players will present a Peak to Peak concert of piano classics and chamber music on Saturday, November 16th, at 2:00 p.m. The performance will be held at Shepherd of the Mountains Lutheran Church, 2000 Ptarmigan Trail, off Dry Gulch Road. The Peak to Peak concert series is sponsored
piano for the final piece, Mozart’s Piano Trio in Bb Major, K. 502. Written in 1786, this trio is a lively and exquisite expression of Mozart’s style.
John Wolf earned degrees in music from Southwestern University and SMU. After graduation, he pursued a career in public education and taught piano privately. He is currently a substitute teacher in the Estes Park schools and serves on the board of the Friends of the Library and Foundation.
by the Estes Park Oratorio Society to showcase the talents of local classical musicians. The concert is free, though donations are appreciated.
Mr. Wolf will open the program with Bach’s light and playful Partita No. 1 in Bb Major, a suite of short stylized dances in contrasting tempos, meters, and moods. He will then follow with the 26th of Beethoven’s 32 piano sonatas, the “Les Adieux” Sonata, Op. 81a.
It is dedicated to Beethoven’s student, patron, and friend, the Archduke Rudolph of Austria. In 1809 Napoleon’s army was marching on Vienna, and the nobility had to flee to safety. Beethoven paints a musical picture of his farewell with Rudolph in the first movement. The second movement is an expression of Beethoven’s anguish over the Archduke’s absence, and the third movement is an explosion of joy on their reunion.
Through Rocky Ridge Music he met his current teacher, Hsing-ay Hsu, and takes masterclasses with David Korevaar, Sergio Gallo, and Larry Graham.
Robert Charles Howard is an active conductor, composer, flutist, and poet. He earned degrees in music from Eastern Michigan University and Michigan State University and was on the faculty of Merimec Community College for 31 years. He was the conductor of the orchestra and choir for the Belleville Philharmonic Orchestra and is currently the conductor of the Estes Park Oratorio Society. His compositions have been regularly premiered here in Estes Park and include the cantata, Wilderness Reflections, written for the centennial of Rocky Mountain National Park.
Ann Mills, a Rocky Mountain National
The second half of the program is devoted to chamber music and begins with Robert Howard joining Mr. Wolf for two twentieth century pieces for flute and piano. Samuel Barber’s Canzone is the composer’s arrangement of the lyrical second movement of his Piano Concerto. Suite Modale, by Ernest Bloch, was composed in 1956. Written shortly before his death, the composition has a feeling of reflection on life, with the flute as “the voice of the soul.” It is a four-movement work that incorporates the use of modal scales and harmonies that were commonly used in Medieval and Renaissance music. As the piece progresses, Bloch intersperses melodies from the previous movements with new melodies, reflecting back on what has come before. Ann Mills, violin, and Rich Woessner, cello, join with the
Park ranger, is a talented violinist. She studied both music and biology at Vanderbilt University and has played with a number of orchestras and chamber music groups. She performs regularly on the Peak to Peak series and in venues around Estes Park as a member of the duo, Snowbelt, playing bluegrass, oldtime, and folk music with her husband. Rich Woessner studied cello with members of the Dallas Symphony Orchestra and has played with a number of orchestras, including the Longmont Symphony. He earned degrees in BioChemistry from Rice University and the University of Illinois. He plays in the Estes Park Oratorio Society orchestra and is enjoying the beautiful rich sound of his new cello. Woessner and Wolf premiered Robert Howard’s Sonata for Cello and Piano on a Peak to Peak concert last year.
Don’t Miss The Table Setting/Scaping Event November 16 & 17 At Ember
The Estes Park Museum Friends announces its Eighth Annual Creative Colorado Table Setting/Scaping Event on November 16th and 17th at Ember at the Estes Park Resort.
The tables will be available for viewing on Saturday, November 16th, from 10 a.m. until 5 p.m., and on Sunday, November 17th from 10 a.m. until 3 p.m. We invite you to come and view the creativity and beauty of the tables and enjoy a cup of hot cider and cookies with us.
This year we will be including a robust Silent Auction as part of the event. The Cheryl Pennington picture of the original Stanley Hotel you see here will be a centerpiece of the auction, as well as a limited edition print from Greig Steiner. You will recognize a number of the chinaware and crystal pieces from previous tablesettings donated by the Julie Farnham family, Andy Smith, and other Museum members and supporters. And there will be the ever-popular wine products offered by Candice Mohr and Snowy Peaks Winery and Twin Owls Steakhouse.
At 3 p.m. we will have our awards ceremony and present blue ribbons to the winners of the Formal, Informal, and Freestyle categories.
From the three blue ribbon winners the attendees will vote on their favorite for the $100 Julie Farnham Memorial Award.
The attendees will also vote on the table that they like the best and this individual
will receive the $100 Gladys Van Drie People’s Choice Award.
Registrations are still being accepted until Monday, November 11th. If you have been considering participation, you still have time to reserve a table. This applies to the Non-Competitive as well as the Competitive Tablesettings.
Go to our website: estespark.colorado.gov/museum/programs, select Tablesettings and scroll to the bottom of the page to select Resources.
We would like to thank our current sponsors:
Major Sponsors:
Allnutt Funeral Home
Madison and Marty Casey
Susan Fereday, State Farm Insurance
Organization Sponsors:
The Antiquarians
Colorado Homestead
Elements Of Touch
Ember Restaurant at Estes Park Resort
Estes Park News
Kind Coffee
Peak’s Hallmark Card Shop
Rocky Mountain Chocolate Factory
SereniTEA Tea House
Smith Sign Studio
Snowy Peaks Winery
The Taffy Shop
Twin Owls Steakhouse
Individual Sponsors: Cheryl Pennington
Bobbie Heisterkamp
Marsha Hobert
Phil Moenning
Yvonne and Max Salfinger
Andy Smith
Greig Steiner
Ann Wise
Best of Show 2021
People’s Choice 2021
Stanley Hotel Cheryl Pennington
FALL HOURS
Mondays - Thursdays, 10 a.m. - 8
p.m.
Fridays & Saturdays, 10 a.m. - 5 p.m.
Sundays, 1 - 5 p.m.
Special Hours
Closed Thursday, November 28 & Friday, November 29 in observance of Thanksgiving KEY
Ⓡ: Registration required. Visit calendar.estesvalleylibrary.org to sign up.
BOOKS & AUTHORS
Sobre la migración infantil desde Centroamérica: En conversación con Javier Zamora Ⓡ Sábado, 9 de noviembre, 12 - 1 p.m, en línea
Solamente en Español (only in Spanish): Sintoniza una conversación especial con el autor más vendido del New York Times Javier Zamora mientras conversa con nosotros sobre su fascinante historia de supervivencia y perseverancia, tal como se cuenta en sus memorias premiadas Solito.
Book Club for Mortals: There Is No Good Card For This Ⓡ Thursday, November 14, 10 - 11:30 a.m., Wasson Room & online
Discuss end-of-life issues and our shared mortality. November’s featured title, There Is No Good Card For This, is a thoughtful, instructive guide about how to feel confident in connecting with anyone experiencing grief, loss, illness, or other difficult situations.
What’s Happening At The Estes Valley Library
On Childhood Migration from Central America: Author Talk with Javier Zamora Ⓡ
Thursday, November 14, 2 - 3 p.m., online
Tune in for a special conversation with New York Times bestselling author Javier Zamora as he shares his riveting tale of survival and perseverance as told in his award-winning memoir, Solito. Presented with the Library Speakers Consortium.
Native Rights & Culture in Fiction: Author Talk with Mona Susan Power Ⓡ
Wednesday, November 20, 5 - 6 p.m., online
Mona Susan Power will host a conversation about how her work explores Native Rights and Native American culture in her newest novel, A Council of Dolls. Presented with the Library Speakers Consortium.
ALL AGES
Tech Help with Digital Navigators of Larimer County Ⓡ
Build your digital skills, including using your smartphone, accessing websites and accounts online, improving online communications, and more. Appointments required; sign up at calendar.estesvalleylibrary.org. Service offered in English and Spanish. Presented by AmeriCorps service members.
Community Puzzle Exchange
Saturday, November 9, 1 - 4:30 p.m., Hondius Room
Just in time for cozy winter evenings at home: Exchange your “old” puzzles (ones that you’ve assembled before) for new-to-you puzzles at this openhouse-style event. Puzzles for all ages and of all sizes are welcome as long as they are complete (all pieces, please!) and in good condition.
Hunter Education Course Ⓡ
Sunday, November 10, 1 - 4:30 p.m., Hondius Room
Interested in hunting in Colorado? Join Colorado Parks & Wildlife certified hunter education instructor Eris Audette for the Conclusion Class (the online course must be completed first). All information provided at calendar.estesvalleylibrary.org.
Fall Gnomes Ⓡ
Wednesday, November 13, 10 a.m.12 p.m., Makerspace
Saturday, November 23, 2 - 4:30 p.m., Hondius Room
Play board games including classics like Clue and Candyland, or new games like Blank Slate and Bologna. All ages welcome – bring your family, friends, and neighbors. Snacks and refreshments provided.
Grant Faulkner wrote, “Stories remind us that we are alive, and what being alive means.” Curious about your stories? Join us for a two-session workshop on short-short (sometimes called sudden, flash, or micro) fiction writing, led by retired college writing instructor Pat Nelson.
The Art of Hand Lettering Ⓡ
Saturday, November 16, 10:30 - 11:30 a.m., Makerspace
repeated Friday, November 22, 10:30 - 11:30 a.m., Makerspace
Whether you’re a beginner or looking to refine your skills, join us for a class about the art of beautiful handwriting. We’ll practice techniques in modern calligraphy and lettering. Autumn Tealights Ⓡ
Wednesday, November 20, 10:30 a.m. - 12 p.m., Makerspace
repeated Thursday, November 21, 5:30 - 7 p.m., Makerspace
Use our new Cricut machine to create autumn-themed tealights. Choose a color scheme to match your holiday table or festive décor.
Publishing Pathways Ⓡ
Sunday, November 24, 1:15 - 2:45 p.m., online
This empowering workshop, led by author, editor, teacher, and librarian Gabrielle Esposito, is for aspiring authors seeking insight into the complex world of publishing. Learn how to confidently navigate your publishing journey and achieve your literary goals!
TEENS & KIDS
Make a Lego Sign Ⓡ
Tuesday, November 12, 11 a.m. - 12 p.m., Hondius Room
Wednesday, November 20, 4 - 5 p.m., Makerspace
Explore the history of calligraphy and learn how a glass quill is made. Then, practice your own lettering by penning a note to a friend and enclosing it in a wax-sealed envelope.
Young Chautauqua Club Ⓡ
Thursday, November 14, 4 - 5:15 p.m., Hondius Room
Thursday, November 21, 4 - 5:15 p.m., Hondius Room
Teacher and facilitator Katherine Dumont will lead participants through research about the life, words, and mannerisms of a historical character. Young Chautauqua Club culminates in live, costumed performances in February and March 2025.
KIDS & FAMILIES
Library Storytimes
Baby Storytime: Thurs., Fri., & Sat. at 10 a.m.
Preschool Storytime: Thurs., Fri., & Sat. at 10:30 a.m.
Storybook Explorers: Sat., November 9 at 11:15 a.m.
Read to Therapy Dog Bo: Thurs., November 21 at 11 a.m.
Music & Movement Ⓡ
Saturday, November 16, 11 - 11:30 a.m., Hondius Room
Develop listening and motor skills in this lively, interactive program with music in English and Spanish. Únete a nosotros en este programa interactivo en el que incluiremos bailes, canciones y crearemos ritmo. Incluiremos música tanto en Inglés como en Español, a medida de que desarrollemos nuestras habilidades auditivas y motoras.
MAKERSPACE TRAINING CLASSES
Learn the 3D Printer Ⓡ Monday, November 11, 10 a.m. - 12 p.m.
repeated Monday, November 11, 5:30 - 7 p.m.
For ages 10 and up (participants under the age of 17 must be accompanied by an adult).
Learn the Laser Cutter Ⓡ Monday, November 18, 10 a.m. - 12 p.m.s
repeated Monday, November 18, 5:30 - 7 p.m.
Craft a set of three festive fall gnomes using pre-cut wood forms, craft glue, and acrylic paint. Recommended for adults and teens.
Community Seed Exchange
Friday, November 15, 12:30 p.m., Hondius Room
Drop in for a communitywide seed exchange: bring the seeds you’ve harvested and get some new ones to take home. Gather with gardeners of all skill levels to connect, share, and grow together.
Game Night! Ⓡ
Explore different building and engineering challenges with Legos. This month, create a sign with your name, a greeting, a statement, or whatever you’d like!
Card Making Ⓡ
Tuesday, November 12, 4 - 5 p.m., Makerspace
Practice using papercraft tools like stamps, the embosser, and the Cricut Maker to create specialty cards for your loved ones.
Dungeons & Dragons Ⓡ
Tuesday, November 19, 5:30 - 7:30 p.m., Makerspace
Calling fantasy, gaming, and roleplaying fans: join us for the original Dungeons and Dragons. No experience, purchase, or previous knowledge required. Just bring your imagination! Calligraphy & Wax Seals Ⓡ
For ages 10 and up (participants under the age of 17 must be accompanied by an adult).
LIBRARY BOARD OF TRUSTEES Regular Meeting
Monday, November 18, 6:30 - 8 p.m., Wasson Room
View agenda and packet materials at estesvalleylibrary.org/board.
FRIENDS OF THE LIBRARY FOUNDATION
Cliffhanger Used Books
Cliffhanger Used Books, located next to the Post Office, is operated by the Friends of the Library Foundation, offering gently-used books, movies, and music at discount prices. Open daily from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.
KEY
Ⓡ: Registration required. Visit calendar.estesvalleylibrary.org to sign up.
Saddle Up: Local Readers Have Chosen 2025’S “One Book One Valley” Title
For over a dozen years, the Estes Valley community has made it a tradition to read and discuss a shared book through the annual literary celebration called One Book One Valley. This past September, local readers cast their votes for their favorite among the three 2025 finalists.
And now, next year’s selection is official. The community has chosen a true story: The Ride of Her Life by Elizabeth Letts is the next One Book One Valley title.
In 1954, sixty-three-year-old farmer Annie Wilkins embarked on an impossible journey: She had no money and no family, she had just lost her farm, and her doctor had given her only two years to live. Annie, who wanted to see the Pacific Ocean before she died, bought a cast-off brown gelding named Tarzan, donned men’s dungarees, and headed south in mid-November, hoping to beat the snow. Annie had little idea what to expect beyond her rural crossroads; she didn’t even have a map. She did have her ex-racehorse, her faithful mutt, and her own unfailing belief that Americans would treat a
A New York Times bestseller, The Ride of Her Life is a “heartwarming [and] engaging folk-hero biography” (Kirkus Reviews) of a woman – and her fourlegged companions – who inspired an outpouring of neighborliness in a rapidly changing world. This triumphant story of optimism, courage, and good humor will fill readers with joy, hope, and delight.
Copies of the book are now available at the Library, thanks to generous support from the Friends of the Library Foundation. Stop by the first floor service desk to check one out and start reading! In January, join us for themed One Book One Valley programs, including a culminating visit from author Elizabeth Letts herself.
Thanks to all who cast your votes for the 2025 title, and thank you to our “One Book” committee, composed of Library staff and book-loving community volunteers. Stay tuned for more One Book One Valley information, and plan to join us in celebrating literacy, community, and storytelling through the shared reading of a single title.
Spark Hope, Confidence, Generosity, Joy
You can make the holiday season brigher for local youth with a donation to The Spark Campaign. All gifts help us provide high-quality mentoring and prevention education support for youth who need it most, helping them build confidence, make healthy choices, and uncover their full potential.
Early Birds Can Now Request Free 2025 Meeting Space
The Early Bird booking window at the Estes Valley Library is officially open! Local meeting planners can now submit their 2025 dates for HOA meetings, book clubs, service club gatherings, gaming nights, and other group meeting needs.
Now through Monday, November 18, patrons should visit estesvalleylibrary.org/earlybird to request their meeting room dates for 2025. Once the Early Bird period closes, Library staff will process all requests with the intention of accommodating as many patrons as possible. Our team will reach out to and work
directly with patrons who don’t get their first or alternate choices – and we’ll help you find suitable space, dates, and times.
Confirmations will be sent by November 21 and after that, patrons who didn’t participate in Early Bird can book online per usual. In other words, this isn’t the only time to book library meeting space, but Early Bird does give first crack at the upcoming year! Learn more about what the library offers for meeting rooms and other spaces, and submit your requests for 2025 dates, at estesvalleylibrary.org/earlybird.
Free Tax-Aide Service Seeking Volunteers For A Variety Of Roles
Since 2005, the Estes Valley Library has partnered with Tax-Aide to host this valuable service to our community. Tax-Aide is sponsored by the AARP Foundation.
Neither AARP membership nor senior citizen age is required to be a volunteer team member or to receive the tax-preparation service. There are about 20 volunteers which allows for flexible volunteer scheduling. This past tax season over 470 free federal tax returns were filed, most electronically. Not every volunteer has to prepare tax returns, although most do. Other roles needed are:
the complexity of returns we are allowed to do and selects our software (which currently is TaxSlayer®). Training will be provided to build competency with the software and familiarity with helpful resources. Ex-
perienced mentors are always present to assist in training and actual tax preparation.
• Appointment Facilitator – greet clients and review tax documents at beginning of appointment;
• Technology Assistance – ensure computers, printers and Wi-Fi equipment are working properly.
Many new volunteers interested in tax preparation have prepared their own taxes using software such as Turbo Tax® and feel they have enough knowledge to assist others. The IRS restricts
New volunteers will be invited to a one-day orientation in early December 2024 at the Library. Training for all new and returning volunteers will take place at the Library over five days between January 13 and January 18, 2025, from 10 a.m. – 4 p.m. each day. Additional training will be provided as needed to prepare volunteers to meet IRS and Tax-Aide requirements for completing correct federal and Colorado returns.
For additional information, contact Local Coordinator Lori Hendrickson via email at estesvalleytaxes@gmail.com, or by telephone at (970) 480-7225.
stranger with kindness.
Well, we’ve voted…after a long period of political ads filled with promises, truths, half-truths, and downright lies, shared by the candidates, their friends and allies, and the media. I suspect that you are, like I am, very tired of having to sort through it all, before making our decision and letting that decision be known, hoping that the decision having been made, will now be accepted, and we can get on with our national / individual lives.
One of the worst things about this particular election time is the way that it has made almost all people feel, at times, anger, animosity, hostility, the list goes on. One of the heaviest things many of us are feeling is guilt about the negative, even very angry, feelings we have over the way that some candidates act or speak during their campaigns. The Lord said, “Judge not that you be not judged!” (Matt. 7:1)…but it also says: “Judge righteous judgment.” (Jn. 7:24). The reality is that people trying to do what is right and teach our families and others what is right cannot help abhorring things that people do that are abhorrent. A recent devotional leader I highly respect said it well. Quoting the Psalmist, he says: “Hot indignation seizes me because of the wicked who forsake your law” (Psa. 119:53) He continues: “My soul, do you feel this holy trembling at the sins of others? For, if you do not, you lack inward holiness. David’s cheeks were wet with rivers of water because of prevailing unholiness. Jeremiah desired eyes like fountains that he might lament the iniquities of Israel, and Lot was deeply troubled by the conduct of the men of Sodom. Those upon whom the mark was set in Ezekiel’s vision were those who sighed and cried for the sins of Jerusalem.” David Jeremiah concludes: “Gracious souls cannot help but be grieved to see what pains men take to go to hell.” So, quell any guilt feelings you feel when you see anyone act in ways that are hypocritical or in other ways show disdain for decency and God’s law and way of life. If you are God’s person, you will ‘judge righteous judgment.’
But, when the results of the election are analyzed and revealed we will accept those results…It is what it is! History is filled with stories of those who ‘shook their fist’ in the face of God and others when things didn’t turn out their way. ‘Bad things happen’ to even good people, but good people will accept those realities and deal with them as well as they can. In the Bible, David’s infant son passed away. While he was alive, David fasted and prayed for the child. When the child died, despite David’s deep grief and sadness, his calmness amazed his friends. David explained his acceptance of his loss, “I will go to him, he cannot come to me!” (II Sam. 12:22) There are some things that we can change…and we should…and some that we cannot. We need to learn to accept those, even unpleasant things. We usually suffer for our failure to do so. I remember hearing about people who ‘spit into the wind’…and laughed as I imagined the end result. So, what can we do? God’s Word has some good advice for us to keep in mind and practice. “I urge, then, first of all, that prayers, requests, intercessions, and thanksgivings, be made for all men – for kings and all that are in authority, that we may live peaceful and quiet lives in all godliness and holiness. This is good and pleases God our Savior.” (II Tim. 2:1-3) During the time in which we prepared to cast our votes I hope we were praying that God’s will would be done in the matter. We should continue that prayer for the leadership of those who were chosen…and then, be citizens who honor God, our leaders, and our country, in coming days. Like you, I am pledged to ‘One nation under God, indivisible, with liberty and justice for all!’ God bless our USA! Bob Lewis
Inflation-Fighting Strategies For Retirees
At different times, inflation may be high or low, but, except in those rare periods of deflation, it’s always with us. During your working years, when you may receive boosts in your salary, you at least have the potential to keep up with inflation — but what happens when you retire? As a retiree, what can you do to cope with the rising cost of living?
Here are a few suggestions: • Keep some growth potential in your investment portfolio. During your retirement years, you may want to move your portfolio toward a somewhat more conservative approach by owning investments that offer significant protection of principal. However, these same investments offer little in the way of growth, which means they are susceptible to inflation. Consequently, you’ll also need to own a reasonable amount in growth-oriented investments, such as stocks and stock-based securities. Of course, these investments will fluctuate in value as the financial markets move up and down, but by owning some more conservative investments, you can reduce the overall impact of market volatility on your portfolio.
• Consider inflation-adjusted bonds. You might want to consider Treasury Inflation-Protected Securities (TIPS), which are indexed to the Consumer Price Index, so the principal increases with inflation (and decreases with deflation). Another inflation-adjusted Treasury security is the I bond, which differs from TIPS in that the principal doesn’t change but the interest rate does, every six months, based on a combination of a fixed interest rate and the inflation rate. Like all investments, though, TIPS and I bonds have various features and risks of which you should be aware before investing.
• Delay taking Social Security. You can start collecting Social Security benefits at 62, but your monthly checks will be much bigger if you wait until your full retirement age, likely between 66 and 67. You would receive the maximum amount if you waited until 70 before collecting. Of course, if you need the money to help support your retirement, you may not be able to afford to wait, but if you can, your bigger checks can be a big help against inflation.
• Don’t hold too much cash. During your working years, it’s a good idea to have an emergency fund containing several months’ worth of living expenses in liquid, low-risk accounts. And when you’re retired, you might want to have up to year’s worth of expenses in such a fund. But be careful about holding too much cash, as it will lose purchasing power each year due to inflation. Instead, when keeping cash, seek the “Goldilocks” solution — not too little, not too much, but just the right amount.
• Think about extending your employment. If you like what you do, you might want to consider working a few years longer than you had originally intended. Not only will you be bringing in more income, but you could also continue to contribute to retirement accounts, including your IRA and 401(k). Even if you don’t want to continue working full time, you could do some part-time work or consulting. Any earned income you bring in can help in your fight against inflation. You can’t control the cost of living, but by making some of the moves described above, you can help yourself mount a defense against the effects of inflation during your retirement years. This article was written by Edward Jones for use by our local Edward Jones Financial Advisors.
Social-Memory Café
November 14 In Estes Park
Memory Café is a free, relaxed, social gathering for anyone in the Estes Valley community who experiencing memory loss due to any form or stage of dementia, together with a partner, family member, friend or caregiver. If you are living and driving independently, feel free to come on your own. We meet at St. Bartholomew’s Church (880 MacGregor Ave.) from 10:00 – 11:30 (second Thursday of every month).
We stimulate engagement (and laughter), attention and memory by enjoying coffee/snacks, conversation, singing, and sharing memories together through games and activities in a non-stressful atmosphere. Research and the medical community encourage fun, social activity for all of us but this can be espe-
cially helpful for those with memory loss and those who care about them. This month’s Social-Memory Café will be Thursday, November . We will be Giving Thanks throughout the morning of snacks, singing, games and activities. Whether you have come to the SocialMemory Café before or want to join us for the first time, you are welcome! We look forward to seeing you at St. Bartholomew’s Church (880 MacGregor Ave.) Thursday, November 14th from 10:00 – 11:30. For more information or if you are new to our Social-Memory Café, please call St. Bart’s church at 970-586-4504 or Jane (S-MC coordinator) at 970430-8105.
The Life And Times Of Wildlife Conservation In
Join us for a presentation and conversation on Wildlife Conservation with Gary Miller at the Estes Park Senior Citizens Center (EPSCC) on Tuesday, November 12, from 12:00 p.m.-1:00 p.m., 1760 Olympian Lane. Light refreshments will be served, Attendees are welcome to bring or buy their lunch – see details below.
The United States
“For one species to mourn the death of another is a new thing under the sun.” So wrote Aldo Leopold in the conservation classic, “A Sand County Almanac.” Although first published in 1949, it was not until the 1960s/early 70s when those essays, along with books such as Rachel Carson’s “Silent Spring,” grabbed the nation’s attention and helped give rise to the conservation movement in this country. However, for many years preceding that upsurge in environmental awareness and activism, many other people, often little-known, had laid the groundwork for that movement.
In the 50-plus years since that time many others, with the issues they identified and the scientific progress they’ve made, have driven the evolution of conservation, specifically wildlife conservation, in the United States and our own Colorado. This discussion will cover the historical and more contemporary milestones and “heroes” of wildlife conservation that have brought us to today’s understanding of the importance of conserving wildlife species, and the advances in knowledge of
methods by which this may be accomplished. Examples from Colorado’s wildlife story, including Canada lynx, grey wolf restoration, and future wolverine re-
storation, will help illustrate those advances and challenges.
Wildlife biologist Gary Miller is the former statewide ecologist for the Colorado Division of Wildlife (now Colorado Parks and Wildlife), who also served as a research scientist and research leader with that agency. He also worked for the National Park Service at Shenandoah, Isle Royale, and Rocky Mountain National Parks. He was the principal field biologist implementing RMNP’s Elk and Vegetation Management Plan in its early years. Attendees are welcome to bring their lunch or pre-purchase a hot meal by placing an order before 1:00 p.m. on Monday, November 11. For this event, the Senior Center will be serving fried chicken with mashed potatoes, gravy, and vegetables. The cost is $7 for EPSCC members and $11 for nonmembers. If you become an EPSCC member for just $35 per year, you will not only enjoy meal discounts but also gain access to all the amazing activities. For more information about the EPSCC or to order a meal for the program, please call the Senior Center at (970) 581-2195.
Low Vision Program Hosted By Aspen Club November 13
The Ensight Skills Center provides people with low vision the services and resources that empowers independent and productive living. Come join Melody from Ensight to learn about eye diseases, low vision, as well as tips and ways to navigate life with vision loss. Bring any questions you might
Estes Park Senior Citizens
Center Menu
Nov 11 – 15
Monday, Nov 11 Breakfast Croissant (scrambled eggs w/ cheese topped w/ ham), Hashbrowns & fruit
Meals are $7 for current 2024 EP Senior Citizens Center members and are by reservation only. (Or 3 meals for $20; use pre-paid meal tickets.) Exact cash or check payment required. Reservations must be made by 1:00 PM at least one business day in advance. Note, if you want to reserve a meal for Monday, Nov 11th, you need to call before 1:00 PM on Friday, Nov 8th. For reservations call 970-581-2195 and leave a detailed message. Pre-paid meal tickets and membership forms are available at the Estes Park Senior Citizens Center located at 1760 Olympian Lane.
The Center is OPEN Monday thru Friday 10 – 1
TriFit M-W-F 10:30-11:15 AM
Circuit Balance Monday 1-1:45 PM Fluid Movement Tuesday 10:30–11:15 AM
Two Bridge Groups: 1st, 3rd, & 5th Wednesday of the month & Every Thursday 12:30 – 4:30 PM
Reserved Meals-to-Go delivered to your vehicle or EAT at the Senior Citizens Center Check out our website: estesparkseniors.org or call for the latest information
have regarding low vision and/or eye diseases.
Estes Park 12:30-2:00 p.m.
Wednesday, November 13
Estes Park Senior Citizen’s Center Registration required by calling Aspen Club, 970-495-8560.
One of the first Canada lynx litters from the Colorado reintroduction in the early 2000s.
5th Annual Holiday Shoppe At The Old Gallery In Allenspark
It’s not too early to begin making a list and checking it twice, thanks to the 5th Annual Holiday Shoppe at The Old Gallery in Allenspark. Beginning Saturday, November 2, you are able to find unique, memorable and handmade gifts every Saturday and Sunday through December 22, including a special shopping day on Black Friday, November 29. The Old Gallery will be open from 10 a.m.- 4 p.m.
Thoughtful and unique gifts include handmade ornaments, paintings, jewelry, ceramic and glass holiday decorations, cards, calendars, yarn, holiday signs, artisan soaps, specialty teas, candles and fabric goods. Twenty-seven local and regional artisans have been hard at work creating these special gifts for the holiday season. There will be offerings from several guest artists during the Holiday Shoppe this year as well.
Ceramic Artist Heather Kegel said, “As a potter, getting ready for the holi-
days always starts early, at the end of the summer. October is kind of a blur and is always so busy, but come November, it’s worth the hustle and bustle when I see all of the beautiful things I’ve created!”
On Black Friday, shoppers can enjoy a complimentary hot cocoa bar and donuts, while they last. That Saturday shoppers will enjoy free cookies and can get their purchases gift wrapped for a donation to the Community Cupboard Food Bank that serves the mountain community.
Located at 14863 Highway 7 at the entrance to Allenspark, The Old Gallery is 20 minutes south of Estes Park and 20 minutes from Lyons. It’s a beautifully renovated 1940s log structure that is a non-profit center for community, art and visitors. The Old Gallery provides art, education, entertainment and social services to area residents and visitors, including the Community Cupboard Food Bank, Community
Closet, art and yoga classes, concerts, potlucks and more.
“The Old Gallery really captures the spirit of this mountain community. It’s
a beautiful place for our artists to display and sell their work and a unique spot to find one-of-a-kind holiday gifts,” said The Old Gallery Artists’s Communication Coop Julie Neri.
Health Career Exploration Fair At Estes Park High School
On Wednesday November 13th from 2:30-6:00 p.m., Estes Park High School will be hosting the You Are The Cure health careers exploration fair for students and the community. Exhibitors from a variety of health career fields will share resources related to career pathways and engage attendees in interactive career exploration. See below for details.
Help Decorate Stanley Home Museum With Toys From The Past
Help us decorate the Stanley Home Museum for its annual Yuletide Holiday Open House December 14 and 15. Our theme this year is “Toys from the Past.” Do you have an Erector Set, Lincoln Logs, Slinky, Shirley Temple or Raggedy Ann doll, a vintage Teddy Bear, Monopoly game or a jack in the box? What toys might you still have in the
back of a closet or in the attic?
You can be part of this celebration by allowing us to borrow your favorite toys from the early to mid-1900s
The toys will be on display in each room for viewing only, no touching.
Our museum staff will watch over and handle these borrowed toys carefully, understanding that they are precious items.
Think of how much fun it will be to take those toys out of storage, rekindle happy memories of playtime, and share that joy with visitors at this Yuletide event.
If you or anyone you know has toys that we may borrow for our twoday Yuletide Holiday Open House, please contact JoAnn Batey (713)299-2584 or joannbatey@gmail.com
THE GOMEZ TEAM
Award-Winning Singer/Songwriter Mike P. Ryan At The Legion
Born and raised in Oklahoma, Mike P. Ryan draws on his humble roots and uses his keen eye for detail to craft heartfelt songs about the struggles and triumphs of everyday life. Mike’s smooth, clear vocal style is regularly compared to classic Singer/Songwriters like James Taylor and Jackson Browne while his evocative lyrics reflect the influences of lyrical wordsmiths like Robert Earl Keen, Jason Isbell, and James McMurtry. A veteran himself, Mike will perform for us on Veterans' Day - Monday, November 11 at 6:00 p.m. at American Legion Post 119. All veterans are invited to attend free of charge. For the rest of us, tickets are available online at
legionlisten.org/mike-p-ryan and in person at Post 119 (850 N. St. Vrain Ave.).
This event is part of "Listening at the Legion", a budget minded concert series that brings nationally acclaimed music creators and performers to our little town. Please visit legionlisten.org to learn more.
the INSPIREDLIVING group
Nicole White, REALTOR - 2023 Realtor of the Year Nicole@TheInspiredLivingGroup.com - 970-567-9971
Alison Gilbert, REALTOR - 2022 Realtor of the Year Alison@TheInspiredLivingGroup.com - 970-227-0561
Inspiring Others to Live Their Dream in Estes Park FindEstesParkHomes.com
Photo by Marsha Hobert
Estes Park Health Introduces New Occupational Therapist
When people stay in the hospital after injury, illness, or surgery, the Occupational Therapist (OT) is the professional who makes sure these patients can go home and get around their house again. The OT has a very practical job: making sure people can cook, clean, shower, get dressed, and many other activities of daily living.
Inna Wines is the newest inpatient OT on the medical/surgical unit at Estes Park Health.
“My family and I have been coming to Estes Park since I was born,” Wines explained.
“Every year there were family reunions, family vacations. I knew that eventually I wanted to move to Colorado. I wasn’t sure it would be Estes Park specifically. It all just kind of worked out. In June, I was here for a girls’ trip. I decided, ‘I don’t want to leave. I want to stay. I want to figure out how to live here.’ I quit my job. I applied for new jobs and luckily found housing. My manager at EPH called and asked if I wanted a full-time job. I said, ‘Yes. That would be amazing.’”
“I really got to see what they did, how it contributed to his life, how it changed the way he was able to socially interact with people.”
Wines originally thought she would go into pediatric OT because of her experience with her bother. But she did an acute care rotation in Dallas (where she is from) and fell in love with the geriatric population.
She earned her undergraduate degree in Public Health from the University of Arkansas. She went to Abilene Christian University (ACU) in West Texas for her master’s degree in occupational therapy. Before she moved to Estes Park, she worked at UT Southwestern in Texas for the last three years.
“I kind of got burned out just because I was seeing lots and lots of people throughout the day,” Wines stated. “I just knew I wanted a change.”
Wines moved to Estes Park two months ago. She has enjoyed the slower pace, and what she describes as a good work/life balance.
“I grew up always knowing that I wanted to do some sort of service for others,” Wines said. “I wasn’t sure exactly what it was going to be. Healthcare always spoke to me.”
Wines and her brother were adopted from Russia. He has a lot of sensory issues and developmental issues and went to occupational therapy, physical therapy, and speech therapy growing up.
“He wouldn’t participate in his therapy unless I was part of it,” she noted.
Since starting at EPH, Wines has helped many kinds of patients, from tourists who have been hiking and have fallen and hurt themselves to people who need hip or knee replacement surgery. Wines also works with medication management and help patients with fine motor skills.
“The big focus is making sure everyone can get home,” Wines emphasized.
“But if they can’t, OTs provide social workers, doctors, and nurses the information they need to decide if a patient needs to go to a skilled nursing facility, a nursing home, or assisted living.”
The goal of Occupational Therapy is consistent, to keep everybody as independent as possible.
To listen to a podcast featuring Inna Wines, go to tinyurl.com/48bsns9z.
Simply, Spectacular...
Simply the best in architecture and design welcomes you as soon as you enter the drive to this magnificent mountain home in highly desirable Windcliff Estates. Simply the best in form, function and finish awaits as you step inside to 5160sf of luxurious & functional space across a very private 1.2-acre site.
Simply the best panoramic views of 13 snow-capped peaks and into Rocky Mountain National Park, just steps from your front door...
Presenting 1740 Windcliff Drive, simply spectacular at $2,195,000.
Inna Wines is Estes Park Health's new Occupational Therapist. Photo by Wendy Rigby/Estes Park Health
The “Great Divide”
By: Larry Strong
Most of us know what the Great Divide is. It’s pretty much what we live on. It’s also known as the Continental Divide, a mountain range that separates the watersheds of the Atlantic and Pacific Oceans. Unless one has been living in a cave we also know what the other “Great Divide” is. It’s pretty much where we live IN—the United States of America. By the time this edition of the EP News is distributed Friday, it’s most likely (but not entirely guaranteed) we will know who the 47 Roughly half the people who voted aren’t gonna be doing double back flips about the outcome. Regardless of which side of the political spectrum you’re on, the “great divide” we find ourselves living in doesn’t look like it’s gonna be healed anytime soon. Is it possible we will end up with a” Uniter in Chief?” I’m not sure what the odds in Vegas are for that happening. Nor would I trust those odds.
fortress, my God, in whom I trust.” A refuge or fortress is a shelter that protects a person and keeps them safe from harm. For followers of Christ, God is our refuge, our safe place, when we trust Him. But there’s a catch. When we don’t trust Him and don’t confidently expect Him to be true to His Word and all that He is, then God isn’t our refuge. Something else is. Whom or what are you trusting today?
The guys who hang out at Men on Fire (MOF) are about as diverse as it comes. Our political and personal faith journeys are all over the place. I am frequently asked how a bunch of guys like us can meet every Saturday and not end up bickering and taking offense at another guy’s perspectives and beliefs. While there’s more than one answer, the one I can vouch for is this; we put our hope, confidence and trust in a much higher Source than a political party or cultural icon. Are all of our guys gonna be happy about the outcome of the election?
Nope. But since we’re all striving to “dwell in the shelter of the Most High” we’re gonna be just fine.
Speaking of trust, the words, “In God We Trust” first showed up on our currency in 1864. Honestly, I’m a tad surprised the cultural and political machines haven’t found a way to eradicate those words. For many, those words don’t ring true and are, in fact, an affront to their god of diversity, equity and inclusion. While many would argue DEI has become a source of division, exclusion and iniquity, I think the larger question before us today is simply this—whom or what do we trust?
Some might find it small minded, absurd or offensive to suggest we actually consider taking the words, “In God We Trust” seriously. Since I’m unashamed, here goes.
Psalm 91:1-2 says, “He who dwells in the shelter of the Most High will abide in the shadow of the Almighty. I will say to the Lord, “My refuge and my
MOF meets at the American Legion Saturday at 8:00 a.m. We’re a rag-tag brotherhood of men who have figured out putting trust, hope and confidence in anyone else besides the Lord is tenuous at best. We’re as political as the next guy, maybe more so. But we’re not gonna count on a political party for our source of emotional or spiritual well-being the next for years…or next four days for that matter. What we will be doing is praying for God’s hand to lead, guide and direct whomever 47 is. And we will definitely be praying for 47 to be smart enough and humble enough to pay attention. Join us this Saturday, 850 N. St. Vrain at 8:00 a.m. No matter where you’re at on your life, faith or political journey, you’ll be welcomed, accepted and encouraged. Looking to re-calibrate where you place your trust? See you Saturday.
Thursday Bridge Notes:
Dark Days Revisited
August 24 was another expensive day for the beleaguered manager of PM game. Jeanne Hounshell once again scored two small slams, this time with Rich Blum and Pete Hogue. Jim Meyer also put the unnamed scoundrel in a slam that even he or she was unable to mess up. Table winners included Pete Hogue, who also exceeded the 5,000 mark, Steve Ryland, the unnamed scoundrel and Charlie Hanched who joined the game for the first time. Neither Bill Solms nor Wendy Ulfers minded the fact that they went home
empty handed, as they took home the money for the Tuesday game, largely as a result of nailing the unknown scoundrel with a 1700 point set. Both wondered why their reward wasn’t even more.
We’re always looking for more players who just want to have some fun and meet some neat folks. Free lessons are available for anyone, whether they want to play or not. Call 970-581-3505 or 970-581-2195 for information. The bridge noter
Noon Rotary Funds EPHS Students’ Retaining Wall Project At Middle School
On October 28, the Rotary Club of Estes Park (“Noon Rotary”) and its Foundation donated the cost of materials for a retaining wall at Estes Park Middle School to the high school class that is going to build that wall.
The problem - dirt, sand, and gravel wash down onto the sidewalk in front of the Middle School after every rain or snow. Wind erodes the sloped embankment even when it is dry. This has been going on for years.
Three students in Erica Davis’s Principles of Construction class at Estes Park High School - sophomore Isaac Kinley, and juniors Adair Arvizu Rojas and Fernando Garcia-Leon – stepped up to design and build a retaining wall as a class project to fix the problem. Isaac and Adair already run a landscaping business outside of school called A&I Landscaping, and Fernando works for Cornerstone Concrete, LTD, which has given them all advanced skills in construction and landscaping.
Collaborating with Davis and EPHS Principal Sonja Greenway, the students drafted a plan and cost estimate and participated in several planning meet-
ings to refine their approach.
Next came writing a grant proposal. Then Park Supply agreed to be the source of the materials, and Noon Rotary donated funds. The project was on its way. With the students’ work already underway, the wall should be completed within a month or so, depending on the weather.
Have you been looking for a way to join with others to make your town the best it can be? Then perhaps Rotary could be your place to make a difference.
Rotary is a non-denominational, nonpolitical, inclusive network of over 1.4 million members in more than 46,000 clubs worldwide. Rotary aims to promote peace, goodwill, and understanding through service to others. The Rotary motto is “Service Above Self.”
The Rotary Club of Estes Park meets on the first four Thursdays of every month at 11:30 a.m. at the American Legion, and our meetings and service projects are the perfect place to find your service community. New members are always welcome. Learn more by contacting us at estesrotarymembership@gmail.com.
Remember When? Send Cards To Jack!
It's time to send memory thoughts, whether sad or hilarious, to remind Jack Gartner of the good old days working here in the Estes Valley. The days of working at Brodie's, Rocky Mountain National Park, Park R-3 School district, Rooftop Rodeo, Larimer County Posse, EP Gun & Archery Club, SASS, truck driving and hunting. Can you think of other venues where you have met Jack? Working at Rocky Mountain National Park for 35 plus years and his trail crew, comes to mind first.
Jack will be turning 88 this December, so send him a card saying you are thinking of him now. We need to share our memories while we can enjoy them.
Barry Hannigan (President, Rotary Club of Estes Park Foundation), Isaac Kinley, Annie Slack (President, Rotary Club of Estes Park), Adair Arvizu Rojas, Fernando GarciaLeon, Beth Weisberg (Director of Community Service, Rotary Club of Estes Park).
Free Wellness Fair This Saturday At The Community Center
The Estes Valley Recreation and Park District is hosting a free Wellness Fair this Saturday, November 9, from 9 a.m. to noon in the lower level of the Community Center. Sponsored by Estes Park Health and Salud Family Health, this event offers Estes Park residents a chance to connect with valuable health resources available in Estes Park and Larimer County.
Wendy Rigby, Marketing and Communication Specialist at Estes Park Health, stated, "Estes Park Health is
happy to partner with EVRPD and Salud to provide important information about staying healthy! Wellness is more than just a manageable goal; it's a lifestyle. We hope people will take this opportunity to learn about the many ways they can maintain their physical, mental, emotional, and spiritual wellbeing."
We hope to see you there! For more information, please contact julie@evrpd.com.
AA
Every Monday night at the Town Hall at 6:30 p.m.
Early Worms
Monday thru Saturday at 7:00 a.m. (Monday through Saturday hybrid meetings with Zoom #796 839 839 PW:Worms20) at St. Bartholomew Church, 880 MacGregor Ave.
Early Worms Women's Meeting
12 p.m. Mondays
St. Bartholomew, 880 MacGregor Ave.
Mixed Nuts Al-Anon Group
We meet Friday from 6:30-7:30 p.m. at St. Bartholomew Church. The meeting is hybrid with Zoom #285 426 3644 PW: serenity.
One Day at a Time
Christian Church Of Estes Park To Celebrate 30 Years Of Community And Faith
The Christian Church of Estes Park (CCEP) is thrilled to announce its 30th-anniversary celebration, marking three decades of community, service, and spiritual growth. Founded in 1994, CCEP began with a small group of believers meeting in a local hotel conference room, united by prayer and a shared vision. Today, the church has flourished into a loving congregation of over 200 people who gather each Sunday to worship and engage in a wide variety of ministries that focus on strengthening families, community outreach, and helping others become disciples of Jesus.
To commemorate this milestone, CCEP will hold a special combined service on Sunday, November 10, at 10:00 a.m. This unique gathering will celebrate not only the church’s journey but also honor the commitment and contributions of key community leaders who have served Estes Park.
The church aims to foster a spirit of gratitude for the broader community and recognize the vital role that these leaders play in making Estes Park a place of connection and care.
"Our mission has always been to impact our community in meaningful ways by living out the teachings of Jesus," says Lead Pastor Aaron Dorman. "We’re incredibly grateful to have journeyed these thirty years together,
AA & Al-Anon Meetings
Location: Presbyterian Community Church of the Rockies, 1700 Brodie Ave., Estes Park
Tuesday Noon Open discussion
Meets downstairs in Room 6
Park in the lower level parking lot
Thursday 6:30 p.m. Open discussion
Meets upstairs in the lounge.
Park upstairs by the main entrance of the church.
Alcoholics Anonymous Fall River Group, 453 West Elkhorn, Estes Park.
Current Schedule for 2024
Zoom ID 999 829166 for AA Meetings
Monday-12 p.m.-In Person-O, D Monday-7 p.m.-In Person and ZoomO, BB
Tuesday-12 p.m.-Zoom-O, D
Wednesday-12 p.m.-In Person and Zoom-O, D
Wednesday-7 p.m.-In Person and Zoom- O, D
Thursday -12 p.m. Zoom-O, D
Friday-12 p.m.-In Person and ZoomO, D
Saturday-12 p.m.-In Person and Zoom-O, D
Sunday -12 p.m.-In Person and Zoom-O, D
Last Friday of each month is birthday night; 6 p.m. Potluck, 7 p.m. Speaker. *** Contribute via VENMO @ EstesCowboy
Other 12 Step Meetings Held at Fall River Group
serving alongside one another, and we look forward to what God has in store for us as we continue to grow in faith and service."
As CCEP looks forward, it remains committed to deepening relationships within the church and community and reaching out with a heart for service. This anniversary is a celebration of the church's steadfast commitment to these values and a reflection on how they have shaped the lives of its members and the community of Estes Park.
Everyone is invited to attend the celebration, which will take place at the Christian Church of Estes Park, located at 4655 US Highway 36, Estes Park, Colorado.
About The Christian Church of Estes Park
The Christian Church of Estes Park (CCEP) is a non-denominational Christian church located in Estes Park, Colorado, that seeks to build generational, transformational disciples of Jesus. Through meaningful worship, community outreach, and enriching programs, the church invites all to join its mission of love and service rooted in Christ.
For more information, please contact the Christian Church of Estes Park at office@ccep.life or visit their website at ccep.life.
Thursday-7 p.m.-Narcotics Anonymous “New Horizons” Group O, D-In Person and Zoom 705 555 830 **O=open to all D=discussion
BB=Big Book
Zoom Meetings-Everyday at noon Zoom #999 829 166 (no password needed).
Monday Zoom Big Book study at 7 p.m. #654 598 884 (no password needed).
Wednesdays at 7 p.m. Zoom #999 829 166
Online AA and NA Meetings at www.intherooms.com
There are 70 AA Meetings and 30 NA Meetings a week.
of Glen Haven
Winter Approaches At St. Francis Of Assisi Anglican Church
By: Bishop Owen Williams
In the Anglican Church Calendar, we are about to enter the New Year with the beginning of the Advent Season. This year, the First Sunday in Advent falls on December 1st. Contrary to the popular current culture, it is not the beginning of the Christmas Season. The Church’s “Christmas Season” begins on December 24th after sunset. Advent is a season of preparation… Preparation for the Second Coming of our Lord and Saviour, Jesus Christ. However, we can already see the stores have put away the Halloween Decorations and have begun to put out the Thanksgiving cornucopia baskets of dried corn and assorted gourds. Yes, we are even beginning to put up Christmas lights and decorate our houses. Well, that only makes sense… putting up the lights before the snow is waist-deep.
Historically, it appears that the birth of Christ was officially accepted in the Roman Empire around 336 Anno Domine, and the date of His birth was settled as December 25th. Many scholars and various other Christian bodies have come up with various alternative dates.
What is important is the fact that God incarnate, Jesus Christ, was born into this world. His mission was to save us from ourselves. He took the burden and the punishment upon Himself for
our crimes and offenses. This is the mystery of faith which Christ Himself taught to His Apostles and those who believe in Him. This is what has been handed down to us, in the life of the Church and The Bible. This is a matter of life and death. Or, from a Christian’s viewpoint, life after death. During Advent, we look toward the time when Jesus Christ will come again to judge Creation. We know not the date or time, so we must be ready. As we go about our usual seasonal chores and traditions, whether shopping in a crowded store or shoveling out a neighbor’s driveway, we are also preparing for Jesus’ Second Coming. Now is when our faith is tried. As Jesus said to the woman in Luke 7:50, “Thy faith hath saved thee; go in peace.”
Known as “The Little Church in the Woods,” St. Francis Church is a Traditional, Apostolic and Evangelistic Christian church nestled in the midst of the pines and aspens in Little Valley. The church is located at 3480 St. Francis Way, Estes Park, CO 80517. Turn from Fish Creek Rd. onto Little Valley Rd. and follow the signs to St. Francis. If you have any questions, please call Bishop Williams at (970) 577-0601.
Please join us every Sunday for the Service of Holy Communion at 9:30 a.m. (Morning Prayer is offered at 9 a.m.). And see our Website at stfrancisestespark.com.
Through your generous support we are able to keep programming like our monthly Family Night ongoing. Consider donating today! Thank you
Order Your Delicious Butter Braids To Support HOSA
The Estes Park High School HOSA Future Health Professionals chapter is having a Butter Braid sale! HOSA is a high school chapter of a national career and technical student organization for students aiming to become future health professionals. This is our first fundraiser of the year and the funds go towards paying student dues, but most importantly giving us financial aid for our State Leadership Conference. We use the majority of the funds so that we are able to attend and compete in the HOSA State Leadership Conference where students can test and compete in
different areas of Health Science. Our sale ends on November 8. Butter braids will be delivered November 18, help support our HOSA!
● If you would like to get involved, visit their team page to donate https://fundraise.nmdp.org/team/7629
● Or if you want to join the registry:
○ Text HOSAEPHS to 61474
○ https://my.nmdp.org/HOSAEPHS
● If you are under 18, you can preregister with keyword HOSAEPHS and they will remind you when you turn 18, so you can sign up then.
Crossroads Extends Thanks
By: Brian Schaffer
In 2014, Andy Morgan had an incredible idea to host an event at his restaurant, the Dunraven, as a way of raising funds for Crossroads. The way it worked is Andy and Cindy would organize everything from the food, drinks, and servers to pull off our biggest event in the history of Crossroads. This annual event called Vintage has grown over the last 10 years, so their legacy lives on even though the Dunraven is no longer the host of this special event. This year’s event was definitely different, but nonetheless it was very successful in raising a significant amount of money for our neighbors in need. We are so grateful to Andy and Cindy Morgan for the 10+ years they hosted this event as a way to support the work we’re doing in the community. We decided to go back to a familiar place for this year’s event which was held at Ember Restaurant. Our Vintage committee members put in many hours to secure items for the auction, promoting the event, collecting everything, organizing all the details and then showing up to put it all together. Our hearts are full of gratitude to everyone who participated in this year’s event! We had around 175 people in attendance and were able to raise enough money to support 20% of our operating budget for the year. It’s amazing what can happen when people come together to meet the needs of their neighbors.
Big Horn Restaurant
Bird & Jim
CABINtique
Cinnamon’s Bakery
Dave Landers
Deborah Schaffer
Dee Dee Hampton
Ember Restaurant & Bar
Egg of Estes
Estes Park Pet Supply
Estes Valley Park & Recreation District
First Colorado Realty, Breeyan Ed-
wards
Glacier Lily
Himalayan Curry & Kebob
Hogsback Distillery
Images of RMNP
Joanie Jonell
John Lynch
Kirt and Cindy Kirtland
Larado Whiskey
Longhorn Liquor
Lumpy Ridge Brewing Co
Mad Moose
Mama Rose’s Restaurant
Mary Jane’s
McClain Construction
Melissa Castro
Michael Watchman
Mountain Shop
Mountain Home Café
Patterson Glassworks Studio
Many Thanks to:
Founders and Legacy Partners:
Andy and Cindy Morgan
Table sponsors:
Bank of Estes Park
Westover Construction
Wildfire Homes
Bank of Colorado
Denise Shank
Harmony Recovery
Estes Park Health
Auction items donated by:
Alice League
Derek Vinge
Alison Gilbert
Aspen and Evergreen
Avant Garde Aleworks
Backbone Adventures
Bank of Estes Park
Bart’s Liquor
Poppy’s Pizza and Grill
Quintana Imagery
Rock Cut Brewing Co.
Rocky Mountain Chocolate Factory
Rocky Mountain Discount Liquor
Scott Dorman
Serenitea’s Tea Room and Cafe
Snowy Peaks Winery
Spur Liquor
Sticks-N-Stones
Sweet Basilico
The Barrel
The Crepe Shop
The Qi Lounge
The Spice Rack
Twin Owls Restaurant
Home Design consultation by Valerie
Dascoli
Village Goldsmith
You Need Pie
Jasmine, Brandy, Willie, Rocco And Goose Need New, Loving Forever Families
Jasmine is about four years old. She is very sweet and does well with other kitties. She is a lazy girl and likes to be cuddled. She is currently living at the Pet Lodge.
Brandy is a very outgoing heeler mix about 1-2 years old and she’s ready to go hiking and playing. She loves being active. She is about 42 pounds and loves other dogs. Brandy is crate trained and loves food!
Willie is a very sweet and handsome boy. He is pretty good on a leash, although excited and jumpy at first. He does well with other dogs and initial testing seems like he might do okay with kitties. He is a big dog at approximately 75 lbs. Such a sweetie!
Rocco is a funny, happy dog! He is about three years old, weighs 53 pounds and is housetrained. He’s a lover of people and dogs, both big and small
is
is 2 1/2 years old.
Please call (970) 286-
1652 if you’d like to meet or foster any of these special pets. All pets are offered through the Pet Association of Estes Park, a non-profit organization that is the Estes Valley’s only humane society.
You can make a tax-deductible donation to the Pet Association by sending your check to P.O. Box 4342, Estes Park, CO 80517. For more information about the Pet Association, please visit petassociationestespark.com.
Goose is a short haired border collie mix who weighs about 55 pounds. He was raised with kids and
good with dogs and cats as well. He
Jasmine
Brandy
Willie Goose
Estes Valley Sunrise Rotary Recognizes Volunteers At Signature Events
Each year, the Estes Valley Sunrise Rotary has two signature fundraisers; the Labor Day Arts & Crafts Show and the 30th Annual Autumn Gold Festival.
These two fundraisers happen in the same month of September – just three weeks apart, and they bring in approximately $70K net for our club to pass on to local non-profits and promising graduating seniors from Estes Park High School. It takes a lot of people working together to ensure both of these events are successful. This year we were fortunate to have volunteers from many organizations.
The Estes Valley Sunrise Rotary Club would like to thank the
• Scouts of Troop 8 – who worked tirelessly during the 30th Annual Autumn Gold Festival to organize lawn games and collect trash.
• League of Women Voters – who kept recyclables out of the trash during the 30th Annual Autumn Gold Festival.
• Estes Valley Recreation Center –who organized many fun games for kids during the 30th Annual Autumn Gold Festival.
District Bee Keeping Club
• Estes Park Library and Friends Foundation
• The Estes Park Learning Place
raise…[and disburse as grants to nonprofits and scholarships to high school seniors].”
Estes Valley Sunrise Rotary would also like to thank these 19 nonprofit organizations who received grants in
• Estes Park High School Welding Program
• Muriel MacGregor Charitable Trust
• Estes Arts District
2024 from the Estes Valley Sunrise Rotary Club and came out in numbers to donate hundreds of hours to help with our two signature fundraising events in September:
• Estes Park Newcomers Club
• Estes Park Senior Citizens
• Estes Park Education Foundation
• Estes Valley Crisis Advocates
• Estes Park Newcomers Club – who helped during both Labor Day Arts & Crafts Show and the 30th Annual Autumn Gold Festival.
Many locals will remember when the local Boy Scout Troop used to sell Christmas trees to fundraise as the holidays approached. In the last several years, this has sadly not been an option for the scouts or our community for multiple reasons. What has not changed, however, is our troop’s need for fundraising. In 2023, Estes Park
• Estes Park Boys and Girls Club of Larimer Co
• League of Women Voters
• Crossroads Ministry of Estes Park
• Partners of Estes Park
• Glen Haven Volunteer Fire Department
• The Old Gallery
• Estes Park High School District Band Boosters
• Estes Park School
• American Legion Post 119
• Estes Valley Amateur Radio Club
One of the criteria on the Sunrise Rotary Community Grant application is “If a Grant is received by your organization, we kindly request your members assist at our next fundraising events. It takes quite a few people to raise the amount of money that we
Applications for the 2025 Community Grants will be available on the Sunrise Rotary webpage at https://portal.clubrunner.ca/5242 starting on January 1, 2025. The Estes Valley Sunrise Rotary (EVSR) invites proposals from charitable organizations in the Estes Valley for grants to support programs and projects (Programs) to benefit the Estes Valley community. To apply for funding, complete and submit the grant application no later than March 31, 2024.
About Us: Rotary is a global network of 1.2 million neighbors, friends, leaders, and problem solvers who see a world where people unite and take action to create lasting change…across the globe, in our communities and in ourselves. The Estes Valley Sunrise Rotary Club was chartered in 1987 with 28 members. Currently, we have over 40 members strong. We meet at the American Legion on the first four Tuesdays of every month. The breakfast and socializing begin at 6:30 a.m. and the meeting begins at 7 a.m. Come join us. For more information, visit https://portal.clubrunner.ca/5242
Still Time To Order Boy Scout Poinsettias & Wreaths
Troop 8 launched several inaugural fundraisers with the goal of establishing not only steady fundraising sources, but also new annual traditions for the troop and community alike. For Christmas 2023, the troop sold holiday poinsettias and decorated wreaths with great success. The poinsettias were larger and more colorful than even we anticipated, and the wreaths proved to be not only beautiful but also durable (many of us still have them hanging on our doors).
For Christmas 2024, Troop 8 is excited to announce that we will again be fundraising by selling holiday poinsettias and decorated wreaths! We will be accepting pre-orders for both poinsettias and wreaths until
November 8th, 2024. Orders will be available for pickup on December 7th and 8th, behind the American Legion on 1st Street, between 11 a.m. and 5 p.m. Orders of five items or more will be eligible for delivery. Pre-orders can be made online at estesparktroop8.square.site or by asking to place an order with any local boy scout. If you are unable to place an order before the deadline, don’t worry! We plan to have wreaths and poinsettias available for on-site purchase. Your purchase will be a much appreciated donation that will help our local scouts pay for equipment, scout registration fees, and many other costs associated with volunteer-run programs. Your donations will not only help Estes Park’s future leaders, but also support a nearby small business as our wreaths
and poinsettias will be locally grown and decorated by Plantorium in Laporte, Colorado! We hope to continue to establish this as an annual fundraiser and tradition, for future generations to remember much like the Christmas tree sales. We hope to see you in December!
Watch For Wildlife On Roads During Daylight Saving Time
Changing your clocks and driving habits during daylight saving time can help prevent wildlife-vehicle collisions. Wildlife and transportation experts advise Colorado drivers that wildlife is on the move, so be aware, drive with caution and slow down at night.
This Sunday, Nov. 3, 2024, marks the
risk of serious injury and death in a crash is reduced by half when seat belts are worn.
Report collisions. Drivers involved in a wildlife-vehicle collision should report the accident to the Colorado State Patrol by calling *CSP (star key and 277).
end of daylight saving time, which means people will set their clocks back an hour, see dusk earlier and see more wildlife migrating to wintering habitats during rush-hour traffic on roadways.
Colorado Parks and Wildlife (CPW), Colorado Department of Transportation (CDOT) and Colorado State Patrol ask drivers to drive cautiously as winter storms push wildlife from the high country into lower elevations.
Slow down. Traveling at high speeds increases the danger of a crash. Moderate speeds maintain a driver’s reaction time and allow an appropriate response to animals on or near roads.
Stay alert. Pay close attention to the roadway between dusk and dawn, when deer and other wildlife are most active and crossing roadways.
Scan ahead. Watch for movement and shining eyes along roadsides. If you see one animal, you should expect others to be in the area.
Obey traffic signs. Many highways have wildlife warning signs intended to alert motorists of known wildlife movement areas. Transportation authorities attempt to reduce the number of wildlife-vehicle collisions by posting signage and lowering speeds in areas where wildlife is active.
Give warning. Slow down or stop when animals are seen on or near the road (if no other cars are behind you). Honk the horn and flash headlights to warn the animal to avoid the road and alert drivers to the potential hazard. Avoid swerving. Never swerve or jerk the wheel of your car. Swerving can cause you to lose control, drive into another vehicle or drive off the road. Always wear seat belts. Unfortunately, not every collision is avoidable. The
and CDOT actively monitor wildlife data to identify potential highway mitigation projects that can protect wildlife on the move and keep motorists safe. Collaboration between the agencies has led to developing wildlife prioritization plans for the Western Slope and the Eastern Slope and Plains. To learn more, visit the Colorado Wildlife Transportation Alliance webpage.
“Many of our highway construction projects now incorporate wildlife miti-
gation features where they are needed most,” explained CDOT Chief Engineer Keith Stefanik. “Animal underpasses, overpasses, deer fencing, jump outs and deer guards are structures that can help funnel and direct large game and even smaller wildlife to cross from one side of the highway to the other in a safe manner for both motorists and the animals.” Projects recently completed or under construction include:
“It can be extremely difficult to see deer and other wildlife along the highway when it’s dark out. So drive the speed limit and concentrate on the road,” said Col. Matthew C. Packard, chief of the Colorado State Patrol. “Our troopers and CDOT maintenance crews are called out daily about animal-vehicle collisions and carcasses on the roadway. We see and respond to thousands of wildlife-vehicle collisions throughout the year.”
Wildlife mitigation features are frequently added to planned highway improvement projects to help decrease the number of wildlife-vehicle collisions in Colorado. CPW
I-70 Genesee (one underpass and high fencing)
US 550 Billy Creek (one underpass with high fencing and tied to two previously completed mitigation projects) I-25 Greenland overpass planned for 2025 (in addition to five underpasses already constructed with high fencing) I-70 West Vail Pass is scheduled for 2025 (two large underpasses, four small mammal culverts and high fencing)
"Colorado has had great success with constructing wildlife crossings in areas with the greatest need. However, all across the state, wildlife is on the move and crossing roads,” said CPW Wildlife Movement Coordinator Michelle Cowardin. “It is important for motorists to watch for wildlife on the move, not be distracted, and obey speed limits to minimize their risk of an accident with wildlife."
Christmas
Christmas
Christmas Christmas BRIGHT BRIGHT
DOES YOUR FAMILY NEED A LITTLE EXTRA SUPPORT THIS HOLIDAY SEASON?
TODAS LAS DONACIONES SON 100% DEDUCIBLES DE IMPUESTOS.
BRIGHTCHRISTMASEP@GMAIL.COM
BRIGHT BRIGHT
Christmas Christmas
¿TU FAMILIA NECESITA UN POCO DE APOYO EXTRA PARA NAVIDAD ESTE AÑO?
Bright Christmas is here to help
Bright Christmas is here to help
REGISTRATION AT CROSSROADS ON:
FRIDAYS: NOVEMBER 1ST AND 8TH | 1PM-4PM
SATURDAYS: NOVEMBER 2ND AND 9TH | 10AM-1PM
TUESDAY: NOVEMBER 12TH | 4PM-7PM
¡Bright Christmas está aquí para ayudarte!
¡Bright Christmas está aquí para ayudarte!
REGISTRO EN CROSSROADS A:
VIERNES: NOVIEMBRE 1ST AND 8TH | 1PM-4PM
SABADO: NOVIEMBRE 2ND AND 9TH | 10AM-1PM
MARTES: NOVIEMBRE 12TH | 4PM-7PM
Sarah (Sally) Lou Leach
Sarah (Sally) Lou Leach 92 of Estes Park, CO, formerly of Gering, passed away at her home surrounded by her children on October 26, 2024. The family will celebrate her life with a private service at the Harrisburg Community Church. She will be laid to rest at a later date with her husband at Nebraska Veterans Cemetery in Alliance Nebraska.
Sarah Lou Leach was born on June 16, 1932 in Washington D.C. to Billie and Henry Bodenhamer. She graduated high school from Los Angeles High School in Los Angeles, CA. She and her husband Delbert married and raised their children in places like Korea, Germany, and
Holland while Delbert served in the military. After Delbert was honorably discharged from the military in 1967 they moved their family to Aurora, CO. Sally had a heart for adventure and lived in Lodgepole, Tarkio, Gering, Osage Beach, and Kimball over the next 50 years before settling down in Estes Park. She always said “The Lake” was her favorite place to live. Sally enjoyed spending time teaching VBS in the summers while having her grandkids visit, camping with family, BBQ, and slow drives in the pontoon on the lake. Sally also spent many years volunteering as a “Grandma” at local elementary schools.
Survivors include her children Michael Andrew (Donna) Leach of Missouri, Charles Ross Leach of Missouri, Jerry Joe Leach of Estes Park, CO, and Valerie Jean (Alan) Elsen of Harrisburg, NE. 14 grandchildren, 30 great grandchildren and 12 great-great grandchildren. She was preceded in death by her parents, husband Delbert S. Leach, two infant daughters, one son, two grandsons, and one great granddaughter.
DECEMBER 21 6PM AN EVENING RACE TOURING THE XMAS LIGHTS
DOWNTOWN ESTES PARK
COCOA & COOKIES
STROLLER
tecH n
A
n – stAFF Ho u si ng sPeciA l ist This position supports the work of the YMCA of the Rockies, Estes Park Center, which operates a mission-based family and group conference and retreat center, serving more than 150,000 guests annually. The Building Maintenance Tech – Staff Housing Specialist is primarily responsible for the maintenance and repair of all aspects of Estes Park Center’s staff housing, with a special emphasis on Glacier Lodge, the year-round staff housing neighborhood. The majority of the work will be ongoing building and grounds maintenance and repair as requested by the Buildings Maintenance Supervisor. Additional maintenance and repair work will also occur in all buildings at the EPC campus. This position pays $21 - $23/hour with great employee perks and benefits including 60 day temporary housing, health, dental, and life insurance, discounted childcare, generous PTO/vacation, ski passes, and participation in the YMCA Retirement Fund.
A d ve n t u re Activities d irector
The Adventure Activities Director is responsible for the Aerial Challenge Course, Climbing Wall Facilitation, the Gear Shop, and the Mountain Center Desk at the YMCA of the Rockies, Estes Park Center. This position hires, trains, and supervises staff in all aspects of Adventure Activities, while also facilitating and developing programs to benefit guests.
$20.36/h - $24.17/h with full benefits, generous PTO/vacation, YMCA membership, and many more employee perks. To learn more and apply, please visit
All positions require strong communication skills and a desire to thrive in a fast-paced, team-oriented environment. Prior cash handling experience preferred and commitment to excellent customer service is a must. To apply, visit: www.bankofcolorado.com/careers
You've just found it! Fun family business
Outdoor World and Rocky Mountain Connection retail clothing and equipment year round stores needs you. Starting at $17.00-22.00 per hour. Retail selling, merchandising. Quickbooks expert. Store floor manager. You must be cheerful and like people. Choose your hours. Ages 15 to 80. Call Ernie 24 hours a day Mon - Sun. 970 232 8290.
JOIN OUR TEAM!
Full details on employment opportunities and the application can be found at estes.org/jobs.
Regular Full-time
Civil Engineer I-II (Stormwater)
Emergency Services Dispatcher I-III
Events Maintenance Worker I
Fiber Technician
Finance Director/Treasurer
Police Officer I - III
Restorative Justice Program Coordinator
The status of applications will be communicated via e-mail. By choice, the Town of Estes Park is an Equal Employment Opportunity Employer.
Condos
FURNISHED WINTER RENTAL
2bed 2bath Mary’s lake condo. Perfect for 2. NO Pets. $1900 includes all utilities, cable and internet. 970-624-7191
Condo, 2 bed, 1 bath, with washer/dryer. No pets, no smoking.
$2,000/month plus utilities. $2,000 security deposit Call 970-699-6727
Apartments
Beautiful fully-furnished efficiency apartment with gorgeous views of Lake Estes. One bed, full kitchen, full bathroom and fireplace. All utilities included. $1200 per month. Available now through May. 970-779-7455.
Office Space for Rent 1377 Sq. Ft., Conference Room, 3 Private Offices, High Traffic Area with Great Exposure, Open Lobby Area, Printer Room. 351 Moraine Ave. Suite B 970-227-4865 nathan@kinleybuilt.com
Piano Tuning
Susan Novy, local piano tuner. Call for appt. 577-1755 www.estesparkpiano tuner.com
Other-Misc
Free Consultation and Review of your health plan for those with Medicare and those under 65! Call Us First 970-672-1092. ncipsenioradvantage.com
Seeking creative person 3+ days/week, 5+ hours/day to work in a retail environment. Quilt or knit/crochet experience preferred. Must have computer skills. Send resume to catherine@peaktopeakstitching.com
Accountant
40 hours/week, Exempt
Salary Range: $67,310 - $94,233 annually
Excellent benefits package; includes medical, dental, vision, retirement (PERA), 401(k) options, generous Paid Time Off (PTO), & more
Summary: The Public Library Accountant ensures accurate and ethical government accounting operations, administers payroll and benefits, and performs other priority administrative functions. The Accountant demonstrates the Library values of Intellectual Freedom, Hospitality & Service Excellence, Community, Teamwork, and Professionalism.
Closing Date: 5 PM, Monday, December 2, 2024, or until filled.
PROCEDURE FOR APPLICATION:
Review full job description and apply at estesvalleylibrary.org/jobs
and computer skills preferred; starting
based on
and qualifications. Call 970-586-9999 or send resumes to faith@shottsmerrymancpas.com
To apply visit www.albertsonscompanies.com select Careers then search for Estes Park, CO to locate jobs After your application has been completed, please call our hiring manager Ann at 970.586.4447.
Furniture
Beautiful, leather-like 3-seater Couch with two electric loungers AND 2 lounge chairs. All three matching. No tears and no stains. Ready for your living room. $300 per chair and $500 for the couch...OR $1000 for all three.
Armstrong Piccolo, used, good condition $200.00
Antigue Flute, used, good condition $200.00
Jupiter Clarinet, new, $300.00
Buffet Clarinet
Garage Sales
1745 Wildfire Rd: home goods, baby items, outdoor gear, clothes & more! 11/9, 8a to 1p Estate Sales
ESTATE/MOVING SALE Need to have one, but seems overwhelming. We do the work, you make the $. Local, Affordable, References. CALL JUDI 970-215-5548
Remixed Custom Sewing Services. Small Furniture, Restoration, Cushions and Industrial Repair. Call for appointment 970-492-5446
Public Notice of Petition for Change of Name. Public notice is given on 10/24/2024 that a Petition for a Change of Name of an Adult has been filed with the Larimer County Court. The Petition requests that the name of Keri Ellen Vik be changed to Keri Ellen Young. By Christine Fox, Clerk of Court/Deputy Clerk
PROFESSIONAL BUSINESS BUILDER
Gale Baniak - Owner/Barber
Racheal Giroux - Barber
970-586-2000 • 415 W. Elkhorn Ave. 100 feet North of the Bighorn Restaurant No Appointment Necessary (for straight razor shaves only)
