This long-eared local is hopping into the holiday spirit.
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Thanks to all of you who will vote in the many upcoming board elections. And – thanks to those of you who choose to run for the different boards in town. Without abundant civic participation, Estes Park would not benefit from the breadth of opinion and depth of wisdom that is needed for good progress.
skilled folks to choose from for that board: adept in medicine, quality, finances, operations – and all of them seem to value good, open communication.
We need you now for several other board and commission positions: the Planning Commission, the Housing Authority, the Board of Adjustment, and the Transportation Advisory Board. You can contact the Town Clerk’s office for information about applying. Estes Park Needs You!
There’s a lot board action in town right now. Fortunately, we have many strong candidates stepping up. Diversity of membership and change of membership over time is good for Estes. “Diversity” doesn’t just mean cultural and ethnic variety. It can include differences in occupational background, age, gender, perspective, personality, and more.
There are several Larimer County special tax districts that are holding elections on May 6. These special tax districts are of high importance to residents and visitors alike, but are not overseen by the Town of Estes Park. Operations of these service organizations run best when overseen by strong, transparent boards.
The Park Hospital District Board (Estes Park Health) has five candidates of varying backgrounds, three of whom I worked with during my long tenure at the hospital (2005-2023). During my years at EPH, I worked with ten different administrations and, through them all, one of my mantras was that “communication is everything.” We have some very
Community Garden Updates
There are still plots available in the community garden so sign up before April 30! Adopt a duck for the Estes Valley Community Garden!
There is a fund-raiser being held by the Town employees for a donation to the community garden. They are hosting "Brats on the Barbie" at the Grandstands at the EP Events Center on May 29th from 11:30 a.m. to 1:00 p.m. For a suggested donation of $5, including a brat, chips, cookie and a drink, the proceeds will go to the Estes Valley Community Garden.
I strongly support wrapping up the deal with UCHealth. Even if some concessions must be made to UCHealth, there’s nothing more important for EPH’s long-term stability and effective operations than getting that deal done. There will be hard times again, and the financial health and enlightened management of UCHealth will be critical when those times come. Think of capital projects of the future, maintenance of equipment, upkeep on EPH’s various properties: medicine is the core service, but first you have to keep the doors open and the equipment working.
The Estes Valley Fire Protection District also has a great slate of candidates, nine for five seats, including a past fire chief and an incumbent board member, but also some others with varied backgrounds who will hopefully mesh together to re-strengthen the group. That board has had some ups and downs in recent months and years. It’s time to put a strong, open team together, with eyes wide open to the issues of the past. Several candidates have firefighting experience, there are a couple of legal eagles, there are some who bring great business backgrounds.
Then there’s the Estes Valley Recreation and Parks District, with three fine candidates for two seats, including one who currently serves on that board. I enjoyed the comment in the Estes Valley Voice: “The three candidates expressed respect for one another . . . and all three said they were not running ‘against’ the other candidates but were running to serve the community.” Good to hear!
The Visit Estes Park Board is challenged right now, with one of my fellow
trustees raising strong concerns about governance. At some not-far-future date, there will be a combined meeting of the Larimer Board of County Commissioners and our Town Board (total of ten officials) considering the issues. The VEP board responded, and you can read all about those exchanges in the local media. I will work to ensure that this process will be run respectfully for all involved. I have spent a lot of time learning about the history of VEP: successes, conflicts, issues, the people. There are a lot of emotions and opinions swirling about, and I’ll work with our trustees and the county commissioners to try to take the best path toward resolution in the most fair and open way possible.
Our Transportation Advisory Board membership will be up for discussion also, after one of our trustees raised a request to consider changes. Our Town Board will consider this issue in the notfar future. The same commitment applies from me: even-handedness as we work through the issue.
Human beings grow through education, through friendship, through parental guidance, through experiences in work and play – and sometimes we grow through trauma and hard times. So do the agencies of human beings. I’m convinced that, in Estes, we generally have respectful, honest people on Estes boards, who want to serve their community well.
If we work together, maintain civility, and stay involved, this time of transition will lead to greater strength and balance in our boards.
Thanks to all who are running – and most importantly – please vote!
EVFPD firefighters generally respond to medical calls in their personal vehicles, allowing for a faster response. On other incidents, firefighters respond to a fire station to respond in department apparatus with specialized equipment.
During the week of April 6th, 2025, the Estes Valley Fire Protection District (EVFPD) responded to 11 calls for service. This included: •Emergency Medical (assist EPH): 2 •Alarm Activation: 5
•Odor Investigation: 3
•Possible Structure Fire (Unconfirmed): 1
www.estesvalleyfire.org www.estesvalleyfire.org
Important Local Election Information
Three Estes Valley Special District Elections
Registered voters who live in or own property within each taxing district may vote that district’s ballot. Make sure you are registered to vote with your correct address by April 14th to receive your ballot at GoVoteColorado.gov. Ballots cannot be forwarded.
www.youtube.com/watch?v=6gTcisF2LZQ
At BallotTrax.coloradosos.gov voters can receive notifications about the status of their mail ballots, from the time their County Clerk & Recorder mails the outgoing ballot to when their mailed ballot is received and counted.
Park Hospital District eph.org/aboutus/board-of-directors/may-2025-boardelection. Ballots will be mailed to eligible voters the week of April 14th. Ballots can be submitted by mail or placed in the drop box at the Estes Park Hospital, 555 Prospect Ave: Mon.-Fri. 4/14-5/5 from 9 a.m.-4 p.m., and on May 6, 7 a.m.-7 p.m. Two board positions to serve four-year terms will be filled. To view the recording of the League’s April 7th live candidate forum see
Estes Valley Fire Protection District www.estesvalleyfire.org/board-of-directors This will be a polling place election, with the option of obtaining an absentee ballot. Voting is at the Estes Valley Community Center, lower level, 660 Community Drive on Tuesday May 6, 7 a.m. – 7 p.m. Three board positions for 4-year terms and 2 board positions for 2-year terms will be filled.
Estes Valley Recreation and Park District evrpd.com/board-of-directors.
Need to scroll down to see election information. This will be a polling place election, with the option of obtaining an absentee ballot. Voting is at the Estes Valley Community Center, lower level, 660 Community Drive on Tuesday May 6, 7 a.m. – 7 p.m. Two board positions to serve four-year terms will be filled. For election questions, contact Voterservice@lwv-estespark.org Your vote can make a difference!
Town Board To Hear Report On Electric Rates April 22; Customer Participation Encouraged
To ensure continued reliable utility services and plan for future capital improvement projects, the Town of Estes Park periodically reviews the cost of providing electric services as well as projected revenue – the rates paid by customers. The Town’s Power & Communications division is a cost-based enterprise that relies solely on user fees to operate. Costs and revenues must be balanced in order to maintain operations and keep utilities in line with current practices. Rate studies also ensure equitable rates among customer classes, so that one customer class does not subsidize another.
The rate study results will be reported to the Town Board at its April 22 study session. Additional discussions on electric rates will occur at Town Board meetings.
April 22 (confirmed): Town Board report and discussion, rate study results
May 13 (tentative): Town Board to review draft rate plan and consider setting public hearing dates
June 10 (tentative): Town Board public hearing on proposed rate plan
June 24 (tentative): Second Town
Board public hearing to consider adoption of the proposed rates
Final meeting dates and complete details will be available at estes.org/boardsandmeetings.
Municipal electric utilities involve two major operations – the distribution of electricity and capital improvements to the system. A few examples of future and ongoing system improvements include:
Software modernization to support the transition away from coal-fired electric generation.
Reconstruction of power lines from Old Man Mountain to Moraine Avenue/US 36 to support utility-scale batteries, which will support the transition away from coal-fired electric generation.
Installation of tree-cable, otherwise known as covered conductors, in the Allenspark area and within the Estes Valley.
For more information on the electric rate study, please contact the Utilities Department at 970-577-3588. Updates will also be available at estes.org/ electricrates.
Visit Estes Park Launches Tourism Master Plan To Shape Sustainable Future For Estes Valley
Visit Estes Park is partnering with Clarity of Place to develop a comprehensive Tourism Master Plan that will guide the future of tourism in the Estes Valley over the next five years and beyond. This communitydriven roadmap will inform sustainable tourism growth, product development, destination branding, and help define the role of tourism in the community’s long-term vision.
The Tourism Master Plan will benefit residents, tourism-related businesses, visitors, and the local economy. Its recommendations will be shaped by industry and marketing data, stakeholder engagement, and resident input to ensure a balanced, sustainable approach that reflects the values and needs of the entire Estes Park community.
“Tourism impacts nearly every sector of our local economy—from our small businesses to public services and natural spaces,” said Mike Zumbaugh, interim CEO of Visit Estes Park. “The Tourism Master Plan gives our community a voice in shaping how tourism evolves in the years ahead. It’s about working together to ensure that the Estes Valley remains a vibrant, welcoming, and sustainable place to live, work, and visit.”
As part of this collaborative effort, VEP distributed a Stakeholder Sentiment Survey earlier this month to gather insights on how visitation patterns impact local organizations and quality of life. The results will di-
rectly inform the Tourism Master Plan and be shared at the upcoming Tourism Summit.
Following the Tourism Summit, we will launch a Resident Sentiment Survey with questions tailored specifically to those who live in the Estes Valley. This survey will provide the opportunity to share valuable feedback on how tourism impacts them as a resident.
Business owners, residents, and community members who are passionate about Estes Park’s future are invited to participate in a collaborative visioning session at the 2025 Tourism Summit. The session will offer attendees a chance to contribute feedback and collaboratively shape the final version of the plan.
The Summit will be held Tuesday, April 30, from 8 a.m. to noon at the Holiday Inn Conference Center.
Attendees will enjoy breakfast and engage in key sessions, including the community visioning session led by Clarity of Place, 2024 Annual Report, and data-driven insights from tools like Placer.ai and Tourism Economics. The event will also preview what is ahead in 2025.
Get additional details and register for the event at VEP 2025 Tourism Summit.
The 2025 Tourism Summit is made possible by the generous support of Miles Partnership, Granicus, and Turner: A Shipyard Collective.
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 para-
dise 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.
Community Invited To Pick Up Free Blue Spruce Saplings April 26
The Town of Estes Park will give away 300 free blue spruce saplings to celebrate Arbor Day 2025. This event takes place on Saturday, April 26, 10 a.m. to 12 p.m. or while supplies last, outside the Town’s new greenhouse at the Parks Division yard, 600 Big Thompson Ave. Participants should park at the Estes Park Visitor Center, 500 Big Thompson Ave., and walk through the large, driveway gate located at the east end of the parking lot. Signs will be posted. Trees will be given on a first-come, first-served basis, with a limit of two trees per person. Again this year, the Town will provide a free potting station, complete with pots and soil, as well as
care and planting instructions. Support for this event comes from Platte River Power Authority, the Town’s wholesale electric provider, which donated the funds for the saplings, pots and soil. The Town of Estes Park is proud to receive the designation of “Tree City, USA” in 2025. This is the Town’s 28th year to achieve the title from the Arbor Day Foundation. More information on this designation is available at arborday.org/programs/treecityusa. For more information on the tree giveaway, please contact Brian Berg, Parks Supervisor and Certified Arborist, at 970-577-3783 or bberg@estes.org.
Transponder Sales And Renewals To Resume At Rocky Mountain National Park Beginning
Sunday, April
13
Beginning this Sunday, April 13, voluntary automated gate transponders will again be available for purchase on Sundays at Rocky Mountain National Park’s Beaver Meadows Visitor Center between the hours of 9 a.m. to noon and 1 p.m. to 4 p.m. These devices are available to interested annual and lifetime passholders, including RMNP, America the Beautiful, Senior, Military, Veterans, Access and Fourth grade passes. For individuals who purchased a transponder from February to June 2024, transponder renewals will also available.
Due to unforeseen technical difficulties, transponder sales have not been available since June of 2024. Technical challenges have been resolved and interested pass holders are eager for this voluntary amenity to be available once again.
Transponder lanes assist passholders and park staff by reducing queuing and congestion at entrance stations particularly on busy winter weekends, as well as prior to 9 a.m. and after 2 p.m. during months when timed entry reservations are in place.
Visitors who choose to purchase this optional transponder device will be able to enter RMNP using the transponder lane at Beaver Meadows and Fall River Entrances. A new transponder lane will be available on the west side of the park at the Grand Lake Entrance later this year. The previous transponder lane at Grand Lake Entrance was destroyed in the 2020 East Troublesome Fire.
A transponder is a small, credit cardsized device that must be attached to a vehicle’s windshield. The amenity fee for
those interested in this voluntary transponder is $15. One transponder may be purchased per valid annual or lifetime pass and the transponder is valid for up to one year. For those who are renewing transponders purchased between February to June 2024, the $5 renewal rate will be waived. Renewals must be done in person. All future transponder renewals will be $5 after the initial purchase.
Transponders must be attached to the inside, top-right corner (passenger side) of a vehicle’s windshield and are non-removable, non-transferable, and non-refundable. When using a transponder in the park, visitors must have their passes with them as well.
In 2004, Rocky Mountain National Park constructed a fast pass lane at the Beaver Meadows Entrance and in 2011, an additional fast pass lane was installed at the Grand Lake Entrance. Rocky Mountain National Park was one of the only national parks with fast pass lanes for visitors. Visitors who purchased an annual park pass or lifetime pass were able to use their pass to operate the automated gate. However, in 2019, the National Park Service modified the format of annual and lifetime passes. The new national passes were not compatible with the park’s gate system technology. As a result, the fast pass gate was not operational for the last few years. To address this challenge, RMNP transitioned to windshield transponders for interested annual and lifetime passholders to access a new transponder lane during the times of day when timed entry is not in effect.
For additional information on Rocky Mountain National Park, visit www.nps.gov/romo or call the park’s Information Office at (970) 586-1206.
Transponder Lane at Fall River Entrance. Photos courtesy RMNP
A transponder device that has been correctly placed on the inside of vehicle's windshield.
The Chamber And Economic Development & Workforce Council Launch Entrepreneurial Book Club
By: Estes Chamber of Commerce
Have you ever wondered about what inspires some of the best minds in business?
Have you ever learned a hard lesson and wished someone would have told you to avoid that mistake? The Estes Chamber of Commerce and Economic Development & Workforce Council are teaming-up to do just that –support your business success by learning from the experiences and motivations of the best minds of our generation.
“We’ve decided to launch a leadership development and business successoriented book club that will be meeting quarterly to discuss a pivotal topic to our local business owners,” said Chamber President Colleen DePasquale. “We can all learn from the experiences of others and share our own trials and successes to help Estes Valley businesses thrive, faster, and you don’t have to be a Chamber member to participate,” she added.
Each quarter, the Chamber and EDWC will select a book for participants to read and host two book club meetings to discuss the book. One session will be held in the morning called Coffee + Books at Inwell + Brew. The second session will be an evening discussion group called Books + Brews, which will rotate between the four local breweries.
The first book, for May 2025, will be Atomic Habits by James Clear (Building
better habits for success). As Clear describes the goal of the text: No matter your goals, Atomic Habits offers a proven framework for improving-every day. James Clear, one of the world's leading experts on habit formation, reveals practical strategies that will teach you exactly how to form good habits, break bad ones, and master the tiny behaviors that lead to remarkable results.
Book Club participants may purchase Atomic Habits through Macdonald Book Shop at a 15% discount https://macdonaldbookshop.com/event/preorder/ or participants may pick-up a copy of the book at the Estes Valley Library, with a valid library card.
“Participants will have until May 22nd to finish the book and then we’ll offer two different meeting options for discussions,” DePasquale added. “We will have a morning Coffee + Books session at InkWell and Brew on May 22nd from 8:30 a.m.- 10:00 a.m. and an evening Books + Brews at Avant Garde Aleworks on May 28th from 5:30 p.m. – 7:00 p.m. Grab your copy of Atomic Habits and get ready to learn and grow! Future book selections for 2025 book club events will include The Infinite Game by Simon Sinek, Dare to Lead by Brene' Brown, and Essentialism by Greg McKeown.
Hospital District Board Meeting Set For April 30
The next meeting of the Park District Board will take place on Wednesday, April 30 at 5:30 p.m. The meeting will be online only. You can register to join online by using this link: Meeting In-
formation - Estes Park Health.
After registering, you will receive a confirmation email containing information about joining the webinar.
Volunteers Needed For Spring Clean Up Day
Are you frustrated when you see trash along Estes Park’s roadsides and adjoining areas? If so, we have a plan to return these sites to their natural beauty, and we need your help.
On Saturday, April 26, we will hold the annual Spring Community Cleanup event and send all of this trash to the Larimer County Landfill. We will meet at 9 a.m. in the parking lot on the east side of the Visitor’s Center to hand out route assignments and orange bags. Each route is designed to require about 1 ½ hours to clean up.
We recommend you wear a longsleeved shirt, long pants, sturdy footwear, work gloves, and bring sun protection, hand sanitizer and tick spray. Bring a friend and it will go twice as fast! Bring the kids and make it a fun way to learn how good it feels to do something nice for our community.
You should quickly see orange bags filled with trash, popping up all over town. In the afternoon, Town workers will pick them all up and deliver them to the Marina, where there is a dumpster
provided by the Estes Valley Recreation and Park District. We are thankful to the Town, the Rotary Club of Estes Park, and the EVRPD for making this event possible. If you have a group that would be willing to do a little larger area, we would be happy to hear from you. We can give you an assignment ahead of time, and you can pick up bags at the Marina the week prior to the event.
Even if several groups sign up, we still need more volunteers! There is no need to sign up in advance - just show up on Saturday morning.
In case of inclement weather, please come and pick up a route and orange bag, and then do your pick-up at your earliest convenience. In that case, the dumpster at the Marina will remain available as long as necessary for people to bring in their orange bags. We thank you for your participation in this valuable annual community event! For additional information, please contact Tara at tara@aspenbrookinvestments.com or Beth at weisberg.family@verizon.net.
Election Details Finalized For The Park Hospital District Board Of Directors
On Tuesday, May 6, 2025, an election will be held to fill the two forthcoming open positions on the Park Hospital District (PHD) Board of Directors, the team responsible for providing oversight, financial health and quality initiatives for Estes Park Health.
Five self-nominated candidates are running for the open positions:
- Max Salfinger
- Thomas E. Leigh
- Tim Cashman
- Ralph Strickland
- Janet E. Zeschin
Bios and answers to the following five questions for each candidate are available on the Estes Park Health website at May 2025 Board Election - Estes Park Health.
- Why did you decide to run for the Park Hospital District Board?
- Describe any attributes, skills or experience you have that would make you an effective Park Hospital District board member?
- Describe your past experience serving on boards and what you did to make those boards effective.
- What are the three most important issues facing the Park Hospital District and how should the Board address these issues?
- Are you for or against the possible partnership with UCHealth and describe your reasons for or against the partnership.
The members of the Board, which is comprised of elected Estes Park residents, serve a four-year term. The PHD Board will swear in the elected members at the first board meeting after the certification by the Election Canvas Board.
Ballot and Voting Information
Ballots for this election will be put in the mail to eligible voters, which includes any registered voter who lives in the Park Hospital District, between Monday, April 14 and Monday, April 21. If you are eligible to vote in the election but have not received your ballot by Saturday, April 26, please contact the Designated Election Official, Sarah Shepherd, at 303-482-1002 or info@ccrider.us.
All completed ballots must be received via mail or ballot box by 7 p.m. on Tuesday, May 6, 2025.
Mailed ballots must be delivered at the Designated Election Official’s office by 7 p.m. on Tuesday, May 6. Instructions will be included with the ballot.
Alternatively, ballots may be dropped off at one of two secure locations:
- In the locked drop box in the front lobby of the main entrance of Estes Park Health Monday through Friday from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m., or from 7 a.m. to 7 p.m. on Tuesday, May 6. The hospital is located at 555 Prospect Ave. in Estes Park.
- In the locked drop box in the office of Sarah Shepherd, the Designated Election Official, Monday through Friday from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. or from 7 a.m. to 7 p.m. on Tuesday, May 6. This office is located at 1100 West Littleton Blvd. in Littleton, Colo. Please call 303-482-1002 or email info@ccrider.us prior to your arrival to ensure the staff is available.
Unofficial election results will be available on Wednesday, May 7. The Election Canvas Board will meet to certify the election results on May 20, after the deadline for receipt of ballots from Uniformed and Overseas Citizens Absentee Voting Act (UOCAVA) voters.
How The Bunny Hopped Into An Easter Tradition
By: Deena Sveinsson, front page photographer this
week.
The history of the Easter Bunny is a "tell-tailing” story!
Germans have a tradition called “Osterhase.”
This Easter tradition involves a hare that leaves brightly covered eggs in nests that are made by children. Historians believe
that this tradition arrived in the United States in the 1700s with German immigrants that settled in Pennsylvania. Slowly, the story of the egg-laying hare morphed into the Easter Bunny. The Easter Bunny, with it’s floppy ears and bushy tail, leaves candy and treats for children on Easter morning.
Often a special treat in baskets are chocolate rabbits. The chocolate rabbit craze is credited to Robert L. Strohecker, a Pennsylvania drug store owner that displayed a five-foot-tall chocolate rabbit in his shop in 1890. The "hare raising" display was the beginning of another tradition of buying and eating chocolate bunnies on Easter.
We’ve been celebrating National Poetry Month for a couple of weeks now. Several readers have sent me poems they either wrote or particularly enjoy. I’ll be sharing some of those next week. Today I’m offering up a few of the poems from my annual poetry salon, a small event I’ve been hosting regularly in April since 2009.
This year was unique in that a theme emerged—the intermingling of lives here and lives gone from here, yet still with us. Most of the poems were written by kin of the readers. The first is by Cecil Miller (1906-1998) father of my friend Lauren. It is the shorter of the two poems by Cecil which Lauren read, but no better or worse than the longer poem about collecting junk. Here is Cecil Miller’s “The Piebald World”:
Let there be light said God in haste Thinking he’d granted a boon Said Adam and Eve with time to waste Good Lord let it be not too soon.
Well then said God let me have some Time, say one half-day for light
While those for whom light’s wearisome Can have the rest, the night.
But too much light said Adam and Eve Is worse than too much dark. We’d like blind spots and make believe So truth will be less stark.
May it be so the Lord agreed Let light and night abound I’ll keep them fully filigreed Entwined the world around.
Thus did this piebald world emerge Part human, half-divine A scene where lies and truth converge With no dividing line.
Ann read a poem by her cousin’s husband, David Lee Garrison (1945 – ), called “On a Line by Thomas Lynch.” (Thomas Lynch is a fellow poet—and an undertaker in Michigan.)
Life goes on. The dead are everywhere. They make the floorboards creak like ships at sea, they wink from glistening streetlights here and there.
They read the book we’re reading, touch our hair.
They walk beside us though we cannot see or hear their steps. They constantly declare
themselves in letters we have saved. We stare at those who favor them. The cypress trees protect their souls like nesting birds. They are not “in a better place,” they’re here. In air, in water, earth, and fire. The timpani of life beats on in death. This world is where
they linger, waiting for us. Say a prayer for the dead, that they may always be around us, in our homes, and in the flare
of memories, so we do not despair.
They make their way across the river, we can only see them off. We’re in their care as life goes on. The dead are everywhere.
I like the idea that my mother, gone from Earth almost three years now, is reading the book I’m reading over my shoulder, touching my hair with her spirit breath.
The poem I submitted for the poetry salon is one called “Those Winter Sundays” by Robert Hayden. Parenting is thankless work, as perfectly described in this poem, yet parents tirelessly continue to tend to the needs of their children. It makes me feel better to imagine that perhaps the father in this poem had hopes that someday his child would become a famous poet and write about his father’s devotion.
Sundays too my father got up early and put his clothes on in the blueblack cold, then with cracked hands that ached from labor in the weekday weather made banked fires blaze. No one ever thanked him.
I’d wake and hear the cold splintering, breaking.
When the rooms were warm, he’d call, and slowly I would rise to dress, fearing the chronic angers of that house,
Speaking indifferently to him, who had driven out the cold and polished my good shoes as well. What did I know, what did I know of love’s austere and lonely offices?
Finally, what’s a poetry reading without a poem about a dog? Here is one by Charley (Hammer’s) buddy J. Harry Jones, Jr., written when Charley got yet another basset pup. (Today, Charley’s current basset came to him already named: Charley.) Jones’ poem is called “Welcome To A New Basset”:
It’ll make me dizzy and keep me busy Counting the charms of the basset hound Lizzy.
Her nose, her tail, her eyes, each ear All makes this puppy without peer.
A licker, a lover, a mischievous clown, She’s the newest jewel in the Hammer crown.
Ah, the basset; What an asset!
This entire column of poetry led us to those two perfect lines!
You may let The Thunker know what you think at her e-mail address, donoholdt@gmail.com.
Estes Park Women’s Golf Association (EPWGA) Season Set To Begin
We are so excited to begin our 18hole golf season on Tuesday, May 6! That day starts with 18 holes of play. We have many returning members and some new members as well. EPWGA invites YOU to join our community of golfers for a season of fun, friendly competition, and camaraderie on the course. We are a group of women who love the game of golf and enjoy spending time together, welcoming new ladies and providing an opportunity to learn the rules and etiquette of the game. Each Tuesday we play different, fun games generated by the Golf Genius app. Best of all, we get outdoors each Tuesday and enjoy our breathtakingly beautiful Estes Park 18-hole Golf Course. Please contact Diane Butler at dibutler04@gmail.com with any questions and we’ll see you on the links!
Kiwanis Club Program Expansion
Kiwanis International is a global organization of volunteers dedicated to improving the world one child and one community at a time. The Kiwanis Club here in Estes Park was activated in the 1950s and has successfully honored that mission up to the present in many projects in support of our youth and community. Today, for youth, our Kiwanis sponsors and supports the Key Club at the High School, supports the Bring Up Grades (BUGS) program at the middle school, provides scholarships for high school graduates, and is deeply involved in the Key Leadership program which provides leadership training for high school students in our Rocky Mountain District.
Today, we would like your help in the expansion of two youth programs:
1. The restart of the Builders Club in the Estes Park Middle School. This student community service program became inactive during the COVID pandemic and we plan to begin it again this fall.
2. Additional financial need scholarships for graduating high school seniors.
We see two ways that can help us financially.
1. Click on “Kiwanis Club” in your purchase of Duck Race tickets.
2. Send a check to our Estes Park Kiwanis Club Foundation, P.O. Box 2311, Estes Park, CO 80517.
If you have questions or would like to join us in our activities, please contact Kathy Littlejohn at (970) 218-6005.
Estes
Park Quota Club Wants To Help!
EspañolEstes Park Quota Club quiere ayudar!"
The better you hear, the healthier your brain is! A study from the Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health shows that using hearing aids can decrease the risk of dementia by 32%! Learn more about Quota Club's Hearing and Speech work in Estes Park at estesparkquota.com/contact-info
¡Cuanto mejor escuche, más sano estará su cerebro! Un estudio de la Escuela de Salud Pública Bloomberg de Johns Hopkins muestra que el uso de audífonos puede reducir el riesgo de demencia en un 32 %. Obtenga más información sobre el trabajo de audición y habla de Quota Club en Estes Park en https://estesparkquota.com/contactinfo
Submitted by: Tim Cashman
My name is Tim Cashman. And yes, I am a former Chief Financial Officer (CFO) for Estes Park Health. I worked there from May 2017 through July 2021. I've been working in this industry for over 30 years in three different communities in Colorado, specifically Gunnison, Glenwood Springs and Estes Park. I am retired, yet I believe my skill set can be of value to the community and to EPH. I am well-skilled and practiced in the industry of Critical Access Hospitals. I would like to be of help, particularly with the ongoing plan to affiliate with UCHealth. We have worked with UCHealth before, including the conversion to EPIC, the Electronic Medical Record and Accounting systems, in addition to most patient referrals. So, we know these folks, both in Clinical Administration. I have decades of experience working with hospital boards as a Chief Financial Officer. I have not served on a hospital board, but I am very familiar with the processes and rules. My experience in Administration gives me a very broad and deep understanding of the issues facing healthcare institutions. First and foremost, we need Estes Park Health to survive, it is a vital asset
Tim Cashman Running For Park Hospital District Board
and a key economic driver for our community. It will be important to keep critical services and jobs. That is the single key factor to survival. It is important to make sure that Estes Park Health is a desirable place of employment for all different positions, physicians, managers, technicians, nurses, and support operational staff. We need to recognize that the staff members are among our most valuable resources. Secondly, we need to stabilize finances. Finally, we need to sort out and conclude the proposed affiliation with UCHealth.
I do believe that affiliation in concept could be beneficial to the financial health and administrative oversight of Estes Park Health. However, with very few details of the proposed affiliation, despite the two years that have passed, it is difficult to assess what the complete impact will be. We need more information as to the details of this discussion to make accurate judgements, to ensure EPH’s best interests.
There are five qualified, well-intended candidates running for two seats on the Park Hospital District Board. I believe my experience and vision will be very helpful to the long-term success of our collective and very important community asset, Estes Park Health. Accordingly, I appreciate your support.
First Ever Estes Park Volksmarch
July 12
Saturday, 12 July, 8 a.m.-2 p.m. The first-ever traditional volksmarch in town. 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
DINER & BAR HOURS DINER & BAR HOURS
Hours: Hours: M-W 3-9pm M-W 3-9pm Th-Sat 11-9pm Th-Sat 11-9pm Sun 11-6pm Sun 11-6pm Post 119
850 N Saint Vrain Ave Estes Park, CO 80517 970-586-6118 | www.esteslegion.org Open to the public Open to the public
Weekly Happenings Weekly Happenings
SATURDAY ALL DAY hAPPY HOUR ON STARTERS.
QUEEN OF HEARTS
WEDNESDAY Cheeseburger & any draft beer $12.
THURSDAY Kids eat free. 12 & under off the kids menu.
MONDAY FRIDAY MARGARITAS $6/PINT. TACOS $4/EA. Bingo 6PM. Fish & Chips Special $14.
Locals lunch specials til 3pm. live music. queen of hearts DRAWING 7pm.
SUNDAY HAPPY HOUR ALL DAY. LEGION ALE, PBR, & ALL WELLS. EVERY DAY 3-5PM HAPPY HOUR
event just in time for the 2025 gardening season in the Estes Valley. These informal events are the perfect place to ask questions about plant selection and care, pruning trees and shrubs, and others. This year Merle will bring photos of his own garden comprised of a small mixed perennial border and a small native plant meadow to share with you.
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
Are you a gardener new to the Estes Valley who would love to have a list of trees, shrubs, and perennial plants that really do perform well at this altitude. Do you wish you had an opportunity to ask a horticulturist with over 40 years of professional experience some gardening or landscaping questions? Do you enjoy a hot cup of herbal tea or a really good cup of coffee? If you answered “yes” to the questions above, do I have a deal for you!
Shannon McGlothen, owner of Raven’s Roast Coffee Lounge has invited Merle M. Moore, former Executive Director of Denver Botanic Gardens, to return to Raven’s Roast Coffee Lounge to do another garden Q & A
Stop by Raven’s Roast Coffee Lounge at 164 E. Elkhorn Ave., Wednesday afternoon, April 30, anytime between 3:00 p.m. and 5:00 p.m., to meet Mr. Moore and ask him your gardening questions. Residents of the Estes Valley may request an annotated plant list of Mr. Moore’s recommended water-wise and fire-resistant landscape plants. The list also indicates those plants that are suitable for full sun to shade, that are attractive to native pollinators and hummingbirds, and that are deer and rabbit tolerant.
You will find Raven’s Roast Coffee Lounge facing Confluence Park and the River Walk in George Hix Plaza. Shannon and Merle are looking forward to seeing you there.
Rotary Club Of Estes Park Has Achieved 100% Paul Harris Come Join Us To Celebrate Thursday, April 24th
The presentation of Paul Harris Fellow recognition is The Rotary Foundation's way of expressing its appreciation for a substantial contribution to its humanitarian and educational programs. It is named for our founder, Paul Harris, a Chicago lawyer who started Rotary International with three business associates in 1905. We are celebrating every member’s contribution.
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 22nd if joining us for lunch.
Rosa 'Austrian Copper,' an early blooming shrub rose.
Rocky Mountain National Park Celebrates
National Park Week, National Volunteer Week, Earth Day, And National Junior Ranger Day With Fun Activities For All Ages
Celebrate National Park Week, National Volunteer Week, Earth Day, and National Junior Ranger Day at Rocky Mountain National Park. What is National Park Week? This is a week-long celebration of our national parks that takes place annually in the month of April. This year, National Park Week begins on Saturday, April 19 and continues through Sunday, April 27, 2025. Rocky Mountain National Park will be celebrating in person and online.
On Saturday, April 19:
National Park Week kicks off with a fee free day. All park entrance fees will be waived on this date. Camping, overnight wilderness backpacking, and all other administrative fees remain in effect.
Join us at Rocky’s Earth Day & National Junior Ranger Day Events!
On the east side of the park near the town of Estes Park, join NPS and Rocky Mountain Conservancy staff at Beaver Meadows Visitor Center from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. Explore booths and fun interactive activities for visitors of all ages. This event is free and open to the public.
Earn your Junior Ranger badge
Learn about different plants and wildlife that call Rocky home
Learn about hiking safety
Participate in an interactive Rocky Lab activity
Decorate a tree cookie and more!
On the west side of the park near the town of Grand Lake, join NPS staff at Kawuneeche Visitor Center for a Junior Ranger Day celebration. From 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. enjoy fun activities for visitors of all ages. This event is free and open to the public. Family-friendly activities will include:
Earn your Junior Ranger badge
Participate in Animal Olympics and other fun games
Learn about wildlife at the Discovery Table
Enjoy storytime and crafts from 10 a.m. to 11 a.m. with Juniper Librarian Sue Luton and more!
Additional park ranger-led programs and activities will be happening all week long!
On Sunday, April 20:
Join us on the east side of RMNP at Beaver Meadows Visitor Center at 2 p.m. for the program “Efforts to Restore Boreal Toad Populations in RMNP,” presented by Jonathan Lewis, Conservation Biology Program Manager for Rocky Mountain National Park. This special program is the final
presentation in Rocky Mountain National Park and Rocky Mountain Conservancy’s 2025 Winter Speaker Series. To learn more, visit rmconservancy.org.
For RMNP’s full National Park Week program schedule, visit the park’s webpage at go.nps.gov/romo/npweek.
Unable to visit in person? Join Rocky’s digital celebration! Visit our webpage and check out RMNP’s page
on the NPS App. Follow us @RockyNPS on Facebook, Instagram, and Twitter. We’ll be sharing fun and interesting facts and stories related to this year’s program theme “Your National Park Playlist.”
To learn more about Rocky Mountain National Park and to plan for your next trip, visit our website at www.nps.gov/romo, download the NPS App, or call the park’s Information Office at (970) 586-1206.
Photos courtesy RMNP
Estes Park Health Celebrates 50 Years Of Serving The Estes Valley
On Tuesday, April 15, 2025, Estes Park Health, the community hospital for Estes Valley, will celebrate its golden anniversary.
These 50 years have marked a steady increase in services, staff, advanced medical equipment and expanded buildings.
It is this type of growth over the past five decades that allows an emergency department team to receive a patient
Ella Van Tilburg 12th Grade
Congratulations to Ella Van Tilburg, the Estes Park High School Student of the Week for April 18, 2025.
Ella is the daughter of Amanda and Kevin Van Tilburg.
At EPHS, Ella is a member of Youth and Action Club and she has earned some medals in art.
Outside of school, she loves to take her dog Lola on walks or runs. She has two sisters, Kalli and Lilly and she works at Safeway on weekends.
Places she would love to visit are Ireland or Hawaii because she has never been to either place and she would love to see what they are like.
Ella’s favorite quote is "If you're happy doing what you're doing, then nobody can tell you you're not successful" by Harry Styles.
transported by EPH paramedics, a caring nurse to administer chemotherapy drugs to help patients avoid a long drive to the valley, or a parent to have the convenience to bring their child to a local family doctor.
These types of scenarios – providing skilled healthcare from emergency situations to routine visits – at a local hospital makes living at an elevation of 7,522 feet possible for the nearly 6,000 residents of the small town of Estes
The best piece of advice she’s ever received is that even if you don’t like somebody, you still have to be respectful to them.
When asked her plans after high school, Ella said “I plan on doing FRCC for two years, then I may transfer to a university.”
Park. This type of care also efficiently and effectively serves the more than 4.1 million visitors exploring nearby Rocky Mountain National Park.
But that wasn’t the case prior to 1975, when the only medical services in town were provided by two doctor’s offices – Reid Hospital and Mall Hospital. Each described as modified clinics, with basic and rudimentary equipment for x-rays, surgery, overnight care and family healthcare. At the time, emergency care would require stabilization at one of these offices or a one-hour ride to the nearest hospital.
In 1975, the population of Colorado experienced some of its largest growth in history, expanding by more than 60% from the 1950 to the 1970 census.
Estes Park witnessed some of that growth as well, with new residents moving to the 7,522-foot valley and more than 2.8 million people entering Rocky Mountain National Park in 1975, a 75% increase from just ten years earlier.
Those two small doctor offices – a thriving but limited part of the Estes Park community – could no longer continue to handle the growing needs of the region’s residents and visitors.
In 1967, the idea for a larger and more advanced hospital was first publicly mentioned.
One year later, the Park Hospital District, a special tax district of Larimer County, was formed, but funds would have to be raised to make the dream of a community hospital a reality.
In 1969, that funding took a large leap when Roger Knutsson, a long-time summer resident of Estes Park, donated more than $100,000 in the form of Eastman Kodak common stock to the Park Hospital District as a memorial for his late wife, Elizabeth. That
donation amounted to about one-third of the total estimated cost to build the hospital.
To honor Knutsson’s generous gift, the hospital board named the hospital the Elizabeth Knutsson Memorial Hospital.
Donations continued to come in from many members of the community, including a $900 donation from Mrs. Claire T. Hertz in 1969, funds resulting from the establishment of the Elizabeth Guild Auxiliary in 1972, and a donation from Scott Thompson, a Longs Peak Boy Scout member, in 1974.
On Saturday, Nov. 24, 1973, supporters of the project moved the first shovel of dirt towards the construction of the new hospital.
After less than two years of construction, the Elizabeth Knutsson Memorial Hospital opened on April 15, 1975.
During the dedication ceremony, Knutsson said, “This hospital is your hospital. It is here to improve the health of you who live here and the many visitors who pass through during the summer. It is here to save lives, possibly of some of us.”
Since that day 50 years ago, the hospital has been renamed twice, to Estes Park Medical Center in 1986 and Estes Park Health in 2018. The hospital has also seen growth in high-quality care with the addition of 24-hour ambulance service, an emergency department, a helipad, the radiology department, expanded surgical services, an outpatient clinic, a digital imaging suite, an urgent care center, and much more.
The hospital has also increased from its original plans of about 15 beds into a 23-bed critical access acute care facility, serving more than 18,000 patients for outpatient and inpatient services.
The next 50 years of medical care in Estes Valley look promising, with advanced technology and healthcare services thanks to a forthcoming partnership with UCHealth.
The original hospital, named the Elizabeth Knutsson Memorial Hospital, started with an idea in 1967, followed by the establishment of the Park Hospital District one year later.
In 2020, Estes Park Health continued their growth by opening the new Urgent Care Clinic, which includes rehabilitation services in addition to the hospital’s first dedicated urgent care center.
Fine Arts Guild Presents “Waiting For Godot”
Join us as the Fine Arts Guild presents Samuel Beckett’s existential masterpiece “Waiting for Godot” under the direction of Lars Sage. Performances run May 9, 10, 11 at the Stanley Pavilion at 250 Steamer Parkway in Estes Park. Shows are 7 p.m. May 9 and 10, and 2 p.m. May 11.
Tickets are $20 Adults, $18 Seniors, $12 6-18 yrs, 5 and under free Purchase tickets at Macdonald Book Shop, online at www.fineartsguild.org, or at the door.
Macdonald Book Shop Celebrates Independent Bookstore Day
Join Macdonald Book Shop on Independent Bookstore Day, April 26, to celebrate 97 years of providing the community with access to books of all genres. This year marks the 12th annual celebration, in which 1,200 bookstores in the US participate. Macdonald Book Shop has 75 prizes to win, exclusive IBD swag, and more. The Grey House has donated their Plinko Game to add to the festivities.
The shop is also lucky to be a part of the Libro.fm “golden ticket” contest. One lucky winner will receive 12 audiobook credits. The ticket will be hidden somewhere in the store on Independent Bookstore Day.
Libro.fm is an affiliate to many indie bookstores ensuring places like Macdonald Book Shop can offer audiobooks to their customers. Each time a customer supports their local indie bookstore affiliated with Libro.fm, the store receives a percentage of the sales.
One Day. Fifty States. 1400+ Bookstores.
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 series and his life as a writer of suspenseful storytelling. Presented with the Library Speakers Consortium. How to Use Anxiety to Thrive: Author Talk with Dr. David Rosmarin
Wednesday, May 7, 12 - 1 p.m., online
What if, instead of fighting our anxiety, we could turn it into a strength? In this enlightening webinar with the au-
What’s Happening At The Estes Valley Library
thor of Thriving with Anxiety, learn how to become more self-accepting, connected to others, and resilient. Presented with the Library Speakers Consortium.
Discuss end-of-life issues and our shared mortality. May’s featured title, Natural Causes, topples the shibboleths that guide our attempts to live a long, healthy life and tackles the seemingly unsolvable problem of how we might better prepare ourselves for the end.
ALL AGES
Paint a Spring Sign
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.
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, in honor of 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.
Be Mindful: Touch Grass & Other Nature Crafts
Saturday, May 3, 2:30 - 3:30 p.m., Hondius Room
Enjoy a mindful moment with us while you get your hands dirty! Creators of all ages are invited to this nature-based crafting event.
Mindful Mandalas
Friday, May 9, 10 a.m. - 12 p.m., Makerspace
Explore the process of drawing
intricate patterns and shapes to create your own mandala, a symbol of unity, balance, and harmony. 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.
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.
Monthly Writing Group
Monday, May 5, 5:30 - 7 p.m., Wasson Room
Calling all writers, aspiring writers, and anyone interested in writing! Join us on the first Monday evening of every month to share your writing, enjoy others’ work, and receive and provide feedback. All genres and forms are welcome.
TEENS & KIDS
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.
Lego Club: Bugs, Bugs, Bugs
Sunday, April 20, 1:30 - 2:30 p.m., Hondius Room
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!
Dungeons & Dragons: Spring Into Action!
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! 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.
May the 4th Be With You Sunday, May 4, 1 - 2:30 p.m., Hondius Room
Celebrate Star Wars Day with crafts (including making your own lightsaber!), robots, free comic books, a photobooth, and more. Wear your Star Wars themed clothing or costumes! Paint & Sip
Thursday, May 8, 3 - 4 p.m., Makerspace
Learn to paint watercolor flowers while sipping on apple cider. All art skill levels welcome.
KIDS & FAMILIES
Library Storytimes
Baby Storytime: Thurs., Fri., & Sat. at 10 a.m.
Preschool Storytime: Thurs., Fri., & Sat. at 10:30 a.m.
Read to Therapy Dog Annie: Thurs., April 24 at 11 a.m. & Sat., May 3 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 Embroidery Machine
Thursday, May 8, 10 - 11:30 a.m. repeated Thursday, May 8, 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. Study Session
Thursday, May 8, 6:30 - 8 p.m., Wasson Room
Learn more about the Board of Trustees and meeting topics 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.
End The School Year Strong With These Library Resources
Summer is approaching but school is still in session! Students are preparing for finals and end-of-year projects, ramping up grades and completing homework assignments. The public library’s free academic resources are here to make life a little easier.
Students who need a boost in their classes can check out Brainfuse, a unique digital center for child and adult learners, and features live online tutoring, writing assistance, and test preparation. Free tutoring appointments are available every day from 2 - 11 p.m. MDT. Learners can also send in their questions at any time, and receive an expert reply within 24 hours.
bleGo Next is a natural progression for 3rd-5th grade students. Articles and other tools are all aligned to state and national standards with age-appropriate support.
High schoolers can feel empowered in their learning by using Gale: In Context. From social studies to English language arts and beyond, each subject-spe-
cific resource offers rich multimedia in diverse formats, including articles, videos, charts, images, and infographics. Gale operates like a student’s own personal research library – perfect for preparing for final projects.
Estee Rivera Murdock Gives Rocky Mountain Conservancy Update To League Of Women Voters
On Wednesday, March 26, League of Women Voters Estes Park (LWVEP) members received an update from Rocky Mountain Conservancy on how donors and members are making a difference in Rocky Mountain National Park (RMNP).
Estee Rivera Murdock, executive director, noted that the Conservancy has committed over $6 million in support to RMNP this year across 80 projects.
During her talk, Murdock described initiatives the Conservancy supports for Rocky including trail maintenance and restoration, forest fire recovery,
“When the park’s needs change, the Conservancy is there to adapt or respond to new requests,” said Murdock. “I’ve spoken to this group many times over the eight years I have been executive director. Whether it is during the longest government shutdown in the nation’s history, the aftermath of the COVID-19 pandemic, the largest wildfires in the state’s history, or today, it seems we are continually facing unprecedented times. One simple way we are responding to today’s challenges is by connecting park staff and visitors through our Write a Ranger campaign.
Estes Park District R3 students should look for the Brainfuse app on the schoolissued iPads. Other users can access Brainfuse services remotely using the link on estesvalleylibrary.org/databases.
Support for little learners is available via PebbleGo, a curricular content hub specifically designed for K-2 students. Packed with ready-made activities and literacy support for students of all abilities, PebbleGo boosts engagement and fosters independent learning in core subject areas.
For older elementary school kids, Peb-
Graduated from school but still a lifelong learner? Universal Class offers over 500 self-paced online courses for all ages. Take a just-for-fun course, like “UFO Studies,” or focus on the more practical curriculums, like “Restaurant Management Mastery” or “Basic Research Skills.” Keep your brain active and achieve your personal goals!
Access to all of these subscription services (and others) is free with an Estes Valley Library card. Visit estesvalleylibrary.org/databases to get started.
Food, Fiesta, And Friendship: Celebrate Cinco de Mayo In Estes Park
Save the date for the Cinco de Mayo 2025 fiesta in Estes Park on Sunday, May 4 from 6 to 10 p.m. This free annual event is an opportunity for all our community and all ages to join together. This year’s celebration takes place once again at the Estes Park Event Center at Stanley Fairgrounds. Savor an authentic and complimentary Mexican dinner served from 6 to 7:30 p.m. Then enjoy the sights and sounds of live dance, with performers of all ages in traditional costume. Afterward, relax and tap your feet or step onto the dance floor for live music with DJ Joshi, and a performance by Cowboy Brad Fitch.
Ballet Renaissance of Estes Park will offer a special performance, in coordination with Bobcat Beats and the Mountain Echo Choir. Door prizes and kids’ activities will be part of the family-friendly festivities.
Cinco de Mayo is made possible through the dedication of Mountain Home Cafe Restaurant, whose staff will again be serv-
ing this year’s food. The event is supported by several major partners, including the Village Thrift Shop and Estes Park Salud Foundation. Additional partners include the Town of Estes Park and Crossroads Ministry.
Enrique and Olga, owners of Mountain Home Cafe Restaurant, wish to express their gratitude to all these partners: “As we have often said over many years, if it wasn’t for everyone’s unconditional support, multicultural events like this would not exist in Estes Park. The Salud Foundation is once again offering guidance for healthy choices in meal planning.
Locally, the fiesta is an opportunity to come together in kindness and enjoy an evening of new and renewed friendships, conversations, activities, and civic pride. Cash donations are welcomed, but not required.
Everyone is encouraged to save the date of May 4 and join in the spirit of community for Cinco de Mayo.
cultural and natural resource protection, facilities improvements, investment of time and funds in the Kawuneeche Valley Restoration Collaborative, visitor education, stewardship, research, and Rocky’s recently relaunched Artist-in-Residence program. In addition, she discussed Conservancy initiatives such as the High School Leadership Corps, Conservation Corps, fellowship programs, workforce housing development, and land acquisition efforts. Murdock left ample time to field questions from members and guests surrounding everything from how the Conservancy supports staffing at Rocky to advocacy.
“As a 501(c)3 nonprofit organization, Rocky Mountain Conservancy can advocate across party lines but cannot make lobbying a primary focus or endorse candidates,” said Murdock. “We advocate for public lands by attending National Park Foundation’s Hill Day year-over-year, sitting on the board and committees of National Park Friends Alliance, and by being members of Public Lands Alliance. We are stakeholders of Rocky Mountain National Park in the same way you sitting here today are--we do not direct park management decisions but are here to respond to the park’s critical needs to protect and preserve the landscape and visitor experience.”
Now, perhaps, more than ever, sharing your valuable stories of how the work of Rocky’s dedicated staff create an exceptional park experience makes a difference.”
Murdock left postcards for members and guests to share their stories with rangers. You can participate too by picking up a postcard at one of the Conservancy’s Nature Stores or visiting www.RMConservancy.org/ranger to share your story digitally.
Mark your calendars for the next Learn with the League on Wednesday, April 30, at 10 a.m. where RMNP Superintendent Gary Ingram and Public Affairs Officer Kyle Patterson will give an update on Rocky Mountain National Park. Learn with the League is located at the American Legion Hall at 850 S. Vrain St. This event is free and registration is not required.
Membership in the nonpartisan League of Women Voters is open to men and women who share the vision of democracy where every person has the desire, right, knowledge and confidence to participate. Information on LWVEP programs and how to become involved is at www.lwv-estespark.org. Information on joining or supporting the Rocky Mountain Conservancy can be found at www.RMConservancy.org.
The Bible speaks of a number of ‘resurrections’. Most of the people that were raised we hear little about again. I think of the widow of Nain’s son, the daughter of Jairus, Jesus’s friend Lazarus, and a few others, but little is said about them later, perhaps, because each of them would, sometime later, return to the grave. But ‘His’ was different. His is often described as a ‘resurrection of power’. And it is different, in that we can experience a ‘resurrection like His’ according to God’s Word. This ‘power’ is reflected in Robert Lowry’s hymn that we sing quite often. You remember it: “Low in the grave He lay, Jesus my Savior! Waiting the coming day, Jesus my Lord!” “Vainly they watch His bed, Jesus, my Savior! Vainly they seal the dead, Jesus, my Lord!” “Death cannot keep his prey, Jesus, my Savior! He tore the bars away, Jesus, my Lord!” Then comes the triumphant announcement, “Up from the grave He arose with a mighty triumph o’er His foes. He arose a Victor from the dark domain, and He lives forever, with His saints to reign. He arose! He arose! Hallelujah! Christ arose!” His powerful resurrection.
His powerful resurrection was evident at the moment it occurred. Jesus made His presence known to individuals and crowds of people. To them there was no doubt: this was the risen Lord! And, following His departure into Heaven, they began to live ‘in the power of the resurrection’…preaching boldly about the ‘now risen’ Lord. They experienced continual opposition, even persecution, but little did it matter. They were followers of the ‘risen’ Lord and they knew that they, too, would be ‘raised’ like He was. They baptized people…‘buried with Christ’… who then were ‘raised with Christ, to walk in newness of life.’ (Romans 6:3, 4) And their lives were driven by the ‘power of his resurrection’, knowing that “just as Christ was raised from the dead, they were going to share in that resurrection”, and they tried to live accordingly.
One good example is found in the life of Paul, who was converted to Christ and ‘wanted to know Christ and His resurrection, even the fellowship of His sufferings’, as needed, to serve Christ. This was displayed when he and Silas were preaching, but being hindered in their work by a demon-possessed girl. After healing her and incurring the wrath of her masters, they were ‘severely flogged’ and put in stocks in the local jail. Despite their misery, they prayed and sang praises to God joyously. All the prisoners heard. God’s resurrection-power resulted in an earthquake that freed all…but no one left. Paul saved the jailer’s life…and then he saved his soul, and those of his family, through his message about Jesus and their response to it. As always, Paul credited the ‘power of Jesus’ resurrection’ and the assurance that he, too, would share in a ‘resurrection like His’. We don’t know exactly what it will be like, when ‘all that hear His voice will come forth from the graves’, but we know that it will be powerful, like His was. But this confidence will have an impact on us long before that great ‘resurrection morning’ occurs. It will be seen in the way that we live: our joy, even in the midst of hard or uncertain times; our sharing of that great hope…a hope both sure and steadfast’, with others as they deal with the struggles of life. One of my favorite songs by William and Gloria Gaither, shares that message.
(Verse 1) “God sent His Son. They called Him Jesus. He came to love, heal, and forgive. He lived and died to buy my pardon. An empty grave is there to prove my Savior lives. Because He lives, I can face tomorrow. Because he lives, all fear is gone. Because I know He holds the future, and life is worth the living just because He lives.” (Verse 2) “How sweet to hold a newborn baby, and feel the pride and joy he gives; but greater still, the calm assurance, this child can face uncertain days, because He lives” (Verse 3) “And then, one day, I’ll cross that river, I’ll fight life’s final war with pain; and then, as death gives way to victory, I’ll see the lights of glory, and I’ll know He reigns. Because He lives I can face tomorrow. Because He lives all fear is gone. Because I know He holds the future, and life is worth the living, just because He lives.” Let’s rejoice in and share with others, the awesome ‘power of His resurrection’. Bob
Estes Park Senior Citizens Center Grateful For Community Initiative Funding
The Estes Park Senior Citizens Center had another successful year of service to the Estes Valley. Located at 1760 Olympian Lane, we offer a variety of services. Popular exercise activities include TriFit, Circuit Balance, Yoga, Tai Ji, Self-Care Massage, etc. and games that include bridge, mahjong, canasta, euchre and pinochle. Most Tuesdays at noon we have a presentation or musical event. Aspen Club also sponsors monthly presentations and blood pressure checks. Disabled Resource Services also does monthly visits.
We have the comfort food you crave! Subsidized meals for members are sponsored by Village Thrift Shop and are prepared by Big Horn Restaurant. Our menus, activities and events are published each Friday in the Estes Park News. We truly appreciate our community support!
Estes Park Senior Citizens Center, Inc. was founded in April 1975 and remains strong with over 300 members. Check out our website for the latest information: estesparkseniors.org
Coming Soon: Denver's Favorite A Cappella Group At American Legion Post 119
5280 A Cappella is a multi-awardwinning a cappella group that performs all over Colorado and neighboring states. This group performs just about every genre of music with their very own unique and harmonious arrangements. Come join them as they celebrate their 20-Year Anniversary. Because 5280 A Cappella is a very patriotic group, don’t be surprised when
they start out the evening singing their great version of our National Anthem. The concert will take place on April 26 at 6:30 p.m. This event is part of "Listening at the Legion," a budget minded concert series that brings nationally acclaimed music creators and performers to our little town. Please visit legionlisten.org for more info and to purchase advance tickets.
Peak To Peak Concert Series Presents Local Vocals
On May 3rd, the Peak to Peak Concert Series presents the popular “Local Vocals” concert, featuring per formers living in the Estes Valley. The concert will be held at 2:00 p.m. at the Shepherd of the Mountains Lutheran Church, 2000 Ptarmigan Trail, Estes Park. There will be a reception to meet and greet the musicians following the concert. The concert is free but donations are gratefully accepted and benefit the Oratorio Society of Estes Park.
The concert will have solo performances by Patricia Arias, Nancy Bell, Nelson Burke, Valerie Dascoli, Miranda Dillard, Bob Gunn, Denise Stookesberry and others. Nelson Burke and Miranda Dillard with perform a duet, Michelle Gergen Wisner and Cynthia Hunt will be accompanying the performers on piano. All performers choose their own music, so it will be an eclectic mix of opera, jazz, sacred music, art songs and musical theater classics. There is something for everyone at this concert!
Concert With The Moraine Belles Woodwind Quintet On April 22
Come enjoy a free live performance by the Moraine Belles at the Estes Park Senior Citizens Center (EPSCC) on Tuesday, April 22, from 12:00 p.m. to 1:30 p.m. The event will be held at 1760 Olympian Lane and is open to both residents and visitors. It’s a wonderful way to spend your afternoon with good music and light refreshments.
The Moraine Belles have been delighting Estes Park audiences for the past eleven years. They are a woodwind group comprised of five local women, and you may recognize them as members of the Estes Park Village Band and the Orchestra of the Oratorio Society of Estes Park. Three are currently performing in the Foothills Symphonic Band as well. The group is comprised of Susan McNeil (flute), Joan Hansen (clarinet), Susan Novy (bassoon), Karen Crislip (oboe), and
Bobbie Chambers (French horn).
The Moraine Belles will be performing Quintet Op. 71 by Ludwig van Beethoven, Carmen Suite by Georges Bizet, In the Hall of the Mountain King by Edvard Grieg, and several familiar, shorter pieces.
For the performance, you are welcome to bring your own lunch or prepurchase a hot meal. Place your order before 1:00 p.m. on Monday, April 21. For this event, the Senior Center will be serving a Variety Mexican Platter (taco, burrito, quesadilla) with refried beans. The cost is $7 for EPSCC members and $12 for non-members. If you become an EPSCC member for just $35 per year, you will not only enjoy meal discounts but also gain access to all the amazing activities. For more information about the EPSCC or to order a meal for the presentation, please call the Senior Center at (970) 581-2195.
Merry Marthas Meeting On April 25
Do you sew, knit, weave, or crochet and enjoy visiting with other ladies with similar interests? You’re invited to attend the next meeting of the Merry Marthas on Friday, April 25 at 9:30 a.m. at the Presbyterian Community Church of the Rockies at 1700 Brodie Avenue. This group meets monthly to share what we have made, and then we donate our finished projects to local charities. New members are always welcome whether you’re a beginner or an expert.
For more information, please call the church office at 970-586-4404.
Estes Park Senior Citizens Center Menu
Apr 21 – 25
Monday, Apr 21 Country Fried Chicken w/ sausage gravy on the side, Scrambled Eggs, Hashbrowns & Biscuit
Tuesday, Apr 22 Mexican Platter (beef taco in corn shell, bean burrito topped w/ pork green chili & cheesy quesadilla) w/ Refried Beans
Wednesday, Apr 23 Philly Chicken Sandwich (topped w/ mozzarella cheese, green peppers & onions) w/ Pasta Salad
Thursday, May 1 Chicken Alfredo w/ Pasta, garlic bread & side salad
Friday, May 2 Fish & Homemade Chips w/ soup of the day
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 21st, you need to call before 1:00 PM on Friday, Apr 18th. For reservations call 970-581-2195 and leave a detailed message. Pre-paid meal tickets and membership forms are available at the Estes Park Senior Citizens Center located at 1760 Olympian Lane.
The Center is OPEN Monday thru Friday 10 – 1 TriFit M-W-F 10:30-11:15 AM Circuit Balance Monday 1-1:45 PM Mahjong Tuesday 10 – 2 Tai Ji Class Tuesday 10:15 – 11:15 AM Yoga 1st & 3rd Thursday 10:15-11:15 AM Self-care Massage 2nd & 4th Thursday 10:15 – 11:15 AM Live Music & Presentations Tuesday @ 12:00 – 1:30 (TBA) Aspen Club Blood Pressure Check 4th Wednesday 10:00 – 1:00 Aspen Club Presentations 2nd Wednesday 12:00 – 1:30 Bridge Group Every Thursday 12:30 – 4:30 PM with lessons in the morning Canasta, Euchre & Pinochle 1st & 3rd Wednesday 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
GOMEZ TEAM
Dunkraiser Progress
Local business leaders are taking the Dunk-Raiser plunge Friday night at the CIRCUS—unless someone buys a bucket of “Save” votes. Certainly, Zach Zehn of the Estes Park Mountain Shop seems to relish the idea of a chilly dip in the tank and is taunting his peer dunkers on what they’ll wear wet, while others, like Cindy Mackin of Visit Estes Park, would be perfectly pleased to be saved. This is your downto-the-wire call to vote with your wal-
let. All votes benefit the Estes Nonprofit Network’s support of our local nonprofit industry. As of press, there is a neck-and-neck feeling about some of our Town of Estes Park leaders: Travis Machalek and Town Mayor Gary Hall. Don’t you have strong feelings!? Other participants include Christina Kraft, Market President of Bank of Colorado, Dustin Deyer, Owner of KMAC Guides, and Carissa Streib, Owner of Simply Christmas.
International Travel Trips Now Online For CIRCUS Silent Auction
All Trips Support Year-round Programs for Local Nonprofits
By: Karen McPherson, Estes Nonprofit Network
Silent auction trips include Portugal, France (Paris and Versaille), a South
and Boston.
CIRCUS: The Fundraising Extravaganza is the Estes Nonprofit Network’s annual fundraiser and gala. The American Fundraising Foundation (AmFund) again supports the Estes Valley’s nonprofit industry by offering nine oncein-a-lifetime trips at the CIRCUS. Trips are available online on Wednesday, April 16th at noon and close at 9 p.m. on Friday, April 18th.
We recommend that you go online now and review the trips. One, if they tickle your fancy at all, register. Then, you will be reminded when it’s time to bid and see the action on your dreamcation. Someone has to win and it might as well just be YOU. AmFund recognizes that our community relies on the services of nonprofits that are, in other communities, often provided by government agencies. Join AmFund in supporting the Network’s year-round educational programs, resources, and collaboration opportunities for local nonprofits. Auction items are your way of saying, “YES, I stand by the strength of our nonprofit industry.”
If you are curious about the Network’s experience working with AmFund, the
Silent auction trips include Portugal, France (Paris and Versaille), a South African Safari, Florence, Scottland, Sedona, Greece, Zurich, and Boston. All trips have a three-year travel window, no blackout dates, support from an Amfund Travel Specialist, and tours and excursions are included. AmFund makes the reservations and organizes the details for you. Bam. Done. Local nonprofit enthusiasts who have purchased AmFund’s trips are thrilled with their accommodations, travel guides, and tours. All trips except the South African Safari include airfare. You don’t have to plan, just enjoy!
All trips benefit the Estes Nonprofit Network’s year-round support of the Estes Valley’s nonprofit industry. It’s not IF you will travel, it’s “Where to?”.
tax benefits for your donation, or just need to be convinced this is a great idea, email us at cato@epnonprofit.org or call (970) 480-7805. Former trip winners are happy to talk about their experiences. We’re here for ya! Bid to win.
Seven international travel trips (plus two in the USA) are now online. It’s a quick-bid turnaround! The auction closes on Saturday, April 18, at 9 p.m.
Estes Park Youth Hit The Turf As EVRPD Flag Football Kicks Off
The Estes Valley Recreation and Parks Department’s youth flag football teams had their first games on April 7th, as part of the Noco Elite Youth Sports Flag Football League. Despite the cold and snowy weather, the three teams played well and picked up a few wins.
The Noco Flag Football league has several age divisions and EVRPD has teams in the 3rd/4th grade and 5th/6th grade divisions. Teams play a 7-game season followed by playoffs and games are played in Loveland with a home game planned in Estes Park. Teams that make the finals are rewarded with an opportunity to play at CSU’s Canvas Stadium.
A majority of EVRPD’s youth sports programs, including Flag Football, rely on parent volunteers as coaches. Gib Dolezal has been a long-time fixture in Estes Park’s football community and is currently a coach for one of the 5th/6th grade teams. “I enjoy coaching the athletes on the flag football team because of their enthusiasm for the game. They
learn valuable lessons of teamwork and sportsmanship,” says Dolezal. Volunteer Coach Zac Youtz, when asked about the league, had high praise. "It's fantastic to see 29 amazing youngsters forming three local flag football teams in the Noco 5v5 league!” Youtz said. “Huge thanks to Estes Rec and our incredible volunteer coaches, Gib Dolezal and Jake Virant, for making this happen. Their significant time commitment is truly what allows us to field three teams this year.” EVRPD’s 3rd/4th grade volunteer coach Jake Virant said “It’s been an exciting first two weeks to the season and I couldn’t be happier with the group of boys and girls that we’ve got this year.” In total, there are seven parent volunteers helping make this year’s flag football program a success. We would also like to thank the Bank of Colorado for jersey sponsorship.
For more information about EVRPD’s upcoming youth sports programs, visit evrpd.com/youth-sports-and-activities.
the INSPIREDLIVING group
Serving All Families, Supporting Every Story
One afternoon, a young father stepped through the doors of EVICS Family Resource Center. He was a firsttime dad, and his baby had been born prematurely. Far from extended family and navigating the challenges of new parenthood with his wife—originally from Vietnam—he came to EVICS hoping to find support.
A friend had recommended our center. He didn’t know exactly what we offered, but he knew he needed a place to start.
That day he left with preemie diapers, wipes, and guidance on available resources. More importantly, he left with something deeper: a sense of relief, connection, and hope that he wasn’t alone in this journey.
Whether you're raising a child, expecting your first, navigating life as a young adult, or simply seeking connec-
tion and resources—EVICS is your place.
A few weeks later, he returned—with his wife and baby. We had the joy of meeting the full family, and from that moment on, EVICS became part of
their village—walking alongside them through parenting, child development, and community connection. This is what EVICS is all about.
We are a trusted starting point for families. A place to ask questions, get support, and find encouragement. Whether it’s parenting classes, car seat safety checks, developmental screenings, support groups, or tuition assistance—our goal is to strengthen families in every season of life. Every day, our team welcomes people from all walks of life with respect and compassion—because we believe that every family deserves to feel seen, supported, and valued.
EVICS is here for all families, regardless of background, language, nationality, or income.
To illustrate this, we turn to the timeless message found in the parable of the Good Samaritan: compassion doesn’t depend on where someone comes from, but on how we choose to respond when someone needs help. That’s what we believe at EVICS. We’re here to respond— with care, dignity, and practical support.
EVICS is more than a resource center— it’s a hub for community connection. A first-stop shop for families. A welcoming space for everyone.
So if you’ve ever wondered if EVICS is “for people like you,” the answer is simple: Yes. It is. You are welcome here. You belong here.
“EVICS exists to serve the Estes Valley. Every family matters. Every child deserves support. No one is turned away, and no one should ever feel like they don’t belong here. We are here for all.”
— Rut Miller, Executive Director, EVICS Family Resource Center
Come visit us. Ask a question. Take a class. Join a support group. Get the help you need.
We’re here to walk alongside you— because every family deserves to thrive.
1182 Graves Ave. Unit A, Estes Park. CO. 80517 – (970) 586-3055 – Monday–Friday | 9:00 a.m. – 4:00 p.m.
To learn more about all the programs and services we offer, visit us or explore our website.
The Great Estes Park Duck Race Recognizes Our New Merchant Partners
The Merchant Partner Program is new for The Great Estes Park Duck Race of 2025.
Based on a survey that was taken after last year’s duck race, the Rotary Club of Estes Park decided to offer something new to our merchant prize donors, to be more of a two-way street. We wanted to promote their offering (food, drink, shopping, etc) while giving our attendees additional options to enjoy their visit while they are waiting between races or other activities. The Merchant Partner Program is intended to build a good experience for attendees while driving traffic to local businesses.
To be eligible for the Merchant Partner Program, applicants must donate at least two prizes to the duck race, and operate a qualified business in one of the following business categories: Food, Beverage or Treats
Shopping Attraction
Lodging
Merchant Partners benefit from being prominently displayed on promotional signage, event brochures, and venue maps on race day as well as pre-event promotions to attendees.
The area merchants who have agreed to participate in the program include:
A la Carte Kitchen Store
Alpenglow Images & Accents
Backbone Adventures
The Barrel
Blake Trading Company
CABINtique
Cliffhanger Used Bookstore
Colorado Homestead
Estes Park Knife Company
Estes Park Mountain Shop
Estes Park Museum
Favorite Things
Himalayan Curry and Kebob
Inkwell and Brew
Kind Coffee
Lonigan's Saloon, Nightclub & Grill
Macdonald Book Shop
Mary Jane's
Mountain Berry Bakery & Kissing
Moose Cafe
The Munchin’ House
Outdoor World
Raven's Roast
Rocky Mountain Connection
Rocky Mountain Deli
The Rocky Mountain Crepe
Company
Stanley Home Museum
Wild Side 4X4 Tours
Wynbrier Home & Wildlife Gallery
The Great Estes Park Duck Race is grateful to these local merchants who
have agreed to open their doors to welcome attendees at this year’s race. The majority of these businesses are offering special discounts for Duck Race adopters that visit their place of business on race day, which amplifies the promotional impact of the partnership. For more details on this program, review www.EPDuckRace.org/MerchantPartner.
To follow developments with the 2025 race, visit the event website (www.EPDuckRace.org) and the Club website (portal.clubrunner.ca/5241).
The Great Estes Park Duck Race, presented by the Rotary Club of Estes Park, is held annually on the first Saturday of May each year. This annual tradition started in 1989, making 2025 the 37th annual duck race. Over the years, it has earned more than $3 million for local Estes Park charities and civic groups.
Elsa, Brandi And Max Need New, Loving, Forever Families
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.
Brandi is a two year old healer mix. She is fun and high energy. She loves everyone and is crate trained.
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.
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.
Lockdown!
By: Larry Strong
Sirens are blowing, officers running, a voice of urgency is on the PA system informing us that nobody is allowed to move. The inmates have an excited look on their faces because they have a change in their routine. This is what lockdown looks and sounds like inside a correctional facility. What it feels like is uncertainty, fear, an el evated heart rate and hoping whoever or whatever the prison is looking for isn’t in the chapel where you’re conducting a worship service. One also feels stuck, trapped, paralyzed and to tally out of con trol. You feel “in carcerated” for something you didn’t do.
A couple thousand years ago, and for a different reason, this is how the Disciples of Jesus must have felt. Their world had been turned upside down with the arrest, mock trial, brutal beating, crucifixion and ultimate death of their teacher, friend and Rabbi. They were in self-imposed “lockdown” with John 20 reporting that the disciples were together with the “door locked out of fear.”
we may to make the bad stuff just go away, we find ourselves left with the proposition of how to find peace and serenity in the midst of the storm. Living inside a locked room is no life is it?
What “His story” has shown us is that the grave couldn’t keep Jesus in lockdown. The resurrection of Jesus changed everything. This included everybody hunkered down in fear and despair in that “locked down” room. To a man, the disciples spent the rest of their lives as living testimonials to the life of Jesus. And to a man, they became willing to be dying witnesses of His life giving and life changing teachings. None were willing to deny their faith unto death. Faith worth dying for is most certainly a faith worth living for.
Still Time To Double Your Dollars With Neighbors In Need Challenge
By: Brian Schaffer
Last week we were given the privilege of distributing food boxes to our neighbors as a way to help them pull
If you find yourself in “lockdown” mode you’ve got company. There’s enough stuff pressing in against us these days to make our knees a tad wobbly. We seek antidotes including anything and everything that might help take the edge off this uncertain world we’re living in don’t we? Try as
This Easter weekend, Men on Fire meets Saturday, 8:00 a.m. at the American Legion for “Breakfast with a Purpose!” Men, no matter where you find yourself on your faith journey you’ll be welcome. Jesus said, “Ask, and it will be given to you; seek and you’ll find; knock and the door will be opened to you. Ask yourself, “Does MOF sound intriguing?” Seek us out at 850 N. St. Vrain, Saturday, 8:00 a.m. No need to knock—just come on in. We won’t be under lockdown!
Crossroads Provides An EggCeptional Easter For Families In Need
On Thursday, April 10th, staff and volunteers with Crossroads Ministry of Estes Park handed out boxes containing Easter meals for dozens of families in need of a little help. Each family received a ham or a turkey and a box full of food including stuffing, vegetables, rolls, a pie, and Easter candy for the children. In all, Crossroads gave away more than a hundred meals. To learn more about this local nonprofit Christian service organization or to get involved by providing financial support or volunteering, go to crossroadsep.org.
and enjoy the sights, sounds, and yumminess that it has to offer. What I’ve discovered is that there is no shortage of taffy, carmel corn, candy, and/or ice
off an Eggstraordinary Easter dinner to share with their friends and family. I’d like to express our gratitude to every single person that was involved in making this happen. From our donors to our volunteers that offered the human touch as they greeted and loaded the food into the cars. It really does take a village to make a meaningful impact in our community. You might not know this, but we have a fantastic group of volunteers that as-
sist us in a variety of areas. This helps us maximize our efforts as well as resources in meeting the needs of our neighbors. In 2024, our volunteers served 7,960 hours. That’s a lot of hours! We are blessed to have each of them working hand-in-hand with our staff and clients. We could never afford to pay them what they’re worth, but we do try to express our appreciation throughout the year for their generous investment of time. On Thursday, May 8th, we will be gathering at the Walnut room on the campus of the YMCA of the Rockies for our annual appreciation breakfast. We are hoping everyone who has helped us in the past 12 months would join us for this special event. You and a plus one are invited to enjoy the food, fun and fellowship! We will start serving breakfast at 8:00am, and plan to be finished around 9:00 a.m. If you’re thinking about being a part of this, please send Aaron Bojan an email at aaron.crossroadsep@gmail.com Whenever we have friends and family members in town, we will stroll through the streets of downtown Estes
cream. It’s hard to resist the sweet tooth cravings, and eventually I find myself stopping to nibble on something. Of course, it’s mainly to give our grandkids a great sampling of what we have available, but I must admit I do like sweet things. I’ve not sampled any ice cream from the newest place in town that is called Pines & Cones, but this is on my bucket list. Not that I’m going to eat a bucket of ice cream, but I will get a scoop or two. It’s part of the experience to sample the various flavors and then make your selection. After that, you have to decide how many scoops, and once this decision is made, you get to watch the masters at working putting together your delightful treat. Scooping out ice cream all day is a wonderful way to put a smile on a person’s face when they receive their order. What’s even better is when the “Ice Creamista” puts an extra scoop on for you, and says “It’s on the house!” It’s free of charge—it’s a gift from me to you! It’s kinda like a matching program that contributes a free scoop to everyone that buys a scoop. Two scoops for the price of One. That’s a sweeeeet deal! Which reminds me that we have a sweet deal going on during April and May that doubles every dollar that is given. You donate a scoop of money, and another scoop of money is added to the cone. I’d like to encourage each of you to consider sending in a scoop of money this week, so we can keep adding to the total amount that is being matched up to $100,000. Our Neighbors in Need Challenge is only going on for a few more weeks, so decide what flavor of donation you’d like to share with us, and we’ll make sure it’s doubled! The way we treat our neighbors is important, and we want to make sure we’re taking good care of those who find themselves in a season of need. Thank you for partnering with us!
Photo by Wendy Rigby/Crossroads Ministry of Estes Park
Let Light Perpetual Shine
Conducted By Charles Howard
Please join us Friday, April 25 at 7:00 p.m. or Saturday, April 26 at 2:00 p.m. at The Presbyterian Community Church of the Rockies for a special concert by the Oratorio Society Chorus and the Estes Valley Chamber Orchestra, “Let Light Perpetual Shine.”
The first three works on these concerts all have rich stories to tell. Grofé’s Mis-
trayal of the Madonna and Child, which radiates in luminescent color. Pigovat’s orchestration skillfully reflects in vibrant sound what Botticelli so artfully created in color.
John Rutter honored his father’s memory by composing his stirring and touching Requiem in 1985. Although the 23rd Psalm is not a regular text found
sissippi Suite was composed in 1926 and each for the four movements depict the great river’s course from its Minnesota headwaters to its arrival at the Gulf of Mexico at New Orleans.
The musical language ranges from the majestic (Father of Waters), to the humorous (Huckleberry Finn), to the contemplative (Old Creole Days) and finally to the Festive (Mardi Gras). Grofé’s masterful orchestration deftly embraces the spirit of America’s signature river just as his Grand Canyon suite captured the nature of one of our greatest National Parks.
Alexander Borodin’s symphonic poem, In the Steppes of Central Asia was composed in 1880 and is dedicated to Franz Liszt. In it, a caravan of Central Asia is escorted across the desert under the protection of Russian troops. As listeners, we first hear the caravan approaching at a distance until it passes it up close and eventually fades away in the opposite direction.
Boris Pigovat’s Botticelli “Magnificat” is a musical representation of a painting by the renaissance artist Sandro Botticelli that the artist painted in 1483. Pigovat’s music response was first composed as the second movement of the composer’s viola sonata in 2012. He orchestrated it for his friend, Donald Maurice to whom it is dedicated in 2017.
Botticelli’s painting is a circular por-
in Requiem Masses, Rutter chose to include his wonderful setting of that text he had composed in 1978. The text to this Requiem moves imaginatively and comfortably between Latin and English The second movement, Out of the Deep is yet another Psalm setting not normally associated with the requiem liturgy. Rutter’s music is here permeated with blues harmonic and melodic gestures that are framed by an extensive cello solo.
Chase Jordan is a Colorado-based composer and violist whose music has been described as “an engaging musical narrative” (Arcadia Winds, 2018). In this way, he likens himself to a musical storyteller – using music to create emotional arcs which brings the audience with the musicians on the journey – whether the inspiration is literary or from the natural world. He is passionate about developing narrative arcs through collaborative works and frequently creates with choreographers, dancers, and writers. Chase holds a Bachelor’s of Music Degree in Viola Performance from the University of Wyoming and a Master’s of Music Degree in Viola Performance and Music Composition from the Hartt School.
The Presbyterian Community Church of the Rockies is located at 1700 Brodie Ave., Estes Park, Colorado. Our concert is free and open to the public. Donations are gratefully accepted. 501c-3 nonprofit.
Rev. Bertani Accepts Call To Serve Shepherd Of The Mountains Lutheran Church
Todd Bertani says he loves being a pastor. The Rev. Bertani accepted a call to serve Shepherd of the Mountains Lutheran Church in Estes Park on March 17.
“I’m excited to be here, “ he said. “Shepherd of the Mountains has such a heart for community ministry, building partnerships. I believe ministry is most effective when handled through community partnerships and religious partnerships.”
He was responsible for facility management, housing support and overall well being for program participants.
Pastor Bertani was the senior pastor and administrator at St. Mark’s Lutheran Church in Fairfield, California for 16 1/2 years from November 1999 to May 2016. He supervised a staff of seven, worked with primary responsibility for preaching , teaching, church functions and pastoral care. He also worked successfully with atrisk teens and their families, and coordinated an after-school program, a food pantry and a weekly program for seniors.
As his work with the homeless became more consuming (he said his dream had always been to help the homeless) he finally stepped down from St. Mark’s and joined B.O.S.S ( Building Opportunities for Self Sufficiency.) At B.O.S.S some of the many areas he worked in provided overall management and responsibility for county and city contracted shelter for homeless individuals , facilitated trauma care and crisis intervention techniques for clients.
In 2022 Pastor Bertani moved to Denver and worked for the Colorado Coalition for the Homeless for three years as a program manager for veterans’ affairs, another interest of his as he served in the Marines from 1984 to 1988.
He was instrumental in creating Legacy Lofts, a permanent supportive Housing Program of the Colorado Coalition. He worked to provide outreach support in locating and intaking individuals who had been living on the streets.
But in 2023 he realized he also missed being pastor to a congregation so he applied to return to the ordained ministry. He was approved for reinstatement as a Lutheran pastor in 2024.
Jeanette Bertani live in Longmont. Jeanette, who goes by Jet is a chiropractor with a practice in Denver. Their combined family (who he calls “the loves of my life” ) are Todd’s children, Dylan, 22, a teacher, and daughter, Tyler, 25, a professional musician and Jet’s son, Aidan, 28, in sales. All three live in California. Rounding out the household is Roxy, a boxer and two tuxedo kittens, Enzo and Luciano.
The Bertanis like to hike, Jet loves to paint and be creative and is a gardener. , Todd golfs and enjoys reading history (his undergraduate degree from UCLA is in history) and everyone walks Roxy who is just a little spoiled.
Support For Dr. Max Salfinger For The Park Hospital District Board
To The Editor:
Dear Fellow Estes Park Voters, Please vote for Dr. Max Salfinger for the Park Hospital District Board. He is an incredible person and will be a great asset for our Board. We have gotten to know Max over the past few years, and we are amazed at his knowledge and his commitment to our community. Professionally, his extensive background in public health, medical microbiology, and laboratory leadership, coupled with his long experience in healthcare systems management, gives him the exact skillset needed to protect our community healthcare. And, he has the chutzpah to help advocate for us and to navigate the transitions for
Estes Park Health as it moves forward with its affiliation with UCHealth. Max Salfinger will provide us with a financially stable, patient-centered healthcare system, with an emphasis on innovation and sustainable growth. This is critical for our small (but mighty) community and for all of our health needs. Max will be a dedicated and effective voice for the people of Estes Park, advocating for our healthcare needs while ensuring that Estes Park Health continues to provide highquality, accessible care for all. Please vote for Max!
John and Sally Gaddis Estes Park, CO
Lilian Belle Hoyle
Mom, Lilian Belle (Moul) Hoyle is now peacefully, happily, and safely at home for eternity with her sweet precious Savior, Jesus Christ. Mom was born October 20, 1922 in Carrollton, Missouri and passed away at the Brown County Hospital in Ainsworth, Nebraska on March 30, 2025 almost one month shy of 102 1/2 years young. It is very difficult to know where to begin in telling you about Mom as there is so much to say but so little space in this article in order to express it all. Mom was in every way the Proverbs 31 woman and wife. Like all of us, she was not perfect but you
would be hard-pressed to see or know her imperfections as she was very loving, humble, selfless, giving, kind, and precious to all who knew her whether for a long time or for just a few short minutes. She was also a very strong woman both in her resilience and especially in her faith in Jesus in how she handled difficulties, illnesses, and traumatic events throughout her life, to include the tragic deaths of her father and sister (Rev. John W. H. Moul and Bonnie Moul) when Mom was a young teenager; through her husband’s death thirty years ago; and with the passing of her mom Tina Moul, her four other sisters Callie Bartholomew, Bettie Siemer, and Lila Clock, and their husbands throughout the past years.
Mom and Winthrop E. Hoyle were married December 3, 1944 in Fort Collins, Colorado. I can easily describe both Mom and Daddy with the same descriptions as I mentioned above. Along with Daddy’s sense of humor, if you had the privilege of knowing either or both of them whether as family or friends, you were lovingly blessed with honest humility, love, and joy. Friends were friends for life; children of young couples they invited over were treated like grandchildren; and all of us as
Voting For Janet Zeschin For Park Hospital District Board
To The Editor:
We, as a group, want to express our support for Janet Zeschin as a candidate for the Park Hospital District Board. She has extensive healthcare experience and with her service orientation, she will make a great choice to advocate for the organization and the community. Janet is a dedicated Rotarian and she strives to embody our
motto of “Service above Self” as well as tenets of the Four Way Test: “Of the things we think, say and do - Is it the truth? Is it fair to all concerned? Will it build goodwill and better friendships? and Will it be beneficial to all concerned?”
Kendra Wallis
Stacy Cole-Winsor
Jean Rissmiller
their own children, grandchildren, nieces and nephews have so many special memories beyond count of both Mom and Dad!!
As a pastor’s daughter and as the wife of an EENT (Eye, Ear, Nose, Throat) Surgeon who was in the Army and then in the Public Health Service during his schooling, internship, and residencies, and on throughout the first several years of their marriage, Mom lived in multiple states across the US from West Coast to East Coast, South Coast to the Midwest, to multiple times in several cities in Colorado (including Estes Park), and finally to Nebraska.
Mom was a member of the Philanthropic Educational Organization (PEO) for 50 years and was a beloved friend of many she knew throughout her life including the women in her PEO groups like GJ in Estes; in her bridge groups; and in all the churches she and Daddy attended including the Rocky Mtn Evangelical Free Church in Estes Park. While she would never believe it, she was a great cook; her sewing talents were amazing; and she was extraordinary in the lost art of letter and card writing. Mom was also excellent in typing, bookkeeping, and accounting in the jobs she held during college and her first few years of marriage while Daddy was in college and Medical School. Her greatest gift from God, though, was her strong unwavering faith in Jesus and her prayers for everyone throughout her entire life even to the day of her passing from this Earth. She was a true prayer warrior. I don’t know how many people throughout Mom’s life ever really knew just how much they were covered in
prayer by Mom at all times whether they knew her or not. She was never pushy about her faith and belief in Jesus as her Lord and Savior but many of her prayers were for encouragement, healing, comfort, and protection for all. Also, her prayers were especially from her fervent desire for all her family members including all extended family members, all her friends, and many people she had never met to know His love and gift of grace for us and for us to believe in Him as she did. If you were privileged with the honor of her singing to you “Jesus Loves Me” and other hymns she remembered from the past in these past few years, she was singing those songs as her prayer gift of love and encouragement for you as well.
Mom is survived by her children: Larry Hoyle and wife, Jennifer of Lawrence, KS; Cheri Bowen and husband, Dan of Ainsworth, NE; Carol Foy and husband, Dennis of Centennial, CO; and Cindy Hoyle of Estes Park, CO; five grandchildren, five great grandchildren, and five great-great grandchildren; nieces and nephews and all their generations of children in several US States and Canada.
While a memorial service is not planned, a family gathering in some form in the future is being discussed. In lieu of flowers, memorials have been suggested to Cottonwood Villa in Ainsworth, NE in Lilian’s name for future designation. Since 2019, Mom was cared for with so much love by all the staff at Cottonwood. Please know she loved all of you, too. Thank you so very much for your love for Mom!!
Bret Lovenburg
Bret Charles Lovenburg died April 6, 2025, in his home in Estes Park CO with his sons by his side. Bret was born November 7, 1963, to Olive “Dink” and Galen Lovenburg in Estes Park. He and his two brothers and sister have great memories of being wild kids riding their bikes and exploring the Estes Valley growing up. He attended the Estes Park School district and made many lifelong friends and acquaintances during that time. Bret was a gifted automechanic and a hard-working landscaper and construction worker; he took pride in his work and did things the right way the first time. He was always available to teach folks how to fix their own issues with their cars and enjoyed sharing his knowledge.
with the grandkids. He was very honest and caring to his family and anyone that needed help at any time. Bret also had a deep love and connection to animals.
Bret loved building model cars, NASCAR and the Denver Broncos. He played guitar for many years and found something good in all the music he heard, he inspired the love of music in his sons and played guitar with them till the end.
Bret is preceded in death by his parents Olive “Dink” and Galen Lovenburg, brother Mark Lovenburg and. He is survived by his sister Heidi Lovenburg (Bill Harvey), brother Bruce Andrews, sons Ryan Tedder, Jim Connour (Kera Steele), Grandchildren Korrina and Jorin Connour. And many other extended family members.
Bret loved Estes Park and stayed here his whole life only leaving for short periods in between housing always with the goal of coming back. Bret was an easy-going father to his two sons Ryan Tedder and Jim Connour. He let his boys be kids encouraging them to play outside as he did when he was young. He and his sons became closer as adults, he was always there for advice and to help
Celebration of life will be private family services at a future date. In lieu of flowers the family would like you to consider a donation to Crossroads Ministry of Estes Park (www.crossroadsep.org/donate) to keep helping the community Bret loved so much. Please visit www.allnuttestespark.com to leave your favorite story or memory for the family to read.
Register Now For High Peak Camp
Start your summer off right by attending an exciting three-day youth conference at the beautiful High Peak Camp in the Tahosa Valley of Estes Park. Prepare to spend your time in amazing Christ-centered worship and teaching, plus enjoy great outdoor activities in the Rocky Mountains.
This is what some of the attendees from last year had to say about the event:
Gabriel–"I am a lot bolder in everything since the conference-like worship and going up front to share stuff. I have a nicer life! I am bolder in worship and the Lord made me feel like I was worth something. I am also hearing God's voice better."
Ronin–"I never grew up in church and didn't know about God. It was great to learn what God had said and what He has taught me and what He has to offer me. I enjoyed all the teachings. I decided that I wanted to give my life to the Lord. I got baptized at church the following Sunday."
Ellie–"When we got up to the conference, I was expecting our speaker to only tell stories from the Bible and that would be it. But I was SO wrong. The worship groups were absolutely amazing. I could feel the Holy Spirit moving through the room, and it was just amazing. But when the speakers started speaking, I cried every single service!"
Middle school to university age students are invited! (Please no students younger than 10, unless accompanied by their family)
Registration website: www.fire4jesus.org
Cost:
$285 All-inclusive (registration, food, and dorm-style lodging)
$100 Registration only
Visit our social media pages: Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php ?id=61569303898929
CDR Arthur Walter Blume III, USN, passed away in his sleep on Saturday, March 15, 2025, after an extended illness. He was born in Springfield, MO, to A.W. Blume, Jr. and Henrietta Porter Gillespie, on October 27, 1936. After graduating high school in Springfield, Art earned bachelor and master's degrees in psychology from Drury College in Springfield. While there he was an intercollegiate basketball player, golfer, and designed the first school mascot, the panther. He was a member of Lambda Chi Alpha fraternity. He succeeded in inviting Stan Kenton and his orchestra to the school.
After moving to Estes Park with wife Pat in 2006, he established and managed the Estes Park Repertoire Theater, beginning with "Murder in the Cathedral," performed at St. Bartholomew's Episcopal Church. Art was preceded in death by his wives Kathleen and Vikki, sister Barbara, daughter Julie, grandson Brandon, and stepdaughter Rachel Boe.
Art was a Naval Officer (22 years active and reserve), a businessman, city councilman, church elder, husband, father, grandfather and great grandfather.
He is survived by his wife Pat in Estes Park, and sons Arthur IV, (his wife Karen Schmaling) in Richfield, Washington, Steven Blume in Brooklyn, NY, stepdaughters DeDe Vest, Robyn and Rachel, nine grand and step grandchildren. A memorial service will be held at 11:00 a.m., Thursday May 1, 2025, at St. Bartholomew's Episcopal Church in Estes Park. Internment with full military honors will occur at Fort Logan, Denver, Friday, May, 2025, at 2:00 p.m.
Holy Week At PCCR
We invite everyone in the Estes Park area to come join us at Presbyterian Community Church of the Rockies. Through music and the spoken word, we once again relive Christ’s triumphal entering the city of Jerusalem. Palm Sunday’s recent excitement and celebration 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.
Estes valley residents and visitors. This service begins at 10:00 a.m. in our beautiful sanctuary at 1700 Brodie Ave in Estes Park.
He is Risen!
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
We invite everyone in the Estes Park area to come join us on Easter Sunday, April 20th at 10:00 a.m. for the Presbyterian Community Church of the Rockies for a wonderful service of music and the spoken word. Easter, the most important Sunday in the Christian church year, is a celebration of the resurrection of Jesus
Christ.
Known for its excellent music ministry, the entire musical forces of the church are joined this year by the Highland Brass Quintet for an exciting and uplifting worship experience. The twenty-voice Chancel Choir, hand bell choir and Larry Gillum at the organ along with the brass have been working hard to bring you this service. Pastor Rev. Dr. Christine Dempsey will give the Easter message. We look forward to sharing this service with the Estes valley residents and visitors. Again, this service begins at 10:00 a.m. in our beautiful sanctuary at 1700 Brodie Ave.
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
Remaining Holy Week schedule
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 EucharistApril 20 at 10:00 a.m. Visit www.stbartsepiscopalchurch.org/ for more information.
Located at 880 MacGregor Avenue, 970-586-4504.
Mount Calvary Lutheran Church950 N. St. Vrain Ave.Estes Park, Colorado.
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
Easter Breakfast – 10:45
1 Corinthians 15:19-26
“The Gift Of Eternal Life”
We are now livestreaming and recording our worship services. Go to https://mtcalvaryep.360unite.com/ho me Then click on the Facebook link near the bottom of the first page! Hallelujah, He is risen indeed!
A blessed Easter to all!
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.
Maundy Thursday, April 17-Worship
at 5:30
Good Friday Noon-April 18
Easter Worship Service
April 20 at 9:00-10:00 a.m.
St. Francis of Assisi Anglican Church
Stations of the Cross - Fridays in Lent
† 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
8:00 a.m. Mass
10:00 a.m. Mass
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
From Galilee To The Cross: The Victory Of Easter
The journey From Galilee to the Cross reaches its most powerful and transformative moment this weekend.
Good Friday and Easter Sunday are at the heart of our faith, marking both the ultimate sacrifice and the greatest victory the world has ever known. Join us as we reflect on the suffering of Christ on Good Friday and celebrate His resurrection on Easter Sunday. These final two messages in our series will remind us why Jesus walked this path and what it means for each of us today.
Two days that changed the world
Good Friday: The Road to the Cross In these final hours, Jesus endured unimaginable suffering, betrayal, and agony as He bore the weight of the world's sins. This message will guide us
through His final words on the cross and the depth of His sacrifice made out of love for humanity. As we partake in communion, we will remember the price paid for our redemption. Good Friday Communion Service – April 18th
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/
Cornerstone Church of Estes Valley – 2200 Mall Rd., Estes Park, CO
New Covenant Church – 1423
Country Rd 84W, Allenspark, CO
Two days that changed the world Join us as we reflect on the suffering of Christ on Good Friday and celebrate His resurrection on Easter Sunday.
Good Friday: The Road to the Cross In these final hours, Jesus endured unimaginable suffering, betrayal, and agony as He bore the weight of the world's sins. This message will guide us through His final words on the cross and the depth of His sacrifice made out of love for humanity. As we partake in communion, we will remember the price paid for our redemption.
Good Friday Communion Service –April 18th
6:00 p.m. – Message by Pastor Charlie Busch
Cornerstone Church of Estes Valley –2200 Mall Rd., Estes Park, CO
Easter Sunday: The Road to Emmaus
Easter Sunday: The Road to Emmaus
6:00 p.m. – Message by Pastor Charlie Busch
Cornerstone Church of Estes Valley –2200 Mall Rd, Estes Park, CO
This Easter, we will explore the remarkable story of Jesus appearing to Cleopas and his companion on the road to Emmaus. As they walked together, Jesus explained how the Old Testament pointed to the coming Messiah, revealing the fulfillment of God's promises. In their grief, they didn’t recognize Him— until He broke bread with them.
This message is one of hope, revelation, and transformation, reminding us that even in our doubts and uncertainties, Jesus walks alongside us,
This Easter, we will explore the remarkable story of Jesus appearing to Cleopas and his companion on the road to Emmaus. As they walked together, Jesus explained how the Old Testament pointed to the coming Messiah, revealing the fulfillment of God's promises. In their grief, they didn’t recognize Him—until He broke bread with them.
This message is one of hope, revelation, and transformation, reminding us that even in our doubts and uncertainties, Jesus walks alongside us, opening our hearts to His truth.
Easter Celebration Sunday Services –April 20th
10:30 a.m.– Message by Pastor Bruce Finger
Cornerstone Church of Estes Valley –2200 Mall Rd., Estes Park, CO
11:00 a.m.– Message by Pastor Dennis Clermont
New Covenant Church – 1423 Country Rd 84W, Allenspark, CO
A Welcoming Community: Looking for a church where you can experience love, truth, and fellowship? We’d love to have you join us!
If you missed earlier messages in the series, you can watch them on our YouTube channel through our website: www.ccestes.com.
Come and experience the meaning of Easter in a fresh way. Jesus’ journey didn’t end at the cross—it led to an empty tomb! Join us as we celebrate the greatest victory of all time.
opening our hearts to His truth. Easter Celebration Sunday Services –April 20th
10:30 a.m.– Message by Pastor Bruce Finger
Cornerstone Church of Estes Valley –2200 Mall Rd., Estes Park, CO 11:00 a.m.– Message by Pastor Dennis Clermont
New Covenant Church – 1423 Country Rd 84W, Allenspark, CO
A Welcoming Community: Looking for a church where you can experience love, truth, and fellowship? We’d love to have you join us!
If you missed earlier messages in the series, you can watch them on our YouTube channel through our website: www.ccestes.com.
Come and experience the meaning of Easter in a fresh way. Jesus’ journey didn’t end at the cross—it led to an empty tomb! Join us as we celebrate the greatest victory of all time.
Gemfire Jewelry + Crystals is looking for Retail Manager
FT/PT
$18-$24+, Sales Associates
$15-$18 FT/PT. 106 E. Elkhorn Ave. email: gemswave@gmail.com tel: 970.403.9515
YMca OF the ROcKieS
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
YMca OF the ROcKieS
80511
FOOD SeRVice OFFice
Ma n a g eR
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
We’re hiring for the following
starting at $22.61/hr.: To apply visit www.albertsonscompanies.com select Careers then search for Estes Park, CO to locate jobs After your application has been completed, please call our hiring manager Ann at 970.586.4447.
Warehouse Worker
- Driver
$2 2 /hr
Small Vacation Rental Management company seeking person experienced with the ins and outs of the property management industry. Must have good driving record and own transportation. 3-6 hours a day 5-6 days a week. June through October. Must be able to work weekends. Experience in the cleaning requirements for inspections. Knowlege of Microsoft Office and can learn other computer programs, Able to do minor repairs a plus. Send your info and work history to RMPS.estes@yahoo.com
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
YMca OF the ROcKieS
tunn e l Ro a d
rk, color a do, 80511
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.
j o bs.ymc aro ck ie s. or g
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
A-Frame Home on a beautiful and peaceful 1.14-acre lot for long term rental.
Home is located in the Carriage Hills Subdivision fully paved and close to town, school, restaurants, shopping and hiking/biking trails. Approximately 1,000 sq. ft. 2-bedroom, 1 Bath.
Loft Bedroom has a balcony and there is a large deck off front to take in all the beauty of the area. The driveway is paved and there is a detached 2 car garage. Available Mid May.
$2,000/mo. plus utilities.
Text 402-660-6856
JOIN OUR TEAM!
Full details on employment opportunities and the application can be found at estes.org/jobs.
Regular Full-time
Groundworker
Police Officer I - III
Restorative Justice Program Manager
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!
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: epenterprisesllc @outlook.com
Come and join our
need of
Commercial Rentals
OFFICE SPACE For Rent 970-290-4488
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
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.
Estes Valley Fire Protection District is hiring for a full-time Wildland Fire Risk Reduction Mitigation Crew.
This position will have a starting salary of $48,000-$60,000 depending on qualifications plus benefits. See job description and posting for more details at https://www.estesvalleyfire.org/apply
Flexible hours. Year round job.
Send your resume to: villagelaundry1@gmail.com or pick up application at 172 S. St. Vrain Ave.
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
Cleaning
“A clean home is a happy home” Book us for your next cleaning!
