Estes Park News, June 21, 2024

Photo by Sarah Svehla

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Stacey Sutherland Promoted To Fire Code Inspector II With Rank Of Lieutenant

EVFPD is thrilled to announce that Stacey Sutherland, our esteemed Fire Safety Assistant II, was promoted to Fire Code Inspector II with the rank of Lieutenant. This well-deserved promotion is a reflection of her dedication, hard work, and exceptional service.

Stacey brings fifteen years of emergency medical experience and twenty years of management and customer service to serve the Estes Valley community. Stacey is passionate about public safety. She was an instructor for the EMT certification program at Front Range for five years, and did outdoor recreation education and mentored youth through a counseling program for twelve years, and has spent the last eighteen years using her management and emergency medical skills to help mitigate disaster relief. Her love for nature, community and public safety inspired her to be a firefighter and work in fire prevention.

valuable member of our team. She consistently goes above and beyond, always willing to support, mentor, and assist her teammates in any way she can.

ness community and beyond. She has a proven track record of success, and we look forward to many more successful outcomes. “

Throughout her career with EVFPD, Stacey has demonstrated unwavering commitment to the safety of our community. Her expertise in fire prevention and public education, coupled with her leadership qualities, has made her an in-

Join The Next Trustee Talk June 27

Community members are invited to join Mayor Gary Hall and Mayor Pro Tem Marie Cenac for a Trustee Talk Thursday, June 27 at 5:30 p.m. in the Town Hall Board Room, 170 MacGregor Ave. This is an opportunity for community members to discuss local issues with members of the board in an informal setting. The topics for this Trustee Talk session will be construction, the strategic plan and an open discussion on local issues.

In her new role as Lieutenant, Stacey will be instrumental in strengthening our fire prevention initiatives and enhancing our team’s effectiveness. Chief Lasky was quoted to say, “He has no doubt that she will continue to excel and inspire us all.” Assistant Chief of Support Services, Jon Landkamer added, “We are excited for the future with Lieutenant Sutherland taking the lead in community risk reduction for our busi-

Stacey lives in the Estes Valley with her family. She joined the EVFPD in 2022. Please join us in congratulating Lieutenant Sutherland on this significant achievement and wishing her continued success in this next chapter of her career. We are all lucky to have Lieutenant Sutherland helping to protect us, guests, property and businesses in this valley. The swearing-in ceremony was held at Station 71 on Friday, May 17th at 4:30 p.m.

Assistant Chief Paul Capo, Lt. Stacey Sutherland, Fire Chief Rick Lasky.

Community Wildfire Defense Grant

Estes Valley Fire Protection District will receive a $555,000 Community Wildfire Defense Grant to carry out fire mitigation efforts as prescribed in the region’s 2022 Community Wildfire Protection Plan. This critical project is a collaboration among the Estes Valley Fire Protection District, the Town of Estes Park and the Estes Valley Watershed Coalition. The project will bring forestry contractors to the Estes Valley to complete fuels reduction treatment on 200 acres along the south side of Spur 66 and adjacent to Rocky Mountain National Park. Treatment will take place over a five-year period, with roughly 20-50 acres completed per year.

This result will be healthy forest conditions that are more resistant and resilient to fire. It will help protect critical electric and water infrastructure, as well as protect historical features at the YMCA of the Rockies.; Finally, the project will connect other fuel reduction projects within Rocky Mountain National Park, expanding oppor-

The charge(s) are merely an accusation and the defendant is presumed innocent until and unless proven guilty.

On 6/9/2024 at 8:22 p.m. police contacted a 30 year old who identifies as a male in the 500 block of Saint Vrain Lane who was wanted on an outstanding warrant for a misdemeanor. The male was arrested and transported to the Larimer County Jail.

On 6/10/2024 at 2:18 p.m. police contacted a 28 year old male from Englewood, CO for a traffic violation in the 400 block of E. Elkhorn Avenue. On scene, the driver was found to be driving under the influence of alcohol. He was charged with DUI, DUI per se, failure to drive in single lane and driving with an open alcoholic container. The male was arrested and transported to the Larimer County Jail.

tunities to fight any wildfire that could occur in the area.

Fire Chief Richard Lasky expressed, “This is a huge win for the Estes Valley in our ongoing effort to provide a safer community regarding the risk of wildfires. This is proof positive of what can happen when three teams come together with a common goal of protecting those living within this region. We are proud to be part of this team effort.”

Estes Valley Fire Protection District will serve as the overall grant manager and perform on-the-ground project oversight. The Town of Estes Park developed the competitive grant application and will provide matching funds to further support the project. Estes Valley Watershed Coalition will support planning efforts and manage relationships with both property owners and contractors. For more information, contact Estes Valley Fire’s Assistant Chief of Support Services Jon Landkamer at (970) 5770900 or jlandkamer@estesvalleyfire.org.

On 6/15/2024 at 5:28 p.m. police contacted a 69 year old male from Fort Collins, CO in the 300 block of E. Wonderview Avenue for urinating in public view. The male was cited with indecent exposure and later released.

On 6/15/2024 at 5:36 p.m. police contacted a 55 year old male from Estes Park in the 1500 block of Axminster Lane for leaving the scene of a motor vehicle accident and suspicion of DUI. On scene, officers arrested the male who physically resisted arrest. He was charged with felony DUI, resisting arrest, reckless driving, failure to leave premises upon request of peace officer, leaving the scene of an accident, failure to present proof of insurance, driving without a valid license and displaying an expired registration. The male was transported to the Larimer County Jail.

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 June 9th, 2024, the Estes Valley Fire Protection District (EVFPD) responded to 22 calls for service. This included:

• Alarm Activation: 4

• Odor Investigation: 1

• Smoke Investigation: 1

• Assist: 4

• Emergency Medical (assist EPH): 7

• Search and Rescue: 1

• Water Rescue: 1

• Motor Vehicle Accident (MVA): 2

• Gas Leak: 1

Estes Valley Fire www.estesvalleyfire.org

Status Update On Major Construction Projects In Rocky Mountain National Park

Moraine Park Campground and Headquarters East Utility Rehabilitation Project

The Moraine Park Campground is expected to remain closed this summer/fall season due to construction delays. Production in the field did not match the anticipated schedule. The contractor is working to finish up the project while the weather is good by expediting the delivery of construction materials and increasing crew sizes and/or work hours. Much of the work for this project includes underground utility improvements that will allow for year-round use of the campground for the next several decades, increase the campground's accessibility, and move sites off of sensitive wetlands and create new sites.

The scope and scale of this project is significant. This critical infrastructure project is improving the water, wastewater, and electrical distribution systems that serve Moraine Park Campground and many additional park facilities on the east side of the park. Although many of the utility improvements are underground and will never be seen, they are vital!

Highlights of what this major project entails:

In the campground - replacing aging water distribution lines with new ones throughout the campground, rehabbing the failing sewer system, electrical upgrades including adding capacity for electric at 49 campsites, and burying overhead electric lines for fire safety, improving storm drainage to reduce sediment runoff and campsite flooding, rehabbing approximately two dozen individual campsites for either accessibility or removal from wetlands, installing bear boxes at each site, improving accessibility to comfort stations, dumpsters, utilities, and dump stations, ranger station and kiosk.

In areas outside of the campgroundreplacing and increasing size of water tanks at three different locations to better serve the housing and headquarters areas, meet fire codes, and replacing water distribution to allow for year-round housing that is located near the Beaver Meadows Entrance. Overall water improvements include a new water treatment plant that serves all of the park's headquarters area, housing area, campground, Beaver Meadows Entrance, and Beaver Meadows Visitor Center. This is the last of several phases of waterline replacements that have been completed over the past 9 years.

Fall River Entrance Construction

The construction is ongoing and should be complete later this summer. There is currently one lane in through the Fall River Entrance with one kiosk and two windows operations when staffing allows. When the project is completed there will be three kiosks, a transponder lane and new lane configuration for improved traffic flow from the park's boundary.

Grand Lake Entrance Construction

Construction has begun on the Grand Lake Entrance ranger station that was destroyed during the East Troublesome Fire in October of 2020. At least one lane entering the park and one lane exiting the park will be maintained during construction.

Replacement Housing Project on west side of park

Construction has begun on the housing complex on the west side of the park to replace housing that was destroyed during the East Troublesome Fire in October of 2020. The project also includes the construction of new utility systems, replacement of a water well and associated infrastructure at the existing park housing area, and removal of destroyed utilities infrastructure.

Reclamation Neighborhood Construction Begins June 17

Construction in the Reclamation Neighborhood begins June 17, 2024, and is scheduled to continue through November, 2024. After a break during winter months, construction will resume in spring 2025, with completion expected in May/June, 2025.

This construction project will relocate water lines – from behind residences to under the streets – to meet State of Colorado requirements for water and sewer line separation. The work will start on Third Street, North Court and South Court, then proceed along U.S.36 (this summer). The final construction areas will be First Street and then Second

Street, which is anticipated to start in September 2024. New asphalt pavement, wider sidewalks and new curb and gutter will be installed on Third Street, North Court and South Court. Detour and road closure information will be posted throughout the construction area.

To learn more about this project, please visit www.estes.org/waterprojects or contact Project ManagerJacqui Wesley at jwesley@estes.org or Capital Projects Supervisor Mike Dantimo, at mdantimo@estes.org. You may also contact Project Manager Jacqui Wesley at 970-577-3611.

Construction Impact Grant Funding Available To Qualifying Businesses

In response to the experiences of local businesses during the construction of the Downtown Estes Loop and other projects, the Town of Estes Park is providing Construction impact aid to qualifying businesses. The Town Board approved a funding package totaling $400,000 at its most recent regular meeting. The Town’s partner, the Estes Chamber of Commerce, administers the program including the application and award process. Businesses are encouraged to learn more about the program by visiting esteschamber.org/events/awardsgrants.

Available funding includes:

$200,000 allocated for a direct-grant program for businesses within the local marketing district impacted by downtown construction (applications due by June 28, 2024)

$200,000 allocated for a marketing match program available to businesses within the local marketing district, matching 75% up to $2,500 for marketing spent between May 1st and July 31st, 2024 (first-come, first-served)

The Construction Impact Grant Program will provide grants to businesses that have suffered economic loss due to the Downtown Estes Loop construction project in 2023 and 2024. The Estes Chamber of Commerce will administer the applications and approval of these grants. The direct grant will be allocated based on a percentage of net sales loss compared to the total net sales loss by all applicants. Businesses will need to submit an affirmation of eligibility, provide revenue statements for the affected time

period, and provide a W-9 form. The deadline for applications is June 28, 2024. A business must meet the following criteria to be eligible for the Construction Impact Grant program:

• Hold a business license with the Town of Estes Park.

• Be physically located within the eligibility area.

• Have no outstanding tax liens or legal judgments.

The Marketing Match Program will provide a 75% reimbursement (up to $2,500) for funds that a business spends on marketing between May 1, 2024 and July 31, 2024. The Estes Chamber of Commerce will administer the applications and approval of these marketing match grants. This program will be open to all businesses physically located within the Local Marketing District and will be distributed on a first-come, firstserved basis. Businesses will need to submit an affirmation of eligibility and provide receipts to receive reimbursement. A business must meet the following criteria to be eligible for the Marketing Match program:

• Hold a business license with the Town of Estes Park.

• Be physically located within the Local Marketing District boundaries.

• Have no outstanding tax liens or legal judgments.

The applications are available on the Estes Chamber of Commerce website at esteschamber.org/events/awards-grants. For assistance, please contact the Chamber at EPBusinessRelief@gmail.com or call 970-480-7552.

7:00p-8:00p 07/05 Friday 07/06 Saturday 9:00p-12:00a 6:30p-7:30p 07/02 Tuesday

ELENA’S BARKING LOT

is excited to announce that the Outside Summer Pet Photo Studio is open! This is a fundraising event to support Miss Rooftop Rodeo candidate, Elena Nedobukh, Paint Estes Pink and Crowns for the Care.

All the proceeds will be donated to Estes Park Health foundation during the month of June! Pictures are taken by appointment only.

Please contact Elena’s Barking Lot via email: elenasbarkinglot@gmail.com or text: 970 586 0340 to set up an appointment. Thank you for your support!

Sarah Fink and Shari Hightower have teamed up and invite you to help them raise money. So mark your calendar, invite your friends and join us for a Shopping Night Fundraiser at The Mad Moose 900 Moraine Avenue June 27, 2024 5PM - 7PM

RMNP Selects 2024 Artists-In-Residence

Rocky Mountain National Park and Rocky Mountain Conservancy are pleased to announce that the 2024 Artists-in-Residence have been selected. Six artists were selected to serve in a two-week residency that will take place between June and September. Rocky’s first Artist-In-Residence of 2024 is Claudia Borfiga, a visual artist originally from the UK who currently lives in Denver, Colorado. Borfiga works with a variety of visual mediums including paper, textiles and print. During her residency, Borfiga will be focusing on collecting imagery through photographs and drawings that she will later turn into prints.

During their residency, Rocky’s ArtistsIn-Residence will host at least two programs open to visitors of all ages. On Thursday, June 20, Borfiga will be hosting a drop in “Print-a-Card” program at Fall River Visitor Center. Join her anytime between 12 p.m. and 2 p.m. and learn how to hand pull a screen print. Participants will learn about the art of screen printing and will be able to take a print home with them. All supplies are provided and participants do not need any previous knowledge or skills to attend.

Following Borfiga, Rocky Mountain National Park’s other 2024 Artists-InResidence are Susan Mockler, a poet.; Garrison Gerard, a composer of electroacoustic and concert music; Kait Evensen, an artist focusing on embroidery and technical illustration; Joe Norman, a sculptor; and Jeremy Shellhorn, a

designer/illustrator.

Since the late 1800s, national parks and art have had a special connection. Artists like George Catlin, Thomas Cole, Thomas Moran, Albert Bierstadt and more played a key role in helping to draw attention to the beauty and wonders found in many of our national parks. Recognizing the important role that art has played in the history of our national parks, in 1984, Rocky Mountain National Park was among the first national parks to offer an Artist-In-Residence Program.

This impactful program is generously supported by Rocky Mountain Conservancy. Since 1984, Rocky Mountain National Park has hosted over 200 artists, including authors, painters, poets, composers, sculptors, quilters, photographers, musicians, and more.

For more information on Rocky Mountain National Park, please visit www.nps.gov/romo or contact the park’s Information Office at (970) 586-1206.

A portion of ALL sales will be donated to Crowns for the Care

Hosted by:

Merry Marthas To Meet On June 28

The next meeting of the Merry Marthas will be held on Friday, June 28 at 9:30 a.m. at the Presbyterian Community Church of the Rockies on Brodie Avenue. Merry Marthas is a group of women who sew, knit, crochet, or weave and then donate their finished projects to local charities. New members are always welcome whether experienced or a beginner. For more information, please call the church at 970-586-4404.

The next Community Yard Sale and Pancake Breakfast will be held on Saturday, June 29 – weather permitting. Setup at will begin at 7 a.m., open to public at 8 a.m. until 12 noon.

The sale will take place in the Estes Park Masonic Lodge parking lot, 1820 S. St. Vrain Ave.

Outdoor spaces are available for rent to sell your merchandise for $20.00. Call 970 577-8585 for more information.

Author Aaron Johnson Book Signing At Trail

Ridge Store In RMNP

Xanterra Travel Collection is proud to announce Aaron Johnson, author of the National Park Mystery Series, will be signing his books at the Trail Ridge Store

beginning of the adventure for these three companions, following a series of clues left by Jake’s grandfather. Currently Aaron has completed four of

in Rocky Mountain National Park on Saturday, June 22, 2024, from 10:00 a.m. until 3:00 p.m.

Aaron is the author and illustrator of the National Park Mystery Series. The series follows Jake Evans and is two friends on a scavenger hunt through some of America’s most rugged, wild, and beautiful national parks. The first book in his series, Mystery in Rocky Mountain National Park, is the

the ten books of the series. The Trail Ridge Store will have all four of these books ready for the author to sign.

Aaron Johnson is a former high school and middle school teacher and the founder of the online hiking guide, Dayhikes Near Denver. Aaron and his family make their home in the beautiful state of Colorado.

Join Xanterra Travel Collection in welcoming Aaron Johnson and begin your journey with Jake and his friends through the most beautiful places on earth!

It’s not easy to find a good gooseberry— or even a bad one for that matter—so when someone offered me a bunch of berries the other day, I graciously accepted them. I didn’t have to pick them (a prickly business requiring gloves) and they had already been de-stemmed so all I had to do was figure out what to do with them.

I mentioned to friends that I had a basketful of gooseberries and wondered how I should use them. My friends exclaimed how tart they are. The backs of my jaws squirted just hearing about the berries’ sour bite. Yet when I said I was thinking about making a pie with those bitter berries, there were exclamations of adulation all around. Everybody loves gooseberry pie!

“My grandmother used to make gooseberry pie,” some said.

“I haven’t had a gooseberry pie in decades,” said others.

But gooseberry pie? I’d never baked a gooseberry pie before. Never even tasted somebody else’s. I couldn’t find a recipe in my personal collection of eleven cookbooks. (Eleven is a trifle compared to what many cooks have but it’s plenty for me, except when I need a gooseberry pie recipe.) When I looked online I found two options for preparing the taut green orbs: 1) cook the berries first, or 2) don’t. Why would I cook them if I didn’t have to? No berry pre-cookage here, by golly.

sugar and the sour tang of berries. Gotta have that tart nip or why use gooseberries at all? Naturally sweet blueberries would suffice. Besides, the job of ice cream is to introduce a touch of extra sweetness on top. I wouldn’t dream of eating a piece of berry pie without ice cream—even for breakfast.

The recipe called for a little flour and an egg, which was added as a thickener, and that was it. Gooseberry pie.

Humbly, I tell you my gooseberry pie turned out great. (See photo.) I didn’t need to cook the berries first. They were tender and had just the right amount of zing floating in sweet juiciness to wake up the taste buds. The only thing I would do differently is to add at least one more egg, or maybe some tapioca to thicken up the filling. The pie was rather runny, which is apparently common with gooseberry pie.

I used lard in my crust because my mother did and she made the lightest, flakiest crust ever. (I see you balking. That’s because in the 1950s and ’60s some marketing genius convinced us that lard is bad for us. But it’s not. It has less monounsaturated fat than butter and also helps lower “bad” cholesterol. My sun rises and falls on a block of butter but when it comes to making the perfect pie crust, I’m all in for rendered pig fat. I’m not alone: I’ve heard it’s making a comeback in highend restaurants, it’s drizzled on potatoes and brushed on coal-fired pizza. Don’t harden your arteries—larden your arteries!)

Back to gooseberry pie…to the berries I added just one cup of sugar. I could have used more but I was hoping to find the perfect balance between the sweetness of

Nonetheless, my friends were right— everybody loves gooseberry pie, including me.

Gooseberry Pie

(with a nod to former EP News food

columnist Esther Cenac, may she rest in peace)

1 cup white sugar ½ cup all-purpose flour

4 cups fresh gooseberries

1 egg

2 tablespoons butter

Preheat oven to 425º. Roll dough out to fit a 9-inch pie plate (you’re on your own for the crust recipe). Place bottom crust in pie plate. Roll out top crust and set aside.

In a bowl, mix together sugar, flour and egg. Add berries and stir gently to coat. Pour berries into crust; dot with butter. Cover with top crust and seal and flute edge. Cut a few slits in the top to allow steam to escape.

Bake in the preheated oven for 35 to 40 minutes, or until golden brown. Allow to cool. You may wish to cover the edge of pie with foil to prevent over-browning. If you do so, remove the foil for the final 15 minutes of baking. Remember, this pie will be runny. You’ll want to serve it and eat it with a spoon—and ice cream.

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

© 2024 Sarah Donohoe

Learn About The Bluebirds Of Estes

Come join members of CARRI for our second presentation in our Summer Speaker Series. On Wednesday, June 26th members of CARRI will present a program about bluebirds and the work that we are doing to learn about their movements and longevity. This program is called “Bluebirds of Estes.” The presentation will be held at Estes Park Bank Building, upstairs June 26th at 7:00 p.m. Tickets are $10.00 at the door.

Did you know that bluebirds look blue but are not actually blue? During this presentation we will explain this and much more about bluebirds. There are three species of bluebirds that can be found in the Estes Valley and RMNP. These are the Mountain Bluebird, Western Bluebird and the Eastern Bluebird. During the presentation, we will discuss where the birds can be found, where they nest, where to place nest boxes for them, show you images of their eggs, nestlings, and fledglings and show you where is the best locations to place boxes to attract the different species of bluebirds.

birds arrive a bit later and are frequently seen near ponderosa pines, and the least often seen in the area, is the Eastern Bluebird, which can be seen in the habitat of both Mountain and Western Bluebirds.

The most seen bluebird is the Mountain Bluebird. The sky-blue males are often the first seen bluebird in the winter/spring as they return to the area in late February. They are most often seen in open fields. The Western Blue-

All bluebirds nest in natural cavities and nest boxes. Many of us have nest boxes for bluebirds on our properties. During the presentation we will explain when to clean them so that the birds will hopefully reuse them.

Join us to learn all of this and more about the bluebirds of Estes. The presentation will be held at the Estes Park Bank Building, 255 Park Lane June 26th Tickets are $10.00 at the door.

Male Mountain Bluebird photo by Scott Rashid.

Pet Association

YARD SALE

SATURDAY JUNE 22 7AM-NOON

Elena’s Barking Lot and Estes Park Garage Door are excited to announce The Lake Estes Dog Walk!

The Lake Estes Dog Walk is a fundraising event that is organized to support Miss Rooftop Rodeo candidate, Elena Nedobukh, Paint Estes Pink and Crowns for the Care! All the proceeds will be donated to the Estes Park Health foundation. The event is free, but we do ask to make a donation during the event or purchase a raffle ticket. The raffle will be held after the walk near Lake Estes Marina. 3 prizes total!

The winner gets $150 gift card to Estes Park Pet Supply for the pet and a $50 gift card to Himalayan Curry and Kebab for the owner!

The event will be held on Sunday, June 23rd at 11 AM. Everyone will gather by the dog park and we will walk to the right after the underpass to Lake Estes Marina. Raffle tickets are $25 each. Raffle tickets are on sale now until June 23rd. Only the raffle ticket holders may participate in the Raffle. Scan the qr code to purchase the ticket. Please print your ticket and bring it with you to place it into the Raffle jar. Please refer to elenasbarkinglot.com for more information.

Hope to see you all on June 23rd at 11 AM by the Dog Park, pink attire is encouraged!

July 20th Weed Roundup –New Location In Stanley Park

Noxious weeds are once again having a banner year, so keep removing and bagging these invaders. Removing and bagging flowers and seed heads will help curtail your weed population next year. Time and persistence will give native plants a better chance! The 16th Annual Weed Roundup will be held July 20th from 9:00 to noon at a NEW LOCATION – 380 Community Drive (north of the Skate Park). No early birds or illegal drop-offs; follow the signs. Do not block traffic on Community Drive. Estes Land Stewardship Association (ELSA) volunteers will be on hand to answer weed questions and direct traffic flow. Educational displays and information will be available from Estes Land Stewardship Association (ELSA), Larimer County Natural Resources, and Rocky Mountain National Park. Bring in your weeds – no slash, pine needles, cones, dirt, trash – in paper yard bags for free disposal. Please remove/shake off dirt from plant roots. Excessive weight of wet weeds and dirt is a safety hazard for our volunteers. Only bag flowers and seed heads rather than entire plants. Read our weekly Estes Valley’s Weed Alert articles (published April through September in the EP News) to help identify invasive plants and manage seed producing plant parts for disposal. Weeds and trash can be disposed of year-around at Waste Management for a fee. Bags of non-weed materials or native plants will not be accepted at this event. Paper yard bags are available for pur-

chase at local hardware stores.

If you want ELSA to continue to sponsor these events, please adhere to the guidelines. Owning property in the Estes Valley can be challenging and different! Bagging mature weeds this time of year is not ideal weed management and not how you want to spend your time. Be proactive –learn your native plants and manage the invasive plants in a timely manner with a weed management specialist if you don’t have the time, energy or expertise to manage your property. A list of weed management specialists who can help is available at: larimer.org/naturalresources/weeds/applicators. Also refer to the information and Helpful Documents at estes.org/weeds

Other Monitored Weed Drop-offs are scheduled for August 17th and September 21st. These events are being made possible with the support from Estes Land Stewardship Association, the Town of Estes Park, Larimer County Natural Resources, Estes Valley Land Trust, and donations. Twenty Ob-Noxious Weeds in the Estes Valley weed booklets are available year around at the Estes Valley Library, Ace Hardware, Park Supply, Estes Park Lumber, Today’s Nails and www.estes.org/weeds. Estes Land Stewardship Association (ELSA) meets the first Thursday of the month (February, March, April & November) at 9:30 a.m. in the George Hix Room at US Bank. The next meeting is November 7th. For more information about ELSA contact elsa.weeds@gmail.com

The Estes Valley Photo Club Speaker Series Presents The World Of Night Photography With Rick Martinez

The Estes Valley Photo Club will be meeting on Thursday, June 27 at 5:30 p.m. in the Hondius Room of the Estes Valley Library, 333 E. Elkhorn Avenue. The presentation that evening will be The World of Night Photography by Estes Park’s own astrophotographer, Rick Martinez.

Delve into the captivating world of night photography, exploring everything from capturing the majestic Milky Way and enchanting star trails to photographing the moon and the art of light painting. Rick will cover fundamental techniques, encompassing the planning phase, shooting strategies, and the processing steps. Rick’s goal is to spark interest in this fascinating subject.

Rick Martinez’s journey began in San Antonio, Texas. His professional path has been deeply rooted in the realms of

audiovisuals, video production, satellite teleconferencing, and photography.

Twelve years ago, Rick transitioned into semi-retirement and relocated to Colorado. He now dedicates himself to Wildlife and Nature photography, capturing the raw beauty of the natural world.

The speaker series is a free event sponsored by the Estes Valley Photo Club. You do not have to be a member of the Estes Valley Photo Club to attend. The public is welcome.

Please forward any questions to Deena Sveinsson at sveinssons@beyondbb.com. Mark your calendar for this informative and interesting event!

The Sparkling Spa

Weekly and bi-weekly hot tub service for the Peak to Peak region 720-465-5501 thesparklingspa@gmail.com www.facebook.com/thesparklingspa

service $70/visit Bi-weekly service $80/visit

Photos by Rick Martinez

Grant Funding Dialogues For

Nonprofits: Grant Research, Building A Story-arc, And Relationships With Grantors

By: Karen McPherson, Estes Nonprofit Network

Nearly all nonprofits need (or could benefit from) grants. There are as many grants out there as missions. Grant Funding Dialogues is a half-day seminar led by professional grant writers from across the state of Colorado. Participants will receive practical guidance on securing grant funding for nonprofit organizations. It includes introductory presentations on grant-seeking best practices and interactive discussions on selected topics based on participant preferences. The program also features small group discussions for personalized support and guidance.

The seminar is led by the Grant Professionals Association (GPA), a nonprofit membership organization of grant professionals committed to serving the public good by practicing the highest ethical and professional standards. The Colorado Chapter of the GPA provides opportunities for professional development and networking. This workshop

hosted by the Estes Nonprofit Network is an extension of their mission to foster excellence in the professional practice of grant writing.

The Estes Nonprofit Network’s mission is to serve and strengthen Estes Valley nonprofits. Grant Writing Dialogues is part of the Network’s ongoing commitment to high-quality educational programs. This seminar is appropriate for beginner to intermediate grant writers, or those interested in learning more about writing grants. Content for this workshop is partially crafted in response to participant’s requests.

Registration for this workshop is limited to 25 participants. Join the Network and guest grant professionals on July 24, 8:30 a.m. -12:30 p.m. The Network’s educational programs are free for Estes Valley Nonprofit Staff and Volunteers, $50 for community members, government agencies, nonprofits not serving in Estes Park, and for-profits. Register at epnonprofit.org

Estes Park Special Olympics Tuesday Bowling Fun

Estes Park Special Olympics organizers are hosting bowling fun at the Bull Pin, 555 S. St. Vrain Ave. on Tuesdays from 3:30-5 p.m. All ages are welcome to participate.

For more information, contact Audri Smith at 970-451-3762 or email epspecialolympics@yahoo.com.

Estes Park Is Celebrating its 10th Anniversary Of Paint Estes Pink With Puzzle Contest

Paint Estes Pink was started 10 years ago for local businesses to participate during Rodeo Week to raise awareness of the town’s needs and funding for oncology services at Estes Park Health. This year’s Estes Park Health Foundation campaign is focused on adding a Philips EPIQ Elite ultrasound machine to EPH services. This technology will allow oncology services to perform precise, image-guided needle biopsies, increasing the overall speed and accuracy of cancer diagnosis and care for residents of Estes Park.

We are thrilled to announce that over 40 businesses are participating in this

And Big Bucks

year’s Paint Estes Pink event with hopes of another great fundraising year for our local hospital.

To make this year’s event the best yet we will feature an all-new puzzle contest for the public to participate in via visits to local businesses, featuring a grand prize cash drawing of $200 going to the winner on Friday, July 5th!

Your Paint Estes Pink Business Puzzle can be picked up for free at the Estes Park Visitor Center (500 Big Thompson Avenue, near the intersection of Highways 34 and 36).

Simply visit all of the participating businesses on the puzzle, get your puzzle stamped at each stop along the way, then return it to the Estes Park Visitor Center for your chance to win! You do not need to be present to win the grand prize.

Paint Estes Pink kicked off Wednesday, June 19th and runs through Friday, July 5th. All completed stamped puzzles must be turned in on or before 5 p.m. on Friday, July 5th to qualify.

Join the fun to support a great cause –high quality healthcare in Estes Parkand have the chance to win a big prize along the way!

75th Anniversary Of Our Lady Of The Mountains Catholic Church

Our Lady of the Mountains Catholic Church will celebrate its 75th anniversary Sunday, June 30 with Mass and a free community luncheon. Everyone is invited. Prelude music will begin at 9:30 a.m. Followed by our 10 a.m. Mass with Most Reverend Samuel J. Aquila, S.T.L., Archbishop of Denver, principal celebrant. Please note, there will be no other Mass at

the parish that day. After Mass, the archbishop will bless a memorial plaque marking the parish anniversary. Parishioners and the Estes Park community are invited to a luncheon that will be served at 11:30 a.m. under a large tent in the parking lot. Entertainment during the lunch is planned. Guests are asked to RSVP for the luncheon by using the QRC in the photo below.

Our Lady of the Mountains

75th Anniversary Celebration June 30, 2024 10 a.m. Mass with Most Reverend Samuel J. Aquila, S.T.L., Archbishop of Denver, principal celebrant followed by free luncheon at 11:30 a.m. Everyone is welcome. Please use QRC to RSVP for the lunch

Western Tanager

Photo by Dick Coe

Bank Of Estes Park Proudly Supports The Historic Stanley Home Foundation

Bank of Estes Park has been a significant, founding, five-figure supporter of the Historic Stanley Home Foundation ever since this local gem of a museum was still just a dream, and is proud to continue to support it today as a $1,500 table sponsor of its “A Night at the Mu-

seum Gala,” to be held the evening of July 25th at the Holiday Inn.

To become a sponsor, to buy tickets to the event, to make a donation, or even just to learn more about this important piece of Estes Park’s history, simply go to www.stanleyhome.org.

Bank Of Estes Park Goes Pink (Again!)

Over the years, Bank of Estes Park has won the Paint Estes Pink contest more than any other business in town—four times, and counting. But it’s not about decorations—it’s about helping out in a great cause. Last year, we turned the contest into an opportunity to support the cause—we invited the community to come to the bank to help us “paint the bank pink” with dedication ribbons that were given out with any donation, and with a bank match for all donations. And we won again that year--the bank has never been so pink… And we were able to award the EP Health Foundation with $1,000 in matched funds. But the time has come once again for all of us to rally in support of this great cause. This year the Mrs. Rooftop Rodeo Crowns for the Care is back, raising funds for a Philips EPIQ Elite ultrasound machine, which will allow for needle guided biopsies at EP Health—

leading to local, quick, and efficient breast cancer diagnosis in Estes Park. Bank of Estes Park supports this initiative in multiple ways, including participating in Paint Estes Pink, and donating directly to Crowns for the Care, and we encourage anyone who is willing and able, to do the same. Giving is easy at www.givetoeph.org/pink.

We are grateful to call Estes Park our home, in a community where everyone is working so hard to improve our little town—from the candidates for Mrs. Rooftop Rodeo, to the businesses participating in Paint Estes Pink, to the Rooftop Rodeo for offering up the spotlight, to the EP Health Foundation, which is at the center of it all, taking a new step each year to help support our local cancer warriors, and most of all, to the donors who step up each year to support this vital and worthwhile cause.

Aaron LaCombe On June 26 at American Legion Post 119

Aaron LaCombe is an award-winning songwriter of Americana and sad country music. His work blends humor with heartache, often with emphasis on the latter. Aaron’s performances will make you feel something. His gift is immersive storytelling, gift-wrapped in a catchy song. Based in central Texas, Aaron has toured the US and made many a new fan and friend in the process.

Aaron will soon perform at Estes Park's

American Legion Post 119 (850 North Saint Vrain Avenue). The concert will take place on June 26 at 6:00 p.m. Advance tickets can be purchased at legionlisten.org.

This event is part of "Listening at the Legion", a budget-minded concert series that brings nationally acclaimed music creators and performers to our town. Please visit legionlisten.org to learn more.

2023 Paint Estes Pink Winner, Bank of Estes Park, presents matched funds to EP Health Foundation.

“100 Women Who Care” Contribute To The American Legion

It was a great honor for members of the philanthropic organization “100 Women Who Care – Estes Park” to present a check for $8,525 to the Estes Park American Legion Post 119 Foundation. On hand to receive the funds were Mary Banken, volunteer extraordinaire, Dan Scace, the Legion’s Foundation President, Terry Rizzuti, past Post Commander and Service Officer, and Terry’s ever-faithful pal Raisin, chief Post mascot! For 104 years Estes Park’s American Legion Post has served the military veterans and citizens of our community. Mary, Dan, Terry, and many faithful veterans contribute time and talent to maintaining the Post property as an attractive place of fellowship, support, camaraderie, and incredible professional entertainment.

The members of “100 Women Who Care – Estes Park” give of their time, talent, and treasure to support such nonprofit organizations in the Estes Valley.

Members attend three meetings each year --- each lasting just one hour! At each meeting members are made aware of three worthy nonprofits in town. Thereafter there is a ballot vote to determine which organization the majority of members wish to contribute to. Since their 2021 inception, “100 Women Who Care” has raised $68,625 at just nine gettogethers. Every dollar stays in Estes Park. They deem their contributions an important investment in our community and its citizens.

The next meeting is coming up soon -- June 27th at the American Legion at 5:00 p.m. Thereafter, if members and guests wish to stay, a delicious dinner will be served. It will be a great evening! Current members will be on hand to share in great fellowship and to welcome new members. For further information please contact Janet Collison at: janet.collison@gmail.com

Nebraska Picnic July 14

It’s that time of year when the Cornhusker fight song bellows through the valley. Mark your calendar so that you can plan to attend the 5th Annual Nebraska Picnic on Sunday, July 14 at the Presbyterian Community Church, 1700 Brodie Avenue, Estes Park (please note the change in location). We will gather

at 4:00 p.m. and start serving at 4:30 p.m.

If you have any connection to Nebraska, whether a local or a visitor, come meet your fellow Cornhuskers for a fun gathering. Wear your Nebraska gear proudly as we sing the Husker fight song. “Big Red” hot dogs, as served at the stadium, will be provided (while they last), along with plates, napkins, utensils and condiments. Kool-Aid, invented in Hastings, Nebraska, will be free flowing at the Kool-Aid stand, as well as water. We request that you bring a potluck item to share and lawn chairs.

Please RSVP to estesfornebraska@gmail.com. We hope that you will be able to join in the fun.

Donation jars will be available for any contributions to help defray the cost of the event.

Dan Scace, Mary Liz Adair (100 Women), Mary Banken, Liza Zahn (100 Women), Terry Rizzuti and Raisin.

A Parade Of Elk

in the bright glare of the sun.

I’d taken an image like this once before. At sunrise, a bull moose at Brainard Lake was eating the leaves of willows just as the sun peaked the eastern horizon making his velvet antlers glow. Now, it was the unique image of elk, their antlers edged in sun yellow.

away lazy afternoons in grassy meadows, and return to the willows and aspen for an evening meal.

By: Brad Manard

In 1909, when John Phillip Sousa played at the Stanley Concert Hall to celebrate the opening of the geo-Georgian style Stanley Hotel, it must have evoked images of a grand parade led by the marching band.

Can you see the brass band instruments, their shining bells sparkling in the sunlight of a beautiful mountain day? Those were the thoughts that flashed through my mind when I recently saw a merry band of marching bull elk. They moved in a tight formation around the curve of Horseshoe Park, the morning sun backlighting the velvet of their glowing antlers.

Bull elk are an interesting breed. Two

All the while, their boney antlers from the fall rut have fallen away like new growth of adult teeth pushing the baby teeth out. As the new antlers grow they are surrounded by velvet that feeds the growth with nourishing blood, gaining

Seeing them march in a tight formation, I pulled quickly to the side of the road. Rushing with my camera, I was a respectable and safe distance in front of them. Like sparklers on the Fourth of July, the velvet of their antlers glowed while their bodies were a faded shadow

months a year, they battle for dominance, but the other ten months they’re a good ole boys’ club. They wander the woods together, move en masse into the parks (from the French “parc”), graze like fraternity boys at a buffet, sleep

nearly an inch a day.

That is what I witnessed on the June morning of the elk parade. Depending on their age, the elk antlers ranged from 3x3 stubs to five or six point tines on each side. Surrounded by velvet, they were thick and full, impressive even as they were growing and adding tines.

As I shot images, the elk marched on bold and proud like high stepping trombone players. They moved in line then stepped onto the blacktop passing the Lawn Lake Trailhead where tourists

celebration of a parade. Arriving home, I downloaded my many parade photos onto my computer. Then I began the post production process. As I did, I saw many nice images, but the initial images were special. In those images, the elk were shining. Bunched together, the sunlight made their velvet glow.

It had been exciting, rewarding, and beautiful as any parade should be, and the marching elk were a celebration of the season. I have no doubt John Phillip Sousa would have enjoyed the show.

lined the road watching.

From there they continued toward the Alluvial Fan, over the hill created by the 1982 flood debris, passed the picnic grounds, and moved down Endo Valley.

Then they came together to fill the road from edge to edge. High-stepping across the entire blacktop, their hooves made a rhythmic clicking sound on the pavement. Like a real parade, the ranger followed the marching elk in his official law enforcement vehicle as his blue and red lights swirled.

Eventually, reaching the end of the parade route near the gate at Old Fall River Road, the elk dispersed into the foliage. Rewarded with fresh greens, they enjoyed a post-parade snack. As they did, a line of vehicles passed by admiring the marching elk who had given them the

Having kids in public schools means education is personal for Marisol Rodriguez.

On the State Board Marisol will

Champion e昀orts to increase school funding so we can raise teacher pay and improve the physical conditions of our schools

Oppose book bans and e昀orts to transfer tax dollars away from public schools

Support school improvement e昀orts so that all kids have access to a great quality school, especially kids who have been overlooked and left behind

From the rehearsal halls of Estes Park to Manhattan, New York City, the Estes Park Chorale embarked on a great adventure. MidAmerica Productions invited the Chorale to sing at Carnegie Hall’s Stern Auditorium/Perelman Stage in a performance of “Magnificat,” composed and conducted by Sir John Rutter. Twenty-five singers rehearsed this imposing work weekly for five months here in Estes Park, and then joined nine other choirs in intense, inspiring rehearsal time with Sir John himself.

“Magnificat” was composed by Sir John specifically for massed choirs to be sung in Carnegie Hall. It was first performed in May of 1990, and is the canticle of the

How Do You Get To Carnegie Hall?

with other out of town family and friends rounded out the four-day experience.

Upon returning home, the Chorale received a very cordial note from Maestro Rutter, expressing his pleasure at the quality of the performance. What a nice reward from the

Virgin Mary, found in the opening chapter of Saint Luke’s Gospel. It begins at the point where Mary visits her cousin Elizabeth, having just learned she is to be the mother of Christ. Containing five movements, all but one performed in Latin, Rutter uses Gregorian themes associated with the text at various points in the work. “Challenging” is a word many singers used to reflect the difficulty of the 40-minute-long work as a whole.

Maestro Rutter was recently knighted by King Charles III upon the celebration of his birthday just weeks after the Chorale returned to Estes Park. Artistic director, Denise Stookesberry, called this event “Awesome news, well deserved!”

The trip to New York City was enhanced by some other highlights, including a performance of the musical “Hamilton,” at the Richard Rogers Theater and a late-night dinner cruise aboard the Spirit of New York around New York harbor to see the Statue of Liberty lit up aglow with lights. Sightseeing, special tours, some subway travel, international dinners, a fourblock-long street fair and connecting

singing under the direction of John Rutter.

We sang his composition ‘Magnificat,’ which in and of it-

very much to them all.

The Estes Park Chorale is pleased to serve as artistic ambassadors from our mountain home to the Big City. Special thanks also go out to director, Denise Stookesberry, for orchestrating this trip, as well as to Dave Stookesberry, who managed all the finances associated with the complicated logistics of the excursion.

composer.

Chorale members sent several favorite memories of this wonderful experience.

Marlene Krueger said “My favorite time was the rehearsals. He made them so much fun, and also made us better musicians.”

Elizabeth Marshall remembered “Walking the Highline trail, going to the 9/11 Museum, but above all singing with John Rutter and the EP Chorale. What a treat.”

From Carol Smith comes this note: “It was such an incredible experience singing in Carnegie Hall, not only for the joy of performing in that amazing venue, but for the

self is a work of art, but watching him conduct his own piece of music was witnessing an artist in motion!”

Diane Watson reported that her favorite memory was “seeing the look on John Rutter’s face after the performance was finished. It seemed that he was pleased with the choirs’ efforts in bringing his music to life.”

Financial support was provided to The Chorale by the Village Thrift Shop, John Cullen, the Town of Estes Park, Jay Grooters and several other donors. Thanks

More than 500 people are expected on Saturday, Oct. 26, 2024, at the Estes Park Event Center for the annual Treasure Tables shopping day. From 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. your table will be seen by hundreds of shoppers getting ready for the holidays. Don't miss this event, which has taken place annually for more than a decade. Vendors include artists, crafters, foodies and those selling household goods. Treasure Tables is offered by P.E.O. Chapter IY (our scholarships support female students) and is funded by vendor fees. It's a win-win! So contact us now to get the best location and get ready for big sales on Oct. 26. For vendor information contact peo.treasure.table@gmail.com.

What’s Happening At The Estes Valley Library

SUMMER HOURS

Mondays - Thursdays, 9 a.m. - 8 p.m.

Fridays & Saturdays, 9 a.m. - 5 p.m.

Sundays, 1 - 5 p.m.

Special Hours

Closed Thursday, July 4 in observance of Independence Day KEY

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

BOOKS & AUTHORS

Across the Atlas to Nepal with Pietro Simonetti Ⓡ

Friday, June 21, 6 - 7:30 p.m., Presbyterian Community Church of the Rockies & online

Pietro Simonetti, author and adventurer, will join us to discuss his 2023 humanitarian expedition to the remote Upper Mustang region of Nepal. He’ll also present two books that connected to his journey: The Rhythm of Breath by Na-

tional Geographic photographer

Michele Dalla Palma, and Ghosts of Our Perception, written by Simonetti himself. An “Adventure Begins At Your Library” Summer Reading Program event.

A Visit to Deckawoo Drive with Mercy Watson: Author Talk with Kate DiCamillo Ⓡ

Tuesday, July 9, 12 - 1 p.m., online

Newberry Medal winning author Kate DiCamillo will be sharing the stories behind the creation of her early chapter book series; the original Mercy Watson, and the follow-up series, Tales from Deckawoo Drive. Presented with the Library Speakers Consortium.

Book Club for Mortals:

Advice for Future Corpses Ⓡ

Thursday, July 11, 10 - 11:30 a.m., Wasson Room & online

Discuss end-of-life issues and our shared mortality. July’s featured title, Advice for Future Corpses (And Those

Who Love Them) by Sallie Tisdale is a lyrical, thought-provoking, yet practical perspective on death and dying.

ALL AGES

Tech Help with Digital Navigators of Larimer County

Wednesday, June 26, 1 - 7 p.m., Dream Study Room

Thursday, June 27, 1 - 7 p.m., Dream Study Room

Wednesday, July 3, 1 - 7 p.m., Dream Study Room

Wednesday, July 10, 1 - 7 p.m., Dream Study Room

Thursday, July 11, 1 - 7 p.m., Dream Study Room

Build your digital skills, including using your smartphone, accessing websites and accounts online, improving online communications, and more. Service offered in Spanish on Thursdays. Appointments and drop-ins available. Presented by AmeriCorps service members.

Adventure Continues with Origami Albums Ⓡ

Monday, July 8, 2 - 3 p.m., Makerspace

Use scrapbook paper and ribbon to make (and take home) an origami album that’s perfect for reliving your adventure memories. Recommended for adults and teens. An “Adventure Begins At Your Library” Summer Reading Program event.

Adventure Continues with Scrapbooking Ⓡ

Thursday, July 11, 5 - 6:30 p.m., Makerspace

Explore the materials and machines available in the Makerspace while learning the basics of creating a scrapbook page. Participants will create an original page to take home. Recommended for adults and teens. An “Adventure Begins At Your Library” Summer Reading Program event.

Pirates of the Caribbean: Watch Party & Craft Ⓡ

Saturday, July 13, 1:30 - 4:15 p.m., Hondius Room

Watch Pirates of the Caribbean: The Curse of the Black Pearl while eating pizza, painting a small treasure chest, and enjoying chocolate gold coins. Recommended for adults and teens. An “Adventure Begins At Your Library” Summer Reading Program event.

ADULTS

Weekly Poetry Meetup Ⓡ

Monday, July 8, 6:15 - 7:30 p.m., Wasson Room

Calling all poets (and aspiring ones)! Join your fellow writers at the Library on Monday evenings to share your work, receive and provide feedback, and create community around poetry. Facilitated by Alexis Silva.

TEENS & KIDS

Lego Club: Adventure in Legos Ⓡ Saturday, June 22, 3 - 4 p.m., Hondius Room

Explore different building and engineering challenges with Legos. This month, we’ll be building adventurous scenes. An “Adventure Begins At Your

Library” Summer Reading Program event.

Book vs. Movie Club: Jumanji Ⓡ

Saturday, June 29, 11 a.m. - 1:15 p.m., Reel Mountain Theater

Book or movie—which did you like best? We’ll discuss the book, then watch the movie adaptation. An “Adventure Begins At Your Library” Summer Reading Program event.

KIDS & FAMILIES

Library Storytimes

Babies: Thurs., Fri., & Sat. at 10 a.m.

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

Read to Therapy Dog Annie: Sat., July 6 at 11 a.m.

Storybook Explorers: Sat., July 13 at 11:15 a.m.

Colorado Natives: Our State’s Animals Ⓡ

Tuesday, June 25, 1 - 2 p.m., Estes Park High School Auditorium

From the high mountains to the open plains, Colorado is full of spectacular habitats for feathered, scaly, and slimy friends. Learn about our state’s wildlife and meet animal ambassadors! For ages 5 and up. An “Adventure Begins At Your Library” Summer Reading Program event.

Outdoor Storytime Adventures: MacGregor Ranch Museum Ⓡ

Wednesday, June 26, 10:30 - 11:15 a.m., MacGregor Ranch Museum

Learn all about horses! Join us for books, songs, rhymes, and a learning activity designed for littles ages 5 and under (and their caregivers). An “Adventure Begins At Your Library” Summer Reading Program event.

Outdoor Storytime Adventure: Mrs. Walsh’s Garden Ⓡ Wednesday, July 10, 10:30 - 11:15 a.m., Mrs. Walsh’s Garden

Learn all about wildflowers! Join us for books, songs, rhymes, and a learning activity designed for littles ages 5 and under (and their caregivers). An “Adventure Begins At Your Library” Summer Reading Program event.

MAKERSPACE

Meet & Make Ⓡ

Friday, July 5, 1 - 3 p.m., Makerspace

Meet our new Technology Arts Librarian Shari Baze and make a laser cut greeting sign to take home. Snacks provided. Recommended for adults and teens.

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 6 p.m.

KEY

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

Get Ready For The Ultimate Cycling Celebration: Bike Estes Day On June 26

On June 26, Bike Estes Day returns, promising a day of pedal-powered fun and community spirit in Estes Park. Organized by the Estes Park Cycling Coalition (EPCC), this year's event coincides with Colorado’s Bike to Work Day and features a range of exciting activities, including the popular Annual Costume Bike Parade and afterparty.

Bike to Work Day (6-9 a.m. at the Estes Park Visitors Center)

Start your day at 6 am at the Estes Park Visitors Center with the Bike to Work Day festiv ities. Enjoy complimentary Kind Coffee and bagels from Village Bagel, along with other tasty snacks. Participate in free yoga sessions led by Kerry from Estes Park Yoga at 7 a.m. and 8 a.m. Get your bike checked by a skilled mechanic from Bandits Bikes and blend your own smoothie with the "Blender Bike."

At 5:30 p.m., gather at the Visitors Center for the Costume Bike Parade. Decorate your bike and helmet with provided materials and show off your most creative costume. The parade begins at 6 p.m., traveling from the Visitors Center to Performance Park with traffic control to ensure a safe ride for all. Parents are encouraged to help their children keep up with the group, and helmets are a must!

Whether you bike, walk, or drive, everyone is welcome to join and support the cycling community.

Costume Bike Parade and Afterparty (5:30 p.m. onwards)

Once at Performance Park, enjoy complimentary pizza and sodas (donations to EPCC appreciated), and quench your thirst with craft beer from Lumpy Ridge Brewery and wine from Snowy Peaks Winery available for purchase. A bike mechanic from Estes Park Mountain Shop will be on hand for any bike issues. The evening will feature live music from “Buster and the Boomers,” keeping the festivities lively until 9 p.m. Join us on June 26 for a day of cycling, community, and fun at Bike Estes Day!

Welcome New Museum Staff

The Estes Park Museum would like to welcome two new employees – Collec-

growth in the future.

Visitor Coordinator Edwards will be

tions Assistant Mollie Beck and Visitor Coordinator Jeanna Edwards! Both positions are a 12-month contract and are being funded 75% by the Estes Park Museum Friends & Foundation, Inc. (Museum Friends & Foundation) and 25% by the Town of Estes Park and Estes Park Museum. The opportunity will allow for several opportunities to improve Museum services.

Collections Assistant Beck will professionally and properly process three large artifact donation backlogs dating back to 2013. With numerous donations on an annual basis, large donations with multiple items (sometimes hundreds), take time and diligence. Upon completion, a Collections Plan document will be executed to set the course for collections

responsible for day-to-day management of the gallery and volunteers, work with Museum Friends & Foundation and Museum staff to further develop the Museum Membership program, and a potential Museum Shop. The tasks will be directed under current Museum staff providing finances for the Museum Friends & Foundation and alleviate workload for the Museum Friends & Foundation Board to focus on goals of fundraising and advocacy. The Museum is very grateful for this opportunity and looks forward to the successes it will lead to in serving the community. Be sure to follow activities throughout the summer being hosted at the Museum at estes.org/museum or the Museum Facebook page.

Museum Program: Stories Behind The Stars By Dawn Wilson

On Saturday, June 29 at 1:00 p.m. join local author and photographer Dawn Wilson as she shares her stories and

that show star trails, Northern Lights, the Milky Way, an eclipse, and the moon from dark sky locations in Colorado,

night-sky photography. The program will take place in the Estes Park Museum meeting room; light snacks and refreshments will be provided. This program is free and open to the public. In the hours between sunset and sunrise, the sky transforms into a galaxy unfathomable in its size. But what is it like to be out in the cover of darkness? What is the experience like? And why are dark skies so important? Join Dawn Wilson for a free presentation to hear her stories about working in the darkness of night with her camera. She will reflect on her first time seeing a sky full of stars, tell stories about encounters with wildlife and her hopes for improving dark skies for animals that rely on it for hunting and resting. The presentation will include a collection of photos and videos

Alaska and more.

Dawn Y. Wilson is an award-winning nature photographer and travel writer who specializes in telling stories about wildlife and Rocky Mountain destinations. A 22-year resident of northern Colorado, including six in Estes Park, she served as the president of the North American Nature Photography Association (NANPA), was co-host of The Nature Photographer Podcast, guides in the Estes Park area, and writes for the Estes Park Trail-Gazette. Dawn’s photography and writing have appeared in more than 800 bylined pieces in a wide variety of publications, including Outdoor Photographer, Colorado Life, Colorado Outdoors, and MotorHome magazine, and in 2023, she published 100 Things to Do in Estes Park Before You Die.

It’s that time of the year that we, hopefully, think about and treasure the freedoms that we enjoy by living in this ‘Land of the Free and Home of the Brave’. It begins with the focus by multitudes on Juneteenth celebrations.

Being raised in the Rockies and having spent most of my life in the Midwest or West I was unaware of a day dedicated to celebrating the day when slaves were truly freed—not by official proclamation as customarily taught, but by an enforced reality, which took the form of one Union General and 2000 federal troops arriving in Galveston, Texas, to officially free slaves who were still being held in the last Southern state by rebellious slave-owners. As the result of finally learning of Juneteenth being a state holiday in Texas and observed in forty-four other states and D.C., we realize that Lincoln’s Emancipation Proclamation of 1863 had not ‘freed’ all those enslaved. Finally, two full years after the Proclamation, those Texas slaves were informed they were truly free. Imagine their plight during those 2 years as devious slave owners withheld the truth about ‘freedom’ from them as they slaved under the hot sun, in bondage and, often, in terror. With that in mind we can appreciate the joy and celebration that takes place every year with Juneteenth worship services, parades, and accompanying celebrations. It’s Juneteenth time…a time to experience and revel in freedom.

Sadly, this freedom is not experienced by all. Our daughter, Kristi Smith, has spent the past few weeks in Africa, helping City of Hope to ‘rescue’ young African girls that have been, or are in danger of being, taken captive and ‘trafficked’…and of course it doesn’t happen only in Africa, as we know. U.S. news reports makes us aware that various law enforcement agencies in our country have their hands full with such cases of ‘human trafficking’. So, it’s time for ‘freedom’ to be enjoyed…and appreciated…by all.

What a wonderful time to think about and revel in the ‘freedom’ and the ‘liberty’ that is found in Christ Jesus! There are more than fifty references to freedom in the New Testament, each of them exploring a different dimension of what Paul calls, in Romans, “the glorious liberty of the children of God”. Early in his ministry Jesus announced that his purpose in coming was, among others, to ‘set captives free’. He later shared: “So if the Son makes you free, you shall be free indeed.” (Jn.8:36) Later Paul would write, “Now the Lord is the Spirit, and where the Spirit of the Lord is, there is freedom.” (II Cor. 3:17)

But, what is that ‘liberty’…that ‘freedom’? We recognize that it doesn’t mean that we are ‘free’ to do whatever we want…there are laws that must be obeyed, rules that are appropriate to live in a society like ours. Most of these are very evident to us as needful so that order can prevail. A Jurist, Learned Hand, was asked, “What is the spirit of liberty?” His answer: “The spirit of liberty is the spirit which seeks to understand the minds of other men and women…it weighs their interests alongside its own…The spirit of liberty is the spirit of Him who, 2000 years ago, taught humanity a lesson it has never learned but has never quite forgotten: that there may be a kingdom where the least shall be heard and considered side by side with the greatest.” He closes with: “Sisters and Brothers in Christ, may our pledge of allegiance be this day to that kind of kingdom on earth, as it is in heaven.”

I hope you see yourself as ‘free’. Two men visited a circus. They noticed a huge elephant tethered to the ground by a very small peg. They were amazed that that elephant did not dislodge the pin and go where he wanted. They then realized that tiny pin had ‘controlled’ him from the time he was a baby elephant. He didn’t know he was free. We are! Jesus said: “You will know the truth, and the truth will set you free.” Bob Lewis

Creative Watercolor Painting Class This Weekend

This Saturday and Sunday the 22nd and 23rd of June, three local watercolor artists KC Benson, Scott Rashid, and Greg Miles, will be offering a watercolor class upstairs in the Estes Park Bank Building at 255 Park Lane, in Estes Park. Each of the instructors will be presenting unique techniques that they use to generate watercolor paintings

During the two days, the instructor will discuss their individual styles of painting and show a variety of techniques to create their art. After the instructors show their methods, the attendees will have time to duplicate those tech-

show their framed art and discuss the mat colors and frame types they decided upon to have their art framed. The

niques and subsequently use them to create their own paintings.

On Sunday the attendees will spend the afternoon painting with the instructors present to answer any questions that may arise. Scott, KC, and Greg will be painting on Sunday so the students can see what it takes for the artists to create paintings.

Everyone attending the class will have several hours to create their own watercolor paintings. The instructors will

two-day workshop will run from 9-5 on the 22nd and 12-4 on the 23rd. To attend the workshop, go to KC Benson Watercolors.com and click the green ink at the top of the page. Furthermore, please bring watercolor paint, watercolor paper, brushes, containers for water, subject matter that you might want to paint, lunch and snacks. See you on the 22nd at 9:00 a.m. upstairs in the Estes Park Bank Building at 255 Park Lane, in Estes Park. Don’t miss this great class!

June 21 – June 27

KC Benson

Scott Rashid

Greg Miles

Healing Paws: The Heartwarming Story Of Heidi And Judy's Journey

Looking for an engaging and uplifting way to spend your Tuesday afternoon?

Join Judy Archibald and her lovable German shepherd mix, Heidi, for the inspiring program “From Shelter to Therapy Dog” at the Estes Park Senior Citizens Center. Come hear their incredible journey on Tuesday, June 25, from 12:001:00 at 1760 Olympian Lane. This free event is open to all—don’t miss out!

Two years ago, Judy adopted a oneyear-old German shepherd/husky mix from Fort Morgan Animal Shelter. Because Heidi had such a gentle, tolerant nature, she readily took to her therapy dog training classes. After several weeks of training, Heidi passed the test to become a certified therapy dog. During the past year, Heidi has been visiting toddler story times, assisted living facilities, Memory Cafe gatherings, homebound patients, and weekly gatherings with Middle School Students.

Judy, a resident of Estes Park for 32 years, has been a writer most of her life. Her children's picture book, The Mutt & the Mustang, illustrated by Estes Park artist Patricia Greenberg, is based on the true story of a rescued horse who became friends with a small dog, letting him ride on his back every day. This fascinating book won First Place United States and Canada from the Independent Book Publishing Association. Judy has had both fiction and nonfiction books published by major publishers and for 25

years wrote feature articles for national art magazines, including Wildlife Art, Southwest Art, and Sculpture Forum. In 1996, after her husband, wildlife sculptor Brian Archibald, died of cancer, she led the effort, along with local Rotary clubs, to fund the installation of his life-size bronze sculpture of a cougar, Canyon Spirit Legacy, on Riverside Drive in Estes Park. She later built and operated Canyon Spirit Art Gallery on Highway 34 and served as Director of the Colorado Governor's Annual Art Exhibit at the Loveland Museum for ten years. Currently, Judy coordinates the Artist Charitable Fund, a nonprofit that helps pay medical bills for artists in crisis. Please come meet Judy and Heidi and learn about the healing benefits of therapy dogs.

For the presentation, you are welcome to bring your own lunch or pre-purchase a hot meal. Place your order before 1:00 p.m. on Monday, June 24. For this event, the Senior Center will be serving a BBQ Platter of beef brisket and pulled pork, with baked beans and coleslaw. The cost is $7 for EPSCC members and $11 for non-members. If you become an EPSCC member for just $35 per year, you will not only enjoy meal discounts but also gain access to all the amazing activities. For more information about the EPSCC or to order a meal for the presentation, please call the Senior Center at (970) 581-2195.

Estes Park Senior Citizens Center Menu

June 24 – 28

Monday, June 24 Country Fried Chicken w/ scrambled eggs, gravy, Hashbrowns & Biscuit

Tuesday, June 25 BBQ Platter – Beef Brisket & Pulled Pork w/ Baked Beans & coleslaw

Wednesday, June 26 Philly Chicken Sandwich (topped w/ mozzarella cheese, green peppers & onions) w/ Tomato Salad

Thursday, June 27 Spaghetti w/ Meatballs, garlic bread & side salad

Friday, June 28 Trout (4 oz) w/ Baked Potato & soup of the day

July 1 – July 5

Monday, July 1 Breakfast Croissant (scrambled eggs w/ cheese topped w/ ham), Hashbrowns & fruit

Tuesday, July 2 Roasted Herb Chicken (1/2) w/ Roasted Potatoes & vegetables

Wednesday, July 3 Hot Roast Beef Sandwich w/ Mashed Potatoes, gravy & vegetables

Thursday, July 4 CLOSED

Friday, July 5 Signature Salad w/ Grilled Salmon (greens topped w/ tomatoes, corn, cheese, craisins, pecans & croutons) w/ ranch dressing

Meals are $7 for current 2024 EP Senior Citizens Center members and are by reservation only. (Or 3 meals for $20; use pre-paid meal tickets.) Exact cash or check payment required. Reservations must be made by 1:00 PM at least one business day in advance. Note, if you want to reserve a meal for Monday, June 24th, you need to call before 1:00 PM on Friday, June 21st. For reservations call 970-581-2195 and leave a detailed message. Pre-paid meal tickets and membership forms are available at the Estes Park Senior Citizens Center located at 1760 Olympian Lane.

The Center is OPEN Monday thru Friday 10 – 1

TriFit M-W-F 10:30-11:15 AM Circuit Balance Class Monday 1-1:45 PM

Mahjong Tuesday 10 – 2 Yoga Thursday 10:15 - 11:15 AM

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

Aspen Club Blood Pressure Check 4th Wed. of the month 10:00 – 1:00; Presentations (TBA) Two Bridge Groups: 1st, 3rd, & 5th Wednesday of the month & Every Thursday 12:30 – 4:30 PM Reserved Meals-to-Go delivered to your vehicle or EAT at the Senior Citizens Center Check out our website: estesparkseniors.org or call for the latest information

Opening This Weekend- Fine Arts Guild Production Of Newsies Jr.

It’s here! Newies Jr. opens this Saturday, June 22 at the High School Auditorium at 7:00 p.m., and if that time doesn’t work, join us on Sunday, June 23, at 2:00 p.m. The actors have spent the past two weeks polishing their delivery of dialogue in their best New York accents, their choreography and musical delivery. The costumes, thanks to Kerry Aiken and Susan Stevens are wonderful as is the set designed by Greig Steiner and brought to reality by Tim Phillips and the tech crew, Paige Adams, Quinn Battin, Lily Beers, Stella Chionio, William Holland, Sophia Mabry and Vivian Nedobuhk.

The thirty-one actors portray everyone

Seitz: Ben Hocker*

Hannah: Maya Brandewie*

Snyder: Carsyn Zehr*

Medda Larkin: Victoria Holland

Pat: Cody Harrold*

Camille Mabry* BOWRY BRIGADE

Ada: Maya Brandewei*

Olive: Lela Fortini*

Ethel: Rachel Blevins*

Dorothy: Amelia Watry*

dred. Interest in the war increased circulation and the moguls increased the cost to sixty cents per hundred. When the war ended, readership declined, the newsies were having trouble selling papers, and there was no buyback system in place. Some papers returned the cost to pre-war levels but Pulitzer and Hearst did not.

To the individual newsies the extra ten cents made a big difference, and to the newspaper publishers the total of all those dimes was significant. The newsies weren’t happy, but It wasn’t until a group on July18 found that the bundles they were buying had fewer than one hundred papers. They tipped the distribu-

from newsies, the poor kids and orphans who sold newspapers on the street, to Pulitzer, the millionaire newspaper owner and Governor Teddy Roosevelt. The Cast

Jack Kelly: Jasper Bolster

Crutchie: Natalie Workman

Katherine: Cayla Piper

Darcy: Isla Pontius

Morris Delancey: Casey Mieszala*

Oscar Delancey: Cody Harrold*

Wiesel: Ellora Medina*

Les: Ogden Piper

Davey: Ayla Chinn

Joseph Pulitzer: Joshua Blevins*

Bunsen: Anderson King*

Bill: Casey Mieszala*

Governor Teddy Roosevelt: Gabriel Cabrera*

NAMED NEWSIES:

Race: Whitman Bolster

Albert: Anderson King*

Muriel: Amelia Johnston

Nancy: Ellie King*

Specs: Lorelai Piper

Pigtails: Denali Kraft*

Hazel: Payten Hansen

Buttons: Ava Bangs

Tommy Boy: Summer Darby*

Romeo: Lyric Chinn

Jo Jo: Stori Adams*

Scabs: Bethy Hocker*, Stori Adams*,

Summer Darby* POLICE OFFICERS: Lela Fortini*, Ellie King*, Carsyn Zher* NEWSIES WITHOUT NAMES/WORKING CHILDREN: Gabriel Cabrera*, Bethy Hocker*, Ben Hocker*, Joshua Blevins*, Rachel Blevins*, Lela Fortini*, Camille Mabry*, Stori Adams*, Amelia Watry*, Maya Brandewie*, Carsyn Zehr*, Ellora Medina*, Casey Mieszala*, Cody Harrold*

The story is based on the 1899 strike by the newsies against Joseph Pulitzer and William Randolph Hearst. The newsies had to buy the papers they sold and before the Spanish American War the cost to the newsies was fifty cents per hun-

tor’s wagon over, and stole the papers. The following day they gathered and formed a union. The strike had begun. Over the next two weeks the chil-

dren got more organized. They refused to sell their publishers’ papers. Instead, they marched, held rallies, and punished any “scabs” who dared to disobey. “Just stick together,” declared one of the strike leaders, “and we’ll win,” and by August 2 had Hearst and Pulitzer on their knees. It was truly a David and Goliath story and the newsies had won, bringing Hearst and Pulitzer to the table. The cost of the papers remained at sixty cents per hundred, but the publishers agreed to buy back any unsold papers at full cost. Tickets for the performances on Saturday and Sunday are available online at fineartsguild.org, at Macdonald Book Shop and at the door.

Ellie King*,

Rocco, Maya, Goose, Speck And Ghost Seeking New, Loving Forever Families

Rocco is a funny, happy dog! He’s a lover of people and dogs big and small Rocco is about three years old, weighs around 53 pounds and is housetrained. He’s ready to be adopted.

Maya is about a year old, good-natured and weighs 46 pounds. She is great with other dogs.

Goose is a short haired border collie mix who weighs about 55 pounds. He was raised with kids and is good with dogs and cats as well. He is about 2 1/2 years old.

We also have two puppies, Ghost and Speck. They are about six months old, likely border collie/husky mixes. They are both so cute! They currently weigh about 30 pounds.

Please call (970) 286-1652 if you’d like to meet or foster any of these special pets.

All pets are offered through the Pet Association of Estes Park, a non-profit organization that is the Estes Valley’s only humane society.

Special notice: The Pet Association’s

annual yard sale will be held this Satuurday, June 22 at Kearney & Sons Excavating, 1300 Acacia Drive. See page 11 for details. All proceeds will benefit the Pet Association.

You can make a tax-deductible dona-

tion to the Pet Association by sending your check to P.O. Box 4342, Estes Park, CO 80517.

For more information about the Pet Association, please visit petassociationestespark.com

ROCCO

SPECK

GOOSE

MAYA

Sketching And Painting Nature Class Starts June

Have you ever wanted to draw and paint the creatures in the natural world? Well, if so, here’s your chance. Scott Rashid the director of the Colorado Avian Research and Rehabilitation Institute (CARRI) is an accomplished watercolor artist (among other things) who creates unique watercolor paintings.

Every Tuesday morning, attending artists will be in the field sketching for about an hour or so and then return to the studio to create watercolor paintings. Each attendee can choose what they want to paint. You can bring photographs of the subjects that you want to paint. We will also have the opportunity to create paintings of birds, animals, trees, flowers, and more.

Each morning, we will meet upstairs at

the Estes Park Bank Building 255 Park Lane, which is also where the indoor painting portion of the classes will be held. We will then move to an area outdoors and sketch in nature for about an hour. After that, we will return to the studio and create watercolor paintings for the rest of the morning.

Attendees will need to bring sketch books, pens, or pencils and their watercolor supplies, as well as the proper attire to be outside for an hour. To attend Sketching and Painting Nature, go to www.carriep.org and click the link Painting and Sketching in Nature.

See you upstairs at the Estes Park Bank Building 255 Park Lane Estes Park. Look forward to drawing and painting on June 25th and every Tuesday thereafter.

Rooftop Has A Big Reach

Volunteers are the spark that ignites the rodeo’s engine Rooftop Rodeo isn’t just a community event.

It’s a regional happening that reaches people globally, and it takes place for six straight summer nights – at 7 p.m. Friday, July 5-Wednesday, July 10, at Granny May Arena inside the Estes Park Fairgrounds.

Much of the reason for that is the large tourism base that attracts millions to town each year, but there’s more to it. Of the dozens of volunteers, many come from outside Estes Park and venture to town to help organize and produce the annual event.

“I do it because we’ve got a great group of people that work together to put on an awesome rodeo,” said Meg McEachron, a volunteer since 2018 who lives in Berthoud, Col orado, where she trains horses and teaches riding lessons. “It’s fun to show our way of life to so many people who don’t normally get exposed to it.”

She was raised in upstate New York, but she’s no East Coast prude. She was raised around livestock and has always understood a more Western way of life.

has been involved with Rooftop Rodeo since 2005.

“I’ve always enjoyed the sport of rodeo, and then I had the opportunity to meet and get to know some people who were on the rodeo committee,” said Dennis, who is in charge of the timed-event chute, including serving as the man to trip the latch when a contestant is ready to compete. “I joined the committee, and, now, some of my closest friends are on that committee.

“We not only truly enjoy the lifestyle the week of the rodeo, but we enjoy the year-round camaraderie of being part of that group of people.”

McEachron, who is in charge of the production team and helps coordinate other aspects of the rodeo, said she loves the event but, like Dennis, loves the collaboration with others even more. It’s a true team setting, which is why the rodeo has been so successful over the years.

“My grandfather was a horseman; he stopped riding before I was born, but I definitely heard his love for it my whole life,” she said. “I was fortunate enough to have really great neighbors who had horses, so I got to be involved with their horses and helped exercise them, which was a great way to learn about the Western lifestyle.

“I went to my first rodeo when I was 11 or 12 – just a small one in upstate New York – and I fell in love with it.”

Though McEachron makes a living with horses, she still takes the time to volunteer for Rooftop Rodeo and be around them even more in one of the most beautiful settings in the sport.

“We have a strong volunteer base from other Colorado communities, and we need their help,” said Rob Hinkle, the community services director with the Town of Estes Park. “Estes Park is a small community, and July is one of the busiest months of tourism.”

He estimated that 90 people a year donate their time, talent and energy to the rodeo.

“The town would not be able to put on the rodeo without the help of all our volunteers,” he said. “It takes a committed group that meets for six months and then works the six-day rodeo. When this year’s rodeo ends, we will immediately start planning for next year. We hold a debrief meeting with all the volunteers, because we can always learn and improve.

“It took over 1,900 hours of volunteer help to produce last year’s rodeo.”

Brett Dennis puts in his share of time toward that. He works for UCHealth and lives in Firestone, Colorado, which is about 45 miles from the rodeo arena. He

“We’ve got a really great group of people who have stuck it out through all the changes we’ve had recently,” she said. “It’s just a fun group to be part of, and it’s really nice to have this group of people who wants to try hard and makes the show a little bit better for our fans and our contestants.”

Dennis grew up in a farming community in Illinois. Even as a youngster, there was something about rural America that drew him to it.

“When I was real little, the other kids would talk about wanting to be police officers and firefighters and doctors and lawyers,” he said. “I used to tell everybody I just wanted to be a farmer.”

He may not be in the field planting crops or trying to guess the right time to sell his grain, but he loves being associated with Rooftop Rodeo.

“I spend a lot of time in an office these days, so for one week, I play cowboy,” Dennis said. “It truly has to do with the friendships and relationships that we’ve made throughout the years. We have a good, strong group of highly motivated people to put on the best rodeo we can on a regular basis.

“I think it’s cool to be part of something bigger than we are on a regular basis. I’ve got two young girls that have literally spent their entire lives going to the rodeo in Estes Park for a week in July.”

Gates for Rooftop Rodeo open at 5 p.m. Friday, July 5-Wednesday, July 10, with the preshow beginning at 6:30 p.m. and the rodeo beginning at 7 p.m. For more information about Rooftop Rodeo, which is a Town of Estes Park signature event, or to order tickets online, log on to www.RooftopRodeo.com. Other ticket inquiries may be made by contacting the Town of Estes Park Events office at events@estes.org or (970) 586-6104.

Estes Park Welcomes Rodeo

Fans, locals and tourists can enjoy fun during town’s signature event

No matter the direction from which they come, the drive into this scenic community is both magnificent and engaging.

That spectacular view and the many others that come while in Estes Park are why it’s a destination for millions of people every year. From escapades around town to the majesty of the Rocky Mountains, it’s the perfect setting for tourists throughout the summers.

One of the attractions available to them is Rooftop Rodeo, set for 7 p.m. Friday, July 5Wednesday, July 10, at Granny May Arena inside the Estes Park Fairgrounds.

“We have a large amount of tourists that attend our rodeo, so we are giving them the Western experience,” Hinkle said. “For many, we are introducing them to the great sport of rodeo and a way to see some pretty great athletes in a different level than they’ve ever seen before.”

That’s the thing about Western sports: The athletes aren’t just human. Rodeo offers a chance to see amazingly fast horses that can run in straight lines, stop on a dime or make it around a cloverleaf pattern while also seeing the pure athleticism that comes from a bucking horse or a bucking bull as it performs.

“The Town of Estes Park has supported rodeos for nearly 100 years, and Rooftop Rodeo is our town’s signature event,” said Rob Hinkle, the community services director for the Town of Estes Park. “For us, it’s something we take great pride in as a community.

“The six-day event has a large economic impact for the town, and it helps support many non-profits in the community.”

Both aspects are critical and serve as a big reason why the town conducts the annual rodeo. While the town owns Rooftop Rodeo, the administrators lean on rodeo coordinator Cindy Schonholtz, who not only produces the event but also helps direct the large contingent of volunteers.

Each performance is filled with a variety of world-class competition, sidesplitting comedy and fun for an entire clan. That’s quite the attraction to for a family on vacation, already in a vibrant community that seeks to greet each guest with service and gratitude.

Ropers are like basketball’s 3-point shooters, only the cowboys have to be more accurate. While an NBA player has a guaranteed salary and will likely get a raise by making 35 percent of his shots from beyond the arc, a roper has no secured income and had better be 95 percent accurate if he’s going to earn a paycheck at the rodeo.

When mixed with drill teams, fun for the kids and the antics of 10-time PRCA Clown of the Year Justin Rumford, it’s an action-packed evening with great entertainment value for those in the audience.

“Our rodeo has a great mix of locals, rodeo enthusiasts and tourists, some of whom have never been to a rodeo,” Hinkle said. “I think our rodeo does a great job of building new fans for the sport.

“We are at the entry of the Rocky Mountain National Park that has over 4.5 million visitors a year. Our community thrives on being welcoming and offering great hospitality to our guests.”

Gates for Rooftop Rodeo open at 5 p.m. Friday, July 5-Wednesday, July 10, with the preshow beginning at 6:30 p.m. and the rodeo beginning at 7 p.m. For more information about Rooftop Rodeo, which is a Town of Estes Park signature event, or to order tickets online, log on to www.RooftopRodeo.com. Other ticket inquiries may be made by contacting the Town of Estes Park Events office at events@estes.org or (970) 586-6104.

Meet The Kissing MooseLittle Red Food Truck

Vicki Haan, owner of the Kissing Moose food truck has been in the food industry all of her life. Her love of cooking and baking came from her mother who loved to cook and entertain. Vicki said, “My mother loved to feed anyone

yogurt parfaits, muffins, BBQ pork and chicken, mac and cheese, reubens, chicken salad, soups, the most wonderful pastries and more!

Vicki has another business called, “Mountain Berry Bakery and Catering."

who would drop in for a visit. That is how she shared her love. I guess that trait was passed down to me!”

You may have tasted some of her delicious pastries at other local restaurants which she supplies. Her love of cooking shows in each and every one of her products. Give her a visit. You’ll find yourself going back for more!

Vicki’s new adventure is the Kissing Moose, the cute little red food truck located at 830 Moraine Avenue. Her food truck can be found one mile from the RMNP entrance on Route 36 just before the Tiny Town Miniature Golf.

Vicki proudly serves breakfast and lunch from 5:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m. every day. Her food is delicious and totally made from scratch. She offers breakfast burritos, quiches, breakfast casseroles,

For a complete menu, visit her website at: kissing-moose-food-truck.square.site Orders can be made through her website and as an added bonus, picnic baskets are available for your day in the park (please give a days notice for advance orders).

Knitting & Crocheting Get-Together

Everyone is welcome to our free knitting and crocheting get-togethers!

We meet in the Hondius Community Room at the Estes Park Library.

Our 2024 meeting dates are:

Tuesday, July 9, 2024, 5:00-7:30 p.m.

Tuesday, August 13, 2024, 5:00-7:30 p.m.

Tuesday, September 10, 2024, 5:00-7:30 p.m.

Tuesday, October 8, 2024, 5:00-7:30 p.m.

Tuesday, November 12, 2024, 5:00-7:30 p.m.

Tuesday, December 10, 2024, 5:00-7:30 p.m.

Bring your woolly project, and let’s craft together.

If you’d like to learn to knit, we can teach you! It’s free.

Just show up! We’ll provide yarn and knitting needles for you to use during the meeting.

If you have any questions, please contact Jennifer Daley at email jenny@knittingjenny.com.

By: Larry Strong

“Clean Up On Aisle 5!”

I worked at a grocery store in high school, and for some reason, I was the person who became the “clean up guy” whenever something got broken, spilled or fell over in the aisle. The only time I minded it was when a little kid decided to empty the contents of their stomach. Taking care of that one without losing the contents of my own stomach was always an adventure. In those days, doing “clean up on aisle 5” was pretty straightforward. Grab the broom, trash can, mop, bucket and get ‘er done! But things have gotten complicated. Who caused the spill? Who’s to blame? Was anybody injured?

Any liability? How much of a scene or inconvenience has occurred? Was the shelf properly stocked? Who stocked it?

How long will it take to get the aisle back to normal?

How much damaged goods?

Things have not only gotten compli cated, they’ve gotten confusing. What’s up is down, what’s right is debat able, what’s true is relative and what’s wrong is anybody’s guess. The guilty are set free, the innocent are incarcerated and men are desperately trying to figure out who in the world they’re supposed to be. Do you ever feel like a pin ball machine and your tilt warning is going on non-stop? You’ve got company. Is it possible to return to some foundation of normalcy and stop making things complicated that aren’t? Can we get back to basics?

mean? We’ve taken a concept—a command—and have made it into something it’s not—complicated.

God’s Word tells us that love means doing what God has commanded us and He has commanded us to love one another. I’m not sure one can get more basic or simple than that. For the record, loving others is hard. That’s why it’s in short supply. It’s especially hard when someone’s aisle needs cleaned up and they’re looking for help. Being willing to get our hands dirty and smelly isn’t for the thin skinned, and after all, things might get complicated. That’s why loving each other is a command not a suggestion.

How about starting with loving one another? Whoa Larry! I though you said let’s keep things simple! See what I

Every Saturday Men on Fire meets at the American Legion at 8:00 a.m. We’re a very diverse group of guys with widely differing life and faith journeys but with a couple things in common. One, we’re striving to give God more control of our lives. Two, we’re trying to get back to basics and keep things simple. That’s why we focus on number one. For certain, we’ve made plenty of messes on our aisles. But we take comfort in knowing a loving God willing and available to help us clean up. I guess if there ever was an expert “Clean Up Guy,” it’s God. So men, join us this Saturday at the American Legion, 850 N. St. Vrain at 8:00 a.m. In addition to getting back to basics we’ve got breakfast burritos, donuts and coffee to offer. Don’t worry about how messed up your aisle is or your “damaged goods.” We’ve seen and lived far worse messes. Besides, we know just the perfect “Clean Up Guy” to lend a hand. See you Saturday.

Friends Of Folk A Great Event

To The Editor:

Just want the thank the Estes Park Arts District for sponsoring and putting on such a beautiful local music event - the Friends of Folk concert at Performance Park on June 18th. The music was wonderfully diverse (something for everyone), the crowd was local and it was just so much fun. Also thanks to all the great volunteers and musicians for everything. The Arts District is doing a great job supporting local arts and I urge everyone to support them. They are a local non-profit and they deserve widespread community support to allow them to continue to support our vibrant local art scene. Thank You Arts District!

Sincerely, Ron Wilcocks

Crowns For The Care Candidate Elena Nedobukh

Estes Park Health Foundation’s Crowns for the Care contestants compete for the title of Mrs. Rooftop Rodeo each year by participating in our fundraising competition, where the highest-earning philanthropist is crowned during Pink Night at the Rooftop Rodeo. All proceeds directly benefit cancer care in Estes Park.

This week we are introducing candidate Elena Nedobukh.

Elena has been an animal lover her whole life. She grew up in Russia but has called Estes Park home for nearly 20 years.

Happily married to her husband Joshua, and the proud parent of three daughters, family is central to her life. “We love camping, hiking, biking as well as snowboarding and skiing,” she said.

Elena is leveraging her love for animals in her quest to be crowned Mrs. Rooftop Rodeo 2024, because “when people come together great things happen.”

visiting elenasbarkinglot.com - look for the support button on the homepage.

When asked why she wanted to compete for Mrs. Rooftop Rodeo, Elena said, “Estes Park Health does a lot for the community. We have great people living here that make this community one of a kind, and giving back is something that I wanted to do. This is my chance to do it.”

Through her Barking Lot clients, Elena has seen the devastation a cancer diagnosis can bring. Specifically, she mentioned Dan Copeland, who passed away last Christmas.

“I’m friends with his daughter, Grace, and it was heartbreaking to know that her dad passed away. I’m doing it for Grace, to support her and her family and to remind people that we are stronger together,” she said.

Crowns For The Care Candidate Ania Leahy

Estes Park Health Foundation’s Crowns for the Care contestants compete for the title of Mrs. Rooftop Rodeo each year by participating in our fundraising competition, where the highest-earning philanthropist is crowned during Pink Night at the Rooftop Rodeo. All proceeds directly benefit cancer care in Estes Park.

This week we are introducing candidate Ania Leahy.

Cheers to Pink Ribbon! If you find yourself dining out in Estes this month, look for the pink ribbon drink on the menu. One hundred percent of the proceeds will benefit Crowns for the Care and Mrs. Rooftop Rodeo, thanks to Ania.

mother was diagnosed, and it was a tough time for her whole family. And unfortunately, her uncle passed away seven years ago after a three-year battle with leukemia.

Leahy started working for The Egg in college and became owner of the Estes Park location in 2017. With her husband Ryan and the same dedicated team of servers and support staff, Ania’s Egg of Estes is proud to be a fully independent, local operation.

Nedobukh and company will host the Lake Estes Dog Walk on June 23, where three lucky participants will have a shot at winning $350 worth of gift cards at Estes Park Pet Supply and a delicious dining experience at Himalayan Curry and Kebob for the humans.

She is also offering a Paint Estes Pinkthemed doggie photo shoot for one lucky family. You can find information about Elena’s Crowns for the Care Campaign and the Lake Estes Dog Walk by

To support Elena and her campaign for female-friendly cancer care visit GiveToEPH.org/crowns - please mention ‘Elena Nedobukh’ in the comments field of your donation.

You may also support her by writing a check to “Estes Park Health Foundation” with Elena’s name on the memo line and mailing it to EPH Foundation at PO Box 3650, Estes Park, CO 80517.

To learn more about Paint Estes Pink, visit GiveToEPH.org/pink or email giving@eph.org.

Originally from Poland, Ania has called Estes Park home for the past eighteen years. She and her husband Ryan have a nine-year-old son, Shane. When the Crowns for the Care committee nominated her to compete for Mrs. Rooftop Rodeo 2024, she gladly accepted.

“My family was affected by this disease, and I know how heavy the load was for all of us,” she says. “Truth be told, we all have in our life someone who has been affected by cancer, and whether close family or an acquaintance, they matter and you want to help them.”

Ania’s mother is a breast cancer survivor. She was only fourteen when her

Crowns For The Care Candidate Carissa Streib

Estes Park Health Foundation’s Crowns for the Care contestants compete for the title of Mrs. Rooftop Rodeo each year by participating in our fundraising competition, where the highest-earning philanthropist is crowned during Pink Night at the Rooftop Rodeo. All proceeds directly benefit cancer care in Estes Park. This week we are introducing candidate Carissa Streib.

She and husband Josh McGill own two businesses in town: Simply Christmas and Lynard Services. Carissa also serves as the Board Chair of the Estes Chamber of Commerce because she is passionate about seeing small businesses thrive in our community.

She was born and raised in Estes Park, and her Crowns for the Care campaign represents her dedication to the town. “This is for everyone. I love Estes for so many reasons and am thankful to

be able to raise my kids here.”

She also has a love for “square-headed” dogs and may often be seen walking her pups around town.

“I always feel like everything comes full circle and this was it for me and the hospital,” she said. “Having the technology of the ultrasound machine will benefit all women in the area and save us the stress of a slow diagnosis and help speed up advanced care as needed.”

Carissa lost her grandmother Eleanor to pancreatic cancer when she was in high school. Her uncle Ken recently passed away from cancer as well.

“So this would be for them, but I also can think of friends and neighbors who have gone through it in my last four decades of living here, and it seems like everyone knows someone who is going through it or has gone through the journey of cancer,” she said.

She has set a goal of raising $15,000 for Estes Park Health during her quest to be crowned Mrs. Rooftop Rodeo in 2024.

Even though the name has changed, you’ll find the same great service and delicious food you’ve come to expect from The Egg. And throughout June, customers can round up their ticket and donate the change to Ania’s campaign for Mrs. Rooftop Rodeo.

To support Ania and her campaign for female-friendly cancer care visit GiveToEPH.org/crowns - please mention ‘Ania Leahy’ in the comments field of your donation.

You may also support her by writing a check to “Estes Park Health Foundation” with Ania’s name on the memo line and mailing it to EPH Foundation at PO Box 3650, Estes Park, CO 80517.

To learn more about Paint Estes Pink, visit GiveToEPH.org/pink or email giving@eph.org.

When asked why people should consider donating to her campaign, Carissa responded with gratitude. “Thank you, you are awesome for helping the community members of Estes have a better experience finding and fighting cancer.”

Carissa and all the Mrs. Rooftop Rodeo candidates strive to be a beacon of hope for those affected by cancer - past, present and future.

To support Carissa and her campaign for female-friendly cancer care visit GiveToEPH.org/crowns - please mention ‘Carissa Streib’ in the comments field of your donation.

You may also support her by writing a check to “Estes Park Health Foundation” with Carissa’s name on the memo line and mailing it to EPH Foundation at PO Box 3650, Estes Park, CO 80517.

To learn more about Paint Estes Pink, visit GiveToEPH.org/pink or email giving@eph.org.

More Evidence CT Scans For Lung Cancer Work: EPH Offers This Important Test

Fewer than one in five people who could benefit from a lung cancer screening are getting the test. That’s according to a newly released study led by American Cancer Society researchers.

Estes Park Health now offers low dose CT lung scans for patients who qualify. This quick and painless test can provide a wealth of information and save lives.

“Results just keep coming in,” said Estes Park Health Radiologist Dr. John Knudtson. “A new study involving 58,000 veterans showed a significant reduction in mortality from lung cancer when this test is used to catch the disease early. There is more and more confirmation that low dose lung screening is having a huge impact on a major killer.”

Lung cancer kills more people in the world than any other cancer.

Researchers involved in the Veterans Health Administration study published

in the June 10 journal Cancer determined patients who were screened with low dose CT had much higher rates of early-stage cancer diagnoses than the people who were not screened. The difference was significant: 52% to 27%.

Current recommendations outline a yearly low-dose CT scan for people between the ages of 50 and 77, shows no symptoms of lung cancer, has a tobacco smoking history of at least 20 pack years, is a current smoker or someone who has quit in the last 15 years, and has received an order for the test.

If you think you may qualify for this important cancer screening, talk to your primary care physician. Estes Park Health’s Diagnostic Imaging Department is happy to schedule the test for you.

For important cancer screening close to home, think Estes Park Health. Mountaintop Medicine, Quality Care.

Estes Park Health Receives New Quality-Based Accreditation From DNV

Estes Park Health announces the successful completion of its new accreditation process from has been awarded by DNV.

By earning accreditation, Estes Park Health has demonstrated it meets or exceeds patient safety standards (Conditions of Participation) set forth by the U.S. Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services.

DNV’s accreditation program is the only one to integrate the ISO 9001 Quality Management System with the Medicare Conditions of Participation.

zations around the world to advance their quality and sustainability objectives.

“The DNV program is consistent with our longterm commitment to quality and patient safety,” says EPH CEO Vern Carda. “The ability to integrate ISO 9001 quality standards with our clinical and financial processes is a major step forward.”

Estes Park Health has three years from the date of its accreditation to achieve compliance with ISO 9001, the world’s most trusted quality management system used by performance-driven organi-

“We have taken an entirely different approach to accreditation, and hospitals are really responding,” says DNV Healthcare USA Inc. President Kelly Proctor. “Since accreditation is a must-have credential for just about every hospital in this country, why not make it more valuable, and get more out of it? That’s where ISO 9001 comes into play and turns the typical get-yourticketpunched accreditation exercise into a quality transformation.”

DNV’s accreditation program, called NIAHO® (Integrated Accreditation of Healthcare Organizations), involves annual hospital surveys – instead of every three years – and encourages hospitals to openly share information across departments and to discover improvements in clinical workflows and safety protocols.

Vacation Bible School At Mount Calvary Lutheran Church

VBS-Vacation Bible School runs July 15-19 from 9-11:30 a.m. at Mount Calvary Lutheran Church, 950 N. Saint Vrain Ave.

For children entering K – 6th Grades (2024)

To register call Mount Calvary at 970586-4646.

Hope to see your children as we celebrate the savior! Bible stories, crafts, game activities, snacks, music! Joy! For registration and more information please contact Pastor Paul Rhode at 303746-8687.

If you think you may qualify for this important cancer screening, talk to your primary care physician. Estes Park Health’s Diagnostic Imaging Department is happy to schedule the test for you.

A new study involving 58,000 veterans showed a significant reduction in mortality from lung cancer when low dose CT scans are used to catch the disease early. Photos by Wendy Rigby/Estes Park Health

Help EPH Add Important Ultrasound Equipment

Support the Mrs. Rooftop Rodeo project for 2024

The Estes Park Health Diagnostic Imaging department has ultrasound technology, but it is time for an upgrade. Ten generous women taking part in the Mrs.

sound-guided biopsy.”

Instead of having to wait two or three weeks for a biopsy appointment down valley, Estes Valley patients would be able to get a local appointment quickly and potentially have an answer in less

Rooftop Rodeo campaign are donating their time and talents this summer to raise money for the updated equipment. The Mrs. Rooftop Rodeo campaign is raising money for the upgrade. The new Philips EPIQ Elite ultrasound machine will (among other things), allow EPH’s

than a week’s time.

“In addition to breast care services, we want to have top quality ultrasound imaging for all our ultrasound services here, especially in the detection and diagnosis of other cancers like uterine, endometrial, and ovarian cancers,” Dr.

on-site radiologist to conduct needle biopsies to test for breast cancer, speeding up care for local patients.

“In conjunction with our state-of-theart 3D mammography, we want to add state-of-the-art, high-resolution ultrasound in order to be able to provide a prompt and confident diagnosis for anything that might come up on a mammogram that could be abnormal or anything concerning to patients,” explained EPH Radiologist Dr. John Knudtson. “We will be able to immediately get patients in for a diagnostic ultrasound and, if need be, we can also add on an ultra-

Knudtson added. “We’re very excited about the possibility of expanding this service line.”

As part of its strategic plan, Estes Park Health is aiming to create a more female-friendly diagnostic imaging center.

As eighty percent of all breast cancers are diagnosed in women over the age of fifty, this is an important health concern for the Estes Valley’s older population. 100% of donations given to Crowns for the Care benefit this cause.

Go to Paint Estes Pink - Estes Park Health (eph.org) to donate today. Deadline for donations is early July.

EPUMC Helped Celebrate Pride In The Park

On Saturday, June 15th, Estes Park United Methodist Church served as a sponsor for the third annual Pride in the Park Saturday Family Friendly Event in the parking lot of the Bull Pin Bowling Alley. Members of the congregation gave out Pride teddy bears made by the EPUMC Friendly Stitchers. They also gave out flags, beads, and information about the church, a Reconciling Congregation.

Pastor Ann Lantz spoke to the group, emphasizing EPUMC’s pledge: “No matter who you are, or where you are on life’s journey, you are welcome at EPUMC.

• Utilizes inclusive language in both written and spoken communication.

• Resists oppression in all forms within the church and the wider world.

• Includes LGBTQ+ persons in leader-

ship roles within the congregation.

A Reconciling Congregation:

• Welcomes, affirms, and celebrates LGBTQ+ individuals.

• Provides a safe place of worship and fellowship.

• Commits to learning and growing in hospitality towards all of God’s children. This movement is about creating a welcoming church environment that invites all people to join in a faith journey toward greater love, understanding, and mutual respect.

Allenspark's

Hilltop Guild Bazaar Is Aug. 3

For more than 70 years, the first Saturday in August has belonged to the Hilltop Guild's annual Bazaar in Allenspark. Mark your calendar for this year's bazaar on Aug. 3 from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. and enjoy homemade arts, food, and crafts.

New this year will be Polaris Malamute Rescue, an organization that promotes the breed and provides homes for malamutes. A volunteer will bring two dogs and lots of information on this mountain breed.

Several art vendors will be on hand and more vendors are welcome to set up. More than 500 people traditionally visit the Bazaar during the course of the day. For more information go to www.hilltopguild.com

Back again will be free haircuts by Hair on Wheels. If your beard is getting bushy and long hair is getting in your eyes, these volunteers will solve all your problems.

If the weather is fine, you will be able to stroll from food trucks to vendors, from the jelly hut to the White Elephant, while enjoying live music. Inside the Kelley House, Guild members will showcase their handicrafts. The loom room will feature woven items from shoelaces to rugs. Several handmade quilts will be for sale. The ever-popular "scrubbies" for kitchen tasks also will be available. Handmade knitted washcloths and embroidered tea towels always sell quickly.

The White Elephant offers a wide selection of gently used household items at bargain prices while the nearby book hut has a wide selection of books and puzzles.

Live music will include Robbie Leavitt of the Reckless Ramblers from approximately 9 a.m. to 11 a.m. and from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. Nancy Maple of Rustic Spirit will provide music of the type you might hear in an Irish pub. From 1 p.m. to 2 p.m. the open mic will feature Sharon Arms and the local all-female band Three Moose Morning plus others who want to sing or play at the festival.

Dandelion jelly will be for sale, too, made by Guild volunteers from dandelions picked in the Kelley House front yard.

"It tastes like mountain sunshine," said Jen Bell, the jelly Queen who organizes a team that makes more than 600 jars of different flavors each year.

Additionally, homemade baked goods will be for sale and several food trucks will be on the premises. There's plenty of parking and admission is free.

The ladies of the Hilltop Guild earmark much of the money made at the Bazaar for local college scholarships.

"This year, more than $11,500 in scholarships went to students in Estes Park and Lyons," said Peg Daley, president of the Guild.

Historic Bunce School and Museum, a one-room schoolhouse, is located within walking distance of the Kelley House and will be open on Aug. 3, too.

"Kids love to see what it was like in the old days," said Mary Rushing, volunteer. The Guild is located at 18729 Highway 7 between Lyons and Allenspark. Bright outdoor flags will mark the location. Join us!

The new Philips EPIQ Elite ultrasound machine will allow EPH’s on-site radiologist to conduct needle biopsies to test for breast cancer, speeding up care for local patients.

Photo by Wendy Rigby/Estes Park Health

As eighty percent of all breast cancers are diagnosed in women over the age of fifty, this is an important health concern for the Estes Valley’s older population.

Estes Park Men’s Golf Association Results For June 17, 2024

week, and to all the week's winners.

EPWGA Results For June 18, 2024

The Estes Park Women’s Golf Association played “Middle Hollow” on Tuesday. The best net scores on holes 6 through 14 were counted. The winners in this game were:

1st place-Carla Spreng-Webb 2nd place -Marianne Casey

Tied for 3rd -Diane Butler, Carolyn Bible and Colleen Logan

The second round of the President’s Cup was also played on Tuesday. The third and final round will have these players squaring off in a match play format next week:

Division 1-Colleen Logan and Marianne Casey

Division 2-Carrie Logan and Pam Vendegna

Division 3-Kay Boyle and Stacey Harding

Division 4-Linda Bowie and Chelsea Sprecht

If you would like more information about the Estes Park Women’s Golf Association, please contact Diane Butler at dbutler04@gmail.com. New members are welcome!

Free Day At The Rec A Great Success

We are pleased to announce that our Free Day event was a tremendous success. Guests enjoyed complimentary access to our facilities and classes throughout the day. Additionally, we offered a special promotion: one-month memberships purchased on June 15th were available at a 50% discount. We provided over 150 hot dogs, chips, and drinks to our guests. Furthermore, Tonya's "Get Connected" table was a popular spot, where even our youngest visitors engaged with programming questions and activities. Estes Valley Recreation and Park District Executive Director commented, “In addition to the tremendous support we had

from the public, I would like to thank all of the staff members who put in extra effort to enable this event to happen. It’s always rewarding to see how dedicated our patrons and staff are to ensuring the success of this great facility.”

The Community Center’s next promotion is BOGO50! Throughout July and August, bring a friend and receive 50% off a one-day pass with the purchase of a full-price pass. Enjoy a wide range of activities including swimming, fitness, recreation, and more. Don’t miss out on this fantastic opportunity to stay active and connected this summer.

Changing The Culture

By: Judi Smith

In the 1950s, when I was a child in the New York, all household trash went into the same “trash basket" including “garbage" (organics), metal, glass (broken or not), cloth (including cleaning and paint rags), paper of all kinds, and even plastic dishes (melamine) and other totally non-repairable things. I should qualify this, nothing useable was tossed, but was given away or donated to church for the needy. We had a “garbage man,” but my father may have, (probably did), burn the majority of what accumulated. As a young child, I was not allowed to touch the trash. It was gone and I did not care where it went.

In the 1960s, in Texas, I became much more aware. The contents of the cat box were buried and the box was filled with fresh dirt from the backyard. Everything else, except a few items like tires, was burned in a 55-gallon drum (also back yard). The drum had a metal lid to control the spread of cinders. The fire burned the food waste and labels off of glass and metal containers which could then be “trashed" with the ashes. (That was my least favorite household chore.) Gone. Good.

My husband's childhood home in Colorado was a bit more advanced. The food waste was separated to a five gallon bucket in the alley (with a tight lid to discourage animals). There, it awaited a visit from the hog-farmer. Cans, glass, and plastic non-burnables were separated and taken to “the dump." Yard waste went the same direction, but each fall, the leaves were collected and taken to the big leaf-burning neighborhood bonfire.

Household plastic was appearing in some light furnishings, picnic baskets, and toys. Both his childhood and mine had adopted the new aluminum framed lawn chairs with plastic webbing: lightweight, collapsible, easy to store, and “tossable.”

In the 1970s, our own household functioned in much the same way, with a couple of upgrades. Plastic became more prevalent. We had (bendable) plastic ice cube trays. New plasticware, probably styrene, filled the picnic basket. (So much lighter!) We accepted the “unburnable" plastic lampshades. Tupperware resolved the refrigerator storage without the little elasticized plastic (quite spillable) lids. The mobile home park (in which we were the only residents), of-

fered a concrete incinerator where we burned trash and we took non-burnables to the (free) local dump. In 1969 our baby bottles were glass, stored and reused in 1972 for a 2nd baby, but, by then, replacements were plastic. (That baby threw bottles when empty!) Of course, plastic sippy cups with secure lids were “absolutely necessary." With that second child, disposable, single use, plastic began to be accepted. We used paper diapers (only when not at home). That plastic burned “fine.”

A the world progressed, more plastic filed our home, but we were still unaware that this could bring disposal problems. Everything went out. Gone. Good.

In the 80s, we returned soda bottles to the Pop Shoppe and collected aluminum cans for the metal recycler, who paid cash. Every little bit helps. By the 90s, we had a recycling bucket next to the trash can, which collected paper, metal and glass recyclables. We began to notice how much plastic headed to the “landfill."

As we traveled throughout the country, in the early part of the 21st century, we became aware that landfills were closing, filled to capacity. It made us aware of the news: barges full of trash, looking for a home, new laws restricting landfill use, ground water contamination, particulates collecting in our air and our oceans and increasingly violent disasters “beyond our control." We also became aware of the efforts to create new forms of plastic: biodegradable, plant-based opposed to petroleum. Efforts to discover new forms of energy which will last into the future. Efforts to remove the trash collected in our oceans and our waterways. Efforts to establish a circular economy, recycling the disposables back into new product. Culture is always changing. Directing the cultural change is possible if we put our minds to it. We can rescue Mother Earth. This must be where our attention and dedication lies. Aware and watching for the little things we can each do. Buying ecologically (packaging as well as product). Supporting those in a position to accomplish more; scientists, government officials, and influential companies. Planning and living smart, for ourselves and the future.

Agree? Disagree? Questions? Comments? RRRcyc@signsandwishes.com

Adventures With The Apostles

By: Bishop Owen Williams

At St. Francis of Assisi Anglican Church in Little Valley, Estes Park, we will continue our Summer Season of the Study of the Book of The Acts of the Apostles on Tuesdays at 2.

Please feel free to join us as we delve into this fascinating book of the Bible. Saint Luke wrote this book as a legacy on how those of the early church evangelized and spread the Gospel of Jesus. “It is the simple truth that if we did not possess the Book of Acts, we would have no information whatever of the early Church.”

-William Barclay

The Book of Acts is not history, in the usual sense. It is more a memorial of events which gives us snapshots or portraits of those who risked all to tell the story of Jesus Christ.

So far, we have followed the Apostles as they were infused with the Holy Ghost and began to spread that Good News to an unbelieving world. We have followed Peter and John as they went to the Temple in Jerusalem to pray and to preach

the Gospel. They were arrested and after a night of imprisonment, were brought before the High Priests to give evidence against themselves. After threatening punishment, Peter and John were released, but with warnings and threats.

You are welcome to join us as we study and discuss the trials, tribulations, and successes of Christianity during the first century. We will gather at

beautiful St. Francis Church on Tuesdays at 2:00 p.m. – and there will be cookies!

To speak to Bishop Williams regarding this discussion group, please call him at (970) 577-0601. St. Francis of Assisi Traditional Anglican Church is located at 3480 St. Francis Way, Estes Park, CO 80517. Website: stfrancisestespark.com. Our Sunday schedule includes Morning Prayer at 9 a.m., Holy Communion Service at 9:30 a.m., with Refreshments & Fellowship time following in Wells Hall.

Turn from Fish Creek Rd. onto Little Valley Road and follow the Signs.

AA & Al-Anon Meetings

AA of Glen Haven

Every Monday night at the Town Hall at 6:30 p.m.

Early Worms

Monday thru Saturday at 7:00 a.m.

(Monday through Saturday hybrid meetings with Zoom #796 839 839

PW:Worms20) at St. Bartholomew Church, 880 MacGregor Ave.

Early Worms Women's Meeting 12 p.m. Mondays

St. Bartholomew, 880 MacGregor Ave. Mixed Nuts Al-Anon Group

We meet Friday from 6:30-7:30 p.m. at St. Bartholomew Church. The meeting is hybrid with Zoom #285 426 3644 PW: serenity.

One Day at a Time

Location: Presbyterian Community Church of the Rockies 1700 Brodie Ave, Estes Park

When: Tues and Thursday @ noon. Please park in back, Meetings are held downstairs in Room 6.

Alcoholics Anonymous Fall River Group, 453 West Elkhorn, Estes Park.

Current Schedule for 2024

Zoom ID 999 829166 for AA Meetings

Monday-12 p.m.-In Person-O, D Monday-7 p.m.-In Person and ZoomO, BB

Tuesday-12 p.m.-Zoom-O, D Wednesday-12 p.m.-In Person and

Zoom-O, D

Wednesday-7 p.m.-In Person and Zoom- O, D

Thursday -12 p.m. Zoom-O, D Friday-12 p.m.-In Person and ZoomO, D

Saturday-12 p.m.-In Person and Zoom-O, D

Sunday -12 p.m.-In Person and ZoomO, D

Last Friday of each month is birthday night; 6 p.m. Potluck, 7 p.m. Speaker.

*** Contribute via VENMO @ EstesCowboy

Other 12 Step Meetings Held at Fall River Group

Thursday-7 p.m.-Narcotics Anonymous “New Horizons” Group O, D-In Person and Zoom 705 555 830

**O=open to all D=discussion

BB=Big Book

Zoom Meetings-Everyday at noon

Zoom #999 829 166 (no password needed).

Monday Zoom Big Book study at 7 p.m. #654 598 884 (no password needed).

Wednesdays at 7 p.m. Zoom #999 829 166

Online AA and NA Meetings at www.intherooms.com

There are 70 AA Meetings and 30 NA Meetings a week.

V. Maxine Sebelik

A longtime resident of Estes Park, V. Maxine Sebelik passed away on Juny 14th, 2024 with her daughter Doris Alberts by her side.

Maxine was the 4th child born to Roy and Eva Warner of Jump River, WI. She was brought into this world by a midwife in Cleveland, WI., now known as Hannibal, on September 14, 1927. Her early education began in a oneroom school in Jump River. The family later moved to Rib Lake, WI., and then to Westboro, WI. Maxine attended and graduated from the Westboro Public School in 1945. In April of 1945 she was recruited by a representative from the U.S. government in Washington D.C. to work as a secretary in the U.S. Army Quartermaster Corp. She joined the Quartermaster band as a clarinetist and had the prestigious honor to play in the band on Pennsylvania Avenue for General Wainwright when he was released from being held as a Japanese prisoner during WWII.

ployed as a clerk in a variety store and later worked as manager for a local laundry business. In 1968 she attended and graduated from nursing school and earned many merit certificates as a result of her dedication to nursing.

During her time in D.C. she worked full time in the QM Corps. and part time at various jobs; switch board operator for a local dairy, inventory registrar for a department store, and a hat and coat checker for a dinner club. She also attended the American Academy of Beauty Culture and graduated as a licensed cosmetologist in 1948. In December of 1948, Maxine became engaged to her high school sweetheart, Milton Sebelik of Westboro, WI. In 1949 Maxine resigned from her job in D.C. and married Milton in Edgar, WI. On May 28, 1949. This marriage produced three daughters who all currently reside in Estes Park, CO. Milton was part owner of the L. Sebelik & Sons Lumber Company in Phillips, WI. In 1959, Milton moved his family to Florida. He was manager of Orange State Lumber Co. In 1968, Milton was accepted into the U.S. Postal Service and the family moved to Bradenton, Fla. Maxine was em-

In 1977, Milton and Maxine visited friends in Estes Park, CO. They loved the area, and after Milton’s retirement from the post office they moved to the cabin they had bought in Estes Park in 1977. They built a new home on the property in 1992. In 2012, they moved to a condominium they had purchased in Estes Park. Milton passed away in October of 2015. He and Maxine had been married for 66 & ½ years. In June of 2017, Maxine sold the condominium and moved to the Estes Park Good Samaritan Village. Maxine loved her family and home in Estes Park. She was especially fond of the animals and the beautiful mountains. Milton and Maxine travelled extensively in the United States, Alaska, and Canada. In 1992, Maxine and two daughters travelled by cruise ship to Hong Kong and China. Highlights of that trip included a walk on a portion of the Great Wall of China, dinner in a large floating restaurant, visiting a school and a private home and a silk factory.

Maxine was preceded in death by her husband Milton, her parents, and two brothers and a sister. She is survived by three daughters, a son-in-law, five grandchildren, and four great grandchildren. She was a member of the Stanley Historical Society of Stanley WI. & a lifetime member of the Ladies Auxiliary to the VFW Post 7817 of Westboro, WI.

Funeral services for Maxine will be private and officiated by s Funeral Service of Estes Park. Interment will be at Estes Park Memorial Gardens where she will share a Unity Urn with her husband, Milton and both will rest together in peace for eternity.

Gerald Paul Darmafall

Gerald Paul Darmafall 78, of Estes Park, CO passed peacefully into heaven on June 7th, 2024 at his home with family members present.

Jerry was born on February 20, 1946 to Peter and Monica Darmafall in Detroit MI. He was preceded in death by his mother and father.

Gerald is survived and very much loved, by his wife of 52 years Rebecca Darmafall, four children; Kristine, David,

Brian and Kevin, and nine grandchildren, his brother Larry, and his sister Catherine. A memorial service will be held at Park Fellowship Church in Estes Park on the 29th of June at 2:30 p.m. In lieu of flowers, Park Fellowship Church will accept donations to Gerald's favorite charity, Uganda's Children's School. Please address all donations to the church in Jerry's name.

HAIRSTYLIST WANTED

Happy Well Established Shop

Felxible Hours! 970-231-3997

Maintenance Tech

FT Seasonal, PT Off-Season

Possible $19 - $20/Hr 1885 Sketch Box Ln #7 Estes Park

Basic carpentry, plumbing, electrical, drywall and painting Work orders, troubleshoot, vendor comm, snow shoveling, mowing Computer skills, lift 50+ lbs, English, Spanish a plus, valid DL Weekends, holidays, rotating on call a must

Please send resume and cover letter to: dawn@skyrun.com

Full-time, Benefited - Recreation Center.

As a Lead, you will perform a wide variety of guest services functions: routine and general cashier duties, office support, customer service, room rentals, answer questions from the public about all district facilities, assist in maintaining a pleasant and clean environment at the Recreation Center. In addition, this lead position will assist in training other front desk staff. Benefits include medical, dental, vision, life insurance, LTD and retirement benefits in addition to a competitive wage and employee discounts.

Front Desk at the Recreation Center.

This part time position will perform a variety of guest services functions to include general cashier duties, customer service and maintaining a pleasant and clean environment.

Cubz Den Attendant

This part time position will supervise a program for children between the ages of 1-8 years old in our Cubz Den play area at the Recreation Center. Activities include, supervising the indoor play structure, toy area and play stations as well as, leading art projects, and reading to the children. The program runs in the afternoon.

Competitive pay and a free membership to the Recreation Center.

Apply on-line: evrpd.com

New restaurant opening in the Allenspark area; The Grill Guy… A Burger Bar & more… Hiring for back and front of the house. Great food in an amazing environment. Please call 720.639.0061 to learn more.

Sky Run RMNP is hiring a FT or PT Accounting Clerk. Assist Accounting Manager with various accounting and Owner Statement processes. Weekday hours available, $19 - $20 per hour. We look forward to hearing from you.

Apply on line with resume https://app.joinhomebase.com/loc/ skyrun-rm/job/accounting-clerk

Ho u sekeepi ng – staff

Responsible for having assigned cabins & lodge rooms cleaned by check-in time at YMCA of the Rockies, a camp, conference & family retreat center located outside Rocky Mountain National Park. Flexible work schedules are available for those living offgrounds. If living on-grounds, the position is 40 hours/week with minimum 6-week work agreement if able to stay for the month of July. Work agreements are available up to 8 months with opportunity for growth into yearround employment. This position pays $14.42/hour and the Rocky Mountain Living Package is available for those interested in working 40 hours/week.

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

Now Hiring CDL Drivers

Year round Part-time CDL drivers with passenger endorsment starting at $29.00 an hour plus tips.

Apply within at: Estes Park Shuttle 551 South Saint Vrain Ave

Inn

Now hiring: Front Desk Agent

Flexible Hours, Full time $18/hr - $22/hr DOE

Must be non-smoker.

Apply in person: 1260 Big Thompson Ave. or email resume: info@estesresort.com

NOW HIRING!

Warehouse & Warehouse-Driver

Rocky Mountain Conservancy Retail Warehouse $20-20.50/hr Seasonal: May-October Full-time or Part-time Weekends & some holidays required in Rocky Mountain National Park Seeking team players to work at

Silver Saddle

YMCa of tHe RoCkies

Estes Valley Recreation and Park District is an Equal Opportunity Employer.

Front Desk Lead

80511

ReseRvatio n s a g e n t

This position is responsible for making reservations for individuals and families at YMCA of the Rockies, a camp, conference, and retreat center located outside Rocky Mountain National Park. The position is on-site, 40 hours/week, and 14.42/hour. This is a seasonal position with a work agreement up to 8 months with the opportunity for possible growth into year-round employment at YMCA of the Rockies. All seasonal positions at YMCA of the Rockies offer the opportunity to opt-in to the Rocky Mountain Living Package which includes housing in dormitory style rooms, 3 meals per day, 7 days per week, access to all YMCA of the Rockies facilities and many more employee perks. Visit jobs.ymcarockies.org/seasonal for more information.

j o b s .ymc a r o ck ies o rg

Rams Horn Village Resort has a year round, part time position available in our Activities/Hospitality Department: $18-20/hour. Responsibilities include great customer service, weekly shopping, food prep, and assisting with weekend events for guests. Approx 8 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

Saturday Yard Work

4-6 hrs. $25/hr. Raking needles and pinecones, trimming shrubs, minor landscaping. Call 970-689-3570 and leave message.

JOIN OUR TEAM!

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

Regular Full-time

Broadband Operations Manager

Civil Engineer I-II

Emergency Services Dispatcher I-III

Enterprise Resource Planning (ERP) Staff Accountant

Apply in person. 3450 Fall River Rd. Trailhead Restaurant

Fiber Technician

Journey Lineworker

Mechanic I-III

Police Officer I - III

Is looking for Server Housing available

Silver Saddle Inn

Now hiring: Breakfast Attendant Housekeepers

Apply in person: 1260 Big Thompson Ave. or email resume: info@estesresort.com

Rocky Mountain Transit Management Now hiring and training CDL Class B with passenger endorsement. Seasonal through October. $30.36/hr Call (970) 577-7477 for inquires

Restorative Justice Program Coordinator Street Equipment Specialist I-II

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

Perform a variety of functions to accomplish the distribution of mail and packages. Vehicle and gas supplied. Must be able to lift up to 70lbs. Competitive pay.

We’re hiring for the following positions starting at $22.61/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

To apply visit www.albertsonscompanies.com select Careers then search for Estes Park, CO to locate jobs After your application has been completed, please call our hiring manager Ann at 970.586.4447.

sPeCia l ist This is a full-time, year-round position at YMCA of the Rockies –Estes Park Center that is responsible for the maintenance and repair of all aspects of staff housing with a special emphasis on Glacier Lodge, the year-round staff housing neighborhood in Estes Park. A minimum of two years’ experience in a facility maintenance position and must possess a valid, USA state issued driver's license. $21 - $23/hour includes Medical benefits, YMCA of the Rockies family membership, generous PTO/vacation, participation in YMCA Retirement Fund, ski passes, discounted childcare, and employee discounts.

Experience

NOW HIRING!

Retail Clerks

Seeking team players to work at

Rocky Mountain Conservancy Nature Stores

Full-time or Part-time Weekends & some holidays required in Estes Park Visitor Center & Rocky Mountain National Park

$20-20.50/hr

Seasonal: May-October

PARK SCHOOL DISTRICT R-3

Estes Park School District R-3 is accepting applications for one full-time, year-round head custodian, and one full-time, year-round custodian. Salary range is $17.94 to $22.77 per hour depending on experience, with single benefits that include health, dental, vision and retirement plan. The successful candidate must be able to pass a drug test, background check, and physical demands/lift test. Applicants must be at least 18 years of age, eligible to work in the U.S., and possess a high school diploma or GED.

Apply online at www.applitrack.com/estesschools/onlineapp Only online applications accepted. Position open until filled. Contact Eric Adams with questions: 970-586-5321 ext. 3468.

ESTES PARK SCHOOL DISTRICT R-3 IS AN EQUAL OPPORTUNITY EMPLOYER

Job Opportunity: Carpenter

Glacier Creek Construction is looking for an experienced, reliable carpenter to assist in all phases of commercial and residential projects. 5-10 years hands on experience in remodels and new construction as a team leader. Must have own vehicle and tools. Please call (970)586-1685 and/ or email your resume and contact information to candace@glaciercreekinc.com. We look forward to hearing from you!

Homes

3 bedroom, 2 bathroom, 1 car garage. Nice yard/location, recently updated. No smoking, no pets. 2900.00 per month. 1 yr lease. Email for more information. Coloradohighlandsrealty @gmail.com. 303 956 7153

Commercial Rentals

Office Space for Rent 1377 Sq. Ft., Conference Room, 3 Private Offices, High Traffic Area with Great Exposure, Open Lobby Area, Printer Room. 351 Moraine Ave. Suite B 970-227-4865 nathan@kinleybuilt.com

Sewing/Alterations

Remixed Custom Sewing Services. NEW LOCATION! Small Furniture, Restoration, Cushions and Industrial Repair. Call for appointment 970-492-5446

Cleaning

Residential & Commercial. Estes Park Resident for over 12 years. Experienced & Licensed! Call or Text 970-443-1283

Home Repair/Service

Drywall & Painting R&J Residential, Commercial Exterior & Interior Painting 719-419-1366, drywallpaintingrj@gmail.com

Employment Opportunity with Estes Park Housing Authority

Are you looking to put your various maintenance skills to work in a long-term career opportunity? If so, Estes Park Housing Authority invites you to apply to our fast-paced and growing organization. This Maintenance Technician role requires strong and effective maintenance skills and abilities to manage the needs and improvements of our properties.

Hiring range is $45,000 - $55,000 for this full-time position and includes health, dental, vision, and PERA retirement benefits.

Knowledge of routine and preventative maintenance for buildings, systems (plumbing, electrical, HVAC), appliance, landscaping, and equipment. Construction trade skills are necessary to perform work and quality desired.

Applications and full job description available at the EPHA office or on our website. EstesHousing.Org 363 E Elkhorn Ave Suite 101 Estes Park, CO 80517 Or call 970-591-2535 for additional information

A completed EPHA Employment Application MUST be submitted for consideration of employment. Resumes are accepted and encouraged. Position open until June 28, 2024.

The Estes Park Housing Authority is an equal opportunity employer.

Airport Drivers • Tour Drivers

Non CDL Drivers

$18-20 an hour Plus tips, Fulltime/Partime

$4/hr shift differential pay for morning and nights.

Tour Guides/drivers for small groups.

Apply within at: Estes Park Shuttle 551 South Saint Vrain Ave

Piano Tuning

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

HOUSEHOLD

Coolaroo exterior roller shades. 6 x 8, walnut. cordless with wand. 858-735-5286

MISCELLANEOUS

FOR SALE: GRINNELL “TOM THUMB” PIANO. IDEAL FOR YOUNG MUSICIANS. $300. INC DELIVERY & TUNING. 303-823-6699.

Power/hand/yard tools.

dishes, wall

golf stuff, free items. June, 21 & 22, 9am-2pm. 1641 Avalon Dr, Estes

Large Garage Sale June 28 & 29 from 9-4 and

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

Estate Sale Fri 8-1, Sat 9-3

Follow Judi’s Signs to: 831 Riverside.

Accordion, Spoon Collection, Numerous Vintage Items, Woodley Cabinet, Small Tables, Loveseat & Matching Chair, Glassware, Small Shelving, Linens, MCM Cabinet, Queen Bed, Lawn Furniture, Vintage Toys, Holiday Decorum, Craft Items, Framed Art, Lawn Mower, Snow Blower, Tools, Craftsman Table Saw, Stationary Band Saw, Router Table, BBQ Grill, Ladders, Wheel Barrel, Wood, Shelving, Leaf Blower, and so Much MORE!