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In Chinese, the character for perseverance is often the same as the one used for patience. . . . Human experience is the story of perseverance. . . . Think of all the people you know . . . who have just kept going, who didn’t yield, who were tenacious, steadfast, patient.
Margaret J. Wheatley
In my life, I endeavor to persevere. In American business, in Town Hall, through daily challenges, disasters, personal ups and downs, hanging in there is a powerful quality. Sometimes patience is the greatest virtue, sometimes mental fortitude, sometimes words of support from others are needed to persevere through myriad puzzles and problems. To achieve good change in the world, we must never yield to hopelessness.
My working life has been to persevere from within. The hardest problems in business (for profit, not-for-profit, government), in war and peace, in life, are often not solved by a single action. Navigation, sensibility, calmness, and communication are key. Learn the ropes, help others learn the ropes, then pull the right ropes at the right time. Be part of the fabric, don’t shred the connections. The primary goal is to get the job done well together. Along the way, it’s OK to add light, humanity, humor.
What are the elements that guide you, that you advocate, to get through the toughest of times? Faith/hope/love? Love/joy/peace? Wait & hope, like the Count of Monte Cristo? Spirit, by whatever words you define that? Reliance on others? Whatever helps you persevere, is alright, alright.
Ours is not the task of fixing the entire world all at once, but of stretching out to mend the part of the world that is within our reach. Any small, calm thing that one
soul can do to help another soul . . . will help immensely.
Clarissa Pinkola Estes
Patience is required to “guide from the inside.” Opportunism is key; fix or build or negotiate what you can when you can. One must see the long view and move forward despite the hurdles and delays and backsteps. In a larger institution, your impact is generally evolutionary, not revolutionary. Within Town Hall, or any business, the skills of diplomacy and collaboration come in mighty handy.
Grow old along with me! The best is yet to be, the last of life for which the first was made.
Robert Browning
The Town of EP brought a topic to the Board on February 25 about establishing opportunities for senior engagement, base funding, and more. In comparison to the State of Colorado, where 16% of the people are age 65 or older, Estes Park has 40% age 65 or older. In Estes, we persevere! Boulder and Fort Collins are 12%; Loveland 21%; Steamboat 17%. We’re the winner in the “maturity” category. I’m happy to elevate services to this important group. While the Town serves all, many of our seniors are underserved. It's not easy bein’ green.
Kermit the Frog (song written by Joe Raposo)
I get feedback about these columns. Thanks for that, including the debate, criticism, pushback. That’s how I learn and grow.
I wish [for you to] respect the differences of others, because the worth and virtues of each person often remain to be discovered. I wish you to resist the stagnation, the indifference, and the negative values of our time.
---Jacques Brel
Each of us is unique. We’re all humans. But our experiences and education are our own. As we grow, analytic and abstract thought develops. Our information sources and influences lead us to our own array of facts (verify those!), philosophies, beliefs. We grow and socialize and interact with and work with all of these other one-of-a-kind humans. Openness and empathy are key. We do have common ground. We must seek to understand others and form constructive relationships with them.
Despite the differences, I believe that most people want to do good work and want good outcomes for their families, around the world. I’m disheartened when I see mean-spiritedness or cruelty in our society. Whether you’re a retiree, a postmillennial worker, a student, a CEO, a housekeeper, a soldier or sailor or pilot, a housing developer, a shopkeeper, a salesman, a politician, an employee of the Town, a journalist, a hardworking honest immigrant, an elderly person, a pastor, a farmer, a wanderer, whatever, you deserve to be treated with humanity as long as you provide the same. Connect, be patient, find a positive path, persevere.
“Of all kinds of credulity, the most obstinate . . . is that of [those who] resign the use of their own eyes and ears and resolve to believe nothing that does not favor those whom they profess to follow. . . . [These men] deny the most notorious facts, contradict the most cogent truths, and persist in asserting today what they asserted yesterday, in defiance of evidence.”
Samuel Johnson, June 17, 1758
Your Vote And Your Questions Can Make A Difference!
The Estes Valley will hold Special District elections on Tuesday, May 6, 2025. These are districts to which you pay taxes. Separate ballots from each district will include candidates for the Board of Directors of the Park Hospital District, the Estes Valley Fire Protection District, and the Estes Valley Recreation and Park District
Seeking Your Questions for Special Districts Election Candidates
Park Hospital District Board.
The Park Hospital District will continue as a special taxing district, helping to generate tax revenues that will support local health care operations and improvements. The PHD Board will oversee the tax district, but oversight of the hospital will transfer to the new EPH Board.”
The League of Women Voters of Estes Park invites the public to send us questions for the candidates of the Hospital District and the Fire District. Please keep in mind that the role of the Hospital District Board may change. As published by local media in February,
“If the partnership with UCHealth is finalized, Estes Park Health (EPH) will create its own, nonprofit hospital board of directors. This board is expected to be made up of Estes Park community members, board members nominated by the Park Hospital District (PHD) Board, and UCHealth leaders. The nonprofit board will help oversee the hospital’s operations, provider credentialing, quality, safety and overall performance. The EPH board will be separate from the
The charge(s) are merely an accusation and the defendant is presumed innocent until and unless proven guilty.
On 3/5/2025 at 7:58 a.m. an incident occurred at 537 Big Thompson Ave. where two parties confronted each other after a road rage incident and got into a verbal altercation. On scene police issued a citation for harassment to a 23 year old male from Estes Park.
On 3/5/2025 at 7:58 a.m. an incident occurred at 537 Big Thompson Ave. in which two parties confronted each other after a road rage incident and got into a
Please Submit Your Questions by Tuesday noon Tuesday, March 25 to voterservice@ lwv-estespark.org. The League will consider all questions received and will choose the most relevant questions. The League plans to use the questions during a live forum on Monday, April 7th for the Hospital District Candidates. For the Estes Valley Fire Protection District candidates, the league will post the questions and the candidates’ answers on local news and media outlets.
Make sure you are registered to vote to receive your ballot by mail by going to GoVoteColorado.gov or VOTE411.org
The League of Women Voters is a nonpartisan education and advocacy organization, neither supporting nor opposing individual candidates or political parties at any level of government.
verbal altercation. On scene police issued a citation for harassment to a 49 year old female from Estes Park.
On 3/8/2025 at 4:24 p.m. police contacted a 49 year old female from Estes Park at 333 E. Wonderview Ave. The female was contacted while operating a motor vehicle while leaving the area who showed signs of impairment. She was charged with driving a vehicle while under the influence of alcohol and driving a vehicle with blood alcohol content of 0.08 or more. She was arrested and transported to the Larimer County Jail.
EVFPD firefighters generally respond to medical calls in their personal vehicles, allowing for a faster response. On other incidents, firefighters respond to a fire station to respond in department apparatus with specialized equipment.
During the week of March 2nd, 2025, the Estes Valley Fire Protection District
(EVFPD) responded to five calls for service. This included:
• Alarm Activation: 2
• Smoke Investigation: 1
• Odor Investigation: 1
• Possible Gas Leak: 1 www.estesvalleyfire.org
Join The Circus; Dress The Part: The Nonprofit Network Pitches A Big Fundraising Tent
By: Karen McPherson, Estes Nonprofit Network
The Estes Nonprofit Network hosts Circus: A Fundraising Extravaganza on April 18, 6 - 10 p.m. at the Estes Park Event Center. The first two hours of this 21+ event will be carnival games, circus tricks, contortionists, face painting, balloon twisters, and a bouncy house, oh my! Dancing begins at 8 p.m. There just wasn’t enough time at last year’s PROM to dance, so Jammin’ DJ is coming back for a dedicated two-hour block to rattle the big top.
The outcome of this year’s peer-to-peer “Dunk-Raiser” will take place before the dancing begins. The Dunk-Raiser opens on April 1: vote with your wallets to dunk or save seven different familiar faces from Estes Park. All votes go to support the Estes Nonprofit Network’s work to strengthen and support the local nonprofit industry. When our nonprofit industry thrives, so does our community.
This 21+ event is this year’s version of
the Network’s annual costumed fundraiser. The Network has hosted a Queen’s Ball, a Night on the Homefront, an Aprés Ski Party, a Night in the 70s, and a Night in Bedrock to name a few. This year, as always, you are encouraged to wear ostrich feathers and/or top hats but costumes are not required. Circus tickets are now on sale. And for those of you with a business that believes in the power of nonprofits: sponsorship tables are available. Visit www.bit.ly/enn-circus. Mark your calendars, gather your crew, and get ready for an unforgettable night of classic games, ridiculous prizes, a dance party that won’t quit, food trucks, entertainment, and plenty of surprises.
Entry into the Circus Extravaganza starts at just $75. All tickets come with $25 food truck vouchers because, well, you will need to stay fueled. Visit www.bit.ly/enn-circus. The circus is coming to town!
Celebrating Our Local Women Of Impact
By: Estes Chamber of Commerce
“We believe Women of Impact connect, encourage, engage, and enable positive change by inspiring actions that move our community forward, not only when they are actively engaged in a project or event, but also through living their lives with passion and purpose and embracing changes that innovate us for the future,” said Colleen DePasquale, President, Estes Chamber of Commerce.
“Estes Park has a long history of fostering the growth of women leaders. Bank of Colorado is proud to support these local Women of Impact, who empower our community to thrive. We’re grateful to have the opportunity to recognize them publicly and say “Thank you,” says Christina Kraft, Estes Park Market President, Bank of Colorado, and sponsor of this year’s Women of Impact.
Please join us in celebrating these 30 local women leaders, who were nominated for by their peers, colleagues, friends, and family, as exemplary role models who have strong and powerful voices, who display optimism and persistence, and who have a strong sense of self confidence that they instill in others. Tune into the Estes Chamber on Instagram to read more about each woman, throughout the month of March.
Deena Sveinsson of the Estes Valley
Photo Club, Susan Hochstetler of Hochstetler Resorts, Robin Converse of the League of Women Voters of Estes Park, Denise Shank a Volunteer / Philanthropist, Brittany Wild of Estes Cares, Jenny Miles of Bank of Estes Park, Jean Tasker of Bank of Estes Park, Natasha Pleshkova of the Ukraine Fundraiser, Iryna Irkliienko of the Ukraine Fundraiser, Val Thompson of You Need Pie, Connie Leavitt of Village Thrift, Julie Bunton of the Estes Valley Rec Center, Julie Mowat of Estes Valley Crisis Advocate, Sue Yowell of the EP Learning Place, Ashley Silva of EP elementary school, Lisa Williams of Gold Mine Business, Cindy Mackin of Visit Estes Park, Vicki Papineau of the Senior Center, Renee Hodgden of the Senior Center Board, Stephanie Klein of EP High School Counselor, Niki Gassman of Bridge and Bank of Estes Park, Lisa Hohensee of The Bridge, Maureen McCann of The Bridge and Mad Moose, Estee Rivera of Rocky Mountain Conservancy, Patti Brown of Estes Valley Voice, and Elizabeth Clark of the Kahuna memorial project.
The Women of Impact program is generously sponsored by Bank of Colorado and supported by Mueller & Pye, CPAs. The public celebration of their recognition was also made possible by The Barrel.
Eagle Scouts Help Retire Old U.S. Flags With Dignity
A partnership with the Larimer County Clerk & Recorder’s Office and Scouting America Troop 97 has developed an honorable way for community members to retire worn or damaged U.S. flags.
Eagle Scout Grey Sprister and other scouts in Troop #97 worked to build three flag retirement boxes for public use where worn-out U.S. flags can be dropped for retirement. Placing a wornout or damaged flag in the trash is considered undignified.
The boxes are from Sprister’s Eagle Scout service project, located at Larimer County Clerk & Recorder Offices in Fort Collins, Loveland, and Estes Park.
“I’m honored to support the scouts’ meaningful community service project, providing dedicated retirement flag boxes for our residents,” said Tina Harris, Larimer County Clerk & Recorder. “Properly retiring our nation’s flag symbolizes respect and patriotism, and this project reflects the Scouts’ commitment to service, tradition, and honor. I applaud their dedication to our community and their role in preserving this important tradition.”
The boxes are available for public use now. For more information, call the Larimer County Clerk’s Office, at 970-4987840 or by email at larimer_clerk@co.larimer.co.us.
2025 Women of Impact honorees who attended the celebration on March 6th
Strategies To Engage “I Don’t Like To Fundraise” Board Members
By: Karen McPherson, Estes Nonprofit Network
Every nonprofit is engaged in fundraising and it is one of the board’s primary roles. But many board members shy away from fundraising because they don’t see themselves as fundraisers—and maybe they don’t have to. This session provides nonprofit leaders with practical, no-pressure strategies to engage board members in fundraising in ways that align with their skills, interests, and comfort levels. Attendees will learn how to implement a “Development Menu,” break down fundraising fears, and create a step-by-step approach to board fundraising engagement—leading to increased board ownership and financial sustainability.
This workshop is geared toward nonprofit leaders, development staff, and board chairs looking to activate their board members in fundraising without intimidation. Registration is now open via www.bit.ly/enn-education.
Upcoming programs include: “Leveraging Your Brand for Success,” a threepart series in April and May; a onehour “Sip of Knowledge” Introduction to Planned Giving over coffee at KIND Coffee; and a two-hour workshop in May, “The Top 5 Things Every Nonprofit Board Member Must Know.” Full details found at epnonprofit.org.
Rocky Mountain Conservancy Featured At Next Learn With The League Wednesday, March 26
At the next Learn With The League, learn about the Rocky Mountain Conservancy, Rocky Mountain National Park's nonprofit partner since 1931. At this meeting, you’ll hear from Estee Rivera Murdock, Executive Director of the Rocky Mountain Conservancy. The event will take place on Wednesday, March 26 at 10:00 a.m. at the American Legion Hall, 850 N. St. Vrain
Rivera has served as executive director since 2017 as the Conservancy supported the park through major disruptions including government shutdowns, wildfires, and the COVID pandemic.
park staff and researchers
• Acquisition of key land tracts
The Conservancy’s achievements include:
• Construction of workforce housing for
•Significant trail work and historic preservation completed by the Conservancy’s Conservation Corps
Rivera completed her undergrad and graduate degrees at the University of Arizona in Anthropology, Spanish, and Geography.
Prior to joining the Conservancy, Rivera worked in the headquarters of the National Park Service where she helped implement the “Every Kid Outdoors” program, which provides national park passes to fourth grade students.
She lives in Estes Park with her husband and teenage daughter.
All are welcome to attend. No registration is necessary.
Zoom Coffee Program "Estes Park Salud Today" With Doug Frisbie, President Of Estes Park Salud Foundation
Join us for a Zoom Coffee this Saturday, March 15 from 10 - 11
a.m.
We will go behind the scenes with Doug Frisbie, President of Estes Park Salud Foundation, who will present a program which explains why Salud faces a financial crisis, why other health care providers could not replace Salud, and what is at stake for our community if Salud were to
close.
Registration is required for this “Estes Park Salud Today” program, go to www.lwvestespark.org for your Zoom invitation.
All are welcome to this free community program.
Estee Rivera Murdock
Doug Frisbie
The Peak Transit Service Seeks 2025 Sponsorships
The Town’s Parking & Transit Division is now inviting new sponsors for The Peak’s 2025 transit season. Transit sponsorship allows nonprofits and businesses to market their products or services in a highly visible manner while also supporting the Town’s free seasonal transit service.
The Peak’s sponsorship levels can accommodate budgets of all sizes, with ad options starting at $400 for the entire summer season. Sponsorships are available on a first-come, first-served basis. Some opportunities sell out quickly. Access the 2025 sponsorship application and instruc tions at www.estes.org/transit, or request a copy via email by contacting Dana Klein, Parking & Transit Manager, at dklein@estes.org. Applications must be received no later than Friday, March 28.
and RV Park to the YMCA of the Rockies
campus
Gold Route: Serving The Stanley Hotel campus and Fall River Road corridor to Rocky Mountain Gateway
Silver Route: A loop serving the State Highway 7 corridor, a portion of Fish Creek Road near the Estes Park School District campus, and Lake Estes
The Peak’s vehicles are each equipped with a wheelchair lift and bicycle racks. Summer and fall routes for the 2025 transit season include:
Red Route (Downtown Trolley): Continuous loop serving stops along Elkhorn Avenue
Blue Route: Serving Big Thompson Avenue / U.S. 34, Dry Gulch Road and Lower Stanley Village
Brown Route: Serving portions of downtown, including East Riverside Drive, Marys Lake Road, Spur 66 past Elk Meadow Lodge
The Red Route (Downtown Trolley) runs every day of the paid parking season, from May 23 through Oct. 19. The 2025 route times are still being finalized. However, the trolley typically runs continuously from 9 a.m to 9 p.m. daily, with a second trolley added on the weekend (Saturday and Sunday only) from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. All other routes (Blue, Brown, Gold, and Silver) typically run 9 a.m. to 9 p.m. daily from July 1 through Sept. 1 (Labor Day), and then transition to weekend-only service through Oct. 19.
The Town’s free transit service is funded through federal grants, the Town’s paid parking program, and the Town general fund. Sponsorship investments will help fund the program’s annual operating costs and ensure continuation of this free service for Estes Valley guests and residents. For more information about The Peak transit program, visit www.estes.org/transit.
Town Of Estes Park Welcomes Tammy Zimmerman As Finance Director
Tammy Zimmerman began service as the Town of Estes Park’s new Finance Director on Feb. 10. Town Administrator Travis Machalek commented, “Tammy brings 30 years of expertise in accounting and finance, including 15 years of leadership in municipal finance, with a proven track record in fiscal management, strategic planning and operational efficiency.” He continued, “We’re so pleased that Tammy joined our team to support the Town’s culture of transparency, accountability, and financial integrity.”
Zimmerman commented, “I am excited to bring the knowledge and experience I have gained throughout my career to serve the Estes Park community. I was drawn to the town’s strong financial foundation and visionary leadership.” Tammy noted that as a former Colorado resident, she was ready to return and embrace the opportunities that come with living and working in one of the most scenic and dynamic parts of the country.
The Town’s Finance Department staff are responsible for the overall financial accounting and reporting processes for the Town. The department’s functions include annual budget and financial report preparation and presentation, accounts receivable, accounts payable, payroll, dog licensing, cash collections, water and electric customer payments, utility activation, utility billing, investment management, debt management, and developing and implementing the Town's Financial policies and procedures. The Finance Department also works directly with the public at the Utility Billing window at Town Hall. For more information, please visit estes.org/finance.
Tammy Zimmerman
For decades my morning routine has included enjoying coffee while reading the daily newspaper. These days however, I flip through the news in mere minutes so I finish long before I’ve drained my first cup of joe. I scan each page and if I see a political headline, I turn the page as fast as I can. I can’t bear to read about the vitriol, the upheaval and the uncertainty. Anymore, I spend more time with the Sudoku than the actual news.
I have never been one to watch TV so television news is a non-issue. No Fox, no MSNBC, no PBS. I don’t want to be an ostrich with my head buried in the sand but I also need to practice self care. If I get a big dose of news, my stomach starts to hurt.
When I’m in the car, I’m tuned into National Public Radio. Most of the time I end up turning the radio off un less the program is “Science Friday.” I could listen to that all day long.
• The color of your clothes can affect how you are perceived by others and can change how you feel. Case in point: sports teams wearing red play better. A review of athletic match-ups in the last 55 years, for example, showed that teams wearing red consistently played better (at home) than teams in any other color. So what happened to the Chiefs at the Super Bowl?
• Your John Hancock can reveal some of your personality traits. One study looked at the signatures of 500 chief financial officers. They found that the CFOs with the largest signatures were more likely to—let’s be kind and say, “bend the truth.” Specifically, they were more likely to misreport the company’s earnings. The research also established a link between large signature size and narcissism.
Which is why, instead of fretting over the state of our country and the world, today we are going to hit snooze on the daily news and find some fun science-ish trivia, kind of like what we would hear on “Science Friday.” Hopefully these tidbits will temporarily take our minds off the unstable tilt of the Earth on its axis these days.
• You remember more dreams when you sleep badly. Research suggests that if you wake up multiple times throughout the night you will more likely recall the content of your dreams. You are also more likely to remember a dream when you are awakened while in the midst of it.
• While the median lifespan of a dog is 10-15 years, the world’s oldest dog, an Australian cattle dog named Bluey, lived to be 29.5 years old. That’s in people years. She died in 1939.
• The world’s oldest cat, Cream Puff, lived to 38 years and three days old. She died in 2005 in Austin, TX. Maybe there’s something to being aloof, independent and stubborn. (Cat owners will tell you their felines friends are also cuddly, playful and amusing.)
• In the US, wind turbines kill about 500,000 birds a year. Research in Norway found collisions with turbine blades declined by nearly 72 percent when one blade was painted black.
NOTE: Cats kill between 1.4 to 3.7 billion birds annually. Would that number decline if we painted part of each cat black?
• You can actually die laughing. A number of people have, usually because their intense laughter caused them to suffocate or have a heart attack. I’ve mentioned in previous columns that I’m a reserved laugher and have never fallen out of my chair or rolled on the floor in a fit of hilarity. Obviously others have.
• The Moon looks upside down in the Southern Hemisphere— compared to the Northern Hemisphere, anyway. (That’s like saying they drive on the “wrong” side in England, rather than on the “other” side.) This means the Man in the Moon looks more like a rabbit in the Southern Hemisphere.
•Plants aren’t the only things that photosynthesize. Algae (which are not plants) and some other organisms (sea slugs and pea aphids) contain chlorophyll and can also turn sunlight into an energy source. As can I. I am solar powered, after all.
• Your brain burns 400-500 calories a day. That’s about a fifth of your total energy requirements. Most of this energy burn comes from the automatic process of controlling your muscles and processing sensory input. Solving tricky problems increases your brain's metabolic requirements too. Here’s a tricky problem to figure out:
• The maximum power one horse can produce is around 24 horsepower. Do the math and make some sense of that. Burn, baby, burn those calories.
• How long can you hold your breath underwater? The record was set in 2021 by a Croatian who held his breath for a total of 24 minutes and 37 seconds. (He hyperventilated using pure oxygen first.) On average, humans can hold their breath between 30-90 seconds. I wonder why these tests are conducted underwater. Would the record be longer if the Croatian were on a lounge chair near the swimming pool rather than in it?
• Finally, Saltines have 13 holes in each cracker. I accept that fact. What I need to know is which is the right side to put the peanut butter on—the salted or unsalted side?
You may let The Thunker know what you think at her e-mail address, donoholdt@gmail.com.
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
Estes Aviation Club Meeting To Focus On Safety And Recent Tragic Events
In The Flying Community
Aviation safety has dominated the headlines, affecting every journey we take. In response, the Aviation International Club of Estes Park warmly invites you to join us at The Wapiti Colorado Pub, located at 1350 Fall River Rd, on Wednesday, March 19th from 5:00 to 6:00 p.m. for a social hour. Enjoy dinner
“We have been blown away by how incredibly kind, helpful, and wonderful all of the Trailblazer team members have been, including Angelo, Teresa, & the two staff members who came out to install for us. Everybody is so wonderful! We are so thankful to the Trailblazer Estes Team for making it so easy and even a pleasant experience!”
or a drink and connect with fellow enthusiasts before an informative presentation from 6:00 to 7:30 p.m.
Our Vice President, Dave Arterburn, will lead a concise yet thought-provoking discussion on aviation safety—exploring what it truly means, clarifying common misconceptions, and examining how it plays into recent accident investigations. Learn about the roles of the NTSB and other agencies in ensuring our air transportation system remains reliable and take part in an open forum for questions and discussion. Dave is a career Army aviator and test pilot, still active in helicopter research and development, and the wide variety of aviation experience in our club should provide some fascinating discourse.
Our monthly meetings are open to the public and anyone with an interest in space or aviation is welcome to become a member. Whether you're a frequent flyer, a curious traveler, or simply interested in the world of aviation, this evening promises valuable insights and lively conversation. We look forward to seeing you at The Wapiti!
Dr. Max Salfinger Announces Candidacy For Park Hospital District Board
Submitted by: Dr. Max Salfinger
My name is Max Salfinger, and I am running for the Park Hospital District Board. With a lifelong career in public health, medical microbiology, and laboratory leadership, I am ready to bring my passion for healthcare and commitment to the Estes Park community and the Park Hospital District Board.
Since moving to Estes Park in 2021, my wife and I have embraced this incredible community.
will make sure that the healthcare needs of the Estes Valley community are heard and communicated to our new partners.
Whether it is volunteering, attending town hall meetings, or enjoying the natural beauty of Rocky Mountain National Park, we are deeply invested in Estes Park’s future. As a frequent attendee of Park Hospital District Board meetings, I see both the strengths and challenges facing Estes Park Health, and I believe my experience can help shape a bright future for healthcare in our community.
My career has been built on improving public health systems, ensuring accurate and timely diagnostics, and leading teams toward innovation. Now, I want to apply that experience to ensure Estes Park Health remains a trusted, high-quality resource for our community.
My experience serving on the Estes Park Health Foundation Board since December 2023 enables me to develop relationships with management and hospital staff as well as gaining an understanding of the Estes Park Health needs and operations. My membership on various committees helped me understand and identify fund raising needs and opportunities.
If elected, I will focus on five key priorities:
Successful Affiliation with UC Health
– Completing the affiliation with UC Health is the number one priority. This will provide sustainable long-term healthcare to the Estes Valley for the foreseeable future. As a new Park Hospital District board member, I would support the affiliation 100%.
Represent Community Interests - According to a recent press release from Estes Park Health, the Park Health District Board will have different responsibilities after affiliation with UCHealth. I
Strengthening Financial Stability – A financially strong hospital is essential for maintaining high-quality care. I will work with UC Health to advocate for sustainable financial strategies that prioritize patient care, staff retention, and smart resource allocation.
Enhancing Patient Experience –Estes Park Health should provide the best possible experience for every patient, from improved access to services to ensuring clear communication and compassionate care.
Supporting Innovation & Recruitment – Our hospital must stay ahead of medical advancements and attract top healthcare professionals. I will work with UC Health to foster an environment where medical staff have the tools, training, and support they need to thrive.
I am very excited to bring my expertise and passion for healthcare to the Park Hospital District Board. Let us work together to keep Estes Park Health strong for years to come.
MAX YOUR VOTE… VOTE FOR MAX
About Max Salfinger, M.D. Born and raised in Switzerland, Dr. Salfinger is an internationally recognized expert in clinical microbiology. His career spans leadership roles at the University of Zurich, the New York State Public Health Laboratory, the Florida State Public Health Laboratory system, National Jewish Health in Denver, and was faculty member at the University of South Florida College of Public Health. He has spent decades improving tuberculosis diagnostics and infectious disease testing, earning national recognition for his contributions to public health. Now retired, he remains engaged in research projects and community service in Estes Park.
For more information, contact: Max the candidate at msalfinger@aol.com or text me at 904-476-6783.
Free Tax Preparation Service At The Estes Valley Library
February 3 through April 14, volunteers from the AARP Tax Aide program are once again offering free income tax preparation with electronic filing of federal and Colorado income tax returns. Appointments can be made through the Library in person, by calling 970-586-8116 or by visiting estes-
valleylibrary.org. Some restrictions apply, such as no residential rental property income or out of state returns. Fullyear residents aged 18 and above must file a Colorado tax return before October 15, 2025 to claim your TABOR sales tax refund (the amount varies depending on your income level).
St. Patrick’s Day Features
Corned Beef and Cabbage Braised Corned Beef & Cabbage, Boiled Carrots & Colcannon Potatoes, Soda Bread Steak and Irish Stout Pie Braised Sirloin Steak, Bacon, Onions, Mushrooms, Irish Stout, Rich Beef Stock
Dessert Baileys Panna Cotta
Currant Bread Pudding with Irish Whiskey Sauce
Dr. Max Salfinger
The Emerald Lake Chamber Players In Concert March 22
The Peak to Peak Concert series is pleased to present the Emerald Lake Chamber Players in an exciting concert of classic and recent works for flute, violin, viola and cello on Saturday, March 22nd at 2:00 p.m. at the Shepherd of the Mountain Lutheran Church at 2000 Ptarmigan Train in Estes Park. The ensemble consists of Oratorio Society conductor Robert Charles Howard on flute, concertmaster, Jonquil Thoms on violin, principal violist, Chase Jordan and principal cellist Rich Woessner. The Emerald Lake Chamber Players have been performing together for four seasons. All are members of the Estes Valley Chamber Orchestra.
The program will feature music by composers Eric Ewazen, Myroslav Skoryk, Ferdinand Ries, and Jacques Castérède. There will be a reception following the program to meet the musicians. The Peak to Peak concert series is sponsored by the Oratorio Society of Estes Park. The concert is free, but donations are gratefully accepted.
Contemporary Composer Eric Ewazen (1954 - ) was born in Cleveland, Ohio and studied composition at the Eastman School of music and the Juilliard School with Milton Babbitt, Gunther Schuller, Joseph Schwantner and others. Eric is currently on the faculty of the Juilliard School. Mr. Ewazen attributes some of his musical style to his Ukrainian heritage and fondly remembers hearing his grandfather playing Ukrainian fold songs and dances. Some of that spirit lives in the delightful melodies and textures of his Bridgehampton Suite, which was composed in 2011 for the Bridgehampton Chamber Musicians to whom it is
dedicated. Eric describes his music as tonal and neo-romantic, Myroslav Skoryk (1938 – 2020) was born in Lviv and died in Kyiv. He composed his Melodiya in 1982 for a Soviet war film. In recent times it has become a symbol of resistance to the barbaric invasions of Ukraine 2014 and 2022. It’s passionate melodies, according to the composer were inspired by the spirit and structure of Ukrainian folk songs. Ferdinand Ries (1784 – 1838) studied violin, piano and cello in youth in Bonn. His father taught piano to Beethoven and Ferdinand later studied piano with Beethoven. Ries has been described as Beethoven’s right-hand man and was even instrumental in securing the commission for the Beethoven ninth symphony. His music was highly regarded during his life and embodies the spirit of late classicism leaning toward romanticism. His A minor Quartet is rich and dramatic with highly sophisticated development throughout.
Jacques Castérède (1926-2014) was born in Paris and studied piano and composition at the Paris Conservatory where he later was professor of solfège. He received many awards in piano and composition include the Prix de Rome in 1943. Ombres et Clartés (Light and shadow), composed in 2010, is a feast of instrumental color and fresh melodic and rhythmic imagination. Castérède described his music as follows: "I started off with fairly traditional music of broadened tonality orienting myself towards increased structural freedom and more conscious coherence of language through the increasingly frequent use of modal, chromatic and diatonic movements.”
Sandra Wong And Mestas Perez To Perform At Estes Park High School Auditorium March 29th
Join violinist and nyckelharpist Sandra Wong and pianist Mestas Perez for an unforgettable evening of music at the Estes Park High School Auditorium on Saturday, March 29th, at 7:00 p.m.
Their dynamic performance will feature a blend of classical favorites and original works, offering something for everyone.
Tickets: $20 for adults, $18 for seniors, $12 for youth (ages 6-18), and free for children 5 and under. Purchase tickets online at www.fineartsguild.org, or at the door.
For more information, contact: fineartsguildep@gmail.com
Parkinson’s Disease Support Group Meeting
Tuesday, February 18
The next meeting of the Parkinson’s Disease Support Group will be held Tuesday, February 18 in the Hondius Room at the Estes Valley Library from 3:30 to 5:00 p.m. Monthly meetings are held on the third Tuesday of the month. All affected by this progressive neurological disease are welcome to attend to bring their own experiences, strength and hope and come together for the good of the group.
Taste Of Estes Is Coming! Get
Your Tickets Now
It’s time to get your taste buds ready for a delicious evening at Quota Club of Estes Park’s 38th annual Taste of Estes event.
This fun community tradition features some of the area's best restaurants offering savory samples of their menu offerings. At the event, you will enjoy an endless array of delicious food and beverages from Avant Garde Aleworks
Bird & Jim
Cinnamon’s Bakery
Claire’s Restaurant & Bar
event's success.
Taste of Estes is a fun springtime event where one cannot only enjoy great food and drinks, but also venture out and reconnect with friends and neighbors who may not have been seen during these long winter months.
Cousin Pat’s Pub and Grill
Ed’s Cantina
Ember
Estes Park Distillery, Home to Bob & Tony’s
Himalayan Curry & Kabob
Lonigan’s Nightclub & Grill
Rock Cut Brewing
Snowy Peaks Winery
Spice Rack
Starbucks
Sweet Basilico
The Egg of Estes
The Post
The Taffy Shop
YMCA of the Rockies
You Need Pie
The Taste of Estes will be held on Thursday, April 24th, in the Assembly Hall at the YMCA of the Rockies, from 5:30-8:00 p.m. Parking will be available in the administration parking lot and the parking lot behind Wind River Lodge area.
A big shout out to the generous Taste sponsors: State Farm - Susan Fereday,YMCA of the Rockies, Edward Jones - Derek Vinge, First Colorado Realty, Richardson Team Realty, Estes Park News, Glacier Lily Beauty, The Thompson Group and Estes Park Mountain Shop. The support for this event from these businesses is crucial to this
The Estes Park Quota Club is a women’s service club which seeks to serve the community through supporting a variety of charitable purposes. Proceeds from the Taste of Estes tickets go to support the various projects that Quota adopts, such as the Medical Equipment Loan Closet, student grants, hearing and speech needs, service to youth and elderly, helping disadvantaged women and children, and supporting community needs such as providing AED devices for Estes Park Police Department and ambulances for Estes Park Health!
EXCITING NEWS: You spoke and we listened. Many have asked if there was a way they could pay a bit more and have a reserved seat. Well this year you can! You can either purchase one seat, or if you and eight friends want to reserve a whole table you can do that as well. We are setting aside 10 tables of nine to be used for our reserved seating. Individual seats are $50 per person. To reserve a whole table for nine is $500. Tickets for reserved seating can only be purchased by using the QR code below, and your tickets will be available at Will Call when you arrive at the event.
For those who just want to come and enjoy, tickets are now on sale for $35 for adults, and $10 for kids 12 and under. Tickets can be purchased at the Estes Park Visitor’s Center, Macdonald Book Shop, from any Quota member or you can scan the QR code shown here. Get your tickets today, as this event is often a sell-out!
Don’t miss the Taste of Estes, a delicious Estes Park tradition. It is the place to be on April 24th!
Deena Sveinsson’s Photograph Selected By Audubon Photography Awards
Photo by Deena Sveinsson www.deenasveinssonphotography.com
Local conservation and wildlife photographer Deena Sveinsson's photograph, “March of the Little Penguins,” has been selected for the 2024 Audubon Photography Awards Baby Chicks Gallery. The photograph of four baby emperor penguins marching in unison was taken on one of her recent trips to Antarctica. Deena Sveinsson has lived in Estes Park for over 20 years. An airline pilot turned
award winning photographer, Deena can be seen almost daily trying to find unique ways of photographing the wildlife in Rocky Mountain National Park and in the many mountainous areas of Colorado.
More of Deena’s photography can been seen on her website at www.deenasveinssonphotography.com.
Rotary Club Of Estes Park Presents Workshop To Select Goals
Thursday, March 20th
This Thursday we will discuss the results of the four pillars, Membership, Service, Fundraising and Club Management. We will select two to three goals for our club for the next three years.
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, March 18th if joining us for lunch.
Special Sale On Science Fiction And Fantasy Books At Cliffhanger Used Books
Welcome to Estes Park all of you Frozen Dead Guy aficionados!
Damian Gallagher 10th Grade
Congratulations to Damian Gallagher, the Estes Park High School Student of the Week for March 14, 2025.
Damian is the son of Jennifer Kiser.
At EPHS, Damian’s favorite classes are automotive mechanics and computer science because they are fun and have good teachers. He said, “Both Mr. Regan and TJ are nice teachers and they engage me in the subject. Computer science will also help me with my future plans.” Outside of school he really likes to play video games, mostly scary or action games, and games that require teamwork and collaboration. Another thing he likes to do is relax and listen to music. He enjoys mountain biking when the weather is good and is part of Partners Mentoring Youth. He was a guest speaker at their fundraising event and he is proud to be a part of this group because they do so much
good for kids.
When asked a place he likes to visit, Damian said, “I really like going to Oregon because I get to see family. One place I would like to visit in the future is the Minecraft studio in Sweden.”
Damian’s favorite quote is, "Sometimes life is like this tunnel. You can’t always see the light at the end of the tunnel, but if you keep moving, you will come to a better place" from Avatar, the Last Bender. He likes this quote because he says it encourages him to always keep going, even when things get hard.
After graduation, Damian plans to on becoming a game designer or becoming a therapist for children. He is really proud of being invited to tour Colorado State University because of his good test scores.
Cliffhanger Used Books, located on Riverside Drive right next to the Post Office, has a large variety of used books at bargain prices. This month we are running a special sale on Science Fiction and Fantasy books — $3.00 for hardcover and $1.00 for paperback books. We also have a bargain room with books priced at four for $1.00. Plus we have a special sale every Wednesday with three different categories of books priced at $1.00.
Come in and browse. You will certainly find something that appeals to you.
Cliffhanger Used Books is operated by the Friends of the Estes Valley Library Foundation. All of our books are donated, our staff members are volunteers, and all of the money we make goes to support programs at our wonderful Estes Valley Library.
Shopping at Cliffhanger is a win/win. The community benefits, and you find amazing books at amazing prices.
WINTER HOURS
Mondays - Thursdays, 10 a.m. - 8 p.m.
Fridays & Saturdays, 10 a.m. - 5 p.m.
Sundays, 1 - 5 p.m.
Registration is required for most programs! Visit calendar.estesvalleylibrary.org to reserve your spot.
BOOKS & AUTHORS
How Women’s Liberation
Transformed America: Author Talk with Clara Bingham
Thursday, March 20, 12 - 1 p.m., online
What’s Happening At The Estes Valley Library
Join award-winning journalist Clara Bingham for a conversation about her new book, The Movement: How Women’s Liberation Transformed America, 1963-1973. Presented with the Library Speakers Consortium.
Dreams We Chase:
Author Talk with Jennifer Weiner Wednesday, March 26, 5 - 6 p.m., online
Hear from New York Times bestselling author Jennifer Weiner as she discusses how her books have been inspiring readers to self-discover for decades. Presented with the Library Speakers Consortium.
ALL AGES
Maker March:
Sublimate a Zipper Pouch
Friday, March 14, 10 a.m. - 12 p.m., Makerspace repeated Wednesday, March 26, 4 - 6 p.m., Makerspace
Combine cutting-edge sublimation printing technology and a heat press to create a personalized zipper pouch. Recommended for adults, teens, and tweens.
Clay Pies for Pi(e) Day
Friday, March 14, 10:30 a.m. - 12:30 p.m., Library Atrium
In celebration of Pi(e) Day, or 3.14, use polymer bake clay to craft tiny pies as necklaces, earrings, bracelets, or keychains. All ages welcome.
Intro to Needle Felting
Friday, March 14, 1 - 3 p.m., Makerspace
repeated Friday, March 21, 10 a.m. - 12 p.m., Makerspace
repeated Thursday, March 27, 10 a.m. - 12 p.m., Makerspace
Learn the basics of needle felting, a technique that uses barbed needles to sculpt wool fibers into intricate shapes. Recommended for adults and teens.
Maker March: Scrape Art Painting
Tuesday, March 18, 11 a.m. - 12 p.m., Makerspace
repeated Tuesday, March 18, 4 -
5 p.m., Makerspace
repeated Friday, March 28, 10 - 11 a.m., Makerspace
Create two unique paintings (a playful cat and an expressive abstract), then use scrapers and acrylic paint to bring your artwork to life. All ages welcome.
Maker March: Suncatchers
Wednesday, March 19, 10 a.m. - 12 p.m., Makerspace
repeated Monday, March 31, 5:307:30 p.m., Makerspace
Welcome spring sunshine with your own suncatcher! Design a unique insert with alcohol ink, then use the Cricut Maker to tie the piece together. Recommended for adults and teens.
Maker March: Book Boxes
Thursday, March 20, 2:30 - 4:30 p.m., Makerspace
repeated Thursday, March 20, 5:307:30 p.m., Makerspace
Use the laser cutter (and your creativity) to craft a custom book box. Recommended for adults, teens, and tweens.
Intro to Stained Glass
Tuesday, March 25, 10 a.m. - 12 p.m., Makerspace
repeated Tuesday, March 25, 1 - 3 p.m., Makerspace
In this beginner-friendly workshop, learn the fundamentals of how to cut glass, use copper foil, and solder pieces together to produce beautiful stained glass designs. Recommended for adults and teens.
Paint a Spring Sign
Tuesday, April 1, 10 a.m. - 12 p.m., Makerspace
Celebrate the arrival of spring by using acrylic paint to create a charming “Hello Spring” wooden sign, complete with a cute rabbit and blooming flowers. Recommended for adults, teens, and tweens.
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. Presented by AmeriCorps service members.
Monthly Writing Group
Monday, March 17, 5:30 - 7 p.m., Hondius 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.
Makerspace Monthly Meetup
Monday, March 24, 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.
TEENS & KIDS
Maker March: Crepes
Friday, March 14, 3:30 - 4:30 p.m., Hondius Room
repeated Thursday, March 20, 2:303:30 p.m., Hondius Room
repeated Thursday, March 20, 4 - 5 p.m., Hondius Room
Don your chef’s hat and whip up a selection of healthy, sweet, and savory crepes. Can’t attend these events?
Check out a crepe maker from the Library of Things. Bon appétit!
Maker March: Sew Pajama Pants Sunday, March 16, 1:30 - 4:30 p.m., Makerspace
Learn how to read and use sewing patterns, measure and cut fabric, and stitch together cozy, comfy pj pants while using a sewing machine. Recommended for ages 10 and up.
Explore different building and engineering challenges with Legos. Dungeons & Dragons
Sunday, March 23, 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!
Maker March: Mini Bookcases
Thursday, March 27, 3:30 - 5 p.m., Makerspace
Upcycle mint tins into miniature bookcases, then use wood, stickers, paper, hot glue, and cute accessories to frame a selection of tiny books.
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 Bo: Thurs., March 20 at 11 a.m.
MAKERSPACE TRAINING CLASSES
Learn the Laser Cutter Monday, March 17, 10 - 11:30 a.m. repeated Monday, March 17, 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, March 24, 6:30 - 8 p.m., Wasson Room
View meeting agenda and packet materials at estesvalleylibrary.org/board. FRIENDS OF THE LIBRARY FOUNDATION
Cliffhanger Used Books
Cliffhanger Used Books, located next to the Post Office, is operated by the Friends of the Library Foundation, offering gently-used books, movies, and music at discount prices. Open daily from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.
Registration is required for most programs! Visit calendar.estesvalleylibrary.org to reserve your spot.
Once upon a time in the quirky mountain town of Nederland, Colorado, there was a festival known as Frozen Dead Guy Days. The event, as wild as it sounds, was born from the chilling tale of Grandpa Bredo Morstoel, a Norwegian man who ended up cryogenically frozen in a shed after his death. His family, convinced that someday science would figure out how to bring him back to life, shipped his body off to the United States for the ultimate in cold storage. And thus, Bredo became a local legend.
In the early 90s, Bredo's grandson, who lived in the tiny town of Nederland, CO was just trying to keep Grandpa “chillin’” when things got... complicated. The town authorities weren’t exactly thrilled about having a frozen corpse in their midst (who could blame them?), and so Grandpa Bredo's story quickly morphed into a bizarre and beloved tradition. The
The Story Of The Frozen Dead Guy
town threw a festival in his honor, which included everything from coffin races to ice sculpting competitions, because nothing says "celebration of life" quite like coffin races and a frozen dead guy!
Fast-forward to today, and the event is now held in Estes Park, Colorado, with Grandpa Bredo now housed at the Stanley Hotel (cue ominous music). Why?
Because where else would you put a legendary cryogenically frozen grandpa, if not at the hotel that inspired The Shining? In a way, it
makes perfect sense. Guests can now see Bredo frozen solid in his icy tomb, while also experiencing a dash of ghostly vibes and a whole lot of laughter at the festival. It's like a family reunion but with more snow, more weird costumes, and—let's face it— more death-defying adventures than most people get in a lifetime.
So, Grandpa Bredo is still chillin' (literally), his legend growing as his frozen self remains the focal point of a celebration that’s as much about embracing the weirdness of life as it is about defying death
with a cold, frosty smile. And so, Frozen Dead Guy Days lives on, like the world’s weirdest, most hilarious snow globe. Frozen Dead Guy Days, one of Colorado’s most beloved annual events for more than 20 years, is kicking off a new chapter in Estes Park for its third year. Taking place over St. Patrick’s Day weekend on March 14-16, the reborn Frozen Dead Guy Days will feature national and regional touring bands and quirky, good fun all weekend long. The festival will be held at the Estes Park Events Complex and The Stanley Hotel, with satellite events occurring around town.
Festival goers can expect the weird and wonderful happenings from years past, including coffin races and a polar plunge, as well as plenty of new and elevated Estes twists, like a frostbite fashion show, a Bands and Bloodys Sunday Brunch and much, much more.
Estes Park News/ Kris Hazelton
Three Days Of Frigidly Frozen Fun At Frozen Dead Guy Days Festival
Schedule
While the Frozen Dead Guy Days Festival is happening on Saturday, March 15, there is FDGD-themed fun to be had all weekend long across town.
Your ticket to Frozen Dead Guy Days grants you access to Saturday’s festival at the Estes Park Events Complex consisting bands, world famous coffin races and more.
Friday, March 14, 2025
FROZEN DEAD BAR CRAWL
Embark on a Frozen Dead Bar Crawl through Estes Park’s bars and restaurants. Enjoy Frozen Dead specialty drinks and Zombie bites surrounded by icy decorations, creating a unique and chilling atmosphere. Costumes are greatly encouraged but not required. Check out frozendeadguydays.com for complete list of participating establishments.
Free Shuttles will be available!
7:30 – 9:00 p.m. | Lotus
OUTDOOR STAGE - Coffin Race Course
12:00 – 1:00 p.m. | DJ Mack
1:00 – 2:30 p.m. | Coffin Races (Hosted by CBS TV Sports Anchor Romi Bean, DJ Mack & Steph Andelman)
2:30 – 3:30 p.m. | DJ Mack
3:30 – 4:30 p.m. | Coffin Races & Awards
Ceremony (Hosted by CBS TV Sports Anchor Romi Bean, DJ Mack & Steph Andelman)
5:15 – 6:30 p.m. | Michal Menert
6:30 p.m. | LED Dancer Show. DJ
FIRE STAGE - Pavilion
12:00 – 1:00 p.m. | Stepmother Nature
1:00 p.m. to 7 p.m. I MC Aaron the Speaker & DJ Reed Fox
4:00 – 5:00 p.m. | SQWERV
Sunday, March 16, 2025-12:00 -4:00 p.m.
THE POLAR PLUNGE
at The Stanley Hotel
THE ROYAL BLUE BALL
The Stanley Hotel
Costume & dance party-Put on your best Grandpa Bredo or Ice Queen costume and groove to the beats of Break Science and DJ Mack from Sirius XM. The Royal Blue Ball is an enchanting evening where time stands still at the legendary Stanley Hotel. Saturday, March 15, 7-11 p.m. Go to www.stanleyhotel.com/royalblueball.html for tickets and more information.
FROZEN DEAD GUY DAYS FESTIVAL, Saturday, March 15
Estes Park Events Complex
Coffin races, live music, wild games and more.
ICE STAGE - Events Complex
12:00 – 1:00 p.m. | Buster & The Boomers
1:00 – 2:30 p.m. | DJ Mack Sirius XM
2:30 – 3:30 p.m. | Taylor Scott Band
3:30 – 4:15 p.m. | DJ Mack Sirius XM
4:15 – 5:15 p.m. | A-Mac & The Height
5:15 – 5:45 p.m. | DJ Mack Sirius XM
5:45 – 7:00 p.m. | Keller Williams
7:00 – 7:30 p.m. | DJ Mack Sirius XM
Join us for icy escapades at this year’s Polar Plunge Pavilion Party at the Stanley Hotel! Get your tickets now to attend the "freezin’ of the season" –taking the plunge into the icy waters at the Stanley’s Pavilion Pond. A $20 ticket gets participants into the Pavilion Party with hot tunes from DJ Mack, a cash bar, a towel and a time slot to take the plunge. And $10 from each ticket goes to charity, so dress in your most creative plunge-wear and brave the cold for a cause!
Spectator tickets are just $10 (kids 12 and under free) and parking is free, so invite your friends and family to join the party and cheer on the chillin’!
BANDS & BLOODYS BRUNCH
Tavern at the Legion Featuring Night Owl
Join us Sunday morning for an UNLIMITED Breakfast buffet $18, full bar with Mimosa & Bloody Mary specials, and the original psychedelic rock, classic rock sounds of Night Owl.
Bird & Jim Featuring Greg Miles
Join us at Bird & Jim Sunday, March 16th for Frozen Dead Guy Days Bands & Bloodys Brunch fun features & music! 10:30 a.m. - 1:30 p.m. Greg Miles will play in the lounge from 11:00 a.m. - 1:00 p.m. Reservations are encouraged here!
The Barrel Featuring Jingle Jangle
Jabroni
Sip & Paint with Creativity Cabin, 1 p.m. - 4 p.m., Live Music by Say Uncle, 2 p.m. - 5 p.m. Burgers, Street Tacos, Salads and More by EP Bross Food Truck, Sponsored by Deep Eddy Vodka & Odell Brewing Co.
Avant Garde Featuring Jingle
Jangle Jabroni
Brunch hop with us! Stop by the Avant Garde taproom on Sunday, March 16enjoy a beermosa or michelada alongside brunch from Crepes on Wheels and rock out to the musical stylings of Jingle Jangle Jabroni! Drink specials - all day! Food truck - Crepes on Wheels 10 a.m.-6 p.m. Live music - Jingle Jangle Jabroni 11 a.m.-1p.m. Lumpy Ridge Featuring Jason Lenz Join us for Bands & Bloodys Brunch at Lumpy Ridge with Jason Lenz from 10 a.m.-1 p.m. and Mangia Mangia Woodfired Pizza from 10 a.m.-6 p.m.! Bloody Beers and Beer Mosas will be available!
Bogey's Sports Bar Featuring Torae Bands & Bloody’s Brunch at Bogey’s Sports Bar! Join us at Bogey’s Sports Bar for the perfect Sunday brunch vibe—Bands & Bloody’s Brunch! Live Music by Torae Today | 11 a.m. - 1 p.m. Kick back with great
- The Stanley Hotel
- Expedition Lodge
- Holiday Inn Estes Park
- Quality Inn
- The Barrel
- The Bull Pin
- Bird & Jim’s Restaurant
- Trailborn Rocky Mountains
tunes while you sip on a craft Bloody Mary—spicy or original, just the way you like it! Cereal Bar | $5 Unlimited Bowls! Indulge your inner kid (or just your cravings) with an all-you-can-eat cereal bar! Mix and match your favorites and keep the good vibes rolling. We're a full-service bar, so grab your favorite drink, relax, and enjoy the music.
The Post Featuring DJ's & PJ's DJs & PJs Party with the best brunch in town, live music, and bloodys galore. Pajamas are encouraged and incentivized with prizes every half hour!
Ride, Park, Party
Getting to Frozen Dead Guy Days has never been easier! We’re offering free shuttles all weekend long to make sure you can get to the festival without the hassle of parking or driving.
Friday Stops
- Estes Park Visitors Center - Bond Park
Saturday Stops
- Estes Park Visitors Center
- Estes Park Event Center
- The Stanley Hotel
- Bond Park
- Expedition Lodge
- Holiday Inn Estes Park
- Quality Inn
Parking Options
Friday-Sunday
Free parking at the Estes Park Visitor Center Parking Garage.
Saturday
Event Center – $15
High School – $10
100% of the proceeds go to the high school band program.
But wait....there’s MORE!
There’s so much more fun to be had! Go to frozendeadguydays.com and/or tinyurl.com/2hfe6933 for more details and to get your tickets for any ticketed event.
Estes Park News/ Kris Hazelton
Visit Estes Park/John Berry
Estes Park News/ Kris Hazelton
Estes Park News/ Kris Hazelton
Visit Estes Park/John Berry
Visit Estes Park/John Berry
Under our new administration we’ve seen changes occur that we feel are good (ie the migrant influx slowed, some wasteful spending eliminated, etc.); others that cause us to wonder about and be saddened by, due to the impact that they are having on families…families just like ours. One cause for concern is the extensive ‘removal’ of large numbers of people who have been told ‘resign or be fired’. Thousands upon thousands of people have suddenly received their last paychecks from agencies across the nation: the IRS, the FAA, the VA, the National Park Service (affecting us directly), Social Security, and Human Health Services (Medicare) . There probably isn’t much that we can do to change those situations, but we certainly need to keep impacted people in our thoughts, sympathies and prayers. One author put it well: “There isn’t much that I can do, but I can listen to you, I can hurt with you, I can shed a tear with you, as on our way we go.” And, Christians can add, “And we can…and will… pray for you.”
In most cases, these people are facing the loss of more than a paycheck sorely needed to feed their families and survive. It usually impacts their sense of ‘worth’ and selfesteem.
The Bible tells me so! Jesus told a story that relates. In Matthew 20, He said, “The Kingdom of heaven is like a man who goes out to hire laborers for his vineyard”. He goes early and hires one group, promising them a certain pay for their day’s work. Several times during the day he goes out and hires additional workers, promising to pay what is right. Finally, he goes out one hour before quitting time and, finding some hanging around, he asks them, “Why are you standing here idle?” Their answer is touching and speaks to our current situation. “Because no one has hired us!” they said. In other words, “No one wanted us!” Perhaps you, as a child, found yourself on a ball field as two teams divided up for a ballgame and you were the last one picked, you know how that feels. “You take him!” “No, you take him!” How long does it take to say: “I’m a nobody! Nobody wants me!” Your sense of self-worth goes out the window. These thousands of ‘new hires’, as well as many who’ve invested years in joyful employment in their position, have been told, “You are no longer wanted, needed, or appreciated. Now go!”
The justification is used that many are not ‘doing their jobs’ and, therefore, unless they can justify what they have accomplished recently, they must comply with the ‘get out’ order. Now, of course, we know that there will be some workers in some agencies, and businesses, whose ‘get up and go, has got up and went’. I once heard my dad, a lumberyard foreman in Montana, being asked by a customer, “How many people work here, Marion?” With a twinkle in his eye, my father said, “Oh, about half of them!”, and they both laughed. I was amused to read a sign on a bulletin board of a small airport lobby in Payson, Arizona. It read, “If you don’t believe in the resurrection of the dead, you should be here at quitting time!” Incidents such as these remind us that not every person is devoted to his job responsibilities…but most of them are, and, in the words of Solomon in Ecclesiastes, are “men who, eat and drink and make their soul enjoy good in their labor, which is from the hand of God.” (Eccl.2:24) and “There is nothing better, than that a man should rejoice in his own works; for that is his portion.” (Eccl. 3:22).In other words, they ‘take pride in their work’, and ‘gain pride…self-worth… from their work’.
I strongly believe that most people, recently ‘fired’, viewed their job as a means of fulfilling their ‘calling’ and finding a great deal of joy and self-fulfillment in the completion of their work from day-to-day. Therefore, those who have been pulled back from doing this deserve our thoughts, concern, and ongoing prayers that God will soon open doors for them to find their ‘joy’ and ‘sense of self-worth’, as well as their financial support, somewhere else…soon. So, let’s be much in prayer for these challenged folks. Bob Lewis
What Is Ballet Renaissance?
Ballet Renaissance is an independent 501 (c)(3) nonprofit organization (IRS classification: public charity), committed to educating and inspiring youth and the community through the art of classical ballet. Since it's inception (1997) Ballet Renaissance has operated with no director's salary, and with most tasks (including a good amount of teaching), donated in kind, by volunteers. This has kept Ballet Renaissance’s annual operating budget under $100,000, and, in recent years (with classes and performances in Michigan not yet rebooted, post March 2020 COVID shutdown), under $50,000. Giving is powerful Ballet Renaissance was founded in southeast Michigan in June of 1997 by a group of college dance majors, most of whom had professional ballet training, all of whom had a heart and passion for classical ballet.
The group recognized the wealth of talented young dancers in the area and the importance of classical training for young dancers who sought to pursue college dance scholarships and/or professional careers in dance.
Simultaneously, the group recognized that, juxtaposed dramatically upon this landscape, was the fact that most of these young dancers had zero access to classical training.
Collectively, the group held a common belief in the transformative power of dance to inspire individuals and to
uplift communities, perhaps even to unite divided ones.
This belief is at the heart of BR’s work, and in this soil Ballet Renaissance (“dance re-birth”) was born.
In 2011, after 14 years in Michigan, the home office headquarters for Ballet Renaissance was moved to Estes Park, Colorado. Classes and performances in Estes began in partnership with Center Stage (fall 2011), while classes and performances in southeast Michigan continued. Mid March of 2020, all in-person Ballet Renaissance classes (Michigan and Colorado) were suspended in line with COVID restrictions. Online Ballet Renaissance classes, streamed from BR’s home office headquarters in Estes Park to participants across the US, continued through mid 2021. Limited in-person classes resumed in Estes Park in 2021, with full in-person Estes Park programming resuming in the fall of 2022. Ballet Renaissance classes and performances in southeast Michigan have not yet resumed post March 2020 COVID shutdown.
With heartfelt support from the community, Ayana’s Hope, a Ballet Renaissance Agency Fund at NOCO Foundation is open and operational. Ballet Renaissance gifts and Duck Adoptions may be ear-marked for Ayana’s Hope. For more information, to support or participate: balletren@balletren.org.
Join Us For Substitute Discovery Day
Have you ever considered becoming a substitute teacher? Substitute teaching is a rewarding and enriching way to make a difference in students' lives while enjoying flexibility and variety in your workday. Whether you're looking to support your community, explore a career in education, or find meaningful and flexible part-time work, this event is for you!
Join us for Substitute Discovery Day on Monday, March 31, 2025, to learn more about this fulfilling opportunity.
You'll get to:
Enjoy breakfast with administration
Participate in a Q&A session with current substitutes
Take a campus tour
Learn about the licensing process
Come discover how you can become an essential part of our schools and make a lasting impact on students. RSVP today! Email erin_copeland@estesschools.org or call 970-586-2361.
The 1917 Book Club March Meeting
On Tuesday, March 18, 2025 the 1917 Book Club, hosted by the Estes Park Museum, will explore local title, A History of the Southern Estes Valley: With Special Emphasis on Carriage Hills by Robert W. Leavitt. The program will take place from 10 – 11:30 a.m. in the Museum Meeting Room. Please note this month’s meeting with take place on Tuesday, rather than a regular Wednes day. Light snacks will be provided. This program is free and open to the public. It is strongly encouraged that participants read each book prior to the program to take part in the discussion.
The book details the growth of Carriage Hills and nearby subdivisions. Most of Carriage Hills was once owned by the Earl of Dunraven as part of his famous land grab in the Estes Valley. Over several years of research regarding the Southern Estes Valley, Leavitt discovered an early ranch (the second one in the Estes Valley) and identified the owner as a man named James McLaughlin. The land passed through several
owners until it was finally developed as the Carriage Hills subdivision. As Carriage Hills grew to several hundred homes, a fierce battle erupted over the proposed annexation by the Town of Estes Park. Though annexation was ultimately rejected, it involved issues that still resonate today whenever annexation is discussed. Mr. Leavitt will be in attendance to contribute to a lively discussion facilitated by Museum staff.
1917 Book Club titles can be purchased at the Museum Gift Shop, Macdonald Bookshop, and Amazon. Additionally, the title is available at the Estes Valley Library (holds can be placed on circulating copies if all are checked out). For any questions regarding the event, please call or email Curator of Interpretation Mikaela Fundaun at 970-577-3762 or mfundaun@estes.org.
For any questions regarding the event, please call or email Curator of Interpretation Mikaela Fundaun at 970-5773762 or mfundaun@estes.org.
Meet The Buyers For The Trail Ridge Store & CaféRocky Mountain National Park
The Trail Ridge Store & Café, located at the top of Rocky Mountain National Park, is looking for Local Vendors, Artists and Authors!
Xanterra Travel Collection, the concessioner for the Trail Ridge Store & Café, is conducting Meet the Buyer interviews with local artists, authors, and vendors the second week in April. Xanterra is always looking for locally made, unique, and good quality products for the guests who visit Rocky Mountain National Park and the Trail Ridge Store & Café.
Friday, Mar 28 Tuna Steak (grilled) w/ Wild Rice & 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, Mar 17th, you need to call before 1:00 PM on Friday, Mar 14th. 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 Qi Gong Tuesday 10:15-11:15 AM
Bridge Group Every Thursday 12:30 – 4:30 PM with lessons in the morning Canasta, Euchre & Pinochle 1st & 3rd Wednesdays 1:00 – 4:30
Reserved Meals-to-Go delivered to your vehicle or EAT at the Senior Citizens Center Check out our website: estesparkseniors.org or call for the latest information
nirs, tee-shirts, mugs, etc.
Handcrafted pottery, carvings, paintings, gifts, and jewelry
Handcrafted local candies, jams, jellies, and snacks
Xanterra Travel Collection will be scheduling meetings with each artist and the corporate buying team so they can discuss the process and possibility of incorporating these locally made products in the Trail Ridge Store assortment for the upcoming 2025 season.
Please contact Chuck Donato at the email address below. We are requesting product pictures, or a website URL be sent in the initial email.
Xanterra Parks & Resorts
Rocky Mountain National Park
945 Moraine Avenue
Estes Park, Colorado 80517
970-586-2133
Categories we are interested in from Local Vendors and Artisans are: Locally made Rocky Mountain souve-
cdonato@xanterra.com
Rooftop Rodeo Mutton Bustin’ Entries Accepted Starting April 1
The Rooftop Rodeo is pleased to announce that online entry for the 2025 Rooftop Rodeo Mutton Bustin’ will begin on April 1 at 10 a.m. Every night of the rodeo, 10 qualifying cowboys and cowgirls aged 5 – 8 will have a chance to compete in the exciting sport of mutton bustin’. All mutton bustin’ entries must be completed at rooftoprodeo.com. An entry fee of $30 is payable at the time of entry; contestants may only enter for one
night. Mutton busters must purchase a rodeo ticket as well. For all rules and qualifications, please visit rooftoprodeo.com/mutton-bustin.
Kids who don’t get a spot now may visit the Mutton Bustin’ table any night of the rodeo to sign up to be an alternate. If a contestant does not compete, alternates will be contacted to compete. Contestants must be 55 pounds or under on the evening of competition. Jeans, long-sleeved shirts and closed toed shoes are required to compete.
About the Rooftop Rodeo
The Rooftop Rodeo will take place July 5 – 10, 2025. Gates open each night at 5 p.m. The pre-show begins at 6:45 p.m. and the rodeo starts at 7 p.m. For more information about the Rooftop Rodeo or to purchase tickets, visit rooftoprodeo.com. Inquiries about tickets may be made by contacting the Town of Estes Park Events Office at 970-577-3900 or events@estes.org. The Rooftop Rodeo is a Town of Estes Park signature event.
Stanley Home To Host International Best Selling Author Aimie Runyon
The Stanley Home Museum and Education Center is hosting international best selling author, Aimie Runyan on April 12 at the Stanley Home Museum
Year. Both of her 2024 titles have been long listed for the Reading the West Award in Fiction. Aimie is active as an educator and speaker in the writing
and Education Center from 6:30-8:30 p.m. Aimie will provide a reading and writing process seminar.
Aimie K. Runyan writes to celebrate history’s unsung heroines and the spirit of strong women of any era. She has been honored as a Historical Novel Society Editors’ Choice selection, as a five-time finalist for the Colorado Book Awards, and as a nominee for the Rocky Mountain Fiction Writer of the
community and beyond, and is an adjunct professor for the Drexel University MFA in Creative Writing Program. She is a proud member of the Tall Poppy Writers. She lives in Colorado with her amazing husband, two (usually) adorable children, two (always) adorable kitties, and a dragon.
For more information contact, Lisa O’Sullivan Carroll, director@stanleyhome.org.
Sierra, Brandi And Tate Need New, Loving, Forever Families
Sierra is a gorgeous Husky, about two years old. She loves people, is an awesome dog, funny, crate trained and playful.
Brandi is a two year old healer mix. She is fun and high energy. She loves everyone and is crate trained.
Tate is a very sweet, two year old, male heeler. He is dog friendly and potty trained and would love to have a family to call his own. Tate just received transport to freedom from a really bad situation and was lucky he ended up here in Estes Park. 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.
For more information about the Pet Association, please visit petassociationestespark.com.
The Kentucky Avenue Boys
By: Larry Strong
Long before I had any understanding of what a “clan” was, I was part of one. Within a city block bordered by Kentucky, Crescent, Forest and Delaware Avenues, 18 young boys—spread by no more than four years in age—created a sense of belonging and solidarity that left an indelible mark on my life. It was Phil Meyers who deemed us the “Kentucky Avenue Boys.” Phil was arguably the alpha boy on our block. I can’t remember if he was the oldest but he was the toughest. Whatever Phil said was the way it was. He was rarely challenged because we all knew our place in the pecking order of our little clan. Like me, he and his brother Danny lived on Kentucky Avenue.
Looking back, I’m sure Phil was biased but he told us that “Kentucky Avenue Boys” sounded the “coolest.”
The name stuck and became respected and somewhat feared by neighboring blocks of boys. As luck would have it, we had them strongly outnumbered. That was when I first learned about strength in numbers.
our center and goalie. Phil Meyers allocated all nick names and Steve and Dave quickly became “Porky and Specs,” names they wore with honor. Porky and Specs were inseparable. If we ever saw Specs walking up the alley by himself we knew Porky was trailing behind. Sure enough, Porky would finally appear slow and steady lumbering like a sloth and wearing an ever present bead of sweat on his cheeks.
Of these eighteen boys, only two of us were not blood brothers. Stephen Johnson and I were the only two boys without a brother. He lived across the alley and became my best buddy. Truth is, everything he and I learned about being a brother came from the sixteen real brothers we were surrounded by.
Among the sixteen, there were two boys that demonstrated more than any the real meaning of brotherhood. Their names were David and Steve Wallace. David was tall, lanky and lean. He was so skinny he could almost hide behind a broom stick. In spite of his thick horned rim glasses he could climb almost anything and was lightning fast. Steve was just the opposite. He was built like a tank--short, wide, slow and unmovable. Whenever we needed a hole plugged playing hockey in the alley or tackle football Steve was
One summer Specs got sick. I thought my mom told me it was “Romantic Fever,” which confused me until she correctly explained it as Rheumatic Fever. I still didn’t know what it was other than not good. For over two months that summer Specs never left his house to play. And neither did Porky. When Specs finally reappeared, skinnier than ever, Porky reemerged having gained all the weight Specs lost. We were overjoyed to see them again. We never questioned Porky about his absence from the Kentucky Avenue Boys that summer. I guess we figured it was none of our business and Porky’s reason was good enough. What I do remember is that Porky and Specs were tighter than ever after that. From that time on nobody dared pick a fight with either of them. Even Phil Meyers knew better.
Men on Fire is a brotherhood of men as diverse and “motley” as the Kentucky Avenue Boys. Within our drastic differences we find ourselves united with a sense of belonging and solidarity to become, little by little, the men God designed us to be. Like the boys of Kentucky Avenue, we find strength in numbers and encouragement knowing we’re not in the fight alone. We’re meeting Saturday morning, 8:00 a.m. at the Community Center, 660 Community Drive. No matter where you find yourself in your life and faith journey you’ll be welcomed, affirmed and accepted. Just like I was so many years ago by the Kentucky Avenue Boys. Join us Saturday.
Restless Spirit Band To Perform Irish Music In Honor Of St. Patrick’s Day
Restless Spirit Band will perform this weekend for a St. Patrick’s Day celebration. Join us Sunday March 16 at Ravens Roast from 11a.m.-1 p.m. and Monday March 17 at Embers Restaurant 5-7 p.m. Please come and enjoy some Irish music at two special places.
Motivated Buyers! Welcome Home! This upgraded & highly desirable condo awaits your arrival! This condo has only been gently used for the past 17 years as a family vacation getaway, but would be perfect for full time living or an investment for a long term rental. This is a must see!
Inflation-Fighting Strategies For Retirees
At different times, inflation may be high or low, but, except in those rare periods of deflation, it’s always with us. During your working years, when you may receive boosts in your salary, you at least have the potential to keep up with inflation — but what happens when you retire? As a retiree, what can you do to cope with the rising cost of living?
Here are a few suggestions: • Keep some growth potential in your investment portfolio. During your retirement years, you may want to move your portfolio toward a somewhat more conservative approach by owning investments that offer significant protection of principal. However, these same investments offer little in the way of growth, which means they are susceptible to inflation. Consequently, you’ll also need to own a reasonable amount in growth-oriented investments, such as stocks and stock-based securities. Of course, these investments will fluctuate in value as the financial markets move up and down, but by owning some more conservative investments, you can reduce the overall impact of market volatility on your portfolio.
• Consider inflation-adjusted bonds. You might want to consider Treasury Inflation-Protected Securities (TIPS), which are indexed to the Consumer Price Index, so the principal increases with inflation (and decreases with deflation). Another inflation-adjusted Treasury security is the I bond, which differs from TIPS in that the principal doesn’t change but the interest rate does, every six months, based on a combination of a fixed interest rate and the inflation rate. Like all investments, though, TIPS and I bonds have various features and risks of which you should be aware before investing.
• Delay taking Social Security. You can start collecting Social Security benefits at 62, but your monthly checks will be much bigger if you wait until your full retirement age, likely between 66 and 67. You would receive the maximum amount if you waited until 70 before collecting. Of course, if you need the money to help support your retirement, you may not be able to afford to wait, but if you can, your bigger checks can be a big help against inflation.
• Don’t hold too much cash. During your working years, it’s a good idea to have an emergency fund containing several months’ worth of living expenses in liquid, low-risk accounts. And when you’re retired, you might want to have up to year’s worth of expenses in such a fund. But be careful about holding too much cash, as it will lose purchasing power each year due to inflation. Instead, when keeping cash, seek the “Goldilocks” solution — not too little, not too much, but just the right amount.
• Think about extending your employment. If you like what you do, you might want to consider working a few years longer than you had originally intended. Not only will you be bringing in more income, but you could also continue to contribute to retirement accounts, including your IRA and 401(k). Even if you don’t want to continue working full time, you could do some part-time work or consulting. Any earned income you bring in can help in your fight against inflation. You can’t control the cost of living, but by making some of the moves described above, you can help yourself mount a defense against the effects of inflation during your retirement years. This article was written by Edward Jones for use by our local Edward Jones Financial Advisors.
Still Time To Donate To Elevate Partners Fundraising Dinner 2025!
Did you miss the Elevate Partners Fundraising Dinner on March 6, 2025, at Mama Rose's? It was a busy night in our Estes Valley Community with some snow and several other community activities schedule on the same day. You have been supporters and friends of Partners for so long, we don't want to lose contact with you.
All donations directly support the Estes Park Partners office and are tax deductible. Donations also qualify for the CO Child Care Contributions Tax Credit, which provides a tax credit of 50% of your donation.
You can donate at www.poweredbypartnters.org/donate. Choose either a
one-time donation or reoccurring monthly donation. From the dropdown box asking you to choose type of donation, choose Event Donation. In the Notes section enter "Elevate Partners 2025." Please fill in all your contact information. If you prefer to write a check, please sent it to Partners, 600 S. Saint Vrain Ave, Unit 2, Estes Park, CO 80517. Please write "Elevate Partners 2025" in the memo line on the check. Also please include your current mailing address, email address, and phone number.
Thank you for your support of Partners and the youth, families, and volunteers we serve!
Get Ready To Thrive EVICS Tuition Assistance Program Is Open For Enrollment
Making Childcare More Affordable for Estes Park Families
As summer approaches, your childcare needs may be increasing—and we’re here to help! At EVICS Family Resource Center, we understand how challenging it can be to balance work, finances, and the well-being of your child. No family should have to choose between financial stability and quality early education for their child. That’s why our Tuition Assistance Program is here— to bridge the gap and help families access high-quality childcare in Estes Park.
We believe that when families thrive, our entire community thrives. That’s why EVICS works to ensure that every child, regardless of financial barriers, has a stable and enriching early learning experience.
How Does Tuition Assistance Work?
EVICS tuition support helps families afford childcare while they apply for long-term solutions such as the Colorado Child Care Assistance Program (CCAP). If a child doesn’t qualify for CCAP or other programs, EVICS may still be able to provide tuition support based on availability and need.
Verify Childcare Enrollment:
Confirm your child’s enrollment with a licensed or license-exempt childcare provider contracted with EVICS in Estes Park. You can find the childcare
tance agreement.
Redetermination & Updated Income Verification:
Families will need to complete redetermination and provide updated income
Four full days of care: $175 minimum
Three full days of care: $125 minimum
One or two full days of care: $100 minimum
directory on our website
Submit Required Documents:
Provide 30 days of income verification (such as pay stubs or a letter from your employer).
Here’s How to Apply:
Complete the Tuition Assistance Application:
Fill out the application completely, including all required income verification documents for every adult in your household over the age of 18. You can find the application online at www.evics.org.
Review & Approval:
Our Childcare Resource Specialist will review your application and determine eligibility.
Agreement Signing & Funding Release:
Before funds are distributed, families must review and sign the tuition assis-
verification every three to six months to maintain eligibility.
Eligibility Requirements to Note: Your child must have a confirmed childcare spot at an Estes Park childcare provider.
At least one parent must work full-time (30 hours per week) in Estes Park. Part-time care assistance is available and will be based on the hours reflected in the guardian's submitted pay stubs.
Minimum Copayment Amounts: Five full days of care: $200 minimum
Real Stories, Real Impact
The impact of tuition assistance is more than financial— it’s about families finding stability, parents keeping their jobs, and children receiving quality early education.
“I am a single mother of a 2year-old son, and the assistance that EVICS provided me has been crucial for us. Not only have they supported me with childcare, but they have also helped us in many other areas of our lives. Thanks to them, I have been able to access resources that have improved our living conditions.”
— Single Parent, Estes Park "EVICS made it possible for our child to remain in a safe, high-quality childcare program while we worked. Without their support, keeping our jobs would have been impossible."
— Grateful Parents, Estes Park
If you have any questions or need more information, feel free to contact us at the EVICS Family Resource Center at (970) 586-3055 or email Gloria gloria@evics.org. You can also visit us in person at 1182 Graves Avenue, Unit A. Our hours are Monday – Friday, 9:00 a.m. – 4:00 p.m. To see the childcare directory for Estes Park or to apply for tuition assistance, please visit our website evics.org
Local Photographer Katie Hladky Captures Estes Park In New Photography Exhibit & Website Launch
Local photographer, Katie Hladky, is excited to announce the upcoming exhibit and website launch featuring her latest works. Arcesso Lux Photography showcases the unique beauty and tiny worlds seen with a micro lens. The exhibit will be hosted by Bear & Bee, Makers’ Studio & Boutique on April 4th from 5-7 p.m .
Katie Hladky’s works invite in the light and capture the sunlight as it dances in a mountain stream. This new collection features a series titled “Water & Ice” that reveals nature in a unique and unexpected way.
“I’ve always been inspired by the overall beauty of nature around us - particularly the way light moves through water in a
mountain stream” Katie shares. “Arcesso Lux means ‘invite light’ and I’m excited to share these images with you.”
Katie’s new website, www.ArcessoLux.com launches Friday, March 14th. She invites the public to join her for an evening of live music, art, and refreshments Friday, April 4th
Exhibit Details:
Date: Friday, April 4th Time: 5-7 p.m.
Location: Bear & Bee | Makers’ Studio & Boutique, 541 Big Thompson Ave., Suite 201, Stanley Village Shopping Center. For additional information about this upcoming event visit www.BearAndBeeInspired.com.
Photos by Katie Hladky
Please join us for a blood drive at Estes Park High School on Sunday, March 30 from 12:00 p.m. to 4:00 p.m.
A Clean Sweep: Trail Ridge Quilters Help Keep Estes Park Health Sparkling
If you’ve ever stepped into Estes Park Health and thought, “Wow, this place is spotless!”, you have the Environmental Services team to thank. Their dedication to cleanliness ensures that every patient, visitor, and staff member walks into an environment that is not just welcoming, but also safe and sanitary. And thanks to the generosity of the Trail Ridge Quilters, they now have some brand-new tools to help them keep up their excellent work!
The Trail Ridge Quilters, long-time
To celebrate their hard work and dedication, the Environmental Services team recently enjoyed a well-deserved lunch, marking an impressive milestone of 471 injury-free workdays. That’s nearly a year and a half of diligent, careful work, proving that they’re not only committed to cleanliness but also to workplace safety.
Pictured alongside the Environmental Services crew are EPH Senior Director Jacob Schmitz, Sheridan Silla (Director of Environmental Services), and Erva
partners of Estes Park Health Foundation, recently stitched together another generous donation, granting nearly $10,000 to Estes Park Health. A portion of this grant was specifically dedicated to Environmental Services for the purchase of a Tornado Wet/Dry Vac and a Windsor Sensor XP12 Commercial Vacuum: powerful additions to their cleaning arsenal.
If you’ve ever tackled a household
Services). Together, they celebrated both the team’s outstanding safety record and the generosity of the Trail Ridge Quilters.
spill and thought your vacuum was up to the challenge, imagine the level of cleaning power needed for an entire hospital! These new machines will make the Environmental Services team’s job even more efficient, ensuring floors shine, carpets stay pristine, and the entire hospital remains a model of cleanliness.
Environmental Services plays a crucial role in the hospital’s daily operations, and their impact goes far beyond aesthetics. A clean hospital is a healthier hospital, reducing the risk of infections and creating a comfortable space for patients to heal. The team works tirelessly behind the scenes, often going unnoticed.
The Trail Ridge Quilters, who hold two sales each year: one in the summer at Mountain View Bible Fellowship and another in the fall at Estes Park Health. The Quilters are known for their beautifully crafted quilts, runners, and other handmade items. Their dedication to supporting the hospital through Estes Park Health Foundation has made a significant impact over the years, helping fund numerous projects and essential equipment. So next time you walk into Estes Park Health and admire its spotless floors and fresh, clean air, take a moment to appreciate both the hardworking Environmental Services team and the incredible generosity of the Trail Ridge Quilters. It’s partnerships like these that help keep Estes Park Health one of the cleanest hospitals around!
Thank you, Trail Ridge Quilters, and thank you, Environmental Services!
The Estes Park Health Foundation increases community awareness of Estes Park Health, and develops, manages, and distributes funds to assist EPH in fulfilling its mission. To learn more about their initiatives, volunteer or give, please contact them at GiveToEPH.org or 970-577-4370.
Trotter (Vice President of HHS Environmental
Beats, Bandages, And The Djembe: A Doctor’s Rhythm-Filled Journey
Leading up to National Physicians Week, March 25 – 31, the Estes Park Health Foundation is highlighting the incredible doctors at Estes Park Health, not just for their dedication to medicine but for their unique passions outside of work. This series showcases the hobbies that keep our physicians balanced, inspired, and engaged beyond the hospital walls.
This week’s feature is John Meyer, MD, Emergency Medicine.
Medicine is still my passion, but drumming has always been my hobby. Having hobbies that you love and enjoy is one of many keys to happiness. My journey with drumming started in the early ’90s with air drumming. Green Day had just released Dookie, and my new favorite drummer was Tre Cool. Inspired by his fast rhythms and drum fills, I began mimicking his style. What I didn’t realize at the time was that my imitation of Tre was actually a mirror image, leading me to play left-handed. Before long, my parents’ pots and pans became my makeshift drum set. After a few days of relentless banging, my parents ventured into the basement to assess the destruction. That’s when they decided it was time to buy me a real drum set.
I taught myself to play, left-handed and all, throughout high school. My twin cousin, Sam, and I formed a band called Karitoro, playing hard rock and
heavy grunge at clubs around Milwaukee in the late ’90s. As my music tastes evolved, I gravitated toward jam bands like the Allman Brothers and Grateful Dead. That’s when I discovered percussion instruments, and my world changed.
One summer, while working as a counselor at YMCA Camp Minikani, I met Lucky, a foreign exchange counselor from Senegal. Lucky introduced me to the Djembe, an African war drum with a powerful and distinct voice. I was immediately hooked. Lucky let me play whenever I wanted, and soon, my love for hand drumming was born.
When I started college at Colorado State University, my drum set wasn’t exactly dorm-friendly. But I needed something to play, something compact that I could wail on. Enter: the Djembe. To the dismay (or delight) of my Corbett Hall G4 wing neighbors, I bought my first Djembe, the same one I still own today. If you ever ask me what I’d save from a burning building (besides my children), that drum is at the top of the list.
Playing the Djembe opened an entirely new world for me. Every culture has its own percussion instruments: India has the Tablas, the Middle East has the Doumbek, Cuba has the Congas, and Africa has the Djembe. Exploring these different rhythms and
styles became a passion. I started playing open mics and joining bands onstage during my college years, adding an extra layer of rhythm that got the booties shaking.
As I ventured into medicine, I realized something profound: I was destined to be a percussionist, both in music and in life. In a band, a drum set is essential, but a percussionist? The band can play on without you. That principle aligned perfectly with my medical career. With holidays, nights, and weekends spent working or on call, I could never fully commit to a band. But as a percussionist, I could jump in when available, playing with dozens of different lineups over the years. Though I was never an official member of any group, the experience has been just as fulfilling.
Lately, I’ve been exploring a new creative outlet: producing my own music using Pro Tools on my Mac. There are always melodies floating in my mind, and with digital tools, I can bring them to life. Layering tracks, watching
people dance to my creations, and adding live hand drumming over the loops has been an incredible artistic release. This spring and summer, you might just catch me playing at local breweries under my alias, Dr. HiggensMcJay. The next step? Maybe adding live guitars and lyrics. But for now, I’m taking it one beat at a time!
This National Physicians Week (March 25-31), we invite you to celebrate with Dr. John Mayer and the incredible team of physicians at Estes Park Health! Show your appreciation by sending a story about your favorite doctor to giving@eph.org. To donate in honor of your favorite doctor, visit GiveToEPH.org/donate or call 970577-4370.
The Estes Park Health Foundation increases community awareness of Estes Park Health, and develops, manages, and distributes funds to assist EPH in fulfilling its mission. To learn more about their initiatives, volunteer or give, please contact them at GiveToEPH.org or 970-577-4370.
What Is The Quota Loan Closet
Estes Park Quota, as a service to our community, opened the Medical Equipment Loan Closet in 1952 with a walker, a cane and a wheelchair and the volunteers worked out of a member’s home. That first year the Loan Closet served 27 people. The Loan Closet now has over 624 pieces of medical equipment valued at almost $100,000.00, available for loan to all of Estes Valley and our visitors. Since the 1980s, the Quota Loan Closet has been housed on Estes Park Health property. Staffing for Loan Closet is done totally
through the volunteer efforts of 14 Quota members who are available to check out or accept returns of equipment seven days a week.
In 2023, 258 individuals checked out 475 pieces of equipment. Quota is a non-profit organization so the service is free with a refundable deposit and/or donation. The funds donated support the repairs and replacement of our equipment. For information on how to secure medical equipment from the Loan Closet, visit estesparkquota.com or call Linda Polland at 719-337-3318.
Local Robotics Team Wins Design Award At State Competition, Earns Spot At World Championships
On Friday, Feb. 28, a local robotics team, The Bad Batch, celebrated a huge achievement at the VEX IQ Middle School State Competition. With their eyes on the prize, they clinched the coveted Design Award and earned their ticket to the 2025 VEX IQ World Robotics Championships in Dallas. The team, made up of Blake Ingram, Brayden Gooch, and Tavin McGill, has dedicated months of hard work and innovation to perfecting their robot, which impressed judges with its creativity and efficiency. The team's win is a testament to their dedication to the student-centered ethos that VEX Robotics promotes.
Even though the team had a highly successful season, it wasn't without its challenges. They faced a pivotal moment in August when they learned that the school had decided to scale back its support for the competitive robotics program this year, removing the class time that had previously been available to students interested in advanced robotics in favor of a beginner-level program. Frustrated by the lack of commitment, the team made the bold decision to leave the schoolsponsored program behind, knowing that building a highly competitive robot takes a significant amount of work. Determined to continue pursuing their passion, they chose to forge their own path, creating an independent schedule that allowed them to dedicate the necessary time to work and practice. This newfound freedom allowed them to be more flexible, focusing on their individual strengths, fostering a stronger sense of teamwork, and embracing the
challenge of self-management. With renewed determination, the team was driven by their shared goal of success.
Throughout the entire process of creating and preparing a robot for competitions, the team relied heavily on the engineering design process. They kept a detailed engineering notebook that is judged at each competition. They are also evaluated based on their performance in teamwork challenges, driver skills, autonomous coding, and team interviews. This year, the team won several awards based on multiple aspects of their performance: the Teamwork Challenge Award, the Excellence Award, the Innovate Award, and now the Design Award. The Design Award is presented to a team that demonstrates an organized and professional approach to the engineering design process, project and time management, and team organization. The
award recognizes a team's ability to document and explain their engineering design process through the engineering notebook and team interviews. With the Design Award secured, the team is now preparing for the VEX IQ World Championships, which will be held in Dallas, Texas, the second week of May. They will compete against the best robotics teams from around the globe. After their win, the team said, "We’ve worked so hard to get here, and we can’t wait to see what we can accomplish next."
The team's future looks bright, and their success serves as an inspiration to aspiring engineers and innovators in the area. This isn't the first time the team has proven themselves. Two years ago, the three members qualified for Worlds on an elementary team called The Hotdog Chickens. Blake and Brayden qualified again last year at the middle school level on a team called Those Guys. This year, they're excited
to be reunited again for yet another world qualification together as The Bad Batch.
This achievement was made possible thanks to the generosity of local sponsors who supported the team with the necessary funding for parts, entry fees, and travel expenses. Their contributions enabled the students to have access to the tools and resources needed to compete at such a high level. Without the support of businesses in the community, none of this would have been possible. The team is incredibly grateful for the sponsors who believed in them. The team would like to thank these generous sponsors: Simply Christmas, Ingram Drilling, B & E Builders, Claire's Restaurant, The Wheel Bar, Craftsmen in Leather, The Taffy Shop, The Ore Cart, MacGregor Ranch, The Grubsteak, and Third Point of Performance.
If you or your business is interested in supporting The Bad Batch's journey to Worlds, You Need Pie has generously offered to donate a portion of each pie ordered through the team now until March 31 for pickup on April 6 (ask us
about available flavors and delivery). Simply Christmas is also selling 3Dprinted fidget toys made by the team members, so stop by the store and grab one for yourself or as a fun gift.
If you're interested in being a sponsor for this team or other teams in the future, please reach out to Dark Side Robotics to find out how: darksiderobotics.ep@gmail.com
Elevate Partners Fundraising Dinner Thank You!
Partners would like to thank everyone who attended our Elevate Partners Fundraising Dinner on Thursday, March 6, at Mama Rose's Restaurant. It was great to see everyone having a great time! It is you; our supporters and friends who help financially support our youth programs so that we can continue to provide mentoring services in the Estes Valley.
Special thank also to:
1. Rob and Julie Pieper and their wonderful staff for sponsoring this event and for the delicious salads, entrees, deserts, drinks, and service.
2. Mark Igel and his staff at The Taffy Shop for providing the taffy packets as
table favors for all those who attended.
3. Dave Boon and Heather Vesgaard for being our main speakers for the evening.
4. Kathy Granas, Marty Grosjean, Damian, Laura Trump, Dave Trump, Karlie DeBerard, and Heather Vesgaard for helping with set up, during the event, clean up and counting and recording the donations received that night.
The Way Of The Cross Fridays At 4 p.m.
By: Bishop Owen Williams, St. Francis of Assisi Anglican Church
This last week, the first full week of the Church Season of Lent, I have been on “Retreat” with many of the Anglican Clergy of the Mid-west. We gathered in Grand Rapids, Michigan, hosted by St. Paul’s Anglican Church. In years past, I have been on other “Retreats,” but the best ones were silent retreats… no television, no radios (and turn your cell phones off.) For me, personally, the best and most productive have been ones which started with corporate prayer and Holy Communion. Next, breakfast, in silence. Around mid-morning, we would gather for a presentation, usually on some aspect of Christ. It may be about Jesus’ Life, His teachings, or The Gifts of The Spirit. The theme would be set for us to contemplate for the rest of the Retreat. In the afternoon, there would be another meditation or presentation on the theme and then more quiet time. These were the times I most enjoyed. Usually there were places to walk or explore. I recall the times I have been able to sit and listen to the soft wind in the trees overlooking the Hudson River Valley in New York, or watch the sun shimmering on the Pacific Ocean from Mount Calvary Monastery in the mountains above Santa Barbara, my home town. These are times when we can open ourselves to be in that mysterious relationship with Our Lord. We
can do that, but it takes our willingness to put the world aside. It is that relationship we find in Psalm 46, verse 10 ... Be still, and know that I am God. This particular retreat in Grand Rapids was to gather Anglican clergy from around the Midwest who have not met or worked together. There was time for prayer and for study. We broke bread together, both Sacramentally in Holy Communion, and at meal. And we were able to return back to our parishes and missions to better serve our flocks.
Every Friday from 4-5 p.m. during Lent (through Good Friday on April 18th,) you are welcome to join us on a “Mini-Retreat” as we walk the “Way of the Cross.” This is a devotional journey following Christ’s pathway to His Crucifixion, where He took on the sins of the whole world for our redemption.
St. Francis Anglican Church is a Traditional, Apostolic and Evangelistic Christian church nestled in the midst of the pines and aspens in Little Valley. We invite you to join us Sunday mornings at 9:30 a.m. for a Service of Holy Communion (Morning Prayer is offered at 9 a.m.). We are located at 3480 St. Francis Way, Estes Park, CO 80517. Turn from Fish Creek Rd. onto Little Valley Rd. and follow the signs to St. Francis. If you have any questions or comments, please call Bishop Williams at (970) 577-0601. And see our Website at stfrancisestespark.com.
Crossroads Hands-On Effort Supports Neighbors In Need
By: Brian Schaffer
We are fortunate to have so many wonderful people connected to the services that we provide through Crossroads. Most of our programs and services would not function without some form of human interaction, and a hands-on delivery system. From one hand to another, we receive donations of food, funding, and other vital resources to which we put into the hands of those who find themselves in need. When checks are written and sent to us, we deposit them into our account so as to have available funds to hand over to a landlord to keep a neighbor housed, utility company to keep the lights on, automotive shop to help a neighbor maintain reliable transportation, pharmacy to ensure a person’s prescription is paid in full, or a local merchant who partners with us to provide basic necessities for our neighbors in need. In addition to the hands that write the checks, we have hands who prepare the nutritious hot meals that our volunteers hand deliver every day to Estes Valley residents. We have helping hands that pick up daily food donations that are sorted and placed on the shelves by a handful of volunteers. Some of the stronger hands travel to the Food Bank in Loveland twice a week to hand select food items that are loaded in the truck, and unloaded at our place. Many hands are needed to get everything stocked in The Market at Crossroads for the 120+ individuals
From Galilee To The Cross: A Journey Of Love, Truth, And Sacrifice
In the final month before His crucifixion, Jesus made His way from Galilee to Jerusalem, fully aware of what awaited Him. Yet, rather than retreat, He pressed forward with urgency— teaching, healing, and preparing His followers for what was to come. His journey was not just a path to the Cross; it was a divine mission to bring salvation to the world.
At Cornerstone Church of Estes Valley, we invite you to walk this road with us in our upcoming sermon series, "From Galilee to the Cross." Over six messages, we will explore the pivotal moments of Jesus' final journey—the powerful lessons He taught, the miracles He performed, and the unwavering love He displayed.
p.m. to reflect on the ultimate sacrifice Christ made for us.
Our services take place each Sunday at 10:30 a.m. at Cornerstone Church of Estes Valley, 2200 Mall Rd, Estes Park,
For more information, visit www.ccestes.com
From Galilee to the Cross Series Schedule:
The series begins on Sunday, March 23rd, and concludes with a special Easter Sunday celebration on April 20th. Along the way, we will gather for a Good Friday service on April 18th at 6
CO. This series will be led by three pastors, working together to bring fresh insight into Jesus’ final days. Whether you are seeking deeper faith, fresh perspective, or a renewed connection to Christ, we invite you to journey with us.
Come and experience the road from Galilee to the Cross—and discover what it means for your life today.
who shop for their groceries each week. It’s amazing to think of how many loving, kind, and compassionate people are involved in feeding those who are hungry in our little town. Each person doing their part to make sure our neighbors are loved and well cared for. I am grateful to live in a community where people are putting their hands to work, doing the most good in the neighborhood.
Here's a nice note we received from a couple we’ve been helping for a few years. You might wonder why we’ve been helping them for so long. I would have to say, it’s because we love helping neighbors, and especially these neighbors who are going through a very difficult season with a chronic illness. It’s not something you ever want to go through alone. I’m glad we’ve been invited into their journey.
“Dear Crossroads Ministry Staff and Community Support, Thank you very much for what you do. Day after day you support our community with great care, vision and compassion.
I can’t imagine you not being here. It wouldn’t be a positive picture if I tried to picture it.
Thank you for your godly impact. Thank you for your practical help and service.
Finally, I wanted to put it in writing— know that you are extremely appreciated and loved.”
March 23 - Setting His Face Toward Jerusalem (Luke 9:51-62)
March 30 - Teaching Along the Way (Luke 13:22-35)
April 6 - Passing Through Jericho (Luke 18:35–19:10)
April 13 - Palm Sunday: The Triumphal Entry (Luke 19:28-44)
April 18 - Good Friday: The Road to the Cross (Luke 23:26-49) 6:00 PM Service
April 20 - Easter Sunday: The Road to Emmaus (Luke 24:13-35)
Service Time: Sundays at 10:30 a.m.
Location: Cornerstone Church of Estes Valley - 2200 Mall Rd., Estes Park, CO
Good Friday Service: April 18 at 6:00 p.m.
The State Of Transportation
By: Judi Smith
I am discovering that environmental protection (ecologically) has, day by day, become more of a concern, to our leaders and to our citizens. This winter (in Colorado) has been drier – and warmer – than usual -- even the new usual. After recent fires, building insurance has doubled, or, as often as not, been cancelled. Larimer County’s air pollution exceeds EPA limits and Colorado is concerned, meaning new regulations may be looming in the near future.
One major contribution to air pollution – and, indirectly, to temperature, dehydration, and fire – comes from all the vehicles that grace our hi-ways. We proved that during the COVID pandemic: When people were sequestered at home, cars were not on the road, pollution cleared, and temperatures dropped. When people returned to their offices, schools, and other activity – pollution again limited visibility and temperatures soared. Sidewalks were hot enough to cause burns. So alternative transportation can assist in a reclamation of the Earth.
Of course, thanks to the IRA (Inflation Reduction Act), there were national funds available for climate action, offered in grants and in tax credits. In the last two years, Colorado has done an excellent job of offering grants, not only for energy in buildings, but also for electric vehicles including not only cars and trucks, but also electric bicycles. There were also grants to municipalities for transit services. Estes Park purchased two electric trollies that now grace our summer offerings, allowing all day parking in the parking structure while exploring the shops and locating the pica.
Recently, California determined that 40% of ghg pollution arises from gas powered vehicles on the road. In an effort to curb that level of destruction, the State stipulated that sales of new
model motor vehicles must include of zero emission options, meeting a certain percentage, ranging from 35% in 2026 to 100% in 2035. These quotas can be met by selling more electric vehicles (by battery or by hydrogen cell) or by selling less gasoline-powered vehicles, and older models (prior to 2026) are exempt. The indirect benefit to humanity is the influence this requirement has on pricing. In an effort to move the ecological vehicles, some very good deals may appear.
Colorado has followed suit with a similar law, however it never reaches 100%. Beginning in 2027, 35% of cars (model 2023 and later) sold, including light and medium duty trucks, must be ZeroEmissions Vehicles (ZEV). This maxes out at 85% in 2032. Therefore, under the resulting regulation (CCR 1001-24), it is possible to buy a 2027 model gaspowered vehicle (GPV) car in Colorado – although the transaction may be delayed until enough ZEVs have been delivered.
But perhaps the most innovative law passed recently is Colorado’s HB 241313 that funds new affordable housing within the newly defined Transit Oriented Communities (TOC). A TOC encourages housing near transit facilities to avoid individual daily commutes, thereby lowering the production of greenhouse gases. The TOC must meet certain requirements such as population, affordability, and housing density levels, and must dedicate 75 acres to transit activities. A TOC can qualify for State grants that support infrastructure to meet community goals. It is an interesting way to create affordable housing close to transit services. Combine that with the advent of the EcoPass, provided to employees by some Colorado businesses, which allows travel to communities serviced by RTD. This assists in providing both economic and ecological sustainability.
Spring is in the air and Easter is right around the corner. With that, many of the faith like to prepare for Easter. Meaning more than just buying Easter candy and decorating with little fluffy chicks and bunnies. Are you looking to add something to your spiritual preparation for Easter? I want to invite you to Cornerstone Church, just off Mall Rd. We are offering David Jeremiah’s “The Jesus You May Not Know.” This 10-week study will meet every Wednesday night at 5:30 p.m. We start with a meal and the study begins at 6 p.m. During the weeks leading up to
This study will answer questions such as, “Is Jesus from History or Eternity?” What about the Old Testament? Is Jesus just a New Testament figure? Is Jesus a
teacher of truth or the truth to be preached? Is He really the King of the Jews? Is He really living or did He die?
And so many more!
Easter, many like to spiritually prepare themselves for the Easter celebration. In many Christian circles this is called the season of Lent, a celebration echoing the 40 days of Jesus fasting in the wilderness before the start of His ministry. Those who participate are encouraged to pray, fast, and freely give to others.
Though Lent is not observed by the SBC and was not part of my upbringing, I understand its potential spiritual benefits in preparing to celebrate Jesus's sacrifice for humanity's sins. That leads me to answer a question you might be asking: “Why is this a good study in preparation for Easter?” For many reasons, really. Namely that there are untrue assumptions about Jesus by many in the world and this study addresses specific question about Jesus and how the answers relate to us.
In a day when all some people know about Easter is the Easter Bunny, baby chicks, jellybeans, and chocolate rabbits, it is always fitting for us to issue a reminder of the reason we celebrate Easter. Sure, bunnies, chicks, eggs and tulips speak of new life regenerating as earth’s northern hemisphere once again rotates closer to the sun, but there is a deeper, more amazing truth we find in the alignment of the celebration of Jesus’ crucifixion, burial and resurrection. Jesus is the source of new life for all who believe. He makes all things new and all who are in Him have become new creations. So, you see, accepting Jesus as the centerpiece of Easter is the true way to go.
So, again, if you want to add some further depth to your spiritual prepara-
tions for Easter, I would greatly encourage you to join us any Wednesday at 5:30pm at Cornerstone Church of Estes Valley, 2200 Mall Rd. Estes park, CO. I guarantee you will both be a blessing and be blessed. Here’s to hoping I see you there. Pastor Charlie, Associate Pastor. And don’t forget to check out our pastor’s Easter series, “From Galilee to the Cross,” starting soon!
Linda Hardgrove
Linda LaVern (Spreier) Hardgrove, who lived a life of faith through her words, actions, and art, died peacefully at her Windsor, CO home on March 7, 2025, after a brief illness. She was 80 years old.
Born in Atlantic City, NJ, to LaVern and Lucille Spreier, she and her family returned to western Kansas after WWII, first to Hays and then Jetmore, where her father worked as the county’s first soil conservationist.
A 1962 graduate of Jetmore High School, Linda attended Fort Hays State College, where she was a member of Phi Kappa Phi Honor Society and graduated in 1966. While in college, she met her future husband, Dean Hardgrove, whom she married in 1964. After college, the family, which soon included two daughters, Dawn and Heather, followed Dean’s long career as a telecommunications executive, first in Dodge City, KS; then Lincoln, NE; Las Vegas, NV; back to Lincoln and finally to Overland Park, KS. They retired to Estes Park, CO, where they lived for 15 years, before moving to The Villages in Florida. After three years they moved to Windsor, CO.
Although quiet and self-effacing, Linda was of strong faith and leaned into that faith throughout her lifetime. From her first role as her church’s Christian education coordinator, she went on to serve in various volunteer roles, including speaking to women’s Bible study groups throughout the
Gathering To Remember
Shirley June Arnold
Shirley June Arnold, 78, of Estes Park, CO passed away on November 17, 2024.
There will be a friends and family gathering held on Friday, March 21, 2025 at Allnutt Funeral Service in Estes Park, CO. The event is a come and go style from 3-6 p.m. Please visit allnuttestespark.com to leave messages to the family.
Midwest. She was also active in the Estes Park Community Bible Study until her death.
Linda also expressed her faith through her art as a painter. Her many exquisite landscapes – most of which she was too unassuming to sell – capture, through color and style, the beauty and grandeur of creation.
In addition to her husband Dean, Linda is survived by their daughter Heather, of Windsor; three grandsons, Matthew Thornton (Christy) and three great grandchildren of Humboldt, KS; and Jacob Thornton and Walker Thornton of Chanute, KS; her brother Scott Spreier (Jeanne) of Dallas, a niece and two nephews; and her brother-inlaw, Dale Hardgrove (Linda K.) of The Villages, FL.
She was preceded in death by her parents and daughter, Dawn.
The service will be held at Allenspark Community Church on March 22, 2025, at 2:00 p.m., Pastor Matthew Graham officiating. Internment will be at a later date in Jetmore, Kansas. The family requests that those attending the service wear bright colors in recognition of Linda’s love of art, design and color.
In lieu of flowers, the family asks that donations be made to Estes Park Community Bible Study, Checks can be mailed to CBS c/o Mountain View Bible Fellowship, 1575 S St Vrain, Estes Park, CO 80517.
Sunrise Rotary Invites Charitable Organizations To Apply For Funding
The Estes Valley Sunrise Ro tary (EVSR) invites propo sals from charitable organ izations, in the Estes Valley, for grants to support programs and projects that benefit the Estes Valley community. This year (2025) we will be focusing on the youth of Estes Valley. To apply for funding, go to portal.club runner.ca/5242 and locate the 2025 Community Grants application.
Please print and fill out the application and then email the completed application, and all required backup documents, to estessunriserotary@gmail.com no later than March 31, 2025. You will be notified in May if you are a grant recipient. For more information please estessunriserotary@gmail.com.
Guest Services Rep Reservationist/Special Projects/ Computer Skills/Answering Phones/Emails/Texts. Customer Service/Telephone Skills/Problem Solving Skills Written/Oral Communications Skills Required - Full Time Year Round Weekends, Holidays, On Call Required. $20-$21/hr DOE
Apply on line with resume https://jobs.gusto.com/postings/ macman-llc-guest-services-repc64969b2-123c-4abe-b22f2b2bfa93aa11
The Stanley Home Museum and Education Center is hiring a part-time museum assistant.
Come join our team. Please send resume and letter of interest to director@stanleyhome.org.
Pro g rams Coor d I n ator
Responsible for managing and coordinating the Association's Exchange Visitor (EV) program in-country experience. Exchange Visitor (J) visas are nonimmigrant visas for individuals approved to participate in exchange visitor programs in the United States. The YMCA of the Rockies hosts the following under the Exchange Visitor Program: Work and Travel, Camp Counselor Intern, and Trainee programs. This position pays $20.52 - $23.02/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.
FamI l Y Pro g rams d IreCtor
The Family Programs Director develops, coordinates and administers programs directed towards families of all ages, including but not limited to, Family Programs, recreation activities and specialty weekends. This position pays $20.97$24.90/hour with benefits and employee perks including medical benefits, participation in the YMCA retirement fund, generous PTO/vacation, discounted childcare, ski passes, and free or discounted gear rentals.
a d ve n t u re aCtivitieS d ireCtor
The Adventure Activities Director is responsible for the Aerial Challenge Course, Climbing Wall Facilitation, the Gear Shop, and the Mountain Center Desk at the YMCA of the Rockies, Estes Park Center. This position hires, trains, and supervises staff in all aspects of Adventure Activities, while also facilitating and developing programs to benefit guests.
$21.00 - $25.00/hour with full benefits, generous PTO/vacation, YMCA membership, and many more employee perks. To learn more and apply, please visit
j o bs.ymc aro ck ie s. or g
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
Gemfire Jewelry + Crystals is looking for Retail Manager
Bedroom, 1 bath house for rent in the Olympus Heights area. Recently remodel from top to bottom, Must see to appreciate. $2000 per month, utilities not included, No pets... Call (303) 720-1211
Condos
One bedroom loft condo, 1.5 baths, wood fireplace, washer /dryer.
$1,750/month, sorry no pets, no smoking. Available now. Call 970-699-6727
Apartments
Small Studio in Downtown Estes
Available April 1. 1-Year Lease. $900/mo; NS/NP. Credit and Ref Req. 970-480-5458.
Apartments
1XL bed/bath w/bonus rm year rd avail now-May 1. Med-Lg Dog ? OK. Furn. PWS. $1750 all inclusive. $150 addtl for cple First floor of Home. Only laundry is shared. Very private & quiet. Easy road access:15 to EP, 30 to Longmt & Boulder. Owner above. Text 303.594.5451
Cabins
LONG TERM, YEARROUND RENTAL IN GLEN HAVEN AVAILABLE NOW. Cabin on ½ Ac.; 750 sq. ft.; 1 bedroom, 1 full bath. Located ½ mi. behind General Store. Has washer/dryer, and dishwasher. Rent includes all utilities except electricity. Trailblazer highspeed internet and trash are included. Property is non-smoking of any kind. One small pet is allowed with prior approval and pet deposit. Two-person maximum. Rent: $1,750/month fully furnished; $1,650/month unfurnished. $1000 security/cleaning deposit. REFERENCES ARE REQUIRED. Direct inquiries: email hoberthaven@aol.com or 970-744-8014.
Small and comfortable 1 bedroom apartment with gorgeous views of the mountains. This is a must see to appreciate. is located near town, $1,600 per month, and some utilities included. Call (303) 720-1211
Excellent for 1 person, small 1 bedroom duplex apartment located downstairs. No far from downtown, Some utilities included, must see, $600.00 per month... Call (303) 720-1211
Commercial Rentals
Commercial Rentals
Class A Office 2014 Construction, Full Service, Furnished office in Downtown location, Near Town Hall. $800 per month. All internet options including Fiber available. Includes Conference Room, Handicap Restrooms, Copy and Scanning Facility, Coffee Room. Call Thom at Verus Commercial, Inc. 970-586-2448
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
Home Repair/Service
Brad Jensen Plumbing/Heating Services
New construction Call or text to schedule! (970)573-0174 Email- bradplumbing.ko @gmail.com
Sewing/Alterations
Remixed Custom Sewing Services. Small Furniture, Restoration, Cushions and Industrial Repair. Call for appointment 970-492-5446
Piano Tuning
Conference
Prime Retail Space in Central Downtown Estes Park. 350 SqFt in busy location. $1,200/mo +++. (425) 818 - 4158 Office Space for Rent 1377
3
Offices, High Traffic Area with Great Exposure, Open Lobby Area, Printer Room. 351 Moraine Ave. Suite B 970-227-4865 nathan@kinleybuilt.com
Susan Novy, local piano tuner. Call for appt. 577-1755 www.estesparkpiano tuner.com
