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Thanks to the Estes Park News for the opportunity to offer my thoughts.
I was asked, after a recent column in which I referenced my advocacy for Estes, “But what do you actually do? What actions do you take?”
Well, each mayor designs much of their own path. I try to provide service to anyone and everyone while maintaining human and humane relationships in every interaction. It’s important to understand, though, that the mayor in our Mayor/Council form of government does not run operations. The mayor doesn’t give orders to the Town staff (though the Town Administrator and Town Attorney do report to the Board of Trustees). I bring my philosophy and opinions to the fore and help where I can within the legal boundaries of the position. If you’d like to see the Governance Policies of the Town of Estes Park, including the lengthy Mayor’s Responsibilities (item 1.4 in that collection), let me know, I’ll send it along.
I interact with the media locally and statewide, providing insight into various items proactively and reactively. They want the mayor’s opinion on certain topics, and they ask for messages to their listeners/readers who might choose to travel to Estes.
I listen to residents, merchants, guests, contractors, anyone, on any topic and then decide whether there are useful actions that I can take (within proper legal limits) to help with the issue. I might get asked about the Loop or other townwide topics, or I might get asked about individual issues. In some cases, after studying the issue, I help the individual or group get in touch with the right re-
source. In some cases, I offer my opinion on topics to Town administration. I think it’s fair to say that the mayor’s opinion (as well as that of the other trustees) is taken seriously into consideration when so offered.
In some cases, there’s no definitive action that I can take, but I try to give full explanation of the reasons when I say “no.”
“Can the mayor assist us with that?” Often, I can. I’ve connected citizens with the state insurance board. I’ve helped individual shop-owners apply for construction impact relief funds. I facilitate communication for anyone who I can help. I’ve been contacted about short-term rental (STR) licenses and regulations, Homeowners Association (HOA) challenges (including insurance challenges), personnel/personal issues, zoning opinions, a broad swath of potential use of AI for the Town, streets and accessibility, dysfunctional stoplights, consideration of sales tax changes, Cinco de Mayo, the Duck Race, Paint Estes Pink, solar panel regulations, various Estes events, diversity resources, proposed projects, natural foods, sales tax modifications, J-1 workers, and much more. And this is just ten weeks into my term.
I prepare for the twice-a-month Town board meetings and run those meetings. Preparation is lengthy: a lot of reading and research to understand the issues and to be ready to lead the board in discussion and efficiently manage the meetings. And I still have work to do to make those meetings properly efficient.
I express my own views: If you’ve watched Board meetings and read my
other articles, you know my opinions on many items. It’s important for me to express publicly my preferred directions and outcomes, though when it comes time for the board to decide, I’m just one of seven votes.
I meet at least weekly with the Town Administrator. I meet with other Town directors, managers, and employees to gain information about issues so that I can effectively deal with issues. I sign the various documents on which the board has voted. I have coffee with the various trustees (only one at a time, of course, to respect open meetings regulations), not to poll for votes, but to understand the different views of the issues better.
I network with other municipalities, mayors, Larimer County, the State, and other political entities, to discover new approaches to solutions for our problems. I support legislation that helps Estes Park, including contacting our legislative representatives to advocate (there’s that word again) the direction I’d like to see those bills go. I sit on the Platte River Power Authority (PRPA) board. I am a member of the Larimer County Behavioral Health Policy Council.
There are numerous ceremonial or event-driven requests for my presence, such as Disabled American Veterans, schools, tramway, Pride, Rooftop Rodeo, Scottish-Irish Festival, Open World Delegation, Woman’s Club, League of Women Voters, and many more. I’ll make speeches and issue proclamations when asked. These latter duties are fun and a rewarding part of the job.
I’ve spent a LOT of time getting educated these first months: in orientations, by touring and learning our facilities, visiting other partner sites, reading Town and other relevant documents, and asking a lot of questions.
All of this is done while balancing the need to maintain the beauty of Estes with the need to evolve the Town as appropriate to feed our future.
Did that help answer the question? Onward. I hope you had a great Independence Day and a wonderful summer and rest of 2024.
If you have questions or comments, you can also contact me at ghall@estes.org, through my phone at Town Hall at 970577-3706, or by requesting a meeting at https://dms.estes.org/Forms/mayormeetingrequest.
Town Now Accepting Applications For 2025 Community Initiative Funding
The Town of Estes Park appropriates funds to support local organizations that help meet the needs of Estes Valley residents, subject to Town Board goals and availability of funds. Included in this program are Community Initiative Funds, for which the Town is currently accepting applications from organizations serving the Estes Valley.
pleted applications should be emailed to Management Analyst Suzanna Simpson at ssimpson@estes.org.
To apply for 2025 funding, organizations must complete and submit a Community Initiative Funding Application and supporting documents by 5 p.m. Friday, August 30, 2024. Applications are available online at www.estes.org/communityfunding under the “Community Initiative Funding” dropdown. Com-
The Town Board will prioritize funding requests at a budget study session in October. Funding is ultimately subject to Town Board approval of its budget in November. Organizations receiving funds for 2025 will be required to submit a final project report, structured as an educational news article, by May 31, 2025.
For more information on the Town of Estes Park’s funding for outside entities, please visit www.estes.org/communityfunding or contact Suzanna Simpson at 970-577-3700 or ssimpson@estes.org.
Applications Available For Transportation Advisory Board
Applications are currently being accepted for two volunteer positions on the Transportation Advisory Board. To learn more about the board and to view meeting minutes, projects, and associated links, please visit
The charge(s) are merely an accusation and the defendant is presumed innocent until and unless proven guilty.
On 7/4/2024 at 1:10 a.m. police were
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 30th, 2024, the Estes Valley Fire Protection District (EVFPD) responded to 15 calls for service. This included:
• Alarm Activation: 5
www.estes.org/boardsandmeetings.
To apply, submit a resume and cover letter along with the Town’s volunteer application, located at www.estes.org/volunteering, no later than 5 p.m. Friday, July 12.
called to the 1200 block of Brook Drive on a report of a barking dog. On scene, police contacted a 48 year old Estes Park female and issued her a citation for disturbance of a neighborhood, prohibited.
• Assist: 2
• Possible Illegal Burn: 1
• Motor Vehicle Accident (MVA): 1
• Elevator Rescue: 1
• Dumpster Fire: 1
• Possible Structure Fire- unfounded: 1
• Smoke Investigation: 2
• Vehicle Fire: 1
Estes Valley Fire www.estesvalleyfire.org
Wild Basin Road Will Be Closed To All Uses For Road Maintenance Tues., July 23 Through Fri., July 26
Beginning Tuesday, July 23, through Friday, July 26, the Wild Basin Road in Rocky Mountain National Park will be closed to all uses, including vehicles, bicycles and pedestrians for road maintenance. This closure will occur at the Wild Basin Entrance Station and will include the entire two-mile section of the road to the Wild Basin Trailhead. The park’s roads crew will be spreading gravel and grading this narrow road to address ruts, potholes and help with
drainage. Due to the road being closed to all uses from July 23 through July 26, visitors should avoid this area of Rocky Mountain National Park during this time.
The trailhead parking area for the Sandbeach Lake Trail will not be impacted by this closure.
For further information about Rocky Mountain National Park, please visit www.nps.gov/romo or call the park’s Information Office at (970) 586-1206.
Photo courtesy of RMNP
2024 Collector Holiday Ornament Available For Purchase
Since 1986, the Town of Estes Park employees' Helping Hands Committee has created commemorative annual holiday ornaments for purchase by the public. The proceeds from ornament sales provide high school senior scholarships and assistance to individuals in need through Crossroads Ministry. The 2024 ornament image is of the iconic, reopened Estes Park Tram.
2024 ornaments are available for $15 each, and previous years are available for $5.00-$10. View and order at estes.org/Forms/HolidayOrnaments. Ornaments are also available at the Finance Department in Town Hall, 170 MacGre-
gor Ave. and at Peak Hallmark in Upper Stanley Village, 459 E. Wonderview Ave. #4.
Shipping fees for one or two ornaments is $7.50, and $14 for three or four ornaments. For orders of five or more, please contact Kim by emailing kimmceachern@estes.org or 970-5773567. Payment with a credit card is an option; however, additional fees will apply.
For more information, please contact Kim at kimmceachern@estes.org or 970-577-3567. The 2024 ornament may be viewed online by visiting www.estes.org/helpinghandsornament.
A Big Thank You
We'd like to send a big heartfelt thank you to all the friends and family who came by and helped celebrate our moms life.
What a perfect day to honor her. There was so much love, laughter, hugs, tears and so many happy stories. We know she touched so many lives and it was very evident that day. We have no doubt that
she would have loved every second of it because she loved each one of you as family.
Her legacy will live on and she will never be forgotten. We appreciate each and every one of you!
Sincerely, Diane Rambeau’s family
Stanley Home Museum and Education Center Vino on the Veranda “Portrayals of Stanley-Era Children”
Date: Friday, July 19, 2024
Come join us for an enthralling evening, listening to portrayals of the neighborhood children as they tell stories of time spent at the Stanley home with F.O. and Flora. Hear about the fun they had, what they did and what they learned. But first enjoy some Snowy Peaks wine and delicious hors d’oeuvres while taking in the magnificent views from the lovely veranda.
Time: Transportation from Estes Park Visitor Center to the museum begins at 5:30 PM performance starts at 6:00
Admission: Individuals ($35 ea.)
Wine sponsored by Snowy Peaks Winery Tickets at stanleyhome.org events
Estes Recycles Day Fees Low This Year Thanks To Community Support And Grant Funding
The League of Women Voters Community Recycling Committee will host its annual Estes Recycles Day on Saturday, August 10, from 9 a.m. to noon at the Events Complex Main Parking. The event is open to residents and small businesses.
The three main recycling stations are Shredding (staples ok; Ro tary scholarship donations encouraged and appreciated), Electronics and Scrap Metal.
At Electronics, computers and monitors will be accepted for $5; TVs for $10-$20, depending on size; and smoke detectors for $5. Large electronics will be limited to five per vehicle.
Most smaller electronic items such as phones, cameras, blenders, hair dryers will be accepted for recycling without charge.
Recycling at Scrap Metal includes microwaves (no glass plate). Metal items must be 50% metal or more by weight and contain no refrigerants. Large items will be limited to five per vehicle.
CFL light bulbs, and bike tires and tubes are also accepted.
“FREE”?
Then do NOT check out our personal* or small business** checking accounts!
*No monthly service charge with e-statements. ** No monthly service charge for up to 150 items, with e-statements.
Fees are very low this year because of generous grants from Village Thrift Shop, Premier Members Credit Union of Estes Park and Estes Valley Sunrise Rotary Club. The Town of Estes Park has also awarded the League of Women Voters a Community Initiative Grant to further offset the significant costs associated with running this popular event.
Thanks to Kind Coffee for donating refreshments to keep our volunteers energized and to Superior Trash Company for donating the use of three dumpsters.
We always need volunteers! If you would like to help at the event, please email Yvonne at EstesRecyclesDayvolunteer@gmail.com.
If you have questions about items or quantities accepted, please email estesrecycles@lwv-estespark.org in advance of the event.
Grateful thanks to all our grantors and collaborative partners for helping us all recycle responsibly.
Estes Park Museum Program To Feature Music Of Summer Resident And Composer Arne Oldberg
On Saturday, July 27 at 4 p.m. join the Estes Park Museum and pianist Jennifer Muñiz in exploring the works of American composer and Estes Park summer resident Arne Oldberg. One of several perseverant cultural figures in Chicago at the turn of the 19th century, Oldberg was determined to redefine the U.S. artistic identity. He can be described as a “Brahms in our backyard.” The musicians from this time have been researched separately, such as John Alden Carpenter and Rudolf Ganz, and the musical oddities of the Chicago World’s Fair in 1893, but this recital explores the music from a community of composers that formed a larger “Chicago School,” similar in the way that musicologists identify a “Second New England School” in Boston around this time. The concert program, in addition to the music of Oldberg, includes solo piano pieces by John Alden Carpenter, Rudolf Ganz, and Florence Price; as well as Howard Hanson, who was the director at the Eastman School of Music for forty years. Estes Park was the summer composing location of Oldberg, allowing an exciting venue for exploring his contributions to music history, along with a glimpse of the wider musical milieu in Gilded Age Chicago (1880s and 1890s) and its impact on later generations.
Pianist Jennifer Muñiz, D.M.A., completed her Doctor of Musical Arts and Master of Music degrees from Manhattan School of Music with Philip Kawin; and her Bachelor of Music as a student of Lydia Artymiw at the University of Minnesota Twin Cities. Muñiz, Associate Professor of Music at IU South Bend, joined the full-time faculty in 2013, and began serving as Chair of the Music Department in 2020. She has performed in Spain, Italy, Mexico, and the United States.
Muñiz has garnered numerous honors since her concerto debut at age eleven, including her New York solo debut at Carnegie’s Weill Recital Hall, performances at the United Nations, Steinway Hall, and the Polish Embassy in Chicago, and recitals at the Auditorio Principe Felipe in Oviedo, Spain. Muñiz has been published in Clavier Companion and American Music Teacher.
In 2018, Muñiz released a solo piano CD (Centaur Records), An American Romantic: Piano Music of Arne Oldberg (18741962); and a chamber music CD (Afinat Records): Cantos del Emigrante and More Songs for Tenor and Piano by Jorge Muñiz.
Jennifer Muñiz performs as a solo and collaborative pianist, and is the pianist for Ensemble CONCEPT/21, a new music ensemble that has performed at venues such as the Chicago Latino Music Festival.
Muñiz has also been performing with the South Bend Symphony Orchestra as an orchestral pianist since 2022.
Please note that due to music set-up and expected attendance, this program will take place at the Community Church of the Rockies, 1700 Brodie Ave., Estes Park. With generous support from the Estes Park Museum Friends &Foundation, Inc., program admission is free for Museum Members and a low price of $5 for non-members. Admission will be collected at the door.
The mission of the Estes Park Museum is to conduct activities that preserve, share, and respect the unique history of Estes Park. For more information, call the Estes Park Museum at 970-586-6256 or visit the Museum's website.
Congratulations To Steve Silverman For Winning This Month’s Estes Valley Photo Club Contest!
Here is what Steve said about the photograph: “I was lucky enough to be at Sheep Lakes when a rainbow appeared. What made it even more special, was that the arch encompassed a place we love in RMNP. The rainbow in the sky arched over Rainbow Curve.”
Join the Estes Valley Photo Club for your chance to have your photograph appear in an issue of the EP News!
Please find us on Facebook under Groups and then select Estes Valley Photo Club. You do not need to be a resident of the Estes Valley to join. We welcome all members!
All members have the opportunity to enter our monthly photo contest. We are now accepting submissions for the July Photo Contest.
Here are the rules:
You must use the hashtag #estesvalleyphotoclubcontest
Each member can enter two photographs
The photographs must be taken in Colorado. Please state general location. DO NOT include specific locations
You may enter any subject
No watermarks or logos. Good luck!
As boring as it may seem to some, weather is one of the more fascinating small-talk topics, in my fair-and-partlysunny opinion. Think about it: conversations about rain, hail, sleet and snow—not to mention wind!—sure beat prattle about our aches and pains. Those “organ recitals” get rather banal.
If the subject of weather were not worthy of our attention, we wouldn’t bring it up. But we do, daily, because the weather affects every one of us. It determines how we dress, if we’ll turn on the oven or just have salad for dinner, where we’ll hike, when we’ll walk the dog, if we’ll make our connecting flight, if we should wash the car (a guarantee that it will rain), and if we’ll end up with hail dimples on the surface of that car.
Last week’s Thunker was about weather predictions. Somehow, readers turned it into a matter of math. I was showered with a torrent of percent signs. It was a disaster!
Bobbie H. tried to help me understand how meteorologists determine the likelihood of a weather event:
“I used to teach probability, and I read with interest your column about a 30% probability of rain. I find probability a good tool for planning things in my life, because it gives me a reasonable way to predict what might happen.
“As for a 30% chance of rain: if the general area weather pattern were the same for 100 days, then on 30 of those days it would probably rain, and on 70 of those days it probably would not. Just because it rained hard on the day you witnessed, it did not change the probability to 100%. It just meant that your day was in the 30 possible scenarios.”
Bobbie continued: “Another way to look at it: if you flip a coin 100 times, the prediction is that about 50 times you would get heads and 50 times you would get tails. Just because the first flip is heads does not mean the probability changes to 100% and that you will get heads the next 99 times.”
I didn’t doubt Bobbie’s explanation at all. Nonetheless, it only confused me more, which is not hard to do.
I think if there is a 100 percent chance of rain, it will definitely rain, no ifs or buts. A 50 percent chance means maybe it will, maybe it won’t. A 30 percent likelihood means rain is doubtful, and a 10 percent probability means we are safe leaving the umbrella at home.
Mine is a completely different approach than the one Bobbie described. I see the forecast as predicting the next day, not the next 100 days. If the meteorologist said, “Of the next 100 days, 30 of them will have rain,” that doesn’t help me decide if I can safely plan a picnic tomorrow. I asked
her if that was the difference between her explanation and mine. She replied:
“Sorry to make it even more confusing, but the 100 days are hypothetical. Think of it as Groundhog Day If under the same circumstances (weather patterns), you wanted to predict what would happen tomorrow, then 30 possibilities include rain and 70 possibilities do not include rain.”
Clear as fog. This is why Bobbie taught probabilities and I go outside and look up to get a weather report.
Hiking friend Dave M. referred to the National Weather Service (NWS) to try to clarify how weather predications are made. After a lengthy explanation about probabilities (completely different from Bobbie’s), we got to this:
“The point probability of precipitation is predetermined and arrived at by the forecaster by multiplying two factors: Forecaster certainty that precipitations will form or move into the area X Areal coverage of precipitation that is expected (and then moving the decimal point two places to the left).
Using this, here are two examples giving the same statistical result:
1) If the forecaster was 80% certain that rain would develop but only expected to cover 50% of the forecast area, then the forecast would read “a 40% chance of rain” for any given location.
2) If the forecaster expected a widespread area of precipitation with 100% coverage to approach, but s/he was only 40% certain that it would reach the forecast area, this would, as well, result in a 40% chance of rain at any given location in the forecast area.”
Dave summarized: “I gave up on weather apps a long time ago. As far as I can tell, they all over-dramatize the weather to induce viewership. I figure NWS is probably the underlying source of data for all of them (except for stuff like Weather Underground, which gets data from private collection stations), so I just look at NWS, flawed though it may be.”
In case you’re wondering, Dave has gotten caught in his fair share of thunderstorms, just like the rest of us.
Craig L., a retired radio announcer, said, “Some of us still rely on good old-fashioned, backbone of America, free, overthe-air radio for our weather forecasts.”
There is one thing we know for sure: 100 percent of the time, we will have some kind of weather. Guaranteed.
You may let The Thunker know what you think at her e-mail address, donoholdt@gmail.com.
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 purchase 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 Fine Arts Guild of the Rockies will present an evening of three one act plays, July 19 & 20 at 7 p.m. and July 21 at 2 p.m. at the Estes Park High School. The Back Row by Joey A. Chavez set in a movie theater with an aging former movie star and a young movie house manager. Starring Kathy Littlejohn and Henry Thomas directed by Jenn Bass. Enemies by Neith Boyce and Hutchins Hapgood, a married couple struggling to find meaning in their marriage. Starring Greg Lanning and Jenn Bass, directed by Lars Sage While The Auto Waits by O. Henry and adapted for the stage by Walter Wykes a story about two people pretending to be someone they are not. Starring Samantha Workman, Douglas
Patarroyo, Denise Shank and Rik Forschmiedt, directed by Lars Sage. Each play has delightful twists and turns and pack a punch in a short amount of time. We hope you will join us!
Chasing A Dream For
Colorado: Enos Mills In A Living History Performance
CHAIN STATION
Local actor-storyteller Kurtis Kelly will remember the life and legacy of Enos Mills through a living-history performance on Monday, July 15 at 7 p.m. The program takes place at the Maude Jellison Library at the YMCA of the Rockies, as part of this summer’s program series for all ages.
A sickly boy not expected to live to adulthood, Enos Mills (1870-1922) seemed a most unlikely candidate to grow into a legendary mountaineer. Yet his 1884 arrival in Colorado was the start of an abiding reverence for nature. Five years later, a chance meeting with John Muir inspired him to wonder: could he do for the Rocky Mountains what Muir did for Yosemite?
With unwavering determination and against many odds, Mills championed the six-year campaign to create a wilderness sanctuary in Colorado’s northern mountains. Those efforts fulfilled what he called his life’s “greatest dream” upon the establishment of Rocky Mountain National Park.
The performance recounts major episodes from Mills’ remarkable career that included being an innkeeper, a naturalist, a prolific writer, a coast-to-coast lecturer, and innovator in the field of guided nature interpretation, leading 257 guided trips to the summit of Longs Peak. The story evokes a time when grizzlies still roamed Colorado and when a national park was an elusive vision.
As a history re-enactor, Kurtis Kelly has had the opportunity to bring the Enos Mills story to audiences throughout the Front Range. He regularly portrays historic characters for audiences of all ages, from grade schools to retirement communities.
The July 15 event is free and open to everyone, and no registration is required. The program will take place outdoors, weather permitting, but will move indoors if necessary.
On July 16 at 7 p.m., Estes Park residents and Bear Lake volunteers Jim & Carol Nussbaumer will present a program about their other volunteer love, Malawi, Africa. The program will be held in the Fellowship Hall of the Presbyterian Community Church (1700 Brodie Ave. – across from the high school football field).
Beginning in 1997, the Nussbaumers have spent several weeks each fall working in Malawi with Marion Medical
PEO Summer Friendship Breakfasts
Program On Malawi, Africa July 16 By The Nussbaumers
The Estes Park PEO Group invites any visiting or interested PEO to join us for a Friendship Breakfast at the Ember Restaurant at the Estes Park Resort on Lake Estes. The summer dates are: July 12, August 9, and September 13, 2024 at 9:00 a.m. Just show up and join us.
Mission. Jim is with the Shallow Wells program, which installs wells in very remote villages that do not have a source of protected water.
Carol volunteers at the Embangweni Schools for the Deaf, doing speech therapy, teaching English and leading teacher workshops.
The evening will also include a short safari to South Luangwa National Park in Zambia and is open to any and all!
Rocky Mountain Conservancy’s Rocky Terraces Workforce Housing Welcomes First Residents
The Rocky Mountain Conservancy, with the longstanding and generous support of donors, has completed construction of a new workforce housing complex in Estes Park and recently welcomed the first residents. Rocky Mountain National Park leadership and the Conservancy’s board of directors and executive director marked the milestone with a ribbon cutting on June 28th. The two duplexes bordering Rocky Mountain National Park on Highway 66 provide 16 private bedrooms for park
and Conservancy staff, researchers, and fellows. The new housing, which cost about $2.85 million to build and furnish, is named “Rocky Terraces” after rustic guest cabins previously located on the property.
"Affordable housing options for park staff is a top priority for me. We can't take care of this amazing national park without our staff. This critical workforce housing project, funded by Rocky Mountain Conservancy, helps chip away at this need. We are grateful for the
Conservancy's ongoing support as we tackle housing challenges together," said Gary Ingram, park superintendent. The shortage of affordable housing in the Estes Valley has also affected the Conservancy’s ability to hire and retain staff as well as research and education fellows.
“Through the Rocky Terraces project, the Rocky Mountain Conservancy has taken the lead in confronting an issue facing every national park gateway community in the west,” said Conservancy Board President Walt Borneman. “The Conservancy recognized a need, and through the generosity of several large donors and the support of many of our other donors and members, we brought this vision to fruition.”
“Attracting the best and brightest talent
to conduct research and educational programs in the park is core to the mission of the Rocky Mountain Conservancy,” added Charles Cofas, Conservancy board member and chairman of the facilities committee. “Constructing this housing is the single largest project ever undertaken by the Conservancy and will enhance the Conservancy’s direct support to the park.”
Kathryn Conley, a field coordinator for the Conservancy’s Conservation Corps, was one of the first residents, moving into a private bedroom just hours after Larimer County issued the certificate of occupancy. “I’ve spent plenty of time living in tents and out of the back of my Subaru, so I was happily surprised by the quality and convenience of the units,” Conley said. She also appreciates being able to take walks or trail runs alongside the nearby Big Thompson River.
Housemate and Conservation Corps crew leader Emily Dewing is equally enthusiastic and says seeing the units for the first time was “the shock of a lifetime.”
“I’ve never lived in such a nice place,” Dewing said. “It’s super convenient and I’m able to walk to work.” The duplexes have fully furnished living rooms, kitchens, decks, and laundry rooms. Each bedroom includes a full-size bed, dresser, nightstand, and closet. The complex includes garage and off-street parking, and one unit includes accessibility modifications for team members with disabilities.
Rooms are available for National Park Service seasonal staff to rent as well. The proximity to the park is particularly helpful for park staff who assist with search and rescue operations.
Rocky Terraces is not the Conservancy’s first collaboration with the park on housing. In 2018, the Conservancy funded the work of the Larimer County Conservation Corps to complete the interiors of two new park dormitories which added a total of eight bedrooms and 16 beds to the housing inventory.
Conservancy Executive Director Estee Rivera said, “Rocky Terraces is an exciting milestone for the Conservancy knowing that talented and passionate candidates can accept jobs and fellowships critical to supporting the park and the Conservancy. In the past, too many exceptional candidates had to withdraw from these life-changing opportunities because of the lack of suitable housing.”
Senior Rocky Mountain National Park leaders joined Rocky Mountain Conservancy Board members and lead donors on June 28th to mark completion of the Rocky Terraces workforce housing for park and Conservancy staff.
The newly completed and occupied Rocky Terraces provides housing for Rocky Mountain National Park and Conservancy staff. Rocky Mountain Conservancy photos
High-5 To Funding Staff Salaries:
EP Museum Friends And Foundation Responds To Overhead Needs
The Estes Park Museum Friends & Foundation, Inc. gifts the Estes Park Museum roughly $25k each year for collections care, programs, marketing, and exhibits. This year, they found themselves in a position to offer even more programmatic support. But, similar to many nonprofits, the Museum operates in the throws of the Nonprofit Paradox: donors and foundations are apt to fund programs but hesitant to fund essential overhead expenses. The nonprofit can’t operate at full potential, much less expand, unless they have enough staff to rise to the occasion.
Estes Park happens to have a municipal museum; the Town of Estes Park provides roughly $500k a year for operating support. This provides for a Director, Curator of Collections, and Curator of Interpretation. Ideally, there
would be one Curator of Collections for every 10,000 artifacts. However, the Estes Park Museum has 35,000 artifacts and one Curator of Collections. To help get collections up to speed—and get caught up on three major backlog donations, one dating back to 2013—there is now an Assistant Curator of Collections. There is also now a Visitor Coordinator to take on volunteer management, re-vamp and grow the membership program, and potentially reintroduce the Museum Shop.
The Museum Friends and Foundation provided an additional $86k this year to support these two new hires with additional costs covered by the Town of Estes Park and Estes Park Museum. Bravo to all involved for identifying and responding to the imperative need for overhead support.
Bravo to the Estes Park Museum Friends and Foundation for identifying and responding to the imperative need for overhead support.
CARRI’s Speaker Series On American Kestrels
Come join members of CARRI for their third presentation in our Summer Speaker Series. On Wednesday, July 17th members of CARRI will present a program on North America’s smallest falcon, the American Kestrel. The presentation will be held upstairs at the Estes Park Bank Building at 255 Park Lane at 7:00 p.m.
These small falcons have been in decline for years. During this program we will discuss the reasons for the species decline and what we are doing as an organization to help the birds increase their numbers. American Kestrels are secondary cavity nesters, which means that they need to nest in a cavity but are unable to create one themselves.
Vendors Wanted For Fall Treasure Tables Event
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.
Because American Kestrels use cavities and nest boxes to raise their young, members of CARRI and their volunteers have built and placed more than 180 nest boxes for these diminutive predators. These boxes are placed on both private and public properties. Several of these boxes have live cameras within. By monitoring the cameras our researchers can identify almost every aspect of the American Kestrel’s courtship and nesting activities. We have been able to identify the various prey items that American Kestrels consume.
During the American Kestrel presentation, you will see never before seen videos and photographs of these diminutive raptors’ courtship activities, feeding their young, the growth of the young and what the young do after they leave their nests.
To learn about these wonderful little birds of prey and attend our presentation you can purchase tickets online at www.carriep.org/Summer Speaker Series or purchase them at the door at the Estes Park Bank Building on the evening of the program. Tickets are only $10.00 per person.
Nebraska Picnic This Sunday, 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.
song.
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
“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.
Nestling American Kestrel photo by Scott Rashid
Town of Estes Park Awards $150,000 Grant To EVICS Family Resource Center For Tuition Assistance Program
By: Rut Miller, Executive Director
The Estes Valley Investment in Childhood Success (EVICS) Family Resource Center is thrilled to announce a $150,000 grant from the Town of Estes Park 6E funds to support our Tuition Assistance Program. This vital funding will be distributed in two $75,000 installments in June and September 2024, aimed at making childcare more affordable for local families, including those typically eligible for CCAP during the current freeze.
The grant will provide financial assistance to licensed or exempt child care providers within the Estes Park R-3 School District from June 1, 2024, to December 31, 2024. This subsidy for providers will help lower parent fees, ensuring no household that qualifies for the Tuition Assistance program pays more than 15% of their income on childcare.
up to nine months of emergency or hardship assistance.
Addressing a Statewide Childcare Crisis: This grant comes at a crucial time as Colorado faces a severe childcare crisis. The state ranks ninth in the nation for the highest childcare costs,
The rising cost of childcare has increased by 36% over the past decade, forcing many parents to leave the workforce or deplete their savings. Employers are also impacted, experiencing higher absenteeism and turnover rates as employees struggle to afford reliable childcare.
Eligibility Criteria: Families must meet the following criteria to qualify for assistance:
● Household income must be at or below 80% of the area median income (AMI) and under 235% of the Federal Poverty Level.
● At least one parent or guardian must work full-time and reside within the Estes Park R-3 School District.
● Households with income between 80% and 115% of AMI may qualify for
with the average annual cost of daycare reaching $13,823.43. Additionally, there is a significant shortage of childcare slots, with 75,000 more children than available spots in licensed care facilities across Colorado.
The crisis is further exacerbated by the recent freeze on new enrollments for the Colorado Child Care Assistance Program (CCCAP) implemented by the Larimer County Department of Human Services due to budget constraints. This enrollment freeze underscores the urgent need for additional support to help families afford childcare. Impact on Families and Employers:
EVICS’ Commitment: Since 2006, EVICS has provided over $700,000 in childcare assistance, advocating for affordable access to quality childcare. We remain dedicated to supporting local families and providers, ensuring that children have a safe and nurturing environment while their parents work.
While the 6E funding provides significant support, it also addresses housing needs, making it essential to seek additional funding sources to sustain our Tuition Assistance Program. We invite the community to support EVICS and our efforts to provide affordable childcare. Your donations will directly fund childcare for our community's children, making a tangible difference in the lives of local families. Furthermore, donors can receive childcare
credits for their tax returns, covering up to 50% of the donation amount in Colorado.
The Child Care Contribution Tax Credit (CCCTC) - Enhancing Impact For Affordable Child Care-Established in 1999, the CCCTC aims to encourage private support for Colorado child care programs, including those funded by EVICS.
Monetary contributions to EVICS supporting childcare programs qualify for this credit. Along with the applicable Federal and State income tax deductions, donors receive a 50% tax credit against their Colorado income tax. While EVICS benefits from 100% of your donations, donors could achieve tax savings of up to 75% of their donation amount.
This is a two-generation win-win for children, families, and the entire Estes Valley community..
Applications Now Open: EVICS is currently accepting applications for the Tuition Assistance Program. Families who meet the eligibility criteria are encouraged to apply, especially those typically eligible for CCAP during the current freeze. For more information and to submit an application, visit our website at www.evics.org or contact us at (970) 586-3055 or at kylie@evics.org.
Author
And Photographer Book Signing At Trail Ridge Store
Xanterra Travel Collection is proud to announce Dr. James Pickering, author of Estes Park and Rocky Mountain National Park THEN & NOW, will be signing his books at the Trail Ridge Store in Rocky Mountain National Park on Friday, July 12, 2024, from 10:00 a.m. until 12:00 p.m. Dr. Pickering will be joined by photographers Derek Fortini, Estes Park Museum Director, who has co-authored, Lost Links: The Search for Estes Park’s Oldest Golf Courses, and Mic Clinger alternating photography and his position as a Department of Defense analyst and systems engineer.
Dr. Pickering is the author-editor of more than thirty books on Estes Park and the American West. He first came to Estes Park as a young boy of 9, coming all the way from suburban New York. Dr. Pickering is a retired Professor of Eng-
lish and served as Director of The Honors College at Michigan State University.
Derek Fortini holds a B.A. and M.A. in art history from the University of Denver and is the Estes Park Museum Director. Derek has presided over the Museum’s recent improvements and expansion.
Mic Clinger lives on the plains east of Denver and started taking photographs at the age of 14 with an old Tower camera given to him by his dad. Mic alternates photographing mountain scenery of Estes Park with climbing the formations of Lumpy Ridge.
Join Xanterra Travel Collection in welcoming Dr. Pickering, Derek Fortini, and Mic Clinger in their rendition looking through history of Rocky Mountain National Park and the Estes Valley.
Sketching And Painting Nature Class Every Tuesday Morning
Members of CARRI are having a wonderful time with all the artists that have been attending the weekly sketching and painting classes. The artists have been creating some amazing watercolor paintings.
Join us every Tuesday morning at 8:30 a.m.. throughout the summer, upstairs at the downtown Estes Park Bank Building. The attending artists will begin the class sketch ing in the field for about an hour and then move into the studio to create watercolor paintings. The subject matter will include birds, animals, trees, flowers and more.
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 at tend Sketching and Painting Na ture, go to www.carriep.org and
click the link Painting and Sketching in Nature. Each three-hour class is $49.95. If you need materials, we will provide them for an extra $10.00.
See you upstairs at the Estes Park Bank Building located at 255 Park Lane, Estes Park. Looking forward to drawing and painting every Tuesday.
We are public power. Doing right by you.
Platte River Power Authority was created 50 years ago by Estes Park, Fort Collins, Longmont and Loveland to provide locally generated electricity. Today, we’re transitioning to a noncarbon future built on technologies like wind and solar, working hard to ensure it’s one rooted in equity and reliability.
prpa.org/future
National Park Service Outreach And Digital Communications Specialist Visits Interns In The Park
In a stride towards inclusivity in conservation, Lucy Hurlbut, Outreach and Digital Communications Specialist for the WASO Youth Programs Division at the National Park Service, will visit Rocky Mountain Park. During her visit, Ms. Hurlbut will engage with interns from the Mosaics in Science Diversity Internship Program, the Latino Heritage Internship Program, and the Fish & Feathers Internship Program. These programs are managed by Environment for the Americas (EFTA), a Boulder-based nonprofit that links diverse communities to nature and bird conservation. She will meet with both the interns and their park mentors to discuss their work, which includes offering birdwatching and fishing programs to engage visitors with the park’s biodiversity, studying visitation trends to sus-
tainably manage increased interest, and examining the long-term effects of the 2020 fire on the park ecosystem.
Ms. Hurlbut's insights from this visit will be shared with program leaders in Washington, D.C., to spread successful stewardship models and inspire similar initiatives across the nation. Lucy Hurlbut's visit to Rocky Mountain Park highlights the National Park Service’s work in inspiring the next generation of conservationists and making sure our national parks are open, accessible, and inviting to everyone. If you are passionate about conservation and interested in learning more about internship opportunities or how to get involved, reach out to the National Park Service or Environment for the Americas at EnvironmentAmericas.org
Black Swallowtail (watercolor)
Varmints
By: Brad Manard
I Googled varmints and found this definition: “A troublesome wild animal.” That definition is broader than I expected.
I always thought of varmints as mice in my garage, squirrels eating all of the food in the bird feeder, or that one time, years ago in Nebraska when I took the garbage out (after dark no less) and there was a possum in the trash can. Did he scare me? Well, after that I carried a brightly lit flashlight to take the trash out. That was a varmint.
On a recent RMNPhotographer Tour, a chipmunk scurried across the road in front of us as we moved up Old Fall River Road. A guest asked, “What was that?” I replied, “A varmint.” “What’s a varmint?” they asked.
With the question, I flashed back to my early years as an English teacher. I shared an old, drafty house with another teacher we’ll call Scott. Scott was on one couch, I was on the other, and we were grading our students’ papers. As we did, a varmint went scooting across the living room floor. Simultaneously, we both yelled, “What was that?” When we did, we realized we had both jumped and were standing on our couches. Real men, athletic coaches, strong bodies standing on a couch terrified of a mouse.
Such was a varmint experience. Now I see varmints every day. There is the least chipmunk, least because it’s the smallest member of the chipmunk family. Least
chipmunks are the varmints along Trail Ridge Road that dare tourists to feed them. They jump on the rock wall, scoot up before a teenager from Iowa, sit up all cute like, and rub their hands together as if they can’t wait for the next Cheeto.
My favorite varmint is the golden-mantled ground squirrel. For years, I thought the golden-mantled ground squirrel was a chipmunk. Why? Because they look just like Alvin the Chipmunks. Alvin and his brothers, definitely varmints but adorable ones, don’t have stripes on their faces anymore. Somewhere along the animated history of Alvin and the Chipmunks, they lost their stripes. So are Alvin and the Chipmunks really golden-mantled ground squirrels? A serious question for varmint lovers to ponder.
The rodent ground squirrels, stripeless and larger, are definitely varmints. While cute when they rise up on their hind legs and stand erect scanning the area for predators, they can turn hillsides to dust. Digging their -burrows, they churn up the ground leaving the soft earth scatter with holes. Those are the holes that my dogs, dogs not much bigger than varmints, want to stick their snouts in. So each time we pass a varmint hole, my dogs noses become dirty, their paws covered in dust. Though I pull them away, they continue to want to play in the varmint's dirt. We all know about marmots, the whistle pigs of the tundra. High in the mountain elevations, they sun themselves on rocks as they scan the horizon. Then, when a Tesla quietly sneaks up on them, and they are surprised by the silent car, they let out a high-pitched chirp warning all the other marmots. A potential electrical threat is approaching like a trojan horse full of tourists ready to leap from the car, cellphone cameras in hand.
Oh, you have to both love and loathe the varmints. Years ago, I sat with my
hidden from us. When our RMNPhotographer tour guests have not been blessed with a moose sighting, a bull elk striding through a meadow, or a bighorn sheep grazing on the hillside, on the way back down Trail Ridge Road we stop at Rainbow Curve. There our guests will gaze out over the eastern horizon past Horseshoe Park and Estes Park only to be surprised by scavenging varmints. The chipmunks and golden-mantled ground squirrel will leap to the rock ledge begging to be fed. Our guests, surprised, will quickly turn to “ooohhing” and “aaahhing” at the little critters sitting before them. While we
sister, Claire, in the quiet solitude of a mountain rock high on the tundra. It was a peaceful moment of a brother and sister talking easily as we scanned the distant beauty of the towering, snow capped peaks.
Claire, in her comfort, opened a Snickers Bars. Placing it in her lap, she secured the rapper in a safe place for disposal. As she did, a goldenmantled ground squirrel appeared from nowhere. Quickly in her lap, he seized the Snickers Bar, bigger than he was, in the grip of his jaws, and ran off with the sweet meal leaving my sister treatless.
don’t feed them, watching them scoot and scurry from tourist to tourist is adorable.
Yes, they are varmints, but they can save a tour when the larger animals have
When all other animals have hidden from us, the varmints save our tour as a delightful, little wildlife experience.
Marmot
Marmot
Chipmunk
Golden-Mantled Ground Squirrel
Richardson Ground Squirrel
Golden-Mantled Ground Squirrel
By: Scott Wilseck
Two of my biggest projects this summer are building a garage and practicing my piano playing to accompany silent movies at the Historic Park Theatre. It’s good to have two contrasting projects as long as I don’t hit one of my fingers with a hammer, which would definitely hamper the piano playing. It’s also good after working outside all day to sit down at the piano in the evening and practice playing along with one of the movies which will be shown. While it might seem like these two endeavors have nothing to do with each other, the reality is that in one of the silent films I am practicing, Buster Keaton is building a house. I wish Buster were in Estes Park to help me, because the way he builds the house is nothing like what I am doing to build the garage. There are several differences;
I have a lot of lumber coming to my lot for the garage, and I keep planning on where to store it. The wood will arrive at different times in several truckloads. Buster Keaton’s house “kit” has all the parts fitting in a box that is about the size of a casket. I have plans to follow which have been carefully drawn up by a structural engineer. In Buster’s house kit, the parts are all numbered, marked for easy assembly. I had to have an excavator and concrete contractor prepare my worksite. Not a problem for Buster. He just takes the numbered parts out of the box and starts assembling.
Summer Projects
bridge, a spinning carousel in an auto repair garage are just examples of some of the crazy things in his films.
Sometimes there are disasters. No matter what happened, his facial expression was always the same. He was known as the “great stone face.” He used to say “the more serious I turned, the bigger laugh I got.” Desperate situations on the screen never seemed to phase him.
cameo roles in many full length movies. The first time I saw Keaton on the silver screen he was the train conductor on the “Silverton” train that Phileas Fogg rode in his attempt to go “Around the World in Eighty Days.” I remember as a 4th grader getting pulled out of school by my parents to go to downtown Chicago and see the film. I was thrilled to get out of school for a half day. The scene prompted my father the next summer to spend part of our Colorado vacation time in Durango so we could ride that same train.
Perhaps Keaton’s best film was “One Week,” where he builds the house described previously. “One Week” was selected in 2008 for presentation in the US National Film Registry by the Library of Congress as being “culturally, historically or aesthetically significant.” I’m not sure if it is worthy of those accolades, but it is a funny film. I can’t imagine anyone else starring in “One Week” and going through the stunts, pranks and gimmicks that are a trademark of Keaton’s films. Some of the things that happen remind me of some of the ridiculous things that happen in “The Blues Brothers,” like when a building gets blown up and Jake and Elwood just get out from under a pile of bricks and rubble without injury to continue on their “mission from God.”
neuver them in very humorous ways. The dates and times of the films are: Wednesday, July 17 at 7 p.m.; Friday, July 19 at 2 p.m. and Sunday, July 21 at 2 p.m. The cost of an adult ticket is $13. Children 12 and under are free if accompanied by a paying theatre goer. Be sure to arrive a half hour early to hear me play some of my favorite old time songs on the piano that is over 100 years old. Singing along or dancing in the aisles is always welcome.
Some of the wooden beams I’m using weigh over 150 pounds, creating some difficult moments to set them in place. Buster has a heavy upright piano delivered by a guy who simply carries it on his shoulder and easily lowers it to the ground at the worksite. I wish that guy was here to move those beams around.
I’ll be lucky if I finish this garage by Labor Day. Buster builds the entire house in less than two days. So it would be nice if Buster were here to help me. His tricks or stunts would be amusing and they would expedite the job at hand. Keaton was known in Hollywood as the guy who created the best gimmicks or gags that created a lot of laughs on the screen. A house with walls that can be removed, a bannister that flips around to be a ladder, a sailboat where the masts collapse to fit under a
Keaton was very good at taking falls; he didn’t have a stuntman replace him for those scenes. He said he had great experience taking falls from the days when his father pushed him around on stage, sometimes knocking him into the scenery and sometimes knocking him off the stage. At six months of age, he fell down a flight of stairs and survived the fall quite well, which led to his nickname when Houdini, of all people noted, “that kid can take a fall or a ‘buster’ quite well.” He had the ability to step on or off a moving train smoothly without injury. One time taking a fall in a movie did not go well and the result was a broken back.
Keaton made a lot of great silent films in the twenties, but his earnings and fame never rivaled that of Charlie Chaplin or Harold Lloyd. He made a lot of films with Fatty Arbuckle. A lot of the gags that Arbuckle performed in his films were created by Keaton. By the 1930s and 1940s his star faded. As talkies grew in popularity, Keaton’s work diminished. In the 1950s he experienced a comeback of sorts. No, he is not related to Michael or Diane. He had
Keaton’s classic film “One Week” is just one of three films shown during the July festival at the Historic Park Theatre. One of the other films, “Mighty Like a Moose” is a Charley Chase film about a married couple trying to secretly improve their physical appearance with hilarious results. Chase prided himself on featuring “thinking man’s comedy.” His films involved humorous situations instead of the usual slapstick of the silent era. Of course, you can’t have a silent festival without a Chaplin film and “The Rink” is one of his best. There are several scenes at a roller rink where Chaplin, who was very athletic, did his own skating. Like most Chaplin films, he has confrontations with men who are physically larger and stronger, but Charlie always has a way to outsmart or outma-
Scott Wilseck
Buster Keaton
Scott Wilseck’s garage project.
The Historic Park Theatre.
Buster Keaton’s house project.
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.
KEY
Ⓡ: Registration required. Visit calendar.estesvalleylibrary.org to sign up.
BOOKS & AUTHORS
Surviving Summer with The Last Kids on Earth: Author Talk with Max Brallier Ⓡ
Tuesday, July 16, 12 - 1 p.m., online
Would you survive a zombie apocalypse? Join this virtual talk with New York Times bestselling author Max Brallier as we discuss designing monsters and villains, and the unique ways in which to defeat them. Presented with the Library Speakers Consortium.
Learning the Power of Poetry: Author Talk with Elizabeth Acevedo Ⓡ
Tuesday, July 23, 12 - 1 p.m., online
Enjoy a short reading from National Book Award winning novel-in-verse, The Poet X, then hear from author and poet Acevedo as she discusses “creating out loud.” Presented with the Library Speakers Consortium.
ALL AGES
Adventure Continues with Scrapbooking Ⓡ
Thursday, July 11, 5 - 6:30 p.m., Makerspace
repeated Monday, July 15, 2 - 3 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.
Tech Help with Digital Navigators of Larimer County Ⓡ
Wednesday, July 17, 10 a.m. - 4 p.m., Dream Study Room
Thursday, July 18, 10 a.m. - 4 p.m., Dream Study Room
Wednesday, July 24, 10 a.m. - 4 p.m., Dream Study Room
Thursday, July 25, 10 a.m. - 4 p.m., Dream Study Room
Build your digital skills, including using your smartphone, accessing websites and accounts online, improving online communications, and more. Appointments required; sign up at calendar.estesvalleylibrary.org. Service offered in English and Spanish. Presented by AmeriCorps service members.
Adventure Begins in the Kitchen: Pizza Ⓡ
Thursday, July 18, 11:30 a.m. - 1 p.m., Hondius Room
Learn how to roll dough and shape crust, then add toppings and take home a delicious pizza to devour! Supplies and ingredients generously provided by Poppy’s Pizza & Grill. An “Adventure Begins At Your Library” Summer Reading Program event.
Adventure Continues with Origami Albums Ⓡ
Thursday, July 25, 5 - 6 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.
ADULTS
Weekly Poetry Meetup Ⓡ
Monday, July 15, 6:15 - 7:30 p.m., Wasson Room
Monday, July 22, 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. Registration is encouraged, as a minimum of two registrations are required to host that week’s meetup.
Bring Your Own Book Club Ⓡ
Tuesday, July 16, 6 - 7:30 p.m., Inkwell & Brew
Know of a must-read adventure book? Bring it to this community show-andtell, share what you love about it, and leave with a fresh TBR (To Be Read) list full of recommendations from other readers. Your first beverage is on us! An “Adventure Begins At Your Library” Summer Reading Program event.
TEENS & KIDS
Summer Foam Party! Ⓡ
Tuesday, July 16, 9:30 - 10:30 a.m., Stanley Park
Kids of all ages are invited to an outdoor foam party! Wear swimsuits and sunscreen and meet us at the grassy area near the Stanley Park playground for family-friendly tunes and bubbles galore. Please note: the foam is non-toxic, biodegradable, non-staining, unscented, and hypoallergenic.
Search for hidden clues and solve riddles to find treasure! Participants will complete an outdoor scavenger hunt to win prizes. Recommended for ages 9 and up. An “Adventure Begins At Your Library” Summer Reading Program event.
Adventure Begins with Henna Tattoos Ⓡ
Saturday, July 20, 1 - 2 p.m., Makerspace
Learn about the history and meaning of henna while using stencils, special henna markers, and paint to create our own (temporary) tattoos. An “Adventure Begins At Your Library” Summer Reading Program event.
Lego Club: Adventure in Legos Ⓡ Saturday, July 20, 3 - 4 p.m., Hondius Room
Explore different building and engineering challenges with Legos. This month, we’ll be building boats, then testing to see if they’ll float! An “Adventure Begins At Your Library” Summer Reading Program event.
Adventure Begins with Rock Climbing Ⓡ
Tuesday, July 23, 2 - 4 p.m., Estes Park Mountain Shop
Learn the basics of rock climbing, including tying knots, proper belay techniques, and safety and equipment procedures, then try your hand at indoor climbing. An “Adventure Begins At Your Library” Summer Reading Program event.
Adventure Begins in the Kitchen: Crepes Ⓡ
Wednesday, July 24, 12 - 1 p.m., Hondius Room
repeated Wednesday, July 24, 1:302:30 p.m., Hondius Room
Use a crepe griddle and a variety of delectable ingredients to create sweet and savory crepes. 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.
Storybook Explorers: Sat., July 13 at 11:15 a.m.
Read to Therapy Dog Annie: Thurs., July 25 at 11 a.m.
Hora del Cuento Bilingüe: Aventuras en las ciencias Ⓡ
Bilingual Storytime: Adventures in Science Ⓡ
Friday, July 12, 3:30 - 4:30 p.m., Hondius Room
Ven a compartir en esta Aventuras en las ciencias, donde podremos bailar, cantar, leer un libro bilingüe, y hacer erupcionar un volcán. Join us for Adventures in Science, where we will dance, sing, read a bilingual book, and make a volcano erupt! An “Adventure Begins At Your Library” Summer Reading Program event.
Outdoor Storytime Adventures: Stroller Stories Ⓡ
Wednesday, July 17, 10:30 - 11 a.m., Visitor Center Parking Garage
Dress for the weather and enjoy a lakeside, strolling storytime. We’ll stop along the way to share stories, rhymes, and songs. An “Adventure Begins At Your Library” Summer Reading Program event. Music & Movement Ⓡ
Saturday, July 20, 11 - 11:30 a.m., Hondius Room
Develop listening and motor skills in this lively, interactive program with music in both English and Spanish. Únete a nosotros en este programa interactivo en el que incluiremos bailes, canciones y crearemos ritmo. Incluiremos música tanto en Inglés como en Español, a medida de que desarrollemos nuestras habilidades auditivas y motoras.
Outdoor Storytime Adventures: Community Garden Ⓡ
Wednesday, July 24, 10:30 - 11:15 a.m., Estes Valley Community Garden
Join us for a strawberry-themed storytime, including songs, rhymes, and a learning activity designed for littles ages 2-5 (and their caregivers). An “Adventure Begins At Your Library” Summer Reading Program event.
MAKERSPACE
Learn the Laser Cutter Ⓡ
Monday, July 22, 9:30 - 11 a.m. For ages 10 and up (participants under the age of 15 must be accompanied by an adult).
FRIENDS OF THE LIBRARY FOUNDATION
Cliffhanger Used Books
Cliffhanger Used Books, located next to the Post Office, is operated by the Friends of the Library Foundation, offering gently-used books, movies, and music at discount prices. Open daily from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. KEY
Ⓡ: Registration required. Visit calendar.estesvalleylibrary.org to sign up.
Estes
Wanted: Library Board Members! Serve A Community Of Readers
Love libraries and what they contribute to our society? Interested in serving your community? Good news:
The Estes Valley Public Library District is seeking two Trustees to serve on its governing Board. If you believe in the value of strong public library services for the Estes Valley, please join us!
The board is responsible for the Library’s strategic plan, independent taxing district finances, and setting of library policy. It delegates authority to the Library Director, who operates under Board policies.
Currently, the Board has two vacancies to fill: one seat will complete a term ending December 31, 2025; the other will fill a full four-year term, beginning January 1, 2025 and ending December 31, 2028. All candidates must live within the boundaries of the Library District, which includes Estes Park and other portions of Larimer County.
The Library Board brings together a diversity of thought and expertise, including backgrounds in business, law, education, real estate, the military, and the arts. Trustees share a passion for reading and the life-changing power of literacy, hands-on service, and advocacy for the
success of every member of the community.
While candidates with expertise in a variety of backgrounds are encouraged to apply, the board would be especially pleased to receive applications from those with legislative, legal, and youthserving organizational experience. This volunteer position acts as a community ambassador for the Library. All candidates should be willing to devote appropriate time and effort to the role.
If you’re ready to apply, it’s easy to submit your Trustee application online. First consideration will be given to those applications received by Friday, August 9, 2024.
Interviews will be conducted with the Board’s Nominating Committee. Then, successful applicants will be recommended for appointment to the Town of Estes Park Board of Trustees and Larimer County Commissioners, who are the appointing authorities.
We’d love to hear from you. Visit the Library website at estesvalleylibrary.org/board to learn additional details, or call me at 970-5868116 with your questions.
Skydiving Accident Survivor Speaks At Y Library
Come to YMCA of the Rockies Maude Jelllison Library on Thursday, July 18, at 2 p.m. and at 7 p.m. to hear the story live and in person why Jason considers the most difficult day in his life to be the best day of his life.
Jason Dennen was in a skydiving accident that almost took his life. The doctor who performed emergency life saving surgery on him stared at his comatose body the day after the surgery in utter disbelief. The doctor told his family that he couldn’t believe he survived all of the traumatic injuries that he had incurred during the accident. He said that no one survives what Jason just survived. No one.
Jason woke up from a coma that lasted eight days and required him to undergo multiple surgeries to repair four organs and 20 broken bones. His badly broken body required him to stay in the hospital for three and a half months, undergo 11 months of rehabilitation and re-learn to walk. After being told by his doctor he
may never be able to run again, he decided to sign up for a triathlon to test the doctor’s prognosis. Less than one year after the accident he completed a triathlon and proved the doctor wrong.
The long journey to recovery from the accident allowed him time to reassess the direction of his life and answer the question why was his life spared. This second chance at life revealed to him a new purpose in life. He promised himself that he would share his story and what he learned to help others that are going through difficult hardships in their own lives.
Directions to the Maude Jellison Library: upon entering the YMCA grounds from Spur 66, take the second left turn, which is at the top of the slope. Then take the fsecond right turn into the parking lot of Longhouse from where the library is easily accessed. For information on this and future programming call the Maude Jellison Library at 970-586-3341 extension 1133.
Park Jazz Big Band To Present Concert This Sunday
The Estes Park Jazz Big Band will present an evening concert this Sunday, July 14 starting at 7:00 p.m. The free concert will be held at Hyde Chapel, YMCA of the Rockies.
Chuck Varilek will direct the local jazz band which is in its 33rd year of providing music for Estes Park residents and visitors.
Featured vocalists for this concert will be Dr. Cory Workman, who will sing “Is You Is Or Is You Ain’t My Baby” and Nelson Burke, who will sing “You’re Nobody ‘Til Somebody Loves You.”
The Big Band will perform big band era standards including “Singing In The Rain,” “Kansas City,” “One O’Clock Jump” and “Night Train.” Jan Scott, normally playing tenor sax in the band, will be featured on clarinet as the band plays
the Glenn Miller standard, “Moonlight Serenade.” The band will also perform several other songs in a variety of styles. Continuing to celebrate the 100th birthday of composer Henry Mancini this year, the band will perform his hit, “Moon River.” Since the concert is just a little more than a week past July 4th, the Jazz Big Band will perform “Armed Forces Medley” to honor our veterans and active military. Any members of the Armed Forces in attendance will be asked to stand during the playing of their service song.
The Estes Park Jazz Big Band is made up of musicians from Estes Park and surrounding communities. For more information about the band or the concert, please contact Chuck Varilek at 970-227-8704.
An old man was eating in a truck stop when three rough-looking bikers walked in. As they passed the old man, the first biker pushed his cigarette into the old man’s pie, then laughed and took his seat at the counter. The second biker picked up the old man’s glass of milk and spit into it. The third biker turned over the old man’s plate before joining the others at the counter. Without saying a word to the laughing bikers, the old man put his money down, got up and left the diner. One of the bikers said to the waitress, “Not much of a man, was he?” The waitress replied, “Not much of a truck driver either. He just backed his big rig over three motorcycles!” They expected their misbehaving to go unrequited. No ‘immunity’ there.
There’s been quite a stir recently about a former president appealing for…and getting…‘immunity’, for some things that might be done. It strikes me that the desire for such is not just felt by former president Trump. It’s desired, even expected, by most people in some aspects of their lives. Not always ‘immunity’, but simply being able to get away with certain behaviors they are guilty of. People ‘roll through stop signs’, ‘drink and drive’, drive distractedly, ‘cheat’ in their marriages and other aspects of their lives, even pull triggers, expecting that there will be no ‘payback’ for their actions. All too often, however, as in the case of the bikers, they see that ‘chickens come home to roost’, ‘the piper must be paid’, and other such sayings from the past prove true. Ultimately, in most cases, there is no immunity for misdeeds that people commit. Somewhere, sometime, they will be held accountable and face such, reaping appropriate consequences.
The Bible speaks often about this. Paul warns: “Whatsoever a man sows he will reap!” (Gal. 6:7) He elaborates: “He that sows to his flesh will reap corruption, he that sows to the Spirit will reap eternal life.” Many people seem to think that they will receive ‘immunity’ from God despite failing to follow the above guidelines. Some think that if they do some good things it will offset the failure to ‘sow to the Spirit’ as Paul described, that just a few ‘good deeds’, will offset the lack of dedication to God’s rule in their lives. Jesus described them: “Some will say, ‘Lord, did we not prophesy in your name, cast out demons, and do many mighty works, etc.’ His answer? “I don’t know you, depart from me.” (Matthew 7:22, 23) Some say, “Well, Lord, I used to go to church and serve you, but now I’d rather take a walk, go hiking, sleep in! Please offer me immunity, because of what I used to do.” God’s Word speaks to that: “Those, once enlightened, tasting God’s heavenly gift, partakers of His Holy Spirit, and tasting the good Word of God…if they fall away (stop)…NO IMMUNITY (my words)…because they crucify His Son, Jesus, all over again, and put Him to an open shame! (HIS words).” (Hebrews 6:4-6)
The reason that most shudder at the thought of an undisciplined man receiving immunity is because that person will most likely abuse privileges…and the same is true with us. Solomon said it well, “Because sentence against an evil work is not executed speedily, therefore the heart of the sons of men is fully set within them to do evil.” (Eccl. 8:11) Such is evident in our nation with lawlessness prevailing in many places. Violators expect that ‘if they get caught’ they will be ‘given immunity’ or punished lightly, and such hearts are often ‘fully set to do evil’. Please be much in prayer for our nation at this time.
However, the ‘Good News’ for the faithful Christian, who ‘sows to the Spirit’ and ‘walks in the light, as He is in the light’ (I Jn. 1:7) there IS ‘Immunity’, because of the blood of Christ that has ‘paid a debt we could not pay’, and God’s wonderful grace. Please check your expectations for immunity and see if they are well founded. If they are, ‘rejoice and be exceeding glad, for great is your reward in heaven’! Bob Lewis
Estes Park Private Garden Tour
This Saturday, July 13, 8 a.m. - 1 p.m. Mrs. Walsh's Garden, starting point of tour
Starting at 8 a.m., pick up native plants especially curated for Estes Park and surrounding Rocky Mountain areas. Tour from Mrs. Walsh's Garden will start at 9 a.m.
The Estes Park Garden Tour includes six private and one public garden, Mrs. Walsh’s Garden on the west end of Elkhorn Ave. Mrs. Walsh’s Garden (MWG) is a hidden gem, with a stun ning backdrop of a granite cliff. It is de signed as a walled gar den filled with native plants that thrive in Estes Park and the mountains. It was started in the late 1990s on land purchased by Mrs. Walsh’s granddaugh ter who wanted to save the land from development, while honoring her grandmother. The garden was severely damaged during the 2013 flood, and has since been replanted and maintained by the Town’s Parks Division with significant involvement of volunteers.
suitability for the mountains, for a requested donation. At 9 a.m., folks will be sent off with directions to visit the private gardens.
Carpooling will be encouraged, as some of the properties have limited parking. There is a free public parking lot across the street at Performance Park. Plants not distributed in the morning will be transported to one of the private gardens on the tour and you can get additional plants after you have seen some of the plants in the gardens.
The tour starts at Mrs. Walsh’s Garden at 8 a.m. where ticket holders can obtain native plants, especially chosen for their
All tour tickets must be purchased online. The link to register can be found at www.conps.org.
Estes Park Artist Studio Tour Returns
The 8th Annual Artist Studio Tour invites the creative curious, shoppers and talkers (who love to learn) into the studios of professional artists in Estes. Sixteen local artists with four additional guest artists will open their home studios to demonstrate their fine art and craft process including: woodturning, sculpture, furniture, ceramics, oil painting, photography, mixed media, hand-
made clothing, sacred garden sculptures, and more. The Estes Park Artist Studio Tour is Saturday and Sunday, August 17-18, 2024, from 10 until 5. Handmade items priced from $10 and up. There is something for everyone at this year’s Artist Studio Tour. How do you “do the tour?” Find our interactive map on our web site or pick up a paper copy of the tour at Bear & Bee Makers Studio & Boutique in the Stanley Village Shopping Center or Elements of Touch Wellness Spa. Choose the route that best serves you; visit one studio or all sixteen. Some locations are right off the highway; others are up a dirt road. Information on each artist, examples of their work, and an interactive map can be found at www.EPStudioTour.com.
Step Back In Time With Ethan Knightchilde’s "Greetings From The Old West" Presentation
Join us for an unforgettable journey into the heart of American history as Ethan Knightchilde presents "Greetings from the Old West" at the Estes Park Senior Citizens Center (EPSCC) on Tuesday, July 16, from 12:00 p.m. to 1:00 p.m., 1760 Olympian Ln. This free event promises to captivate history enthusiasts and curious minds alike.
Drawing from a treasure trove of legends and hundreds of sites he has explored over the years, Knightchilde will share some of his favorite tales and histories of the Old West. The presentation will feature a rich array of historical and contemporary images, as well as exclusive clips from the award-winning documentary "Ghosts of the West: The End of the Bonanza Trail," which will begin showing at the Historic Park Theatre on Thursday, July 18.
E. S. Knightchilde is a celebrated writer-director, known not only for his Best Documentary Award-winning film "Ghosts of the West: The End of the Bonanza Trail," but also for the multiaward-winning short "Not for Today, But for All Time…". He is also the author and photographer of two acclaimed books on ghost towns and has delivered multimedia lectures to packed audiences. Currently, he is hard at work on the next installment of the "Ghosts of the West" film series, titled "Stampede on the Bonanza Trail." Copies of his works will be available for purchase.
With a quarter-century of experience and tens of thousands of miles traveled, Knightchilde has documented and photographed hundreds of ghost towns and mining camps of the Old West. His expertise and passion for the subject are unparalleled. A former President of the Ghost Town Club of Colorado (ghosttownclub.org), Knightchilde resides in the Rocky Mountains, where he draws inspiration for his ongoing projects. Knightchilde's impressive background includes studies in Writing/Producing, Writing/Directing, Cinematography, and Post-Production at The Colorado Film School. His filmography boasts titles such as "Not for Today, But for All Time...," "A Single Beam of Light," and "Ghosts of the West Rag." In addition to his own projects, he has contributed to music videos, television shows, commercials, and both independent and studio films.
The Senior Center welcomes attendees to bring lunch or pre-order one for the presentation. The meal on Tuesday will be fried chicken with mashed potatoes, gravy, and vegetables. The cost of a meal is $7 for EPSCC members and $11 for non-members. Become a member of the EPSCC for just $35 per year and take advantage of lunch discounts and all the great activities. You must order your meal before 1:00 p.m. on Monday, July 15. For more information about the EPSCC or to order a meal, please call (970) 581-2195.
Thursday Bridge Notes
Bridge is played at the Estes Park Senior Center each Thursday at 12:30 p.m. (call 970-581-2195 for more information). Players of all skill levels are welcome and needed. We do our best to maintain a fun and friendly game. The $30 yearly membership fee charged by the senior center fee entitles you to many other benefits.
The group raised $151 to support the fight against Alzheimer’s disease on June 29th. It was part of the “We fight on the day that has the most light” program and how our small group came through. Please contact Lloyd Parker (970) 5813505 for details. Both beginning & intermediate lessons are available at no cost.
Estes Park Senior Citizens Center Menu
July 15 – 19
Monday, July 15 Denver Omelette (ham, mushrooms, onions & green peppers) w/ Hashbrowns & fruit
Friday, July 26 Creamy Tuscan Shrimp (w/ sun-dried tomatoes & spinach) w/ Pasta, garlic bread & side salad
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, July 15th, you need to call before 1:00 PM on Friday, July 12th. For reservations call 970-581-2195 and leave a detailed message. Pre-paid meal tickets and membership forms are available at the Estes Park Senior Citizens Center located at 1760 Olympian Lane.
The Center is OPEN Monday thru Friday 10 – 1 TriFit M-W-F 10:30-11:15 AM Circuit Balance Class Monday 1-1:45 PM
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
Upcoming Exhibit
“Flights of Fancy”
July 19th - August 26th
News From The Art Center Of Estes Park
Opening Reception July 19th, 5-7 p.m.
Sponsored by Donna Newendorp and Nancy and Dae O’Farrell
“Flights of Fancy” at the Art Center of Estes Park
Join us July 19th from 5-7 p.m. for the opening reception for an enchanting art exhibition, ‘Flights of Fancy,’ featuring oil and mixed media paintings by Astrid Paustian and woodcarving and pyrography by Jim Sneary. This stunning exhibit runs July 19 – August 26 at the Art Center of Estes Park.
After 36 years in the aerospace industry, Jim Sneary decided to try his hand at bird carving. Very quickly it became apparent that classes, practice and lots of patience were all required. Now he is having fun with his bird carvings and gourd art. Jim is always looking for new and fun things to try and has added woodburning on wood and paper as well as carving and woodburning on gourds to his list. He finds the work very relaxing, and it is a special bonus when others enjoy the results.
"I want to paint the way the bird sings," Claude Monet once said. This quote captures the joy and spontaneity Astrid Paustian aims to express in her art. Liv-
ing in Colorado, she is inspired by its stunning scenery and skies. Astrid works in oil, pastel, mixed media, and on silk, enjoying the vivid colors and textures these mediums offer. Her art has become increasingly abstract, seeking to capture a sense of place and fleeting moments in time. Through abstract paintings, abstracted landscapes, and plein air works, she uses vivid colors intuitively to create pieces that are peaceful and uplifting.
Come and enjoy the stunning works by these amazing artists!
Social Media:
The Art Center can be viewed not only on our website at www.artcenterofestes.com but we are on Facebook at ArtCenterOfEstes and Instagram at artcenterofep.
The Art Center of Estes Park is a nonprofit organization which provides a facility to support the work of local and regional artists, striving to promote exhibition, education, and excellence in the visual arts. Proceeds benefit the artist and contribute to the Art Center’s education and community outreach. The Art Center is located at 517
Big Thompson Avenue, in Middle Stanley
Village, below Safeway and above Subway. For more information, please call the Art Center at 970-586-5882 or visit our website at www.artcenterofestes.com.
Jim Sneary
Astrid Paustian
Art Show And Sale To Benefit Colorado Avian Research Institute
Join members of Colorado Avian Research Institute (CARRI) on Friday, July 19th and Saturday the 20th for an art show and sale of Scott Rashid’s art, with a portion of each sale to benefit the research and rehabilitation of birds in the Estes Valley and Northern Colorado. The opening will be from 6-8 p.m. on July 19th and 6- 8 p.m. on July 20th, at the Bank of Estes Park building at 255 Park
Lane. We will be meeting upstairs, Suite 204. Enter from the parking lot. The Bank of Estes Park is across from Bond Park and the Police Department.
Scott Rashid has been painting birds since 1982, when he created his one-ofa-kind style of painting birds. Each piece combines the concepts of cubism and realism. Like cubistic painters, Scott is interested in showing multiple views of his subjects in each painting, but un-
like the cubists, he wants his paintings to be realistic or representational. If it fits in the composition, Scott will place a habitat scene in each painting which enables the viewer to see what type of habitat where they might find the bird.
Many of the species that Scott paints are birds that he has studied in the wild and in some cases, birds that he has had in hand. Having the birds in hand enables Scott to gain reference material to depict
birds in ways that other artists cannot. Both evenings at 7:00 p.m., Scott will be giving presentations about his art, the birds that he has painted and why he has depicted each species.
Join us at the Bank of Estes Park, downtown location, across from Bond Park to see some amazing watercolor paintings and the opportunity to own one of these beautiful pieces of art for yourself.
Black-capped Chickadee
Northern Shrike
Ferruginous Hawk
Ghost Towns And The Siren Call Of The Old West
By: Ethan Knightchilde
When I was a 9-year-old living on the east coast, a juvenile mystery novel gathering dust on a classroom bookshelf captured my attention. I long since have forgotten its title and details, but the setting of an old west ghost town and a lost mine hidden in the hills beyond has remained undimmed in my imagination. Perhaps two years after that (and utterly unrelated), I “convinced” my parents that a used 8 mm movie camera might be the only suitable gift for my upcoming birthday. I was soon shooting every vacation and family event for which I could afford to buy film.
Decades later, I was living in Colorado. While out of town for a wedding, a conversation with friends turned to the subject of ghost towns and an abandoned silver camp nearby. It is my only memory of that evening, and I will never forget my visit the following day—of how I stood before a weathered old building with its open doors and vacant windows and felt that it somehow stared back at me.
I embarked on a few road trip vacations, visiting every ghost town I could find and capturing many of them on black- and-white motion picture film. Though cutting together a unique vaca-
tion home movie was my original goal, the passing years saw the road trips grow in scope; and the amount of footage I accumulated became less the material for a three-minute film and more a testament to my chronic illness as a “ghost town junkie.”
That initial feeling that the buildings somehow stared back still haunted me, and I eventually felt compelled to speak for that which has no voice. More than a decade after that first visit, test screenings were held at the Historic Park Theatre for the feature documentary Ghosts of the West: The End of the Bonanza Trail.
Beginning on that crisp, early autumn day, the ghost town project gradually took on a life of its own. The movie first received positive reviews from audiences, then critical acclaim, and theatres showing it began to sell out. The project then expanded into a series of lectures, two books, and a follow-up feature in development. The siren call of those abandoned places has only grown stronger over time, and it has driven me to explore some of the most remote and lonely settings in the West over the last
two decades.
This summer, the documentary that started it all returns to the movie house where it began its journey: the Historic Park Theatre, built when the film’s events were still in living memory. Catch a screening at 2 p.m. on July 18 & 25, August 1 & 15, September 5 & 19, and October 17. As the film’s writer-director, I will be on hand whenever possible to answer questions about the entire project after each program. It is my sincere wish that the Ghosts of the West will step out from amongst the shadows of history and folklore for you and, as they have done for me since reading that mystery novel as a child, stand undimmed in your imagination.
Visit www.HistoricParkTheatre.com for information and tickets. Visit KnightSkyPictures.com, the production company’s official website, to view the film’s trailer, gallery, and production info. [Portions of this article originally appeared in opening night programs and the book Ghosts of the West: Tales and Legends from the Bonanza Trail by E. S. Knightchilde.]
Local Businesses Join Forces in Beloved Annual Event Celebrating “Shop Local” Where’s Waldo? In Estes Park, of course! Celebrating its twelfth anniversary in July 2024, Find Waldo Local has become a beloved summertime event in
Reed owner of Macdonald Book Shop. To join in the fun, people can simply pick up a “Find Waldo Local in Estes Park!” stamp card at Macdonald Book Shop or the Estes Valley Library. With each miniature Waldo they spot, searchers get their card stamped or
communities nationwide. This year, Candlewick Press and the American Booksellers Association are again teaming up with 310 independent bookstores nationwide, including Macdonald Book Shop, for some hide-and- seek fun designed to encourage residents to patronize their local businesses. There is no charge to participate, and the hunt lasts for the entire month of July.
Families love joining the scavenger hunt to find the iconic children’s book character, with his red-and- whitestriped shirt and black glasses, hidden in twenty-five local businesses, including Inkwell & Brew, The Taffy Shop, Frames, Games & Things Unnamed, Outdoor World, Hyk, & Kirks Flyshop. Find Waldo Local is a wonderful way to support the Shop Local movement by increasing foot traffic to a variety of stores. “I remember participating in this years ago with my kids before we owned the bookshop. It was so much fun going around town & looking for Waldo in real life! I loved getting into stores I didn’t frequent & what a fun afternoon it was doing something as a family that didn’t cost us anything but time. I’m hoping this will be something fun for our local families as well as for our tourists.”
Staci
signed by the participating shop. Eagleeyed hunters can also look for Waldo’s special 2024 gold medal hidden in Macdonald Book Shop! Collecting store stamps or signatures at twenty or more businesses will entitle diligent seekers entry into a grand-prize drawing for Waldo books and other prizes, including goodies from For Bare Feet, Flavors of the Rockies, Munchin House, Simply Christmas, The Taffy Shop, Inkwell & Brew, Estes Village, Kind Coffee, and Alteatude. All participants are welcome to attend the celebration party at Macdonald Book Shop on July 31, 2024 from 4-6 p.m.
Martin Handford’s collections of crowd scenes took the world by storm in the late 1980s, and since then the books have held a cherished place on bookstore shelves, in family libraries, and in classrooms around the world. More than 80 million Waldo books have been sold worldwide, and they’ve been translated into over thirty languages.
For more information about hunting for Waldo in Estes Park, call Macdonald Book Shop at 970-586- 3450. To see a map of all participating stores, visit www.indiebound.org.
Take Advantage Of Summer Healthcare Opportunities At EPH
The population of Estes Park swells each summer, as people from all over come to spend weeks or months in our mountain paradise. So many people choose to live here for a season that there is an active Summer Residents Association.
screening and healthcare appointments at EPH while you are in town for the summer,” said Dr. John Knudtson, EPH Radiologist. “We will provide you with top quality ‘big city’ care with ‘small town’ service and fast, accurate results.”
Here are some of the services summer residents and visitors may want to use at EPH:
• DEXA screenings (dual energy X-ray absorptiometry) for bone density
• CT lung screenings
• Skin checks
• Labs
• Specialty Clinic follow-ups for sleep,
Estes Park Health is pleased and proud to serve this population of patients along with our permanent residents.
In fact, EPH can offer many services you may need while you are here. If your physician from somewhere else is a licensed provider and has issued an order for you, those visits and tests can be conducted here.
“Be sure and schedule your annual
heart health, eye check ups
• 3D Mammography
• Colonoscopies
• X-rays
• MRIs
• CTs
• Physical Therapy and Rehabilitation
EPH offers short wait times and convenient service. We are here for you.
Photo Stephanie Abegg
Allenspark's Hilltop Guild Bazaar
Saturday in August belongs 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. And also new will be several tables full of costume jewelry ready to go to new homes.
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 by the Reckless Ramblers duo.
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 everpopular "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 mic will feature Sharon Arms and the local all-female band Three Moose Morning.
Several art vendors will be on hand for the more than 500 people who 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.
Dandelion jelly will be for sale, too, made by Guild volunteers from dandelions picked in the Kelley House front yard.
The Guild is located at 18729 Highway 7 between Lyons and Allenspark. Bright outdoor flags will mark the location. Join us!
Partners Needs Volunteers!
Looking for a way to make a major impact on our community? Partners needs volunteers! Our mission is to empower youth to achieve their full potential, and we are seeking more positive adult role models to help us! If you would like to BE the difference in the life of a local youth and you have time to give, please consider becoming a mentor. Mentors help youth gain confidence, social skills and hope, all while becoming part of our supportive and inspiring community. Visit www.poweredbypartners.org to learn more and sign up!
¡Partners necesita voluntarios!
¿Busca una manera de generar un im-
pacto importante en nuestra comunidad? ¡Partners necesita voluntarios! Nuestra misión es capacitar a los jóvenes para que alcancen su máximo potencial, ¡y estamos buscando modelos adultos más positivos que nos ayuden! Si desea SER la diferencia en la vida de un joven local y tiene tiempo para donar, considere convertirse en mentor. Los mentores ayudan a los jóvenes a ganar confianza, habilidades sociales y esperanza, al mismo tiempo que se convierten en parte de nuestra comunidad inspiradora y de apoyo. ¡Visite www.poweredbypartners.org para obtener más información e inscribirse!
Allenspark Community Church Special Events
The church, located at 16 Washington Street in Allenspark, is pleased to be bringing Joe Uveges to Allenspark for two presentations for the community and surrounding areas.
On Saturday, July 27th, at 9:00 a.m., Joe will lead a mini-conference entitled “Teach Them To Hear Me.” Joe, in addition to being a friend of Pastor Ralph Patrick, is a working musician based out of Colorado Springs where he has resided with his family for almost 36 years. In the world of singer/songwriters, he achieved modest success. He toured fairly extensively, released 9 albums, and
has performed more than 3200 shows, either solo or with his band/duo. His life changed dramatically in the spring of 2016 when his son, Andrew, took his own life, a development that left their entire family (and friend group) devastated. The journey from devastation, through grief and shame, to acceptance, to grateful acceptance and then to mysticism is a story of the miraculous intervention of the Divine into one life. Joe will tell this story, interspersed with songs, with a wide-open heart and a willingness to answer questions.
That evening at 7:00 p.m., Joe will present a musical concert of his compositions as well as some of his favorites from other song writers. There will be a free-will offering. He will also lead the music on Sunday morning, the 28th, at the 10:00 a.m. service.
We invite you to attend any or all of these events - they are open to everyone; no reservations nor tickets are needed.
For more information, call the church at 303-747-2821.
Wendell Morton To Speak At Men On Fire
Saturday, July 13, 8:00 a.m. at the American Legion
Wendell Morton is currently the Executive Director of Men’s Ministry Catalyst (MMC). MMC is a Christ-centered ministry to men that is committed to fulfilling the Great Commission—“to go and make disciples.” Wendell leads this ministry to focus on equipping churches and denominations with biblically based resources, counsel, and services. The goal is to help churches build an engaging ministry to men as well as facilitate church growth. He believes one of the ways this happens is having men come alongside the vision of the pastor, build a dynamic team, create a plan, and execute the model of “each one brings one.” This model is a great way for any local church to grow and help men better understand biblical manhood.
Before MMC, Wendell spent over 23 years in Corporate America. It was there he successfully led Sales Teams as a Senior Vice President at Wells Fargo. He continued to enjoy success while leading sales teams and partnering with multiple Banks as a Senior Leader at Worldpay. The teams worked with small businesses as well as Fortune 500 companies.
Local church ministry has always held a special place in Wendell’s heart. For 13 years, he held positions in local churches including New Hope Community Church in Portland. Prior to serving with Promise Keepers, Wendell was Team Leader for New Hope’s Small Group pastors who facilitated more than 75 community-based groups. He also coordinated Pastor’s Conferences three times a year focusing on
small groups where over 600 people attended.
Wendell served on the core team of Promise Keepers that conducted the National Pastors Conference and served with the National Prayer Team for the more than 1 million men who gathered on the National Mall in Washington DC. Wendell says, “It was an amazing move of God and I was humbled to be part of the team.”
Whether it’s pastoral ministry, previous national ministry with Promise Keepers, or corporate work, God has uniquely positioned Wendell to impact lives. He is passionate about helping people develop or restore personal relationships, to grow spiritually, and expand professionally. Wendell lives in Littleton, CO with his wife Deb and have two adult children.
According to Larry Strong, Founder of Men on Fire, “We’re excited to have Wendell share with our men this Saturday at the American Legion. Wendell brings the same heart and passion for helping men grow in their personal relationship with Christ—so that men can fully embrace God’s calling and purpose for their lives. When this happens, we truly believe men have more potential and capacity to be the husbands, fathers, brothers and leaders God desires us to become.”
Men on Fire is a non-denominational brotherhood of men that meets Saturday’s at the American Legion, 850 N. St. Vrain at 8:00 a.m. They invite all men, regardless of where they’re at on their faith journey, to join them this Saturday and the event is free.
EVICS Family Resource Center Welcomes New Staff
EVICS Family Resource Center is pleased to announce the addition of three new staff members dedicated to enhancing the support and services we provide to families in the Estes Valley. Kylie Myers, Childcare Resource Specialist
Born and raised in Hawaii, Kylie has been savoring every moment of Colorado life for the past eight years, from skiing the slopes in winter to basking in the summer sun and admiring the breathtaking fall colors. As an enrolled Yurok tribe member from Northern California, she cherishes the traditions and values that come with it. Deeply connected to the Estes Valley community, Kylie is proud to be raising her daughter here. She is excited about her new role as the Childcare Resource Specialist at EVICS. With a background in clerical work, customer service, and a passion for data analysis, Kylie is eager to contribute to EVICS' mission of supporting families and children in the Estes Valley. Kylie’s responsibilities include processing tuition assistance applications, building relationships with childcare providers and families, tracking childcare openings, collaborating with Family Advocates for resource access, supporting program development, participating in policy discussions, visiting childcare providers, creating program funding reports, utilizing public speaking for outreach and advocacy, presenting reports to stakeholders.
Celia Parra Bernal, Bilingual Family Advocate (Mental Health)
Hello everyone! I'm thrilled to intro-
duce myself as your new Family Advocate specializing in Mental & Behavioral Health. Originally from Aguascalientes, Mexico, I made my way to the US at the age of three, bringing with me a zest for life that includes running marathons, hiking in breathtaking landscapes, and
getting lost in the pages of a good book. With over a decade of experience spanning education, mental health, chemical dependency, and medical fields, I've had the privilege of working with individuals of all ages—from spirited children to wise elders. My educational journey took me through Cal State Long Beach and USC, equipping me with a solid foundation to support our community's diverse needs. Although I'm originally from sunny San Pedro, CA, I followed my heart to Colorado in 2021 and instantly fell in love with its majestic mountains and welcoming community. Whether at the grocery store, local park, or community event, please feel free to introduce yourself—I can't wait to connect with all the wonderful families in our town and embark on this journey together!
Jessica Campagnola, Bilingual Family Advocate (Early Childhood)
I am from Brazil and have been in the
US for the past ten years. I graduated from Colorado State University in Human Development and Family Studies. I have worked with children in school settings for about eight years, but I was staying home for the past couple of years raising my babies. I have two children, Alice, who is 2.5 years old, and Thales, who is ten months old. I am passionate about working with children and helping families, and I am so excited to be part of the EVICS family.
Celia and Jessica, as Family Advocates, will:
● Provide support to families and children.
● Serve as communicators and connectors between families, EVICS services, and community partners.
● Work within the Family Development program to support all families in the Estes Valley.
For more information about EVICS Family Resource Center and our programs, please visit www.evics.org or contact us at (970) 586-3055.
About EVICS Family Resource Center Vision: Estes Valley is a community where children thrive and families prosper.
Mission: To provide services that strengthen and support children and families.
EVICS Family Resource Center is dedicated to supporting families in Estes Park by providing a variety of resources and services..
Glen Haven Pancake Breakfast Next Weekend
Please join us for our Annual Glen Haven Area Volunteer Fire Department pancake breakfast on July 20th!
Our volunteer firefighters will again be cooking their wonderful breakfast beginning at 7:00 a.m. Afterwards, walk next door to the Town Hall for a silent auction! There will be gift certificates and treasures from businesses and artists from around the community. Don’t forget, dessert isn’t just for after dinner! We will have amazing sweets at our bake sale table for sale.
Smokey the Bear will be with us to celebrate the 80th year of helping to prevent wildfires. Don’t worry, he won’t eat all the pancakes!
The GHAVFD has 20 active firefighters, and three support members that defend approximately 500 structures on over 25,000 acres of forested land. They respond to medical calls, vehicle crashes along County Road 43, as well as assisting other area agencies when called upon.
This year the department wants to con-
tinue the process of upgrading their digital technology by replacing computers, screens, and connected devices. Replacing tires and obtaining low angle rescue gear and vehicle stabilization/rigging for electric vehicle fires is a priority for the department.
The community of Glen Haven is neither a municipality nor a taxing district. GHAVFD is a 501 (C) (3) non-profit Colorado Corporation. All contributions are tax deductible to the extent allowed by law. If you are unable to attend, please consider donating to GHAVFD at P.O. Box 53, Glen Haven, CO 80532. You can also donate to the silent auction by contacting Becky Childs at latchstrng@msn.com.
Thank you to our supporters and sponsors of this event: Bank of Estes Park, Bank of Colorado, Premier Members Credit Union, US Bank, YMCA of the Rockies, Kind Coffee, and EP News. For more information on the breakfast or the Department check out www.ghavfd.org.
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.
Delilah is ready for her new forever home. She came to us in rough shape, she was very thin her coat was a mess and she was pregnant. After having eight beautiful puppies she is spayed and loving being a dog. Delilah has really become a fun loving, dog loving sweet girl. When you look in her eyes you can see all the love she has to give. Delilah weighs 86 pounds is about 6 1/2 and has been around cats. Please consider giving this lady her deserved life.
Maya is about a year old, good-natured and weighs 46 pounds. She is great with other dogs and would make the perfect pet companion for you.
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.
You can make a tax-deductible donation to the Pet Association by sending your check to P.O. Box 4342, Estes Park, CO 80517.
For more information about the Pet Association, please visit petassociationestespark.com.
Peaked Estes Park Cruise Weekend Set For August 23-25
Peaked Automotive Events is thrilled to announce the highly anticipated Peaked Estes Park Cruise Weekend, set to take place from August 23rd to August 25th
This unforgettable weekend promises an exhilarating blend of automotive excellence, scenic cruises, and community camaraderie in the breathtaking setting of Estes Park, Colorado.
Event Highlights:
Date: August 23rd - August 25th
Location: Estes Park, Colorado
Key Activities:
Scenic Cruises through the picturesque landscapes of Estes Park
Showcases of toptier modified and exotic cars
Exclusive PreMeets
Exciting automotive competitions and awards
Peaked Estes Park Cruise Weekend is designed to bring together car enthusiasts from all over, providing a unique platform to display their prized vehicles, connect with like-minded individuals, and create lasting memories.
Events. "Estes Park provides the perfect backdrop for this unique gathering, and we can't wait to see the amazing cars and enthusiastic participants who will join us."
With a backdrop of stunning mountain views and the charming ambiance of Estes Park, this event is set to be a highlight of the summer for automotive aficionados.
Schedule of Events:
Friday:
Arrival and Check-in
Welcome Pre-Meet from 7:30 p.m. to 10:00 p.m. at Cousin Pats
Saturday:
Scenic Cruise 10:30 a.m. - 1:30 p.m.
Pre-Meet presented by Stancewars 6:30 p.m. - 8:30 p.m.
Sunday:
Peaked Estes Park Cruise Weekend Car Show 12 p.m. - 5 p.m.
"We are excited to bring together the automotive community for a weekend of thrilling events, scenic drives, and unforgettable experiences," said Joshua [Last Name], Founder of Peaked Automotive
About Peaked Automotive Events: Peaked Automotive Events is dedicated to creating exceptional automotive experiences that foster community and showcase automotive craftsmanship. With a passion for cars and a commitment to excellence, Peaked hosts a variety of events throughout the year, each designed to bring together car enthusiasts from all walks of life.
For more information and to register for the Peaked Estes Park Cruise Weekend, please visit https://www.peakedentertainment.com/events/estes-parkcruise-weekend, or contact us at Contact@peakedentertainment.com.
Contact: Joshua Kleine Founder, Peaked Automotive Events, Joshua@peakedentertainment.com, www.peakedentertainment.com
Follow us on social media for updates and sneak peeks: Facebook: www.facebook.com/Peaked.co/
Instagram: www.instagram.com/peaked.co/ Don't miss out on the automotive event of the year! Join us for the Peaked Estes Park Cruise Weekend and experience the thrill of the open road, the beauty of Estes Park, and the camaraderie of the automotive community.
Rocco
Delilah
Ghost
Speck
Maya
Goose
2024
EPWGA Results For July 2, 2024
On Tuesday, July 2nd, the EPWGA played a game called “3 Pigs in a Poke.” Each player’s three worst scoring holes were dropped in determining the winners.
1st place – Linda Bowie
2nd place – Johanna Gengler
Tied for 3rd place – Marilyn Soby and Karyn Saucier
Tied for 5th place – Carrie Logan and Tied for 7th place – Callie Russell and Claudia Irwin 9th place – Amy Klein
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!
EPWGA Results For July 9, 2024
The EPWGA players stuck it out through intermittent rain on Tuesday, July 9th, to play “Par 4 a Day.” This fun game counted only the net scores on the par 4 holes to determine the winners.
1st place – Cindy Minier
2nd place – Carolyn Bible
Tied for 3rd place – Carrie Logan, Colleen Logan and Twyla Moraczewski
Estes Park Men’s Golf Association Results For July 8, 2024
6th place – Jennifer Gergen
Tied for 7th place – Judi Cunningham, Ruth Moser, Calle Russell Marianne Casey and Dot Dorman
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!
Summer Residents Assoc. Enter Ukelele Band In Rodeo Parade
The Summer Residents’ Association entered a 10 piece ukelele band playing western songs band in the Rodeo Parade. The Summer Residents’ Association is made up of people who have their primary home outside of Estes Park and come here for the summer. A very wide range of activities is offered which in-
cludes three levels of hiking, golf, pickleball, bridge, book club, dinners with a program and breakfasts. SRA continues to welcome new members.
For more information visit our website at SRA-ep or call one of our co-membership chairs: Jane Wright at 315-9940645 or John Vorreiter at 408-730-8300.
By: Judi Smith
Hard To Recycle
Single-stream recycling is designed to process vast amounts of very similar, very repetitive products. The large majority of these products are used as packaging because we all purchase, use, and discard packaging without another thought. The great quantities produced make disposal a dedicated, sometimes overwhelming project. Single stream is “easy" for the public. Everything goes into one basket. When it gets to the MRF (Material Recovery Facility), it travels on a “line" that “automatically" sorts it by size, weight, and shape, sometimes color. The intent is to weed out the contamination (things not recognized by the software). That contamination is generally sent to the landfill. It is a good system except – sometimes that contamination could actually be recycled elsewhere.
Today, It is amazing what you can find in attempts to recycle. There are many individualized programs of various sorts that each take ONE item. Simply typing the item and the word “recycle” into your favorite search engine will result in a plethora of answers, some good and some bad. Recently, I received a request for a way to recycle children's car seats. Of course, if a seat is still in good useable condition, has not weakened from use, is not subject to recall, and has not been in an accident – then the answer is to offer it to a young family for future use – but only IF. On-line to find the answer, I discovered that car seats now have an expiration date. (My youngest grandchild is 20. I have not updated a car seat in some time.) … Most options that I found explained how to dismantle the carseat, stripping the cushion and dismantling the metal. That sounds like a lot of work. … Then I discovered a simple answer: Target has been recycling car seats since 2016. Down Valley again. Call ahead to be sure of the individual store. Target will do the breakdown and be sure that the metal, the plastic, and the fabric/stuffing go to an ecologically sound recycler. AND, if you are still in need of baby things like strollers, carseats, etc., Target will give you a discount coupon.
Some collection yards go farther than simply recycling common packaging. Some collection yards handle “Hard to Recycle" items that most single stream recycling cannot handle, largely because these items cannot be sorted by machine. Eco-cycle has a Center for Hard to Recycle Material (CHaRM). Timberline and Loveland both accept and recycle some Hard to Recycle items. Of course, these locations are all Down Valley. However, up here in Estes Park we have several businesses (We call them Planet Partners.) that collect individual items for use or for independent disposal. First of all, there are the thrift shops: Elizabeth Guild, Village Thrift Shop, and Lizzie's Boutique. You can (at Planet Partner locations) redirect books, DVDs, musical CDs,
grocery items, pet food, old tattered blankets, pet equipment and toys, brightly colored napkins and tablecloths, art supplies, and shipping and wrapping supplies. Additionally, you can keep refrigerators and freezers, plastic bags, film, and wrap; and mattresses out of the landfill. For details about Planet Partners reference the www.estesrecycles.org website maintained by volunteers from League of Women Voters Community Recycling Committee.
There is also an annual opportunity to recycle some hard to recycle items including electronics and scrap metal, microwaves (no glass trays), CFL lightbulbs, and bicycle tires and tubes. This year the date of Estes Recycles Day is August 10 from 9 a.m. to 12 noon. Paper will also be shredded at the event for a donation to the Rotary Scholarship Fund. The details on the collections, what is included and what is prohibited, what costs and what is free, is available at the above website. If you cannot attend on August 10th or if you cannot wait that long to clear out your closets, many items can be delivered to the Down Valley collection yards. (Additional fees may apply.) Loveland, Timberline, Eco-cycle, and Larimer County take a much wider span of recyclables than the collection yard in Estes can handle. These websites each maintain an A-Z list advising what to do with items no longer wanted. These lists offer options located in Boulder and Larimer counties, both governmental and private businesses who accept reusables or recyclables. Among these locations, they collect and recycle a wealth of items. (Whether or not they accept things from Estes depends upon their space and their funding. That can change. Allenspark recently had to forego accepting contributions from Estes because they ran out of space.)
Each of the four locations varies in what they accept. We, located in Estes Park, are in the enviable position of being somewhat equal distant from all those businesses that strive to improve our disposal system. These locations offer an A to Z list, some of which include things accepted by private businesses. Check the individual A-Z list of the location you prefer. Of course, If that location does not recycle the item you have in mind, consider trying the others. If you find a location that does not accept from Estes, please let me know.
Please join us for a Celebration of Life for Jeryca Phelps on Saturday, August 3rd at Rocky Mountain Pathways Ranch located at 15747 State Highway 7 in Allenspark, CO from 3-7 p.m.
We will have an outdoor ceremony in the Upper Meadow followed by a reception down in the lodge.
The family is asking your assistance in passing this information along to anyone you know who would want to attend. We will post on numerous Facebook walls and local papers, but some folks might not have access to these.
Your help in getting the word out would be greatly appreciated.
Are We United Or Untied?
By: Brian Schaffer
Celebrating American Independence Day is such a wonderful time for Americans everywhere to reflect upon the rich heritage we have today, because of the diligent work of those who came before us. The Declaration of Independence was written and signed by courageous leaders who loved their neighbors and took action to establish the United States of America.
Here are a few quotes from three of the signers:
"We hold these truths to be self-evident, that all men are created equal, that they are endowed by their Creator with certain unalienable Rights, that among these are Life, Liberty and the pursuit of Happiness." - Thomas Jefferson (1743–1826)
"I am well aware of the toil and blood and treasure it will cost us to maintain this declaration, and support and defend these states. Yet through all the gloom I see the rays of ravishing light and glory. I can see that the end is worth all the means. This is our day of deliverance."John Adams (1735–1826)
"We must all hang together, or assuredly we shall all hang separately." - Benjamin Franklin (1706–1790)
The Founders of America were united in their approach to hang together and accomplish something they could never do on their own. I believe this value of being united and working together is still alive in our communities, but at the same time is also being attacked at every corner. We must stand up and fight with
fervor to maintain the spirit of being United, or surely we will be divided.
“United we Stand, Divided we Fall” was spoken by a few people you might recognize such as George Washington, Benjamin Franklin, Patrick Henry and Abraham Lincoln. They believed wholeheartedly in being United and pursued this until their dying day.
I would like to invite you to be United with us at Crossroads Ministry as we stand up for our neighbors in need, and take action to ensure no one goes hungry or find themselves struggling to survive in our community. We value our many partnerships across the Estes Valley, the Front Range and across our great nation. We believe it’s good to not judge someone until you’ve walked a mile in their shoes. It’s a familiar, but very significant saying for each of us to take to heart. In my many years of tying shoes, I’ve discovered that loose shoes fall off, so make sure they’re tightly secured or they will come Untied. At Crossroads, we do all that we can to keep people from being tripped up from something as simple as an untied shoe lace. Have you ever noticed that the words Untied and United have the same letters, but convey a totally different message. Staying United takes some effort and intentionality. Just as you can’t expect a shoe lace to stay tied day after day without checking it, so we as individuals must work together daily as a United force or we will eventually find ourselves Untied. United we stand, Untied we fall!
Join the Magnificent Mission of the Stanley Home Museum and Education Center!
Seeking
an
Inspiring Executive Director
Our Executive Director represents the Museum and Education Center to our community and oversees all of its operations
The Executive Director must have outstanding administration, organizational, people and computer skills
Compensation is $ 65,000 – 75,000 depending on experience
To apply, or for more information please email ExecutiveDirector@StanleyHomeMuseum.org
Or contact Danny Gigax, Board Chair, at 636-448-0276
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. With housing options available.
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. Also, resumes are encouraged.
Position open until July 26, 2024.
The Estes Park Housing Authority is an equal opportunity employer.
Now hiring
(Must live in Estes Park)
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
Experience with marketing or sales a plus | Customer service experience required
NOW HIRING!
Retail Clerks
Seeking team players to work at
Rocky Mountain Conservancy Nature Stores
Weekends & some holidays required in Estes Park Visitor Center & Rocky Mountain National Park
$20-20.50/hr
Seasonal: May-October Full-time or Part-time
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.
j o b s .ymc a r o c kies o rg
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
$20/$21 hr DOE
Apply on line with resume https://app.joinhomebase.com/loc/ skyrun-rm/job/guestservices.rep
o , 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 aro c kies or g
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
Housekeeping Position
Available immediately, FT/YO housekeeping position at Castle Mt. Lodge. Join our driven and passionate staff for $18-20/hour plus $1,500 signing bonus payable after completion of 1st year. Seasonal Bonus as well.
Apply in person at 1520 Fall River Rd,Estes Park, CO
MAIL / PACKAGE DELIVERY
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. Part time, 2 or 3 days per week.
Call Robin at 970-232-5514
Join Our Team!
Teller
Full or part-time
Ideal candidates will have prior cash handling and customer service experience. Additional requirements include attention to detail, strong computer and problem solving skills, and the ability to work in a fast-paced team oriented environment. Year round position with excellent benefits including medical, dental, 401(K) and paid time off. $19-$21/hour.
Please apply at :
Marketi ng a nd CoMM un iCatio n s d ireCtor
This position helps shape the YMCA of the Rockies’ brand image while driving strategic initiatives and fostering innovation while maximizing occupancy and revenue through overnight lodge and cabins stays at both Estes Park Center and Snow Mountain Ranch. This position pays $67,000 - $80,000/year with full benefits, discounted childcare, generous PTO/vacation, participation in the YMCA Retirement Fund, and many more perks.
NOW HIRING!
Front Desk/Operations
Friendly customer serviceoriented personality with attention to detail. Team player who will assist with multiple departments. Full time, yearround. Weekend work is necessary. $20.00 to $22.00 per hour DOE plus $1.00 per hour bonus May through October.
Apply at, mail or email resume to: Fawn Valley Inn, 2760 Fall River Road, Estes Park, CO 80517 Email: Jamie@RockyMtnResorts.com
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
Fiber Technician
Journey Lineworker
Mechanic I-III
Police Officer I - III
Street Equipment Specialist
The status of applications will be communicated via e-mail. By choice, the Town of Estes Park is an Equal Employment Opportunity Employer.
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
assista n t Ho u sekeePi ng d ireCtor
Responsible for overseeing the daily operations of the Housekeeping Department at YMCA of the Rockies – Estes Park Center, a family retreat and conference center located outside Rocky Mountain National Park. This position requires supervising seasonal housekeeping staff and overseeing the housekeeping office and daily schedule. This is a full-time, year-round position paying $55,000 - $63,300/year with generous PTO/vacation, health benefits, discounted childcare, YMCA of the Rockies family membership and more.
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. or g
JOIN OUR TEAM!
YMCa oF tHe roCkies
Homes
8-1-24 In town House
Share. Private 2BR, 1B, Kitchen, W/D, LV Room w/gas fireplace, Fenced yard, $2300 + share utilities, 1 Mo Deposit & 1 Yr Lease, pet negotiable, 970-290-2695
Condos
2 bdr 1 bth NEWLY RENOVATED $1850 a month NO PETS NO SMOKING For more information text - 720-495-6083
1 BD, 3/4 BA, some pets OK. $1500/mo., Call 970-481-5188
Apartments
2 BDRM 1 BA, ex cond. $1,300 mo +elec. 1st & last mo +$1,000 sec dep. Basic cable, W/D incl. Quiet area. NO Smoking, NO Pets. ref req 720-838-5724
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
Mobile Homes
Sites available for RV & Other Vehicle Storage in Estes Park. Call 970-412-9672
Motorcycles
2012 Harley Davidson Sportster XL 1200c, 13,500 miles $5500 John 970.227.2041
RVs
2015 Roadtrek 210
Popular RV Trader value $64,625-$74,000
Just 48,200 highway miles. make offer contact email at Kiotepro@centurylink.net
2011 Heartland Toy Hauler 3010 5th wheel trailer for sale. Excellent condition. Call 970-481-6452
Trailers/Campers
Heavy Duty Utility Trailer w/ ARE Topper. Secure, anti-theft locking system. Great for landscaping or construction. $2,750.00 970-667-7933
Services
PUT YOUR BABY IN THE CORNER! EXOTIC & SPORTS & MUSCLE & COLLECTIBLE CAR STORAGE. LIMITED SPACE, TEMPERATURE CONTROLLED. Located in Estes Park: CALL OR TEXT 941-421-9300
Sewing/Alterations
Remixed Custom Sewing Services. NEW LOCATION! Small Furniture, Restoration, Cushions and Industrial Repair. Call for appointment 970-492-5446
Piano Tuning
Susan Novy, local piano tuner. Call for appt. 577-1755 www.estesparkpiano tuner.com
MISCELLANEOUS
Business
Estes Park Historic Walking Tours. EPHWTours.com for tickets $15.00 per person. Tours begin at the Enos Mills statue in Bond Park. Please check in 10 minutes before the tour begins.
Equipment
Canon 200-400 F-4 with 1.4 Built in Extender. $7500 Call 970-481-5977
Misc.
Bighorn Ram Mount $1200 Call 970-481-5977
Homes
Private, Cozy Bungalow located in a private setting; just walking distance to town. Enjoy this home; full-time, weekends or for summer vacations. Two bedrooms (1 being non-conforming due to absence of a closet), One Full Bath and a 1/2 bath for the Primary Bedroom. Large Living room with exposed trusses and light from the East and West. Enjoy the patio that overlooks the spacious lot with ample parking, a bunk house/office with electricity & Heat (124 sqft) and a garage/work area (324 sqft). Estes Park Water and Electricity; Xcel Natural Gas and Estes Park Sanitation District for wastewater. Updated Roof; Washer and Dryer hookups. The Group/ Chad Brent/ 970-290-4709
Commercial
Commercial Spaces
Garage
Sales
Community Sidewalk Sale
Apartment Locations:
Talons Pointe 1715 Redtail Hawk Drive
Lone Tree 1310 Manford Ave
Saturday July 13 & Sunday July 14
7:00am-12:00pm
Please No Early Birds!
840 Old Range Dr 8-2 Fri/ Sat Tools, Furniture, Battery Charger, Lawn Mower, Gas Grill, Jumper Cables, Spotting Scope Outfit, Game Camera, Household Items, Bedding, Vintage Items and Tons of Misc. All priced to sell!
625 Freeland Ct., Estes SAT 7/13 7:30-3:30, SUN 7/14 8-2
Hse plants, knick knacks, ktchn wares, military btns, star wars fig, some kid things sml furn, etc.
Estate Sales
ESTATE/MOVING SALE
SALES
Garage
Sales
GARAGE SALE
Sat., July 13, 8am-2pm: Mtn. Gate Condos, 315 Bighorn Dr. Men’s & Women’s bicycles, Tools, Clothes, Generator, Home decor, Sm. pet crate, Tile saw, 4 Bentwood chairs, Teak table, Queen Quilt, Paper shredder.
Need to have one, but seems overwhelming. We do the work, you make the $. Local, Affordable, References. CALL JUDI 970-215-5548
ESTATE SALE
July 12 & 13 Fri 8-1, Sat 8-2
Follow Judi’s Signs to: 2035 Uplands Circle (off Fish Creek)
Telescope, Patio Swing, Grill, Lumber, Barn Wood, Flooring, Camping & Hiking Gear, Tents, Car Top Carriers, Rafts, Shell Collection, Dressers, Desks, Bookcases, Men & Women’s Clothing, Books, Cedar Chest, Linens, Kitchen Items, Stroller, Smart TV’s, Stereo, Books, Vintage Toys & More.
PALISADE PEACHESChuck and Kathy Young of Desert Edge Farm will be returning with peaches starting Saturday, July 13. We lost our previous spot at the old Rambos Liquors, but will be right down the street thanks to our new friends at Estes Park Mountain Shop, 2050 Big Thompson Ave. See you there! You can call us at 303-437-4855 or email us at desertedgefarms@ gmail.com.
Help needed to get sentimental artwork returned. On June 28, an unfortunate mistake took place. There was a garage sale held at a home on Dry Gulch Road and the homeowner’s late husband’s (Ron Ball) original drawings were mistakenly taken during the sale, instead of the prints that were available for purchase. The prints that were taken were framed pieces (that were not for sale) that have very special sentimental meaning to Ron’s widow. If anyone knows the whereabouts of these drawings and frames, please get them back to her at 2190 Dry Gulch Road. Thank you!
PROFESSIONAL BUSINESS BUILDER
Arboristry Tree Service/ Removal and
More! Chris Lowe 970-815-4252
northernarboristry@gmail.com
Gale Baniak - Owner/Barber Racheal Giroux - Barber
970-586-2000 • 415 W. Elkhorn Ave. 100 feet North of the Bighorn Restaurant No Appointment Necessary (for straight razor shaves only)
