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Get excited, because the farmers market is coming to Estes early this year!
Starting on April 17th and running through May 29th, you can find vegetables, coffee, baked goods, and more in the Estes Park Mountain Shop parking lot!
Each Thursday from 8 a.m.-1 p.m., you can enjoy this one-stop shop of local vendors in our convenient location away from the downtown traffic! While you're there, stop in and see all the new spring merchandise they've been getting in! This is a great way to help support local businesses during the shoulder season.
So far, the following vendors will be in attendance:
Eden Valley Farm Redemption Coffee In A Pickle
Twisted T's Artisan Bakery
Esmerelda's Tamale House
Sweet Beaver Caramels
We look forward to seeing you there!
Free Household Battery Recycling Event Wednesday, April 30
The Town of Estes Park is again partnering with the Larimer County Household Hazardous Waste Program (HHW) to host a residential battery collection on Wednesday, April 30, 2025, from 10:30 a.m. – 2 p.m., at the Estes Valley Library (335 E. Elkhorn Ave.).
All batteries contain potentially haz ardous materials, and res idents are invited to dispose of qualifying batteries at this HHW event.
Participation is free for Larimer County residents.
used in cameras, cell phones, and cordless power tools, and those embedded in tablet computers.
This inclusive program is an educational and service opportunity for Estes Park residents to responsibly recycle small residential batteries. Larimer County will accept only the following types of batteries:
Alkaline (includes magnesium, mercury, silver oxide, and carbon zinc) –This is the most common household battery. Examples include the various sized batteries used in flashlights, hearing aids, radios, and toys.
Rechargeable (includes lithium-ion, nickel-cadmium, and nickel-metal hydride) – These batteries are labeled as rechargeable. Examples include batteries
Lithium (includes AA and AAA marked as lithium or CR, and coin cell) –These batteries are labeled as primary/metal or lithium. Examples include batteries used in calculators, watches, and small electronics. Only batteries will be collected, so please remove them from their devices. For batteries not featured on the list above, Larimer County will provide information on disposal and recycling. Examples of batteries that cannot be accepted include automotive/lead acid batteries used in cars and boats; large output lithium-ion batteries used in e-bikes, hoverboards, and electric vehicles batteries; damaged, defective, or recalled (DDR) batteries; THC vape devices; and batteries that are generated from business operations. For more information about the household battery collection, contact Linda Hammett, Hazardous Waste Manager (lhammett@larimer.org(970)498-5771).
Explore Volunteer Opportunities That Support The Community
In 2024, 283 volunteers gave 18,289 hours to Town of Estes Park advisory boards, committees and services – a value of $612,499 and a significant savings for taxpayers. Mayor Gary Hall commented, “Without volunteers, the world would turn much more slowly. We have the great fortune in Estes Park to have many volunteers who help power our town. We all know how special a mountain paradise we have up
here. It’s made more special by having so many people in town with available time and a giving spirit, who provide volunteer assistance for so many good services and causes.”
Interested individuals can learn about volunteering for the Town, including program and appointed positions, as well as fill out an online application at www.estes.org/volunteering.
thesparklingspa@gmail.com
Fungus Linked To White Nose Syndrome Detected In Rocky Mountain National Park
Laboratory tests conducted by the U.S. Geological Survey (USGS) have confirmed that the fungus Pseudogymnoascus destructans (Pd) has been positively detected in bats found in the Holzwarth Historic Site area located on the west side of Rocky Mountain National Park. This is the first confirmed detection of Pd in Grand County, Colorado.
Pd is an invasive fungus that causes white-nose syndrome (WNS), a fatal disease that impacts bats. This fungus can spread rapidly, primarily through bat-tobat contact.
WNS does not cause illness in humans, but humans are able to spread the fungus to new places. To protect yourselves and conserve bat populations, we recommend visitors:
Report dead/injured bats to park personnel. To protect yourself and bats, never touch or pick up a bat. Although WNS does not cause illness in humans, a small percentage of bats can be infected with other dangerous diseases, such as rabies.
Decontaminate. Ensure you properly decontaminate your gear and outerwear after visiting a cave or other bat habitat. Earlier this year, swabs taken from bats in the Holzwarth area of the park found a probability of Pd. Following this probable result, National Park Service wildlife biologists at the park collected bat guano from locations in the Holzwarth Historic Site area for follow up testing to verify the results. The results of these tests have
positively detected Pd.
Any new detection of Pd is worrisome because bats are vital for healthy ecosystems. Rocky Mountain National Park is home to nine known species of bats, five of which have been found living in areas above 11,000 feet. WNS has been blamed for millions of bat deaths nationwide since its initial detection in New York State in 2006. In July 2022, the first confirmed case of WNS was reported in Southeastern Colorado. Pd and WNS have also been confirmed in Larimer County, Colorado.
Colorado Parks and Wildlife and the USGS, along with U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service and National Park Service, have been conducting WNS surveys for over a decade, monitoring bats for presence of Pd. Colorado is home to 19 native bat species, at least 13 of which may be susceptible to this disease. Colorado's native bats are all insect eaters and use various habitat types across the state. They are most active during the summer months and spend the winter either hibernating in underground roosts throughout the state or migrating south. The National Park Service and other state and federal agencies will continue to monitor bats throughout Colorado.
To learn more about White Nose Syndrome and how it impacts bats, visit https://www.whitenosesyndrome.org/
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 March 30th, 2025, the Estes Valley Fire Protection District
(EVFPD) responded to 10 calls for service. This included:
• Emergency Medical (assist EPH): 7
• Alarm Activation: 1
• Odor Investigation: 1
• Gas Leak: 1
www.estesvalleyfire.org
www.EPBigfoot.com
Estes Park Bigfoot Days April 25-26, 2025
Estes Park Bigfoot Days returns celebrating all things Squatchy. The weekend kicks-off with a ticketed dinner at the Holiday Inn on Friday, April 25 with Bigfoot Television Celebrities, continues with a free festival in Bond Park on Saturday, April 26 from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m., and concludes with a Saturday evening Sasquatch movie premiere at the Historic Park theatre at 7 p.m. The festival includes talks from the Bigfoot TV Celebrities, the Sasquatch Outpost podcast, live music, inflatable games, craft and food vendors, a Bigfoot calling contest, Bigfoot sighting stories, a short documentary film, a Bigfoot TV series premier and much more!
The Bigfoot BBQ is Friday, April 25, 2025 from 6 p.m. to 9 p.m. at the Holiday Inn Estes Park. This Bigfoot-themed dinner will feature food, drinks, music, photos, and mingling with our Bigfoot
Celebrities. Tickets are $90. For more information and to purchase tickets visit www.EPBigfoot.com.
Wrapping up Bigfoot Days on Saturday, April 26, 2025, will be a Hollywood style red-carpet film premier of The Sasqualogist, a film by Joseph Granda. This touching kind-hearted adventure follows a seasoned researcher and his young protégé as they track Sasquatch through the Colorado Rockies, only to discover the shocking truth behind what Sasquatch is, and who they really are.
The Estes Park premiere of this feature film will be held at the Historic Park Theatre at 7 p.m. There will be a Q&A session with the stars and director, poster giveaway, autographs and merchandise, and a “Walk Like Bigfoot” contest with prizes. Admission is free. View the trailer: https://www.thesasqualogist.com.
Cliff Barackman Finding Bigfoot
Russell Accord Expedition Bigfoot
Dr. Mireya Mayor Expedition Bigfoot
The Chamber And Economic Development & Workforce Council Host Workshop On Critical & Strategic Thinking For Business
By: Estes Chamber of Commerce
The Chamber and Economic Development & Workforce Council are bringing lauded educator Bill Welter to Estes on April 21st for a workshop exploring some of the tools and techniques that can be used by small business owners to enhance their critical and strategic thinking. The workshop will be held from 8:30 a.m. – 10:30 a.m. at the Estes Valley Community Center Chiquita Room.
“Industries and marketplaces evolve in an amoral sense, neither good nor bad; they just evolve,” Welter said. “The challenge for business leaders is to keep up with the pace of this evolution or risk becoming irrelevant and the work involved with keeping up with business evolution is found in a cycle that we refer to as the Sense-Response Cycle (SRC).”
In the workshop, Welter will deepdive into the underlying skill sets for planning and executing against the interconnected and repeating phases of critical and strategic thinking that go into maintaining and expanding business. Participants can look forward to learning about the 4-phases, which include:
• Sense the signals of tomorrow: Understand the challenge of “thinking across time” and the five forms of surprises that can impact any organization. Explore the impact of events “on the edge of the radar screen” and the impact of these events moving rapidly to the center.
• Make sense of the signals: Focus on components of critical thinking and apply them to your goals while considering the important signals of the future.
• Decide on a course of action: Blend decision wisdom, risk in the “yellow zone,” and an organizing tool found in the “Blue Ocean” work of Kim and Mauborgne.
• Act and Learn: Address key project weak-points and the foundation thinking and actions needed for supplying the capabilities and capacity needed for success.
At the conclusion of the two-hour working session, participants will be able to:
• Describe the actual work associated with the phrase “critical and strategic thinking.”
• Have a set of tools they can use to become better, organized strategic thinkers.
• Know how and why many strategic
plans fail to deliver expected results.
• Have an approach to improve their critical and strategic thinking.
Those interested in attending should pre-register on the Chamber’s website: https://business.esteschamber.org/events/details/critical-strategic-thinkingwith-bill-welter-12153
Get to know Bill Welter, our facilitator:
Bill is a consulting-educator with over 50 years of experience across military service (USMC), engineering, business consulting and education. He is a founding Principal of MindPrep Resource Center, where he helps middle managers and business leaders enhance their thinking and leadership skills through writing, workshops, facilitation and coaching.
Bill has authored six books, including The Prepared Mind of a Leader (2006), Rethink, Reinvent, Reposition (2010), and Pragmatic Strategist Workbook (2022), covering topics from critical thinking to strategic execution. He has served clients in diverse industries such as aerospace, banking, healthcare and retail.
Bill holds a degree in Socio-Technical Systems Engineering from the University of Chicago and an MBA from DePaul University.
Submitted
by Joshua Leeds
For eight years, Estes Valley has been our home. My commitment to our community's safety drives my candidacy for the EVFPD Board. I aim to support our incredible volunteer firefighters, who are true heroes, by ensuring our fire services are the best they can be.
With family ties to firefighting and professional experience in title insurance, I un-
Our Home, Our Safety: Elect Joshua Leeds To The Estes Valley Fire Protection District (EVFPD) Board
derstand the importance of both safety and affordability. I will advocate for the connection between fire mitigation and lower homeowners insurance rates, a crucial issue for our residents.
As your board member, I pledge transparency, unbiased decision-making, and responsible stewardship of your tax dollars. I will always prioritize the best interests of Estes Valley.
On May 6, please vote Joshua Leeds. Let's work together for a safer Estes Valley.
Rabbit, Rabbit, Rabbit
By: Deena Sveinsson
I always look forward to the start of a new month.
It isn’t because that is when my mortgage is due, or I get to flip to the next page on my bunny calendar. It is because I get to renew my luck for the month by uttering three words when I first wake up: “Rabbit, rabbit, rabbit.”
You may be thinking, silly rabbit. Why say this? Don’t you have your two bratty rabbits, Jackson and Cooper, downstairs waiting to be fed?
The saying is a superstition that is believed to bring good luck for the month. It must be said before any other words on the first day of the month. If you forget, according to the superstition, plan on a month of bad luck.
My husband always tells me that if I didn’t have bad luck, I would have no luck at all. With his slightly odd sense of humor, he is saying it as a joke. However, the truth is, he is actually right on the money.
So, since I need all the luck I could get, I started following this hare-brained superstition.
Some say that if you forget to say “Rabbit, rabbit, rabbit” the proper way, you could redeem yourself by saying “Black rabbit” just before you go to sleep.
The Origins Of Rabbit, Rabbit, Rabbit
There are different variations of the superstition such as “Rabbit, Rabbit,” “White Rabbit,” “Rabbits,” or “Bunny, Bunny.”
In many cultures throughout the world, rabbits are a common symbol of good luck and prosperity. The exception is France, where it is taboo to mention a rabbit on a ship for fear of sinking.
According to the Farmer’s Almanac, the exact origins aren’t quite known but believed to have been inspired by Alice in Wonderland. Remember the White Rabbit?
In the early 1900s, an English periodical Notes and Queries was the first written record of the phrase when two young girls said “Rabbits!” on the first day of each month. This or a variation also appeared in many other written works. These expressions quickly hopped into people’s vocabulary.
Many public figures practiced this superstition including President Franklin Delano Roosevelt and Gilda Radner of Saturday Night Live. Actress Sarah Jessica Parker has been saying “Rabbit, rabbit” for over 25 years.
Today, these expressions are still said by many people hoping for a month of good luck and prosperity.
Now let’s say it… “Rabbit, Rabbit, Rabbit.”
Photos by Deena Sveinsson, deenasveinssonphotography.com
Estes Park Volksmarch
Saturday, July 12, 8 a.m.-2 p.m. The first-ever traditional volksmarch in Estes Park. Follow the directions over a 5km or 10km route featuring the highlights of Estes Park: Riverwalk, Stanley Hotel, Lake Estes, and more. Kid and pet friendly. Falconwanderers.org, my,ava.org.
TUESDAY
Hours: Hours: Mon-FRI Mon-FRI 3-9pm 3-9pm Post 119 DINER & BAR HOURS DINER & BAR HOURS
Always open to the Always open to the public! public!
850 N Saint Vrain Ave Estes Park, CO 80517 970-586-6118 | www.esteslegion.org
Weekly Happenings Weekly Happenings
WEDNESDAY
MONDAY FRIDAY MARGARITAS $6/PINT. TACOS $4/EA. Bingo 6PM. Fish & Chips Special $14.
Cheeseburger & any draft beer $12.
THURSDAY Kids eat free. 12 & under off the kids menu.
~3-5PM HAPPY HOUR - FREE BILLIARDS ~
QUEEN OF HEARTS JACKPOT THIS WEEK JACKPOT THIS WEEK $500
New hours of operation Starting April 14th M-W 3-9pm Th-Sat 11-9pm Sun 11-6pm
TAVERN MUSIC LINE UP toNIGHT! sKIP NEILSON & KAREN NICHOLSON 6-8PM 4/18 Jason Lenz
CHECK OUT OUR 2025 LINE UP ON OUR WEBSITE OR SCAN THE QR CODE ESTESLEGION.ORG ESTESLEGION.ORG
Veterans Assistance Wed 9-2 Legal Assistance 1st Thurs/mo 5-7pm live music. queen of hearts DRAWING 7pm.
One Hour with Jesus
Estes Park Aviation Club Tales From A Retired Southwest Pilot
Please join us at 450 Valley Road Saturday mornings from 10am to 11am Children welcome. Check website for answers to her questions. https://estesparkco.adventistchurch.org
The Estes Park Aviation Club meeting this month is on Wednesday, April 16th, starting at 6:00 p.m., in the Hondius Room of the Estes Valley Library. Our program will be a talk by club president Stan Osborne about his 22year career as a Southwest pilot. You will learn lots of fascinating facts about this remarkable airline, as well as the lifestyle and ins and outs of a commercial flying job.
Stan and his wife Kathye have lived in Estes Park since 2016. Stan is a native of Denver and a '73 grad of the Air Force Academy. He attended pilot training at Vance AFB in Enid, Oklahoma and then remained at Vance as a T-37 instructor pilot. During this assignment he met and married his wife of 49 years, a freshly graduated high school teacher from Phillips University.
The next move was back to Enid, OK where Stan instructed in the T-38 Talon, the Air Force’s advanced jet trainer. What followed was a flying position at Headquarters Air Training Command near San Antonio, where the mission was standardization and evaluation of all T-38 training operations throughout the Air Force. Finally, Stan served as a T-38 Squadron Commander at Reese AFB, Lubbock, TX, a unit of some 50 instructor pilots and 100 students going through the rigors of advanced jet flight training.
After four years at Reese and 21 years active duty, Lt. Col. Osborne retired from the Air Force in 1994 and was hired by Southwest Airlines. The Osborne family, now five in strength with a young daughter added to the mix (now a Southwest flight attendant) remained in Lubbock for over 21 more years, while Stan commuted, at various times, to eight of the nine Southwest crew bases for work. He upgraded to Captain in 2000, and in 2016, six months after moving here, was retired from Southwest with 22 years of service flying the line.
Next was a fighter assignment flying the F-15 Eagle at Holloman AFB near Alamogordo, NM, followed by a oneyear remote tour in South Korea doing staff work. Despite the hardships, Kathye and their two little boys came to Korea for most of the year. Next was a return to Alamogordo where Stan continued flying the F-15 as an instructor,
Stan has flown over 1300 hours in the T-37, 1000+ hours in the F-15 Eagle, another 1300+ hours in the T-38, and nearly 17,000 hours in Southwest’s Boeing 737s.
The public is invited to attend as usual, so come a bit early and stay a bit late to swap stories with other local space and aviation enthusiasts.
Stan with daughter Katelyn.
If you didn’t carry a poem with you yesterday, you missed Poem in Your Pocket Day 2025. Each year during National Poetry Month we are encouraged to carry a poem with us on Poem in Your Pocket Day. We can keep it in our breast pocket close to our hearts, or on our phones so it comes out when our phones do. We can hand out copies to our friends— or to strangers—read our selected poem aloud to a group or to the person sitting next to us (or to the dog), or we can simply take it from our pocket and read it silently throughout the day.
Joan S. shared virtually with me a poem on Poem in Your Pocket Day. The author, Ada Limón (1976 – ), was named the 24th Poet Laureate of the United States by the Librarian of Congress in 2022. This made her the first Latina to be Poet Laureate of the U.S.
As I read this poem I wonder, who hasn’t looked up into the inky black expanse of night and wondered about the stars and planets, the vastness of our universe among endless universes? Who hasn’t stopped to be still in the natural beauty surrounding us, feeling united with those we share it with? Who hasn’t watched a single drop of rain roll down a window, catch up to another drop, swell and race faster down the pane? Each of these experiences is pure mystery and miracle.
In Praise of Mystery: A Poem for Europa
Arching under the night sky inky with black expansiveness, we point to the planets we know, we
pin quick wishes on stars. From earth, we read the sky as if it is an unerring book of the universe, expert and evident.
Still, there are mysteries below our sky: the whale song, the songbird singing its call in the bough of a wind-shaken tree.
We are awesome creatures of constant awe, curious at beauty, at leaf and blossom, at grief and pleasure, sun and shadow.
And it is not darkness that unites us, not the cold distance of space, but the offering of water, each drop of rain,
each rivulet, each pulse, each vein. O second moon, we, too, are made of water, of vast and beckoning seas.
We, too, are made of wonders, of great and ordinary loves, of small invisible worlds, of a need to call out
through the dark.
Another U.S. Poet Laureate (from 2004 to 2006), Ted Kooser (1939 – ), is one of my favorite poets. I like him because his poetry is relatable, but also because he lives in a very small town outside of my hometown of Lincoln, Nebraska and sometimes I have seen him at my favorite coffee shop, The Mill, in downtown Lincoln when I am there visiting. Here is one of his poems:
A Happy Birthday
This evening, I sat by an open window and read till the light was gone and the book was no more than a part of the darkness.
I could easily have switched on a lamp, but I wanted to ride this day down into night, to sit alone and smooth the unreadable page with the pale gray ghost of my hand.
When I have seen Ted Kooser at The Mill, sitting with others (probably other university professors), I have tried to observe him from a couple of tables away without being obvious.
“So this is how a celebrity poet behaves,” I have thought. He “behaves” just like anyone else in Go Big Red football territory, despite his celebrity status. His poetry feeds me. I hope it may affect you too.
Poetry can do that if we let it. Here is a poem by Evie Shockley (1965 – ) addressing how poetry influences us:
job prescription
will poetry change the world? no one asks this about football, the thrill of watching or playing. we get that nurses & doctors are healers. no question that rabbis, priests, &
imams guide individuals & groups through spiritual thickets. we don’t tell cooks to put down their wooden spoons & go make a real difference instead of a real soufflé. teachers
are honored for the learning they impart. so let poets keep on exciting passion in themselves & others. don’t discourage us from our efforts to diagnose the human heart or create
trail markers for those coming behind us on this journey. trust me when i say that poetry heals, guides, feeds, & enlivens. poetry may not change the world, but might change you.
You may let The Thunker know what you think at her e-mail address, donoholdt@gmail.com.
Last Call For CIRCUS Tickets: An Extravaganza To Benefit The Estes Nonprofit Network
By: Karen McPherson, Estes Nonprofit Network
These are uncertain times–which are the perfect time to lean into spaces where we can make a BIG difference: our local community. The Nonprofit
Network believes in our mountain town and the power of our nonprofit industry. We invite you to take one night off the newsreels and enjoy a 21+ CIRCUS. As they say…”The show must go on.” Meet your neighborly do-
gooder dressed up in a tutu. Play a circus game, toss a ring on some soda bottles. Take it easy and have FUN. For goodness' sake, the Bank of Colorado is sponsoring an acrylic box full of circulating cash where attendees spin for a chance to go in and grab as much as they can. Win cool prizes–of course, stuffed animals (thematic), but also tickets to see a show at Mishawaka Ampitheater or getting your house cleaned.
Circus: A Fundraising Extravaganza is April 18, 6 - 10 p.m. at the Estes Park Event Center. The first two hours of this 21+ event will be carnival games, circus tricks, contortionists, face painting, balloon twisters, and a bouncy house, oh my! Dancing begins at 8 pm.
Right now, the Dunk-Raiser is open and active: your friends and ours are voting with their wallets to dunk or save seven different familiar faces from Estes Park. The outcome of this year’s peer-to-peer “Dunk-Raiser” will take
place at the CIRCUS. All votes go to support the Estes Nonprofit Network’s work to strengthen and support the local nonprofit industry.
And did we mention silent auction trips online?! International luxury travel trips are available to Portugal, Greece, Paris, Italy, Scotland, Switzerland, and a South Africa Safari. There are two national trips as well: Boston and Sedona. These go live Wednesday, April 16, and bidding closes the night of the CIRCUS. Circus tickets are on sale through Friday, April 11. That’s it. Catch it while you can. Those elephants are ganna roll out of town and you’re ganna be wishing you had gone. There is no next time. Entry into the Circus Extravaganza starts at just $75. All tickets come with $25 food truck vouchers because, well, you will need to stay fueled. Visit www.bit.ly/enn-circus.
Did You Know: The Nonprofit Network was founded in 2003 by a group of community members who recognized that our local nonprofits needed resources for grant-seeking, financial management, marketing, and more. These issues are ever present and the Network–along with its scores of Mission Partners–continue to serve and strengthen our local nonprofit industry. And most of those folks being supported are volunteers (roughly 60% of local nonprofits operate without paid staff)! The CIRCUS, AmFund Trips, and the Dunk-Raiser are all ways you can choose to stand by the powerhouse of nonprofits.
Last call for CIRCUS tickets! Gather your crew and your costume for this 21+ Circus Fundraising Extravaganza. Tickets are available through Friday, April 11 via www.bit.ly/enn-circus.
Dunkraiser Progress
The votes are coming in! The Estes Nonprofit Network invites you to DUNK or SAVE seven different familiar faces: business leaders and government guys alike. You might know them personally, or it might just be a fun therapeutic association with banking, outdooring, holiday jingles, visitors, taxes, roundabouts....it's all there for the Dunking!
All votes go to provide education, resources, and collaboration opportunities for our local nonprofit industry. The fate of these good-humored local leaders will be decided by your votes and either dunked or saved on April 18 at the CIRCUS. Dunk-raiser, CIRCUS tickets, and links to bid on international luxury trips can be found at epnonprofit.org/circus-fundraiser.
Macdonald Book Shop’s Children’s Story Time
Macdonald Book Shop announces Children’s Story Time, occurring every Monday at 9:30 a.m., including during summer. This is a free event with Michele, who has chosen weekly themes to make the event more entertaining for children. Upcoming themes include dragons, bigfoot, little blue truck, and bad kitty. There will be a special Chil-
dren’s Story Time on Saturday, April 26, 2025, to coincide with Bigfoot Days and Independent Bookstore Day.
Michele has worked for the shop for four years, has a grown child, and owned the Hiking Hut. Her expertise in the children’s book section and love of reading make the half hour of reading fun and engaging for all ages of children.
The Great Estes Park Duck Race Expands For 2025 With New Events & Celebrity Grand Marshal
The Great Estes Park Duck Race, presented by The Rotary Club of Estes Park, returns May 2-3, 2025, with an expanded lineup of events, new entertainment, and a celebrity emcee, making this year’s race the biggest yet. A family-friendly tradition for 36 years, the Duck Race continues to grow, bringing the community together while raising funds for local organizations.
Participants can adopt a duck for $25 or purchase a Quack Pack (six ducks for $125) to support a local participating nonprofit of their choice. On race day, thousands of rubber ducks will take the plunge into the Big Thompson River, racing toward the finish line, with prizes awarded to the adopters of the winning ducks. Thanks to generous sponsors, $23 from each adoption goes directly to local charities, contributing to the $3 million raised since 1989.
Beyond the race, enjoy a full day of entertainment with live music on the main stage and at various locations throughout the venue, special grownup games, and local vendors. The Kids Zone features bounce houses, face painting, ceramic painting, balloon animals, mini-golf, and more. Kids can even adopt and customize their own duck to race on a special mini-course, with winners receiving a sweet treat!
A complimentary Duck Shuttle will run continuously throughout the festival, making it easy for attendees to navigate the venue, visit dozens of downtown merchants, attractions, and restaurants, and access remote parking areas.
New for 2025
Celebrity Grand Marshal: Actor + comedian Patrick Warburton, known for Seinfeld, Family Guy, Rules of Engagement, Lemony Snicket’s A Series of Unfortunate Events, The Tick, and more.
Patrick Warburton is coming to Estes Park for The Stanley Hotel takeover event May 2-3 — Warburton’s Mountain Madness — a weekend filled with music and comedy. He is graciously adding the Duck Race to his schedule, not because he was brought in as a grand marshal, but because he genuinely wants to give back to the community while he is here. He is an incredible guy, and it is truly an honor to host him in Estes Park!
Race Course + Venue: The race begins with the duck drop into the Big Thompson River from the new Riverside Bridge across from the Estes Park Post Office and ends at
the Estes Park Visitor Center.
Format: Five "heats" of ducks will race, with winners from each heat competing in a final round for cash and prizes. The top duck finishers from each heat will compete in one final race for the grand prize.
Integration with Warburton’s Mountain Madness Weekend: Adopt a duck and receive a complimentary ticket to the Burn The Ballroom with Special Guest Patrick Warburton at The Stanley Hotel on Friday, May 2. (Tickets are limited so adopt your ducks now!) Don’t miss a night of Stand-Up Comedy with Patrick Warburton at The Stanley Pavilion on May 3 at 7 + 9 p.m. (This event will sell out fast!) Duck Duck Jeep Rally: Custom and classic Jeep show.
Expanded weekend activations: Live music on multiple stages, a VIP reception, comedy events throughout town, grownup games, and more.
Festival Weekend Schedule
Friday, May 2
5:30–6:30 p.m.: Duck Duck Dance reception at The Stanley Concert Hall with a dignitary meet and greet, special Duck Race activations, and a special appearance by Warburton.
6:30 p.m.: Live music from Burn the Ballroom with Warburton performing alongside the band. Admission free with duck adoption ($25) or $40 per person without a duck adoption.
Saturday, May 3
9 a.m.: Duck Waddle 5K and scenic run/walk around Lake Estes, welcoming all abilities. Registration includes automatic duck adoption.
11 a.m.: Pre-race entertainment and family-friendly activities.
12–5 p.m.: Great Estes Park Duck Race with Warburton serving as Grand Marshal and releasing the first flight of 13,000 ducks into the river.
7 + 9 p.m.: Night of Stand-Up Comedy with Patrick Warburton at The Stanley Pavilion. This event will sell out fast!
Evening: Comedy events at various locations around Estes Park.
Get your ducks in a row by visiting The Great Estes Park Duck Race for festival details, duck merch, volunteering opportunities, transportation, and more.
Submitted by Derek Vinge
After moving here in 2016 to run my financial advisory office with Edward Jones I quickly became involved in the community through serving on several boards across the community: Chamber of Commerce, Sunrise Rotary, Estes Non-profit Network & American Legion Foundation. It is through these experiences that my passion to serve on boards for organizations that I believe are important and do good for the community
Derek Vinge Running For Estes Valley Recreation & Parks Board
has only grown – that is why I'm running for the EVRPD board position on May 6th
As a board member my role will strategic leadership, policy governance and staying out of the weeds – staff is responsible for executing operations. It's the role of the board to build a strong future for the rec district and its constituents, ensuring health of the district for decades to come. My professional background and community involvement lend very well to this role. Please come out to the Community Center on May 6th from 7:00 a.m.-7:00 p.m. and cast your vote.
New Location Coming Soon!
Ge Get t your measles vaccine a your measles vaccine at EPH t EPH!
EPH Clinic is hosting a measles vaccination clinic for our community (adults & kids). No appointment needed!
Saturday, April 12 from 10a.m. – 1p.m.
Schedule: kids should receive MMR vaccines at 1 year and 4 years. Babies 6 months through 11 months are eligible for a “bonus” dose of MMR if at high risk (i.e. travel or in an outbreak area). Toddlers 13 months or older can get their second dose of MMR early if at high risk (minimum 1 month between vaccines).
Did you know…
Only 72% of school-aged children in Estes Park are adequately vaccinated against measles. In order to stop an outbreak, a community needs to have 95% vaccinated to achieve “herd immunity.”
3/25/25
“We have been blown away by how incredibly kind, helpful, and wonderful all of the Trailblazer team members have been, including Angelo, Teresa, & the two staff members who came out to install for us. Everybody is so wonderful! We are so thankful to the Trailblazer Estes Team for making it so easy and even a pleasant experience!”
Parkinson’s Disease Support Group Meeting
Tuesday, April 15
The next meeting of the Parkinson’s Disease Support Group will be held Tuesday, April 15 in the Wasson Room at the Estes Valley Library from 3:30 to 5:00 p.m. Monthly meetings are held on the third Tuesday of the month. All affected by this progressive neurological disease are welcome to attend to bring their own experiences, strength and hope and come together for the good of the group.
Be A “Member” Of The Fun At American Legion Post 119 And The Tavern At The Legion
Our newly renovated and remodeled Tavern at the Legion will be reopening soon, and we invite everyone to come check us out, and come in often. We are open to one and all! But did you know…
You do not need to be a member to come in and enjoy our Tavern. However, while “card carrying” members of the Legionnaires, the Auxiliary, and the Sons have privileges and benefits above the general public, you too can become a “card carrying” member and enjoy being part of a club with similar benefits! Circle 119 is our “club” that is open to any member of our community to join, and thus receive similar benefits to the Legionnaires, Auxiliary, and Sons. It is our way, as Veterans, to once again serve our community by
Rotary Club Of Estes Park Presents Mark Lee
Thursday, April 17th
After witnessing the impact of extreme poverty on India's children, Mark started volunteering for a charitable organization, Bethania Kids, dedicated to providing hope and wholeness to these children.
We meet at the American Legion and the public is invited to attend. The Noon Rotary starts at 12 p.m. If you would like to join us for lunch it starts at 11:30 a.m. and cost is $20. RSVP to noonrotary@aol.com by 12 noon on Tuesday, April 15th if joining us for lunch.
sharing the fun and camaraderie of our great facility with our community at large. For only $100 ($150 Family) you will become a member of Circle 119. Why "Circle" 119? The indigenous peoples who inhabited our valley long before us, most recently the Utes and Arapahos, spent summer months in this bowl surrounded by mountains. This bowl was their "circle" for the summer. The Native Americans considered circles or hoops very sacred... a symbol of unity, and of infinity: no beginning, no end, just continuity. They performed hoop dances, and built sacred hoops, or "medicine wheels", to honor the sacred symbol of inclusion. We at American Legion Post 119 choose to remember and honor the tradition of our ancestors, and draw a circle that includes the entirety of our community. Not just veterans and their families, but all the community members that our veterans swore to protect. So, we invite you to join our circle, as we extend increased benefits through membership in our cherished facility.
Contact Cindy Minier at pcminier@gmail.com for an application or if you have any questions.
Mark Lee & Bethania Kids
Reigning world champion Kelsie Domer competes during the 2024 National Finals Breakaway Roping in Las Vegas. Domer is a 10-time WPRA world champion who is excited to showcase breakaway roping at Rooftop Rodeo during its six-day run July 510 in Estes Park.
WPRA photo by Clay Guardipee
Rooftop Adding New Event
Breakaway roping will add highspeed excitement to Estes Park rodeo Erin Johnson and Kelsie Domer have centered their lives around roping.
Crutches4Africa.org
Sunrise Rotary and Noon Rotary have been collaborating on a project titled Crutches4Africa. It is a 501(c)(3) organization and is the international project of Mountain Foothills Rotary Club in District 5450. David Talbot is a Rotarian and a polio survivor. He and his wife Candice, founded this organization after witnessing people in Africa struggling to move due to the effects of polio. Crutches4Africa is now a worldwide organization and every person participating in it is a volunteer. No one is paid. They do this out of the goodness of their heart to provide mobility devices to people stricken with polio. They are living Rotary’s motto: Service Above Self.
Bill Howell, President of Sunrise Rotary, offered his garage as a collection site for donated items. If you have an assistive device you no longer need or want, bring it to our Rotary meeting on the first four Thursdays of the month at the American Legion at 11: 30 AM. I will collect them and deliver them to Bill at his home.
We have been offered an empty RV to serve as a collection site, but I need a 16 foot site where I can park it. If you know of a place, please contact me at anneslack@aol.com.
“Mobility, Health, Dignity, Access: We toil together to enable those we may never see. Hobbled in life by some illness, accident or act of violence. Many are hopeless. The generous donations given to Crutches 4 Africa are the tools we use to help raise the hindered, to lift them from the dust, and help them on their way.”
To contact Crutches4Africa, phone: 303-877-2803 or email: c4a@crutches4africa.org; To view their website go to www.crutches4africa.org. Please help us with this very worthy cause.
Thank you, Annie Slack, 970-231-6697
Combined, they have a baker’s dozen of Women’s Professional Rodeo Association world championships, and they’re looking forward to heading to Estes Park for Rooftop Rodeo, set for 7 p.m. Saturday, July 5-Thursday, July 10, at Granny May Arena inside the Estes Park Fairgrounds.
For the first time in Rooftop Rodeo’s storied history, breakaway roping will be one of the featured events, showcasing the eloquence and speed in the blink of an eye. Ladies will compete for big bucks alongside their male counterparts all while trying to stop the clock in less than 3 seconds.
“Breakaway roping has been around for decades, but the interest has really shot up the last few years,” said Cindy Schonholtz, the Rooftop Rodeo coordinator. “We’re excited to bring breakaway roping to Estes Park starting this year, and we’re making as big of a deal out of it as we can. Just like we are with all events this year, our ‘added money’ will be $10,000.”
She’s referring to local dollars that are injected into each event. With nine disciplines, that money increases the community’s support to $90,000 for the rodeo. Those dollars are then mixed with the contestants’ entry fees to make up the total purse, which last year was just shy of $120,000. That number will increase significantly in 2025.
“We are so grateful for every single Mountain States Circuit rodeo that has breakaway roping, because there are so many girls up here that are really craving the opportunities that breakaway roping and professional rodeo have to offer,” said Erin Johnson, a three-time WPRA world champion breakaway roper from Fowler, Colorado.
“It’s just phenomenal. A rodeo like Estes Park can make a huge difference for the circuit girl to get a chance to step up. I’ve gone to the Estes Park rodeo with my husband for 20 years to
watch him rope calves. It’s beautiful there. The hospitality is outstanding. It’s very unique in its culture and its setting, and I’m glad I have the opportunity to rope there, too.”
Johnson won her WPRA breakaway roping gold in 2011-12 and 2015, years before the WPRA established ProRodeo Breakaway Roping. She qualified for the first four National Finals Breakaway Roping championships that take place in conjunction with the National Finals Rodeo. She’s seen her sport blossom in ways many never imagined. When she last won a world title, she finished the year with $12,752 in earnings.
Domer was also on board before breakaway roping took off. She won the 2017-19 breakaway titles and also added world championships in 2012 and 2018 in tie-down roping and allaround buckles in 2012, ’17, ’20 and ’21. She is a three-time qualifier to the breakaway championship and earned the ProRodeo Breakaway Roping gold last year while earning just shy of $170,000.
“I think it’s great that we’ve got another rodeo, and then to be equal added money right off the bat is awesome,” said Domer of Dublin, Texas. “It’s a busy time of year, but it’s cool to have that option to go to that spot, because we haven’t ever had it before.
“I’ve heard a lot of people say that everybody likes to go there. It’s always fun to go to new places and to places like that, where I’m sure it’s going to be beautiful and cool you off for a little bit, too.”
She realized many things have happened since last year’s Rooftop Rodeo to offer this opportunity.
“The committee, the stock contractor and everybody involved has obviously been on the same page to make things better and allow things to grow year after year, and that’s awesome,” Domer said. “We would love to see that everywhere we go, but it’s nice to see that happen there in a short amount of time.” Cont. on next page
The addition and increased purse will be a big deal to both champions and other ladies who will put their names in the hat to compete in Estes Park. For Johnson, having an event of this magnitude in her home state is crucial. Like Rooftop Rodeo, she is part of the Mountain States Circuit, a regional affiliation for competitors and events primarily in Colorado and Wyoming. Any dollars she earns in Estes Park will count for both the circuit and the world standings.
“I’m flattered that they think that much of breakaway, and they think that much of the girls they’re seeing roping,” Johnson said. “I’m glad they do, because there are so many girls competing now and so many more of them coming along all the time. They all rope so good, so they put on a show. It’s fast, and it’s a professional event. The quality of roping just goes up for us every year.
“It’s flattering to me that a rodeo like Estes Park is willing to just jump on board and offer the same money. I’m excited.”
Rooftop Rodeo will take place July 510. Gates open each night at 5 p.m. The pre-show begins at 6:45 p.m., and the rodeo starts at 7 p.m. For more information about the Rooftop Rodeo or to purchase tickets, visit rooftoprodeo.com. Inquiries about tickets may be made by contacting the Town of Estes Park Events Office at 970-577-3900 or events@estes.org. The Rooftop Rodeo is a Town of Estes Park signature event.
Get A Plot At The Community Garden
Do you want to get your hands in the dirt? Gardening weather is coming soon!
The Estes Valley Community Garden is pleased to announce that we are accepting new and returning gardeners to garden with us this growing season. The revised version of the application/license for a garden plot is now available on the website.
Look for us at www.evcg.org if you are interested in having a gardening plot at the Community Garden. Just download the 2025 license/contract and send it to evcg@evcg.org. If you want to mail your license/contract to us then send it to EVCG P.O. Box 4158, Estes Park, CO 80517.
Hope to see you at the garden this spring!
Pasqueflower In Bloom
Protect Our Community: Get Your Measles Vaccine At EPH
Measles is highly contagious, and Estes Park’s vaccination rate is below the recommended 95% needed for herd immunity. Protect yourself, your family, and your neighbors by getting vaccinated!
Estes Park Health Clinic is hosting a no-appointmentneeded vaccination clinic: Saturday, April 12 from 10 a.m. –1 p.m.
Children should receive the
MMR vaccine at 1 year and 4 years old. Babies 6-11 months can get an early dose if at high risk. Children 13 months and older can receive their second dose early if needed.
Let’s work together to keep Estes Park healthy!
All other vaccinations require an appointment. Please call the clinic at 970-5862317.
Photo by Marcia Tavel
SPRING HOURS
Mondays - Thursdays, 10 a.m. - 8 p.m.
Fridays & Saturdays, 10 a.m. - 5 p.m.
Sundays, 1 - 5 p.m.
Special Hours
Closed Friday, April 25 for building maintenance & organization
Registration is required for most programs! Visit calendar.estesvalleylibrary.org to reserve your spot.
BOOKS & AUTHORS
The Thrill of Writing Action, Adventure, & Suspense: Author Talk with Gregg Hurwitz
Thursday, April 24, 5 - 6 p.m., online
Love action-packed adventure? Join this riveting conversation with New York Times bestselling author Gregg Hurwitz as he discusses his Orphan X
What’s Happening At The Estes Valley Library
series and his life as a writer of suspenseful storytelling. Presented with the Library Speakers Consortium.
ALL AGES
Spring Bunny Flower Pots
Friday, April 11, 10 a.m. - 12 p.m., Makerspace repeated Thursday, April 17, 10 a.m.12 p.m., Makerspace
Make oversized, fluffy pom-poms from yarn, then use them as the centerpiece of a spring-themed flower pot. Recommend for adults, teens, and tweens.
Game Night!
Saturday, April 12, 2 - 4:30 p.m., Hondius Room
Play board games including classics like Clue and Candyland, or newer games like Blank Slate and Bologna. All ages welcome – bring your family, friends, and neighbors. Snacks and refreshments provided.
Paint a Spring Sign
Thursday, April 17, 5:30 - 7:30 p.m., Makerspace
repeated Monday, April 21, 10 a.m.12 p.m., Makerspace
Craft a charming “Hello, Spring” wooden sign, complete with a cute rabbit and blooming flowers. Recommended for adults, teens, and tweens.
Intro to Needle Felting
Friday, April 18, 10:30 - 11:30 a.m., Makerspace
Learn the basics of needle felting, a technique that uses barbed needles to sculpt wool fibers into intricate shapes. Recommended for adults and teens.
Cricut Adventures: Create a Bigfoot Card
Monday, April 28, 10 a.m. - 12 p.m., Makerspace
Use the Cricut Maker 3 to bring Bigfoot to life, just in time for the Bigfoot Days Festival! Recommended for adults and teens.
Intro to Sublimation
Tuesday, April 29, 10 - 11:30 a.m., Makerspace
repeated Tuesday, April 29, 5:30 - 7 p.m., Makerspace
Learn the basics of sublimation printing: Receive step-by-step guidance on how to use the heat press and mug press to create personalized items. Recommended for adults and teens.
ADULTS
Tech Help with Digital Navigators of Larimer County
Build your digital skills, including using your smartphone, accessing websites and accounts online, improving online communications, and more. Appointments required; sign up at calendar.estesvalleylibrary.org. Please note: There will not be service on Thursday, April 17.
Makerspace Monthly Meetup
Monday, April 28, 5:30 - 7 p.m., Makerspace
Whether you’re an experienced artisan or a curious beginner, this creative gathering is a time to connect with fellow makers, explore various crafting techniques, and work on a project of your choosing.
Election Information with the League of Women Voters of Estes Park
Thursday, May 1, 12 - 2 p.m., Library Atrium
The League of Women Voters of Estes Park will be on hand to help with voter registration, important election dates, and other information about voting in local, regional, and national elections.
TEENS &
KIDS
Dungeons & Dragons: Spring Into Action!
Sunday, April 13, 2 - 4:30 p.m., Makerspace
Sunday, April 27, 2 - 4:30 p.m., Makerspace
Fantasy, gaming, and role-playing fans: join us for the original Dungeons and Dragons. No experience, purchase, or previous knowledge required. Just bring your imagination!
Spring Pipe Cleaner Art
Wednesday, April 16, 4 - 5 p.m., Makerspace
Create pipe cleaner bunnies and butterflies as an ode to spring. Please note that hot glue guns will be used.
Solder a Robot Car
Thursday, April 17, 2 - 4 p.m., Makerspace
Use soldering irons to make a motorized robot car that follows a black line path. Ages 10 and up.
Egg Puns & Egg Coloring
Saturday, April 19, 2 - 3 p.m., Makerspace
repeated Saturday, April 19, 3:304:30 p.m., Makerspace
Color eggs and learn egg puns guaranteed to crack you up! Wear your arts-and-crafts clothes and join us for a fun opportunity to yolk around.
repeated Saturday, April 26, 3 - 4 p.m., Hondius Room
Explore different building and engineering challenges with Legos. This month, create an environment where insects could live and thrive. Each participant will get to make and keep one Lego bug!
May Day Celebration
Thursday, May 1, 3:30 - 5:30 p.m., Hondius Room
Celebrate May Day and the approach of summer by dancing around the Maypole, making a flower crown, braiding ribbons, and browsing the Seed Library.
Teen Advisory Council
Thursday, May 1, 6 - 7 p.m., Hondius Room
Monthly meeting for tweens and teens (ages 11-18) who would like to recommend ideas for library programming, designs for future teen space, and collection purchases for their age group.
KIDS & FAMILIES
Library Storytimes
Baby Storytime: Thurs., Fri., & Sat. at 10 a.m.
Preschool Storytime: Thurs., Fri., & Sat. at 10:30 a.m.
Storybook Explorers: Sat., April 12 at 11:15 a.m.
Read to Therapy Dog Bo: Thurs., April 17 at 11 a.m.
Read to Therapy Dog Annie: Thurs., April 24 at 11 a.m.
Early Childhood Music
Saturday, April 19, 11 - 11:30 a.m., Hondius Room
Children ages 6 and under (and their caregivers) are invited to join musician and music educator Annaka Hogelin for songs, movement, rhythm, and fun.
MAKERSPACE TRAINING CLASSES
Learn the Laser Cutter
Tuesday, April 15, 10 - 11:30 a.m. repeated Tuesday, April 15, 5:30 - 7 p.m.
For ages 10 and up (participants under the age of 17 must be accompanied by an adult).
LIBRARY BOARD OF TRUSTEES
Regular Meeting
Monday, April 28, 6:30 - 8 p.m., Wasson Room
View meeting agenda and packet materials at estesvalleylibrary.org/board. FRIENDS OF THE LIBRARY FOUNDATION
Cliffhanger Used Books
Cliffhanger Used Books, located next to the Post Office, is operated by the Friends of the Library Foundation, offering gently-used books, movies, and music at discount prices. Open daily from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.
Estes Valley Land Trust Awarded National Land Trust Accreditation Seal: Part I
(In this first of a two-part series on a successful accreditation application, the focus will be on the process as well as the first two elements that must be attained as part of achieving accreditation: (1) Sound Finances; and (2) Stewardship.)
Unfortunately, many positive aspects of life are ephemeral, here one minute and gone the next. By contrast, the land in the Estes Valley is enduring and permanent. This land provides continuing spiritual sustenance and inspiration.
For thousands of years, humans have migrated to or lived here, an area that one travel writer has called “magical.” Enos Mills, the “father” of Rocky Mountain National Park, recounted in 1917 the impact of this magical valley: “From the wilderness the [visitor] returns a man, almost a superman.” However, the land cannot protect itself. That is the work for humans coming together in groups in pursuit of this imperative cause. One of these groups is the community-based Estes Valley Land Trust (EVLT).
As a former EVLT board president and a member for more than a decade, I am delighted to report that recently
the EVLT has earned the prestigious “Land Trust Accredited Seal” awarded by the Land Trust Accreditation Commission, an independent program of the national Land Trust Alliance. The Commission, established in 2006, operates an innovative program to build and recognize strong land trusts, foster public confidence in land conservation efforts, and help ensure the long-term protection of land.
Accreditation is awarded to a select group of land trusts that meet the highest national standards for excellence and conservation performance. In 2024, the EVLT, for the fourth consecutive cycle, successfully completed a rigorous review process that resulted in the conferral an additional seven-year accreditation. The award extended the EVLT’s accreditation status, which initially began in 2008. Of the 16 accredited Colorado land trusts, the EVLT resides in the top quartile in length of accreditation status.
Jeffrey Boring, EVLT Executive Director, said the accreditation was important for several reasons. “The Land Trust Accreditation Commission inspires excellence, promotes public trust, and ensures permanence in the conservation of open lands by recognizing organizations that meet rigorous quality standards and strive for continuous improvement,” he said. “Every day our organization works to protect natural spaces for the people of the Estes Valley, one of the truly magnificent areas in our country,” Boring said.
The Accreditation Seal, considered a “mark of distinction” in the national land trust community, confirms that the EVLT has demonstrated excellence in four organizational categories: (1) sound finances; (2) lasting stewardship; (3) responsible governance; and (4) well-managed land transactions. First established in 1987, the EVLT now protects more than 10,000 acres in the Estes Valley. During this nearly 40-
year period, the EVLT has earned a solid reputation for collaboration with local landowners, Larimer County and Estes Park municipal governments, Great Outdoors Colorado, its nearly 500 members, and the many hundreds of volunteers from near and far who have contributed to the organization’s success.
Sound Finances
Developing and maintaining a solid financial foundation is a key to earning the Accreditation Seal. Among the aspects reviewed by the Commission include financial records, complete and timely IRS Form 990 (for non-profit organizations) filings, board oversight of the annual budget and review of the annual report, ensuring that donor-restricted contributions are classified and tracked, making sure adequate resources for stewardship and defense funding exists, and validating that appropriate levels of insurance are in place.
Two efforts have been especially significant in terms of building a longterm financial foundation for the EVLT. First, former executive director Mary Banken established the “Forever Estes Circle,” a planned giving effort that involves gifts to the EVLT made in wills and trusts. In recent years, the EVLT has been the recipient of several major planned gifts. Beginning more than 10 years ago with a handful of members, today more than 50 individuals have joined the Forever Estes Circle by naming the EVLT as a beneficiary in their wills and/or trusts.
The second effort is the Perpetuity Fund, first conceived by Leo Weber, a former EVLT board president and long-time member. The goal of the fund, launched in 2018, is to ensure that the EVLT exists forever. The fund now has more than $1,000,000 and is well on its way to an eventual goal of $5,000,00. The EVLT board has adopted an investment strategy for the
Perpetuity Fund that emphasizes longterm growth, maximizes returns, and follows proven national standards to minimize risk.
Stewardship
A key element in being awarded an Accreditation Seal involves ensuring that the objectives of each conservation easement are sustained in perpetuity. This element is achieved through a strategic program of easement monitoring, landowner communications, and, if necessary, enforcement actions.
The Commission determined that the program was delivering exactly this result through several steps. First, an EVLT volunteer annually visits each conservation easement to make sure the provisions of the easement are being followed. Second, stringent violation policies and procedures exist so that when improper activity has taken place on an eased property, the EVLT takes prompt action.
Third, the EVLT ensures that when amendments to an easement are proposed, there is no impermissible benefit or private inurement received by the property owner. Finally, any conservation easement management problems found to exist, including encroachments, trespass and other ownership challenges, are addressed in an appropriate and timely manner
Conclusion
The Commission, in awarding the Accreditation Seal, found that the EVLT successfully met the Commission’s high standards with respect to sound finances and stewardship. “The role of renewing accreditation has always been to maintain public trust in the Accreditation Seal by ensuring accredited land trusts continue to meet national standards,” Melissa Kalvestrand, executive director of the Commission said. “The Estes Valley Land Trust has been part of this program for more than 15 years, and we are proud to recognize its commitment to conservation excellence.”
The end of an era: Like 8-tracks and VHS tapes, compact discs are being phased out of society. Soon, they’ll be phasing out of the Estes Valley Library collection.
Over the past several years, library staff have been keeping a close eye on the circulation of CDs (a regular practice for all collection materials). Because we continue to see CD checkouts decrease – and because there are other excellent alternatives for accessing music with your library card – it’s time to deaccession CDs from the library collection.
Starting Saturday, April 26, CDs in the library’s possession will officially no longer be available to circulate. Instead, they’ll be ready to go home with you!
Head to the southwest corner of the first floor (look for the “CD sunset” sign, pictured here) and take your pick
of CDs. There’s no limit to how many you can take home, but be aware that we cannot guarantee sound or quality.
There’s no need to stop by the service desk on your way out –the CDs are free for the taking and first come, first served. Come early (we open at 10 a.m.) to ensure you can take what you’d like!
Still have a CD checked out now or closer to the end of the month? No problem. Enjoy it for the duration of your borrowing period, and when you’re done, we’ll deaccession the CD and add it to
the giveaway stack. Please do return it, though, so we can properly remove it from our collection.
There are still great ways to “borrow” music with your library card. Freegal Music+ is a digital streaming service that works like Spotify or Apple Music –
except that it’s free from subscription fees, and only requires your library card number to sign up.
Music is also available via other digital library services, like Hoopla. Download or stream songs and albums via Apple, Android, or Kindle Fire – and cast them to your car via Bluetooth. Many cars don’t even come with a CD player anymore, so streaming via these services works with modern technology. Regularly pruning the library collection creates an opportunity for adding more relevant materials that match the needs and wants of our community. It also creates a better browsing experience for patrons, allowing us to move other elements to be more accessible and in easier-to-find spots. Browse the library collection, and learn more about digital music services, at estesvalleylibrary.org.
I heard about a church building built in a distant city. Being excited to serve others and share the ‘Good News’ with them they engraved this intention in the arch over the entrance. “We preach Christ crucified!” they announced, for all the community to see. They planted vines on either side of the church’s door. During months that followed, the custodian would open the door and cast water out, most often landing on the vine on the right side of the door. As a result that vine grew much faster than the other. One day someone remarked that the vine had covered one word…‘Crucified’. Since no change was made in the watering pattern, eventually the next word…‘Christ’… was obscured by the vine. Now the visible engraving read: ‘We preach’. The vine continued to grow until finally all that could be seen was the small word, ‘We’. Sadly, during the days since the church building opened, the spirit in the church had also changed. No longer was their concern about ‘others’ and sharing ‘Good News’ with them. All of their focus, in their worship and benevolent activities, was focused on ‘We’…what do ‘we’ want, what ministers to ‘us’, ‘our’ feelings and ‘our’ likes, often even disregarding what Christ, to whom that building had once been dedicated, ‘wanted’ or ‘laid out’ for their focus to be.
‘We’ has always been a focus of people over whom the Evil One maintains control. In the Garden, Eve wrestled with ‘What’s in it for me?’ The ‘fruit’ looked good to the eyes, and seemed to have the ability to make one wise, so ‘we’…she and Adam…made the wrong choice…impacting all mankind since. And each of us has wrestled with the temptation to focus on ‘We’…‘our’ needs…wants…likes…when deciding how we will live. During current days we are becoming aware of how that ‘We’…or even ‘Me’… mentality is increasingly impacting our nation’s thinking and focus. “We’ need to make sure that no nation is ‘taking advantage’ of us.” As a result, we’ve increasingly alienated our allies… allies that we have so long encouraged, ‘fought alongside of’, and helped… and they us. I enjoyed attending high school in Canada, now having relationships and friendships with Canadians all over the Provinces by serving them, and with them, through church-related activities. Now, sadly, Canadians are jeering the U.S. flag as it’s raised at professional hockey and baseball games. It used to be so different. And it’s happening all over the world as one nation after another denies travel to their people who might want to visit our nation…a number shrinking enormously. Why? Because we are being seen more and more as a ‘We’…‘Me’…nation beginning at the top…with ‘Me first’ leaders and, just perhaps, trickling down to us, worried about ‘My’ Social Security, ‘My’ cost-of-living, etc. So, where does it stop?
A good start would be to begin by thinking of others. I’m moved by these words: “I took a day to search for God. I climbed the highest steeple. But God declared, “Go down again. I live among the people.” Someone else wisely wrote: “Others, Lord, others, this my prayer will be. Help me live for others, that I might live like Thee.” Author Max Lucado reminds us this is hard for most: “Your eyes know no tears, your heart no compassion, but you’ll go to church…when churchgoing’s in fashion. Just give me a tear, a heart ready to mold, and I’ll give you a mission, a message so bold, that a fire will be stirred, where there was only death, and your heart will be flamed by my life and my breath.”
Next week churches and people all over the world will be reminded again of that wonderful spirit of ‘They’ as the death and resurrection of our Lord will be celebrated worldwide. Our Lord put the spirit of His ‘Me’ aside and went to the cross for each of us. God then showed how He rewards that kind of life-choice with a beautiful resurrection. No wonder Paul would joyfully say, “I’ve been crucified with Christ!” (Gal. 2:20) so that he could also say: “That I may be a partaker with Him in a resurrection like His!” (Phil. 4:10, 11) I want that, don’t you? Bob
Fast Track Financial Management With High Speed Internet
Let’s face it, managing finances isn’t typically considered a thrilling activity for most people. However, having the right tools can make a significant difference in reducing stress and improving your financial situation. Highspeed internet is one of those essential tools that can transform your financial management experience, helping you save money, earn more, and enjoy a more peaceful financial life.
If you’re still wrestling with your 2024 tax filing, don’t stress! With fast internet, you can e-file your taxes quickly and securely, ensuring faster refunds and fewer errors. Plus, you can access free filing options and affordable tax software from anywhere! �� Then use these tips to organize for an even easier tax filing next year!
1. Effortless Financial Tracking
5. Reducing Financial Stress with Automation
Automation is a powerful ally in financial management. High-speed internet allows you to automate tasks like savings transfers, bill payments, and investment contributions. This not only saves time but also reduces the stress associated with remembering multiple deadlines and transactions.
6. Enhanced Security and Peace of Mind
High-speed internet allows you to use advanced financial tracking tools with ease. Apps like Quicken Simplifi, Empower, and Rocket Money help you monitor your spending, create budgets, and set financial goals. These tools provide a clear picture of your financial health, making it easier to identify areas where you can cut costs and optimize your spending.
2. Stress-Free Bill Payments
With high-speed internet, paying bills becomes a breeze. You can set up automatic payments, receive reminders, and track your transactions in realtime. This reduces the likelihood of missed payments and late fees, which can be a significant source of financial stress.
3. Investment Opportunities at Your Fingertips
High-speed internet opens up a world of investment opportunities. You can access real-time market data, execute trades instantly, and use sophisticated analysis tools to make informed investment decisions. Whether you’re a seasoned investor or just starting out, having fast and reliable internet ensures that you stay ahead of the curve.
4. Access to Financial Education and Resources
The internet is a treasure trove of financial knowledge. With high-speed internet, you can access a wealth of educational resources, from blogs and podcasts to online courses and webinars. This helps you stay informed about the latest financial trends and strategies, empowering you to make better financial decisions.
High-speed internet also enhances the security of your financial transactions. With fast and reliable connections, you can ensure that your data is encrypted and protected from potential threats. This peace of mind is invaluable, as it allows you to focus on growing your wealth rather than worrying about security breaches.
7. Increased Financial Flexibility
In today’s digital age, having high-speed internet provides flexibility in managing your finances. You can work remotely, access financial services from anywhere, and respond quickly to changes in the market. This flexibility is crucial for adapting to unexpected financial challenges and opportunities.
Conclusion
While managing finances might not be the most exciting task, using highspeed internet can make it significantly less stressful and more effective. By leveraging advanced financial tools, automating tasks, and staying informed, you can save money, earn more, and enjoy a more secure financial future. So, if you’re looking to take the stress out of financial management, it’s time to harness the power of highspeed internet!
Take Control of Your Finances Today!
Upgrade Your Internet: Ensure you have a fast and reliable internet connection (think Trailblazer) to support your financial tools.
Explore Financial Apps: Use apps like Rocket Money and Empower to streamline your financial tracking and planning.
Stay Educated: Continuously learn about new financial strategies and tools to optimize your financial management.
By doing so, you’ll be well on your way to a less stressful and more prosperous financial life!
Sierra, Elsa, Max And Brandi Need New, Loving, Forever Families
Sierra is a gorgeous Husky, about two years old. She loves people, is an awesome dog, funny, crate trained and playful.
Elsa she is an amazing girl. She weighs 60 pounds and is four years old. She loves to go for walks, is really easy on a leash and loves all humans. Elsa has so much love to give but we don’t think she’d be good with cats. Max is seven years old and great with other dogs. He loves walks and car rides and is a great protector. Max would not be a good fit with kids. Brandi is a two year old healer mix. She is fun and high energy. She loves everyone and is crate trained.
All of these great dogs are looking for their forever homes. Please make their wishes come true.
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 nonprofit 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.
Stanley Home To Host International Best Seller, Aimie Runyon
The Stanley Home Museum and Education Center is hosting international best selling author, Aimie Runyan on April 12 at the Stanley Home Museum and Education Center from 6:30-8:30 p.m. Aimie will provide a reading and writing process seminar.
Aimie K. Runyan writes to celebrate history’s unsung heroines and the spirit of strong women of any era. She has been honored as a Historical Novel So-
Meals are $7 for current 2025 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, Apr 14th, you need to call before 1:00 PM on Friday, Apr 11th. 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
Bridge Group Every Thursday 12:30 – 4:30 PM with lessons in the morning Canasta, Euchre & Pinochle 1st & 3rd Wednesdays 1:00 – 4:30
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
ciety Editors’ Choice selection, as a five-time finalist for the Colorado Book Awards, and as a nominee for the Rocky Mountain Fiction Writer of the Year. Both of her 2024 titles have been long listed for the Reading the West Award in Fiction. Aimie is active as an educator and speaker in the writing community and beyond, and is an adjunct professor for the Drexel University MFA in Creative Writing Program. She is a proud member of the Tall Poppy Writers. She lives in Colorado with her amazing husband, two (usually) adorable children, two (always) adorable kitties, and a dragon.
For more information contact, Lisa O’Sullivan Carroll, director@stanleyhome.org.
BRANDI
ELSA
SIERRA
MAX
Practical Gardening Tips For The Estes Valley
It’s time to start planning for your garden! Estes Park Garden Club invites you to its first meeting of 2025 on Monday, April 14 from 10:30 - 11:45 a.m. in the Hondius Room of the Estes Valley Library.
Learn how to make the most of your high-elevation garden. Alison O'Connor from CSU Extension will discuss critter management, plant selection, and how to make the most out of a shorter growing season.
Frank Lancaster, Estes Park Master Gardener will be on hand to give examples of what works in his garden in Estes Park. Everyone is welcome to attend.
EVICS is hosting a special Family Night on April 24th from 5:30 p.m. to 7:00 p.m., an event designed to support and empower families in the community. This night will provide a unique opportunity for parents and caregivers to learn, connect, and enjoy a night out—all while ensuring the little ones are cared for. The evening’s highlight will be a presentation by local pediatrician, Dr. Ross, who will share her expertise on "Common Childhood Injuries." From burns and bumps to scrapes and bruises, Dr. Ross will provide helpful advice on how to handle everyday injuries, when to seek medical attention, and how to keep children safe at home and beyond.
This family-friendly event offers more than just valuable information. Free on-site childcare will be provided, allowing parents to focus on the presentation and Q&A session without interruptions.
An Opportunity for Community Connection
Family Night isn’t just about learning—it’s also about building relationships. The evening is designed to give families time to connect with one another, share experiences, and grow a stronger sense of community. Whether you're new to the area or have been around for years, this is an opportunity to meet other parents and caregivers and create lasting connections.
Join Us for a Fun and Educational Evening
Mark your calendars for April 24th at the Presbyterian Church of the Rockies. With free childcare, a yummy meal, and expert advice on keeping your child safe, it's an event you won't want to miss.
For more information, please contact EVICS Family Resource Center at 970586-3055.
April Family Night Free Family Event
Presentation and Q & A with local pedatrician Dr. Ross
Topic: Common childhood injuries - burns, bumps, scrapes, etc.
Dr. Ross will be sharing basic education on common injuries in children so parents can have some sense of what to do, or know when the child needs to be seen.
Thursday April 24 - 5:30pm -7:00pm th
Dinner Provided! Let us know you’re coming!
Presbyterian Community Church of the Rockies 1700 Brodie Ave, Estes Park, CO 80517
Marsha Hobert photo
Supporting Janet Zeschin For Park Hospital District Board
To The Editor:
I am proud to express my enthusiastic support for Janet Zeschin as a Candidate for the Park Hospital District Board. Janet brings a wealth of healthcare experience, a deep commitment to service, and an unwavering dedication to the community. She is the kind of leader we need to strengthen and advance the hospital district's mission.
Janet’s professional background equips her with the knowledge and insight to navigate the complexities of healthcare, which is increasingly vital in today’s challenging environment. Her extensive experience enables her to make informed decisions, advocate effectively for patients and providers, and ensure the organization remains responsive to the community's needs. Janet has a proven track record of collaboration and leadership. She understands the importance of bringing people together to solve problems,
fostering goodwill, and ensuring that decisions benefit not just a few, but the entire community. This ability to listen, build consensus, and advocate for equitable and thoughtful solutions will make her an invaluable advocate on the board.
We need board members who are not only knowledgeable and skilled but who also genuinely care about improving the lives of others. Janet Zeschin is that person. Her dedication to her community, combined with her professional expertise, makes her the ideal candidate to ensure that the Park Hospital District continues to thrive and serve its mission effectively.
I wholeheartedly endorse Janet’s candidacy and encourage the community to support her in this crucial role. With Janet on the board, we are confident that the organization and the community will benefit from her service, leadership, and vision.
Teresa Mueller
Supporting Dr. Tom Leigh For Park Hospital Board
To The Editor:
We, the undersigned, wish to state our intentions to vote for Dr. Tom Leigh for the Park Hospital Board of Trustees on May 6th, 2025.
We believe that Tom has the best vision for the future of healthcare in the Estes Valley.
He states the following: “The three most important issues facing EPH are the dwindling medical services, the persistent financial struggles/UCHealth affiliation, and the toxic working conditions at the hospital which have led to high staff turnover.”
In our discussions with Tom, we have been impressed with his years of experience working in emergency medicine, his honesty, his forthright willingness to state the problems, and his dedication to our community.
We believe that this is exactly what is needed on the PHD Board to meet the issues going forward.
Dr. John and Dona Cooper
Dr. Guy and Leslie Van der Werf
Jim and Gail Cozette
Phil and Tara Moenning
Wear headphones often? Be certain your volume is below 85 dB - anything higher can damage the fragile structures in your ear and cause hearing loss. Keep your streaming tunes to less than 60% of your device's maximum volume. Learn more about Quota Club's Hearing and Speech work in Estes Park at https://estesparkquota.com/contact-info
¿Usa auriculares con frecuencia? Asegúrese de que el volumen sea inferior a 85 dB; cualquier volumen superior puede dañar las frágiles estructuras de su oído y provocar pérdida de audición. Mantenga la reproducción de música a menos del 60 % del volumen máximo de su dispositivo. Obtenga más información sobre el trabajo de audición y habla de Quota Club en Estes Park en https://estesparkquota.com/contact-info
New Choices For Business Owners
If you own a business and you offer a 401(k) or similar retirement plan to your employees, you’ll want to stay current on the various changes affecting these types of accounts. And in 2024, you may find some interesting new developments to consider. These changes are part of the SECURE 2.0 Act, enacted at the end of 2022. And while some parts of the law went into effect in 2023 — such as the new tax credit for employer contributions to start-up retirement plans with 100 or fewer employees — others were only enacted this year.
Here are some of these changes that may interest you:
• New “starter” 401(k)/403(b) – If you haven’t already established a retirement plan, you can now offer a “starter” 401(k) or “safe harbor” 403(b) plan to employees who meet age and service requirements. These plans have lower contribution limits ($6,000 per year, or $7,000 for those 50 or older) than a typical 401(k) or 403(b) and employers can’t make matching or nonelective contributions. These plans are low-cost and easy to administer but the credit for employer contributions doesn’t apply, as these contributions aren’t allowed, and since start-up costs are low, the tax credit for these costs will be correspondingly lower than they’d be for a full-scale 401(k) plan.
• Matches for student loan payments – It’s not easy for young employees to save for retirement and pay back student loans. To help address this problem, Congress included a provision in Secure 2.0 that allows employers the option to provide matching contributions to employees’ retirement plans (401(k), 403(b), 457(b) and SIMPLE IRAs) when these employees make qualified student loan payments. Of course, if you offer this match for student loan payments, your costs will likely increase, although these match-
ing contributions are tax deductible. In any case, you may want to balance any additional expense with the potential benefit of attracting and retaining employees, particularly those who have recently graduated from college.
• 401(k) eligibility for part-time employees – Part-time employees who are at least 21 years old and have at least 500 hours of service in three consecutive years must now be eligible to contribute to an existing 401(k) plan. The inclusion of part-time employees could lead to higher business expenses for you, depending on the amount of contributions you may make to employees’ plans. Again, though, you’d be offering a benefit that could be attractive to quality part-time employees.
• Emergency savings account – Many people, especially those who don’t earn high incomes, have trouble building up emergency funds they can tap for unexpected costs, such as a major home or car repair or large medical expenses. Now, if you offer a 401(k), 403(b) or 457(b) plan, you can include a pension-linked emergency savings account (PLESA) that allows non-highly compensated employees to save up to $2,500, a figure that will be indexed for inflation in the future. PLESA allows for tax-free monthly withdrawals without incurring a 10% tax penalty. PLESA contributions are made on an after-tax (Roth) basis and must be matched at the same rate as other employee contributions.
You may want to consult with your tax and financial professionals to determine how these changes may affect what you want to do with your retirement plan. The more you know, the better your decisions likely will be.
This article was written by Edward Jones for use by our local Edward Jones Financial Advisors.
Edward Jones, Member SIPC
Estes Valley Sunrise Rotary Welcomes Laura Kate Webermeier Bishop
Estes Valley Sunrise Rotary President Bill Howell and Membership Chair Stacey Cole-Winsor welcomed Laura Kate Webermeier Bishop into the Estes Valley Sunrise Rotary Club at the 7 a.m. meeting on Tuesday, April 1st 2025. Niki Gassmann is her sponsor. Laura Kate Webermeier Bishop is a proud mom of four wonderful children, wife to Bill, and co-owner/operator of the Country Market of Estes Park alongside her husband, Bill and her mother, Katie Webermeier. A true Estes Park native (Go Bobcats!), Laura Kate ventured to San Diego for college before building a career in marketing and sales across Denver, Atlanta, and Texas. Over the past 13 years in Texas, Laura Kate poured her heart into volunteer work—leading moms’ groups, organizing Cub Scouts, and coordinating programs for the PTA—all while raising her four children.
Now back in Estes Park, Laura Kate and her family are all-in on running the family business and investing in their hometown community. With Ro-
tary in her blood, she’s thrilled to dive into Club life and looks forward to getting more involved. An passionate believer in Rotary’s motto, “Service Above Self,” Laura Kate brings fresh ideas, energy, and a strong community spirit to our club. We’re excited to have her onboard!
Rotary is a global network of 1.4 million neighbors, friends, leaders, and problem-solvers who see a world where people unite and take action to create lasting change – across the globe, in our communities, and in ourselves. For more than 110 years, Rotarians have used their passion, energy, and intelligence to take action on sustainable projects. From literacy and peace to water and health, we are always working to better our world, and we stay committed to the end.
Join us! Learn more at: portal.clubrunner.ca/5242.
Like us on Facebook: www.facebook.com/ EstesValleySunriseRotary
Estes Park Rotary Club Establishes
$25,000
Matching Grant For Upcoming Memory Care Facility
The Rotary Club of Estes Park will match all donations up to $25,000 to benefit the Estes Dementia Day Center initiative. Rotarians and the public are encouraged to use this grant to double their donation amount.
The Estes Dementia Day Center is expected to open in early 2026. Its mission is to provide a safe, stimulating experience for those suffering from early to mid-stage dementia, while also allowing respite for caregivers.
This initiative hopes to raise $500,000 prior to opening, in order to ensure the sustainability of the center. Donations are tax-deductible.
Donations may be sent to: Rotary Club of Estes Park Foundation P.O. Box 1365
Estes Park, Colorado 80517
Please note EDDC in the memo line.
For more information, please contact Pete Sinnott at psinnott22@gmail.com
Niki Gassmann, Laura Kate Webermeier Bishop, and Stacey-Cole Winsor.
EDDC Logo courtesy of Pete Sinnott
“One” Is The Loneliest Number
By: Larry Strong
“One” is a song made famous by Three Dog Night. The writer, Harry Nilsson said he wrote the song after allegedly calling his girlfriend and get ting a busy signal. He reportedly stayed on the line listening to the “beep, beep, beep…” tone, writ ing the lyrics. The busy signal became the open ing notes of the song.
My recollection of this song revolves around a “not so romantic” but seemingly earth shattering heart break after the cheerleader I was dating dumped me for a much better athlete both in skill and looks. I re member listening to this song over and over while wallowing in my high school level depression. That is, until a few days later when my buddy informed me that a cute little blonde had “the hots” for me. Funny how fast one can recover from rejection.
Jesus understood. He made building unbreakable bonds with a few men the core of his strategy and it worked. Just a few hours before Jesus’ crucifixion, Peter was emphatic. “Even if I have to die with you, I will never disown you.” (Mark 14:31) There’s more to that story but men will do for love what they will do for no other reason. Jesus said, “My command is this: Love each other as I have loved you. Greater love has no one than this: to lay down one’s life for one’s friends. You are my friends if you do what I command.”
Little Things Become A Lot
By: Brian Schaffer
But there is a serious and poignant aspect of the song, “One.” It can be a lonely number if that number is you. There is good reason one of the most powerful forces in the world is our need for relationship. What we’re willing to do to be loved and to love another has been documented for thousands of years. When somebody writes a song listening to a busy signal, yearning to speak with the person he longs to talk to—well, you get my point.
The guys at Men on Fire understand the value of relationships. We know
As we approach Good Friday and Easter, on behalf of our little band of brothers called “Men on Fire,” we ask you, “Is Jesus your friend?” He desperately wants to be yours. Because of His love for you there’s absolutely no reason to be the lonely number “One.” Even if you’re married, in a relationship or surrounded by a multitude of friends, we can still be lonely without a personal relationship with the Lord. Believe me I know.
Men on Fire meets every Saturday, 8:00 a.m. at the American Legion, 850 N. St. Vrain for “Breakfast with a Purpose!” MOF is a non-denominational brotherhood of men with diverse backgrounds in life and faith journeys. We hang out to encourage and inspire each other in our understanding of Jesus and our relationship with the “One” who radically loves us.
Join us this Saturday. Instead of “One” being the loneliest number you’ll ever do, “The One” can be the best relationship you’ll ever know.
There is a children’s book about Stone Soup that brings to life a story about a hungry man who went door to door asking people to “give what you got and throw it in the pot.” He was a poor man who only had a pot and a stone, but with help from everyone in the town he was able to prepare a delicious meal to satisfy his hunger as well as others. Here’s an excerpt from the story:
the impact of their efforts. I know some of you grew up in scouting programs and know the importance of the
And that night, the whole hungry village
Feasted on soup made out of a stone! All we need is what we've got
A tasty stone and water in a pot
Little things become a lot
Tiny gifts can fill the pot
When they're shared and served up hot.
Our very own “Cub Scouts Pack 8” organized an incredibly large food drive for us. They were at Safeway on a Saturday inviting people to buy extra food items for our neighbors in need, and they had a great response. I think anytime you dress up a Cub Scout, and they make a convincing presentation, we’re going to see great results. As they are learning about the needs in our community, this is one way they are taking action to make sure no one goes hungry in the Estes Valley. We sure do appreciate the Cub Scouts, and all the other groups who help us collect food items to keep our shelves well-stocked for our neighbors.
Not only did the Cub Scouts collect food, but they secured financial donations that we were able to double, because of our matching funds that are available during April and May. The timing of their food drive and cash collection was very strategic to maximize
values that are instilled in the young minds of our future leaders. With this in mind, I would like to put out a challenge to everyone who wore the scouting uniform to make a donation in honor of the good work being done in our town through the various scouting programs. And, if you’ve ever purchased Girl Scout cookies, I’d like to see if you would be willing to make a donation to make sure we always have something sweet on our shelves to offer our neighbors. I’m always touched when I peek into The Market at Crossroads to watch people from our community shopping. Almost every time, there are mothers and fathers who are grinning ear to ear when they find a special item on the shelf that they know their kids will love to eat. And, for me, the cherry on top is that I know many of the generous people who gave, so that others might have the joy of receiving something that was offered to them at no cost. It’s absolutely amazing to experience local needs being met through local resources that are given to make sure no one is left out. We want to make sure you don’t feel left out on either side of the spectrum, so if you need a little help, come and get it, and if you could give a little help, we’d love to receive it. In fact, if you give now, it will be matched dollar-for-dollar! You can give securely online, send in a check, or drop it off in person. We’re pretty flexible on this. Thank you for whatever you can do, because little things become a lot when everyone gives whatever they’ve got.
Christian Church Of Estes Park Invites Community To Celebrate Easter
The Christian Church of Estes Park (CCEP) invites the community to celebrate Easter Sunday on April 20, 2025. This day serves as a celebration of the resurrection of Jesus Christ and the hope, grace, and new life found in Him.
Worship services will be held at 9:00 a.m. and 11:00 a.m., with children’s programming available at both services. As part of Kids Church, children 5th grade and under will enjoy an Easter egg hunt, adding to the morning’s celebration. A photo wall will be available for families to capture the occasion, and light refreshments will be provided.
“Easter is the most significant day of the year for us because it reminds us that Jesus has conquered death and offers new
seeks to provide a loving environment for all who desire to know God more deeply.
life,” said Pastor Aaron Dorman.
“This is an invitation for everyone to come and hear the good news, whether they have been part of a church before or are exploring faith for the first time.”
In response to continued growth, CCEP is expanding to new Sunday service times, 9:00 a.m. and 11:00 a.m., beginning on Good Friday, April 13. As a church dedicated to being a place where people can grow spiritually, CCEP
The community is invited to celebrate Easter at Christian Church of Estes Park, 4655 US Highway 36, Estes Park, Colorado.
About The Christian Church of Estes Park-The Christian Church of Estes Park (CCEP) is a non-denominational Christian church located in Estes Park, Colorado, that seeks to build generational, transformational disciples of Jesus. Through meaningful worship, community outreach, and enriching programs, the church invites all to join its mission of love and service rooted in Christ.
For more information, please contact the Christian Church of Estes Park at office@ccep.life or
Easter Church Services
YMCA of the Rockies-2515 Tunnel Road Estes Park, 970-586-3341 ext. 1012
Easter Sunday worship 10:00 a.m. in the Hyde Chapel.
St. Bartholomew's Episcopal Church Holy Week schedule
Palm Sunday / Sunday of the PassionApril 13 at 10:00 a.m.
Stations of the Cross - Monday, April 14-Thursday, April 17 at 1:00 p.m. each day
Maundy Thursday - April 17 at 6:30 p.m.
- Good Friday - April 18 at Noon at Shepherd of the Mountain Lutheran Church.
Easter Vigil - April 19 at 6:30 p.m.
Easter Sunday Festival Eucharist - April 20 at 10:00 a.m.
Holy Eucharist service every Wednesday at 1:00 p.m.
Visit www.stbartsepiscopalchurch.org/ for more information.
Located at 880 MacGregor Avenue, 970-586-4504.
Mount Calvary Lutheran Church
Schedule of Services at Mount Calvary Lutheran Church, 950 N. St. Vrain Ave.Estes Park, Colorado.
Wednesday, Lenten Midweek Worship Services
Maundy Thursday Worship April 17, 6:00 p.m.
Good Friday Worship April 18, Noon, 6:00 p.m.
Easter Sunday Festival Worship Service April 20, 9:00
All are welcome to join us in this season of penitence and great joy in the salvation Christ has won for us on the cross and in His glorious resurrection, which guarantees that we too shall have eternal life!
Reading of the Passion
The Passion According to St. Mark, Part Two - Tuesday, April 15th
† 10:00 a.m. - Morning Prayer & Reading of the Passion
The Passion According to St. LukeWednesday, April 16th
† 10:00 a.m. - Morning Prayer & Reading of the Passion
Maundy Thursday – Thursday, April 17th
Holy Communion Service 4:00 p.m.
† Followed by the Procession to the Altar of Repose
† The Sanctuary is laid bare
† Washing of the Feet (The Maundy)
† Watch at the Altar of Repose
Good Friday – April 18th
12 Noon - Stations of the Cross
† Followed by “The Mass of the PreSanctified”
Easter Day – April 20th
9:30 a.m. - Lighting of the New Fire & The Easter Service of Holy Communion
(Note: There will be no Morning Prayer.) We are located at 3480 St. Francis Way, Estes Park, CO. Turn from Fish Creek Rd. onto Little Valley Rd. and follow the signs to St. Francis. If you have any questions or comments, please call Bishop Williams at (970) 577-0601. And see our website at stfrancisestespark.com
Our Lady of the Mountains Catholic Church – 920 Big Thompson Ave., Estes Park, Colorado
Mass Times and Schedule for Lent and Holy Week / Easter 2025 April 11: Stations of the Cross 5:00 p.m.
8:00 a.m. Mass
10:00 a.m. Mass
Shepherd of the Mountains Lutheran Church
Lent is a season for reflection, repentance and spiritual renewal leading up to the celebration of the resurrection of Christ. All are invited to spend time with us at Shepherd of the Mountains Lutheran Church, 2000 Ptarmigan Trail, which began on Ash Wednesday, March 5. Save the following dates; Maundy Thursday, April 17-Worship at 5:30
Please join us for any or all of these meaningful times together.
St. Francis of Assisi Anglican Church
Stations of the Cross - Fridays in Lent
† 4:00 p.m. – Walking the Way of the Cross (Good Friday at 12 Noon)
Palm Sunday - Sunday, April 13th
Holy Communion Service 9:30 a.m. (Morning Prayer at 9:00 a.m.)
† Blessing & Distribution of the Palms
† The Passion According to St. Matthew (Congregation will participate)
The Passion According to St. Mark, Part One - Monday, April 14th
† 10:00 a.m. – Morning Prayer &
Holy Week: April 17: Holy Thursday – Parish Office closed at 2:00 p.m. No Mass at 8:30 a.m.
7:00 p.m. Mass
Eucharistic Adoration until 9:30 p.m.
April 18: Good Friday – Parish Office closed
No Communion Service at 8:30 Stations of the Cross 6:00 p.m.
7:00 p.m. Good Friday Mass
April 19: Holy Saturday
8:00 p.m. Easter Vigil Mass April 20: Happy Easter!
8:00 a.m. Mass
10:00 a.m. Mass
11:15 a.m. Reconciliation in Spanish
12:00 p.m. Mass in Spanish
April 21: Parish Office closed https://ourladyofthemtns.org/
If you would like your church Easter church services published here, please email them to kris@estesparknews.com by Tuesday at noon for the next Friday publication.
Experience The Real Depth Of Easter. Join Us For
All
Of Holy Week At St. Francis Church
By: Bishop Owen Williams
In the 1970s following the Palm Sunday Service every year, the Youth Group of St. Nicholas Church in Los Angeles would change out of our “Sunday Best,” load up and caravan to San Francisco. First stop would be a late
picnic lunch at Mount Calvary Monastery in Santa Barbara, California. After a visit in the Chapel and with the monks, we continued up the coast to one of the churches, either in Morro Bay or Cambria and “crash for the night.” The next day – a trip up to Hearst Castle – then Carmel. Each day began and ended with a Prayer Service, sometimes with Holy Communion. And each day, we would hear and reflect on the Gospel narratives of Christ’s Passion; Matthew, Mark and Luke.
We would arrive in San Francisco on Wednesday, tour the town – Fleishhacker Zoo, Palace of the Legion of Honor, get cleaned up and get dressed. Boys were in coat & tie, and girls in “sort-of-modest” dresses - then out to dinner at Tad’s Steak House. Exhausted, we would bunk at the Commodore Hotel on Nob Hill or the YMCA in Chinatown. The next day, Holy Communion Service at Grace Cathedral and visiting other spots we could get to by Cable Car. Friday Morning, we would hit the road through the San Joaquin Valley back to Los Angeles in time for Good Friday services.
Sometimes I feel like an Old Fogey (maybe because I am). Back in the day, we were not confronted for being
Christians, and Spring Break was known as “Easter Break.” I now understand that these yearly San Francisco trips were to keep us supervised and protect us…from our unsupervised selves. They kept us Christ-centered. We could encounter God in the rugged coastlines or ancient trees of Muir Woods, look down ninety-two feet from the catwalks of Grace Cathedral, or see “The City” from the bell towers. While it was fun and exciting, it was also Spiritual. Our whole experience of Holy Week on the road prepared us to discover
Christ’s own journey to the Cross.
What more, in God’s Name, could you ask for?
Welcome to Holy Week at St. Francis
Palm Sunday, 9:30 a.m. – Distribution of Palms and The Passion of Jesus of Nazareth, The Christ – St. Matthew; Congregation will participate.
Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday In Holy Week, 10 a.m. – Readings of the Passion – St. Mark and St. Luke.
Maundy Thursday 4 p.m. – Holy Communion, Washing of Feet, Altar of Repose.
Good Friday – 12 Noon – The Way of the Cross and Mass of the Pre-Sanctified.
Easter Day – 9:30 a.m. – Lighting of the New Fire and the Easter Service of Holy Communion.
St. Francis Anglican Church is a Traditional, Apostolic and Evangelistic Christian church nestled in the midst of the pines and aspens in Little Valley. We are located at 3480 St. Francis Way, Estes Park, CO 80517. Turn from Fish Creek Rd. onto Little Valley Rd. and follow the signs to St. Francis. If you have any questions or comments, please call Bishop Williams at (970) 577-0601. And see our website at stfrancisestespark.com.
Free Tax Preparation Service
At The Estes Valley Library
Now through April 14, volunteers from the AARP Tax Aide program are once again offering free income tax preparation with electronic filing of federal and Colorado income tax returns. Appointments can be made through the Library in person, by calling 970-586-8116 or by visiting estesvalleylibrary.org. Some restric-
Join EPUMC For Special Holy Week And Easter Services
Next week is Holy Week, the time when Christians around the world remember Christ’s passion and journey to the cross.
At Estes Park United Methodist Church, we invite everyone to special services as we worship together on
tions apply, such as no residential rental property income or out of state returns. Full-year residents aged 18 and above must file a Colorado tax return before October 15, 2025 to claim your TABOR sales tax refund (the amount varies depending on your income level).
Friday in a tangible way.
Traditional hymns such as Go to Dark Gethsemane, What Wondrous Love Is This, and Jesus, Remember Me will accompany the readings, offering space for contemplation and prayer. The service will conclude in silence, in-
Thursday, Good Friday, and Easter Sunday.
“Holy Week invites us into the full story,” explained EPUMC’s Rev. Ann Lantz. “It moves from the love shared at the table, through the sorrow of the cross, to the hope of resurrection. Each service helps us remember that God meets us in every part of the journey.”
Maundy Thursday – A Service for all the Senses – April 17, 2025, 6 p.m. EPUMC’s Maundy Thursday service will engage the whole person—body, mind, and spirit. This multi-sensory worship experience invites us to walk alongside Jesus during his final evening with his disciples. We’ll reflect on powerful themes of love, humility, strength, forgiveness, and gratitude through sight, sounds, touch, taste, and smell. This is a unique opportunity to experience the story of Jesus’s last supper in a way that is both familiar and freshly moving.
Good Friday – A Service of Shadows and Stones – April 18, 2025, 12 p.m. (Noon)
Estes Park United Methodist Church has planned a solemn and reflective Good Friday worship service titled A Service of Shadows and Stones. This deeply moving service will guide participants through the final hours of Jesus’ life, using scripture, song, prayer, and silence to reflect on the weight of the cross and the depth of Christ’s love.
Structured around a series of “shadows”—Condemnation, Separation, Sorrow, Despair, Suffering, and Death—each moment invites worshippers to enter into the story with reverence and honesty. As each shadow is read, a stone will symbolize the burden carried and the pain endured, helping us to feel the gravity of Good
viting all to leave in quiet reflection, carrying the story with them into the waiting of Holy Saturday.
EPUMC will celebrate Easter Sunday with a vibrant and hope-filled Easter worship service. This special service marks the culmination of Holy Week and proclaims the good news of resurrection with music, prayer, and celebration.
Centered on the theme Everything In Between: Grief & Hope, the service reflects on the journey from sorrow to joy, reminding us that God's grace meets us wherever we are—whether in doubt, grief, or celebration. Through Scripture, song, and a message from Pastor Ann Lantz, worshippers will be invited to encounter the Easter story in a deeply personal way.
The Chancel Choir will offer two musical selections, Ring the Easter Bells Victorious and Celebrate This Glorious Day, and the congregation will join in classic hymns such as Christ the Lord Is Risen Today and The Day of Resurrection. A special children’s message, a unison prayer of confession, and an affirmation of faith will further draw us into the joy and mystery of Easter morning.
Whether you come with confidence or questions, in celebration or in search of peace, all are welcome to share in this time of worship, community, and renewal.
“From the upper room to the empty tomb, Holy Week reminds us that God walks with us through love, loss, and new life,” said Rev. Lantz. “Easter morning is the promise that hope and love always have the last word.”
Maundy
Skip & Cindy Clarke
March 30, 1947 – March 15, 2025 - Skip March 8, 1950 – March 22, 2025 - Cindy
Skip and Cindy Clarke had a cherished and esteemed relationship for over 40 years. They were loving friends, supportive partners, and soul-mates. They found each other at the Fort Collins’ Bear and Whale in the early 80s and thereafter were inseparable in life, and also in death. Skip (Arthur Clarke), age 77, died unexpectedly on March 15, 2025, and Cindy (Cynthia Hanson Clarke), age 75, joined him a week later on March 21. They married in 1988, and lived the true meaning of their wedding vows, loving and cherishing each other from that day forward “for better, for worse, for richer, for poorer, in sickness and in health, till death do us part.”
Skip and Cindy will be remembered for the friendship and support that they generously extended to so many. They will also be remembered for working side-by-side as the creators and owners of Specialities, a footwear and collectibles shop, which was a fixture in Old Town Square from 2004 to 2016. It was known as the “Croc Shop,” but was also a place where Skip and Cindy shared their expertise and knowledge not only about shoes, but also about sports and music memorabilia.
In 1947, Skip was born to Marion and Eugene Clarke in Newark, New
Jersey where he was raised. In 1964, Skip graduated Newark's Weequahic High School where he was an outstanding athlete in every sport that he pursued. Skip joined the United States Marine Corps during the height of the Vietnam War conflict. He was stationed at Camp Lejeune in North Carolina and assigned to the Naval Air Wing. He migrated to Fort Collins in the early 1980s, where he met Cindy, the love of his life. Skip worked at the Fort Collins Elks Club and owned and operated S&S Sports Cards & Collectibles in Fort Collins. Skip's mother Marion Clarke, who died 2013, moved to Fort Collins during the last years of her life to be close to her only child.
Cindy was born in 1950, in El Paso, Texas. As a member of an Air Force family, the Hanson’s lived many places, including Wisconsin, South Dakota and England. At age 15, Cindy’s family moved to Fort Collins where she graduated from Fort Collins High School in 1968. She studied and worked at Colorado State University. Cindy also held many retail positions in Fort Collins, including eight-years managing the Mellow Yellow. She is survived by her brother Steve Hanson and his wife Annie of Estes Park; her niece Dawn Hanson Bennett (Chris) of Arvada; and her nephew Zach Hanson (Sarah) of Fort Collins. She is also survived by two nieces and two nephews Collin, Ellie, Ava, and Ian. She was predeceased by her beloved parents, Roger M. Hanson in 1992, and Marjorie Louck Hanson in 2009.
In lieu of flowers, the family suggests donation in Skip, Cindy or their adored cat Sasha’s name to the NOCO Humane Society, Larimer Campus (nocohumane.org/donation) or a charity of your choice. At this time, no services are planned, although their lives will be honored and celebrated at a later date.
Richard Life
On March 20, 2025, Richard “Dick” Aaron Life, Captain, United States Navy, died peacefully while resting, at age 85. He was with family during his final moments. He died naturally by cardiac arrest.
Born on March 10, 1940, in Parkersburg, WV to Richard Edward Life and Frances Marie Roush. He grew up in Athens, OH and Parkersburg with his younger brother and sister, Ed and Sue. He was an Eagle Scout achieving the highest Order of the Arrow. He played football and soccer in high school. He attended the United States Naval Academy, graduating class of 1962. He married Sandra, the love of his life, in the academy chapel the day after graduation.
Richard served three tours in Vietnam aboard the last of the US Navy’s WWII diesel submarines, on amphibious ships, and finally in Saigon as the Navy’s liaison to the South Vietnamese Navy. He earned his master’s degree in Russian Area Studies from Georgetown University.
During the Cold War he was the Assistant Naval Attache in the US Embassy, Moscow, USSR, 1974-1976. This was his dream assignment. He spent his career as an Intelligence Officer specializing in human intelligence. Although he wasn’t James Bond, he proudly gave 007 his assignments. He attended the Army War College and taught at each of the military academies in the US and in many other countries. His final assignment was overseeing human intelligence in Europe and the Middle East.
He gave the gift of worldly experiences to his family. While living with them in Washington, DC, the Philippines, San Diego, CA, Moscow, USSR, Norfolk, VA, Carlisle, PA, Colorado Springs (NORAD), and Munich, Germany, he and Sandra taught their children how to travel the world and to appreciate people, their cultures, food, and history.
In retirement, Richard and Sandra
lived in Ft. Collins and Estes Park, CO. He continued to teach and was the guest speaker at many events. He volunteered at the American Legion and travelled East European countries as an international election monitor. He went on church missions, including assisting surgeons in Haiti. He enjoyed hiking and biking Colorado to include hiking 14ers, biking the Courage Classic for Children’s Hospital, and the WEDU in Aspen, for children with cancer at Camp Wapiyapi.
Richard and Sandra raised an amazing family. First, they had two biological children and later completed their family by proudly adopting four children from South Korea. In total they had six wonderful children: Rick, Gretchen, Diane, Kevin, Caren, and Angelica. Their children gave them 10 grandchildren, and since 1992 he’s been known as the world’s best Papa. He is preceded in death by his daughter Gretchen, a pediatrician at Children’s Hospital, New Orleans, who tragically died in a sail boating accident in 2005. His family takes comfort knowing they have been reunited.
His legacy with family and friends will be one of contagious love and joy for all who encountered him. He was quick to laugh, eager to meet new people, passionate about sharing experiences and the last to leave a social event. His effusive zest for life and sharing of a smile and a genuine hug will be missed by all who knew and loved him.
Family and friends will hold a Celebration of Life, pun intended, on Saturday, April 26, with the service at 11:00 a.m. and reception following until 1:30 p.m., at the American Legion, 850 N. St. Vrain Ave., Estes Park.
In lieu of flowers, please donate in his name to Veterans Counseling Services at American Legion, Post 119, EstesLegion.org, or to Children’s Hospital Colorado at ChildrensColorado.org
Janice Newman
Janice Ann Newman passed away Tuesday, March 25th, 2025 at the age of 80 while doing what she loved the most, which was hiking with her husband, Bill. She was born on December 30th, 1944 in New Haven, Connecticut. Janice is survived by Bill Newman and her two sons Scott and Greg. Scott and his wife Rebecca live in Strasburg, CO and Greg and his wife Sarah live in Fort Collins, CO along with their three sons, Levi, Everett, and Kai.
Janice served as Vice President of Nursing at Pennock Hospital in Hastings, Michigan and later became the Director of Childcare Services for Spectrum Health Hospital in Grand Rapids, Michigan. She moved to Estes Park, CO in 1999 with her husband and established the organiza-
Jim Hull, 82 passed away Tuesday evening, April 2, 2025.
tion known as the Estes Valley Investment in Childhood Success. In 2007, Janice received the prestigious State of Colorado Children’s Champion Award. She was also a dedicated volunteer at Rocky Mountain National Park for 19 years with over 4,000 hours of volunteer service.
She will be fondly remembered as an exceptionally loving and caring wife, mother and grandmother. She absolutely loved the mountains, the outdoors, nature, hiking, skiing, and above all, she loved her family and the closeness of her family throughout her years. She was always supportive and encouraging to others, loved baseball, enjoyed the simple things in life and thoroughly loved her three grandchildren.
A Celebration of Life is scheduled at Allnutt Funeral Service Estes Park Chapel for June 21, 2025 from 11:00 a.m.-2:00 p.m. Contributions, if desired, may be made to St Jude’s Hospital, or to Hillsdale College of Hillsdale, Michigan. Please visit allnuttestespark.com for donation links and to leave messages to the family.
Allnutt Funeral Service of Estes Park is honored to walk alongside the Newman family during this difficult transition. Flowers may be ordered directly from The Enchanted Florist of Estes Park, CO.
Jim Hull
Jim was born in the little farming community of Wellsville, Kansas and came west to attend the University of Colorado in Boulder, where he earned a degree in marketing. There, he met and married his wife, Betty. They shared over 59 years of wonderful adventures since they both loved to travel.
In 1972, Jim began the Ore Cart Rock Shop on Elkhorn Avenue. It
was a success and led to a second store in Vail and a third one in Breckenridge. He sold his business in 2022 to Steve and Andrea Colburn, who’ve happily continued it.
Jim is survived by his wife, Betty, who is determined not to be lost in grief, but rather to concentrate on all the wonderful times and places around the world they’ve shared.
His friends all say the world will be a little poorer without him.
James Banker
James F. Banker Jr. (Jim), 77, passed away April 2, 2025 after a difficult battle with Parkinson’s Disease.
Jim was born in Omaha, Nebraska to James and Joan Banker on February 18, 1948. He spent many years of his youth as a caddy at the Omaha Country Club. After graduating from Benson High School he and his family moved to Estes Park. While working in construction he attended Metro State College.
As a contractor he started Banker and Kell custom builders. He was licensed as a real estate agent and worked for Range Realty. He married Dodi in 1976 and together owned the Christmas Shoppe and Spruce House for almost 40 years.
During his 59 years in Estes Park he gave back to the community by serving on the board of the Estes Park Bank, the Estes Park Board of Real-
tors, Estes Park Car Club, the Board of Estes Park Chamber of Commerce, PACK, and he was a member of our Lady of the Mountains Catholic Church.
Jim is survived by his wife, Dodi, of 49 years, his children (and spouses), Charity Banker Marriott (Steve), Ryan Banker (Lauren), Jamie Banker Oberson (Todd) and six grandchildren: Fern, Adisyn, Max, Jack, Shea and Charlie. Also, his sisters Sharon Schone (Dennis) and Barbara James; his brothers-in-law Steve Deats and Richard Ray; his sisters-in-law Amy Banker, Bobbie Sue Lowery (Ray), Claire Ray; his aunt Alice Chapman and many nieces, nephews and extended family. Jim is preceded in death by his mother, father, sister, Cynthia Deats, and brother, Patrick Banker.
He will be remembered for his unwavering adoration for his family and friends. When he wasn’t admiring cars and motorcycles, you would find him building, restoring, telling stories, joking and laughing, cooking, painting, golfing or reading.
Mass and a celebration of life will be held in the summer 2025. In lieu of flowers memorial donations may be made to Estes Park High School CTE (Attn: Auto Mechanics Program), The Michael J. Fox Foundation or Colorectal Cancer Alliance.
Holy Week At Presbyterian Community Church Of The Rockies
We invite everyone in the Estes Park area to come join us this Sunday, April 13th, at 10:00 a.m. at Presbyterian Community Church of the Rockies, as we begin the observance of Holy Week. Through music and the spoken word, we once again relive Christ’s triumphal entering the city of Jerusalem. Palm Sunday’s excitement and celebration soon end as the events of Jesus’ life unfolds in his last week on this earth.
The Maundy Thursday service begins at 5:00 p.m. This is the time for remembering that last night in the upper room as we, like Jesus and His disciples, take communion and sing songs together. Good Friday service is at 12:00 noon and is a brief and intimate service.
Easter, the most important Sunday in the Christian church year, is a celebration of the resurrection of Christ and this service of great music and the spoken word will bring together all the musical forces of the Presbyterian Community Church of the Rockies. This year the Highland Brass Quintet will join the Chancel choir, hand bells and Larry Gillum at the organ as they lead the congregation in worship. Pastor Rev. Dr. Christine Dempsey will give the Easter message. We look forward to sharing this service with the Estes valley residents and visitors. This service begins at 10:00 a.m. in our beautiful sanctuary at 1700 Brodie Ave in Estes Park.
From Galilee To The Cross: The Road To The Cross
Palm Sunday weekend marks a significant milestone in our journey From Galilee to the Cross. This week, we follow Jesus as He departs Jericho and travels through Bethany and Bethphage, drawing closer to the moment when He will enter Jerusalem as the promised King—a moment filled with hope, prophecy, and the promise of salvation.
Join us at Cornerstone Church of Estes Valley and New Covenant Church in Allenspark for the fourth message in this powerful series. Each service will offer a unique opportunity to reflect on Jesus' journey and the profound meaning of Palm Sunday.
Service Times:
Saturday, April 12th at 6 p.m. – New Covenant Church, 1423 Country Rd. 84W (Wild Basin Rd & CO 7), Allenspark, CO
Message by Pastor Bruce Finger
Sunday, April 13th at 10:30 a.m. – Cornerstone Church of Estes Valley, 2200 Mall Rd., Estes Park, CO
• A Powerful Message: Discover how Jesus’ journey from Jericho to Jerusalem points us to the cross and the hope of new life.
Message by Pastor Bruce Finger
What to Expect:
NOW HIRING!
Warehouse - Driver
Seeking team players to work at
$2 2 /hr
Seasonal: Full-time or Part-time eekends & some holidays required
• Uplifting
Worship: Experience inspiring music led by Jan Springer, a sought-after contemporary worship leader and the former lead singer for Orchard Creek Bluegrass Band, who will lead worship at both services.
Vehic l e Mai n te n a n ce tech n icia n
The YMCA of the Rockies Estes Park Center is the largest YMCA conference center in the world. At nearly 900 acres in size and serving over 200,000 guests each year, a dedicated team of individuals work to provide guests with a world-renowned experience. The Vehicle Maintenance Technician is responsible for assisting in the repair, maintenance and safety of the Estes Park Center vehicle fleet, including but not limited to all cars, vans, trucks and equipment. This position pays $19.63 - $21.10/hour with full benefit packages for health, dental, and life insurance, generous PTO/Vacation, participation in YMCA Retirement Fund, YMCA of the Rockies membership, discounted childcare, and the Colorado Gold ski pass. Housing may be available; more information available during the interview process.
jobs.ym ca ro c k ie s.org
• A Warm Community: Whether it’s your first visit or your hundredth, you’ll find a place to belong. Are you looking for a church filled with love, coupled with great fellowship? Then come give us a try!
If you’ve missed previous messages, you can catch up anytime on our YouTube channel, available through our website: www.ccestes.com.
–Learn more at: www.ccestes.com
Come and experience Palm Sunday in a fresh and meaningful way. This is a moment to draw closer to the heart of Jesus and prepare for the life-changing message of Easter. We can’t wait to welcome you!
aSSiSta n t cO n FeRe n ce DiRectOR
Responsible for assisting the Director of Guest Operations in all aspects of conference staff management and quality assurance to uphold established product and hospitality standards delivered to conference groups and family reunions. This is a full-time, year-round position paying $56,485 - $65,600/year, DOE, with full benefit packages for health, dental, and life insurance, generous PTO/ Vacation, participation in YMCA Retirement Fund, YMCA of the Rockies membership, discounted childcare, and the Colorado Gold ski pass.
jobs.ym ca ro c k ie s.org
Warehouse Worker
Seeking team players to work at Rocky Mountain Conservancy Retail Warehouse in Rocky Mountain National Park
$2 - 2 /hr
Seasonal: Full-time or Part-time eekends & some holidays required
Gemfire Jewelry + Crystals is looking for Retail Manager
This position reports to the Association’s Food Service Director. The primary responsibility of the Food Service Office Manager is to support the Director with the administrative needs of the Food Service Department. Duties include but are not limited to: scheduling, payroll, staffing, departmental calendars, as well as liaison between Food Service and other EPC and EXO departments. This is a full-time, year-round position paying $20.00 - $23.00/hour, DOE, with full benefit packages for health, dental, and life insurance, generous PTO/ Vacation, participation in YMCA Retirement Fund, YMCA of the Rockies membership, discounted childcare, and the Colorado Gold ski pass.
ca ro c k ie s.org
YMca OF the ROcKieS 2515 tunn e l Ro a d es te s P a rk, color a do, 80511
YMca OF the ROcKieS
2515 tunn e l Ro a d es te s P a rk, color a do, 80511
Come and join our team!
Village Laundry is in need of Attendants. Competitive pay, starting at $16.00 per hour.
Flexible hours. Year round job. Send your resume to: villagelaundry1@gmail.com or pick up application at 172 S. St. Vrain Ave.
Homes
Sunny 3 bedroom, 2 bathroom, 1 car garage home in a central and pleasant Estes Park Location.$2900/M. No smoking or Pets. 303 956 7153
Furnished Family Home.
4 bedroom 2 bath w/2 car garage and sunroom. Available April 1 with month to month lease. $2800 per month and security deposit. Utilities included, 970-624-7191
Apartments
Small studio in downtown Estes.
1-yr lease, NS/NP, single occ. $900/mo. Work Ref and Credit req’d. Call 425-818-4158
Ponderosa has long-term rentals open immediately.
Bedroom rentals at $750 per month 3 bedroom rental at $2850 per month
2 bedroom rentals at $1400 & $2500 per month
Call us today at 970-586-6500.
JOIN OUR TEAM!
Full details on employment opportunities and the application can be found at estes.org/jobs.
Regular Full-time
Administrative Assistant ITown Clerk's Office
Administrative Assistant I -
Public Works Department
Police Officer I - III
Seasonal:
Community Service Officer
Parks Maintenance Worker I/II
The status of applications will be communicated via e-mail. By choice, the Town of Estes Park is an Equal Employment Opportunity Employer.
Commercial Rentals
Charming Private Office in Historic Downtown Estes Park 166 Virginia, Suite 2, Looking for a professional, fully furnished office in the heart of Estes Park? This beautifully renovated oneperson office is located in a historic building right downtown, just steps from Bond Park, local banks, and the business district. Features & Amenities:
• Prime downtown location with signage on Virginia Drive
• All utilities included (except internet)
• Wired for Fiber Optics & High-Speed Internet via Trailblazer
• Access to a separate conference room with a large TV for Zoom meetings
• Shared kitchen with coffee setup
• Copy machine available for your business needs
Ideal for remote professionals, entrepreneurs, or anyone seeking a quiet, professional workspace in a vibrant setting.
$800 per month
Call Thom at 970-586-2448 to schedule a tour!
Commercial Rentals
Office Space for Rent 1377 Sq. Ft., Conference Room, 3 Private Offices, High Traffic Area with Great Exposure, Open Lobby Area, Printer Room. 351 Moraine Ave. Suite B 970-227-4865 nathan@kinleybuilt.com
6 RIVERFRONT OFFICES FOR RENT
Incls: Private Parking, Utilities, WiFi, A/C, Alarm System, Kitchenette Upscaled Log Building $3,000 mo. 460 Prospect Village Dr., EP
Call Bret Freedman 970-215-2494
Storage Units
For rent : 15’x 13’ x 10‘ tall storage unit. Some built in shelves. $225 / month.
Outdoor vehicle storage also available. Call Mike 970-214-8844
SERVICES
Piano Tuning
Susan Novy, local piano tuner. Call for appt. 577-1755 www.estesparkpiano tuner.com
Senior Helpers stands ready to serve with personalized, in-home care and expertly-trained professional caregivers. Join our family of caregivers –apply today!
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.
Clean driving record. Full time preferred but will also consider part time.
Email: epenterprise @outlook.com
Gro u p Sa l eS repreSe n tative
Responsible for researching, contacting, and booking new group and conference business, and negotiating terms of group contracts. This position requires the ability to work in a fastpaced, multi-tasking environment, while upholding the YMCA of the Rockies mission, policies, and programs. This position can be based out of the Estes Park or Granby location of YMCA of the Rockies. $21.00 - $23.00/hour with benefits and employee perks including medical benefits, participation in the YMCA retirement fund, generous PTO/vacation, discounted childcare, ski passes, and free or discounted gear rentals.
“A clean home is a happy home” Book us for your next cleaning! Email: alcleaningservices121@ gmail.com Phone:(970) 567-0644
Sewing/Alterations
Remixed Custom Sewing Services. Small Furniture, Restoration, Outdoor and RV Cushions, and Commercial Upholstery. Call for appointment 970-492-5446
Pet Care
Love Your Pet walking, care & house-sitting 970-391-8140
REAL ESTATE
Commercial
Commercial Spaces for sale and lease. Call Eric. Anderson Realty. 586-2950
Garage Sales
MOVING SALE
1605 Soaring Circle Sat. April 12, 8am-3pm
Furniture, home decor, area rugs, vacuum, microwave, convection oven, binoculars, snowshoes, hydro-backpack, mini trampoline, crafting supplies, more.
Estate Sales
ESTATE/MOVING SALE
Need to have one, but seems overwhelming. We do the work, you make the $. Local, Affordable, References. CALL JUDI 970-215-5548
