Estes Park News, May 12, 2023

When It’s Time To Change

Snowshoe Hares transition from an entirely white coat to an entirely brown coat between the seasons of winter and summer. This adaptation helps protect them against predators.

During the winter, snowshoe hares are pure white, which helps them blend in with the snow. When the seasons change to spring and summer, snowshoe hares turn a reddish-brown color. This helps them camouflage with dirt and rocks. Photo by Brad

Manard www.rmnphotographer.com

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Camp Host Volunteer Opportunity

Estes Park’s Events Department is seeking applicants to serve as an RV Camp Host from the beginning of May until the beginning of September, with flexibility if needed. The Camp Host will enjoy a free RV space that includes access to water and electric hook ups and use of the dump station in exchange for helping monitor the Fairground RV sites.

The Camp Host has use of the host RV spot away from the main lot, free electricity, water and sewer hookup. There is a shower house on site available as well. The Camp Hosts job includes the following:

● Help keep the RV lot clean, light trash pick up

● Make sure guests don't leave trash outside campers

● Make sure that the guests have their permits and they are displayed properly

● Help make sure our guests are following the RV camping rules

● In your spare time, explore Estes Park and the Rocky Mountains

To apply to be the Volunteer Camp Host, please complete the Volunteer Application at https://dms.estes.org/Forms/volunteerapplication.

For more information on the Camp Host position, please contact the Town of Estes Park Events Division at 970586-6104 or events@estes.org.

Kids and adults are invited to the annual Estes Park Public Safety Fair this Saturday, May 13, sponsored by the Estes Park Police Department. This fun, family event takes place from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. at the Estes Park Event Center located at 1125 Rooftop Way. Estes Park Police Officers will be serving free hamburgers, hot dogs, snacks and beverages, donated by local businesses, from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. for all attendees.

More than 20 regional public safety agencies will converge on Estes Park for the Safety Fair, bringing equipment and apparatus including a bomb robot, medical evacuation helicopters, dive rescue apparatus and more. Agency representatives will be on hand for demonstrations and to answer any questions attendees may have. Other local agencies currently signed up to participate include the Estes Valley Fire Protection District, Colorado Parks and Wildlife, Rocky Mountain National Park, and Larimer County Sheriff.

Local businesses have generously donated door prizes, including movie tickets and bowling games. Families can enter to win free giveaways from the Estes Park Police Department. Children can register to win one of multiple bikes to be given away at 1 p.m.

Donations provided by Walmart, Reel Mountain Theater, The Bull Pin Bowling and Sports Bar, Estes Park Rent All, Ice of Estes Park, Safeway, El Mex-Kal Family Mexican, Poppy’s and McDonald’s.

For more information please call Officer Paul Mieszala, event coordi-

Kris Hazelton

Streamflow In Big Thompson Canyon Expected To Be Above Average In Spring, Early Summer

The Bureau of Reclamation anticipates allowing the majority of Big Thompson River water to pass through Lake Estes this spring and early summer, resulting in higher-than-average streamflows in the Big Thompson Canyon during the 2023 snowmelt season.

During most years, a portion of the flow is diverted off-channel for hydropower production, reducing the total flow in the Big Thompson Canyon. The last time Reclamation directed all Big Thompson River flows to pass through Lake Estes was in 2011.

“Anticipating snowmelt and above average flows, we want people who have homes and businesses closer to the streambanks to be able to prepare and plan accordingly,” said Jeff Rieker, Eastern Colorado Area Office Manager. In previous years with snowpack conditions similar to those observed this April, peak daily natural inflows to Lake Estes typically ranged between 800 and 1,350 cubic feet per second, for about four to ten days. The North Fork Big

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 April 30, the Estes Valley Fire Protection District (EVFPD) responded to 14 calls for service. This

Thompson River, that joins the Big Thompson River near Drake, generally contributes an additional 175 to 350 cubic feet per second in years with similar runoff.

Media inquiries or general questions about Reclamation should be directed to Anna Perea, Public Affairs Specialist, at 970-290-1185 or aperea@usbr.gov. If you are deaf, hard of hearing or have a speech disability, please dial 7-1-1 to access telecommunications relay services.

The Colorado-Big Thompson Project (C-BT) is one of the largest and most complex natural resource developments undertaken by the Bureau of Reclamation. C-BT stores, regulates and diverts water from the Colorado River west of the Continental Divide to provide supplemental irrigation water for 615,000 acres east of the Rocky Mountains. It supplements the municipal and industrial water supply and provides recreation for more than 1 million residents in Northeastern Colorado. It also produces enough electricity to power nearly 68,000 households.

included:

• Emergency Medical (assist EPH): 3

• Motor Vehicle Crash (MVC): 3

• Odor Investigation: 3

• Smoke Investigation: 2

• Alarm Activation: 2

• Fire: 1

Estes Park Museum Temporary Closure

Due to staff professional development, the Estes Park Museum gallery will be closed Friday, May 19 through Saturday, May 20, 2023. The gallery

will resume regular hours on Wednesday, May 24. The Museum’s gallery hours are Wednesday through Saturday from 10:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m.

National Teacher’s Appreciation Week Sparks Memories

Most of the time, I don’t find it to be very difficult to hang out in the present while glimpsing into the future. However, this past week, while striving to hang out and glimpse, I found myself doing an uncharacteristically large amount of looking in the past. I shouldn’t be surprised that this happened. After all, this is the 50th-anniversary year of my graduation from Estes Park High School, and I’ve been busily working with the committee that’s planning the reunion. Moreover, May 8-12 is National Teacher Appreciation Week. Nor should I be surprised that work on the reunion, and the special week for teachers are sparking many warm memories about my school days here. The memories have two common themes. One common theme consists of the many adjustments and extra efforts by teachers that made it possible for me to compete in national and international track and field meets, while also fulfilling the education requirements of the school. It’s a theme that’s evident in a memory of the chemistry lab being open early on Monday mornings by Mr. Hainley, so I could complete the experiment I missed on previous Friday afternoons because I was competing in track meets. It’s evident in memories of Mr. Keith allowing me to turn in English assignments due Friday, on the following Monday, knowing that I did them after long hours of travelling in a van and full days of competing. Further evident in Madame Jean Tanguay meeting with me during lunch break and after school to work on my French pronunciation (having directed me to take French instead of Spanish because I cannot roll my “r” sound). Many adjustments and extra efforts from these and other teachers made it possible for me to graduate with honors from EPHS while earning athletic honors elsewhere.

Another common theme involves the people who recognized I had God-

given-abilities and took time to encourage me to fully realize what I received. Such was the case in 1970, when PE teacher Judy Jenista saw that I had abilities in sports, particularly track and field, and called me into her office. There she gave me a flyer for a Pentathlon competition in Broomfield. Then told me I should enter because I could do four of the five events with very little practice. She suggested, perhaps a track coach could help me. With no coach available, my father stepped up. The day before the competition he took me to the track in Estes to have me try hurdling.

When I arrived at the meet, the meet official lined all the competitors up along the track. My clothing —long shorts, knee socks, tennis shoes, not spikes and no team uniform— must have given the official a hint that I was new to competition. He put me in the last heat. By the time I got to the shotput event, word was out that extra instruction for me was in order. Having heard the word, the official instructed me to step in the back of the ring, go to the toe board, push the shot, don’t throw it like a baseball then step out of the ring at the back. I did what he said, had a valid throw and opted not to put the shot again. By the end of the final event, the 220-yard dash, I had scored enough points to qualify to compete at the AAU regional meet two weeks later in Albuquerque, New Mexico. Soon after, I joined the Colorado Gold track team and the rest, as they say, was history.

Now, looking back, with the benefit of time and space, at the themes of my memories, I can clearly see that I have led a life that was made possible by the efforts of many teachers. They cared about my educational and athletic development and didn’t let me cut corners on either. For you I am eternally grateful. Merci beaucoup.

Madame Tanguay helps student Wendy Koenig, the future mayor of Estes Park, master pronunciation of French words. Photo credit: photo originally appeared in Whispering Pines, the 1972-1973 Annual of Estes Park High School.

A bright yellow school bus proudly displaying the support of our amazing Estes Park teachers at the Estes Park Lumber Company. Photo by Kris Hazelton, Estes Park News.

The Sprague Lake Trail, Picnic and Parking Area will be closed to all users on Thursday, May 18. This closure will be in place for the safe staging of building materials and equipment that will be used to replace and repair a 210-footlong section of the Sprague Lake Boardwalk.

Located along Bear Lake Road, Sprague Lake is a popular destination for many park visitors. There is a 0.7-mile loop trail around the lake, as well as an accessible backcountry campsite, picnic area, and vault toilets near the parking area. Sprague Lake offers spectacular scenic views of the lake itself and the Continental Divide. The Sprague Lake Boardwalk was first constructed in 2000 and is due for repairs.

During the Sprague Lake Boardwalk Replacement Project, the park’s trail crew, assisted by a Rocky Mountain Conservancy Conservation Corps trail crew, will replace failing wooden boards, as well as widen a section of the boardwalk. Crews will also repair the substructure by replacing with steel beams to extend the total life of the bridge.

These improvements will improve accessibility for visitors who use wheelchairs and strollers. The project will also improve two scenic overlooks. Once complete, the new Sprague Lake Boardwalk will look very similar to the Lily Lake Boardwalk.

While the staging of equipment and building materials will happen on May 18, the majority of the boardwalk replacement work will take place beginning in August 2023. This will help minimize impacts to wetlands areas, as the water in the impacted area will be lower and the ground in the wetlands dryer. Once project work begins, there will be a full closure in place for a small portion of the Sprague Lake Trail. The majority of the Sprague Lake Trail will remain open to park visitors. This trail project is scheduled to be completed in late fall 2023.

For more information on Rocky Mountain National Park, please call the park’s Information Office at (970) 5861206 or visit our website at www.nps.gov/romo.

Upper Thompson Sanitation District: We Are Grateful For Your Trust

We want to express our heartfelt gratitude to District residents and property owners who showed their support for Upper Thompson Sanitation District during the recent election. Our community overwhelmingly voted in favor of the District’s future by supporting the ballot question that allows us to retain and spend all revenues and funds received from grants and donations for the purpose of offsetting the cost of the new Water Reclamation Facility and future District improvements.

This decision marks a significant milestone in our efforts to provide sustainable and reliable wastewater treatment solutions to our community for generations to come. With the construction of the new Water Reclamation Facility, we can replace outdated and ailing infrastructure. This will ensure we comply with future water regulations, continue to provide a vital public service and high quality of life to the Estes Valley, and serve as responsible stewards of the environment.

We still have a long way to go. The cost of the Water Reclamation Facility is incredibly high, and we must scale down

the project in a way that has been challenging for our team. We are pursuing several funding options while keeping in mind the District’s collection and wastewater treatment services are solely funded by customer rates. Passage of the ballot initiative provides an important tool in expanding the District’s options moving forward. We are grateful to our electors for recognizing the importance of this initiative, for their unwavering support, and their faith in the leadership and staff to care for the District’s assets.

The District’s ability to retain all grant and donation funds received will help make the new Water Reclamation Facility and future improvements a reality.

The commitment of our electors to the betterment of our community is truly inspiring, and we are grateful for the trust you have placed in us. We look forward to our continued partnership as we undertake a project that will transform the future of the Estes Valley.

Sincerely,

Chris Bieker District Manager, Upper Thompson Sanitation District

Sprague Lake Boardwalk Replacement Project. Photo courtesy Rocky Mountain National Park

Save The Date For Estes Recycles Day

Save the date – and your recyclables –for our next annual Estes Recycles Day, Saturday August 12 from 9 a.m. to noon at the Events Complex Main Parking (enter from Manford Ave).

The League of Women Voters Community Recycling Committee and the Rotary Club organize this entirely volunteer-run event. We are grateful that the town is again providing the location.

Volunteers will assist recyclers at three main stations: paper shredding, scrap metal and electronics.

NOTE: Significantly reduced fees will apply this year for electronics recycled, thanks to a grant from Village Thrift Store. The Sunrise Rotary Club also awarded a grant that will help with operating expenses.

Watch for additions to the items that will be accepted this year.

Organizers are seeking volunteers ages 16 and up. Are you available on Saturday morning, August 12, to work a two- or four-hour shift? Contact Yvonne at ERDvolunteer2023@gmail.com for more information about volunteering.

As we get closer to the event more information will be posted at www.estesrecycles.org.

Guarde la fecha para el Día de Reciclaje de Estes

Reserve la fecha y guarde sus materiales reciclables para nuestro próximo Día anual de Reciclaje de Estes, que se llevará a

cabo el sábado 12 de agosto de las 9:00 a.m. a las 12:00 p.m. mediodía en el estacionamiento del complejo de eventos (entra desde la Avenida Manford). El Comité Comunitario de Reciclaje de la Liga de Mujeres Votantes y el Club Rotario organizan este evento, lo que es totalmente dirigido por voluntarios. Estamos agradecidos de que el municipio está proporcionando de nuevo el sitio. Los voluntarios ayudarán a los recicladores en tres estaciones principales: trituración de papel, chatarra metálica, y electrónicos.

NOTA: Este año se aplicarán tarifas significativamente reducidas para los electrónicos reciclados, gracias a una subvención de Village Thrift Store. El Club Rotario "Sunrise" ha otorgado una subvención para ayudar con los gastos de maniobras.

Esté atento a las adiciones a la lista de los artículos que se aceptarán este año. Habrá más información más adelante. Los organizadores buscan a voluntarios mayores de 16 años. ¿Está usted disponible el sábado 12 de agosto por la mañana para trabajar en un turno de dos o cuatro horas? Póngase en contacto con Yvonne en ERDvolunteer2023@gmail.com para obtener más información sobre el voluntariado.

A medida que nos acerquemos al evento, la información se publicará en www.estesrecycles.org.

League Of Women Voters Presents Rocky Mountain Conservancy Update May 17th

Estee Rivera Murdock, executive director of the Rocky Mountain Conservancy, will present an update on Conservancy projects in support of Rocky Mountain National Park at the League’s monthly meeting May 17th. This event is open to the public and will be held at the American Legion at 10 a.m.

As Rocky Mountain National Park has grappled with some of the greatest challenges in its history including devastating wildfires and record-setting park visitation, the park’s official nonprofit partner, the Rocky Mountain Conservancy has worked alongside offering vital support through philanthropy and education.

Learn how the Conservancy is helping to protect and enhance the park through critical land acquisition, wildfire recovery, historic and cultural preservation,

trail construction, and innovative education programs. Hear also how the Conservancy supports RMNP operations ranging from major funding of Search & Rescue to developing the next generation of stewards, and how the Conservancy is addressing the workforce housing shortage in the Estes Valley. Estee’s program is a perfect complement to RMNP Superintendent Darla Sidle and Kyle Patterson’s update to the League in March.

Maybe you’ve shopped at a Conservancy-run Nature Store or even proudly display the RMNP license plate on your car. Learn what a difference your support, and that of other Conservancy members and donors, is making for our park!

Parkinson’s Support Group Meeting

The next meeting of the Parkinson’s Disease Support Group will be held Tuesday, May 16 in the Hondius Room at the Estes Valley Library. Monthly meetings are always held on the third Tuesday of the month from 2-3:00 p.m. All affected by this progressive neurological disease are welcome to attend to bring their own experiences, strength and hope and come together for the good of the group. Questions, comments? Call Linda Hanak at 970-443-8146.

Estee Rivera Murdock

Claire’s Restaurant And Bar Donates To Estes Valley Crisis Advocates

Claire’s Restaurant and Bar held their fourth annual fundraising dinner earlier this year to benefit Estes Valley Crisis Advocates. Thanks to a great response from our community, Claire’s was able to raise an amazing $10,094.24 to donate to this wonderful organization who help so many in need.

Shown here, Diana David Brown,

Michelle Fanucchi and Rosemary Truman from EVCA accept the check from Chef Bill Brink and Ryan Banker at Claire’s.

According to Diana, “EVCA could not continue to provide all of their free, confidential services without the continuing support of businesses like Claire’s. We sincerely appreciate their help!”

$$ cash prize

$10

Imagine that a spaceship full of aliens from a faraway galaxy landed on Earth and spent several years here, studying us Earthlings on our unique planet. They would witness the seasons, the vast array of plants and animals, sea creatures and corals, spiders and webs. They would see us pollute our ecosystems and watch us try to eliminate the lovely dandelion. (“Why?” they would ask in alienese.

No one would be able to give a good answer.) The aliens would watch us force fissures in our globe as if we were trying to crack it open like an egg, to extract fossil fuels.

(“Don’t you have enough?” they would ask. “There is never enough,” we would answer.) They would watch our courtship rituals, our marrying and divorcing and our procreating practices. They would witness our political systems, our violation and enforcement (or not) of laws, our bickering; our lying, cheating, shooting, bombing, and world wars. And they would observe how an obscure concept, something most people in our country call God, would continually rip apart our civilization.

“What is this God?” they would ask. Good question.

How does one define God? This is something each of us has considered from time to time and for many of us, more often than that. For some of us, our explanation has evolved into something we absolutely know concretely. For others of us, our vision has shrunk and perhaps disappeared altogether, along with our belief that there is a God at all. Others of us simply cannot pin a definition on God.

The Merriam-Webster definition of God (with a capital G) is: the supreme or ultimate reality. The Being —perfect in power, wisdom, and goodness—who is worshipped as creator and ruler of the universe (as in Judaism, Christianity, Islam, and Hinduism).

In this country, where the predominant religion is Christianity, God is viewed as the supreme being, creator, and principal object of faith. Atheists reject the belief in any deity and agnostics believe that the existence of God is unknown and unknowable.

God is often considered to be akin to the Great Chess Player in Heaven: ruler of the universe—with a plan—calling the shots and manipulating us like pawns. (These believers usually think everything happens for a reason.) God is sometimes seen as the most benevolent (if we narrowly miss getting hit by a semi-truck, it is because God moved us out of the way just in the nick of time), while other times God is viewed as not involved in humanity apart from creation. (It took God six days to create the heavens and earth and the seventh day God brushed off God’s

hands and said, “I’m finished.”) Some people think of God is the universe itself.

Some traditions see God as the source of all moral obligation. These traditions focus on a relationship with God through acts such as worship and prayer.

God is sometimes described without reference to gender, while others use terminology that is gender-specific. Worldwide, God is referred to by different names depending on the language and cultural tradition.

So when our visiting aliens ask about God, how would we answer?

Episcopal Bishop John Shelby Spong (1931-2021) said there is no possible way to define God. “God is an extension of us,” he said. “God is the source of life, the source of love, and the ground of all being.”

“Therefore,” Spong said, “Live fully. Love wastefully. Be all you are capable of being.” This is the way Christ lived.

Personally, I believe God is the energy around us and within us—I think of it as molecules or bubbles floating in the air that we can keep or give away—the love, the healing, the forgiveness, the compassion. When I pray, I breathe in and breathe out that energy, strengthening me to be all I am capable of being.

When I encounter an alien asking about God (wouldn’t that be cool?), or when I see my neighbor using chemicals on his lawn, or bump elbows with an annoying homeless person on a subway, I don’t try to explain God, because I cannot. But I can show God. I can live God. I can love. That doesn’t hurt anyone. I pray every day that I don’t hurt anyone. I only ask to draw on God-energy so I can love more.

Bill M. said it well at the beginning of our Rotary meeting last week: “I suggest we frame our prayers and thoughts as opportunities to give thanks for our blessing and reinforce our potential for serving others. Regardless of beliefs, this tradition also provides opportunities for internal reflection to reinforce our orientation to the virtues of honesty, fairness, goodwill within our community, and providing value through service to all concerned, as well as Rotary’s motto of Service Above Self.”

If we all live this way—serving others—, our imaginary aliens will become our friends, and they might invite us to go back to their home with them for a visit. We would hope for equal treatment there.

You may let The Thunker know what you think at her e-mail address, donoholdt@gmail.com.

© 2023 Sarah Donohoe

Sterling Silver • Glass

Copper • Wind Chimes

Moving Sand Art

239 W. Elkhorn Ave

Under the Clock Tower

Colorado

General

Assembly Approves

'Born To Be Wild' License Plate

As the Colorado General Assembly completes the last day of the 2023 session, two bills head to the desk of Governor Jared Polis which will make Colorado a model of gray wolf conservation. HB23-1265 creates a handsome new license plate that will support programs to prevent conflicts with gray wolves through non-lethal means. An image of the new plate is available at www.wolfplate.org.

The other bill, SB23-255, creates a permanent appropriation to cover livestock losses to wolves. Both bills are the result of unprecedented collaboration between wildlife conservationists, hunters and livestock producers.

“The ‘Born To Be Wild’ license plate will move hundreds of thousands of dollars annually to Colorado Parks & Wildlife to fund non-lethal conflict reduction programs and tools. The plate will also support research to make those tools more effective,” said Rob Edward of the Rocky Mountain Wolf Project. “We are very proud of the plate that our volunteers created, and grateful for the support of livestock producers, hunters, the bill sponsors and the Polis Administration in securing legislative approval.”

Featuring a gray wolf against the classic Colorado mountain background, under a sky lit by the Milky Way, the plate was a graduate project for Gillian Marie, a scientific illustrator living on the Front Range. Marie collaborated with Edward, his wife Anne, and other volunteers at the Rocky Mountain Wolf Project to develop the design.

“It’s been an incredible honor to have my work as a science illustrator contribute to the restoration of a native species that was nearly hunted to extinction,” said Marie. “Working alongside scientists, wildlife experts, naturalists and educators who are passionate about native species and ecosystem balance fueled my desire to continue work in this field.”

“The plate symbolizes Colorado’s for-

ward-thinking commitment to restoring wolves to her vast wildlands,” said Edward. “The people of Colorado said they wanted wolves back, and that they wanted to make this work for everyone. The ‘Born To Be Wild’ plate is the physical embodiment of that commitment. It will help ranchers adapt to wolves without putting a dent in their bottom line, while also protecting Colorado’s repatriated wolves.”

Gary Skiba, Wildlife Program Manager at San Juan Citizens Alliance in Durango, said, “The Born to be Wild license plate is another demonstration of Colorado’s progressive approach to wolf restoration. Our thoughtful approach ensures that we can achieve true coexistence and avoid the conflicts seen in other states.”

Skiba noted that supporters of wolf restoration recognize the need to minimize the impact of wolves on livestock owners. “That’s why Proposition 114 spoke directly to the need for fair compensation for losses. Now, those who voted for wolves have a mechanism to contribute to a world-class conflict prevention program.”

Edward pointed out the plate will help to decrease demand from the compensation fund. “Preventing conflict with wolves averts the need for loss compensation. Notably, keeping the focus on non-lethal conflict management also decreases the odds of future loss to wolves.” Emerging scientific research suggests that wolf packs which experience human-caused loss are more prone to turn to killing livestock than packs that do not have members killed by humans.

The ‘Born To Be Wild’ plate should be available in early 2024. In the meantime, people interested in purchasing the plate can sign up at wolfplate.org to receive updates about the plate’s availability and details once the Department of Motor Vehicles makes the plate available.

Photographer: Dave Jones. Courtesy of the Rocky Mountain Wolf Action Fund. Used with permission,all rights reserved.

Estes Valley Land Trust Seeks Volunteers

Every year, the Estes Valley Land Trust monitors more than 170 properties across the Estes Valley that preserve our incredible scenery and critical wildlife habitat. This year, we are looking for 10-15 additional volunteers to hike, photograph and complete short reports, to ensure that these properties remain protected.

“Our conservation easement monitoring program is one-of-a-kind in Colorado,” said Madeleine Green, the land trust’s Stewardship Manager. “Our volunteers do most of the field work and we’re a little short this year.” If you love the outdoors and want to hike for a good cause, monitoring a conservation easement may be a great fit for you. No experience is needed!

Each property is different and the land trust will assign monitoring duties to volunteers based on their interest and desire. Some monitoring events are short and involve hiking on flat ground for less than

an hour, while others are more strenuous and may involve a few hours of hiking.

“We will tailor the monitoring experience to each volunteer, to make sure everyone has a good time,” said Green.

The land trust will offer a free training session, with lunch provided, in early June and monitors are always partnered with co-monitors, for safety purposes. For more information or to sign up and volunteer with the land trust, please contact Madeleine Green at 970-577-6837 or stewardship@evlandtrust.org.

About the Estes Valley Land TrustFounded in 1987 by Estes Park residents, the Estes Valley Land Trust is a nationally recognized land conservation organization that has preserved nearly 10,000 acres of land and some of the most iconic landscapes in the Estes Valley. Please consider becoming a member of the land trust at www.evlandtrust.org/donate.

Planning Commission Meeting

Rezoning Proposal for 685 Peak View Drive

When: May 16, 2023 at 1:30 p.m.

Where: Estes Park Town Hall Board Room

CMS Planning & Development has applied to rezone 7.62 acres on Peak View Drive. It is currently zoned for 1-acre residential lots, and the proposal would rezone to allow 5,000 square foot minimum single-family lots.

This year teachers Jordanne Bradley and Alan Denney started a musical theater class for the middle school students. They are excited to be doing a Broadway review called “Raise Your Voice.” It features songs from “Mary Poppins,” “Oliver,” “High School Musical,” “Little Mermaid,” and many more! They will be performing May 23rd at 4 p.m. & 7 p.m. in the high school auditorium. Tickets are $5 and can be bought at the door before the show.

Particpating students:

Shanyn Barnhouse

Quinn Battin

Gunni Berg

Maya Brandewie

Ella Brink

Cash Bucci

Karley Cox

Bryson Dewey

Hailey Downey

Ean Erie’s Trujillo

Johan Fernandez

Brooklyn Florence

Lela Fortini

Carter Gooch

Jacob Harger

Adyson Light

Yazmin Lopez

Zuyhel Luna

Evelyn McGuillicuddy

Casey Mieszala

Samantha Monge Cardona

Isla Pontius

Miranda Rangel Hernandez

Carlos Rodriguez Carrasco

Talisa Rushing

Kaitlyn Smith

Marissa Strough

Geneva Thomas

Abigail Watry

Amelia Watry

Natalie Workman

Carson Zehr

EPMS Broadway Review

“Raise Your Voice” May 23

Northern Colorado Veterans Take Off On the 3rd Annual High Plains Honor Flight

On Sunday, April 30th, two Estes Park Colorado Vietnam Veterans, Michael Lindholm, US Army, 935/93EVAC Unit Medical Detachment, Long Binh, Vietnam and Richard Erbe, US Air Force, Det 001, 25th TRW, Takhli Thailand, Air Metal recipient, participated with 120 other Northern Colorado Veterans who were part of the High Plains Honor Flight. The group traveled to Washington DC to visit their war memorials. The flight departed from the Northern Colorado Regional Airport in Loveland via Allegiant Air. The streets of Loveland and Windsor were lined with police, first responders, fire trucks, flashing lights and many local citizens lining the route

from The Ranch to the airport waving flags and hand salutes as a send-off. This was a two-day event and veterans were able to visit the World War II Memorial, Iwo Jima Monument, Changing of the Guard/Wreath Ceremony at the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier, Air Force Memorial, the Korean Memorial, the Vietnam and Lincoln Memorials.

If you are veteran and have not had the opportunity to participate in this great event, organizers urge you to take the time and submit your application. It is something you will always remember and you’ll be proud to have been a part of this opportunity. Go to the website at highplainshonorflight.org/apply

Mt. Everest Legend Donates To Longs Peak Reunion Fundraiser

Peak Reunion Fundraiser silent auction and concert, to be held Friday, May 19th at the American Legion Hall at 7 p.m. Sadly, Tom Hornbein passed away in Estes Park on May 6, 2023 at the age of 92. Hornbein’s accomplishment was acknowledged by President John F. Kennedy in a White House ceremony in 1963. Some of Hornbein’s signed items include Mt. Everest, The West Ridge book he wrote as well as other autographed photos.

The late, great Tom Hornbein, who became world famous in 1963 by scaling the West Ridge of Mount Everest recently signed several items for the Longs

The Longs Peak Reunion concert and fundraiser is open to the public. Tickets are $10 and are available through Eventbrite.com or at the door.

Veterans Richard Erbe, US Air Force and Michael Lindholm, US Army.

USO Salute Celebrating Veterans And Armed Forces Day With Kings Of Swing And Friends

musicians like Nat King Cole, Marilyn Miller, and Glenn Miller. No one will blame you if your foot gets to tapping along with the music so much that you have to get up and dance in the aisles.

The Kings of Swing have been performing in Estes Park and the Front Range for more than 25 years. For this show, Dave Scott will play trumpet, Nick Frazee the sax, Chuck Varilek the trombone, Dawson O'Dowd the piano, Julie Varilek the bass, and Ward Durrett the drums. The friends include: Julie Phares, Charles Phares, Denise Stookesberry, Michelle Gergen-Wisner, Ruby Bode, Ivy Andersen and Cory Workman.

On May 20, 1950, the United States celebrated its first Armed Forces Day, and now 73 years later, May 20, 2923, the Fine Arts Guild of the Rockies invites you to the Historic Park Theatre to celebrate our troops with a bash—a Big Band Bash!

The Kings of Swing will hit all the right big-band notes as they perform some classic World War II era music along with their friends. You will hear songs like, “Boogie Woogie Bugle Boy” and “Besame Mucho” and other classics from

Join us for a fun-filled evening honoring and celebrating our Armed Forces. If you are a current service member or a veteran, we would love for you to see you there—especially in uniform!

Tickets are:

$20 Adults

$17 FAGR members, veterans, current service members, and seniors

$15 Youth

Tickets can be purchased in person at Macdonald Book Shop, online at fineartsguildoftherockies.wellattended.com/even ts/sro-tribute-for-armed-forces-day-featuring-the-kings-of-swing, or the night of the event at the Historic Park Theatre.

See What Our Clients Are Saying ~ 5 Star Review!

As first time home buyers, my partner and I knew we were entering difficult terrain trying to buy a home in Estes Park. Fortunately for us, Bret came highly recommended by a co-worker, and exceeded expectations we didn’t even know to have.

Bret was communicative, consistently available, and maintained an excellent balance between giving my partner and I time to think things through while still motivating us to check out properties and consider all our options.

Bret’s knowledge of the Estes Valley area was constantly on display, and I firmly believe if we hadn’t enjoyed the good fortune of working with him, we would still be surfing the market instead of happy, first time home owners. Despite so many variables, from fluctuating interest rates, to a mountain town housing market and everything in between, the one constant was Bret. He and Melanie treated us like family from our first phone call to closing. If we enter the market again, Bret will be the first person we call.

~ Trevor

Sit By Me

“You wouldn’t care so much what people thought about you if you realized how seldom they do.”

My Sainted Irish Mother was an endless source of guidance, entertainment and wisdom for sisters Robin and Valerie, twin brother Ross and me. She wielded words well: wisecracks, one-liners and snippets of poetry tumbled trippingly from her tongue. Although many of her bon mots were lifted from other sources, she recited them often enough that we four octogenarians remember and repeat them as touchstones to her memory. Here’s to you on Mother’s Day, mom. You were the funniest, wisest woman in the world, and we continue to carry you and your humor in our hearts.

“Have you finished your homework yet and why not?”

Lucille Frances Hogan was born in December 1915, when a Model T cost $390; she died shortly before the shuttle Atlantis docked with the Russian Mir space station. Along with sisters Rosemary and Joan she grew up in New York’s Hudson River Valley. At sixteen, about to head off to college, she watched her father pack bags of apples from the family farm for his Wall Street friends to sell on the 1932 depression streets of New York City. Sixty years later she was named the Skidmore College Alumna of The Year.

“Be nice to the people you meet on the way up; you will meet them on the way down.”

She nursed four toddlers (cloth diapers!) while Dad was away winning World War II. One of my earliest memories of her is the laughter, tears and cheering when we banged pots and pans together on a warm August evening in 1945 to celebrate the end of World War II.

“No-one ever lost money underestimating the intelligence of the American people.”

She used a deck of playing cards to tell fortunes late into election night at the Waldorf-Astoria in November 1948. The grand ballroom was all but empty, but as the night wore on crowds gathered, presaging the Chicago Tribune banner headline that Harry gleefully held up the next day: DEWEY DEFEATS TRUMAN!

On Dad’s sentimentality: “Your father would cry at the opening of a KMart.”

She was our Den Mother when Charlie Naylor, Conky, Paul Mendelson, Barry Berglund, Ross and I were Cub Scouts. After months of meetings making lanyards, Yule logs and learning the Scout Law (something about being mentally awake and

morally strong), the whole thing went south after a weekend camping trip when Ross—or perhaps me— threw a cherry bomb into Scout leader Mr. Kornberg’s tent about 11:00 p.m. on Saturday night. He soon quit his teaching job (none of us were disappointed) and left town; Den 6 was disbanded. Mom shrugged and went on to her next project.

Sizing up incompetent crooner: “He sings as if one hand is caught in a vise.”

In her eulogy Ross remembered:

“We were poor back then, and one evening in the early ‘fifties Dad came into the kitchen and asked, ‘What’s for dinner?’ Without missing a beat Mom bent over, picked up a startled cat, and held it over a simmering pot of water.”

Any TV program she didn’t like: “They aimed low and hit the mark.”

My personal commitment to fairness comes from early exposure to injustice; it was easier for Mom to swat the nearest twin, in full knowledge the guilty one would get blamed the following week for something he didn’t do.

“If you can’t say something nice about someone, come over here and sit by me.”

Her resplendent and no-prisoners vocabulary endures: kids were “blarsnoots;” pets had “gropsers” instead of paws; girlfriends were “blisters” or “hairpins;” a decently dressed youth was either “laddybuck” or “Aaron Slick from Pumpkin Crick;” when Dad contracted Parkinson’s he became “Sir Lurchalot.”

“If you have to tell ‘em who you are, you ain’t.”

Mom loved to laugh, and regularly reminded us of the time a doting mother she knew affirmed with a straight face: “My son is a G.E.N.I.O.U.S.”

“Rich or poor, it’s nice to have money.”

“This coffee tastes like dried sweat.”

“Nothing is half as bad if the house is clean.”

Her favorite sweatshirt: “If I had known grandkids were this much fun I would have had them first.”

To ALL mothers out there, and especially two new Moms in Charleston, SC, who just birthed their link to forever, thank you for all you do. We love you, and Happy Mother’s Day!

Reader response welcome: ftm7522@gmail.com

Seasonal Paid Parking And Downtown Trolley Service To Begin Friday, May 26; Local Permit Extended To Two Hours

The 2023 paid parking season will begin on Friday, May 26. Similar to 2021 and 2022, a variety of free and paid options will be available this summer for visitors, locals, and employees, along with the free and frequent trolley service connecting the parking structure with the heart of downtown.

Eight parking areas will require payment this summer between 10 a.m. and 5 p.m. daily through Sunday, Oct. 22:

Town Hall lot

Bond Park (spaces in front of Town Hall and the on-street spaces on Elkhorn Avenue and Park Lane)

East Riverside lot

Riverside lot

Virginia lot

Wiest lot

Post Office lot

Tregent lot

The remaining public parking in downtown Estes Park will continue to be free, including 11 parking areas downtown and the parking structure located at 691 N. St. Vrain Ave / US 36. The parking fee in all paid areas will remain at $2 per hour. Daily parking is always free for those with Americans with Disabilities (ADA) placards or Disabled Veterans (DV) or Purple Heart license plates—for any length of time, in any public parking space. Free, time-limited spaces are also available for those visiting Town Hall (on the Bond Park side, near the Police Department and public restroom entrances), the Post Office, and the Estes Valley Library.

2023 Parking Permits are available for purchase or registration at estes.org/parking. Individuals eligible for permits include downtown residential or rental property owners, downtown employees, and those with marked commercial vehicles. Locals and residents (defined as those living within the Estes Park School District) are eligible for a free Local Permit.

The Town’s free shuttle program will also begin part of its seasonal service on Friday, May 26. The Red Route (downtown trolley) will provide daily service to 11 stops along Elkhorn Avenue: from the Estes Park Visitor Center to just east of The Maxwell Inn, and then back to the Estes Park Visitor Center.

The remaining Estes Transit routes (Gold, Blue, Brown, and Silver) will begin daily service on July 1. The complete 2023 Estes Transit schedule and map, including route times, service dates and stops, can be found at estes.org/shuttles.

Regarding the construction in and around downtown this summer, Town parking staff have been working closely with the citizen Transportation Advisory Board; key community partners like the Estes Valley Library, Estes Chamber, and Visit Estes Park; and several downtown business owners to identify ways to help reduce anticipated downtown parking and access challenges. Most notable for the Estes Valley community:

The Local Permit time allowance has been extended—as recommended by Town staff and unanimously approved by the Town Board on May 9—from one hour (60 minutes) to two hours (120 minutes) of free daily parking. For those already registered for the Local Permit, no action is needed. Thank you to the more than 100 community members who took the time to write in support of this change—your voices were heard!

The Red Route (downtown trolley) hours have been extended to encourage use of the Town’s free parking structure for those working and/or visiting downtown. Trolley service will begin each day at 7:30 a.m. and run through 9:30 p.m. Additionally, from May 27 through October 22, a second trolley will be added to the Red Route from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. on Saturday and Sunday to improve the convenience of that free service during downtown’s busiest times.

The Estes Parking app (free to download on iPhone and Android devices) has been updated with new features and is still the most accurate place to find parking availability information. The same information is also available without the app at https://estes.mpark.io/5033.

The 2023 Parking Map, which includes a map of all free and paid parking areas, payment options, and electric vehicle charging information, can be found at estes.org/parking. However, please note that this document is subject to change because of construction-related closures that may impact parking lots at various times throughout the summer. The best source for up-to-date travel information for downtown Estes Park is the Downtown Estes Loop project website.

For information about parking in downtown Estes Park, please visit estes.org/parking; transit information can be found at estes.org/shuttles. Questions may also be directed to the Public Works Department at 970-577-3587 or publicworks@estes.org.

New Band-”Blue Sky” To Debut At The American Legion May 20

What does a horse trainer, an owl expert, a tour guide, a geo-physicist, a hospital administrator, and a podcast host have in common? Besides sharing a love for this beautiful mountain town, they all also happen to be local musicians with a passion for performing great music in the mountains.

When one thinks of Estes Park and Rocky Mountain National Park, the first words and images that come to mind are probably not “classic rock.”

Classic, yes. Rocks, sure! But... “rock ‘n roll?”

If you are a fan of both kinds of rock, you are in for a treat!

Introducing “Blue Sky” ~ a new classic rock band in town. "Blue Sky" is eponymously named after the classic Allman Brothers song of the same title, and also for the azure dome over the Colorado Rockies.

“Blue Sky” is comprised of local experienced seasoned musicians that you may already know from other local bands and musical situations. "Blue Sky" fea-

tures an eclectic cadre of characters: Kevin Dennis (founder of “The Mountain Town Rockers” and formerly of "The Dennis ~ Tobias Band"); Gary Hall (also from “The Mountain Town Rockers” and leader of his own band "The Really Most Sincerely Dead"); Mark Rashid (from "The TropiCowboys," "Magic Dragon" and "The Brad Fitch ~ Mark Rashid Duo"); Scott Rashid (also from “The Mountain Town Rockers”); Roy Dearen (local Estes Park solo performer); and Brett Wilson (formerly of "Peregrin Road" and local podcast host for The Rocky Mountain Channel).

“Blue Sky” is another entertainment vehicle for these six local musicians to get out there and perform and interact with all of you! All of the other bands and projects that the “Blue Sky” members are involved with will still be performing as well, there are no changes. The “Blue Sky” debut performance will be on Saturday May 20th from 7 p.m. to 10 p.m. at The American Legion. There is no cover charge and dinner is available after 5 p.m.

Longs Peak Reunion Benefit Concert May 19th Features Lost Penny

Longs Peak Reunion returns in late August to celebrate historic stories along the Longs Peak trail. Starting off the Longs Peak Reunion 2023 will be a benefit concert featuring Lost Penny and a silent auction featuring many donated items from area merchants.

Lost Penny will perform Friday, May 19, 2023 at the American Legion Hall in Estes at 7:00 p.m. Local mountaineering

legend Mike Caldwell will Emcee the evenings’ festivities.

Tickets are $10 and are available through Eventbrite.com or at the door. Food and drink are available for purchase.

For more information, or for silent auction donor information, please call Greg at 303-949-5964.

A “Mostly Vocal Recital”

as well as with the Longmont Symphony and the Longmont Chorale, the CU Festival of Choirs, and the Boulder Philharmonic Chorus. He is quite involved in the music at the Rinn United Methodist Church.

Scott studied voice at the University of Colorado with Dr Dennis Jackson and with Roger Bergford of Boulder, and most recently with Dr Derek Chester, professional tenor soloist and Vocal Professor at the University of Northern Colorado. Scott also studied French Horn and Organ at CU, but that was long ago…

Please join us for the final concert in the 2023 Peak to Peak concert series, featuring Scott Anderson. The concert will be held at Shepherd of the Mountains Lutheran Church, 2000 Ptarmigan Trail, at 2:00 p.m. on Saturday, May 13th

Scott is known as the principal tenor soloist with the Estes Valley Chamber Singers, the Oratorio Society of Estes Park, the Estes Park Village Band, and several small ensembles. He has also performed in more than a dozen musicals with the Fine Arts Guild of the Rockies,

Yoga And The Word Classes Offered By Alicia Cossota

The concert will include pieces by Bach, Handel, Mozart, Haydn, Stravinsky, Verdi, Britten, Bernstein, and Copland. Scott will be accompanied by pianist Michelle Gergen Wisner. There may be some “not-so subtle” surprises.

The Peak to Peak Concert Series is sponsored by the Oratorio Society of Estes Park. Our mission is to highlight talented Estes Valley musicians. Concerts are free but donations are graciously accepted.

Alicia Cossota owner of Zoomet Yoga LLC is proud to announce weekly Yoga and The Word classes in two locations. The gentle non-denominational, faith based yoga classes are scheduled on Mondays at 10:30 at St. Francis Angelican Church located at 3480 St. Francis Way and on Thursdays at 10:30 at 600 S. St. Vrain, Unit 1 in the Jazzercise location. Classes are donation based with no membership required. All experience levels are welcome. Come as you are and leave feeling rejuvenated; body, mind and spirit. For more information, contact Alicia at zoometyoga@gmail.com or visit her website which you can find at zoometyoga.com

Featuring Scott Anderson, Tenor

Oratorio Society Of Estes Park Presents

Spring Concerts

You are invited to celebrate the arrival of spring with the Oratorio Society of Estes Park on Friday, May 19th at 7:00 p.m. or Saturday, May 20th at 2:00 p.m. at the Presbyterian Community Church of the Rockies, 1700 Brodie Ave. in Estes Park

Three works for chorus and orchestra will be presented in these concerts: A Song of the Rockies from OSEP conductor, Robert Howard’s Wilderness Reflections, How Lovely is thy Dwelling Place from Brahms’ Requiem and Part I of Haydn’s Creation.

Wilderness Reflections was commissioned in 2015 for the centennial of Rocky Mountain National Park by then conductor, the late and dear, Kathryn Bowers and the Oratorio Society to mark the centennial of Rocky Mountain National Park.

Both the text and music Song of the Rockies were written Robert Howard for and about Rocky Mountain National Park and the people who hold it dear to their hearts.

When Brahms composed his German Requiem in memory of his mother, he chose to set Biblical texts of his personal choosing rather than employ the text of

the traditional roman mass for the dead. How Lovely is Thy Dwelling Place, placed in the center of the work displays Brahms’ gift of lyrical beauty and grace, used to the fullest in this elegiac hymn of comfort.

Haydn composed his Oratorio, Creation in 1798 after hearing Handel’s Messiah and other oratorios during his two extended trips to London. This highly exciting and innovative work is based on the King James version of the creation account in the Book of Genesis and is intended to be sung in either English or German.

Creation abounds with rich natural images and colorful and dramatic interaction of orchestra, soloists and chorus. The final chorus of Part I, The Heavens are Telling is one of Haydn’s most exuberant and positive works.

Many local vocal soloists will be featured in these concerts including sopranos, Miranda Bator Dillard, Robin Howard and Melissa Westover, alto Denise Stookesberry, tenor Scott Anderson and baritones, Nelson Burke and Robert Gunn.

Concerts are free and open to the public. Donations greatly appreciated.

Estes Park Jazz Big Band And Village Band To Perform First Summer Concert

The Estes Park Jazz Big Band and Village Band will perform the first concert of their summer season in a combined concert on Sunday, May 14. The free concert will begin at 3:00 p.m. in the Estes Park High School Theater.

The Jazz Big Band has been performing for the Estes Park community and its visitors for 31 years while the Village Band has been performing for 41 years.

Chuck Varilek will lead the Jazz Big Band. Conducting du ties for the Village Band will be shared by Melinda Workman and Varilek.

The Jazz Big Band will kick off the concert with a mix of different styles, including “Puttin’ On The Ritz,” “Black Orpheus” and “Jumpin’ At The Woodside.” Denise Stookesberry will be a featured vocalist on “You Don’t Know Me.”

After a short intermission to reset the stage, the Village Band will begin their portion of the concert beginning with Workman on the podium. She will be leading the band on Percy Grainger’s

“Country Gardens,” and Leonard Bernstein’s “The Wrong Note Rag.”

The band will also perform the latest James Bond movie theme, “No Time To Die.” Varilek will then lead the band on “A Hymn Tune Rhapsody” by Estes Park resident Jerry Brubaker and Eric Whitacre’s hauntingly beautiful “The Seal Lullaby.” The Village Band will also perfom a medley of popular 1920s songs in “Tin Pan Alley,” and the “Tenth Regiment March” by R. B. Hall, also known as “Death Or Glory.”

The Estes Park Jazz Big Band and Estes Park Village Band are community bands made up of adult and high school musicians from the Estes Park area as well as from surrounding communities. New members are always welcome to perform with the band. Rehearsals are on Tuesday evenings in the Estes Park High School bandroom.

Contact Chuck Varilek at 970-2278704 for more information about the concert or the bands.

Bright Christmas Founder Thanks Partners At Plum Creek Shoe Station

Jean Austin, founder of Bright Christmas, presents a check to Kyle Collins of Plum Creek Shoe Station.

The Martin family (owners of the shoe store) have partnered with Bright Christmas for over 25 years, bringing smiles to hundreds of kids' faces as they pick out new shoes. We thank Plum Creek for their support of Bright Christmas!

Denise Stookesberry

The Future Of The Internet Is…Grandparents?

According to the Pew Research Center, 59 percent of seniors are active internet users, which means almost 32 million older adults are using the internet. There is a whole new generation of older Americans who have had long, successful careers in technology and have a strong understanding of how to get the most out of the internet in their retirement. Others – you know who you are – have been early adopters of technology for decades, signing on for the first “brick” car phones in the ’70s, playing Pong on their Atari video consoles in the early ‘80s, and wiring up their smart homes in the early 2000s. And yet another group simply wants to check their email.

Regardless of your current relationship with technology, its advantages and opportunities to enhance lifestyles for all ages are growing, especially for older individuals who are finding more ways to use the internet for connection, convenience, as well as safety and wellness.

Connection

Connecting remotely with family and friends is one of the greatest advantages the internet can provide. Watching children and grandchildren grow and being a part of long-distance family events such as births, weddings, and graduations is truly priceless. Many people are using Facetime, Skype, WhatsApp and Zoom frequently to see the faces of the people who are important to them. Reliable bandwidth with strong upload speeds is essential to these connections. Did you know that only 100% fiber connectivity gives you the same speed for upload as for download and that upload speed is about 100 times faster than any competing provider in the Estes Valley? Upload speed is how fast your data is sent from you to others, and it is necessary for them to see and hear you clearly on a video call. It is also needed for sending and uploading photos, videos and other data through email, social media and cloud services. Only Trailblazer’s fiber connection can provide that reliability when it matters most.

Convenience

If you’ve only used the internet in the past for video chats and a little email, then there is a world of time-saving opportunities to explore from the comfort of your home. Imagine it’s another snowy spring day in Estes Park and you have errands to run, bills to pay, and doctors’ appointments. Here are a few alternatives that reliable high-speed internet can offer:

• How about placing an order for groceries online or ordering your dinner from a local restaurant through DoorDash?

• Make that mobile deposit to your

bank account and pay some bills online.

• Curl up with a good book. You can buy ebooks from Amazon, Apple, Google, and other digital retailers, but why spend money when you can borrow them from your local library? If your library is signed up with Libby or Hoopla, you can browse, borrow, and read books directly through the app.

• Check out the latest weather, news updates and sports scores on your favorite apps, streaming devices, and websites or check out the webcams around town to see when it’s safe to go out.

• Entertain the grandkids at home if the day at Rocky Mountain National Park got rained out. You have the bandwidth for video games, movies and posting to social media to keep them happy.

• Maybe take a virtual tour of somewhere you’ve always wanted to visit. April in Paris anyone, even in October?

• You can even schedule a telehealth appointment with your doctor instead of a live visit when you need it to stay healthy and get the treatment you need.

Safety and Wellness

At Trailblazer Broadband, we do more than just provide the fast, dependable fiber internet you’ve come to count on for entertainment and productivity. We develop and maintain networks that keep your service as reliable as possible to facilitate wellness and life-saving technology in your home. Wellness often extends to concerns about the health and safety of remaining independent in their own homes, especially if they live alone. The concern of a medical emergency or fall is ever-present.

home—the kind of safety and security to keep seniors living independently in their homes.

And with today’s technology, seniors and their families can rest assured that they can enjoy their golden years and in-

Fortunately, technology has dramatically improved safety and security at

dependence for far longer. By utilizing today’s smart home technology and other safety and security features—enhanced by Trailblazer Broadband’s fiber internet—seniors can confidently enjoy their retirement in their own homes.

Below, we highlight some of the technology available to seniors today to help them live at home more independently and safely than any previous generation before.

Personal Emergency Response System

Personal Emergency Response Systems (PERS), such as One Call Alert or Medical Guardian, form the cornerstone for seniors to be independent and confident while living at home.

This cutting-edge technology means that help during an emergency—from a medical scare to a fall—is always at hand, even when a phone is out of reach and a family member cannot assist quickly.

The Personal Emergency Response System is available 24 hours a day, seven days a week.

At the touch of a button, you or your loved one will be connected to emergency contacts to get help as fast as possible.

In addition, the PERS features two-way voice communication right on the device, so there is no fumbling around for a phone or even a need to dial a phone number—just a simple press of the button and the connection to trained emer-

gency assistance is immediately available.

Smart Home Technology

Today’s smart home technology makes basic, daily tasks easier and safer for seniors. For example, by utilizing smart light bulbs, seniors can turn the lights on or off by using their voice, reducing the need for awkward positioning and bending, which can sometimes lead to falls or other injuries.

Smart light bulb voice activation also means there’s no need to search for light switches in the dark, making nighttime walks to the bathroom or kitchen far safer.

Many smart light bulbs are compatible with Amazon’s Alexa, Google Home, and other Smart Home devices, which connect to Trailblazer Broadband’s reliable fiber internet. So, your loved one can easily integrate smart light bulbs into their smart home through easyto-use voice-controlled devices.

Smart Security

Smart home technology can also help seniors be more secure in their homes.

And recent innovations go well beyond traditional security systems like burglar alarms or surveillance cameras. Smart home security technology can integrate across the home’s fiber internet, providing protection almost anywhere in the house.

Exterior smart cameras allow a loved one to know if an unknown person approaches a senior’s property.

And indoor smart cameras can let family members check in if they cannot contact their elderly parents.

Other smart home advances like glass break detectors can alert a loved one to intruders and help deter property crime. These state-of-the-art technologies can help seniors feel safer and more secure in their homes.

Your neighbors at Trailblazer Broadband are honored to be a part of helping seniors live more fulfilling and self-assured lives at home. And because Trailblazer Broadband’s fiber internet is so reliable, you’ll be confident that your smart home and its safety and convenience features will always be there for you.

Trailblazer Broadband is municipally owned and is Estes Park’s only locally supported high-speed broadband service provided over fiber optic lines. The Town of Estes Park provides information only and does not endorse any of the listed companies, the views they express or the products/services they offer. For more information about internet service, contact Trailblazer Broadband at info@trailblazerbroadband.com or (970)577-3770. More Trailblazer news is available at www.trailblazerbroadband.com and www.facebook.com/ TrailblazerBroadband/.

Informational Session On Services By Sunshine Home Healthcare And Hospice

At noon on Tuesday, May 16, Emily Balduzzi will be speaking about her new business, Sunshine Home Healthcare and Hospice. This informative meeting will be held at the Estes Park Senior Citizens Center, 1760 Olympian Ln. Refreshments will be provided. You may also bring your lunch or pre-order a lunch (see below).

Sunshine Home Healthcare and Hospice is a personal homecare business serving Estes Park and the surrounding communities. States Balduzzi, “At Sunshine Home Healthcare and Hospice, we pretty much do it all. We assist with Activities of Daily Living (ADLs), showering, transportation, grocery shopping, housekeeping, and everything in between! We also provide hospice care and respite care for those taking care of loved ones.” For Emily, taking care of people at the end of their life is a privilege and an honor.

Emily Balduzzi has been a Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA) for 15 years. She has worked in healthcare in area hospitals and private care organizations. When she realized the limitations of working for corporate organizations that operate only nine to five, she wanted to offer something more. With her own business model, Emily is now

able to offer her services days, nights, weekends, and holidays when needed. In past years, she has even made, or assisted with, many Thanksgiving meals. She says, “I love it; this is my true calling.”

If you cannot attend this program but are interested in learning more, please contact Emily Balduzzi at (303) 9566232 or emif126@msn.com

If you would like to order lunch for the presentation, you must call the Senior Center before 1:00 p.m. on Monday, May 15. Tuesday’s meal is Carne Asada with corn tortillas, rice, refried beans, guacamole, and sour cream. The cost of a meal is $7 for EPSCC members and $10 for non-members. Become a member of the EPSCC for just $30 per year and take advantage of lunch discounts and all our great programs. To order a meal, or for more information about the EPSCC, please call the Coordinator, Tonya Martin, at (970) 581-2195.

This community presentation is organized and sponsored by Renee Hodgden of RE/MAX Mountain Brokers. Renee is certified as a Seniors Real Estate Specialist by the National Association of Realtors and can be reached at rhodgden@remax.net.

Estes Park Third Graders Hear Inspiring Stories

and playing with a working model of Mr. Stanley’s car turntable that allowed Mr. Stanley to get his famous steamer out of his carriage house without having to turn his neck to back out. Another interesting moment was listening to music from an old-time gramophone.

The students finished their tour watching a short video, “The Stanleys, A Legacy of Inspiration” which featured one of the third graders in the

On the 4th and 24th of April, a total of 80 third graders from Estes Park Elementary School visited The Stanley Home Museum and Education Center for a trip into the early 1900s. Greeted at the door by four guides and the Director, JoAnn Batey, the third graders were introduced to the beautiful home that once belonged to Flora and F.O. Stanley.

The students heard about Mr. Stanley’s tuberculosis diagnosis and how the weather in Estes Park was considered helpful in his recovery. They heard about Minnie, the Stanley’s housekeeper, as well as other visitors to the Stanley Home. They were introduced to Mr. Stanley’s creative and educational side as they opened the “Practical Drawing Set” that the F.O. Stanley developed to help geometry students. The students were allowed to hold a “dry plate” which the Stanley brothers improved to further the art of photography. After hearing about the home’s Colonial Georgian Revival architecture, they were able to point out many features that reflected the style. One highlight of the day was seeing

class. The students enjoyed punch and cookies in the Stanley’s kitchen. There, they also saw an antique wooden icebox, iron stove, a crank telephone, and a classic farm sink.

The young visitors left the Stanley Home with a new appreciation of the couple that helped Estes Park become the vacation spot of the Rockies.

Are You Protected From Disability Risk?

Like many people, you may try to stay healthy by exercising regularly, following a good diet and avoiding dangerous activities. But as we all know, life is unpredictable, and despite your best efforts, you may encounter an injury or illness that can leave you unable to work for several months — or longer. If this happened, would you have difficulty paying your bills? Or would you be forced to dip into investments meant to help you achieve long-term goals, such as a comfortable retirement?

To help prevent these outcomes, you may want to protect yourself against the possibility of a disability. One good move is to build an emergency fund containing up to six months’ worth of living expenses, with the money kept in a liquid account. Even if you never need this fund for a disability, it’s hardly a wasted effort, because you could use the funds for other unexpected costs, such as a major repair to your home or car.

But to feel truly prepared for a disability that could threaten your financial situation, you may also need to consider disability insurance. If you work for a mid-size or large company, your employer may offer group coverage as an employee benefit. This coverage can be valuable, but it may not be sufficient. For one thing, many employer-sponsored disability policies won’t fully replace your lost income. Also, some group policies may make you wait longer than you’d like before your benefits kick in. And these policies aren’t always “portable,” either — if you leave your job, you might also be leaving behind your disability plan.

For these reasons, you may want to consider purchasing a long-term disability insurance policy. However, the features of these policies vary greatly, so you’ll want to be diligent in choosing the policy that’s right for you.

What are the key features to compare

among policies? For openers, look at the type of policy — is it noncancelable or guaranteed renewable? With a noncancelable policy, the terms and premiums can’t be changed, but a guaranteed renewable policy can increase premiums.

Here are some other features to consider:

Coverage amount – How much will you receive in benefits? You may be able to replace up to 100% of your after-tax income.

Waiting period – How much time must pass from the onset of your disability until you start receiving benefits?

Benefit duration – How long will you receive benefits? To protect against a long-term disability, you might want a policy that replaces income until your planned retirement age.

Inflation coverage – How much will your benefits increase each year? Ideally, you’d like your benefits to keep pace with inflation and keep up with what you might receive from future salary increases or promotions.

Definition of disability – If you choose an “Own Occupation” policy, you’ll receive benefits if you can’t work at the job you had when you became disabled. With an “Any Occupation” policy, you’ll receive benefits if you can’t work at any job based on your qualifications.

Clearly, there’s much to consider when choosing a disability policy. You might want to consult with a financial professional, who can help you pick a policy that fits within your overall financial strategy. But don’t wait too long — you may never need to use this protection, but you might like having it available.

This article was written by Edward Jones for use by our local Edward Jones Financial Advisors. Edward Jones, Member SIPC

“Wander The World” With The Summer Reading Program

Get Outside With Help From The Library Of Things

We can see the light at the end of the tunnel! It was a long winter but summer is almost here. We feel it in the mornings, when the sun rises early and the birds chatter away. We see it in the greenery poking through the snow and the river rising with snowmelt. And we all can experience it with the annual Summer Reading Program at the Estes Valley Library!

Community members of all ages are invited to join the Summer Reading Program. Track your reading online (it’s easy and available 24/7), and you could earn prizes. We’ll have rewards for adults, teens, kids, toddlers, and babies. For students, summer reading is essential to avoid the “summer slide.” Studies show that kids who read during the summer return to school in the fall primed and ready to learn. For others who skip reading over the break, it can take weeks to catch up.

For adults, summer reading gives our brains a break from scrolling and screens. It stimulates lifelong learning and connects us with a community of fellow readers. Reading provides many benefits, including reducing stress, promoting good health, and keeping our

creativity and memory skills sharp. This year’s theme is “Wander the World,” which will be reflected in our programs and prizes (which include wireless headphones, AirPods, 3D printing pens, and more!). Don’t miss out on the great programs, either: from sushi making to origami, henna art to paper lanterns, and several other activities involving food, crafts, and fun, we’ll explore global destinations and international cultures throughout the summer. Join us for a kickoff craft (perfect for littles and families) on Thursday, Friday, and Saturday, May 18-20, at 11:15 a.m in the Hondius Room. Teens and tweens are also invited to a kickoff party on Thursday, May 25 at 1 p.m. – come sign up and get a free book!

Summer is a perfect time to read for personal enjoyment. Slide a book in your pack to enjoy on your next hike, listen to an audiobook while working in the yard, or just relax with a read in your favorite coffee shop.

Summer Reading Program is made possible by the generous support of the Estes Valley Library Friends & Foundation. Learn more at estesvalleylibrary.org/SRP2023.

Pet Association Of Estes Park Celebrates 50th Anniversary At Carolyn’s Walk On June 17

Please join us for a leisurely walk or run, with or without your four-legged friends, around beautiful Lake Estes to celebrate the 50th Anniversary of the Estes Park Pet Association.

This is the 3rd annual walk which will be held in memory of Carolyn Patch Fairbanks who passed away in 2021 as well as the 50th Anniversary of the Pet Association. Carolyn dedicated her life to rescuing and aiding homeless animals, including 30 years at the helm of this non-profit organization.

The walk is a fundraiser for the animals. We will meet at 9 a.m. at the Carolyn Fairbanks Memorial Dog Park where participants may make a donation and receive some free doggie gear donated by PetSmart then enjoy a funfilled stroll around the lake.

An After Party will take place at the American Legion from 3-5 p.m. featuring presentations by a Freedom Service Dog, Grant Spencer, Chiropractor will talk about chiropractic for canines followed by the band Tahosa.

What’s your favorite warm weather activity? Whether you like hitting the trails or catching fish, stargazing in your backyard or hosting BBQs, the Library of Things collection at the Estes Valley Library is here to support your summer fun.

For many of us, spending time on the trails is at the top of the list. Check out the Larimer County Park Pass from the Library of Things and take a trip to Hermit Park Open Space. Explore new terrain like the Krueger Rock, Limber Pine, and Moose Meadow trails where you can hike, trail run, or mountain bike. The pass even comes with a wildflower guide book so you can identify spring blooms. If you prefer time near the river or on the lake, dip your toe in the water with a new skill: fly-fishing. This Library of Things kit will get you started by tying knots and learning to cast a rod; then, browse the included guides about tips for beginners and local fly-fishing spots.

Planning a BBQ for Memorial Day or the 4th of July? Borrow our ladderball set so guests can have some fun while you’re working the grill. This classic yard game

is easy to learn and great for all ages. Keep your eyes on the skies, day and night. Check out the birdwatching kit, which includes high definition binoculars, a tripod, and a smartphone adapter so you can snap a close-up photo of your discoveries. Or, borrow the telescope for when the sun goes down. Set it up on your patio table and spot your favorite planets and constellations.

As the days get longer and warmer, consider perusing the Library of Things before your next outdoor activity. Next time you visit the public library, browse the wide variety of kits (indoor-friendly activities are available, too!). The display is easy to find: it’s located on the wall just west of the first floor desk.

Once you find an item you’d like to take home, bring the tag to the desk. A friendly staff member will hand you the kit and complete your checkout. Library of Things items are available for 1-3 week checkouts, and can renew if you’d like to keep it for longer.

Learn more about the Library of Things and other library collections at estesvalleylibrary.org.

What’s Happening At The Estes Valley Library

space

Bring nature indoors by making all-natural beeswax candles, perfect for welcoming spring. Recommended for adults and teens.

Summer Reading Program

Craft Kickoff Ⓡ

Thursday, May 18, 11:15 a.m.-12:30 p.m., Hondius Room

Repeated Friday, May 19, 11:15 a.m.-12:30 p.m., Hondius Room

Repeated Saturday, May 20, 11:15 a.m.12:30 p.m., Hondius Room

Join us to kick off this year’s Summer Reading Program! Our theme is “Wander the World” and we’ll be creating a kid-friendly, aroundthe-world themed craft. All ages welcome.

Crystal Prism Sunlight Catchers Ⓡ

SPRING 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 Monday, May 29 for Memorial Day KEY

Ⓡ: Registration is required. Visit estesvalleylibrary.org to sign up.

ALL AGES

Sign up at estesvalleylibrary.org

Easing Stress with Mindfulness Meditation Ⓡ

Monday, May 15, 1-2 p.m., Hondius Room

Monday, May 22, 1-2 p.m., Hondius Room

Join this meditation series on Mondays in May with instructor Judy LudwigKeller. No experience required. Recommended for adults and teens.

Scented Beeswax Candles Ⓡ

Tuesday, May 16, 6-7:30 p.m., Maker-

Thursday, May 18, 6-7:30 p.m., Makerspace

Add some sparkle to your windows with these easy-to-create sunlight catchers. All ages welcome.

Epsom Salt Bath Bombs Ⓡ

Tuesday, May 23, 6-7:30 p.m., Makerspace

Turn your bathtub into a spa! Head to the Makerspace to make your own bath bombs for yourself or for a gift to a friend. Recommended for adults and teens.

Mental Health & Our Youth: A Living Room Conversation Ⓡ Thursday, May 18, 5:30-7:30 p.m., Estes Park Middle School

Participate in small-group, facilitated dialogues to discuss youth mental health in our community and how we might better support our young residents. Dinner and English/Spanish translation provided. Presented in collaboration with Estes Valley Restorative Justice Partnership and Estes Park

School District.

Return to the Scene of the Climb with Alison Jean Lester

Wednesday, May 24, 6-7:30 p.m., Fireside Theater & online Commemorate the 60th anniversary of the 1963 American Mount Everest Expedition, and our community’s connection to it, with a unique author talk that celebrates the life and adventures of expedition member James T. Lester.

ADULTS

Sign up at estesvalleylibrary.org

Parenting: Protecting & Empowering Children

Tuesday, May 23, 5:15-7 p.m., EVICS Family Resource Center

Discuss the balance between protecting children and supporting their independence in this special Living Room Conversation. Dinner, childcare, and English/Spanish interpretation provided.

BOOKS & AUTHORS

Sign up at libraryc.org/ estesvalleylibrary

I’m the Girl: Author Talk with Courtney Summers

Saturday, May 20, 12-1 p.m., online

Hear from bestselling and critically acclaimed author Courtney Summers, whose novels for young adults include All the Rage, Sadie, and most recently, I’m the Girl. Presented with the Library Speakers Consortium.

TEENS & KIDS

Sign up at estesvalleylibrary.org

Magic: The Gathering Ⓡ

Saturday, May 13, 3-4 p.m., Makerspace

Learn how to play Magic: The Gathering and find everything you need to get started as a MTG beginner. Seasoned players welcome – teach your friends how to play!

Artwork Wednesday:

DIY Calm Down Bottles Ⓡ

Wednesday, May 17, 4:30-5:30 p.m., Hondius Room

Upcycle water bottles and use glue, glitter, beads, and other supplies to create your own “Calm Down” bottle. Find your zen by watching the contents swirl and settle to the bottom.

Robotics & Tech: Machine Mind

Saturday, May 20, 3-4 p.m., Wasson

Room

Repeated Tuesday, May 23, 5-6 p.m., Wasson Room

Did you know that the CAPTCHA, “prove you aren’t a robot” tests are actually a teaching tool for computers? In this month’s Robotics & Tech, we’ll be teaching machines how to identify stuffed animals.

Last Day of School Party

Thursday, May 25, 1-2:30 p.m., Hondius Room

Celebrate the end of the school year and the start of Summer Reading Program! Get a free book, enjoy pizza and snacks, create art, and play Just Dance on the Wii.

KIDS & FAMILIES

Learn more at estesvalleylibrary.org

Library Storytimes

Baby Storytime: Thurs., Fri., & Sat. at 10 a.m.

Preschoolers: Thurs., Fri., & Sat. at 10:30 a.m.

Storybook Explorers – In My Garden: Sat., May 13 at 11:15 a.m. Ⓡ

Read to Therapy Dog “Bo”: Tues., May 16 at 10 a.m. & Wed., May 24 at 6 p.m.

Pajama Storytime – Making Music with Nancy Bell: Wed., May 17 at 6 p.m.

MAKERSPACE

Sign up at estesvalleylibrary.org

Learn the Laser Cutter Ⓡ Saturday, May 13, 10:30 a.m.-12 p.m.

For ages 10 and up (participants under the age of 15 must be accompanied by an adult).

Learn the 3D Printer Ⓡ Saturday, May 20, 10:30 a.m.-12 p.m. For ages 10 and up (participants under the age of 15 must be accompanied by an adult).

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 is required. Visit estesvalleylibrary.org to sign up.

One of the greatest tributes to mothers I’ve ever read, is found in a little book entitled: ‘Love you forever’, penned by Robert Munsch. In this book a mother holds her newborn baby and sings, “I’ll love you forever, I’ll like you for always, as long as I’m living, my baby you’ll be.” As that child grows through the ‘terrible twos’, with all his challenges, the song never changes. The boy becomes a nine-year old, then, a teenager with ‘strange friends, strange clothes, strange music’, but her song never changes: “I’ll love you forever, I’ll like you for always, as long as I’m living, my baby you’ll be.” It continued all through his adult years, until she was close to the end of her life, when she couldn’t voice the words and a grateful son held his mother and sang: “I’ll love you forever, I’ll like you for always, as long as I’m living, my mommy you will be,” And then went home to his newborn baby and sang: “I’ll love you forever…” How we need this exchange of loving sentiments between parents and children today.

Thankfully, we have it…especially on Mother’s Day every year. No wonder that Mother’s Day is the third most celebrated holiday, after only Christmas and Easter. It’s the day that more telephone calls are made and cards sent than on any other, except Christmas. And that’s as it should be since ‘Love you forever’ mothers have such an impact on our lives…because they ‘speak’ all the ‘love languages’…and even more.

Gary Chapman wrote a book entitled, ‘The Five Languages of Love’. In it he defines those ‘languages’ that people ‘speak’ and ‘respond to’, that show that they ‘love’ and ‘are loved’. Those ‘languages’ are all spoken by mothers described in the ‘Love you forever’ book. Those languages are: ‘Time’; ‘Touch’; ‘Affirming words’; ‘Service’; and ‘Gifts’. We know that in the lives of ‘Love you forever’ mothers, all of these abound. ‘Time’ (nine months before birth, and eighteen years or more after) is spent with the mother as the chief caregiver. ‘Touch’ (ie. ‘hugs’) are given for a lifetime. ‘Affirming words’ are usually the fare during the years that such mothers live. ‘Service’ is that tireless work that mothers have signed up for when they have a child…exhausting work, draining work…that each caring mother does without complaining.

King Solomon wrote a wonderful tribute to the ‘Worthy Woman, whose price is far above rubies’ (Proverbs 31), showing a woman whose concern for, and efforts to serve her family, are endless. And, we’ve all seen those women blessing our lives who meet the qualifications of ‘worthy women’. The next ‘love language’ is ‘Gifts’. And we’ve all had our share of these from our ‘Love you forever’ mothers. While these are more periodic, the other ‘languages’ are ‘spoken’ day in and day out by our mothers…and all too often without a word of thanks or appreciation from us. Something we need to take time to do on this Mothers’ Day.

This week we have been introduced to an additional ‘language’ that is ‘spoken’ by the mothers in our families. Perhaps you’ve heard about Sonia Argentina Guzman. She’s the mother who went to the front door to confront an armed man who was approaching the house. Her plan was to stop the aggressor and to save her family. Sadly, her life was lost, as well as the lives of four other members of her family. So, the other ‘love language’ that is spoken by such mothers is ‘Sacrifice’. Jesus once said: “Greater love has no man than this, that a man will lay down his life for a friend”. (John 15:13) And, while this word defines almost all the other ‘love languages, it is still seen uniquely in the sacrifices that mothers make for their offspring. It happens even in the animal world. A wildfire sweeps through and the charred body of a mother hen is found covering her still-alive chicks. Other animal mothers are seen fighting to the death, to save their offspring.

So, this week, we salute our ‘Everyday Heroes’…Moms…who have served and sacrificed so that we could ‘arrive in’ and ‘survive in’ an otherwise tumultuous world. Irma Bombeck describes a scene where an angel is watching God create woman. The angel notes: “There’s a leak!” God says: “No, it’s a tear!” “What’s it for?” the angel asks. God says: “It’s for joy, sadness, disappointment, pain, loneliness, and pride!” And how many of each all moms have shed. Thank you.

And, so, to all you ‘Everyday Hero’, ‘Love you forever, like you for always’ Moms out there, we wish a very well deserved ‘Happy Mothers’ Day’! Bob Lewis

Rocky Mountain Conservancy Offers New Education And Wellness Retreats In Rocky Mountain National Park

Rocky Mountain Conservancy’s Field Institute and Estes Park Yoga have teamed up to offer a new series of educational wellness programs in Rocky Mountain National Park this summer which combine ecology lessons and mindfulness practices to give participants a unique approach to learning in the park. The full or half-day classes will introduce participants to the ecology of various Rocky Mountain landscapes and help participants connect with nature— and themselves—in the stunning setting of Rocky Mountain National Park. The programs are led by Rocky Mountain Conservancy staff and Diana Laughlin, a registered yoga teacher at the 500-hour level.

Carlie Bangs, education director for the Rocky Mountain Conservancy, said these programs fill an important void. “We know being in nature promotes health and wellness,” she said. “These courses encourage people to unplug from their tech and enjoy some inner discovery while exploring and learning about Rocky’s beautiful environment. Participants will hike, meditate, practice yoga, and learn about the interconnected plants and animals that make Rocky Mountain National Park so special.”

“We designed this course for people who seek balance in their lives but struggle to find the time and mindset to make it happen,” said Laughlin. “This course gives participants the opportunity to feel grounded and more connected to their inner self and the natural world.” Laughlin has taught hatha yoga and meditation in Estes Park for ten years.

“Rocky Mountain National Park is a special place to feel the magnitude of one’s yoga practice,” Laughlin explained. “Often when I’m hiking, cross-country skiing, or camping, I like to step away from my friends for a little bit to be mindful in the moment. I would love to share that experience with those who choose to attend these retreats.”

The programs are designed for participants 16 years and up, and are intended to inspire a deeper connection to wild places and pique participants’ curiosity about natural connections. No previous natural history or yoga experience is required, and participants should expect

to hike three to six miles at a relaxed pace with elevation gain up to 500 feet. Full day programs are offered June 1, July 6, August 3, and September 7. Half-day programs are scheduled for June 3, July 8, August 5, and September 9.For more information and to register for this or other Field Institute courses, visit RMConservancy.org/events/.

The Rocky Mountain Conservancy promotes stewardship of Rocky Mountain National Park and similar lands through education and philanthropy. Since 1931, the Conservancy has raised more than $35 million to enhance and protect the park’s trails, lands, youth education, historic structures, and more. To support or learn more, visit RMConservancy.org.

In her extensive experience of leading classes and workshops, Diana Laughlin particularly enjoys making yoga practice accessible for everyone.

The Rocky Mountain Conservancy offers new educational wellness retreats this summer featuring yoga, mindfulness, and meditation and learning about the ecology of Rocky Mountain National Park.

American Chemical Society Student Of The Year

Estes Park Senior Citizens Center Menu

May 15 – 19

Monday, May 15 Stuffed Meatloaf (w/broccoli, bacon & cheese) w/ Mashed Potatoes, gravy & vegetables

Tuesday, May 16 Carne Asada (skirt steak, marinated & grilled) w/ Corn Tortillas, Rice, Refried Beans, guacamole & sour cream

Wed., May 17 BBQ Pulled Pork Sandwich w/ Mac ‘n Cheese & coleslaw

Thursday, May 18 Chicken Parmesan w/ Spaghetti, garlic bread & side salad

Friday, May 19 Shrimp Basket (8 fried) w/ Homemade Chips & soup of the day

May 22 – 26

Monday, May 22 Hot Roast Beef Sandwich w/ Mashed Potatoes, gravy & vegetables

Tuesday, May 23 Roasted Herb (1/2) Chicken w/ Roasted Potatoes & cottage cheese

On Sunday May 7th

Joanne Kim and her family attended a ceremony at The Colorado School of Mines where she was awarded the American Chemical Society Student of the Year for Estes Park High School. Joanne was selected based on having the highest overall grade in all three Chemistry classes. Joanne works incredibly hard and has shown tremendous dedication to her school work. Joanne has earned a 98.8% average in class.

The American Chemical Society has worked with the School of Mines to host the annual ceremony. Families are given the opportunity to tour the Geology Mu-

Natalia Schrag 12th Grade

Congratulations to Natalia Schrag, the Estes Park High School Student of the Week for May 12, 2023.

Natalia is the daughter of Loren and Alli Schrag.

At EPHS Natalia enjoys being a member of the soccer and volleyball teams. She especially loves being a part of the soccer team because she says it feels like family. Her favorite class is College English Lit. Natalia is proud of getting through high school and building her relationship with God through FCA. Outside of school she loves skateboarding around Lake Estes, painting, watching sunsets and going on drives with friends. Natalia works at the Dunraven on the weekends. She loves seeing her sister when she’s not working and spending time with her parents whenever she can. She also loves playing music and never misses a moment to play with dogs.

When asked a place she’d like to visit she said, “I would love to go to Athens,

seum and there is a reception and guest presentation. This year the presentation was the reenactment of the life of Marie Curie by Susan Marie Frontczak. Each student in attendance was recognized for their accomplishments and was given a medal from the American Chemical Society.

Joanne is interested in pursuing Computer Science at the University of Colorado in the future. She volunteers through Key Club and she is a member of the EPHS Marching Band. She is a bright young woman with incredible potential and a great student at Estes Park High School.

Wed., May 24 Chicken Salad Croissant w/ Pasta Salad

Thursday, May 25 Homemade Meat Lasagna w/ garlic bread & side salad

Friday, May 26 Fish & Homemade Chips w/ soup of the day

Meals are $7 for current 2023 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, May 15th, you need to call before 1:00 PM on Friday, May 12th. 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, Wednesday, Thursday & Friday 10-1; Tuesday 10-2) TriFit (MWF 10:30-11:15); Yoga (TT 10:15-11:15); Mahjong (Tuesdays 10 – 2)

Live Music & Presentations Tuesdays @ 12:00 – 1:30 (TBA)

Two Bridge Groups: 1st, 3rd, & 5th Wed. of the month & Every Thursday 12:30 - 4 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

Javier Hernandez 10th Grade

Congratulations to Javier Hernandez, the Estes Park High School Student of the Week for May 5, 2023.

and girlfriend. He likes to skate and play video games with his brother (especially Super Smash Bros.)

Greece because my Mom went there and said it was beautiful and I think the culture is beautiful as well.”

Natalia’s favorite quote is “Therefore do not worry about tomorrow, for tomorrow will worry about itself. Sufficient for the day is it’s own trouble” from Matthew 6:34. She said, “I love this quote because I think it’s important to remember that anxiety for the next day will set you backwards and living in the moment is important.”

The best piece of advice she’s been given is you have to love yourself before you can truly love other people.

After high school she will be going to Front Range Community College to get her pre-requisites and then onto a university to study forensic psychology.

Javier is the son of Crystell Rascon and Javier Hernandez.

At EPHS Javier enjoys being on the cross country and track teams because he enjoys the competition and the calm he feels when running. In track he loves to run the 800 meters and one mile distances. He’s earned his varsity letter twice for cross country and went to state with the team. In grade school he competed in the state oratorical competition.

Outside of school he likes to draw, paint and hang out with his friends

Javier loves going to the lake to relax, skip stones and listen to music. In the future, he’d love to visit California and Russia.

His favorite quote is, “The man who says he can, and the man who says he can not. Are both correct.” by Confucius. He likes how this quote relates to sports, like track.

The best piece of advice Javier has ever been given was from his grandma when discussing college. He was worrying about it and she told him to not worry too much about the future, always enjoy the present. He said, “To this day, I always come back to this advice when I’m feeling stressed.”

After he graduates from high school, Javier plans to go to college to study engineering. He also would love to travel and visit his grandparents.

By: Pam Frey

Estes

Valley Land

The Estes Valley Land Trust, Bird & Jim and the Estes Park School District recently hosted the second annual Student Nature Film Festival. Twentytwo student filmmakers competed for three scholarships, totaling $8,000. “We had more films submitted this year than in the past and had a difficult time narrowing down which films to show at the festival,” said Joanna Maggetti, Estes Valley Land Trust Business Manager. The films ranged in themes from water conservation to deforestation, to the environmental costs and benefits of electric vehicles. “The variety of films was a pleasure to see; each film was original and reflected the student’s personality,” said Maggetti.

The films were screened in front of a local audience and a panel of four judges. The judges included local nature filmmaker Nick Molle, retired school teacher Steve Johnson, land trust member Alicia Rochambeau, and Bird & Jim co-owner and land trust board member

Festival Awards And $8,000 In Scholarships

Trust Announces Film

Melissa Strong. Each film was scored based upon its cinematography, editing, complexity, and originality. The judges also considered the student’s participation in the film festival’s panel discussion before finalizing their scores. The scores of the three winning films were very close.

The three winning films were produced by five students: Lily-Ann Smith (grand prize of $4,000); Joseph Patrick Cramer (2nd place prize of $2,500); and

Michael Bird, Lucy Leija, and Olivia Shirk (3rd place prize of $500 each).

“High school senior Lily-Ann won this year by a razor thin margin. Ultimately, her thorough research, variety of credible sources, and her film’s strong connection to the natural environment won her the grand prize,” said Executive Director Jeffrey Boring.

The three winning films can be viewed on the Estes Valley Land Trust’s Youtube

page.

About the Estes Valley Land TrustFounded in 1987 by Estes Park residents, the Estes Valley Land Trust is a nationally recognized land conservation organization that has preserved nearly 10,000 acres of land and some of the most iconic landscapes in the Estes Valley. Please consider becoming a member of the land trust at www.evlandtrust.org/donate.

Bella, Caleb, Ginny And Sampson In Need Of New Loving Families

Bella is about eight months and Caleb is about a year old. The are very sweet and good with other dogs. Both weigh about 40 pounds. They will be available for adoption soon.

Ginny is about 11 years old. Her fam-

ily moved overseas and could not take her with them. She takes a little time to warm up, but she is a sweet, good girl and would do great in a quieter home.

Sampson is a one year old lab/Ger-

man Shepherd mix who weighs 70 lbs. He is good with dogs and cats. He needs a little work on his manners but he is very sweet and kennel trained. Please call (970) 286-1652 if you’d like to meet any of these special pets. Don’t shop, please adopt!

All pets are offered through the Pet Association of Estes Park, a non-profit organization that is your local 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.

Student filmmakers respond to questions from a local panel of judges at the Estes

Valley Student Nature Film Festival at the high school.

Bella Caleb Ginny Sampson

EPHS Student Appreciation Program

TDS Telecom has designed a program called “TDS Student Appreciation Program” to reward high school students who are making efforts to keep their grades up. Any student having a GPA of 2.50 or greater can apply online with the school. The high school staff then draws 16 lucky winners each drawing (4 students from each grade) and these students get a $25 gift card. In Estes Park, TDS gives away a $25 gift card for Inkwell & Brew coffee shop. Also, students get a $10 gift card for Macdonald Book Shop.

The total giveaways are worth $2,000 in a school year. TDS fulfills its social responsibility by giving back to the community that we serve and encourages students to keep their grades up and get rewarded for it.

TDS Student Appreciation Program (TSAP) had its award ceremony on May 9, 2023.

List of winners:

Name Grade

Ali Allbright 10th grade

Alison Raymond 10th grade

Cash Faith 10th grade

Dafne Rangel 10th grade

Owen Brandewie 10th grade

Elizabeth Miles 11th grade

Tour & Art Show June 17th

challenges to cultivate life/work skills, environmental stewardship, and community service. At the Good Enough Farm, located behind Boys & Girls Club - Pulliam, young people are provided horticultural therapy, nature-based education, and an opportunity to connect with the environment by getting their hands in the soil.

Enough Farm.

Explore "Hidden Gardens" across Loveland during the 19th Annual Loveland Garden Tour & Art Show June 17th! Get a glimpse into six beautiful private gardens, including a formal European-style garden, a rose garden, and spaces for entertaining, plus an urban farm. Kick off the fun at Loveland Youth Gardeners’ Good Enough Farm, where an artists market and local vendors will be featured for the first time Saturday, June 17th from 8:00 a.m. - 4:00 p.m.

This fun, educational, communitybuilding event is the primary fundraiser for Loveland Youth Gardeners, a local nonprofit serving youth in Northern Colorado. LYG empowers youth facing

tures raised garden beds, a native plants garden, a medicinal plants garden, chickens, beehives, vermiculture, and much more. From early childhood, adolescence, and young adulthood, youths are offered a wide variety of programs and ways to get involved.

For more information on the Loveland Garden Tour & Art Show, programs, and events, visit www.lovelandyouthgardeners.org or contact Kelly Robenhagen at director@lovelandyouthgardeners.org.

For more information on the Loveland Garden Tour & Art Show and other events, visit www.lovelandyouthgardeners.org. For info on Loveland Youth Gardeners, contact Kelly Robenhagen at director@lovelandyouthgardeners.org or (970) 6923715.

Ella

Mountain Blooms Garden Tour

In Lyons June 17

“More grows in the garden than the gardener sows” Spanish proverb

The 3rd Annual “Mountain Blooms” Garden Tour organized by the Lyons Garden Club will be held on Saturday, June 17, 2023 from 9:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m., rain or shine. Treat your senses to the beauty that is all around you and take home the knowledge you will gain.The self-guided tour features 10 sites of garden delights and offers a chance for people to tour private gardens that they would not normally get to see. Each garden is a labor of love and the tour will offer opportunities to see native plants, vegetable gardens, cutting garden beds, drought-tolerant foliage, xeriscape, creative hardscaping, and lots of color and natural beauty.

Tickets are now available through Tick-

etTailor. There is a direct link to the registration site through the garden club website: www.lyonsgardenclub.com. There is no fee for tickets, but the club will greatly appreciate donations. Options for donations are available on the registration site.

Proceeds from the event will go towards maintaining our current gardens, purchase of tools, seeds and other supplies, support of other gardening projects throughout Lyons and support of our scholarship program at Lyons High School/Middle School. Our motto, since our founding, is “Making Lyons Beautiful, One Flower at a Time.” The Mountain Blooms tour certainly is in keeping with that motto. Please join us for this exciting and fun event, which will involve the whole community.

“Hidden Gardens” Throughout Loveland To Be Featured During Loveland Garden

Students and volunteers planting raised beds at Good

Elliott Flavin 11th grade

Kaylie Wallace 11th grade

Anna Roberts-Briggs 12th grade

Carlos Ruelas 12th grade

Gabriel Housewright 12th grade

Joseph Cramer 12th grade

Meah Weaver 12th grade

Abbi Scott 9th grade

Brooke Fields 9th grade

Battin 9th grade

Reclaim Your Best Life Close To Home With EPH Rehab

Whether you need monitored exercise, deep massage or the right machine to help you reclaim your health and function, the specialists at Estes Park Health’s Rehabilitation Services are ready to help you get back to good.

“The help I’ve gotten here has been incredible,” said Shirl Lawrence of Estes Park. She had both knees replaced. Now, she is turning to physical therapist Kathy Giesige of Estes Park Health to work out some of the stiffness that’s been restricting her activity.

“She’s top-notch, definitely,” Shirl commented. “Riding a bike is my main goal. And getting in and out of a kayak.”

Kathy has worked in physical therapy for four decades. She enjoys working

ago. He comes to rehab twice a week and says it’s going well.

“Recently it’s been a lot of cardio, a lot of squats, lunges,” he said. “My big goal is just to get back to 100 percent.”

Seventeen therapists work in outpatient and inpatient rehabilitation at Estes Park Health. Those who work at the Rehab Services clinic enjoy the spacious facility next to the Urgent Care.

The Urgent Care opened in 2020 and Rehab Services moved down from the main EPH campus at that same time.

“We’re very hands-on, creative people who care about our community,” stated Kendra Vancil, EPH Rehabilitation Manager. “We have a beautiful new facility. Each therapist has their own private room as well as this beautiful, stateof-the-art gym.”

Speech language pathologist Annie Boyd uses her decades of experience to help patients like Susan Raso of Estes Park.

determine how to address disorders called dysphagia. Annie said her patients are grateful for specialized rehab close to home.

“They’ve gone to, say, Loveland, Longmont, Fort Collins,” Annie said. “And then they get referred here or discover, ‘Oh, you have therapy. You have a rehab facility here in Estes Park.’ And they’re so appreciative of that.”

Occupational therapist Paul Asher works with patients who need upper-body strength and coordination. As he puts it, his target area is from the shoulders to the fingertips. Paul has many tools to help people with everything from fine motor skills to dexterity.

Paul’s counterpart at the hospital is occupational therapist Therese Cinotto who works with patients recovering from orthopedic issues, strokes or neurological problems like Parkinson’s Disease.

Susan explained that she tries to get people to do 30 or 40 minutes of exercise raising their heart rate to a safe level.

“That’s what’s going to build up their heart and lungs,” Susan said. “I think the

with the patients in Estes Park.

“They’re very motivated,” Kathy pointed out. “They have good goals and want to get back into life, enjoying the outdoors. PT is basically treatment of the extremities including the spine. And it’s meant to regain motion, strength, balance.”

Recently, one of the patients enjoying the spacious new rehab gym at Steamer Drive is 17-year-old Bram Jackson, a high school senior.

“I tore my ACL while wrestling,” he explained.

Bram relies on his physical therapist to guide him through recovery from a surgery at Estes Park Health three months

“I had a stroke ten years ago,” Raso said. “I couldn’t work anymore. I think my brain is still here, but as far as my mouth, it doesn’t seem to be working.”

Annie uses her skills to help with communication and cognition.

“I see a lot of patients here who are post-concussion,” she noted. “That can be from falls during the winter. It can be young people. It can be people who are in their early 20s all the way up to the elderly.”

A speech-language pathologist also helps patients with swallowing issues. Some people take what’s called a modified barium swallow study, providing the experts with a moving x-ray to help

Estes Park Health Passes Vaccine For Children Survey With Flying Colors

The Vaccines For Children (VFC) program is a federally funded program that provides vaccines at no cost to children who might not otherwise be vaccinated because of inability to pay. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention buys vaccine at a discounted rate for distribution to registered VFC providers. Recently, the Colorado state administrative arm came to Estes Park Health for an annual survey visit.

“The annual visit from the VFC program ensure that we are being good stewards of the vaccines provided to us,” said Wendy Ash, RN, Population Health Manager for Estes Park Health. “Our survey was fantastic. We have a great team of people who take care of our vaccines in the clinic. We all work really

hard to make sure that we take good care of those vaccines and make sure children get the vaccines they need. The state was very impressed.”

To be eligible for the program, children must be younger than 18 years old, part of the Medicaid program or uninsured.

When surveyors visit Estes Park Health, they look at records to make sure EPH is documenting immunizations correctly. The records of children who get vaccinated at Estes Park Health or other places in Colorado are uploaded to a state registry. Any child throughout the state who gets these vaccines can have a record of that wherever they travel.

The surveyors also look at vaccine storage and handling processes. They

“As an occupational therapist, your job is to be a problem solver for the patient,” Therese stressed. “And so you help them work out what is interfering with their ability to complete their roles and their routines that they do throughout their day.”

Estes Park Health also offers outpatient cardiac rehab on the main campus.

Currently, 85-year-old Lowell Krandell of Estes Park is being guided by Cardiac Rehab nurse Susan Armitage. He had a stent placed in an artery in his heart and his physician referred him for rehab after the procedure.

“You won’t believe my tutor,” Lowell said while smiling. “Susan is really a charming person as well as technically proficient. I’m sure I could do it with somebody else, but I’d rather have Susan taking care of me.”

watch how providers gives vaccines. They check the vaccine inventory.

“Vaccines are one of the most important and also one of the easiest things we can do to keep ourselves and our loved ones and our community safe,” Wendy noted.

thing I like the best is that they always get better. Usually they’re nervous about, you know, what’s going to happen. And we just take it really slowly. And everyone does at their own pace. By the end of cardiac rehab, everyone feels better.”

Lowell is noticing the difference. Like all Estes Park Health rehab patients, he said his amazing views of the mountains serve as a motivation to get better.

“I’m spoiled,” he added. “I can’t believe what a view I have and how clean and spacious this room is.”

The closeness and convenience of local rehabilitation is a big help to the Estes Valley community.

“It just takes me a few minutes to get here from my home,” physical therapy patient Shirl said. “And then to be able to sit and enjoy the sun, the snow or whatever’s happening out there, is very special.”

For top-notch physical therapy, occupational therapy, speech therapy and cardiac therapy, choose Estes Park Health. Reclaim your best life, close to home.

For more information, log on to www.eph.org/rehabilitation-services/.

To watch a video, go to youtu.be/kjQK4zTtztQ.

To be eligible for the Vaccines For Children program, children must be younger than 18 years old, part of the Medicaid program or uninsured.

“We encourage people to get the vaccines that are recommended. That is the way to protect a whole population.”

If you have a question about that and you don’t have an appointment coming

up, you can call and ask to speak to one of the nurses to check your immunization status.

The number for the Physicians Clinic is 970-586-2200. You can ask for the nurse who works with your specific provider.

Photo courtesy Wendy Rigby

17-year-old Bram Jackson, a high school senior, is using EPH Rehabilitation Services to recover from surgery on his knee after an ACL tear.

85-year-old Lowell Krandell uses EPH’s cardia rehab to recovery from a surgery to place a stent in an artery in his heart. Photos by Wendy Rigby

Stanley Heights house on 1.16 acres. One level living with views of the Mountains & Lake Estes. Great room with fireplace and hardwood floors, updated kitchen with granite counters, oversized 2 car garage. Wonderful outdoor areas including privacy fenced yard with patio and a covered front porch. Move in ready.

221 Twin Owls Lane, F10

Exceptional Estes Park condominium at the Lodges at Black Canyon Inn. Offered fully furnished, used as an income rental with numerous rental bookings for 2003 & 2024. Open floor plan with a Great room that features hardwood floors, fireplace and dining. Private bedroom suites with luxurious baths. Relax on the deck and enjoy the mountain views in a beautiful settting.

$749,900

Grey Fox Drive

What do all those abbreviations after your REALTOR's® name mean anyway?

A good REALTOR® is all about continuing education to give you the best experience possible when buying or selling your home.

GRI: Graduate REALTOR® Institute designation indicates to buyers, sellers, and other real estate industry professionals that you have made the commitment to provide a high level of professional service to your clients by securing a strong educational foundation. The GRI program includes 60105 hours of coursework on topics from marketing and servicing listed properties, to real estate law.

CNE: Certified Negotiation Expert, Negotiation skills are fundamental to performing fiduciary agency, and protecting and serving buyers and sellers.

ABR: The Accredited Buyer’s Representative (ABR®) designation is for real estate buyer's agents who focus on working directly with buyer-clients at every stage of the home-buying process. NAR GREEN DESIGNATION: NAR's GREEN Designation is designed for agents looking to learn about issues of energy efficiency and sustainability in real estate.

CMAS: Certified Mountain Area Specialist, Mountain and rural areas are properties with unique features such as domestic and household wells, septic systems and leach fields, fire mitigation concerns, and easement issues, just to name a few.

SRS: The Seller Representative Specialist designation is the premier credential in seller representation. The SRS Course redefines your "normal" and reinvent the way you represent sellers. It provides a comprehensive foundation of skill development, training and resources to help real estate professionals represent the interests of sellers in today’s marketplace.

Next time you need to buy or sell a house, keep this in mind when selecting THE BEST REALTOR® to represent you, it makes a difference.

2590 Larkspur Avenue

$939,000

| 4 bed ~ 4 bath ~ 3,624sf

Gracefully among the towering pines and overlooking dedicated Open Space, welcome to 2590 Larkspur... Over 3600sf of recently updated living space, with a soaring greatroom & stone fireplace, kitchen of quartz, stainless and a huge island for casual visiting. Main level, luxurious primary suite with spa‐like bath and private access out back. Upper billiard room/loft area plus a lower level family/rec room provides spaces for everyone. Three additional bedroom & baths and tons of storage throughout. Oversized 2‐car garage with stand‐up storage above, expansive wrap‐around deck and a serene .94/acre Lot complete the package. Babbling seasonal creek lulls away the afternoons on the deck...

CHRISTIAN COLLINET

Sincere And HEARTfelt Thanks

To The Editor:

My husband Buddy of 55 years is a retired electrical engineer and He also served in the U. S.Army National Guard 32 years, retiring as a Chief Warrant Officer.

We decided to visit the majestic Rocky Mountains of Colorado to celebrate our 55th wedding anniversary. We invited my sister and her husband and a very dear friend to come with us. We chose Worldmark by Wyndham in Estes Park, Co. as our destination.

Around 8:15 on Thursday April 27, 2023, my husband had a cardiac arrest at the condo. I guess you might say he had a power outage. Buddy retired from a power company after 32 years, where he designed sub stations, power lines and under ground power. While serving in the military he lead and trained many devoted and dedicated service men and women of our beautiful country for service. Just as our men and women are called to guard, defend and protect America, many prayer warriors across our country were called to active duty of intercession of prayer.

This week here in the beautiful state of Colorado I witnessed my husbands lights or life turned off. But God who commended His love toward us, in that while we were yet sinners, Christ died for us. And Jesus said I am the way, the truth, and the life. I believe my husband was restored, reconnected to the source of life, by the power of Almighty God.

I believe nothing takes my Heavenly Father by surprise and He orchestrated every step to bring my husband back to life. God has blessed Estes Park Community and UCHealth Rocky Mountain Medical Center with well trained, dedicated, compassionate and devoted men and women to the medical field to be a lifeline. The staff at Worldmark, the first responders, physicians from every field, nurses, chaplains and care givers all working in unison and each one performing their duty as a team to reconnect my devoted husband to the source of life. The prayer warriors around our country flipped the switch of faith and power was restored. Darkness became light, death became life and my husband is alive today.

Glory to God!

Words cannot express my heartfelt appreciation for these medical teams, police department, sheriff department and Rocky Mountain Wildlife Commission, prayer warriors and my dear family and friend, who have stood with and behind me during this miraculous event.

May God bless each and everyone of you and reveal His plan, design and purpose for your life through His Son and my Saviour and Lord, Jesus Christ.

For HIS Glory,

Alma A. Packham

Starke, Florida

Romans 5:8

Jeremiah 33:3

If There Are No Dogs In Heaven, Then When I Die I Want To Go Where They Are!

My Gingerbear crossed the Rainbow Bridge on May 1st, 2023 peacefully in my arms.

Gingerbear was there to comfort and brighten everyone’s life she crossed. How she loved all the attention everyone gave her, it left her with a smile! The love she got made her feel like the Queen. For that, she will never be forgotten and she will forever live on in our hearts.

Even though the tears are still flowing down my cheeks for the sadness of her not being here, they are also for the happiness I will always have for my Gingerbear.

I want to give a special thanks to

PMCU, Safeway, and all the establishments we visited for the special love and care given to her. Also, a special thank you to Dr. Theresa Flicek for helping Gingerbear cross over the Rainbow Bridge peacefully and comfortably.

Love,

Mommy/ Cappy Kneller

BUSINESS

iii has been “inhancing” the image of Estes Park businesses and organizations for over 26 years. It can be buttons or badges, patches or pens, blankets or bottles, clothing of color, logos and labels. You need it customized then iii is the place to go.

2010 Marys Lake Rd

Horse Property! Million Dollar 360-degree mountain views! 1 mile to Town, 2 miles Rocky Mountain National Park & near fishing lake. This mountain home offers 2 primary suites, one primary suite has separate entry, 1 bedroom, sitting area, kitchenette & full bath, has been used as a guest ste. Property has a pasture, arena, barn (has electricity), corral, loafing shed surrounded by mature pine trees. Compassionate, horse-loving Seller rescued horses. Several amazing building sites for expansion.

1433

• Spacious Mountain Retreat 3,055 sq. ft., 1.03 acres

• Hike out your back door up Prospect Mountain to the ‘Thumb’

• 4 separate entertainment areas, plus a hot tub room, 4 beds/3 baths

• Turn-key, just bring your clothes

Dream Team

Making dreams come true for over 20 years!

Estes Park Men’s Golf Association May 8 Results

John Peterson 72

Steve Poznic 72

A USA History Of Ecological Change

Ed Myers 63

Tony Fink 66

Al Wagner 67

Virgil Yarborough 67

Don Saucier 67

Pete Smith 68

Steve Nagel 68

Jim Toresdahl 69

Guy Tritico 70

Tom McNeil 70

Tony Palmer 70

Mike Bryson 71

Jim Jameson 71

George Smith 71

Aaron Tulley 71

Drew Webb 71

Bob Butler 72

Rod Unruh 72

Chris Layton 73

Jack Holmquist 73

Larry Nosbish 73

Robert Wilczek 73

Josh Tracy 74

Stan Gengler 74

Henry Glover 74

Robin Harding 74

Nelson Burke 74

Dick Smith 74

Kevin McEachern 74

Austin Logan 75

Mike Johnston 75

Greg Shipman 75

Stan Osborne 75

Scott Logan 75

Dave Arterburn 75

Special Olympics Bowling Fun

When the “New World” was discovered, a large part of the attraction was the lush, uncontaminated growth upon the land. That would apply to anyone else who came upon the natural treasures of our environment. Even in those early centuries (1400-1800), there was a feeling in Europe of a “loss of nature.” Way back in 1854, Thoreau’s Walden generated a more conscious interest in nature and environment. In 1872, the first National Park was created. The Sierra Club was started by John Muir in 1892. Dating back to the Rivers and Harbors Act of 1899 (and possibly before), our United States Congress has passed laws to protect the environment. The Bureau of Forestry was created in 1905 during Teddy Roosevelt’s administration.

The Solid Waste Disposal Act of 1965 (SWDA) began to look at the problems created by the lack of landfill control. As a result, we began to take this seriously. Under NEPA (National Environmental Protection Act), all Federal projects since 1970 (including the current bridge replacement in Estes Park) have required an assessment of environmental impact before proceeding. The President’s Council on Environmental Quality (CEQ) is responsible to ensure that the agency completing the project, in this case CDOT (Colorado Department of Transportation), fulfills this requirement and follows through to mitigate effects, but this also requires Town involvement to be sure the results are amenable to us.

The First Earth Day occurred in April of 1970, showing that citizens were becoming conscious of pollution. This annual celebration raises awareness today. The 1970s included the establishment of the Occupational Heath and Safety Administration (OSHA) and the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA). It signified the passage of the Clean Air Act, the Federal Insecticide, Fungicide, and Rodenticide Act (FIFRA), the Endangered Species Act, the Toxic Substances Control Act (TSCA), and the Safe Drinking Water Act (SDWA). The Clean Water Act was originally passed in 1948 as the Federal Water Pollution Control Act, but was amended/expanded in 1972 and in 1977. The Resource Conservation and Recovery Act (1976) ensured that the EPA could control the generation, transportation, treatment, storage, and disposal of that which was defined as hazardous (ignitable, corrosive, reactive, or toxic).

The 1980s brought a whole new development in Environmental Law with the Comprehensive Environmental Response, Compensation and Liability Act (commonly called Superfund), followed by the Superfund Amendments and Reauthorization Act. In 1984 the SWDA and the RCRA were amended to set some standards for waste disposal under the supervision of the EPA. Then, in 1985 came the discovery of an Arctic Ozone Hole and, in 1986, the explosion at Chernobyl, followed by the Emergency Planning and Community Rightto-Know Act (EPCRA). Likewise, the 1989 Exxon Valdez accident was followed in 1990 by the Oil Pollution Act. Obviously, this was now on everyone’s mind.

The purpose of the Pollution Prevention Act of 1990 was to redirect efforts toward prevention and minimization, addressing the source and controlling pollution before it became a problem. Under this law, the Office of Pollution Prevention was established under the EPA to study possible solutions. Although the concentration was still on hazardous waste, the EPA expanded their purview to include non-hazardous

pollution. We had, by then, accepted that there was a national problem and we needed to DO something. President Clinton created a working group within the Federal Administration to study and resolve the inequity of Environmental Justice in Minority Populations and Low Income Populations (EJMOLIP) by Executive Order in 1994.

In recent years, there have been further changes, expanding the realization that the pollution problem encompasses far more than waste diversion. The pandemic sequestration cleared the air (world-wide) improving visibility and validating the contribution of man-kind to the ever-worsening air and water pollution. Our dependence upon fossil fuels has become an impediment. We must adapt our energy generation, for both vehicles and buildings, to use renewable sources.

Al Gore introduced the country to “An Inconvenient Truth” in 2006. In 2007, the Bald Eagle, a USA national emblem, was declared to no longer be in danger of extinction. Did that mean the world was mending and everything was fine? The Energy Independence and Security Act (EISA) was passed, in 2007, aiming to increase U.S. energy security, develop renewable energy production and improve vehicle fuel economy. Still this subject was largely overlooked.

2015 brought the discovery of the Great Garbage Patch, a plastic island in the middle of the Northern Pacific Ocean. Today, we know that the size of this accumulation of trash is 620 square miles. This is larger than the entire Estes Valley. There are 4 additional “patches” in the Southern Atlantic, the Northern Atlantic, the Southern Pacific, and the Indian Oceans.

Withn the same year as that realization, 195 nations signed the Paris Agreement to work together, each pledging their efforts to cut greenhouse gas emissions and setting finite goals. The current intent is to rein in the Earth’s temperature below 1.5 degrees above pre-Industrial Age. At 1.1 degree, we are now past 73% of the agreed upon limit, but the upward curve does not leave much time. Most of the modern laws, passed in recent years have been an attempt to meet these goals. At each annual meeting, the sentiment and commitment to preserve the Earth gets stronger.

Ecology is now a consistent subject in our US and Colorado Legislatures. Local governments are weighing in as well. Most Cities and Towns who want to appear ecologically active have some form of a sustainability manager whether designated as “Environmental” or simply as “Green.” These individuals, committees, or governmental divisions are dedicated to keeping up with the ever increasing ecological news and informing the community of new laws, new grants, and other options available.

We have, overall, been good stewards of the resources that we borrow from our children, and their children, and their children. However, we now find ourselves at a crossroad to protect their future. We must be forever conscious of the condition of our surroundings, especially in this particular corner of the urban-rural interface, considered “green” across the nation and the state. We must be aware of the infringements of global warming, including the ozone (O3) and particulate matter (PM2.5) levels in Rocky Mountain National Park (RMNP). We must be willing to do what must be done for the sake of future generations.

Agree? Disagree? Comments?

RRRcyc@signsandwishes.com

Living To Our Highest Potential

By: Brian Schaffer

Each week we receive very encouraging notes from people who financially support the work we’re doing. Here is one that comes from an outstanding citizen in our community. “Thank you for the wonderful work that you do. I’m not sure how many in our community would survive without your assistance. I so wish I could do more to support the important ministry you provide. When we first arrived, I know that there were a few times we needed a bit of help to make it through the week. Here’s a small check, please use it wherever it is needed. ”

We are so very grateful for each person who chooses to give a portion of their finances to Crossroads. We do our very best to make sure every dollar is used to benefit our Neighbors in Need. This year we have set a number of records in the amount of needs represented among our neighbors. We’ve seen our numbers triple and even quadruple from previous year’s numbers. It’s sad to think we have so many neighbors in need, but the happy side of this story is that together

we’re keeping up with the challenge by providing groceries, keeping the lights on, sustaining safe housing and making sure people stay hopeful during the uncertainties of life they are facing. Just last week we were able to gather around a family table with a person in our community who would be living in their car if it wasn’t for concerned neighbors who partnered with us to make sure this individual was taken care of. Finding someone housing isn’t the end of the story for many of the people we work with. And for this special person, we are helping them remove barriers that have kept them from moving forward in many areas of their life. It’s a matter of speaking into a person’s life with words of loving kindness and wisdom so as to help them believe in themselves long enough to reenvision the possibilities of what could be if the necessary steps are taken to get there. It’s not an easy road, but it is a road worth taking that leads to an abundant life. Little by little we’re taking baby steps with people in hopes that each person can live fully into their highest potential.

A Thank You From Big Duck Bill Solms

It was another record year for the Estes Park Duck Race Festival! 10,099 adopted ducks raced down the river to raise $195,712 for participating organizations.

As Big Duck this year, I have been fortunate to have available the expertise of several eager volunteers who have enthusiastically transformed the way the Estes Park Rotary Duck Race Festival is put together and managed.

Our Named Sponsor, Claire’s, along with several major and associate sponsors, and Delaware North/ The Ridgeline Hotel, provided the funds and certificates for the major cash prizes and wonderful trips awarded to the first five finishers. The business community added another 330 other prizes to steer enthusiasts to their stores.

The tech volunteers (Bob Fulton, Jeff Lindberg, and Lawrence Trifiletti) by using commercial applications facilitated the processing of electronic duck adoptions, attributions to participating organizations promoting the event, financial accountability, internal and public communications, and the organizational records preservation necessary to be able to repeat this event each year.

Rotary Club volunteers, the Town of Estes, Visit Estes Park, participating non-profit volunteers, and their friends from the community put together the various entertainment events, merchandise sales, venues to allow non-profits to meet race day fans, collected debris from the Fall River and cleared obstructions.

Another key to this event is for Big Duck to select and encourage Little Duck to the point that Little Duck can run the event the following year…. Scott Robbins is that person for the ’24 Duck Race. Scott summarizes the ‘23 race’s results as follows:

The Duck Race Festival continues to grow and because of it, community or-

ganizations, merchants, and sponsors prosper. In this, the 35th annual duck race, we surpassed our donation goal of $175,000 with earnings of $196,262., We put a record 10,129 of ducks in the water, and we even coaxed the sun to come for brief periods of time during the race.

Other highlights of this race were an interview with the Governor expertly conducted by our President, Dennis Gellhaus and Big Duck Bill Solms. Governor Polis congratulated us on the community event the duck race has evolved into. We were also fortunate to have our District Governor, Lee Varra Nelson join us to release the ducks from the cage. Mayor Koenig provided some nice congratulatory words at the duck Drop as well.

Our announcers seamlessly moved into some new roles, with Kurtis Kelly moving from the Start Line to the Finish at Riverside Plaza and Dennis Gellhaus taking on emcee chores at the Duck Drop.

Top organizational beneficiaries this year were two Estes Park Schools projects: the Europe trip with $16,082 and contributions to the bands of $12.936. They were followed by the Pet Association, the Glen Haven Fire Department, and Crossroads Ministry. Our own Rotary Foundation came in at number nine with $4,752. Way to go, Rotarians!

A final shout out to everyone on the Committee, all of our team leaders, and the hundreds of volunteers who made this year a successful one. So let’s bask in the glow of our success for at least a few days and make next year’s event even better!

To all who participated and contributed, including the prize winners, thank you for making Race Day special this year!

Bill Solms, Big Duck 2023

Photos by John Berry/Visit Estes Park

Estes Park has lost one of its most respected citizens. Pieter Hondius passed away comfortably on May 9, 2023, on the birthday of his beloved wife, Helen, three months after his own 100th birthday. That event was celebrated by a gathering of his many friends and admirers at the Estes Park Museum, where as a tribute of gratitude and affection he was presented with some 150 birthday cards. A proclamation in his honor followed, presented by Mayor Wendy Koenig at a meeting of the Estes Park Board of Trustees at Town Hall, an event that Pieter also attended.

Pieter Hondius was born in Denver on February 10, 1923, the only child of Estes Park pioneers Pieter Hondius, Sr. and Eleanor Estes James. His father, a direct descendant of the famous Dutch map maker Jodocus Hondius, had come to America from the Netherlands in 1895, seeking relief from chronic asthma. Settling in Estes Park to ranch and farm, he purchased property in Horseshoe Park and Beaver Meadows to become the largest private property owner in what in 1915 became Rocky Mountain National Park. He also came to own property along the High Drive which he developed for cottage sites, creating the subdivision known as Woodland Heights by building an ingenious pipe-line that brought water from Upper Beaver Meadows and Buck Creek.

Pieter's mother was no less accomplished. Her father, William E. James, was the founder of historic Elkhorn Lodge, for a time the largest resort in the Estes Valley. At his death in 1895, Eleanor stepped in to help operate the Lodge: first with her mother, Ella James and her older brother, Dr. Homer James, and, later, for many years, with her younger brother, Howard. Eleanor Hondius' contributions to the life of Estes Park were many, beginning in 1913 with the creation of the Estes Park Woman's Club and, later, the Estes Park Library. In 2021 the Estes Park community recognized her many accomplishments by commissioning her statue and making it the centerpiece of the Women's

Pieter Hondius

Monument Project, recognizing the historic contributions of women to the life of Estes Park.

Pieter Hondius, Jr. grew up in Estes Park, spending much of his youth at and around Elkhorn Lodge, while living in the Hondius family home directly across the street. He graduated from Estes Park High School in 1942, in a class of 18, then attended the University of Colorado Boulder for a year before entering the United States Navy during World War II. With the Navy he saw five years of active service as a radio technician and electronics engineer while stationed in Chicago and later in the Central Pacific near Hawaii, a place that he had visited with his parents in 1927 at age 4, during their trip around the world. Following his discharge, Hondius returned to the University of Colorado where he graduated in 1949 with a degree in finance, having been elected to Delta Sigma Pi, a professional business fraternity.

After college, Pieter Hondius left Estes Park for Denver and joined L. C. Fullenwider, one of the city's oldest realty companies, for some 35 years specializing in mountain and resort properties. While in Denver he courted and married Helen Ricker a native of Minnesota and graduate of Hamline University, an accomplished medical social worker who served on the staffs of Presbyterian Hospital, the National Jewish Hospital, and Children's hospital. They had met through mutual friends, who encouraged Pieter to pursue her. “Don’t be an idiot,” Pieter recalled them saying. “And," he added, "they were right.”

Pieter and Helen, who died in late 2020, were married for 47 years. As distinguished in her world as Pieter was in his, for her many years of work preventing child abuse Colorado Governor

Richard Lamm proclaimed April 30,

1985 as Helen Hondius Day.

Pieter Hondius' world was an equally large one. Like his mother and father before him, he took civic life and its responsibilities seriously and willingly served: for a number of years with the National Ski Patrol at Dillon's Arapahoe Basin, on an advisory council of the U.S. Forest Service, as a member of the Colorado Open Space Council, and as President of the historic Colorado Mountain Club, an organization whose early members played a key role in establishing Rocky Mountain National Park. With the CMC he threw the weight of the Club behind a grassroots letter-writing effort to persuade Congress to appropriate $4 million to purchase a conservation easement to help preserve MacGregor Ranch, one of the historic treasurers of the Estes Valley. “This is one of those motherhood and flag things that shouldn’t have taken so long to get done,” Hondius said at the time, as usual downplaying the role that he himself had played. During this same period, Pieter Hondius became an active proponent for gaining federal protection for the much-used Indian Peaks area west of Boulder, a mountain wilderness that Enos Mills had originally wanted included in Rocky Mountain National Park. For this and other preservation efforts in 1975 Pieter Hondius was awarded the Oak Leaf Service Awarded by the Nature Conservancy of Arlington, Virginia, an organization with some 23,000 members nationwide.

In retirement Pieter and Helen returned to Estes Park, making their home in the Uplands. Once again both Pieter and Helen continued to serve. Pieter as a member of the boards of the Library Foundation, the Estes Park Urban Renewal Authority (EPURA), where he was an on-going advocate for the preservation of open space, the Rocky Moun-

tain Nature Association (now the Rocky Mountain Conservancy), the Estes Valley Land Trust, and the Estes Park Museum. Over the years Hondius made the collections of the Museum the recipient of James and Hondius family memorabilia, including, most importantly, James family photograph albums and the Elkhorn Lodge's guest registers. For such contributions he was recognized in 2012 with the Estes Park Museum's Pioneer Award, given to those who have widened the community's knowledge, understanding, and appreciation of the history of the Estes Valley.

For all his many accomplishments Pieter Hondius remained a modest and self-effacing man, with a gentle and engaging wit and sense of humor. Embodying as he did so much of Estes Park's history, he ever took the long view of things. Though often asked to speak about the "early days" of Estes Park, the world of his parents, grandparents, and various members of the James family, he refused to romanticize them. "The Old West was a mess," he once said, suggesting that to see it otherwise was to underappreciate the realities of everyday life and the down-toearth hardscrabble accomplishments of pioneers like his father, who to earn a living in the Estes Valley each year took upwards of 350 head of cattle back and forth between Horseshoe Park and Loveland using the old Bald Mountain-Pole Hill Road.

Though Pieter and Helen Hondius had no children, they have left all of us with much to remember and much to celebrate. Perhaps most of all as models of civic responsibility and public service, cheerfully given. For that a grateful community will always honor them.

A graveside service for Pieter Hondius at Estes Park Memorial Gardens will be announced at a later date. It is suggested that those who wish to make a gift to honor Pieter's memory consider either the Estes Valley Library or the Estes Park Museum, two organizations particularly important over the years to both Helen and Pieter, and to which both were major contributors.

Transformation Is A Way Of Life

By: Larry Yarrington

I like Flatirons Community Church for many reasons but perhaps the most important to me is the practicality, tied to the Bible, in the sermons. The current series in Proverbs has strengthened my joy because proverbs are filled with wisdom about everything you can encounter in life. Today’s topic was about the use of words. We have all experienced the uplift we feel with some words and the deep hurt we can feel from other words. So, it is not surprising that the Bible talks a lot about the disciplined use of our tongue. Proverbs alone cite the idea of how to, and how not to use words 374 times. Obviously, it would be impossible to treat each verse in a half an hour sermon.

Through diligent study, our teaching pastor, Ben Foote, broke it down into four broad categories.

Given the power of words, it is good to hear a teaching on how to use words wisely, so that we build up rather than tear down. The first category was the idea that words are to be used honestly. An example comes from Proverbs 16:33. “Kings take pleasure in honest lips; they value a man who speaks the truth. ” Also, from Proverbs 12:22, “The Lord detests lying lips, but delights in men who are truthful.” How can relationships be healthy and beneficial if the parties in the relationship are not truthful. It is not enough that everything I say to my wife is truthful, but, as they say in court, it must be true, but also the whole and complete truth and nothing but the truth. If I leave something out, it is deception that may require many lies to cover up.

Secondly, for words to be wise, they must be timely. Proverbs 25:11 says, “A word aptly spoken is like apples of gold in settings of silver. ” Proverbs15:23 puts it this way, “A man finds joy in giving an apt reply – and how good is a timely word. ” Most of us have had moments when we spoke when we should have stayed quiet. I like to find jokes to make people laugh but many create discomfort instead. The joke may have been good, but the timing was poor. Good comedians get this. Many an argument with my wife or a friend has been caused by saying something that might even need to be said. But if the timing is not right, it will fall on deaf ears or cause deep hurt. It is wise to know when to shut up.

The third category Ben mentioned was a wise man delivers his words in a state of calmness. Proverbs 15:16, Proverbs 17:27 gives us these words to ponder. “A

hot-tempered man stirs up dissention, but a patient man calms a quarrel… a man of understanding is even-tempered. ” My dad was a very angry man. I learned well from him to hide in anger. In anger I believe (falsely) that I cannot be hurt but I can cause an awful lot of hurt. And eventually, I cannot hide in anger anymore unless I want to be very lonely. Worse, my chance to have influence is destroyed. I know that I have hurt people, not in outrage, my temper does not work that way. It may result in a raised voice but more often, I simply just get cold and shut you out. I have also seen proof of these proverbs in my life when I was able to harness my temper by taking a few moments to let the emotion bleed off.

The fourth category is that a wise man’s words are few.

Proverbs 17:27-28 tells us, “A man of knowledge uses words with restraint, and a man of understanding is even tempered. Even a fool is thought wise if he keeps silent, and discerning if he holds his tongue. ” Proverbs 10:19 is even more direct. “When words are many, sin is not absent, but he who holds his tongue is wise. ” When I was young, I was taught a lie by my dad, that I was stupid. I now realize how frustrating I must have been to him to cause him to use that expression. Far too many years I have strived to keep my stupidity from showing. It was a practice that led to extreme anxiety that exhibited in stuttering and insecurity. I thought education would help, but even a PhD in Physics did not dissuade my deep sense of stupidity. But it did give me a large vocabulary and an ability to argue. I thought if I used just the right argument, I might be thought to be wise. All it accomplished was to increase my anxiety and loss of friends. I have a few years of living and learning now and have mostly learned to keep quiet or to express myself within the restraints of my understanding. I understand only a few things and I suspect I only understand those things within a narrow perspective. What I know can be expressed with a few words. When I manage that, I am being wise. And it is freeing.

This was a great sermon and helped me take another step in my growth towards wisdom. Transformation is a way of life at Flatirons. Please join us if you do not regularly attend elsewhere. We would be pleased to see you and grow with you. We meet at the Reel Mountain Theater every Sunday at 11a.m.

Lloyd Lane Celebration Of Life

A Celebration of Lloyd Lane’s Life will be held at the home of Paul and Jane Suwalski in Longmont, Colorado on Saturday, May 20, 2023 at 1:00 p.m. Please RSVP to 303-651-0209 if you plan to attend.

Lloyd will be placed to rest at Estes Valley Memorial Gardens. Fond memories of Lloyd are welcome at www.ahlbergfuneralchapel.com.

Mentors Needed!

Do you enjoy spending time with a youth? Do you wish you had a mentor growing up? Do you love to laugh? Learn about volunteer opportunities

with Partners at poweredbypartners.org, call 970-577-9348 or email: kwhitacre@poweredbypartners.org.

Alcoholics Anonymous Meetings

AA of Glen Haven- Every Monday night at the Town Hall at 6:30 p.m. Also Thursday at 6:30 p.m. at Glen Haven Town Hall.

Early Worms-Monday thru Saturday at 7:00 a.m. (Tues., Thurs. & Saturday hybrid meetings with Zoom #796 839 839 PW:Worms20) at St. Bartholomew Church, 880 MacGregor Ave.

Fall River Group

Alcoholics Anonymous meetings are held at 453 West Elkhorn: Mon., Weds., at Noon Fri. at 7:00 p.m.

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

Note: The AA Meeting website has over 6,000 members and there are 69 AA Meetings a week plus NA has 30 meetings a week. Go to www.intherooms.com

American Kestrel

Photo by Jim Ward

Rocky Mountain Gateway

Now Hiring For Kitchen Staff and Servers

Gift Shop Cashier. Housing available. Apply in person. 3450 Fall River Rd.

YmCa oF THe RoCKieS

n igHT SeC u RiTY oFFiCeR (SeaSo n aL)

Ensures all of the core buildings and lodges are locked and/or secure after hours. $13.65/hour, on-site dormitory-style housing available, 3 meals day/7days per week, and more perks! www.w o rk i nth e r o ck ie s. o r g

nOW HirinG

Apply at 854 Dunraven Street, estes Park cO 970/586-1085 mtnvalleyestes@gmail.com

Elizabeth Guild Thrift Shop of Estes Park Seeking Part Time Cashier

18-20 hours a week, flexible schedule. Stop by and see Joe at 427 W. Elkhorn Ave.

NOW HIRING!

Experienced Maintenance

$22.00 to $25.00 per hour DOE plus bonus*

Front Desk

$17.00 to $20.00 per hour DOE plus bonus*

Housekeeping

Starting at $16.00 per hour DOE plus bonus*

*Bonus is $1.00 per hour May through October

Apply at, mail or email resume to: Fawn Valley Inn, 2760 Fall River Road, Estes Park, CO 80517 Email: Jamie@RockyMtnResorts.com

Rams Horn Village Resort has a year round, part time position available in our Activities/Hospitality Department: $18-20/hour. Responsibilities include exceptional customer service, weekly shopping, food prep, and assisting with weekend events for guests. Approx 16-20 hrs/wk. Can also work in Guest Services/Housekeeping department for full time employment, which includes summer bonus and benefits package. Fill out an application at Rams Horn Village Resort, 1565 Colo. Hwy 66. EEOE

Formerly Rocky Mountain Transit Management HIRING!

Parking Lot Attendants & Bus Washers/Cleaners $21.00 per hour. Seasonal work May-Oct. Varied shifts, part-time or more. Info 970-577-7477

Rocky Mountain Conservancy Retail

Clerks

Other Employment Opportunities

Are you looking for something that is a calling rather than a job? Good Samaritan offers many opportunities to make a difference in the lives of others. If you want more out of your work than just a paycheck…check out our employment opportunities at www.good-sam.com.

All training provided, QMAP, CNA and RN - great benefits! 3 positions open! Sign on bonuses available.

VOLUNTEERS NEEDED!

More than 40 percent of seniors report regularly experiencing loneliness. Good Samaritan Estes Park Village senior living community offer socialization, meal programs and wellness/activity programs to combat loneliness, gently supporting our residents that nurture their body, mind and soul. One of the ways we want to enhance this is through our volunteer program. We will pair seniors with friends in the community who can share their interests and offer companionship.

If you are looking to make a different in the lives of others, contact the Good Samaritan Estes Park Village. (970) 577-7700 ext 200 and ask for Irene.

Seeking creative types and art/craft lovers for sales

associate position at Patterson Glassworks.

Must be able to work well with the public and our small staff. Tasks include sales, packing glass, shipping, cleaning etc.. Opportunities for creative work for the right person. Apply at 323 W. Elkhorn Ave Estes Park

YmCa oF THe RoCKieS 2515 Tunn e l R oa d est e s P a rk, C o l o r a d o , 80511

gRo un DS mai n Te n a n Ce

CRe w LeaDeR

Responsible for assisting the Grounds Maintenance Supervisor in supervising seasonal crews in the upkeep and projects of the Estes Park Center grounds and landscaping. $18 - $19.50/hour with full benefits, discounted childcare, generous PTO/vacation, and more perks.

www.w o rk i nth e r o ck ie s. o r g

Alpine Visitor Center RMNP (working at 12K feet)

 Seasonal: late May – October, 2023

 2-3 days/week

 Part- me and seasonal posi ons only

 $19.00 - $19.50/hour

Ques ons? Call 970-586-0121

E-mail to apply: Opportunity@RMConservancy.org

RMConservancy.org

Guides, Manager & Office Staff - F/T & P/T

Please email resume to reservations@ greenjeeptour.com

Questions? Call 970-577-0034

YmCa oF THe RoCKieS 2515

80511

Di n i n g Room ma n ageR

Responsible for the overall dayto-day operations of the Pine Room, the restaurant on-property at YMCA of the Rockies. $18.00$21.30/hour with full benefits, discounted childcare, membership, and more!

www.w o rk i nth e r o ck ie s. o r g

Retail Manager (FT) and Seasonal Clerks (PT/FT)

Apply in person at Dakotah Jewelry or Sterling Pony in downtown Estes.

Wild Side 4x4 Tours is Hiring!

Adventure Tour Guides On and Off-Road- $15-$50 Reservation Specialist- $15-20

• Voted the #1 activity to do in Estes Park, Colorado

• Voted the top 10 things to do in Colorado

• 5-star ranking on TripAdvisor for the past 10 years

• Awarded the Certificate of Excellence for the past 10 years

We are seeking energetic, responsible and positive individuals to guide both on-road and off-road photo tours in Rocky Mountain National Park and Roosevelt National Forest.

Email resumes to4x4photoguide@gmail.com

Or stop by our store location 212 E. ELKHORN AVE. wildside4x4tours.com

Full or Part Time Retail Position

Starting right away. Responsible for sales; pricing & displaying merch; cleaning store; unpacking/entering items in comp. Need person who enjoys dealing w/ people, has decent comp skills & enjoys cleaning. Some wknds & eve's reqd (summer). Apply at 160 W Elkhorn Ave.

LOOKING FOR ART LOVERS!

Join one of the top 10 Galleries in the USA featuring all American Art with 2 location in Estes Park.

Full and Part Time Sales Positions Available.

Retail sales experience required. Must be friendly and outgoing and willing to go the extra mile for our customers.

We offer:

• Very competitive wages

• Attractive employee discounts

• Profit Sharing

• A great work environment surrounded by beautiful American art!

Please drop off resume in person at: 360 E. Elkhorn Ave. or, Email to info@earthwoodartisans.com

YMCa OF tHe rOCKIes

80511

Master Carpe n ter

Responsible for repairing and replacing all aspects of building construction associated with operations, as well as maintenance and repair of facilities. The carpentry work will be new construction, upgrading construction, and repair construction. $26.93 - $31.98/hour with full benefits, discounted childcare, membership, and more perks.

www.wo r kin t h er ocki es .o r g

Silver Saddle Inn

Now hiring: Front Desk Clerk Evenings required, Full time $17/hr - $22/hr DOE, Benefits Must be non-smoker. Apply in person: 1260 Big Thompson Ave. or email resume: info@estesresort.com

You've just found it! Fun family business

Outdoor World retail clothing and equipment year round stores needs you. Starting at $17.0030.00 per hour. Retail, managing, selling, merchandising and cleaning. You must be cheerful and like people. Choose your hours. Ages 15 to 80. Call Ernie 24 hours a day any day. 970 232 8290.

AIRBITS INTERNET NOW HIRING FOR OFFICE RECEPTIONIST

Customer service skills, computer literate, answer phone, take payments and banking. References need to be provided.

Five days a week from 8a.m. to 4p.m., Monday through Friday.

Phone: 970-586-7522

Harmony is Hiring

Belong to something that matters. See your value every day. Connect with your calling. We have full & part-time opportunities for:

• Licensed Counselors

• Nurses

• Cleaning Crew

• Maintenance

• Case Management

• Food Services

• Behavioral Health Tech

Check out our website for job duties & salary ranges www.harmonyfoundation.com/ history/careers.

Stop by our office at 1600 Fish Hatchery Road to apply or email your resume to hr@harmonyfoundationinc.com. We look forward to meeting you!

Harmony está contratando Pertenece a algo que importa. Vea su valor todos los días. Conéctate con tu vocación. Tenemos oportunidades a tiempo completo y parcial para:

• Consejeros Licenciados

• Enfermeras

• Equipo de limpieza

• Mantenimiento

• Gestión de casos

• Servicios de Alimentación

• Tecnología de salud conductual Visite nuestro sitio web para conocer los deberes laborales y los rangos salariales www.harmonyfoundation.com/ history/careers. Pase por nuestra oficina en 1600 Fish Hatchery Road para solicitar o envíe su currículum vitae por correo electrónico a hr@harmonyfoundationinc.com.

¡Esperamos conocerte!

SereniTEA's tea room is hiring for a Kitchen manager/Chef and a Server position.

Flexible hours.Hourly base plus tips. We work together as a team and a family so need someone who sincere, honest and reliable. Apply in-store

207 Park Ln.

Now Hiring Part-time year-round employment for RMNP Tours and Weddings. Clean, Valid Colorado CDL Driver License, with Class B Pass. Endorse. Required. $28-30/hr plus tips. Apply within at: Estes Park Shuttle 551 South Saint Vrain Ave

3 Great Stores - All Positions Available $18.00 to $20.00 to start plus Commission & Bonuses. Great discounts! Full & Part Time positions available. Drop resume at Plum Creek or email peter@plumcreekshoes.com

Now hiring Shuttle Drivers

Part-time/Full-time year-round employment. Clean Valid Colorado Driver license (no special license needed). $18-20/hr plus tips with a $4 morning and night shift differential. Apply within at: Estes Park Shuttle 551 South Saint Vrain Ave

Tire Technician

Perform tire related and light automotive services. $15 - $20/hr depending on experience. Flexible time off options, at cost vehicle repairs. Valid drivers license required. Apply in person at 1633 Raven Ave or call (970) 586-8085 or email office@estestireandauto.com.

YMCa OF tHe rOCKIes

2515 tunn e l ro a d e stes p ar k, Colo ra do, 80511

G u est reGIstratIO n / n IGHt a ud It re l IeF Ma n aGer

Responsible for covering the days and nights when the regular Night Auditor and any of the Guest Registration Managers are off. Must be able to work between 11:00PM – 7:00AM. $18$21.30/hour with full benefits, discounted childcare, and more.

www.wo r kin t h er ocki es .o r g

Join Way Finder Cleaning!

No experience needed, we offer professional training. Start at $20/hour with potential to earn over $30 with tips and benefits. Enjoy a supportive team environment, opportunities for advancement, paid vacation/sick leave, and 401k. Apply now at www.Wayfindercleaning.com or call 720-570-6944.

We’re hiring for the following positions starting at $21.01/hr.:

• Drive-up & Go Service Helpers

• Checker

• Courtesy Clerk

• Day-Stocker

• Overnight Stocker

• Bakery Clerk

• Deli Clerk

• Produce Clerk

• Seafood Clerk

• Cake Decorator

• Meat Cutter

Get your application at: www.albertsoncompanies.com

After your application has been completed, please call our hiring manager Ann at 970.586.4447.

JOIN OUR TEAM!

Full details on employment opportunities and the application can be found at estes.org/jobs.

Full-time

Civil Engineer I - II (term limited)

Emergency Services Dispatcher I – III

Events Maintenance Worker I

Events Operation Supervisor

Housing and Childcare Manager

Street Equipment Specialist I - III

Water Plant Operator I - IV

Water Superintendent

Seasonal Parks Maintenance Worker Visitor Information Assistant

The status of applications will be communicated via e-mail. By choice, the Town of Estes Park is an Equal Employment Opportunity Employer.

Solitude Cabins and Lodge is now hiring for: Full or Part time

Front Desk Agent, Strip and Preppers $17-20/hr depending on experience.

Please call 970-577-7777 ask for Kay

Village Goldsmith, Inc.

We currently have job openings for jewelry art lovers in our workshop/gallery

Explore your creativity

SALES ASSOCIATE

Fine jewelry retail sales, Business management

Open every day. We offer competitive pay, summer bonus potential, flexible scheduling.

235 West Elkhorn Avenue (970)586-5659 villagegoldsmith@airbits.com

Deer Crest Resort

P/T Front Desk Help Wanted through mid-October. 24-30 hours per week

Lodging experience is helpful, but not a must.

Salary based on experience. Call 970-586-2324

Bird & Jim

Experience line cook / prep – both AM shifts. Line 8am – 4pm, Prep 6am – 2pm

$16-$18 pending experience

Please stop by or email birdandjim@birdandjim.com

The Bird’s Nest

Experience line cook / prep – this is a dual role. Hours from 8am to 4pm. $16-$18 pending experience

Please stop by or email info@thebirds–nest.com

Full-time year-round benefited Head Lifeguard

Head Lifeguard- Full-time position, $18.00-$20.00 per hour with medical, dental and vision and retirement benefits. Learning and advancement opportunities available. Accepting applications for certified Lifeguards or willing to train and certify the right candidate.

Full-time Seasonal Lake Estes Marina Supervisor

Responsible for all catering and refreshment deliveries out of the Estes Park Center Food Service Department. $18.00$20.15/hour with full benefits, discounted childcare, membership, and more! www.wo r k i nth er ock ie s.o rg

Rams Horn Village Resort has year round full time and part time positions available in our Guest Services/Housekeeping Department: $17-19/hour, plus tips, a summer bonus up to $1500, and benefits package for full time employees. We are looking for energetic, dependable people who are able to perform physical labor and who have strong customer service skills. Fridays and Saturdays are required. Fill out an application at Rams Horn Village Resort, 1565 Colo. Hwy 66. EEOE

Are organized, have retail experience, leadership qualities and want to work by Lake Estes? This position is a great opportunity to contribute to the Marina team and grow your leadership skills!

Part-time and Seasonal Positions

We are accepting applications for Part-Time Lifeguards and Seasonal

Full-Time and Part-Time positions for Golf Pro Shop, Golf Starters and Rangers, Golf Maintenance and Marina Attendants.

Seasonal Campgrounds Maintenance Supervisor

Do you enjoy working outdoors? This position will work with and supervise Campground Maintenance staff to maintain the Mary’s Lake and East Portal Campgrounds. Maintenance duties will include various landscaping tasks, building tent pads, and making minor repairs to facilities. The position will start in mid-April and end in mid-October.

Youth Tennis Instructor

Do you have experience working with youth and/or instructing tennis. This position will be responsible for developing age-appropriated group tennis lessons for youth, ages 4-12 years old. You need knowledge of tennis rules, terminology, and equipment, and safety protocols. This program will be offered at the Stanley Park Tennis Courts on June 6- July 20 on T/TH mornings 9-12pm (skipping July 4th week).

To learn more about these positions and apply on-line go to evrpd.com. Estes Valley Recreation and Park District is an equal opportunity employer.

TRANSPORTATION RENTALS RENTALS SALES

Apartments

Downtown Studio for

$950. Single Occ, NS/NP, 1-Year Lease. Credit and Ref Req. Call (970) 480-5458.

2 Bed, 1.25 Bath 1500 sq ft. Views, Wildlife, NS, NP. $1800/month includes utilities. Max 2 people. 970-586-8107

Commercial Rentals

OFFICE SPACE For Rent 970-290-4488

237 W. Elkhorn $3,000 per month. 12’ x 24’ with loft. Waterwheel Shops. Good location for artist, sculptor, tailor, yarn shop or craftsperson.

970-586-6308

Short Term

3 bdr 2.5 bath monthly vacation rental. Amazing mtn. views, sunny open floor plan, spacious deck. Close to Estes Park town & RMNP. VRBO #3271657.

Wants To Rent

Local Female looking for place to rent!

Immediate availability, long term, great references, great credit, full time employment, has one cat. $1200 max monthly. Call/TXT 303-883-1716

REAL ESTATE SERVICES

Cars

2015 Honda Accord EX-L Sedan Basque Red pearl w/Ivory Leather int. Very Good Condition..147,000. Good Tires, new windshield, great gas mileage. $14,500.00. Call 970-227-0346. please no dealers/brokers.

SERVICESk

Sewing/Alterations

Remixed Custom Sewing Services.

NEW LOCATION!

RV Cushions, outdoor furniture, benches, leather and Industrial Repair.

Call for appointment

970-492-5446

Piano Tuning

Susan Novy, local piano tuner. Call for appt. 577-1755

www.estesparkpiano tuner.com

Landscaping

Landscaping services

970-308-0049

Raking, Tree & Shrub removal, Hauling

Lawn services, Rock Work

Homes

FSBO $825,000

4 bd/3 bth

2200 sq ft single family home

Owner/Agent 970-481-9151

Commercial Commercial Spaces for sale and lease. Call Eric. Anderson Realty. 586-2950

Garage Sales

Garage Sale - Saturday May 13th. 530 Far View Ln 8am - 1pm. Tools, Bicycles, Shoes, Clothes, Soundbar, Boss System Home Theater, VW Beetle and much more!

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

PROFESSIONAL BUSINESS BUILDER

CARPET CLEANING

970-586-4315

ATTORNEYS

BEAUTY SALON SERVICES

CHIMNEY SWEEP

CLEANING SERVICES

COMPUTER SERVICES

CAMERAS

EYECARE/GLASSES

WENDYS OPTICAL

Wendy, Amy, Markus

Dr. Amber Busche

970-586-4418

www.aspen-eyecare.com

600 S Saint Vrain Ave - Suite 5

•equipped to evaluate macular degeneration, glaucoma and cataracts

•same day appointments for eye pain and emergencies

•referral access to specialized surgeons & advocacy for the best care

•full service optical for specialized eyewear

Comprehensive Eyecare Right Here in Estes Park!

FINANCIAL SERVICES

FLOORING